In this episode of Love Your Kitchen, host Faye Newman shares six red flags to watch for before you commit to a kitchen renovation so your kitchen design works beautifully in daily life, not just on paper. She explains why function must lead form, how to spot technical gotchas (clearances, servicing, ventilation), and what “good” looks like in pricing transparency and designer collaboration.

Key Takeaways

Function before fashion. If a proposal focuses on style over workflow, walk away. Zoning (prep, cooking, cleaning), sensible worktop runs, and logical appliance positioning beat trends every time, especially in a small kitchen.

Design around real life and cooking. A good designer asks detective-style lifestyle questions: who cooks, what you cook (e.g., baking needs cooler solid surfaces and generous worktops), how you shop, and which small appliances you actually use. That’s how you get practical kitchen ideas that fit your routine.

Future-proof servicing. Build for easy access to venting hobs, boilers, stopcocks, and integrated appliances. Ventilation and access panels matter; skipping them can void guarantees or force costly tear-outs later.

Collaborate, don’t capitulate. Your designer should challenge thoughtfully, not dictate. If it feels like “my way or the highway,” it’s the wrong fit for your kitchen remodel.

Best Moments

“A great kitchen isn’t about following certain trends or aesthetics. It’s about creating a space that is… functional and perfectly suited for how you live.”

“A professional kitchen designer is a bit like a detective.”

“Don’t ever work with a company that [won’t give] a fully itemised quotation.”

“Your kitchen is for you and not your designer’s portfolio… You should never feel pressured.”

About the Host

Faye Newman is a freelance Kitchen Designer with eight years of experience in the industry. With a background in furniture design and a passion for creating spaces that reflect the essence of the home, Faye brings a unique perspective to kitchen design. Her dedication to client satisfaction and love for her craft shines through in every project she undertakes.

Connect with Faye Newman Design:

Visit: www.fayenewmandesign.com for kitchen inspiration and design resources.

Click me to join our email community for exclusive updates and tips.

Now available to watch on YouTube! Don’t forget to subscribe here and click the notification bell for visual inspiration and expert advice.

Follow us on Instagram @LoveYourKitchenPodcast for daily doses of kitchen design inspiration and behind-the-scenes glimpses.

Whether you're renovating your kitchen, looking for organisation hacks, or seeking culinary inspiration, Love Your Kitchen is your go-to resource for all things kitchen-related.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Love Your Kitchen, host Faye Newman tours Olive & Barr’s “Barn” showroom in Tenbury Wells to unpack a London-townhouse-inspired scheme. She explores how period details (tall skirtings, dado rail, coving) pair with a bold, colour-drenched palette, Farrow & Ball Pitch Black across cabinetry, walls and ceiling, balanced by bottle-green metro tiles, a fluted Belfast sink, and a brass-topped “baguette table.” It’s a masterclass in timeless kitchen design that still feels modern, with smart choices you can borrow for a kitchen renovation or kitchen remodel of any size.

Key Takeaways

Colour drenching can enlarge perception, even in a small kitchen. Dark, single-hue rooms blur edges so corners recede visually; used thoughtfully, this creates drama and a cocooning effect without shrinking the space. Great for galley layouts when paired with layered lighting.

Period features + in-frame cabinetry = effortless elegance. Tall skirting, architraves, dado and coving anchor a timeless look; the in-frame style sits naturally in townhouse architecture yet suits modern cooking and kitchen organisation.

Material mix that ages beautifully. A living-finish brass worktop and aged-brass hardware develop patina over time, perfect for a “forever” kitchen upgrade. Match taps and wastes for a cohesive detail.

Plan symmetry where you can. A wall-to-wall run with a centred fluted Belfast sink, bin and dishwasher adjacency, dresser cabinets and a continuous shelf delivers beautiful balance and practical workflow for everyday cooking.

Best Moments

“Colour drenching creates depth and drama—corners blur, the room reads larger, not smaller.”

“A living brass surface ages with you—it’s the beauty of a working kitchen, not a showroom set.”

“Keep the sink central with bin and dishwasher flanking it—functionality first, elegance follows.”

“If an island compromises flow, choose a peninsula and never look back.”

About the Host

Faye Newman is a freelance Kitchen Designer with eight years of experience in the industry. With a background in furniture design and a passion for creating spaces that reflect the essence of the home, Faye brings a unique perspective to kitchen design. Her dedication to client satisfaction and love for her craft shines through in every project she undertakes.

Connect with Faye Newman Design:

Visit: www.fayenewmandesign.com for kitchen inspiration and design resources.

Click me to join our email community for exclusive updates and tips.

Now available to watch on YouTube! Don’t forget to subscribe here and click the notification bell for visual inspiration and expert advice.

Follow us on Instagram @LoveYourKitchenPodcast for daily doses of kitchen design inspiration and behind-the-scenes glimpses.

Whether you're renovating your kitchen, looking for organisation hacks, or seeking culinary inspiration, Love Your Kitchen is your go-to resource for all things kitchen-related.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Love Your Kitchen, host Faye Newman chats with homeowners Sarah and Phil to reflect on their kitchen renovation two years on. This honest, real-life kitchen remodel covers design choices, delays, and how the space has reshaped daily cooking and family life. Expect practical kitchen ideas on zoning with an island, an appliance-hiding breakfast unit, a utility overhaul, and clever ways to manage light and storage.

Key Takeaways

Flow first in kitchen design. A compact working triangle (fridge–sink–hob/ovens) plus a generous island gives landing space for prep and serving.

Kitchen organisation beats clutter. A breakfast dresser (appliance garage) hides a kettle, toaster, microwave, and mixers, keeping counters clear while keeping everything to hand, especially helpful for enthusiastic home cooking.

A pantry that prevents waste. A reduced-depth larder makes every tin visible, cutting duplicates and food waste, smart kitchen ideas that work day-to-day.

Utility room that actually works. Stacked washer/dryer, a wider cupboard for hoover/ironing board, and boot storage turned a through-space into a calm organiser. (Yes, they even “measured Henry” for the cupboard!)

Prototype clearances. Masking-tape layouts and checking appliance doors (e.g., dishwasher on the island) avoided awkward shimmies later—simple, low-cost insurance during a kitchen remodel.

Best Moments

“The island… zones it really well and anchors the room.”

“Every morning… I come in and just think, I love it.”

“Delay is an inevitable part of the process… accept there will be delay.”

“Friday night kitchen discos… all getting involved with some vinyl on, it’s delightful.”

About the Host

Faye Newman is a freelance Kitchen Designer with eight years of experience in the industry. With a background in furniture design and a passion for creating spaces that reflect the essence of the home, Faye brings a unique perspective to kitchen design. Her dedication to client satisfaction and love for her craft shines through in every project she undertakes.

Connect with Faye Newman Design:

Visit: www.fayenewmandesign.com for kitchen inspiration and design resources.

Click me to join our email community for exclusive updates and tips.

Now available to watch on YouTube! Don’t forget to subscribe here and click the notification bell for visual inspiration and expert advice.

Follow us on Instagram @LoveYourKitchenPodcast for daily doses of kitchen design inspiration and behind-the-scenes glimpses.

Whether you're renovating your kitchen, looking for organisation hacks, or seeking culinary inspiration, Love Your Kitchen is your go-to resource for all things kitchen-related.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Love Your Kitchen, host Faye Newman dives into designing the perfect kitchen dresser and how to balance practicality and style so it truly serves your life. She shares kitchen ideas for positioning, sizing and detailing dressers within wider kitchen design plans, whether you’re mid kitchen renovation or simply planning specific kitchen upgrades.

Expect tips for small kitchen layouts, kitchen organisation, door mechanisms (hinged, bi-fold, pocket), lighting, materials, and even playful options for bar and breakfast stations that support everyday cooking and a more smart kitchen feel.

Key Takeaways

Start with purpose. Decide what the dresser must do: pantry-style storage, a working cupboard for small appliances, a breakfast station, or a bar zone. Function first keeps the look beautiful and useful.

Choose doors to match usage: Hinged doors suit display/glazed cabinets and pantries (great for spice racks). Bi-folds keep doors out of the way on busy stations. Pocket doors let you work with everything open, then close for a seamless façade—ideal in contemporary schemes.

Timeless/Shaker: play with stepped depths, cornice detail, pilasters/posts and moulded plinths; consider centralising a dresser to read as a freestanding piece.

Light like a pro (smart kitchen win): Use discreet, recessed profiles (vertical or under-shelf), plus wireless door sensors so lights trigger on opening—safer and more convenient when hands are full.

Best Moments

“If you’re working inside that cupboard a lot, pocket or bi-fold doors keep things open without getting in the way”

“Lighting gets overlooked, but in a highly functioning dresser, discreet sensors and profiles are game-changing.”

“Be playful: Reeded glass, rich interior colours and thoughtful detailing turn a simple cabinet into centrepiece.”

About the Host

Faye Newman is a freelance Kitchen Designer with eight years of experience in the industry. With a background in furniture design and a passion for creating spaces that reflect the essence of the home, Faye brings a unique perspective to kitchen design. Her dedication to client satisfaction and love for her craft shines through in every project she undertakes.

Connect with Faye Newman Design:

Visit: www.fayenewmandesign.com for kitchen inspiration and design resources.

Click me to join our email community for exclusive updates and tips.

Now available to watch on YouTube! Don’t forget to subscribe here and click the notification bell for visual inspiration and expert advice.

Follow us on Instagram @LoveYourKitchenPodcast for daily doses of kitchen design inspiration and behind-the-scenes glimpses.

Whether you're renovating your kitchen, looking for organisation hacks, or seeking culinary inspiration, Love Your Kitchen is your go-to resource for all things kitchen-related.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Love Your Kitchen, host Faye Newman shares practical Kitchen Ideas on tailoring your Kitchen Design to how you actually live, whether you’re an avid cook or more of a social butterfly, so your next Kitchen Renovation or Kitchen Remodel works beautifully day-to-day. Expect tips for Small Kitchen planning, Kitchen Organisation, clever Kitchen Upgrades, and even touches for a Smart Kitchen.

Key Takeaways

Give yourself proper worktop space. Prioritise long, uninterrupted prep surfaces near the hob for staging ingredients, chopping, and plating; measure what you have now and design from there (island or peninsula if helpful).

Choose appliances intentionally. Try brand showroom demos or home-economist sessions to compare functions; be open to newer methods (steam, sous vide) that can elevate everyday cooking.

Consider a drinks/bar zone. Design around what you actually drink (wine cooler—dual temperature if needed, mixer storage, garnishes). Plan ice (freezer maker, bags, trays or a convertible fridge drawer) and add sink/tap/dishwasher for easy clean-down; have fun with lighting and finishes (e.g., mirrored splashback, sensor lights).

If you’re short on space or going the DIY route. Add perch points, a slim peninsula, or widen doorways/remove doors to connect spaces; these are low-disruption DIY Kitchen moves that can make a big difference.

Best Moments

“Prioritise ample counter space, give yourself room to prep, cook and dish up.”

“Group your kitchen into usable zones so you’re not walking metres between oven, hob, fridge and prep.”

“Be open to new cooking methods like steam or sous-vide; the right function can save time and boost flavour.”

“Lighting sets the tone, use layers and dimmers so hosting feels relaxed, not clinical.”

About the Host

Faye Newman is a freelance Kitchen Designer with eight years of experience in the industry. With a background in furniture design and a passion for creating spaces that reflect the essence of the home, Faye brings a unique perspective to kitchen design. Her dedication to client satisfaction and love for her craft shines through in every project she undertakes.

Connect with Faye Newman Design:

Visit: www.fayenewmandesign.com for kitchen inspiration and design resources.

Click me to join our email community for exclusive updates and tips.

Now available to watch on YouTube! Don’t forget to subscribe here and click the notification bell for visual inspiration and expert advice.

Follow us on Instagram @LoveYourKitchenPodcast for daily doses of kitchen design inspiration and behind-the-scenes glimpses.

Whether you're renovating your kitchen, looking for organisation hacks, or seeking culinary inspiration, Love Your Kitchen is your go-to resource for all things kitchen-related.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Love Your Kitchen, host Faye Newman visits the Wigmore Street showroom of Sola Kitchens to speak with founder Sofia Bune Strandh. Together, they delve into the essence of Scandinavian kitchen design, exploring how beauty, practicality and personality blend in this award-winning kitchen brand.

Sofia shares her journey from solicitor to kitchen designer, revealing how a passion for cooking, interior aesthetics, and problem-solving led to the creation of Sola Kitchens. The conversation covers the fundamentals of kitchen renovation and the timeless principles behind Scandinavian kitchen design, from functional layouts and natural materials to bespoke cabinetry and innovative storage solutions.

Key Takeaways

Sola Kitchens favour solid timber and wood veneer for their texture, durability, and warmth. Their cabinetry is often hand-painted for ease of repair and a truly bespoke finish, ideal for busy homes or DIY kitchen enthusiasts looking for timeless appeal.

Scandinavian kitchen ideas aren’t limited to pale woods and white walls. From bold black kitchens in converted barns to soft oak tones layered with rattan, the designs show that texture, contrast, and considered kitchen upgrades can add real impact.

Clients are encouraged to be bold with materials and layout. Mixing painted and timber finishes, hiding working zones behind pocket doors, and using fluted panels or metallic elements gives each kitchen a personalised feel.

Best Moments

“However beautiful the kitchen is, if it doesn’t work for you, it just will never work.”

“A kitchen isn’t for show, it’s where life happens. It should reflect you.”

“Don’t overcrowd your kitchen. It’s not about how much you can fit in, but how well it works.”

“To Scandify your kitchen, start with natural wood, let in the light, and layer materials with intention.”

About the Sola Kitchens

Sola Kitchens is the UK’s only provider of truly bespoke Scandinavian-style kitchens, with handcrafted cabinetry made in Scandinavia and Britain. With over 20 years of experience, they are known for innovative design, premium materials, and a harmonious blend of styles.

Find Out More: https://www.solakitchens.com/

About the Host

Faye Newman is a freelance Kitchen Designer with eight years of experience in the industry. With a background in furniture design and a passion for creating spaces that reflect the essence of the home, Faye brings a unique perspective to kitchen design. Her dedication to client satisfaction and love for her craft shines through in every project she undertakes.

Connect with Faye Newman Design:

Visit: www.fayenewmandesign.com for kitchen inspiration and design resources.

Click me to join our email community for exclusive updates and tips.

Now available to watch on YouTube! Don’t forget to subscribe here and click the notification bell for visual inspiration and expert advice.

Follow us on Instagram @LoveYourKitchenPodcast for daily doses of kitchen design inspiration and behind-the-scenes glimpses.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of the Love Your Kitchen podcast, host Faye Newman delves into the world of DIY kitchen renovations. Whether you’re tackling a kitchen remodel entirely on your own, blending DIY with professional help, or just giving your existing space a refresh, this episode is packed with advice to help you manage your kitchen upgrades with confidence and creativity.

Faye provides practical guidance on planning, budgeting, and sourcing, as well as hands-on tips for painting, fitting, and even buying second-hand kitchens. Learn how to transform your space, no matter if you're working on a small kitchen or a larger project. This episode is your go-to resource for brilliant kitchen ideas and smart kitchen organisation.

Key Takeaways

Plan meticulously: Allow 3–6 months for your kitchen renovation, especially if you're a DIY beginner. Rushing can lead to costly mistakes.

Get a detailed floor plan: A professionally drawn layout is crucial to ensure your furniture fits and functions correctly in your space.

Budget for contingencies: Set aside 10–20% for unexpected costs like replacement cabinets or extra tools.

Know your limits: While DIY can save on labor costs, always hire a qualified professional for tasks involving electrics, gas, or complex plumbing.

Best Moments

“Preparation is imperative; label everything. If not, it becomes a giant jigsaw puzzle.”

“You don't need to be an expert, but you do need time to plan, research, and make informed decisions.”

“Selling your old kitchen is not only sustainable, but it might even give you a head start on funding your new one.”

About the Host

Faye Newman is a freelance kitchen designer with eight years of experience. With a background in furniture design and a passion for creating spaces that reflect the essence of the home, Faye brings a unique perspective to kitchen design. Her dedication to client satisfaction and love for her craft shines through in every project she undertakes.

Connect with Faye Newman Design:

Visit: www.fayenewmandesign.com for kitchen inspiration and design resources.

Click me to join our email community for exclusive updates and tips.

Now available to watch on YouTube! Don’t forget to subscribe here and click the notification bell for visual inspiration and expert advice.

Follow us on Instagram @LoveYourKitchenPodcast for daily doses of kitchen design inspiration and behind-the-scenes glimpses.

Whether you're renovating your kitchen, looking for organisation hacks, or seeking culinary inspiration, Love Your Kitchen is your go-to resource for all things kitchen-related.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of the Love Your Kitchen podcast, host Faye Newman continues her two-part kitchen renovation special, focusing on the essential trades you'll need beyond just the builder and kitchen fitter. Faye breaks down the roles of electricians, plumbers, gas engineers, flooring installers, and tilers, offering invaluable advice on managing a successful kitchen remodel.

She shares expert tips on timelines, planning, and communication to help you avoid common pitfalls and manage your kitchen upgrades with greater confidence. Whether you’re dreaming of a small kitchen makeover or a complete kitchen design overhaul, Faye's insights will help you navigate the complexities of your project.

Key Takeaways

Communication is vital: Ensure your builder and kitchen designer conduct proper site surveys before work begins.

Timeframes matter: Organise deliveries and installs in line with trades' availability.

Relationship building is key: Choose suppliers who communicate well and offer support.

Access checks: Don't overlook tight staircases or entrances that can complicate deliveries.

Best Moments

“It’s just forward-thinking everything as much as you can. Don’t be too hard on yourself because a kitchen remodel is stressful enough.”

“Make sure you’ve got everything written down, even if something’s been agreed over the phone.”

“The fitter might be in your house for two weeks, so it’s nice to meet them beforehand if you can.”

“Be on-site for your kitchen delivery. You’ll want to check for damages while there’s still time to act.”

About the Host

Faye Newman is a freelance kitchen designer with eight years of experience. With a background in furniture design and a passion for creating spaces that reflect the essence of the home, Faye brings a unique perspective to kitchen design. Her dedication to client satisfaction and love for her craft shines through in every project she undertakes.

Connect with Faye Newman Design:

Visit: www.fayenewmandesign.com for kitchen inspiration and design resources.

Click me to join our email community for exclusive updates and tips.

Now available to watch on YouTube! Don’t forget to subscribe here and click the notification bell for visual inspiration and expert advice.

Follow us on Instagram @LoveYourKitchenPodcast for daily doses of kitchen design inspiration and behind-the-scenes glimpses.

Whether you're renovating your kitchen, looking for organisation hacks, or seeking culinary inspiration, Love Your Kitchen is your go-to resource for all things kitchen-related.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.