Love Your Kitchen

In this episode of Love Your Kitchen, host Faye Newman chats with Christine Campbell from Ginger Interiors about “dressing” your space and how to move from the build phase of a kitchen Renovation into the styling layer with confidence. They cover decision fatigue, lighting that actually flatters the room, texture and colour, and clever ways to make even a small kitchen feel warm, organised and ready for everyday cooking and entertaining.

Key Takeaways

Texture wins over clinical. Balance hard surfaces (tiles, stone, metal) with rugs, upholstered stools, wood boards, ceramics, greenery and candles to soft...

In this episode of Love Your Kitchen, host Faye Newman records live from the Grand Designs Live Kitchen Theatre at the NEC and tackles the ever-popular topic “Budget vs Dream.” Joined by designer Luke Wedgbury and finance specialist Tom McSherry (BuildStore), the panel unpacks how to balance aspirations with realistic numbers across a kitchen renovation or wider home project, covering budgets, funding options, transparency with your team, staged works, warranties, VAT on self-builds, and where it pays to invest for the long term.

Key Takeaways

Start with budget, design with intent. Share an honest figu...

In this episode of Love Your Kitchen, host Faye Newman visits the Miele Experience Centre Mayfair​ to speak to the store manager, Gary Tiernan, who helps her explore Miele’s luxury kitchen appliances. The conversation centres on the importance of quality, longevity, and sustainability when investing in kitchen appliances, and how brands like Miele deliver exceptional performance without compromising on design.

Bonus Cooking Demo!

A special cooking demonstration has also been launched! This is where you can see the cooking in action and get top tips from Miele's top culinary chef, Cesar Fernandez. Click here...

In this episode of Love Your Kitchen, host Faye Newman shares five essential, real-world upgrades that make busy homes run more smoothly, whether you’re planning a full kitchen renovation or remodelling a well-loved space. The focus is on durable materials, time-saving tech, safer surfaces, and smart kitchen organisation that supports everyday cooking.

Key Takeaways

Pick doors that can take a beating. Foil-wrapped five-piece shaker doors and laminate “cut & edge” slabs shrug off scuffs, while anti-fingerprint finishes are a lifesaver on handleless designs. If you love painted timber, insist on a colour-matched primer so chips...

In this episode of Love Your Kitchen, host Faye Newman records live at Grand Designs Live (Birmingham) with designer Luke Wedgberry (Founder & CEO Coalville Kitchens ltd, owner Kutchenhaus Lutterworth, KBSA board member) to unpack how to plan kitchen flow for the modern home. Together, they show how thoughtful kitchen design, from layout and zoning to appliance placement, creates spaces that look great and work brilliantly for everyday cooking, entertaining, families, pets, and future needs.

Key Takeaways

Start with a discovery session. Before any kitchen renovation or kitchen remodel, map real life: who uses the...

In this episode of Love Your Kitchen, host Faye Newman shares six red flags to watch for before you commit to a kitchen renovation so your kitchen design works beautifully in daily life, not just on paper. She explains why function must lead form, how to spot technical gotchas (clearances, servicing, ventilation), and what “good” looks like in pricing transparency and designer collaboration.

Key Takeaways

Function before fashion. If a proposal focuses on style over workflow, walk away. Zoning (prep, cooking, cleaning), sensible worktop runs, and logical appliance positioning beat trends every time, especially in a...

In this episode of Love Your Kitchen, host Faye Newman tours Olive & Barr’s “Barn” showroom in Tenbury Wells to unpack a London-townhouse-inspired scheme. She explores how period details (tall skirtings, dado rail, coving) pair with a bold, colour-drenched palette, Farrow & Ball Pitch Black across cabinetry, walls and ceiling, balanced by bottle-green metro tiles, a fluted Belfast sink, and a brass-topped “baguette table.” It’s a masterclass in timeless kitchen design that still feels modern, with smart choices you can borrow for a kitchen renovation or kitchen remodel of any size.

Key Takeaways

Colour drenching ca...

In this episode of Love Your Kitchen, host Faye Newman chats with homeowners Sarah and Phil to reflect on their kitchen renovation two years on. This honest, real-life kitchen remodel covers design choices, delays, and how the space has reshaped daily cooking and family life. Expect practical kitchen ideas on zoning with an island, an appliance-hiding breakfast unit, a utility overhaul, and clever ways to manage light and storage.

Key Takeaways

Flow first in kitchen design. A compact working triangle (fridge–sink–hob/ovens) plus a generous island gives landing space for prep and serv...

In this episode of Love Your Kitchen, host Faye Newman dives into designing the perfect kitchen dresser and how to balance practicality and style so it truly serves your life. She shares kitchen ideas for positioning, sizing and detailing dressers within wider kitchen design plans, whether you’re mid kitchen renovation or simply planning specific kitchen upgrades. 

Expect tips for small kitchen layouts, kitchen organisation, door mechanisms (hinged, bi-fold, pocket), lighting, materials, and even playful options for bar and breakfast stations that support everyday cooking and a more smart kitchen feel.

Key Takeaways

In this episode of Love Your Kitchen, host Faye Newman shares practical Kitchen Ideas on tailoring your Kitchen Design to how you actually live, whether you’re an avid cook or more of a social butterfly, so your next Kitchen Renovation or Kitchen Remodel works beautifully day-to-day. Expect tips for Small Kitchen planning, Kitchen Organisation, clever Kitchen Upgrades, and even touches for a Smart Kitchen.

Key Takeaways

Give yourself proper worktop space. Prioritise long, uninterrupted prep surfaces near the hob for staging ingredients, chopping, and plating; measure what you have now and design from th...

In this episode of Love Your Kitchen, host Faye Newman visits the Wigmore Street showroom of Sola Kitchens to speak with founder Sofia Bune Strandh. Together, they delve into the essence of Scandinavian kitchen design, exploring how beauty, practicality and personality blend in this award-winning kitchen brand.

Sofia shares her journey from solicitor to kitchen designer, revealing how a passion for cooking, interior aesthetics, and problem-solving led to the creation of Sola Kitchens. The conversation covers the fundamentals of kitchen renovation and the timeless principles behind Scandinavian kitchen design, from functional layouts and natural materials to...

In this episode of the Love Your Kitchen podcast, host Faye Newman delves into the world of DIY kitchen renovations. Whether you’re tackling a kitchen remodel entirely on your own, blending DIY with professional help, or just giving your existing space a refresh, this episode is packed with advice to help you manage your kitchen upgrades with confidence and creativity.

Faye provides practical guidance on planning, budgeting, and sourcing, as well as hands-on tips for painting, fitting, and even buying second-hand kitchens. Learn how to transform your space, no matter if you're working on a sm...

In this episode of the Love Your Kitchen podcast, host Faye Newman continues her two-part kitchen renovation special, focusing on the essential trades you'll need beyond just the builder and kitchen fitter. Faye breaks down the roles of electricians, plumbers, gas engineers, flooring installers, and tilers, offering invaluable advice on managing a successful kitchen remodel.

She shares expert tips on timelines, planning, and communication to help you avoid common pitfalls and manage your kitchen upgrades with greater confidence. Whether you’re dreaming of a small kitchen makeover or a complete kitchen design overhaul, Faye's insights will he...

In this episode of Love Your Kitchen, host Faye Newman dives into the often-overlooked complexities of kitchen renovations in Part 1 of a two-part special, focusing on navigating structural changes and understanding what builders and fitters need to know from you. From knocking down walls to rerouting plumbing and handling window placements, Faye offers a wealth of advice on planning and reducing stress throughout your renovation. 

Key Takeaways

Structural changes like removing load-bearing walls, chimney breasts, or supporting pillars often require a structural engineer and careful design integration, especially when working around steel beams or c...

In this episode of Love Your Kitchen, host Faye Newman takes us to the Blum headquarters in Milton Keynes to compare two kitchen displays occupying the exact same space but designed very differently. The first kitchen features a more traditional L-shape setup, complete with 17 standard cabinets, while the second is a streamlined, ergonomic design with just 9 well-considered, functional units. Faye breaks down the cost, usability, and design value of each, highlighting how smart planning and quality components can elevate even a modest kitchen.

Key Takeaways

The first kitchen features 17 conventional cabinets, but many are...

In this episode of Love Your Kitchen, host Faye Newman shares a detailed walkthrough of a recent kitchen transformation in the West Midlands. The project focused on balancing storage, flow, and budget within an unusually shaped room featuring a challenging structural pillar. Faye explains how they overcame layout complications, introduced timeless Shaker styling, and incorporated clever solutions like a concealed coffee station and a multi-functional peninsula.

Key Takeaways

A structural pillar and uneven floor levels made the original kitchen feel awkward. The new design reimagined the space by repositioning elements like the peninsula and...

In this episode of Love Your Kitchen, host Faye Newman chats with Ashley Stanley, Co-Director of L’interieur, an independent kitchen company based in Little Aston, Sutton Coldfield. Together, they explore the unique advantages of working with an independent kitchen specialist, the latest innovations in NEFF appliances, and two inspirational kitchen projects: one a classic in-frame design and the other a sleek, true handleless kitchen. Ashley shares expert insight into design challenges, material choices, and how personal lifestyle plays a vital role in shaping the perfect kitchen.

Key Takeaways

Independent kitchen specialists offer flexibility, pe...

In this episode of Love Your Kitchen, host Faye Newman shares the most common mistakes to avoid when designing a new kitchen. Faye draws on her experience to highlight design pitfalls such as overcrowding with unnecessary cabinetry, poor appliance positioning, and not considering door swings or work surface space. She offers practical solutions and advice to help listeners future-proof their kitchen layouts, ensuring functionality, comfort, and personal style remain at the heart of their design.

Key Takeaways

Filling every wall with cabinetry can lead to a cluttered and impractical layout. Choose cabinets based on...

In this episode of Love Your Kitchen, host Faye Newman explores the ins and outs of handleless kitchen design. Recorded at Elgar Kitchens in Worcestershire, Faye shares examples and expert advice on the different types of handleless kitchens, from J-pull doors and rail systems to push-to-open and integrated handles. She also covers practical tips on layout, symmetry, and how to achieve a seamless, functional and stylish result.

Key Takeaways

Understand your options. There are several styles of handleless kitchens, including J-pull, rail systems (true handleless), push-to-open, integrated handles, and trim handles. Each offers a...

In this episode of Love Your Kitchen, host Faye Newman visits the Wood & Wire showroom in Hebden Bridge and speaks with co-founder Jim Leach. Together they explore the creative possibilities of handmade kitchens, rooted in a design-led, bespoke approach. Jim shares how Wood & Wire blends craftsmanship, personality, and practicality, challenging the idea that kitchens should follow fixed rules. 

Key Takeaways

At Wood & Wire, there are no templates; every kitchen is designed from scratch with the client, making it possible to create spaces that feel genuinely personal and highly functional.

Using plywood a...

In this episode of Love Your Kitchen, host Faye Newman shares her expertise on what makes the perfect kitchen. Drawing on her years of experience in kitchen design, Faye offers practical advice for anyone planning a new kitchen, whether it’s your forever home or a stepping stone. She covers everything from design considerations to functionality and how to prioritise your budget for long-term satisfaction.

Key Takeaways

Start by defining what perfect means to you. Every household is different, so understanding how you live and cook is key to shaping a kitchen that truly fi...

In this episode of Love Your Kitchen, host Faye Newman sits down with returning guest Ross Williamson, Sales Director at The Surface Collection, to explore the latest innovations in quartz worktops, particularly the striking and design-led Verdara range. This episode delves into the aesthetic and practical considerations behind choosing the right worktop, from backlit splashbacks to bold marble-effect slabs. Together, Faye and Ross highlight the evolution of quartz design, how to spot quality, and the importance of professional fabrication.

Key Takeaways

Quartz is evolving beyond plain colours, with the Verdara range offering depth, texture...

In this episode of Love Your Kitchen, host Faye Newman visits the Clay & Rock showroom in Fulham and chats with Jamie Moakes, the store manager. Together, they explore the vast and creative world of tiles, from wall and floor solutions to choosing the right materials for practicality and style. With Clay & Rock’s strong design-led philosophy and manufacturing expertise, Jamie and Faye discuss how to navigate tile selection confidently, whether you're embarking on a full kitchen renovation or just looking to refresh a space.

Key Takeaways

Tiles are an excellent way to inject character in...

In this episode of Love Your Kitchen, host Faye Newman takes us through the design story of a beautifully reimagined Shaker-style kitchen in Birmingham. Without knocking down walls or building extensions, Faye transformed a dated layout into a functional, stylish space suited for a couple who love to entertain. She explains how reconfiguration, clever storage, and thoughtful details, from high-sided drawers to a sleek breakfast station, turned this refurbishment into a harmonious blend of tradition and modern practicality.

Key Takeaways

Refurbishment Over Renovation: No major building work was required, just smart reconfiguration to improve...

In this episode of Love Your Kitchen, host Faye Newman chats with Luke Thomas, Design Director at the award-winning John Cullen Lighting. With over 17 years of experience in architectural lighting, Luke brings a wealth of knowledge on how to effectively design lighting for multifunctional kitchen spaces. From layering light and managing colour temperature to ensuring lighting complements materials and layout, this episode shines a light on how to create kitchens that are both functional and visually stunning.

Key Takeaways

Lighting as Theatre: Luke explains how lighting should enhance the overall ambience, highlighting what you...

In this episode of Love Your Kitchen, host Faye Newman takes us on a journey through the design and functionality of kitchen mantels. From their classic use to hide extractor fans to more modern, stylish variations, Faye breaks down how kitchen mantels can make a bold statement in your space. She covers various mantel styles, the materials that work best, and how to incorporate them seamlessly into your kitchen, whether you're going for a traditional, contemporary, or even fusion look.

Key Takeaways

Functional Design: Kitchen mantels are perfect for hiding extractor fans and ducting...

Host Faye Newman chats with Anna Møller, founder of Anna Møller Design, about her unique approach to interior and architectural design. Anna shares her passion for holistic design, focusing on using natural materials and considering the entire space's functionality and feel. From her Danish heritage to creating timeless kitchen designs, Anna discusses how to incorporate raw materials and thoughtful design to make a kitchen feel more like a comfortable, functional living space.

Key Takeaways

Holistic Design: Anna explains how a holistic approach to design considers everything from the client's daily routines to th...

In this episode of Love Your Kitchen, Faye Newman sits down with Stephen, the founder of Masterplank, a bespoke furniture company based in Shropshire. They dive into the world of handcrafted, customisable furniture, with Stephen sharing his journey from military service to creating high-quality, made-to-order pieces. 

Key Takeaways

Mastering Customisation: Masterplank offers highly customisable furniture, from oak dining tables to bespoke shelving units, allowing customers to design pieces that perfectly fit their homes.

The Beauty of Handcrafted Furniture: The company specialises in combining rustic, industrial charm with modern aesthetics, using wood l...

In this episode of Love Your Kitchen, Faye Newman takes us through a design walkthrough of a stunning penthouse apartment kitchen she created in collaboration with an interior designer. Faye highlights how the space was transformed from a clinical layout into a functional, open-plan kitchen that blends beautifully with the dining and living areas. She explains the design decisions made to improve the functionality, such as knocking down walls to allow more natural light and creating seamless storage solutions. 

Key Takeaways

Maximising Light and Space: Knocking down walls to open up the kitchen to t...

In this episode of Love Your Kitchen, Faye Newman explores the timeless appeal of traditional kitchen designs, specifically focusing on shaker and in-frame styles. Faye delves into the intricate details that can elevate a kitchen, from the importance of end panels and cornices to the use of natural wood accents. 

Key Takeaways

Traditional Does Not Mean Old-Fashioned: Traditional kitchen styles are timeless and can be made modern with clever design choices, such as painted finishes, exposed oak, and the addition of T&G panelling.

End Panels and Cornices: These details, although o...

Faye is joined by Amanda Hughes from Blum to discuss how ageing affects kitchen design. Amanda, an ergonomic expert, talks about how factors such as reduced flexibility, loss of visual acuity, and joint stiffness impact how we interact with our kitchens as we age. She shares insights on designing kitchens that are accessible, sustainable, and future-proof, making them suitable for people of all ages, especially those who wish to remain in their homes for longer.

Key Takeaways

The Age Explorer Suit: Amanda demonstrates the Age Explorer suit, which simulates the physical challenges of ageing...

In this episode of Love Your Kitchen, Faye Newman sits down with Madison Brown from Craftwood to explore the world of bespoke seating. Recorded live at the HRC Exhibition in London, this episode dives into the design process behind creating custom seating solutions, particularly for kitchens. Madison explains how Craftwood transforms utilitarian furniture into stylish, functional seating that perfectly complements any space. Whether you're looking to add a statement piece to your kitchen or seeking practicality with style, Madison shares insightful tips on choosing the right seating and materials for your home.

Key Takeaways

...

In this episode of Love Your Kitchen, we welcome Charlie Smallbone, the founder of Smallbone and Devizes and now the MD of Ledbury Studio. Charlie takes us on a journey through his fascinating career, from his early days of buying and selling antiques to his evolution into designing bespoke, luxurious kitchens. With decades of experience, Charlie shares how Ledbury Studio stands out in the industry by creating kitchens that are as functional as they are stylish.

Key Takeaways

A truly bespoke kitchen design starts with understanding your client’s lifestyle, whether it’s for ente...

In this episode of Love Your Kitchen, host Faye Newman takes listeners through a stunning open-plan kitchen design, sharing insights on layout, style, and functionality. She discusses how to balance storage, aesthetics, and practicality while working with extensions and open spaces. From cabinetry choices to the perfect island layout, Faye breaks down key design decisions to help homeowners create a timeless, well-structured kitchen that suits their lifestyle.

Key Takeaways

Balancing Space in Open-Plan Designs – Ensure the kitchen, dining, and living areas feel connected without overcrowding any section.

Smart Storage Solutions – Instead of f...

In this episode of Love Your Kitchen, host Faye Newman is joined by Belinda Dangerfield from Urban Garden Space to discuss the growing trend of outdoor kitchens. They explore why outdoor kitchens have become increasingly popular in the UK, how to design a space that works year-round, and key considerations for durability, functionality, and entertaining. Whether you're thinking of adding a small barbecue setup or a fully equipped outdoor kitchen, this episode is packed with expert insights.

Key Takeaways

The Rise of Outdoor Kitchens: The trend grew post-COVID as people began valuing their outdoor...

In this episode of Love Your Kitchen, host Faye Newman is joined by Will Child from Olive & Barr to explore the heritage, craftsmanship, and design philosophy behind their timeless kitchens. They discuss the evolution of kitchen styles, the enduring appeal of Shaker kitchens, and how clients can personalise their space with thoughtful design details. From colour choices to storage solutions, this episode offers expert insights into creating a kitchen that blends style, functionality, and longevity.

Key Takeaways

Heritage & Growth: Founded by Al Bruce seven years ago, Olive & Barr has grown organically, focusing on quality...

In this episode of Love Your Kitchen, host Faye Newman takes listeners through a detailed kitchen design walkthrough. She shares the journey of transforming a first-time buyer’s kitchen, from layout planning to material selection. Covering essential considerations like storage, aesthetics, and functionality, this episode is packed with valuable insights for anyone planning a kitchen renovation.

Key Takeaways

Maximising Space on a Budget: Thoughtful design choices, such as maintaining existing gas points and optimising storage, help keep costs down while achieving a high-end look.

Smart Storage Solutions: Features like integrated bins, co...

In this episode of Love Your Kitchen, host Faye Newman answers the top 10 most frequently asked questions about kitchen islands. From choosing the right size and materials to incorporating appliances and maximising storage, this episode provides expert advice to help you design the perfect island for your space.

Key Takeaways

Choosing the Right Size: Islands should be proportional to the space, allowing at least 1m walkways around them. The typical size ranges from 2.4m to 3m wide.

Material Considerations: Quartz, granite, and ceramics are durable choices, while wood accents can add...

In this episode of the Love Your Kitchen Podcast, host Faye Newman sits down with George Glasier from Pluck Kitchens, a London-based company known for its sustainable, design-led kitchens. They discuss Pluck’s journey, their commitment to eco-friendly materials, and how their unique approach balances aesthetics with functionality. George shares insights into their design philosophy, the benefits of birch plywood cabinetry, and how thoughtful colour choices create timeless kitchen spaces.

Key Takeaways

Sustainability First: Pluck prioritises eco-friendly materials like birch plywood and high-pressure laminate, avoiding MDF and chipboard for a durable, low-impact design.

In this episode of the Love Your Kitchen Podcast, host Faye Newman speaks with Belinda Dangerfield, Managing Director of Qudaus Living, about accessible kitchen design. They discuss how inclusive kitchens can be stylish and functional, breaking down common misconceptions and sharing expert advice on designing for different needs. From wheelchair accessibility to sensory-friendly materials, this episode provides insights into making kitchens work for everyone.

Key Takeaways

Inclusive Kitchen Design: Accessibility doesn’t mean compromising on aesthetics—universal design principles allow for stylish, functional spaces tailored to different needs.

Rise-and-Fall Worktops: Adjustable-height work...