Well, at the time of writing we’re in the middle of a snow storm. So trying to get enthusiastic about spring looks and colours seems somewhat premature … In the meantime we’ve had a look at a new, award-nominated showroom, and also bring you news of some stunning new bathroom brassware.

NEW ET LOREM SHOWROOM IN READING

This stunning new showroom, the Et Lorem Studio in Reading, is an amazing space and has been recently been named as a finalist in the KBB Review Retail & Design Awards 2023. The awards, to be held next month on April 20th 2023 will feature in future stores here on The Kitchen Think. The Et Lorem studio has an expansive 4000 sq ft to display 11 room sets, as well as a selection of samples, appliances and accessories.

A LOWER LEVEL BREAKFAST SPACE FEATURES IN THIS ROOMSET

Jamie Harding, Founder, and his team at Et Lorem believe that the kitchen holds the identity of the home. ‘It’s an honest, personal space that when designed specifically for you, creates an expressive statement’ he enthuses. ‘No two kitchens or families are the same, we design each kitchen and complementary space to reflect the way the family lives, their personalities and their culinary skills and passions’.

GLAZED WALL CABINETS ARE A STRIKING FEATURE

Jamie’s intention when launching Et Lorem was to create a different approach for homeowners, interiors designers and boutique developers. ‘Our team has a wide range of expertise’ he says. ‘Working throughout Berkshire, the Home Counties and London has allowed us to develop a deep understanding of different clients and how their wishes can inspire us to create stunning kitchens and living spaces’. Services offered include bespoke kitchen design, project management, installation and on-going aftercare.

WINE CABINETRY AND RECESSED DISPLAY SHELVES

The new Reading studio has 4000 sq ft of design space, with a loft-style office featuring Crittall-style panelled glass, brick walls, sawn-timber features and beautiful herringbone floors. The team have created a studio tour that takes clients on a journey through the different kitchen roomsets, including viewings of appliances, flooring, wall and surfaces options and displays.

POCKET DOORS ARE SHOWN TO GREAT ADVANTAGE

Brands include Rotpunkt, Doimo Cucine, Masterclass and Et Lorem Bespoke cabinetry; BORA, Siemens, Gaggenau, Neff, BLANCO, Quooker and Kaelo appliances, and Cosentino surfaces.

THE PERFECT ISLAND FOR ENTERTAINING

Rotpunkt kitchens are German-made and beautifully engineered, the company is known for its contemporary looks that prioritise design and function. Rotpunkt production is also 100% climate neutral. Doimo Cucine kitchens are modular, and are available in an enormous range of personalised finishes that fit into all kinds of style themes, from minimalist to elegant, restrained to brightly-coloured, also using 100% FSC-certified recycled timber.

CLASSIC SHAKER-STYLE CHOICE

As everyone is becoming more conscious of clients expectations regarding sustainability, Et Lorem is partnered with sustainability expert Eight Versa, with the intention of becoming carbon neutral by 2025. Jamie adds ‘As a business, Et Lorem has also committed to the goal of becoming Net Zero by 2040’. All the timber used in their bespoke kitchens uses sustainably sourced materials and practices, and is FSC-certified. Et Lorem is also partnered with Used Kitchen Exchange so clients can consider giving their old kitchen a new home and easing the process of disposing of their old kitchen.

THINK PINK FOR A STAND OUT LOOK

Et Lorem isn’t just about kitchens, the team also designs living spaces, entertaining areas, utilities,  pantries, and bespoke cabinetry for other rooms in the home. Jamie adds ‘As Et Lorem is an independent studio, we work with a design-led approach in that our designers are not bound by the limitations of a single product line. We have a wonderful selection of collections available which allow us to satisfy our clients vision with imagination and confidence’.

NEW DESIGN FROM DORNBRACHT IN BRUSHED CHAMPAGNE

Gold, pink and green are a brilliant combination for a new kitchen look. This is Meta Square from Dornbracht, in the super-luxe Brushed Champagne finish, which is 22kt gold. There are various options, with a pull-down hose and bar tap versions. Other finishes include Champagne 22kt gold and Dark Chrome. Updated design features include minimised body diameter, additional height, and a notchless lever base that has an integrated flow-reducer in the spout.

NEW ACCESSIBILITY BATHROOM DESIGNS BY STUDIO PORSCHE FOR KEUCO

Accessibilitity features are an increasing consideration for bathroom designers, and the new AXESS range from KEUCO has been designed by the Studio F.A. Porsche team. The range includes a folding support rail, grab rails, and a freestanding stool. The range focusses on the essentials, combining aesthetics and barrier-free functionality, without making the special functions visually obvious or intrusive. Christian Schwamkrug, Design Director, Studio F.A. Porsche comments ‘Our aim was to develop accessible bathroom products from a completely new perspective. Our ambition was to create something special, right down to the smallest details, and making it technically possible. A combination of German engineering and top-quality implementation in every respect’.

NEW GREEN IDEAS FROM DEXAM

We’re definitely on the green team as far as cookware is concerned, and bring you news of a new limited edition colour from Dexam. These cast iron dishes can be used in any oven or on any hob, and the clever design with self-basting rings on the underside of the lids recirculate moisture during the cooking process. Which means very succulent results for casseroles and slow-cooked dishes. Shown here, the Forest shade of green.

FOR THE LOVE OF KITCHENS WITH DEVOL

We’ve featured deVOL kitchens many times in our blog stories and as case studies here on The Kitchen Think, and so we want to point you in the direction of Season 2 of the Emmy nominated TV series, For The Love of Kitchens, which can be seen on HGTV UK, Freeview Channel 44 or on Discovery+, from 20^th March. There are ten stories of amazing homes, each with inspirational stories and stunning design results. Click here for more details on how to watch.