MBK Design Studio Knowledge Centre

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Who am I?
My name is Stewart Woodruff and I started working with the company when it first opened way back in 1987, and it is my good fortune that many of the people currently involved with the company have all worked with me for many years.

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.

Stewart Woodruff
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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.

How much does a Bathroom cost?

How much does a Bathroom cost?

One of the first questions potential bathroom purchasers want to know when they contact my company is ‘ How much does a bathroom cost? This is a very difficult question to answer however I will try my best here to explain some general price guidelines. In order to get...

read more
Bathroom Design – Planning Guide

Bathroom Design – Planning Guide

Whatever the size of your bathroom – or budget – we will help you plan the bathroom you've always dreamt of, here we discuss; Bathroom décor ideas, Inclusive bathroom adaptations, Bathroom colour ideas, Bathroom paint, Bathroom wallpaper, Bathroom wall panels and...

read more
Our 5 top tips for designing your dream bathroom.

Our 5 top tips for designing your dream bathroom.

‘I want to design my own bathroom, where can I start?’ Taking matters into your own hands is great! Ensure you’re making use of the wide range of online tools! Before that starts you need to measure up! Precision is key, double and triple check every measurement....

read more
Design ideas for transforming your bathroom

Design ideas for transforming your bathroom

Transform your bathroom from a purely functional space to a rejuvenating oasis with our expert tips. Discover how to seamlessly blend style and practicality while staying on budget. No matter the size of your bathroom or shower room, you deserve to have a serene and...

read more
Where to go for your Bathroom Improvements

Where to go for your Bathroom Improvements

It is essential to know where to go for your bathroom improvements. It is normally a wise decision to choose a specialist for a bathroom where a design service is available and a full installation process, plumbing, electrics and a range of goods are available to make...

read more
Buyers may be put off by your property

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...

read more
What to consider when designing a bathroom for the future

What to consider when designing a bathroom for the future

It goes without saying that the bathroom is a critical room in any home. It's essential for hygiene and comfort, but it can also be a source of style and beauty. When it comes to bathroom design, however, many people don't think very far into the future. They may plan...

read more
5 Tips to remember when designing your bathroom

5 Tips to remember when designing your bathroom

When starting a project, everything can be exciting – from picking tiles to deciding on replumbing (yes, really). But that also makes it easy to forget something, especially if it’s one of the finer details. And there’s no shame in that – the most organised of us can...

read more
Why buy a bathroom from an independent retailer

Why buy a bathroom from an independent retailer

“An Honest Comparison” We exist in a competitive society and to consider that Independents cannot compete with National Retailers would be an incorrect assumption. On a like for like basis the Independents will compete however we don’t want to just compete on that...

read more
Bathroom Design trends

Bathroom Design trends

Your bathroom is meant to be a retreat, regardless of its size. For instance, you enjoy the charm of a small bathroom by outfitting it with bold wallpaper or large format porcelain feature tiles, or you can fill a spacious bathroom layout with a calming white colour...

read more
Bathroom trends and colour ideas

Bathroom trends and colour ideas

One of the most popular interior trends for furnishing our homes in recent years has to create the cottage effect of idealised rural life. This is all about creating a wholesome, laidback and rustic vibe that makes you feel at ease making it perfect for a relaxing...

read more
Tips for choosing bathroom furniture

Tips for choosing bathroom furniture

When choosing bathroom furniture, it is important to consider both form and function. Whether you are looking for sleek modern vanities, compact storage cabinets, or freestanding bathtubs, there are plenty of options available to suit the needs and aesthetics of any...

read more
What’s the best underfloor heating for bathrooms?

What’s the best underfloor heating for bathrooms?

This is one of the most commonly asked questions and for good reason! With so many brands of underfloor heating out there including Warm Up, Heat Mat, Thermosphere and Schluter, and different methods of heating like wet vs. electric underfloor heating, it can be...

read more
8 Space-saving Bathroom Storage Ideas

8 Space-saving Bathroom Storage Ideas

Another of our series of Blogs called “Ask the Experts” and this one is by Amanda Pollard (Houzz Contributor) In a small bathroom, it can be tricky to find enough space for storage, but nooks and crannies, unused corners and awkward angles can all offer the chance to...

read more
Steam Shower Room

Steam Shower Room

Plan the shower room layout: Seating – You will want to relax when taking a steam bath so seating is essential. To save on space in a smaller rooms you can use a fold-away seat. If you have enough space you could build a seating area on one or two sides of the room,...

read more
Small Bathroom ideas on a budget……

Small Bathroom ideas on a budget……

Making the most of a small bathroom doesn’t have to be expensive. There are many small bathroom designs and cost-saving solutions out there to help you get the room of your dreams.  Combi bath and shower Whether you’re short on space or looking to save a few a...

read more
8 Key Elements for a Family Bathroom

8 Key Elements for a Family Bathroom

Another of our series of Blogs called “Ask the Experts” and this one is by Amanda Pollard (Houzz Contributor) Don’t forget these essential items to ensure your family bathroom works well for the whole household Install easy-access storage When a number of people are...

read more
8 Questions to Ask Before Starting a Bathroom Renovation

8 Questions to Ask Before Starting a Bathroom Renovation

Another of our series of Blogs called “Ask the Experts” and this one is by Jennifer Chong (Houzz Contributor) Revamping your wash space? Get a clear idea of what you want to achieve by thinking about these essentials first. A bathroom can be one of the trickiest rooms...

read more
5 Ideas for Creating A Wet Room

5 Ideas for Creating A Wet Room

Another of our series of Blogs called “Ask the Experts” and this one is by Wet Room Materials. Many renovated properties and even new developments now have them, but with so many options available, where do you begin when creating a wet room? Here are five ideas,...

read more
How to choose the Right Lighting for your Wet Room

How to choose the Right Lighting for your Wet Room

Another of our series of Blogs called “Ask the Experts” and this one is by Wet Room Materials. As we head into the spring and summer months, we look forward to the lighter and brighter nights this time of the year brings with it. But the aim is to simulate this lovely...

read more
How to achieve a Leak Proof Wet Room Design

How to achieve a Leak Proof Wet Room Design

Another of our series of Blogs called “Ask the Experts” and this one is by Wet Room Materials. It may appear counter-intuitive to willingly construct an area in a hotel or a house that has the potential to damage the surrounding fabric of the building it inhabits....

read more
Avoid these 3 costly “Wet Room” problems

Avoid these 3 costly “Wet Room” problems

Another of our series of Blogs called “Ask the Experts” and this one is by Wet Room Materials. A wet room effortlessly provides both luxury and functionality to a residential property, be it a private dwelling or a hotel complex. However, excellence usually comes at a...

read more
Revamping your Shower Rooms

Revamping your Shower Rooms

Another of our series of Blogs called “Ask the Experts” and this one is by Lucy Searle (Houzz Contributor) Revamping your home? A shower room – or at least a separate showering space within your bathroom – is the dream, right? Browse these top ideas for creating one...

read more
How much does a Bathroom cost?

How much does a Bathroom cost?

One of the first questions potential bathroom purchasers want to know when they contact my company is ‘ How much does a bathroom cost? This is a very difficult question to answer however I will try my best here to explain some general price guidelines. In order to get...

read more
Bathroom Design – Planning Guide

Bathroom Design – Planning Guide

Whatever the size of your bathroom – or budget – we will help you plan the bathroom you've always dreamt of, here we discuss; Bathroom décor ideas, Inclusive bathroom adaptations, Bathroom colour ideas, Bathroom paint, Bathroom wallpaper, Bathroom wall panels and...

read more
Our 5 top tips for designing your dream bathroom.

Our 5 top tips for designing your dream bathroom.

‘I want to design my own bathroom, where can I start?’ Taking matters into your own hands is great! Ensure you’re making use of the wide range of online tools! Before that starts you need to measure up! Precision is key, double and triple check every measurement....

read more
Design ideas for transforming your bathroom

Design ideas for transforming your bathroom

Transform your bathroom from a purely functional space to a rejuvenating oasis with our expert tips. Discover how to seamlessly blend style and practicality while staying on budget. No matter the size of your bathroom or shower room, you deserve to have a serene and...

read more
Where to go for your Bathroom Improvements

Where to go for your Bathroom Improvements

It is essential to know where to go for your bathroom improvements. It is normally a wise decision to choose a specialist for a bathroom where a design service is available and a full installation process, plumbing, electrics and a range of goods are available to make...

read more
Buyers may be put off by your property

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...

read more
What to consider when designing a bathroom for the future

What to consider when designing a bathroom for the future

It goes without saying that the bathroom is a critical room in any home. It's essential for hygiene and comfort, but it can also be a source of style and beauty. When it comes to bathroom design, however, many people don't think very far into the future. They may plan...

read more
5 Tips to remember when designing your bathroom

5 Tips to remember when designing your bathroom

When starting a project, everything can be exciting – from picking tiles to deciding on replumbing (yes, really). But that also makes it easy to forget something, especially if it’s one of the finer details. And there’s no shame in that – the most organised of us can...

read more
Why buy a bathroom from an independent retailer

Why buy a bathroom from an independent retailer

“An Honest Comparison” We exist in a competitive society and to consider that Independents cannot compete with National Retailers would be an incorrect assumption. On a like for like basis the Independents will compete however we don’t want to just compete on that...

read more
Bathroom Design trends

Bathroom Design trends

Your bathroom is meant to be a retreat, regardless of its size. For instance, you enjoy the charm of a small bathroom by outfitting it with bold wallpaper or large format porcelain feature tiles, or you can fill a spacious bathroom layout with a calming white colour...

read more
Bathroom trends and colour ideas

Bathroom trends and colour ideas

One of the most popular interior trends for furnishing our homes in recent years has to create the cottage effect of idealised rural life. This is all about creating a wholesome, laidback and rustic vibe that makes you feel at ease making it perfect for a relaxing...

read more
Tips for choosing bathroom furniture

Tips for choosing bathroom furniture

When choosing bathroom furniture, it is important to consider both form and function. Whether you are looking for sleek modern vanities, compact storage cabinets, or freestanding bathtubs, there are plenty of options available to suit the needs and aesthetics of any...

read more
What’s the best underfloor heating for bathrooms?

What’s the best underfloor heating for bathrooms?

This is one of the most commonly asked questions and for good reason! With so many brands of underfloor heating out there including Warm Up, Heat Mat, Thermosphere and Schluter, and different methods of heating like wet vs. electric underfloor heating, it can be...

read more
8 Space-saving Bathroom Storage Ideas

8 Space-saving Bathroom Storage Ideas

Another of our series of Blogs called “Ask the Experts” and this one is by Amanda Pollard (Houzz Contributor) In a small bathroom, it can be tricky to find enough space for storage, but nooks and crannies, unused corners and awkward angles can all offer the chance to...

read more
Steam Shower Room

Steam Shower Room

Plan the shower room layout: Seating – You will want to relax when taking a steam bath so seating is essential. To save on space in a smaller rooms you can use a fold-away seat. If you have enough space you could build a seating area on one or two sides of the room,...

read more
Small Bathroom ideas on a budget……

Small Bathroom ideas on a budget……

Making the most of a small bathroom doesn’t have to be expensive. There are many small bathroom designs and cost-saving solutions out there to help you get the room of your dreams.  Combi bath and shower Whether you’re short on space or looking to save a few a...

read more
8 Key Elements for a Family Bathroom

8 Key Elements for a Family Bathroom

Another of our series of Blogs called “Ask the Experts” and this one is by Amanda Pollard (Houzz Contributor) Don’t forget these essential items to ensure your family bathroom works well for the whole household Install easy-access storage When a number of people are...

read more
8 Questions to Ask Before Starting a Bathroom Renovation

8 Questions to Ask Before Starting a Bathroom Renovation

Another of our series of Blogs called “Ask the Experts” and this one is by Jennifer Chong (Houzz Contributor) Revamping your wash space? Get a clear idea of what you want to achieve by thinking about these essentials first. A bathroom can be one of the trickiest rooms...

read more
5 Ideas for Creating A Wet Room

5 Ideas for Creating A Wet Room

Another of our series of Blogs called “Ask the Experts” and this one is by Wet Room Materials. Many renovated properties and even new developments now have them, but with so many options available, where do you begin when creating a wet room? Here are five ideas,...

read more
How to choose the Right Lighting for your Wet Room

How to choose the Right Lighting for your Wet Room

Another of our series of Blogs called “Ask the Experts” and this one is by Wet Room Materials. As we head into the spring and summer months, we look forward to the lighter and brighter nights this time of the year brings with it. But the aim is to simulate this lovely...

read more
How to achieve a Leak Proof Wet Room Design

How to achieve a Leak Proof Wet Room Design

Another of our series of Blogs called “Ask the Experts” and this one is by Wet Room Materials. It may appear counter-intuitive to willingly construct an area in a hotel or a house that has the potential to damage the surrounding fabric of the building it inhabits....

read more
Avoid these 3 costly “Wet Room” problems

Avoid these 3 costly “Wet Room” problems

Another of our series of Blogs called “Ask the Experts” and this one is by Wet Room Materials. A wet room effortlessly provides both luxury and functionality to a residential property, be it a private dwelling or a hotel complex. However, excellence usually comes at a...

read more
Revamping your Shower Rooms

Revamping your Shower Rooms

Another of our series of Blogs called “Ask the Experts” and this one is by Lucy Searle (Houzz Contributor) Revamping your home? A shower room – or at least a separate showering space within your bathroom – is the dream, right? Browse these top ideas for creating one...

read more
How much does a Bathroom cost?

How much does a Bathroom cost?

One of the first questions potential bathroom purchasers want to know when they contact my company is ‘ How much does a bathroom cost? This is a very difficult question to answer however I will try my best here to explain some general price guidelines. In order to get...

read more
Bathroom Design – Planning Guide

Bathroom Design – Planning Guide

Whatever the size of your bathroom – or budget – we will help you plan the bathroom you've always dreamt of, here we discuss; Bathroom décor ideas, Inclusive bathroom adaptations, Bathroom colour ideas, Bathroom paint, Bathroom wallpaper, Bathroom wall panels and...

read more
Our 5 top tips for designing your dream bathroom.

Our 5 top tips for designing your dream bathroom.

‘I want to design my own bathroom, where can I start?’ Taking matters into your own hands is great! Ensure you’re making use of the wide range of online tools! Before that starts you need to measure up! Precision is key, double and triple check every measurement....

read more
Design ideas for transforming your bathroom

Design ideas for transforming your bathroom

Transform your bathroom from a purely functional space to a rejuvenating oasis with our expert tips. Discover how to seamlessly blend style and practicality while staying on budget. No matter the size of your bathroom or shower room, you deserve to have a serene and...

read more
Where to go for your Bathroom Improvements

Where to go for your Bathroom Improvements

It is essential to know where to go for your bathroom improvements. It is normally a wise decision to choose a specialist for a bathroom where a design service is available and a full installation process, plumbing, electrics and a range of goods are available to make...

read more
Buyers may be put off by your property

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...

read more
What to consider when designing a bathroom for the future

What to consider when designing a bathroom for the future

It goes without saying that the bathroom is a critical room in any home. It's essential for hygiene and comfort, but it can also be a source of style and beauty. When it comes to bathroom design, however, many people don't think very far into the future. They may plan...

read more
5 Tips to remember when designing your bathroom

5 Tips to remember when designing your bathroom

When starting a project, everything can be exciting – from picking tiles to deciding on replumbing (yes, really). But that also makes it easy to forget something, especially if it’s one of the finer details. And there’s no shame in that – the most organised of us can...

read more
Why buy a bathroom from an independent retailer

Why buy a bathroom from an independent retailer

“An Honest Comparison” We exist in a competitive society and to consider that Independents cannot compete with National Retailers would be an incorrect assumption. On a like for like basis the Independents will compete however we don’t want to just compete on that...

read more
Bathroom Design trends

Bathroom Design trends

Your bathroom is meant to be a retreat, regardless of its size. For instance, you enjoy the charm of a small bathroom by outfitting it with bold wallpaper or large format porcelain feature tiles, or you can fill a spacious bathroom layout with a calming white colour...

read more
Bathroom trends and colour ideas

Bathroom trends and colour ideas

One of the most popular interior trends for furnishing our homes in recent years has to create the cottage effect of idealised rural life. This is all about creating a wholesome, laidback and rustic vibe that makes you feel at ease making it perfect for a relaxing...

read more
Tips for choosing bathroom furniture

Tips for choosing bathroom furniture

When choosing bathroom furniture, it is important to consider both form and function. Whether you are looking for sleek modern vanities, compact storage cabinets, or freestanding bathtubs, there are plenty of options available to suit the needs and aesthetics of any...

read more
What’s the best underfloor heating for bathrooms?

What’s the best underfloor heating for bathrooms?

This is one of the most commonly asked questions and for good reason! With so many brands of underfloor heating out there including Warm Up, Heat Mat, Thermosphere and Schluter, and different methods of heating like wet vs. electric underfloor heating, it can be...

read more
8 Space-saving Bathroom Storage Ideas

8 Space-saving Bathroom Storage Ideas

Another of our series of Blogs called “Ask the Experts” and this one is by Amanda Pollard (Houzz Contributor) In a small bathroom, it can be tricky to find enough space for storage, but nooks and crannies, unused corners and awkward angles can all offer the chance to...

read more
Steam Shower Room

Steam Shower Room

Plan the shower room layout: Seating – You will want to relax when taking a steam bath so seating is essential. To save on space in a smaller rooms you can use a fold-away seat. If you have enough space you could build a seating area on one or two sides of the room,...

read more
Small Bathroom ideas on a budget……

Small Bathroom ideas on a budget……

Making the most of a small bathroom doesn’t have to be expensive. There are many small bathroom designs and cost-saving solutions out there to help you get the room of your dreams.  Combi bath and shower Whether you’re short on space or looking to save a few a...

read more
8 Key Elements for a Family Bathroom

8 Key Elements for a Family Bathroom

Another of our series of Blogs called “Ask the Experts” and this one is by Amanda Pollard (Houzz Contributor) Don’t forget these essential items to ensure your family bathroom works well for the whole household Install easy-access storage When a number of people are...

read more
8 Questions to Ask Before Starting a Bathroom Renovation

8 Questions to Ask Before Starting a Bathroom Renovation

Another of our series of Blogs called “Ask the Experts” and this one is by Jennifer Chong (Houzz Contributor) Revamping your wash space? Get a clear idea of what you want to achieve by thinking about these essentials first. A bathroom can be one of the trickiest rooms...

read more
5 Ideas for Creating A Wet Room

5 Ideas for Creating A Wet Room

Another of our series of Blogs called “Ask the Experts” and this one is by Wet Room Materials. Many renovated properties and even new developments now have them, but with so many options available, where do you begin when creating a wet room? Here are five ideas,...

read more
How to choose the Right Lighting for your Wet Room

How to choose the Right Lighting for your Wet Room

Another of our series of Blogs called “Ask the Experts” and this one is by Wet Room Materials. As we head into the spring and summer months, we look forward to the lighter and brighter nights this time of the year brings with it. But the aim is to simulate this lovely...

read more
How to achieve a Leak Proof Wet Room Design

How to achieve a Leak Proof Wet Room Design

Another of our series of Blogs called “Ask the Experts” and this one is by Wet Room Materials. It may appear counter-intuitive to willingly construct an area in a hotel or a house that has the potential to damage the surrounding fabric of the building it inhabits....

read more
Avoid these 3 costly “Wet Room” problems

Avoid these 3 costly “Wet Room” problems

Another of our series of Blogs called “Ask the Experts” and this one is by Wet Room Materials. A wet room effortlessly provides both luxury and functionality to a residential property, be it a private dwelling or a hotel complex. However, excellence usually comes at a...

read more
Revamping your Shower Rooms

Revamping your Shower Rooms

Another of our series of Blogs called “Ask the Experts” and this one is by Lucy Searle (Houzz Contributor) Revamping your home? A shower room – or at least a separate showering space within your bathroom – is the dream, right? Browse these top ideas for creating one...

read more

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