KC Case Study - Nikki & John
A desire for design expertise led West Yorkshire couple Nikki and John to entrust KC Design House with their dream kitchen project. Here, we discover how the results nailed their brief, enhanced the space and delivered a room they can’t get enough of.
The Brief
Having carried out extensive renovation work to their West Yorkshire property, Nikki and John found their kitchen to be somewhat lacking. It had been pulled out and refitted but didn’t work in the modified space, nor did it provide any level of functionality.
Instead, the couple craved an attractive yet practical space to enjoy as a family and entertain guests, with areas to socialise, cook and dine. “We didn’t just want to go to a company that would sell us a bunch of cupboards,” says Nikki. “We wanted someone who would really understand what we were looking for from the space and would come up with design ideas beyond what we could think of.”
The Design
Following a recommendation, Nikki and John contacted KC Design House and were invited to the showroom by managing director Richard. “He spent a lot of time listening to what we wanted and showing us the kitchen styles he thought would suit our preferences,” says Nikki. “He also came out to the property to view issues we faced - there are three doorways into the room, which makes deciding on the best layout tricky. We were totally open to ideas, so we told him to be as radical as he liked!”
Picking up on the lack of light in the East-facing room, Richard suggested changing the location of the kitchen and adding floor-to-ceiling windows where the sink was. In line with the couple’s desires and cooking habits, he also included ample storage, state-of-the-art appliances and features perfect for entertaining.
The Process
Impressed by the meticulous attention to detail, Nikki and John loved the design that Richard presented. “He really listened to us, took endless notes and made it entirely about us and how we’d use the space,” recalls Nikki. “You can’t skimp on good design. KC might have a higher price point than other companies, but their high level of design experience is what sets them apart.”
And when it came to the installation, the couple were equally impressed. “The tradesmen were great,” says Nikki. “They couldn’t have taken more care if it was their own house.”
The Results
Sophisticated, elegant and warm, Nikki and John now have a kitchen that ticks their functionality boxes and complements their lifestyle.
Keen for a timeless design that would suit the style of their house and project a homely feel, the couple chose KC’s Exclusively Made In-Frame kitchen. Its rich Farrow & Ball Green Smoke hue, teamed with bronze handles and marble worktops, gives an instant feel of luxury. At the same time, the natural wooden elements provide an organic edge, softening its appearance and adding to the room’s relaxing ambience.
The central, split-level island answers both the practical and social elements of the brief with dedicated areas to chat, cook and dine. An ‘adult drinks centre’ featuring a wine fridge and cabinets for mixers and glassware was another suggestion to enhance the kitchen’s entertainment credentials.
The lighting issue has been solved with a bespoke lighting system, including striking Tom Dixon pendants and new floor-to-ceiling windows, which now provide a viewpoint from a cosy seating area. A stunning, mirrored splashback behind the sink’s new position helps emit beams further around the room and gives sight of the garden.
“It functions so much better,” says Nikki. “Previously, we had wide, open unused spaces, and it just felt hard work. Now everything has been so well thought out that the room is a pleasure to be in - it’s even inspired me to do more cooking as everything is within easy reach.
“We spend much more time in the kitchen now and can easily find ourselves in there all evening.”
KC Client Notes
What do you love most about the kitchen design?
How well it works for both the space and for us. Every element has been carefully considered, and appliances like the Bora cooktop and Quooker tap make it so convenient.
And what reaction does it get from visitors?
Everyone is genuinely wowed by it.
What is your favourite feature of the space?
The island is generally what attracts people’s attention, and it’s a great multi-purpose area for us.
Is there anything about the space that you would change?
Not a thing!
Why would you recommend KC Design House?
For the high level of service and design and the quality of the installation and finish. If we move, I’d definitely use KC again.
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