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.

10 Big Kitchen trends for 2023 onwards

10 Big Kitchen trends for 2023 onwards

From concealed breakfast stations to playful pink hues... Pink kitchens, reeded glass cabinets and freestanding furniture are some of the biggest kitchen trends for 2023/2024. As the role of the kitchen continues to evolve, bespoke designs, colour preferences and a...

read more
Where to go for your Kitchen Improvements

Where to go for your Kitchen Improvements

Today's current economic climate is making it very difficult for people to sell their homes and move up to the property ladder. Selling can be quite easy but buying not so easy. This in mind, many people are spending money to make money, and in the property market...

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
How to buy a kitchen during a cost of living crisis

How to buy a kitchen during a cost of living crisis

With price rises looming on everything from materials, appliances, fixtures and fittings, energy to food – now may feel like a scary time to embark on a large renovation project. In the hopes of easing your worries, I’ve asked the experts for advice on how to buy a...

read more
Kitchen Island – Do I have enough space?

Kitchen Island – Do I have enough space?

Do you have enough room for a kitchen island Do you have enough space in your kitchen without an island making you feel cramped and constricted? Kitchen Island size is important. A kitchen island is a dreamy wish list item for most of us. Who wouldn’t want a central...

read more
Kitchen Design Tips

Kitchen Design Tips

Looking to redesign your kitchen but not sure where to start? You're definitely not alone. A kitchen renovation can be a major undertaking, but it's also a great way to create a space that perfectly suits your needs and style. When it comes time to design your new...

read more
Kitchen planning allowing for changes in circumstances

Kitchen planning allowing for changes in circumstances

When it comes to designing your kitchen, what is your vision for the future? Do you want a space that is timeless and can be enjoyed for years to come? Or are you looking for a more contemporary design that will reflect your current lifestyle? While it's important to...

read more
6 Ideas for Creating a Modern Kitchen in a Country Home

6 Ideas for Creating a Modern Kitchen in a Country Home

These contemporary cook spaces stylishly subvert the stereotypical country kitchen while still being welcoming. Another one of our series of Blogs called “Ask the Experts” and this one is by Kate Burt part of the Houzz editorial team. What do you picture when you hear...

read more
Help in designing a Kitchen

Help in designing a Kitchen

Most people would let the designer prepare your project for you, but remember this is your house and it must suit your needs, so although the designer may have years of experience designing kitchens they have never worked in your kitchen, so with your input you can...

read more
How to Incorporate Metallics into Your Kitchen

How to Incorporate Metallics into Your Kitchen

Another of our series of Blogs called “Ask the Experts” and this one is by Sarah Preece a Houzz contributor. Metallics are definitely having their moment. From stainless steel to copper to brass, metallic finishes have been elevated to luxe status. Metallic finishes...

read more
Which is the best Instant Hot water tap

Which is the best Instant Hot water tap

As the name suggests, boiling-water taps provide instant hot water without the need to switch on the kettle or boil a pan on the hob. They can be a smart and handy solution if you want to streamline your kitchen surfaces, or find using the kettle a hassle....

read more
IF I WERE THE CUSTOMER!

IF I WERE THE CUSTOMER!

My profile is that I am a 50 plus female who now works for an Independent company that up until 2 years ago I had very little knowledge of. With the knowledge I now have of the Independent Company I looked at what was my previous perception of buying from an...

read more
What is a broken plan kitchen layout?

What is a broken plan kitchen layout?

For many of us, our kitchen is right at the heart of our homes. With so much cooking and socialising taking place in this space, you’re bound to want to ensure it looks its best. Replacing the free flow of an open plan kitchen, a broken plan style splits up separate...

read more
Working the Room – What’s popular in kitchens now…..

Working the Room – What’s popular in kitchens now…..

Another of our series of Blogs called “Ask the Experts” and this one is by Gwendolyn Purdom a Houzz contributor. Whether it’s a splash of colour in the cabinets, a champagne-brass drawer pull or a wall of open shelving, the kitchen ideas homeowners and designers are...

read more
Questions you need to ask before you plan a new Kitchen

Questions you need to ask before you plan a new Kitchen

Another of our series of Blogs called “Ask the Experts” and this one is by Katie Levell a Houzz contributor. A kitchen renovation can seem daunting at the outset, simply because there are so many elements involved in getting it right. It’s not just about creating a...

read more
How much does a Kitchen cost?

How much does a Kitchen cost?

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

read more
Decisions to be made before buying your Kitchen

Decisions to be made before buying your Kitchen

After many hours of research you have chosen the company from whom you would like to buy your kitchen from. You feel comfortable that you would be happy with the service they will supply be it supply and the installation or supply only. You will now need to re-address...

read more
Changing the colour, changes the feel

Changing the colour, changes the feel

Kitchen Case Study The Brief Our clients are a retired couple living in Kings Hill, West Malling, they had a modern house with a fairly new kitchen however they were disappointed with the quality of the kitchen and the finish of the doors. They wanted a radical change...

read more
Do you really need a new Kitchen?

Do you really need a new Kitchen?

Do you feel that your kitchen just needs to be freshened up, it feels a little dated and you would like it to be more functional? So how do you go about it and is it possible? Popular press is full of adverts of companies that can transform your kitchen in a couple of...

read more
Choosing your new Kitchen Appliances

Choosing your new Kitchen Appliances

Always choose the best kitchen appliances you can afford as named brands always add value. Brands such as Bosch, Siemens and Neff inspire confidence and reinforce your pride in your property. A good looking kitchen appliance always will enhance the space and having a...

read more
Choosing your Kitchen Flooring

Choosing your Kitchen Flooring

Don’t forget the floor finish it is the largest area of colour in your kitchen and so it is a very important part of the overall design. Whatever materials you use for your kitchen flooring, from vinyl sheet to natural stone ensure that it does not compete with the...

read more
Choosing your Kitchen Worktops

Choosing your Kitchen Worktops

The Importance of Kitchen Worktops For your work surfaces all solid surfaces will elevate the value of your kitchen. Irrespective of the style of kitchen the durability and appearance of these surfaces means that objections from prospective purchasers are rare. If you...

read more
Choosing the right Kitchen Sink & Taps

Choosing the right Kitchen Sink & Taps

It is important to choose high quality taps and sinks, inferior sinks mark and scratch easily. Taps and sinks are the centre point of any kitchen, so a good looking tap provides a good impact visually combined with an attractive sink reinforces the pedigree of your...

read more
Choosing your new Kitchen Lighting

Choosing your new Kitchen Lighting

Good lighting is crucial. Make sure that you have installed good lighting that can illuminate different areas of your kitchen for different usage. There is nothing worse than poor lighting in a kitchen, leaving working areas in the dark and also being unable to create...

read more
10 Big Kitchen trends for 2023 onwards

10 Big Kitchen trends for 2023 onwards

From concealed breakfast stations to playful pink hues... Pink kitchens, reeded glass cabinets and freestanding furniture are some of the biggest kitchen trends for 2023/2024. As the role of the kitchen continues to evolve, bespoke designs, colour preferences and a...

read more
Where to go for your Kitchen Improvements

Where to go for your Kitchen Improvements

Today's current economic climate is making it very difficult for people to sell their homes and move up to the property ladder. Selling can be quite easy but buying not so easy. This in mind, many people are spending money to make money, and in the property market...

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
How to buy a kitchen during a cost of living crisis

How to buy a kitchen during a cost of living crisis

With price rises looming on everything from materials, appliances, fixtures and fittings, energy to food – now may feel like a scary time to embark on a large renovation project. In the hopes of easing your worries, I’ve asked the experts for advice on how to buy a...

read more
Kitchen Island – Do I have enough space?

Kitchen Island – Do I have enough space?

Do you have enough room for a kitchen island Do you have enough space in your kitchen without an island making you feel cramped and constricted? Kitchen Island size is important. A kitchen island is a dreamy wish list item for most of us. Who wouldn’t want a central...

read more
Kitchen Design Tips

Kitchen Design Tips

Looking to redesign your kitchen but not sure where to start? You're definitely not alone. A kitchen renovation can be a major undertaking, but it's also a great way to create a space that perfectly suits your needs and style. When it comes time to design your new...

read more
Kitchen planning allowing for changes in circumstances

Kitchen planning allowing for changes in circumstances

When it comes to designing your kitchen, what is your vision for the future? Do you want a space that is timeless and can be enjoyed for years to come? Or are you looking for a more contemporary design that will reflect your current lifestyle? While it's important to...

read more
6 Ideas for Creating a Modern Kitchen in a Country Home

6 Ideas for Creating a Modern Kitchen in a Country Home

These contemporary cook spaces stylishly subvert the stereotypical country kitchen while still being welcoming. Another one of our series of Blogs called “Ask the Experts” and this one is by Kate Burt part of the Houzz editorial team. What do you picture when you hear...

read more
Help in designing a Kitchen

Help in designing a Kitchen

Most people would let the designer prepare your project for you, but remember this is your house and it must suit your needs, so although the designer may have years of experience designing kitchens they have never worked in your kitchen, so with your input you can...

read more
How to Incorporate Metallics into Your Kitchen

How to Incorporate Metallics into Your Kitchen

Another of our series of Blogs called “Ask the Experts” and this one is by Sarah Preece a Houzz contributor. Metallics are definitely having their moment. From stainless steel to copper to brass, metallic finishes have been elevated to luxe status. Metallic finishes...

read more
Which is the best Instant Hot water tap

Which is the best Instant Hot water tap

As the name suggests, boiling-water taps provide instant hot water without the need to switch on the kettle or boil a pan on the hob. They can be a smart and handy solution if you want to streamline your kitchen surfaces, or find using the kettle a hassle....

read more
IF I WERE THE CUSTOMER!

IF I WERE THE CUSTOMER!

My profile is that I am a 50 plus female who now works for an Independent company that up until 2 years ago I had very little knowledge of. With the knowledge I now have of the Independent Company I looked at what was my previous perception of buying from an...

read more
What is a broken plan kitchen layout?

What is a broken plan kitchen layout?

For many of us, our kitchen is right at the heart of our homes. With so much cooking and socialising taking place in this space, you’re bound to want to ensure it looks its best. Replacing the free flow of an open plan kitchen, a broken plan style splits up separate...

read more
Working the Room – What’s popular in kitchens now…..

Working the Room – What’s popular in kitchens now…..

Another of our series of Blogs called “Ask the Experts” and this one is by Gwendolyn Purdom a Houzz contributor. Whether it’s a splash of colour in the cabinets, a champagne-brass drawer pull or a wall of open shelving, the kitchen ideas homeowners and designers are...

read more
Questions you need to ask before you plan a new Kitchen

Questions you need to ask before you plan a new Kitchen

Another of our series of Blogs called “Ask the Experts” and this one is by Katie Levell a Houzz contributor. A kitchen renovation can seem daunting at the outset, simply because there are so many elements involved in getting it right. It’s not just about creating a...

read more
How much does a Kitchen cost?

How much does a Kitchen cost?

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

read more
Decisions to be made before buying your Kitchen

Decisions to be made before buying your Kitchen

After many hours of research you have chosen the company from whom you would like to buy your kitchen from. You feel comfortable that you would be happy with the service they will supply be it supply and the installation or supply only. You will now need to re-address...

read more
Changing the colour, changes the feel

Changing the colour, changes the feel

Kitchen Case Study The Brief Our clients are a retired couple living in Kings Hill, West Malling, they had a modern house with a fairly new kitchen however they were disappointed with the quality of the kitchen and the finish of the doors. They wanted a radical change...

read more
Do you really need a new Kitchen?

Do you really need a new Kitchen?

Do you feel that your kitchen just needs to be freshened up, it feels a little dated and you would like it to be more functional? So how do you go about it and is it possible? Popular press is full of adverts of companies that can transform your kitchen in a couple of...

read more
Choosing your new Kitchen Appliances

Choosing your new Kitchen Appliances

Always choose the best kitchen appliances you can afford as named brands always add value. Brands such as Bosch, Siemens and Neff inspire confidence and reinforce your pride in your property. A good looking kitchen appliance always will enhance the space and having a...

read more
Choosing your Kitchen Flooring

Choosing your Kitchen Flooring

Don’t forget the floor finish it is the largest area of colour in your kitchen and so it is a very important part of the overall design. Whatever materials you use for your kitchen flooring, from vinyl sheet to natural stone ensure that it does not compete with the...

read more
Choosing your Kitchen Worktops

Choosing your Kitchen Worktops

The Importance of Kitchen Worktops For your work surfaces all solid surfaces will elevate the value of your kitchen. Irrespective of the style of kitchen the durability and appearance of these surfaces means that objections from prospective purchasers are rare. If you...

read more
Choosing the right Kitchen Sink & Taps

Choosing the right Kitchen Sink & Taps

It is important to choose high quality taps and sinks, inferior sinks mark and scratch easily. Taps and sinks are the centre point of any kitchen, so a good looking tap provides a good impact visually combined with an attractive sink reinforces the pedigree of your...

read more
Choosing your new Kitchen Lighting

Choosing your new Kitchen Lighting

Good lighting is crucial. Make sure that you have installed good lighting that can illuminate different areas of your kitchen for different usage. There is nothing worse than poor lighting in a kitchen, leaving working areas in the dark and also being unable to create...

read more
10 Big Kitchen trends for 2023 onwards

10 Big Kitchen trends for 2023 onwards

From concealed breakfast stations to playful pink hues... Pink kitchens, reeded glass cabinets and freestanding furniture are some of the biggest kitchen trends for 2023/2024. As the role of the kitchen continues to evolve, bespoke designs, colour preferences and a...

read more
Where to go for your Kitchen Improvements

Where to go for your Kitchen Improvements

Today's current economic climate is making it very difficult for people to sell their homes and move up to the property ladder. Selling can be quite easy but buying not so easy. This in mind, many people are spending money to make money, and in the property market...

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
How to buy a kitchen during a cost of living crisis

How to buy a kitchen during a cost of living crisis

With price rises looming on everything from materials, appliances, fixtures and fittings, energy to food – now may feel like a scary time to embark on a large renovation project. In the hopes of easing your worries, I’ve asked the experts for advice on how to buy a...

read more
Kitchen Island – Do I have enough space?

Kitchen Island – Do I have enough space?

Do you have enough room for a kitchen island Do you have enough space in your kitchen without an island making you feel cramped and constricted? Kitchen Island size is important. A kitchen island is a dreamy wish list item for most of us. Who wouldn’t want a central...

read more
Kitchen Design Tips

Kitchen Design Tips

Looking to redesign your kitchen but not sure where to start? You're definitely not alone. A kitchen renovation can be a major undertaking, but it's also a great way to create a space that perfectly suits your needs and style. When it comes time to design your new...

read more
Kitchen planning allowing for changes in circumstances

Kitchen planning allowing for changes in circumstances

When it comes to designing your kitchen, what is your vision for the future? Do you want a space that is timeless and can be enjoyed for years to come? Or are you looking for a more contemporary design that will reflect your current lifestyle? While it's important to...

read more
6 Ideas for Creating a Modern Kitchen in a Country Home

6 Ideas for Creating a Modern Kitchen in a Country Home

These contemporary cook spaces stylishly subvert the stereotypical country kitchen while still being welcoming. Another one of our series of Blogs called “Ask the Experts” and this one is by Kate Burt part of the Houzz editorial team. What do you picture when you hear...

read more
Help in designing a Kitchen

Help in designing a Kitchen

Most people would let the designer prepare your project for you, but remember this is your house and it must suit your needs, so although the designer may have years of experience designing kitchens they have never worked in your kitchen, so with your input you can...

read more
How to Incorporate Metallics into Your Kitchen

How to Incorporate Metallics into Your Kitchen

Another of our series of Blogs called “Ask the Experts” and this one is by Sarah Preece a Houzz contributor. Metallics are definitely having their moment. From stainless steel to copper to brass, metallic finishes have been elevated to luxe status. Metallic finishes...

read more
Which is the best Instant Hot water tap

Which is the best Instant Hot water tap

As the name suggests, boiling-water taps provide instant hot water without the need to switch on the kettle or boil a pan on the hob. They can be a smart and handy solution if you want to streamline your kitchen surfaces, or find using the kettle a hassle....

read more
IF I WERE THE CUSTOMER!

IF I WERE THE CUSTOMER!

My profile is that I am a 50 plus female who now works for an Independent company that up until 2 years ago I had very little knowledge of. With the knowledge I now have of the Independent Company I looked at what was my previous perception of buying from an...

read more
What is a broken plan kitchen layout?

What is a broken plan kitchen layout?

For many of us, our kitchen is right at the heart of our homes. With so much cooking and socialising taking place in this space, you’re bound to want to ensure it looks its best. Replacing the free flow of an open plan kitchen, a broken plan style splits up separate...

read more
Working the Room – What’s popular in kitchens now…..

Working the Room – What’s popular in kitchens now…..

Another of our series of Blogs called “Ask the Experts” and this one is by Gwendolyn Purdom a Houzz contributor. Whether it’s a splash of colour in the cabinets, a champagne-brass drawer pull or a wall of open shelving, the kitchen ideas homeowners and designers are...

read more
Questions you need to ask before you plan a new Kitchen

Questions you need to ask before you plan a new Kitchen

Another of our series of Blogs called “Ask the Experts” and this one is by Katie Levell a Houzz contributor. A kitchen renovation can seem daunting at the outset, simply because there are so many elements involved in getting it right. It’s not just about creating a...

read more
How much does a Kitchen cost?

How much does a Kitchen cost?

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

read more
Decisions to be made before buying your Kitchen

Decisions to be made before buying your Kitchen

After many hours of research you have chosen the company from whom you would like to buy your kitchen from. You feel comfortable that you would be happy with the service they will supply be it supply and the installation or supply only. You will now need to re-address...

read more
Changing the colour, changes the feel

Changing the colour, changes the feel

Kitchen Case Study The Brief Our clients are a retired couple living in Kings Hill, West Malling, they had a modern house with a fairly new kitchen however they were disappointed with the quality of the kitchen and the finish of the doors. They wanted a radical change...

read more
Do you really need a new Kitchen?

Do you really need a new Kitchen?

Do you feel that your kitchen just needs to be freshened up, it feels a little dated and you would like it to be more functional? So how do you go about it and is it possible? Popular press is full of adverts of companies that can transform your kitchen in a couple of...

read more
Choosing your new Kitchen Appliances

Choosing your new Kitchen Appliances

Always choose the best kitchen appliances you can afford as named brands always add value. Brands such as Bosch, Siemens and Neff inspire confidence and reinforce your pride in your property. A good looking kitchen appliance always will enhance the space and having a...

read more
Choosing your Kitchen Flooring

Choosing your Kitchen Flooring

Don’t forget the floor finish it is the largest area of colour in your kitchen and so it is a very important part of the overall design. Whatever materials you use for your kitchen flooring, from vinyl sheet to natural stone ensure that it does not compete with the...

read more
Choosing your Kitchen Worktops

Choosing your Kitchen Worktops

The Importance of Kitchen Worktops For your work surfaces all solid surfaces will elevate the value of your kitchen. Irrespective of the style of kitchen the durability and appearance of these surfaces means that objections from prospective purchasers are rare. If you...

read more
Choosing the right Kitchen Sink & Taps

Choosing the right Kitchen Sink & Taps

It is important to choose high quality taps and sinks, inferior sinks mark and scratch easily. Taps and sinks are the centre point of any kitchen, so a good looking tap provides a good impact visually combined with an attractive sink reinforces the pedigree of your...

read more
Choosing your new Kitchen Lighting

Choosing your new Kitchen Lighting

Good lighting is crucial. Make sure that you have installed good lighting that can illuminate different areas of your kitchen for different usage. There is nothing worse than poor lighting in a kitchen, leaving working areas in the dark and also being unable to create...

read more

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