Q&A with Ella Austin Kitchens – A Real Stories Campaign Winner

In this blog, we had the pleasure of speaking with Steve Collinson from Ella Austin Kitchens, an independent business that focuses on the design, manufacturing, and installation of luxury bespoke kitchens in Farnham, Surrey. As one of our esteemed winners for Real Stories 2024, we were eager to learn what motivated them to participate and how they approached the creation of a winning project.

What inspired you to enter the Real Stories Competition?

Our inspiration to enter the Real Stories Competition comes from a deep desire to showcase the full potential of our completed projects and demonstrate the versatility of STORI’s dedicated door ranges to homeowners. In an industry often dominated by CGI imagery, we believe it’s essential to present authentic visuals that reflect our craftsmanship and the real-life applications of our designs. By using high-quality images from our actual installations, we aim to provide a clearer understanding of what clients can achieve with our kitchens. The Real Stories campaign serves as an exceptional platform for us to highlight our work, connect with customers, and tell the genuine stories behind each project, reinforcing our commitment to quality and transparency in our designs.

Can you tell us about the vision behind this project?

The vision behind this project stemmed from the need to transform a cramped and impractical kitchen space into a functional and inviting environment for a young family. Recognising the limitations of their original layout, they made the thoughtful decision to add a modest extension, which would allow for the creation of an open-plan kitchen and living area. This redesign not only provides the family with a more spacious and modern kitchen that caters to their daily needs but also fosters a sense of connection and togetherness, enabling them to enjoy family gatherings and everyday activities in a more comfortable and aesthetically pleasing setting. The goal was to merge functionality with style, resulting in a space that truly enhances their lifestyle.

What drew you to the Belgravia range from the STORI collection?

What attracted us to the Belgravia range from the STORI collection was the client’s desire for a classic and timeless aesthetic for their new kitchen. The existing kitchen featured a super modern white gloss handleless design, which unfortunately didn’t align with the family’s personal style or preferences. The Belgravia range perfectly embodies the elegance and sophistication they were seeking, with its traditional yet refined elements that evoke a sense of warmth and character. This choice not only caters to their vision of a more inviting and enduring space but also allows them to create a kitchen that feels harmonious with the rest of their home, ultimately reflecting their taste and lifestyle.

How did you approach designing this kitchen to meet the homeowner’s needs?

To effectively design the kitchen to meet the homeowner’s needs, we approached the layout with a focus on both functionality and style. The centrepiece of the kitchen is a striking Lacanche range cooker, which serves as a statement piece while being flanked by practical storage solutions on either side, ensuring that everything is easily accessible. We placed the sink on the central island, which not only enhances workflow but also incorporates additional storage solutions and appliances for maximum efficiency. For the bulk of the kitchen storage, we designed a tall cabinetry run that houses a freestanding fridge freezer alongside two feature larder cupboards and a dedicated utility storage cupboard, providing ample space for organisation. To create a cohesive look throughout the home, we also designed and built a separate bootroom area in the same aesthetic, ensuring that the kitchen and bootroom complement each other beautifully while meeting the family’s practical needs.

How did you incorporate the unique features of the STORI collection into this design?

Incorporating the distinctive features of the STORI collection into this design was a key focus, and we achieved this by using framed shaker end panels throughout the kitchen, which add depth and a classic touch that enhances the overall aesthetic. These panels not only contribute to the visual appeal but also provide a sense of craftsmanship and quality that defines the collection. Additionally, we opted for glazed wall cabinets to elegantly display the homeowner’s glassware, striking a perfect balance between functionality and decoration. This choice not only showcases their beautiful collection but also allows natural light to filter through, creating an inviting atmosphere in the space. By integrating these unique elements, we ensured that the kitchen reflects the character of the STORI collection while also meeting the homeowner’s desire for a stylish and personalised environment.

What part of this project are you most proud of?

What I am most proud of in this project is the successful creation of three separate yet harmoniously integrated zones that work together to enhance the overall space, resulting in a beautifully designed open-plan living area. Each zone is thoughtfully defined to serve a specific purpose, yet they seamlessly blend with one another to foster a sense of flow and connection throughout the home. This design approach not only maximises functionality but also promotes an inviting atmosphere where family members can enjoy various activities while still feeling cohesive. The ability to create distinct areas for cooking, dining, and relaxation, all within an interconnected environment, reflects our commitment to designing spaces that enhance the lifestyle of the homeowners, creating a warm and welcoming hub for family gatherings and everyday living.

What do you think sets the STORI collection apart from other kitchen ranges?

What truly sets the STORI collection apart from other kitchen ranges is its remarkable ability to offer endless design possibilities while still being mindful of budget constraints. This unique combination allows homeowners to explore a wide range of styles, colours, and configurations without compromising on quality or aesthetics. With the STORI collection, clients can achieve their dream kitchen, tailored to their specific needs and tastes, all without the financial burden typically associated with high-end designs. This flexibility not only empowers clients to create personalised spaces that reflect their individuality but also ensures that they receive exceptional value for their investment. Ultimately, it’s this balance of creativity and affordability that distinguishes the STORI collection from its competitors, making it an appealing choice for a diverse range of homeowners.

What does being a 2024 Real Stori Winner mean to you, and what benefits do you see coming from this achievement?

Being named a 2024 Real STORI Winner is incredibly meaningful for us, particularly as it marks our second consecutive year achieving this award. We take great pride in this recognition, which not only validates our hard work and dedication to creating exceptional kitchen designs but also enhances our reputation within the industry. Displaying our framed designs prominently in our showroom serves as a source of inspiration for both our team and our clients, showcasing the quality and creativity that we strive to embody in every project. This achievement is more than just an accolade; it strengthens our commitment to excellence and motivates us to continue pushing the boundaries of design. Additionally, we anticipate that this recognition will open new doors and opportunities for collaboration, ultimately allowing us to reach a wider audience and help even more homeowners realise their dream kitchens.

If you are currently a member of the STORI Partner Programme and would like to enter our next Real Stories competition, please submit your Real Stories to marketing@uform.co.uk or alternatively, send us your projects via our Business WhatsApp, details of which can be provided upon request.

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