2018 Architecture Awards

2018 Architecture Awards Build 41 rawing on its experience in the kitchen design industry, Kihini aims to offer its clients a unique service which is the antithesis of the mass-produced solutions that many larger firms provide. Christopher explores how his firm works to create bespoke solutions tailored to the individual requirements of each individual client to ensure satisfaction. “Here at Kihini a key aspect of our design process is breaking down consumer pre-conceptions and challenging those ideas to engage the customer in the design process. We work closely with our clients from the beginning so that we can truly understand what they and their space need, to not only function but to enhance the way they interact with the space, making daily routines easier and more enjoyable. “As such, when designing any space, the same basic criteria are important, aesthetics, function and cost, in various degrees of importance, but no other space in a residential setting require such levels of multifunctionality. This is what gets us out of bed in a morning at Kihini; working and re- working those designs to achieve clean lines, functional spaces and satisfied clients.” The firm’s collaborative approach extends beyond just its clients and through to Kihini’s industry peers and suppliers as well, so that the firm can offer its customers high quality solutions. Christopher discusses the firm’s suppliers in more detail and shares how they work together for the benefit of Kihini’s valued clients. “As part of the process of ensuring we give our customers the best service we can, we have chosen our partners very carefully. From the software we use to communicate our designs to the furniture we install. In construction not everything goes to plan, but it is how you deal with an issue that the customer remembers or forgets. For this reason, we chose to work with AEG appliances who not only produce an excellent range of equipment, from chef inspired Sous-vide steam ovens to brilliant laundry equipment and great after care. “Additionally, our furniture is manufactured in the UK by Masterclass Kitchens, giving us a massive advantage over our European counterparts in terms of cost and logistics, without compromising on design or quality. This has proved very popular with our clients, who value the reduction on environmental impact and the support to the UK economy. They produce beautifully made to order furniture with stunning finishes but in a clean factory environment, which means we can provide great levels of individuality to our clients with quality control, with prompt service should any issues arise.” Having expounded on the virtues of a collaborative approach in great detail, in his concluding comments Christopher outlines how these relationships will help drive Kihini to even greater success over the years to come. “Ultimately, our suppliers have both been brilliant partners and helped support our business over the past two and a half years, and along with our customers, they give us real positivity for the future of our business. They also inspire our designs, and we are looking forward to unveiling new creations in the future which will enhance our clients’ homes and lives.” Best Independent Kitchen & Interior Design Practice - East Midlands & Yorkshire & Best UK Living Space Design Project: Ablet Kihini Kitchen Studio is a small independent design studio, with an emphasis on listening and communicating with its customers to ensure that they receive the solution they need. We invited Christopher Rose to share an insight into how the firm works to create successful outcomes to every project it undertakes thanks to this collaborative approach. D AR180097 Company: Kihini Kitchen Studio Contact: Christopher Rose Address: 26 London Road, Retford Nottinghamshire, DN22 6AY, UK Phone: 01777 707656 Website: www.kihini.co.uk