MBK Design Studio Knowledge Centre
Because of my experience in the industry I write a regular column in the Kitchen and Bathroom News, a national trade magazine and contribute to a leading consumer online blog, The Kitchen Think, a news blog on all things kitchen, where I write articles about design and products.
Knowledge Centre
Please find below a number of articles which should answer some of your questions. We want to provide you with additional information about products and services that are available plus give you some useful tips to help you on your journey.
Four tips on Kitchen design
There is a whole catalogue of options out there when it comes to kitchen aesthetics, Pinterest boards, Instagram, twitter. A whole hoard of design ideas! Don’t feel disheartened if you’re a homeowner who is unsure about which aesthetic to use in your kitchen overhaul...
11 Subway tile alternatives
Thanks to its timeless appeal and versatility, subway tile has long been a popular option for kitchen backsplashes. Subway tiles easily match a wide range of kitchen styles and are typically available in a variety of materials and price points. Nevertheless, some...
How much does a Kitchen cost?
One of the first questions potential kitchen purchasers want to know when they contact my Company is ‘ How much does a kitchen cost? This is a very difficult question to answer however I will try my best to explain some general price guidelines. In order to get some...
10 Big Kitchen trends for 2023 onwards
From concealed breakfast stations to playful pink hues... Pink kitchens, reeded glass cabinets and freestanding furniture are some of the biggest kitchen trends for 2023/2024. As the role of the kitchen continues to evolve, bespoke designs, colour preferences and a...
7 kitchen design mistakes that are ruining your culinary setup
These common kitchen design mistakes offer food for thought if you're wondering why your cook space isn't serving you well... If you're looking to cook up a storm, avoid these kitchen design mistakes. After all, your kitchen isn't just a place to make or heat food. As...
Just imagine how easy designing your kitchen would be if you had answers for all these questions
Most people would let the designer prepare your project for you, but remember this is your house and it must suit your needs, so although the designer may have years of experience designing kitchens they have never worked in your kitchen, so with your input you can...
Where to go for your Kitchen Improvements
Today's current economic climate is making it very difficult for people to sell their homes and move up to the property ladder. Selling can be quite easy but buying not so easy. This in mind, many people are spending money to make money, and in the property market...
Buyers may be put off by your property
A report in the Daily Express in Feb 2022 said that the average price for a property in Maidstone in 2021 was £352,464 They also reported that new bathroom trends could decrease value of home and interior experts have revealed the bathroom trends which could decrease...
Kitchen Renovation or a New Kitchen Can Be Profitable Even If You’re Not Planning To Sell Your Home
Estate agents will tell you that renovating or replacing the kitchen is one of the most profitable returns on investments you can do to your home if you plan on selling. But what most people don’t know is that there are many financial benefits to renovating or...
How to buy a kitchen during a cost of living crisis
With price rises looming on everything from materials, appliances, fixtures and fittings, energy to food – now may feel like a scary time to embark on a large renovation project. In the hopes of easing your worries, I’ve asked the experts for advice on how to buy a...
Kitchen Island – Do I have enough space?
Do you have enough room for a kitchen island Do you have enough space in your kitchen without an island making you feel cramped and constricted? Kitchen Island size is important. A kitchen island is a dreamy wish list item for most of us. Who wouldn’t want a central...
Why there’s a shortage of appliances – and how to get your hands on one
One of our new blogs from the experts, Arianne of the KBB Magazine There’s a shortage of appliances right now – and you probably already know this if you’ve been renovating. Often, you’ll find that manufacturers have waiting lists that are months long and back orders...
Kitchen Design Tips
Looking to redesign your kitchen but not sure where to start? You're definitely not alone. A kitchen renovation can be a major undertaking, but it's also a great way to create a space that perfectly suits your needs and style. When it comes time to design your new...
Kitchen planning allowing for changes in circumstances
When it comes to designing your kitchen, what is your vision for the future? Do you want a space that is timeless and can be enjoyed for years to come? Or are you looking for a more contemporary design that will reflect your current lifestyle? While it's important to...
6 Ideas for Creating a Modern Kitchen in a Country Home
These contemporary cook spaces stylishly subvert the stereotypical country kitchen while still being welcoming. Another one of our series of Blogs called “Ask the Experts” and this one is by Kate Burt part of the Houzz editorial team. What do you picture when you hear...
Help in designing a Kitchen
Most people would let the designer prepare your project for you, but remember this is your house and it must suit your needs, so although the designer may have years of experience designing kitchens they have never worked in your kitchen, so with your input you can...
How to Incorporate Metallics into Your Kitchen
Another of our series of Blogs called “Ask the Experts” and this one is by Sarah Preece a Houzz contributor. Metallics are definitely having their moment. From stainless steel to copper to brass, metallic finishes have been elevated to luxe status. Metallic finishes...
Which is the best Instant Hot water tap
As the name suggests, boiling-water taps provide instant hot water without the need to switch on the kettle or boil a pan on the hob. They can be a smart and handy solution if you want to streamline your kitchen surfaces, or find using the kettle a hassle....
IF I WERE THE CUSTOMER!
My profile is that I am a 50 plus female who now works for an Independent company that up until 2 years ago I had very little knowledge of. With the knowledge I now have of the Independent Company I looked at what was my previous perception of buying from an...
What is a broken plan kitchen layout?
For many of us, our kitchen is right at the heart of our homes. With so much cooking and socialising taking place in this space, you’re bound to want to ensure it looks its best. Replacing the free flow of an open plan kitchen, a broken plan style splits up separate...
Planning a Family Kitchen? Here’s your essential checklist…….
Another of our series of Blogs called “Ask the Experts” and this one is by Amanda Pollard a Houzz contributor. Ensure your kitchen works for your whole family by including these handy additions in the design When you’re planning a kitchen, the layout, appliances and...
Working the Room – What’s popular in kitchens now…..
Another of our series of Blogs called “Ask the Experts” and this one is by Gwendolyn Purdom a Houzz contributor. Whether it’s a splash of colour in the cabinets, a champagne-brass drawer pull or a wall of open shelving, the kitchen ideas homeowners and designers are...
Kitchen Planning: New Ways to Zone a Kitchen beyond the usual Triangle
Another of our series of Blogs called “Ask the Experts” and this one is by Graeme Wilson a Houzz UK Contributor. Many designers plan kitchen layouts using the traditional ‘working triangle’ method, with the fridge, hob/oven and sink arranged in a triangle formation....
Questions you need to ask before you plan a new Kitchen
Another of our series of Blogs called “Ask the Experts” and this one is by Katie Levell a Houzz contributor. A kitchen renovation can seem daunting at the outset, simply because there are so many elements involved in getting it right. It’s not just about creating a...
Decisions to be made before buying your Kitchen
After many hours of research you have chosen the company from whom you would like to buy your kitchen from. You feel comfortable that you would be happy with the service they will supply be it supply and the installation or supply only. You will now need to re-address...
Changing the colour, changes the feel
Kitchen Case Study The Brief Our clients are a retired couple living in Kings Hill, West Malling, they had a modern house with a fairly new kitchen however they were disappointed with the quality of the kitchen and the finish of the doors. They wanted a radical change...
Do you really need a new Kitchen?
Do you feel that your kitchen just needs to be freshened up, it feels a little dated and you would like it to be more functional? So how do you go about it and is it possible? Popular press is full of adverts of companies that can transform your kitchen in a couple of...
Choosing your new Kitchen Appliances
Always choose the best kitchen appliances you can afford as named brands always add value. Brands such as Bosch, Siemens and Neff inspire confidence and reinforce your pride in your property. A good looking kitchen appliance always will enhance the space and having a...
Choosing your Kitchen Flooring
Don’t forget the floor finish it is the largest area of colour in your kitchen and so it is a very important part of the overall design. Whatever materials you use for your kitchen flooring, from vinyl sheet to natural stone ensure that it does not compete with the...
Choosing your Kitchen Worktops
The Importance of Kitchen Worktops For your work surfaces all solid surfaces will elevate the value of your kitchen. Irrespective of the style of kitchen the durability and appearance of these surfaces means that objections from prospective purchasers are rare. If you...
Four tips on Kitchen design
There is a whole catalogue of options out there when it comes to kitchen aesthetics, Pinterest boards, Instagram, twitter. A whole hoard of design ideas! Don’t feel disheartened if you’re a homeowner who is unsure about which aesthetic to use in your kitchen overhaul...
11 Subway tile alternatives
Thanks to its timeless appeal and versatility, subway tile has long been a popular option for kitchen backsplashes. Subway tiles easily match a wide range of kitchen styles and are typically available in a variety of materials and price points. Nevertheless, some...
How much does a Kitchen cost?
One of the first questions potential kitchen purchasers want to know when they contact my Company is ‘ How much does a kitchen cost? This is a very difficult question to answer however I will try my best to explain some general price guidelines. In order to get some...
10 Big Kitchen trends for 2023 onwards
From concealed breakfast stations to playful pink hues... Pink kitchens, reeded glass cabinets and freestanding furniture are some of the biggest kitchen trends for 2023/2024. As the role of the kitchen continues to evolve, bespoke designs, colour preferences and a...
7 kitchen design mistakes that are ruining your culinary setup
These common kitchen design mistakes offer food for thought if you're wondering why your cook space isn't serving you well... If you're looking to cook up a storm, avoid these kitchen design mistakes. After all, your kitchen isn't just a place to make or heat food. As...
Just imagine how easy designing your kitchen would be if you had answers for all these questions
Most people would let the designer prepare your project for you, but remember this is your house and it must suit your needs, so although the designer may have years of experience designing kitchens they have never worked in your kitchen, so with your input you can...
Where to go for your Kitchen Improvements
Today's current economic climate is making it very difficult for people to sell their homes and move up to the property ladder. Selling can be quite easy but buying not so easy. This in mind, many people are spending money to make money, and in the property market...
Buyers may be put off by your property
A report in the Daily Express in Feb 2022 said that the average price for a property in Maidstone in 2021 was £352,464 They also reported that new bathroom trends could decrease value of home and interior experts have revealed the bathroom trends which could decrease...
Kitchen Renovation or a New Kitchen Can Be Profitable Even If You’re Not Planning To Sell Your Home
Estate agents will tell you that renovating or replacing the kitchen is one of the most profitable returns on investments you can do to your home if you plan on selling. But what most people don’t know is that there are many financial benefits to renovating or...
How to buy a kitchen during a cost of living crisis
With price rises looming on everything from materials, appliances, fixtures and fittings, energy to food – now may feel like a scary time to embark on a large renovation project. In the hopes of easing your worries, I’ve asked the experts for advice on how to buy a...
Kitchen Island – Do I have enough space?
Do you have enough room for a kitchen island Do you have enough space in your kitchen without an island making you feel cramped and constricted? Kitchen Island size is important. A kitchen island is a dreamy wish list item for most of us. Who wouldn’t want a central...
Why there’s a shortage of appliances – and how to get your hands on one
One of our new blogs from the experts, Arianne of the KBB Magazine There’s a shortage of appliances right now – and you probably already know this if you’ve been renovating. Often, you’ll find that manufacturers have waiting lists that are months long and back orders...
Kitchen Design Tips
Looking to redesign your kitchen but not sure where to start? You're definitely not alone. A kitchen renovation can be a major undertaking, but it's also a great way to create a space that perfectly suits your needs and style. When it comes time to design your new...
Kitchen planning allowing for changes in circumstances
When it comes to designing your kitchen, what is your vision for the future? Do you want a space that is timeless and can be enjoyed for years to come? Or are you looking for a more contemporary design that will reflect your current lifestyle? While it's important to...
6 Ideas for Creating a Modern Kitchen in a Country Home
These contemporary cook spaces stylishly subvert the stereotypical country kitchen while still being welcoming. Another one of our series of Blogs called “Ask the Experts” and this one is by Kate Burt part of the Houzz editorial team. What do you picture when you hear...
Help in designing a Kitchen
Most people would let the designer prepare your project for you, but remember this is your house and it must suit your needs, so although the designer may have years of experience designing kitchens they have never worked in your kitchen, so with your input you can...
How to Incorporate Metallics into Your Kitchen
Another of our series of Blogs called “Ask the Experts” and this one is by Sarah Preece a Houzz contributor. Metallics are definitely having their moment. From stainless steel to copper to brass, metallic finishes have been elevated to luxe status. Metallic finishes...
Which is the best Instant Hot water tap
As the name suggests, boiling-water taps provide instant hot water without the need to switch on the kettle or boil a pan on the hob. They can be a smart and handy solution if you want to streamline your kitchen surfaces, or find using the kettle a hassle....
IF I WERE THE CUSTOMER!
My profile is that I am a 50 plus female who now works for an Independent company that up until 2 years ago I had very little knowledge of. With the knowledge I now have of the Independent Company I looked at what was my previous perception of buying from an...
What is a broken plan kitchen layout?
For many of us, our kitchen is right at the heart of our homes. With so much cooking and socialising taking place in this space, you’re bound to want to ensure it looks its best. Replacing the free flow of an open plan kitchen, a broken plan style splits up separate...
Planning a Family Kitchen? Here’s your essential checklist…….
Another of our series of Blogs called “Ask the Experts” and this one is by Amanda Pollard a Houzz contributor. Ensure your kitchen works for your whole family by including these handy additions in the design When you’re planning a kitchen, the layout, appliances and...
Working the Room – What’s popular in kitchens now…..
Another of our series of Blogs called “Ask the Experts” and this one is by Gwendolyn Purdom a Houzz contributor. Whether it’s a splash of colour in the cabinets, a champagne-brass drawer pull or a wall of open shelving, the kitchen ideas homeowners and designers are...
Kitchen Planning: New Ways to Zone a Kitchen beyond the usual Triangle
Another of our series of Blogs called “Ask the Experts” and this one is by Graeme Wilson a Houzz UK Contributor. Many designers plan kitchen layouts using the traditional ‘working triangle’ method, with the fridge, hob/oven and sink arranged in a triangle formation....
Questions you need to ask before you plan a new Kitchen
Another of our series of Blogs called “Ask the Experts” and this one is by Katie Levell a Houzz contributor. A kitchen renovation can seem daunting at the outset, simply because there are so many elements involved in getting it right. It’s not just about creating a...
Decisions to be made before buying your Kitchen
After many hours of research you have chosen the company from whom you would like to buy your kitchen from. You feel comfortable that you would be happy with the service they will supply be it supply and the installation or supply only. You will now need to re-address...
Changing the colour, changes the feel
Kitchen Case Study The Brief Our clients are a retired couple living in Kings Hill, West Malling, they had a modern house with a fairly new kitchen however they were disappointed with the quality of the kitchen and the finish of the doors. They wanted a radical change...
Do you really need a new Kitchen?
Do you feel that your kitchen just needs to be freshened up, it feels a little dated and you would like it to be more functional? So how do you go about it and is it possible? Popular press is full of adverts of companies that can transform your kitchen in a couple of...
Choosing your new Kitchen Appliances
Always choose the best kitchen appliances you can afford as named brands always add value. Brands such as Bosch, Siemens and Neff inspire confidence and reinforce your pride in your property. A good looking kitchen appliance always will enhance the space and having a...
Choosing your Kitchen Flooring
Don’t forget the floor finish it is the largest area of colour in your kitchen and so it is a very important part of the overall design. Whatever materials you use for your kitchen flooring, from vinyl sheet to natural stone ensure that it does not compete with the...
Choosing your Kitchen Worktops
The Importance of Kitchen Worktops For your work surfaces all solid surfaces will elevate the value of your kitchen. Irrespective of the style of kitchen the durability and appearance of these surfaces means that objections from prospective purchasers are rare. If you...
Four tips on Kitchen design
There is a whole catalogue of options out there when it comes to kitchen aesthetics, Pinterest boards, Instagram, twitter. A whole hoard of design ideas! Don’t feel disheartened if you’re a homeowner who is unsure about which aesthetic to use in your kitchen overhaul...
11 Subway tile alternatives
Thanks to its timeless appeal and versatility, subway tile has long been a popular option for kitchen backsplashes. Subway tiles easily match a wide range of kitchen styles and are typically available in a variety of materials and price points. Nevertheless, some...
How much does a Kitchen cost?
One of the first questions potential kitchen purchasers want to know when they contact my Company is ‘ How much does a kitchen cost? This is a very difficult question to answer however I will try my best to explain some general price guidelines. In order to get some...
10 Big Kitchen trends for 2023 onwards
From concealed breakfast stations to playful pink hues... Pink kitchens, reeded glass cabinets and freestanding furniture are some of the biggest kitchen trends for 2023/2024. As the role of the kitchen continues to evolve, bespoke designs, colour preferences and a...
7 kitchen design mistakes that are ruining your culinary setup
These common kitchen design mistakes offer food for thought if you're wondering why your cook space isn't serving you well... If you're looking to cook up a storm, avoid these kitchen design mistakes. After all, your kitchen isn't just a place to make or heat food. As...
Just imagine how easy designing your kitchen would be if you had answers for all these questions
Most people would let the designer prepare your project for you, but remember this is your house and it must suit your needs, so although the designer may have years of experience designing kitchens they have never worked in your kitchen, so with your input you can...
Where to go for your Kitchen Improvements
Today's current economic climate is making it very difficult for people to sell their homes and move up to the property ladder. Selling can be quite easy but buying not so easy. This in mind, many people are spending money to make money, and in the property market...
Buyers may be put off by your property
A report in the Daily Express in Feb 2022 said that the average price for a property in Maidstone in 2021 was £352,464 They also reported that new bathroom trends could decrease value of home and interior experts have revealed the bathroom trends which could decrease...
Kitchen Renovation or a New Kitchen Can Be Profitable Even If You’re Not Planning To Sell Your Home
Estate agents will tell you that renovating or replacing the kitchen is one of the most profitable returns on investments you can do to your home if you plan on selling. But what most people don’t know is that there are many financial benefits to renovating or...
How to buy a kitchen during a cost of living crisis
With price rises looming on everything from materials, appliances, fixtures and fittings, energy to food – now may feel like a scary time to embark on a large renovation project. In the hopes of easing your worries, I’ve asked the experts for advice on how to buy a...
Kitchen Island – Do I have enough space?
Do you have enough room for a kitchen island Do you have enough space in your kitchen without an island making you feel cramped and constricted? Kitchen Island size is important. A kitchen island is a dreamy wish list item for most of us. Who wouldn’t want a central...
Why there’s a shortage of appliances – and how to get your hands on one
One of our new blogs from the experts, Arianne of the KBB Magazine There’s a shortage of appliances right now – and you probably already know this if you’ve been renovating. Often, you’ll find that manufacturers have waiting lists that are months long and back orders...
Kitchen Design Tips
Looking to redesign your kitchen but not sure where to start? You're definitely not alone. A kitchen renovation can be a major undertaking, but it's also a great way to create a space that perfectly suits your needs and style. When it comes time to design your new...
Kitchen planning allowing for changes in circumstances
When it comes to designing your kitchen, what is your vision for the future? Do you want a space that is timeless and can be enjoyed for years to come? Or are you looking for a more contemporary design that will reflect your current lifestyle? While it's important to...
6 Ideas for Creating a Modern Kitchen in a Country Home
These contemporary cook spaces stylishly subvert the stereotypical country kitchen while still being welcoming. Another one of our series of Blogs called “Ask the Experts” and this one is by Kate Burt part of the Houzz editorial team. What do you picture when you hear...
Help in designing a Kitchen
Most people would let the designer prepare your project for you, but remember this is your house and it must suit your needs, so although the designer may have years of experience designing kitchens they have never worked in your kitchen, so with your input you can...
How to Incorporate Metallics into Your Kitchen
Another of our series of Blogs called “Ask the Experts” and this one is by Sarah Preece a Houzz contributor. Metallics are definitely having their moment. From stainless steel to copper to brass, metallic finishes have been elevated to luxe status. Metallic finishes...
Which is the best Instant Hot water tap
As the name suggests, boiling-water taps provide instant hot water without the need to switch on the kettle or boil a pan on the hob. They can be a smart and handy solution if you want to streamline your kitchen surfaces, or find using the kettle a hassle....
IF I WERE THE CUSTOMER!
My profile is that I am a 50 plus female who now works for an Independent company that up until 2 years ago I had very little knowledge of. With the knowledge I now have of the Independent Company I looked at what was my previous perception of buying from an...
What is a broken plan kitchen layout?
For many of us, our kitchen is right at the heart of our homes. With so much cooking and socialising taking place in this space, you’re bound to want to ensure it looks its best. Replacing the free flow of an open plan kitchen, a broken plan style splits up separate...
Planning a Family Kitchen? Here’s your essential checklist…….
Another of our series of Blogs called “Ask the Experts” and this one is by Amanda Pollard a Houzz contributor. Ensure your kitchen works for your whole family by including these handy additions in the design When you’re planning a kitchen, the layout, appliances and...
Working the Room – What’s popular in kitchens now…..
Another of our series of Blogs called “Ask the Experts” and this one is by Gwendolyn Purdom a Houzz contributor. Whether it’s a splash of colour in the cabinets, a champagne-brass drawer pull or a wall of open shelving, the kitchen ideas homeowners and designers are...
Kitchen Planning: New Ways to Zone a Kitchen beyond the usual Triangle
Another of our series of Blogs called “Ask the Experts” and this one is by Graeme Wilson a Houzz UK Contributor. Many designers plan kitchen layouts using the traditional ‘working triangle’ method, with the fridge, hob/oven and sink arranged in a triangle formation....
Questions you need to ask before you plan a new Kitchen
Another of our series of Blogs called “Ask the Experts” and this one is by Katie Levell a Houzz contributor. A kitchen renovation can seem daunting at the outset, simply because there are so many elements involved in getting it right. It’s not just about creating a...
Decisions to be made before buying your Kitchen
After many hours of research you have chosen the company from whom you would like to buy your kitchen from. You feel comfortable that you would be happy with the service they will supply be it supply and the installation or supply only. You will now need to re-address...
Changing the colour, changes the feel
Kitchen Case Study The Brief Our clients are a retired couple living in Kings Hill, West Malling, they had a modern house with a fairly new kitchen however they were disappointed with the quality of the kitchen and the finish of the doors. They wanted a radical change...
Do you really need a new Kitchen?
Do you feel that your kitchen just needs to be freshened up, it feels a little dated and you would like it to be more functional? So how do you go about it and is it possible? Popular press is full of adverts of companies that can transform your kitchen in a couple of...
Choosing your new Kitchen Appliances
Always choose the best kitchen appliances you can afford as named brands always add value. Brands such as Bosch, Siemens and Neff inspire confidence and reinforce your pride in your property. A good looking kitchen appliance always will enhance the space and having a...
Choosing your Kitchen Flooring
Don’t forget the floor finish it is the largest area of colour in your kitchen and so it is a very important part of the overall design. Whatever materials you use for your kitchen flooring, from vinyl sheet to natural stone ensure that it does not compete with the...
Choosing your Kitchen Worktops
The Importance of Kitchen Worktops For your work surfaces all solid surfaces will elevate the value of your kitchen. Irrespective of the style of kitchen the durability and appearance of these surfaces means that objections from prospective purchasers are rare. If you...