Following a successful weekend exhibiting at the Harrogate Homebuilding and Renovation Show, KC’s managing director, Richard Jewkes, talks through the design team’s key takeaways and exhibition highlights.
Tell us about the kitchen display you designed for the show…
RJ: It was a true, interior-led room set that brought a realistic kitchen to the heart of the Harrogate Convention Centre, where the exhibition took place.
The kitchen is a new KC Exclusive range that we have designed and developed over a period of time, but the event gave the range its first big reveal as we’ve not previously displayed it anywhere.
It is a timeless, flat timber door design with a paint finish. For the show, we wanted to give the design a luxurious and calm yet moody look, which was achieved through the chosen materials, colours and finishes.
Green is the new grey, so we chose a natural, mid-tone that was complemented by the black effect wood panels and leathered granite worktops.
As with all our kitchens, the room set was designed with lifestyle and practicality in mind. We created zones for cooking, dining and entertaining, including a large island with an integrated table and a signature KC cocktail bar.
What reaction did the display receive?
RJ: The room set was admired by visitors, industry peers and show organisers alike. They were literally stopped in their tracks by the display’s beautiful appearance and tactile nature, with people physically stroking the natural granite surfaces to appreciate the quality.
The cocktail bar was a notable talking point, giving the design real wow-worthy impact and helping to inspire the visions and ambitions of homeowners, developers and architects.
We also really valued the praise we received from fellow trades, as they pay particular attention to the quality of the design and workmanship of our handmade kitchens, making the show a very humbling experience.
Were there any recurring topics of conversation with visitors to the KC stand?
RJ: We wanted to ensure the display scheme would reflect how KC’s capabilities and approach are completely different to those of others. I’m pleased to say this is something we accomplished, as visitors were interested in discovering more about how we work and what we can achieve whilst sharing details of their projects and ambitions.
Our company name says it all…we’re a design house, not a sales outlet. You can’t come to our premises and buy some kitchen cupboards to take away with you. Each kitchen is designed to suit the client’s individual needs and wishes and is made to fit and suit the individual property and space.
Can you share more details about the approach that sets KC apart?
RJ: We’re a team of interior designers with a strong architectural understanding and a unique way of designing. We also operate our West Yorkshire Design House by appointment only to ensure clients benefit from the undivided time and attention they deserve.
Every detail is discussed to acquire a really clear, meaningful insight into the space and how the client wants to use it. Through our questioning, knowledge and professionalism, we tease the brief out of people and strengthen what they have in mind to make sure it really works for them. We also suggest alternatives to enhance their vision and better fit their lifestyle.
Then we go to the design board with all the information we’ve gathered and apply our design principles and interior flair to create something that often goes beyond what they thought possible.
We design kitchens starting from £35,000, but no matter the budget, our passion and intentions remain the same: to deliver value for money and provide the best solution for the individual client and space. That means offering genuine, heartfelt advice, tapping into thoughts, teasing briefs and giving options are always part of the process.
What was your overall experience of the show?
RJ: It was a really successful, busy show, and I was delighted with the KC team’s efforts. It was great to meet so many homeowners, builders, renovators, and industry peers.
We had three bustling days showcasing our innovative KC Exclusive kitchen display, chatting about our personal design approach and hearing about so many great home projects and ambitions.
Thank you so much to all who stopped by!
Finally, what are the next steps for those interested in discussing their project in more detail with the KC team?
RJ: We’ll be following up with those who spoke to us on the stand and left their details with us. Meanwhile, if you didn’t get a chance to speak to us or visit the stand but feel ready to discuss your project, please get in touch with the design team by calling 01484 868269 or emailing designteam@kcdesignhouse.co.uk.