Kirstie Smith Shortlisted For Young Designer Of The Year
We’re absolutely delighted to announce that Classic Interiors’ very own Kirstie Smith has been nominated for the KBSA’s Young Designer Of The Year 2019.
Kirstie’s nomination couldn’t be any more deserved and is a complete testament to her hard work, dedication and the inspiring designs which she has created over the last couple of years. Since joining, Kirstie has been an integral part of the Classic Interiors team and we couldn’t be any prouder of her.
What are the KBSA Designer Awards?
The KBSA Designer Awards recognise the most talented and stand-out kitchen & bathroom designers from from across the UK. They are established as one of the most prestigious awards in the industry and are the only awards which are voted for by a trade association that is completely dedicated to the independent kitchen and bathroom retailer market. Being shortlisted for a KBSA Designer Award is a huge achievement and only something which a select few in the industry ever achieve.
More About Kirstie…
Kirstie is based out of our Solihull Showroom. She joined Classic Interiors back in 2017 after re-locating from The North West having previously worked for Merilyn Phillips. Since then she’s become an important part of the Classic Interiors’ team and has become one of our most respected designers.
Q&A with Kirstie…
We asked Kirstie a few questions. Here’s what she said…
Q: What’s your favourite thing about being a kitchen designer?
A: I think my favourite thing would be the fact that each kitchen and customer is completely different – every project is exciting and comes with its own unique challenges. I also absolutely love people and so dealing one-to-one with clients is a hugely fun part of my job. Most importantly though, each new project means another opportunity for me to do what I love most – designing!
Q: Is there a particular project you’ve worked on or a client you’ve worked with recently that really stands out for you?
A: Gosh, I have loved every single one of my latest projects/clients! I joke with my colleagues that I want to become best friends with some of my customers! The kitchen that I entered for the Young Designer Award would definitely be up at the top of the list in terms of design as it was a huge room needing a lot to fill it, including 4 single ovens, 2 dishwashers and plenty of storage as per the customer’s request. They also wanted a gorgeous bar area, fireplace storage, extra larders and a utility all to match the kitchen. The kitchen units were in a finish that wasn’t as common as other colours normally chosen by our customers and it all looked absolutely breathtaking in the end!
I would also have to say that the kitchen I designed for a young couple about the same age as me would also be up there too – it was my second choice for the award entry. They wanted pocket doors, wifi-connect ovens and a really gorgeous combination of colours (dark grey, dark wood & concrete) to create a more industrial look and feel so it was a really interesting and fun design to work on with a couple who felt just like friends!
Q: Where do you get your inspiration from when designing a new kitchen project?
A: It’s hard to say – having worked in kitchen design for 6 years I think I have just accumulated a catalogue of ideas and colour ways that are now banked in my head! I love using websites like Pinterest, visits to shows like KBB or manufacturers’ showrooms plus interior design programs on TV (Changing Rooms’ was my favourite TV show as a child!). It also helps working with other amazing designers whom I can bounce ideas off and ask for help if I’m struggling with a space – we make a great team!
Q: What kitchen trends should we be looking out for in 2019?
A: Blues are very popular at the moment, be both light and dark, however I think dark greens will be the next big trend – or at least I hope they will! I’m also predicting that metallic colours will become a big thing for 2019 too. There are some gorgeous oxidised/rusted coppers and irons out there!
Q: What’s the one thing you couldn’t live without in your own kitchen?
A: I’d have to say the Quooker boiling hot water tap in terms of appliances (especially with a new born baby!) or clever storage solutions like pull-out larders.
If you’d like to find out more about how Kirstie and our other expert designers here at Classic Interiors can help you with your kitchen project, don’t hesitate to get in touch. You can contact us now by calling 0121 405 1240 or by clicking here.
