A Contemporary Black and Walnut Kitchen

Gemma and Paul discovered Kitchen Design Centre on Instagram while searching for modern kitchen ideas.

After extending the back of their home to create a large open-plan space for their new kitchen, they wanted something contemporary and different from the shaker-style kitchen they had before. They weren’t interested in a gloss finish and instead sought a design that felt classy and timeless.

The couple booked an appointment with Paul Harrington at Kitchen Design Centre’s Housing Units in Failsworth. When they visited the showroom, they were impressed not only by the vast selection and quality of the displays but also by Paul himself. He stood out for his thoughtful approach—he listened to their needs and never pushed them into a decision, which they really appreciated.

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Using their architect’s plans, Paul crafted a bold design featuring matte black and natural walnut finishes. He encouraged the couple to trust his vision, explaining that such a large space deserved a strong, confident design with rich, solid colours.

“If someone had told me I’d have a black and walnut kitchen, I’d never have believed them,” says Gemma. “But I absolutely love it and am so glad we went with Paul’s suggestion.”

Paul recommended a matte black laminate worktop for the large island, selecting 25mm Perfect Sense for its sleek finish.

a-contemporary-black-and-walnut-kitchen

For contrast, the worktop on the opposite sink run was done in Glacier White Corian, paired with a full Corian splashback.

The couple also took Paul’s advice on appliances, opting for Neff, including two Flex Design Single Ovens and a Compact Oven with Microwave.

Paul also guided them on the placement of their wine cooler and helped them choose a Quooker Pro3 Flex Black tap.

Are you ready to make your dream kitchen a reality?

"He made us think outside the box, and we love the finished kitchen. His suggestions were absolutely spot on."

What Our Designer Says

"It was a pleasure working with Gemma and Paul. Being involved early with the architect’s plans allowed me to create a bold, striking design that complements the large space. I’m thrilled they trusted my vision, the finished kitchen looks incredible.
"
Paul Harrington
Paul Harrington

Paul Harrington
Failsworth, Manchester

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TRADITION MEETS MODERNITY IN OUR LIVERPOOL SHOWROOM

In our Liverpool showroom, we’ve masterfully blended the best of traditional and modern design elements to create a unique, timeless kitchen display. This space is a perfect mix of classic elegance with contemporary functionality, and the focal point is the stunning L-shaped island, which serves as both a practical workspace and a social hub. Its clever design seamlessly links into a media wall and presentation area, incorporating the essence of modern open-plan living. 

The colour scheme is a sophisticated mix of Concept130 Roma Graphite shaker cabinets paired with Montreal light fine oak handleless units and taupe trim handles. This combination offers a perfect balance between traditional craftsmanship and contemporary design, perfect if you appreciate the classics but want something a little more updated.

Standout appliances:
Neff 30cm Wine Fridge
Neff 80cm Induction Hob
Neff Single Oven
Neff Tall Integrated Fridge
Neff Dishwasher
MODERN MINIMALISM AT ITS FINEST IN OUR URMSTON SHOWROOM

Our Urmston showroom display showcases a bold, modern kitchen design that effortlessly blends both form and function. The handleless units create a streamlined, uninterrupted flow throughout the space, perfectly complemented by the ultra-matt black finish on the worktops. This pairs beautifully with the elegant black ribbed-veneered door for the focal wall. 

This minimalist design approach offers a chic, contemporary vibe, ideal if you love the clean, clutter-free aesthetic. To enhance this look, we’ve used warm accent colours that break up the monochrome palette, adding a sense of inviting depth and warmth to the overall space. The subtle, extravagant marble panels add a touch of quiet luxury, their natural veining providing visual interest and texture against the sleek black surfaces, especially when lit by warm LED lighting. This fusion of modern materials and timeless elements, such as marble, creates a display that is both stylish and practical!

Standout appliances:
Neff N90 Ovens with premium 6.8” touch screen display and Twist Pad Flex control
Neff Flex Induction Hob
Silgranit Blanco Sink
Quooker Tap
THE BARROWFORD SHOWROOM’S HARMONIOUS AND ELEGANT DISPLAY

In Barrowford, we’ve embraced a calming, earthy palette that combines functionality with elegance. The display features Hampton Ash wood doors painted in a Natural Umber shade, mixed with Scala Olive green flat doors, and completed with a mix of antique brass handles. The warm, neutral tones of the Natural Umber give this kitchen a wonderfully cosy feel, making it a welcoming space for both cooking and entertaining.

One of the key features of this display is the 30mm Vanilla Noir quartz worktop, which stands out with its dark, characterful design. The designer bench seating includes pullout storage to maximise space without sacrificing style. The bifold worktop unit and sliding doors on the island showcase smart storage solutions. Finally, the open shelves add a touch of rustic charm!

Standout appliances:
Neff Collection Oven
Neff XL Fridge Freezer
Quooker Classic Fusion Tap
Double Bowl Tartufo Sink
THE BLACKBURN SHOWROOM’S SLEEK AND MODERN MASTERPIECE

Our new Blackburn display is a testament to a modern, streamlined design. It features a bold black and oak colour scheme, seamlessly blending practicality and contemporary aesthetics. The tall units are clad in a Black Velvet Oak, adding depth and contrast to the sleek black wall units. The Toronto base units and matching worktops are finished in Natural Vintage Oak for a beautiful and cohesive end result.

One of the standout elements of this display is the quirky curved breakfast bar, a unique feature that blends functionality with style. Raised planters behind the bar add a touch of greenery; perfect if you love bringing natural elements into your kitchen.

Standout appliances:
Neff 60cm CombiZone Black Induction Hob
Integrated Design Hood
Neff Fully-integrated dishwasher
Neff Integrated Frost Free Under Counter Freezer
More from the team’s annual trip to Germany to the headquarters of Hacker Rodinghausen showroom.
Staff from all of our showrooms attended to view the new exciting ranges of kitchens and colours that are available from now. They were given a full factory tour & took part in product workshops. It was an intensive 2 x day trip however they had a fabulous time. 

Head to our stories for more details or head over to our website to book your free design appointment 

#kitchendesign #kitchenremodel #kitchenrenovation #kitchendesignideas #kitchendesigner #teambuilding
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