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This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features a timeless family kitchen design by 2024 SBID Awards Finalist, Snug Kitchens.

Snug Kitchens transformed a traditional home in Newbury, Berkshire, into an open-plan haven for a young, growing family. Collaborating closely with local architects, interior designers, and builders, we created a versatile kitchen that serves as the home's social hub. The design emphasises durability and sustainability, featuring bespoke British-made cabinetry, walnut internals, and heat-resistant porcelain worktops. A forward-facing cooking space, ample storage, and a large island for game preparation were key elements, catering to the client's love for hunting and family needs. This project seamlessly blends practicality, aesthetic appeal, and environmental consciousness.

Category: Kitchen Design

Design Practice: Snug Kitchens

Project Title: Mulberry House

Project Location: Newbury, United Kingdom

Design Practice Location: Newbury, United Kingdom

Photographer: Darren Chung

What was the client's brief?

Our brief was to design and install the kitchen, pantry, utility room and surrounding cabinetry for Mulberry House in Newbury, Berkshire. Our clients were keen to create an open-plan space that functioned as a social hub, adaptable for entertaining larger groups and for busy everyday family living. This required the kitchen to marry the functionality and practicality of everyday family life with the warmth of the adjacent snug and dining areas.

Photographer: Darren Chung

What inspired the design of the project?

The client’s young family was at the centre of this project. In the early design stages, we focussed on the architecture of the property when zoning the space to achieve balance between the kitchen and surrounding areas. In order to cater for our clients love for cooking and socializing, it was integral we achieved the perfect flow through the property before looking into the design. Functionality and practicality at the forefront throughout this project, this included material decisions especially in high use areas like the breakfast bar and worktop. Stylistically we studied the property's architecture and concluded a traditional in-frame beaded shaker kitchen best suited the space.

Photographer: Darren Chung
Photographer: Darren Chung

What was the toughest hurdle your team overcame during the project?

A late addition to this project was an aircon unit being installed in the pantry which significantly lowered the ceiling height. To work around this, we removed the plinth from the open shelving units and sat them directly on the floor. This worked to our advantage as it meant the pantry shelving could be floor to ceiling, maximising the available space.

Photographer: Darren Chung

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

We love all the small bespoke details we were able to incorporate into this project. Due to our client’s generous budget, we worked with the finest in-frame walnut veneered cabinetry, complete with solid antique brass handles to create a timeless look. It was vital the spaces flowed seamlessly, to achieve this we used the same skirting as the rest of the room and ran the room coving around the front of the tall units to give a ‘built-in’ feel. Where ventilation for in-built appliances was required, we used brass mesh that we powder coated to match the brass handles. Overall, we loved working with our clients to create a space that allows them to grow together as a family.

Photographer: Darren Chung

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

We believe this project demonstrates all things, Snug Kitchens. Our holistic design approach, bespoke hand-crafted British cabinetry and how we seamlessly integrate with an extended project team. We collaborated closely with Absolute Architecture to establish the interior architecture of the property. The Hive Interior Designers helped bring a strong vision to the overall scheme of the property and along with our detail orientated designers we created a functional and stunning design.

Photographer: Darren Chung
Nick McColgan, Director at Snug Kitchens

What has being an Award Finalist meant to you and your business?

We were extremely proud to be selected as a finalist for the SBID awards this year as it is a recognition of the hard work our whole team puts in. We strive to always add value to every client’s home, enhance their lifestyle and ensure the project runs seamlessly from concept to completion.

Questions answered by Nick McColgan, Director at Snug Kitchens.

We hope you feel inspired by this week's design!

If you missed the last instalment of Project of the Week, featuring historically themed hotel bedroom designs by Atrio, click here to read it.

If you think that using metal in the kitchen will create a cold and clinical look, then it's definitely time to think again. In the right hands, metal is actually one of the most flexible materials around and can be used to bring a wholly warm and inviting vibe. And unlocking the natural beauty of metallic finishes is both the passion and speciality of Charlie Smallbone, founder of Ledbury Studio.

By hand ageing and patinating everything from copper and brass to zinc and stainless steel, Charlie and his team of artisans craft unique kitchen designs. What they have in common, however, is these are simply beautiful kitchens in which to cook, gather and spend time.

Here are the three wildly different but equally luxurious kitchens created from stainless steel, copper and zinc...

Ledbury Studio

Stainless steel for the Oxford kitchen

The Oxford kitchen is proof positive that cool and masculine stainless steel can-in the right hands - be made to radiate warmth. The brushed effect on the cabinetry softens the feel and appearance of the metal, which is here further elevated by aged brass accents. Charlie was tasked with matching the metals to the La Cornue range cooker, which was done meticulously by hand, demonstrating the artistry of custom craftsmanship. Teamed with a Carrara marble, English walnut and fluted glass, the overall effect is breathtakingly luxurious.

Ledbury Studio
Ledbury Studio

Copper for the Cotswolds kitchen

The brief for the Cotswolds kitchen was to create a design of contrasting textures. To meet this, Charlie chose planks of crown oak for the furniture, which provides a tactile difference with the stainless-steel appliances. For further contrast in the open-plan space, he designed a breakfast and drinks cupboard, clad in patinated Verdigris copper. This showcases the natural variation that occurs when copper ages with all the resulting colour and pattern creating a striking focal point in the dining area of the room.

Ledbury Studio

Zinc for the New Forest kitchen

The owner of this Edwardian villa in the New Forest definitely didn't want a classic kitchen and tasked Charlie with creating something a world away from the standard Shaker. His response was to team beautiful book-matched walnut veneer with hand-patinated zinc panels. The zinc panels are edged in the same walnut and the cupboards feature aged-brass handles. The zinc helps to make a focal point not only of the island, but also the breakfast cupboard behind - and has been used to clad the fridge-freezer in the corner, bringing the whole design together.

Ledbury Studio

Prices for a Ledbury Studio kitchen start from £70,000.

About Ledbury Studio Ltd

Charlie Smallbone needs little introduction. The founder of iconic brand Smallbone of Devizes, he has been pushing the boundaries of kitchen design for over 40 years. Charlie’s latest venture, Ledbury Studio, was born of his desire to harness the beauty of original materials whilst creating practical kitchens that exude style and elegance.

If you’d like to feature your news or stories on SBID.org, get in touch to find out more. 

If you’d like to become SBID Accredited, click here for more information.

When designing a kitchen for serious cooking, drawing inspiration from the layouts preferred by professional chefs can be incredibly valuable. Since chefs spend countless hours in the kitchen, their expertise offers practical insights that can enhance both the functionality and efficiency of your kitchen design ideas.

Over the years, Roundhouse Design has collaborated with numerous talented chefs, designing both their personal kitchens and the chef-friendly working kitchens in our showrooms. One thing has become clear – when it comes to creating the ultimate chef’s kitchen, the galley layout reigns supreme.

A galley kitchen is a corridor-style layout with two parallel countertops and a central walkway. In narrow kitchens, a single galley is often preferred. Whether single or double galley, this design consistently proves to be the top choice for professionals, offering exceptional workflow efficiency and maximising space in kitchens of all sizes. But what makes this layout so effective, and how can it be adapted to suit different homes? Let’s explore why chefs love the galley kitchen and how you can make it work for your space.

Roundhouse Design
Roundhouse Design

What are the benefits of the galley layout?

Chefs prefer the galley kitchen layout because it is designed for maximum efficiency, by which we mean minimal walking around the kitchen. With everything positioned within arm’s reach, exactly where you need it, the galley layout minimises unnecessary movement and allows for a smooth workflow. Not great for your step count, but excellent for getting dinner on the table quickly and easily. Ideal for high-intensity cooking, this linear layout keeps prep, cooking and cleaning areas within a few steps of each other. In a single one-wall galley kitchen, you’ll move from side to side – almost like a crab! – whereas a double galley layout provides additional workspace and storage, allowing you to pivot effortlessly between both sides.

Does the galley layout work for any size kitchen?

The galley layout is very versatile and can work in most kitchens, including small kitchen ideas, but there are a few points to consider. In an ideal world, a galley kitchen should be around 3-4.5m long to accommodate all the essential appliances, storage and sink, with sufficient workspace between. Any shorter, and prep space could get tight; any longer and you’ll lose efficiency. On width, aim for a 1.2m minimum walkway between cabinets and the opposite wall in a single galley and at least 1.8m walkway between the two parallel runs for a double galley layout. This will allow people to pass each other comfortably and doors to be opened without obstructing the aisle.

How do chefs adapt the galley layout in their own homes?

Many chefs love to entertain while cooking and will opt for an open-plan galley layout, whereby an elongated island sits parallel to a long run of units. This provides all the benefits of a double galley layout but within a much more sociable setting. To make their home kitchens more family-friendly, chefs will often add extra prep spaces and prep sinks on the bespoke island to encourage communal cooking and share skills.

Roundhouse Design
Roundhouse Design

How can I organise my kitchen like a chef?

Whatever layout you go for, it’s easy to bring a professional touch to your kitchen. Chefs swear by the working triangle rule, where the sink, cooker and fridge are positioned in a triangle formation for optimal efficiency. When planning storage, aim for a clear view of cupboard contents in one glance – clear storage containers and a label maker are chef essentials. Walk-in pantries with open shelves are also great for gathering ingredients quickly, like professional chefs do in the food stores of commercial kitchens.

Finally, keeping your workspace clutter-free is essential when you’re cooking up a storm. A boiling water tap removes the need for a kettle, while magnetic knife strips and custom in-drawer compartments for utensils and herbs help to minimise countertop clutter, ensuring everything you need is always within easy reach.

There’s plenty to learn from the best layout ideas for a chef’s kitchen. While we can’t promise Michelin-star meals, our made-to-measure service ensures that a bespoke kitchen from Roundhouse will create a professional-grade cooking space that elevates your culinary experience and makes light work of dinnertime. Whether you’re looking for a modern kitchen design, small kitchen design, or a more tailored kitchen cabinet design, pop along to one of our showrooms to find out more.

About Roundhouse Design Ltd

Founded by architects, Roundhouse is a multi-award-winning British company, creating beautiful bespoke kitchens and furniture. Their stunning kitchen designs feature a signature understated aesthetic, influenced by contemporary and traditional design, using innovative materials, texture and colour. Each project is made to measure from a wide range of stunning finishes. Expertly crafted by skilled designers and makers in a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Malvern, Worcestershire. Visit any of seven Roundhouse Design kitchen showrooms; Wigmore St, Clapham, Fulham, Richmond, Cambridge, Guildford & Cheltenham.

If you’d like to feature your news or stories on SBID.org, get in touch to find out more. 

If you’d like to become SBID Accredited, click here for more information.

Matteo De Lise, General Manager at Unox Casa, has given his insights into the industry.

Unox Casa is the high-end residential division of UNOX, the world’s best-selling brand of professional ovens. It was created to bring the performance of the greatest Michelin-starred kitchens into the world’s most exclusive private homes. SuperOven is the first oven to integrate cutting-edge professional technology with iconic Italian design, transforming kitchens into spaces of inspiration, beauty, and performance.

Unox Casa
Unox Casa

What are the origins of the brand?

Unox Casa was born from a bold ambition: to bring the power and precision of the world’s finest professional kitchens into private luxury homes. Backed by more than 30 years of UNOX leadership in the restaurant industry, it reimagines culinary excellence for the residential setting.

The idea took shape during the pandemic, when the desire for professional-grade appliances at home intensified. Inspired by UNOX founders’ personal experiences - and by dinner guests who frequently asked how to recreate restaurant-level cooking at home - SuperOven was born. It represents the world’s first professional oven designed specifically for luxury living, fusing elite performance with iconic Italian craftsmanship.

Unox Casa

How do your products and services enhance interior design projects?

More than an appliance, SuperOven is a design statement. Available in two models - Model 1, a tech-totem with dual chambers, and Model 1S, a compact single-chamber version- it merges professional-grade performance with sculptural elegance, turning the oven into a centrepiece rather than a background element. Unlike traditional appliances that recede quietly into the kitchen, SuperOven stands out with intention thanks to its recognisable aesthetic, striking lines, and finishes that transform it into a jewel of contemporary living, a diamond set into architecture.

Its refined and iconic Italian design allows it to effortlessly integrate into a variety of interior styles - from minimalist and contemporary to industrial or high-tech environments. More than fitting in, it enhances each project by bringing depth, sophistication, and the powerful allure of technology made art. Furthermore, the variety of finishes and installation options (flush, cantilevered, or freestanding) enable a high degree of customisation, empowering designers and homeowners alike to create kitchens that reflect their unique style, vision and personality.

Unox Casa

What value does your specialist sector add to the industry?

In every home, the kitchen is more than just a functional space: it is the beating heart, a place of connection, creativity, and expression. Within it, the oven is a cornerstone: the silent ally around which rituals and memories are built.

At Unox Casa, we bring a new dimension to this central element through the advanced technology embedded in SuperOven. This innovation transforms the cooking experience, allowing users to express their culinary vision without being bound by technical complexity. The oven’s user-friendly digital control panel allows activation of over 400 automatic cooking programmes, for which all it takes is to select the type of food and the desired result and the oven automatically determines the settings, adapting them to the amount of food being cooked. The oven itself becomes a guide for homeowners - adapting, suggesting, and supporting each step of the cooking process.

This means clients are free to focus on what truly matters: enjoying time, experimenting with flavours and colours, and living the kitchen not as a task, but as a pleasure. Our sector redefines luxury not just through design and materials, but by giving time and creativity to those who live the home.

Unox Casa

How do you work with interior designers?

We believe that every home tells a story, and our mission is to ensure the kitchen becomes one of its most compelling chapters. That’s why we created the Design Concierge: a dedicated service tailored to the unique needs of interior designers and architects.

Our team of experts works closely with design professionals from the earliest stages of a project, offering 360-degree bespoke support - from technical guidance to aesthetic consultation. Whether it’s selecting finishes, defining installation details, or seamlessly integrating SuperOven into a custom kitchen concept, we ensure the product enhances the space both visually and functionally.

Through this collaborative approach, Unox Casa doesn’t merely adapt to a design - it elevates it. SuperOven becomes a sculptural and technological centrepiece that embodies the designer’s vision and enriches the client’s daily experience. Ultimately, it’s about reimagining the kitchen around those who live it, delivering true excellence in every detail.

Unox Casa

What has been your most significant company highlight or success from the past year?

One of the most significant milestones of the past year has been the global expansion of Unox Casa into new, strategically relevant markets. From our official launch in Turkey, to new openings in many Latin American countries, and a growing presence in the United Arab Emirates, the brand continues to affirm its international vision.

In particular, the debut in the US market during Art Basel marked a major achievement, underscored by SuperOven Model 1S - Black Edition receiving the prestigious Good Design Award. This recognition celebrates not only the product’s technological innovation but also its sculptural elegance - a perfect expression of Italian design excellence.

These new openings reflect our commitment to bringing our iconic lifestyle, Starred Living, to the world’s most discerning homes. Each new market represents an opportunity to build meaningful connections with local design communities and to inspire new ways of living the kitchen as a space of beauty, performance, and creativity.

Unox Casa

What are the latest trends you’ve noticed in your client’s requests?

One of the most prominent trends among our clients today is the desire for kitchen spaces that embody both clarity and purpose: environments that are at once minimalist, multifunctional, and emotionally meaningful. Clients are increasingly seeking orderly, elegant spaces that serve as true gathering points, hubs for family life and social connection.

The kitchen is no longer a backstage area; it is a central stage, where functionality must be paired with refined aesthetics. This means clean lines, hidden technologies, and intuitive layouts that promote efficient movement between appliances and support a seamless daily experience.

In this evolving landscape, SuperOven becomes a silent ally in everyday life, simplifying the preparation of extraordinary meals and inviting everyone, from expert cooks to curious children, to participate in the pleasure of creating together. It’s technology that brings people closer, making the kitchen not just efficient, but truly alive.

Unox Casa
Unox Casa

How do you see the interior design industry evolving in the year ahead?

In the year ahead, the interior design industry is poised to deepen its focus on digitally empowered living, where technology becomes an invisible yet essential presence in the home. As robotic and intelligent systems take on more daily tasks, domestic spaces will evolve to become cleaner, more intuitive, and inherently minimalist - not just in form, but in function. We foresee a continued rise in designs that embrace ‘quiet’ luxury, expressed through a refined blend of natural and synthetic materials, tactile surfaces, and sculptural elements that awaken the senses.

Within this evolution, the kitchen remains the soul of the home - a space for gathering, creativity, and daily rituals. Here, SuperOven emerges as a natural protagonist, perfectly embodying the balance between technological intelligence and timeless beauty. It frees time, streamlines routines, and above all, brings people together through the shared joy of culinary exploration. Objects of design become real enablers of togetherness, where innovation serves the rituals that truly matter.

Is there anything new you are excited to be working on?

We’re particularly excited about the recent launch of the Unox Casa App: a bold step forward in kitchen digitalisation and a perfect embodiment of our vision for the home of the future. As daily life becomes increasingly shaped by smart technologies, people are seeking tools that offer not just automation, but meaningful, intuitive experiences. The Unox Casa App responds to this shift by transforming the SuperOven into a fully connected companion, capable of empowering users wherever they are.

More than just remote control, the App offers a personalised culinary ecosystem. From real-time monitoring of cooking and cleaning cycles to the ability to create and send custom cooking programmes remotely, every detail is designed to simplify routines while unleashing creative freedom. The “Cook Like a Chef” section, a curated library of recipes developed by our own chefs and Michelin-starred partners, turns the App into an endless source of inspiration, like a digital culinary atelier.

What does being an SBID Accredited Industry Partner mean to you?

Becoming an SBID Accredited Industry Partner is both an honour and a meaningful affirmation of our commitment to design excellence. It reflects our dedication to forging deep connections with the UK interior design community, and to supporting professionals who shape the most refined and forward-thinking living environments.

This partnership, which comes at a moment of meaningful growth in the UK, is a new opportunity for dialogue and collaboration – a chance to inspire and be inspired by visionary designers. Being part of SBID allows us to contribute to a shared our idea of the kitchen of the future, where every design choice enhances the lives of those who inhabit the space. For Unox Casa, it is another step in our journey to elevate luxury living to a new starred level.

Matteo De Lise, General Manager at Unox Casa

About Unox Casa

Unox Casa is the high-end residential division of UNOX, the world’s best-selling brand of professional ovens. Created to bring Michelin-level performance to private homes, it introduces SuperOven: a fusion of cutting-edge professional tech and iconic Italian design, transforming kitchens into spaces of inspiration, beauty, and performance. The SuperOven collection includes Model 1, a tech-totem with dual chambers, and Red Dot Award winner Model 1S, featuring a single chamber. SuperOven enables cooking methods not found in traditional ovens such as grilling, steaming, smoking and many more. Its intuitive digital panel boasts over 400 automatic cooking programmes adjusting settings based on food quantity. The oven also cleans itself automatically using water and an eco-friendly, patented detergent.

If you’d like to feature your news or stories on SBID.org, get in touch to find out more. 

If you’d like to become SBID Accredited, click here for more information.

Neutral kitchen design never goes out of fashion – after all, timelessness is its USP! Yet subtle seasonal shifts and emerging trends continuously infuse fresh vitality into this classic look, ensuring that neutral kitchen cabinets remain both modern and relevant in homes of all styles. For 2025, Roundhouse designers are anticipating a move away from cool neutrals – pure whites and greys – towards warmer, more inviting neutral kitchen colour schemes.

First spotted at the Milan Furniture Fair and now firmly evident across the interiors landscape, we’re talking about pale browns, soft beiges and warm taupes. Still timeless and easy on the eye, the new neutrals trend is all about incorporating earthy colours that bring a sense of nature indoors, instilling a sense of calm and balance into contemporary kitchens. What’s not to love? Here’s how to bring this refreshing trend into your kitchen.

Roundhouse Design
Roundhouse Design

Introduce warmth with wood and stone

One of the easiest ways to work the earthy neutrals trend in kitchens is by integrating natural materials like wood and stone. Timber toned cabinetry, worktops, and open shelving in warm, natural finishes can dramatically shift the ambient temperature of a neutral kitchen. Similarly, stone elements – whether they are marble-inspired quartz or natural stone splashbacks – will help reinforce the connection to outdoors. Patinated metallic finishes in warm copper tones dial into the terracotta trend, without disrupting the serene atmosphere of a soothing neutral scheme.

Layer in the texture

Embracing earthy neutrals is about more than the colour of the walls or cabinets, it’s about creating a layered, tactile energy that tunes into all the senses. Textures play a pivotal role in this interior design philosophy – think woven textiles, rustic timber and burnished metals. Even with a neutral palette that deliberately lacks strong colour contrasts, you can shake things up a little just by mixing up matte and gloss finishes. This dynamic interplay of textures will add depth and subtle friction that feels sophisticated. Don’t overlook the effects of light and shadow on textural surfaces – they can dramatically enhance depth, highlight movement, and bring your kitchen’s design details to life throughout the day.

Roundhouse Design
Roundhouse Design

Be clever with colour accents

While earthy neutrals provide a relaxed foundation, that doesn’t mean brighter colours are banned. Modern neutral palettes tend to be in warmer tones, which makes them so easy to elevate with the strategic use of colour accents. The key is to go for subtle colour pops, nothing that overpowers. Roundhouse designers recommend allowing around 20% of the palette for accent colour if you want to keep the balance firmly neutral. Accessories, such as ceramic vases, patterned cushions, window treatments or art that incorporate colours inspired by nature are all great choices. For more permanent accent colours, try kitchen splashbacks in burnished copper, or a two-tone kitchen with pale perimeter cabinets and an island in deep green or soft sage. Aim for accent colours that tie in beautifully with the overall warm, earthy theme, providing contrast while still harmonising with your core neutral shades.

Focus on lighting

The importance of lighting cannot be overemphasised when planning an earthy neutral palette. Above all, you need to avoid a chilly atmosphere, so aim for light bulbs with colour rendition in the range of 2700K-3000K, which will provide a warm, white light that complements soft neutrals like stone and greige. Also try to plan in as much natural light as possible to highlight the depth and variety of a neutral palette throughout the day. Large-scale architectural glazing is ideal, while skylights and roof lanterns are also a popular way to flood a neutral kitchen with light.

The new neutrals trend in kitchens is about more than just a switch in colour – it’s a shift towards creating spaces that nurture, comfort, and inspire. For more ideas and inspiration, why not head to one of our showrooms and chat to our design team?

About Roundhouse Design Ltd

Founded by architects, Roundhouse is a multi-award-winning British company, creating beautiful bespoke kitchens and furniture. Their stunning kitchen designs feature a signature understated aesthetic, influenced by contemporary and traditional design, using innovative materials, texture and colour. Each project is made to measure from a wide range of stunning finishes. Expertly crafted by skilled designers and makers in a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Malvern, Worcestershire. Visit any of seven Roundhouse Design kitchen showrooms; Wigmore St, Clapham, Fulham, Richmond, Cambridge, Guildford & Cheltenham.

If you’d like to feature your news or stories on SBID.org, get in touch to find out more. 

If you’d like to become SBID Accredited, click here for more information.

Join Miele for live cooking demonstrations and expert product presentations, designed to bring their offerings to life!

This event aims to foster valuable networking opportunities and showcase the brand new facilities and services we offer to support you and your clients at Miele’s newest Experience Centre in London. Additionally, we will be displaying our latest Nova series of laundry products, which were launched in March.

To ensure a personalised experience, we have limited spaces available. Kindly confirm your attendance along with any colleagues who will be joining you at your earliest convenience and inform us of any dietary requirements so that we may accommodate your needs.

SBID Members earn 2 x CPD points for attending!

RSVP

Please RSVP with any dietary requirements by 16th May.

Join Miele for live cooking demonstrations and expert product presentations, designed to bring their offerings to life!

This event aims to foster valuable networking opportunities and showcase the facilities and services we offer to support you and your clients. Additionally, we will be displaying our latest Nova series of laundry products, which were launched in March.

To ensure a personalised experience, we have limited spaces available. Kindly confirm your attendance along with any colleagues who will be joining you at your earliest convenience and inform us of any dietary requirements so that we may accommodate your needs.

SBID Members earn 2 x CPD points for attending!

RSVP

Please RSVP with any dietary requirements by 9th May.

Richard Davonport, Owner and Managing Director of Davonport Kitchen & Home, has given his insights into the industry.

At Davonport, we have been designing and crafting bespoke handmade kitchens and furniture for over 30 years, creating beautifully tailored interiors that seamlessly blend form and function. Every piece is thoughtfully made in our UK workshop, using the finest materials and time-honoured techniques to ensure lasting quality and character.

Our bespoke approach allows us to collaborate closely with designers and clients, shaping interiors that feel both timeless and entirely personal. Whether it’s a statement kitchen or furniture for the whole home, we take pride in balancing elegance with practicality, ensuring each space enhances the way people live. From initial concept to the final details, our meticulous craftsmanship and dedication to excellence, create interiors that feel effortlessly refined, unique, and made to stand the test of time.

Davonport Kitchen & Home
Davonport Kitchen & Home

What are the origins of the brand?

Davonport was founded on a deep appreciation for craftsmanship, something that has been part of my family for generations. My father, Aubrey, was a member of the British Woodcarvers Association, and from an early age, I was surrounded by the art of woodworking. This instilled in me a love for fine craftsmanship and attention to detail.

After studying Furniture Design and Cabinet Making, I set up my own workshop in the early 1990s, initially creating fine furniture before shifting my focus to handcrafted kitchens in 1996. As demand grew, so did Davonport, leading to our move in 2013 to a purpose-built workshop and showroom in Colchester. While the business has evolved, our values remain the same—working with the finest materials, using time-honoured techniques, and creating furniture that not only enhances interiors but also stands the test of time. As I often say, “It’s not just a job, as the furniture we make carries my name.”

Davonport Kitchen & Home

How do your products and services enhance interior design projects?

At Davonport, we believe that every interior should be a reflection of the people who live in it. Our bespoke kitchens and furniture are thoughtfully designed to complement each project’s unique aesthetic, ensuring a seamless integration with the wider interior scheme. No two kitchens are ever the same—we take the time to understand the vision, crafting spaces that are not only beautiful but also practical and tailored to individual lifestyles.

Our expertise extends beyond cabinetry, allowing us to support interior designers with everything from spatial planning to material selection, ensuring a cohesive and well-balanced design. Whether providing guidance on colour palettes, lighting, or statement finishes, we collaborate closely to create interiors that feel harmonious and considered. From initial concept to installation, our meticulous craftsmanship and attention to detail ensure that every space we create is timeless, functional, and designed to be lived in.

Davonport Kitchen & Home

What value does your specialist sector add to the industry?

We feel that truly exceptional interiors are built on craftsmanship, quality materials, and thoughtful design. Our bespoke approach allows us to create kitchens and furniture that not only enhance the aesthetic of a space but also add genuine long-term value to a home. Unlike mass-produced alternatives, our handcrafted pieces are made to last for generations, promoting sustainability and reducing the need for replacements over time.

For interior designers and architects, this means having complete creative freedom—every detail is tailored to complement the wider scheme, ensuring a cohesive and beautifully considered result. Our expertise and collaborative approach allow us to support designers at every stage, from concept through to installation, making the process seamless. In an industry that often leans toward fast furniture and fleeting trends, we take pride in championing authenticity, craftsmanship, and enduring quality, helping to create interiors that are as timeless as they are functional.

Davonport Kitchen & Home

How do you work with interior designers?

Collaboration is the key to creating beautifully cohesive interiors. We work closely with interior designers, offering a flexible approach that adapts to the needs of each project. Whether providing full kitchen and interior planning—including flooring, lighting, and colour schemes—or simply focusing on the layout and design of our bespoke furniture, we tailor our involvement to complement the designer’s vision.

Our handcrafted kitchens and interiors are designed to seamlessly integrate into wider schemes, ensuring a balance of aesthetics and functionality. We understand the importance of detail, precision, and high-quality materials, which is why we take the time to refine every aspect of our work. With our expertise in bespoke craftsmanship and an open, collaborative approach, we help designers bring their concepts to life, creating interiors that feel considered, cohesive, and effortlessly elegant.

Davonport Kitchen & Home

What has been your most significant company highlight or success from the past year?

Sustainability is an integral part of our approach, and in 2023, we took a significant step forward by installing solar panels across our 20,000 sq. ft. workshop roof. This investment now allows us to generate enough electricity to fully power our showroom and head office, as well as a substantial portion of our workshop, reducing our reliance on external energy sources.

This builds on our previous sustainability efforts, including upgrading our workshop roof insulation in 2022 to improve energy efficiency. These initiatives reflect our ongoing commitment to responsible manufacturing—ensuring that our handcrafted kitchens and interiors are not only made to last but are also created with a mindful approach to the environment. By continuously refining our processes, we aim to support designers in creating interiors that are as considered and sustainable as they are beautiful.

Davonport Kitchen & Home

What are the latest trends you’ve noticed in your client’s requests?

We’re seeing a renewed appreciation for natural timbers in kitchen and interior design, whether as a primary material or a subtle accent. This shift towards organic textures brings warmth and authenticity to spaces, and as craftsmen, we love working with wood to highlight its unique character and timeless appeal.

Alongside this, there’s a growing preference for bold statement stones, with advancements in porcelain technology allowing for full bodied veined surfaces and dramatic finishes. These materials add a sense of luxury and individuality to worktops and splashbacks, helping to create kitchens with real personality.

We’re also noticing a resurgence in deeper mouldings and intricate detailing, adding depth and elegance to interiors. This blend of classic craftsmanship with contemporary materials reflects a movement towards enduring, thoughtfully designed spaces—something we always strive to achieve in our bespoke kitchens and furniture.

Davonport Kitchen & Home

How do you see the interior design industry evolving in the year ahead?

The interior design industry continues to evolve, with a growing focus on sustainability, natural materials, and designs that stand the test of time. More than ever, clients are moving away from fast trends and instead investing in high-quality, thoughtfully crafted interiors that feel personal and enduring.

Bespoke craftsmanship is becoming increasingly sought after, as homeowners look for spaces that reflect their lifestyle and individuality. From carefully curated materials to tailored design details, there is a shift towards interiors that balance beauty with longevity—creating homes that feel both considered and effortlessly timeless.

Davonport Kitchen & Home

Is there anything new you are excited to be working on?

We’re fortunate to be involved in a variety of beautifully designed projects, from bespoke kitchens to full-home interiors, each crafted to reflect the unique style and needs of our clients.

Beyond our design work, we’re particularly excited about our ongoing commitment to nurturing the next generation of craftsmen and women. Our Davonport Gauge of Excellence competition, held at a local college, challenges aspiring artisans to test their skills in a timed furniture-making challenge, helping them refine their craft under real-world conditions. We also work closely with the college, hosting showroom and workshop days where students can experience the practical application of their skills—whether in design, cabinet making, or fine craftsmanship. Supporting emerging talent in the industry is something we’re incredibly passionate about, and we’re always looking for ways to inspire and encourage the future of bespoke furniture making.

What does being an SBID Accredited Industry Partner mean to you?

Becoming an SBID Accredited Industry Partner is a wonderful achievement and a reflection of our dedication to bespoke kitchen and interior design. Craftsmanship has always been at the heart of what we do, and this accreditation is a valued recognition of the professionalism and high standards we bring to every project.

For our clients and design partners, it serves as a mark of trust and quality, reinforcing our commitment to thoughtful, well-crafted interiors that balance beauty and function. Being part of SBID allows us to align with the highest industry standards, ensuring our designs not only meet but exceed expectations, creating spaces that feel both timeless and considered.

Richard Davonport, Owner and Managing Director of Davonport Kitchen & Home

About Davonport Kitchen and Home

Davonport Kitchen & Home creates exquisite, British handmade bespoke kitchens and whole-home furniture, blending timeless design with exceptional craftsmanship. Every piece is meticulously crafted in our UK workshop, using the finest materials and traditional techniques to ensure unparalleled quality and durability. Our bespoke service tailors each project to individual lifestyles, balancing beauty and functionality. With decades of expertise, we transform homes with elegant, enduring designs that stand the test of time. From concept to completion, our attention to detail and passion for perfection ensure every space is unique, reflecting the personality and needs of our discerning clients.

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How often do you find yourself scrabbling around in the back of kitchen cupboards to locate the right spice? Perhaps daily – especially if you have a large collection of herbs and spices to sort through. That’s why customised spice racks are fast becoming an essential kitchen storage feature in our luxury bespoke kitchens. A super organised spice rack will neatly order your cumin, cardamom, paprika and pepper – and let you access everything at a glance. And don’t forget our spice racks can be tailored to suit your space. So whether you want a skinny pull out spice rack next to your oven or a dedicated spice drawer organizer, Roundhouse can help.

Is it time to spice up your life? We think so.

Try pantry cabinet spice storage

Our pantry cabinets are spot on for stashing all your dried foods in one central hub – and that includes spice storage. Yes, door spice racks are a clever way to streamline your spice collection – and one of our most popular kitchen storage ideas. Slim shelving is attached to the inside of pantry cabinet doors with bars or rails to keep your herbs and spices neatly in place. It also ensures spices are stored away from direct light. By collaborating with our designers, we can work out the exact distance between your spice racks to suit the size of your jars, bottles and packets. And the idea works for both single and double door pantry cabinets. Start by looking at our clever storage ideas and you’ll see how special our spice racks really are.

Roundhouse Design
Roundhouse Design

Find space for a spice drawer organizer

Kitchen drawers aren’t just for cutlery and utensils. So why not consider a spice drawer organizer? These flat lay spice racks are ergonomic and super accessible with no bending or reaching when you need to grab a cinnamon or saffron. Our spice drawers are generally divided up using tiered trays that are slightly angled to further improve visibility. They also extend out fully so your entire spice rack is visible in seconds. And if you choose a Roundhouse bespoke kitchen, your spice drawer organizer can be as big or as compact as you please. Ready to order? Book an informal chat with one of our kitchen designers so we can help turn your kitchen ideas into a reality.

Wall mount a spice rack organizer

Not sure what to do with an unused, unloved wall space? Why not utilise it with a hardworking spice rack? In this luxury kitchen room, a special timber spice rack organizer creates an orderly hub for tidy rows of glass jars and bottles. The bespoke piece even has space for a kitchen roll dispenser and chopping board – plus open shelves to display cookery books. Here at Roundhouse we adore mixing and matching fitted and unfitted kitchen storage ideas. Let’s work together and create beautiful bespoke kitchens tailored to you and your lifestyle.

Roundhouse Design
Roundhouse Design

Consider a pull out spice rack

Don’t worry if space is tight. We can work around this with a pull out spice rack that slides out from your Roundhouse bespoke kitchen. Kitted out with slim shelving and internal pull-outs, these space-saving spice racks pack in a ton of kitchen storage. We can vary the depths of the shelving to accommodate different sized bottles and jars. And you have the opportunity to customise your pull out spice rack with a range of different materials such as wood, glass or metal. That’s because all of our British made kitchens are expertly crafted in a huge range of finishes. It’s a great idea to position your spice storage next to the oven and hob area. So when you’re whipping up a curry or a casserole you have all your herbs and spices to hand. Hot stuff.

Ready to explore a bespoke spice rack? Book a design consultation with one of our experts and watch your kitchen come to life.

About Roundhouse Design Ltd

Founded by architects, Roundhouse is a multi-award-winning British company, creating beautiful bespoke kitchens and furniture. Their stunning kitchen designs feature a signature understated aesthetic, influenced by contemporary and traditional design, using innovative materials, texture and colour. Each project is made to measure from a wide range of stunning finishes. Expertly crafted by skilled designers and makers in a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Malvern, Worcestershire. Visit any of seven Roundhouse Design kitchen showrooms; Wigmore St, Clapham, Fulham, Richmond, Cambridge, Guildford & Cheltenham.

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Ledbury Studio has elevated stainless steel from industrial to indulgent, marrying it with the warmth of aged brass, the richness of English walnut and the timeless elegance of Carrara marble. The result? A breathtakingly luxurious kitchen that exudes sophistication and charm.

A vision of warmth and femininity

The client's vision was nothing short of enchanting: a kitchen that radiated warmth and femininity,
while remaining effortlessly practical for hosting. She also already had her heart set on a La Cornue range cooker. As such, Ledbury Studio founder Charlie Smallbone curated a scheme of brushed stainless-steel cabinetry softened by the opulence of aged brass accents. The bespoke finishes were meticulously hand-matched to the range, demonstrating the artistry of custom craftsmanship.

Ledbury Studio
Ledbury Studio

A striking statement island

At the heart of the kitchen, a spectacular island commands attention, offering both a generous seating area for drinks or casual dining and plenty of prep space. The Carrara marble worktop is strikingly bisected by a strip of English walnut, visually defining the breakfast bar while adding warmth to the design. In addition, the marble is framed with patinated brass corner detailing, reminiscent of an elegant jewellery box.

Under the breakfast bar, the island is clad in a single sheet of hand-distressed brass, its rich patina lending texture and depth. On the working side, stainless steel drawers gleam with bespoke brass handles, while brass-framed steel panels at each end create a sleek, cohesive finish. Suspended above, a perfectly positioned pendant stylishly illuminates the island.

Ledbury Studio
Ledbury Studio

Elegant storage with a touch of glamour

Storage is seamlessly integrated into the fabric of this exquisite kitchen. To the left of the La Cornue range, built-in shelving provides a refined yet highly functional display, while to the right, a seamlessly integrated fridge is discreetly concealed behind bespoke stainless-steel cabinetry. Underneath, a double sink - sculpted from Carrara marble - makes a striking focal point and is usefully flanked by twin dishwashers.

On the opposite side, a row of fluted glass wall cabinets, elegantly framed in brass, offers both practical storage and a touch of glamour. A thoughtful finishing touch: a brushed stainless-steel frame encasing the brass details subtly links the wall units to the base units, ensuring a cohesive aesthetic.

Ledbury Studio
Ledbury Studio

A seamless transition to dining

Beyond the kitchen, there is a stylish dining area featuring custom banquette seating and a showstopping round table crafted from book-matched walnut. Then, framing the French doors to the garden, twin storage cupboards - clad in Ledbury Studio's signature 'Choppy Water' carved oak with brass detailing - offer both beauty and function. One serves as a discreet cocktail cabinet, complete with pocket doors and a mirrored back, while the other is a fully equipped larder cupboard.

Ledbury Studio
Ledbury Studio

A celebration of craftsmanship and functionality

"This kitchen is a true reflection of Ledbury Studio's dedication to innovative materials and meticulous craftsmanship," says Charlie Smallbone. "The blend of glamour and practicality is seamless, creating a space that is as stunning as it is functional. And what better testament to its success than the client hosting a 50-guest gathering just one week after installation - effortlessly entertaining in her spectacular new kitchen!"

Prices for a Ledbury Studio kitchen start from £70,000.

About Ledbury Studio Ltd

Charlie Smallbone needs little introduction. The founder of iconic brand Smallbone of Devizes, he has been pushing the boundaries of kitchen design for over 40 years. Charlie’s latest venture, Ledbury Studio, was born of his desire to harness the beauty of original materials whilst creating practical kitchens that exude style and elegance.

If you’d like to feature your news or stories on SBID.org, get in touch to find out more. 

If you’d like to become SBID Accredited, click here for more information.

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