The couple, Kelly and Michael, approached us with the aim of brightening the space and incorporating modern appliances to bring it up to date. Their previous kitchen was dark, featuring black high-gloss cabinetry, and was beginning to feel tired. As the kitchen forms part of an open-plan layout, they were also keen to achieve a more cohesive and harmonious feel throughout.
In addition, within the practical utility area they required ample storage, along with raised appliances to enhance accessibility and make everyday use more convenient.
The client was very open to suggestions and took significant inspiration from a particular Laings display. As a result, our Senior Kitchen and Bedroom Designer, Fiona Thompson, adopted a similar colour scheme and layout, making a few subtle adjustments to ensure it worked perfectly within their home.
The initial consultation took place with Kelly, and Michael’s daughter, Louise. When Michael visited the showroom a few weeks later to see the designs, he saw the samples they had chosen and was a little unsure about the green accent colour. However, once he saw the 3D visuals of the space, he was able to fully appreciate how the colours complemented one another - which ultimately won him over.
As the couple had been recommended to work with Laings by a friend, they were very trusting throughout the design process. While Kelly and Michael had the final say, Louise was also closely involved in selecting colours and materials, as well as ensuring the layout functioned well for the whole family.
The original showroom design that they liked included a dining table; however, this arrangement did not suit the proportions of their space. We therefore suggested adding a breakfast bar instead. This option works far better within the space constraints, providing a more practical seating solution while also creating a more sociable area within the room.
Introducing a breakfast bar also helped to open up the living and kitchen areas, helping to achieve the bright and airy design that they were looking for.
There are several key details that bring the project together as well as elevate the overall result.
Full-height cabinetry was carefully stacked almost to the ceiling. This not only maximises storage but also enhances the sense of scale - showcasing the ceiling height.
Within the utility room, the washing machine and tumble dryer were raised to improve accessibility and everyday convenience. This demonstrates how even a compact space can be optimised with thoughtful, practical solutions.
Finally, large, hard-wearing floor tiles were installed throughout. Running the same flooring across the space helps to unify the overall scheme, strengthening the cohesive feel of the open-plan layout while ensuring durability for many years to come.
The finished design not only met the brief but exceeded Kelly and Michael’s expectations, delivering a bright, modern and highly functional space that the whole family can enjoy.
“It was a pleasure to work with such a lovely family who provided a largely open brief and had no significant constraints. This made the process smooth and straightforward, and they were all delighted following the first design presentation.”
- Fiona Thompson, Senior Kitchen and Bedroom Designer
Thinking about transforming your kitchen? Our experienced team will take your vision and craft a bespoke design tailored to your lifestyle, blending outstanding craftsmanship with high-quality materials to create a space that’s truly yours.
