This week we invited Matthew to take part in our new series – ‘Harvey Jones Expert Q&A’.
1. Tell us a bit about yourself and what you do.
My name is Matthew and I am a kitchen designer at Harvey Jones. I have always had a passion for design. Following my interior design degree and a passion for cooking, it seemed a good fit to venture into kitchen design.
2. What is your design mantra?
“Design a space that works for you, rather than sticking to the kitchen ‘rules’.”
3. What is your kitchen like at home?
Mine is actually an ex-display Harvey Jones kitchen. It’s a galley kitchen and works well for me because I love having everything I need in one place.
4. What inspires your work? Where do you go for inspiration?
When I am looking for inspiration, my main source is online. Pinterest is great as it allows me to create moodboards and draw up ideas for my clients.
5. What are your first considerations when designing a new kitchen?
The first consideration should always be the layout; this is a fundamental aspect when identifying a space. Once the layout has been chosen, all other focal points in the kitchen will become clear and the rest of the scheme will follow.
6. What projects have you found the most rewarding and why?
Anything with a challenging space excites me. Taking advantage of obscure and difficult kitchens are much more rewarding. You can enjoy more creative freedom with the final decisions.
7. What do you try to avoid?
I always try to avoid fitting a sink in an island, it will create clutter and detract from the island being the focal point of the kitchen, which is what you want.
8. How has kitchen design changed over the last five years?
Consumers’ perception of colour has drastically changed over the last five years. Historically there was a demand for white, grey and neutral kitchens but now clients are considering more bold and statement colours.
9. What kitchen trends do you predict in 2018?
I think there will be a continued surge in bright pops of colour. I have already seen this start to take place, with clients incorporating it into their kitchen schemes. Hardware options are becoming more industrial and the use of retro metal finishes are more commonly used.
10. Do you have any tips for homeowners embarking on a new kitchen project?
Your home will always change within the first six months of living there, so you must make sure you know your kitchen before you approach the idea of renovating the space. Ensure you have had the original kitchen for a while beforehand so you understand the flow of the space and the type of kitchen that will work.
Browse our case study page to see more about the Shaker kitchen designed by Matthew. Alternatively, request a copy of our brochure here for more kitchen inspiration.
Our expert designers hold a wealth of knowledge to help you progress with your project. Call 0800 389 6938 or visit you local Harvey Jones showroom.
