White Shaker kitchen with island in Tamworth
This kitchen began as a layout that no longer flowed well for everyday use, with limited worktop space and an arrangement that restricted movement. The client wanted a brighter, more sociable kitchen with an island at its heart, improved lighting, and a layout that worked better for both cooking and family life.
The Before
Before the renovation, the kitchen felt disjointed and inefficient. The layout limited usable space and made it difficult to move comfortably between key areas, while dated finishes and lighting left the room feeling darker than it needed to be.
There were also practical constraints to address. Electrical changes were required to support modern appliances and improved lighting, and the existing doorway placement interrupted the natural flow of the space. These issues combined to make the kitchen feel less functional than the client needed it to be.
What we did…
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To transform the space, the design centred around a TKC Cartmel White Shaker Woodgrain kitchen, chosen for its classic proportions and light-reflective finish. This helped brighten the room while keeping the overall look timeless and versatile.
A central island was introduced to improve flow and usability, creating a natural hub for preparation, casual seating, and day-to-day interaction. Quartz Bianco Carrara worktops with a matching upstand added a clean, refined surface that works well for busy family use, while Westminster D handles provided a subtle, traditional detail that complements the Shaker doors without overpowering the design.
Bosch appliances, including an oven, microwave, and dishwasher, were carefully positioned to support an efficient working layout, with pop-up sockets integrated into the island to keep surfaces clear while adding everyday convenience.
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The introduction of the island required careful planning to ensure clear walkways and balanced proportions within the room. Electrical provision was built into the design from the outset, allowing pop-up sockets and ceiling spotlights to be positioned precisely where they were needed.
Significant plastering works were carried out to achieve a clean, seamless finish. The ceiling was overboarded and skimmed, while walls were fully replastered following electrical works, ensuring the final kitchen felt crisp and well finished throughout.
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Central KBB oversaw all aspects of the project, coordinating strip-out, electrical alterations, plastering, and installation to ensure each stage followed smoothly. A key change involved blocking and relocating a doorway, which dramatically improved the flow and usability of the kitchen.
Throughout the process, careful sequencing and clear communication kept disruption to a minimum. Every trade was coordinated to meet Central KBB’s exacting standards, ensuring the finished kitchen reflected both the design intent and the quality expected.
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The completed kitchen now feels light, open, and well balanced. The island anchors the space, making it practical for everyday cooking while also creating a welcoming place to gather. With improved flow, thoughtful lighting, and durable finishes, the kitchen now supports daily life with ease and confidence.
