When Tracy and Simon first decided to redesign their kitchen, they centred their vision for their dream kitchen on one overarching idea: “Mainly, we wanted an open plan, family space.” said Tracy. “A place where we could hang out, basically. We wanted a bit more storage, too!”
It’s exactly these sorts of family-centric spaces that Kitchen Design Centre’s designers absolutely excel at, and this quickly became clear to Tracy and her husband Simon when they met Simon Thomas, an experienced and talented designer based at their nearest local showroom. As the couple were still fleshing out their ideas for their dream kitchen, this allowed Simon a lot of creative freedom to make further suggestions, which included a spacious and high-tech Gaggenau fridge freezer. “Simon just made us feel comfortable.” Tracy explained. “Plus, we really liked his ideas!”
Simon designed this modern German kitchen to have a strong symmetrical element, which has become one of the defining aspects of the design. As part of this symmetry, Simon specifically designed a larder unit to match the Gaggenau fridge and freezer door. This larder makes use of a passive infrared sensor-activated light system, and provides extra pantry-style storage for quick and easy tidying between meals. Further storage is also provided by a set of floating midi units and drawers mounted onto the wall, fulfilling a key requirement for Tracy and Simon.
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A sizeable kitchen island was high up on the list of the couple’s requirements when they presented their initial brief to Simon. They planned for this island to be central to their family-centric dream kitchen, acting as a place they could all gather for meals. Simon rose to the task by using his design expertise to create a kitchen island that faces outward into the room – this way, no one in the kitchen has to have their backs to each other as they enjoy each others’ company, enabling them to easily spend quality time together without having to twist and turn to maintain conversation.
Both the island’s work surface and the adjoining breakfast bar (which has been built to Tracey and Simon’s exact specifications) are made from a single, specially fabricated piece of Corian. As a true demonstration of Corian’s versatility, the island’s worktops continue over its edges and right down to the floor, forming a single, seamless piece without than any visible joints or end panels, giving the island a fabulously clean aesthetic. Meanwhile, it also offers increased storage in the form of ‘touch-to-open’ doors to the floor which fit in beautifully with the kitchen’s modern, handleless design.
Finished Kitchen
When it came to appliances, the couple wanted lots of oven space so they’d have plenty of capacity to cook delicious meals for their family, as well as two dishwashers that were capable of keeping up with the demand. Simon suggested two dishwashers from industry-leading supplier Neff. They make up just a few of the high-tech appliances in the finished kitchen, many of which have also been recommended by Simon personally. These include a Neff oven, steam oven, and a Neff combi microwave and plate warmer, while a Neff Flex Induction Hob allows for increased efficiency when cooking, using an electromagnetic circuit to ensure that it’s only ever using as much power as it needs. Above them all, a Faber Heaven extractor channels away any unwanted cooking smells between meals.
“They’re all fantastic.” said Tracy, who picked out the Gaggenau fridge and induction hob as two particular favourites. “It’s the first time I’ve ever used induction cooking, and I love it. The transition has just been seamless.”
The kitchen’s colour scheme has also been recommended by Simon, who was careful to ensure that it fit the overall style of the kitchen. Tracy and Simon loved the colour mix, and the finished kitchen is now resplendent in a matte finish of Basalt Grey and White, with the worktops in a 60mm Glacier White with a 100mm Glacier White Bar that complements the kitchen’s clean, straight lines and modern aesthetic. “Oh, it’s stunning. Absolutely beautiful. Simon was very open with ideas, and he had solutions to every requirement we had.” said Tracy cheerfully. “We couldn’t be happier with it.”
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"Our kitchen does exactly what it says on the tin and we are really over the moon with Simon and Kitchen Design Centre. To be honest, there’s very little more I can say!"
"It was a pleasure to be able to work so closely with Tracy and Simon on creating their ideal kitchen. It was fantastic to see the way the design gradually evolved over time, developing a practical and functional feel that’s very evident in the finished design. Finally, the symmetrical aspect to it gives the kitchen an intriguing extra dimension. "Simon Thomas
Simon Thomas
Barrowford
Introducing Beth Ainsworth to our Blackburn showroom. Beth brings fresh ideas and plenty of enthusiasm to kitchen design. Off the clock, I’m most likely in the gym.
We’re passionate about tailoring our designs to fit your lifestyle, so whether you want a space to entertain or a family-centric kitchen to spend quality time together, our designers know exactly how to make your dream kitchen a reality.
When you book an appointment, you’ll be introduced to your personal kitchen designer, who will sit down with you in our dedicated meeting space to discuss what you want for your dream kitchen. Then, when you’re happy with the final design, they’ll become your dedicated project manager as they oversee every aspect of the installation, guaranteeing exceptional customer service as we deliver the kitchen of your dreams.
Our Summer Sale is officially ON! ✨
If you’ve been dreaming about a new kitchen, there’s never been a better time to make it happen. From timeless designs to modern family spaces, now is the perfect opportunity to save on the kitchen you’ve always wanted.
Visit our showroom or link in bio to get in touch to find out more.
AS SEEN ON GEORGE CLARKE’S BEAUTIFUL BUILDS: FROM DATED LAYOUT TO DREAM ENTERTAINING SPACE
When Katherine and Andrew purchased their property, they always knew a full renovation would follow.
With both the outdated kitchen and untouched garden requiring significant transformation, the project soon became part of Channel 4’s George Clarke’s Beautiful Builds – it was an opportunity they felt perfectly aligned with their vision for the property.
While searching for a local kitchen specialist, Kitchen Design Centre immediately stood out thanks to its long-standing reputation, glowing customer reviews and welcoming showroom experience.
The brief focused on creating a sleek, contemporary kitchen that would feel open, social and highly functional, while complementing the wider architectural renovation of the home.
The finished design delivers a beautifully balanced space that combines clean lines with luxurious detailing.
One of the standout features is the striking worktop design. The waterfall edge peninsula creates a bold focal point within the room, while the continuation of the material across the side panels introduces a seamless, premium aesthetic.
Functionality was equally important throughout the design process, with carefully considered storage solutions and high-quality appliances helping to simplify everyday living. Among Katherine and Andrew’s favourite additions is the Neff oven, praised for both its versatility and pyrolytic self-cleaning function.
The completed result is a sophisticated contemporary space that completely transforms how the home looks, feels, and functions, perfectly reflecting Katherine and Andrew’s original vision from the moment they moved in.
More details in our bio
SUMMER JUST GOT EVEN BETTER FOR YOUR DREAM KITCHEN!
You don’t have to keep waiting for your dream kitchen. With flexible finance options on kitchens over £20,000, it’s ready when you are. Spread the cost of your kitchen plans and move forward in a way that works for you this summer.
With our exclusive Quooker offer, when you purchase any Quooker Tap and Tank system with a kitchen over £20,000, you’ll receive a FREE Quooker CUBE worth £1,250, plus free installation worth up to £384, and 4 free CO₂ cylinders worth £70. It’s everything you need to enjoy chilled, filtered, sparkling and boiling water straight from your tap.
And when you step into our showrooms, there are even more opportunities waiting for you, including exclusive savings on selected ex-display kitchens and up to 50% off selected stock appliances. Don’t miss this rare chance to secure something special, with design and value combined.
That said, like all great things, these summer offers are only available for a limited time — once they’re gone, they’re gone!
The kitchen isn’t just a place to cook — it’s the heart of the home.
At our Kitchen Design Centre, we believe your kitchen should be the centrepiece of your house, where style meets functionality and every moment matters. From morning coffees to family dinners and everything in between, your kitchen is where life happens.
That’s why we design spaces that bring people together — beautiful, practical, and tailored to you. Whether you’re dreaming of a sleek modern look or a warm, classic feel, we’re here to help you create a kitchen that truly feels like home.
Visit us today and start designing the heart of your home.
Book A Free Design Appointment
