Skip to content
Each year, the KBSA holds their Designer Awards, to celebrate the top talent in kitchen, bathroom and bedroom design. This year, we’re thrilled to announce that our very own Jansen Ma has been shortlisted for Kitchen Concept Designer of the Year. Here’s the design that got him there…
Jansen’s design rationale
For Libby and Stephen, a young couple on the brink of building their future, this kitchen is more than a functional space, it’s the heart of their home, thoughtfully designed to grow with them as they begin their family journey. A handleless aesthetic sets the tone for sleek sophistication, allowing the materials to shine. Rich oak, warm antique brass, and soft-glowing glass are layered together to create a luxurious and inviting atmosphere, evoking a sense of calm and timeless style.
The main kitchen area is strategically placed by the window, drawing in natural light that bathes the space throughout the day. This not only highlights the natural beauty of the materials but also ensures a bright, cheerful workspace. The layout flows seamlessly from the entrance to the rear garden doors, promoting intuitive movement and making everyday use feel effortless.
At the heart of the design lies a striking peninsula, where function meets form. Its oak surface gently transitions from worktop height to table height, inviting conversation and connection. The lowered section, with its soft-rounded edges, is child-friendly, perfect for crafts, snacks, or future homework sessions. This is a kitchen designed not just for cooking, but for living.
Modern family life is supported by state-of-the-art appliances, carefully chosen for their practicality and elegance. A full steam oven is ideal for sterilising baby bottles, while the combi microwave oven provides versatile cooking options. A generously sized fridge and freezer allow for bulk storage of fresh, healthy foods, an essential for growing families.
Across the room, a grand dining table awaits, comfortably seating twelve or more, perfect choice for those who love to host and gather. Adjacent to this social hub are cleverly concealed utility and pantry areas, hidden behind bespoke bi-folding larder doors. This thoughtful design allows essential spaces to disappear when not in use, maintaining the visual serenity of the open-plan space while also reducing noise from appliances like the washing machine and tumble dryer.
Every inch of the utility space has been considered, from ironing board and vacuum storage to dry goods, baskets, and even a compact sink for rinsing clothes or emptying the dryer’s water tank. Nothing is accidental; everything has purpose.
The palette complements the contemporary home, with micro cement flooring anchoring the space in a modern, minimalist aesthetic. Standout features like the oak waterfall worktop, cladded canopy extractor, antique mirrored splashback, and solid stone countertops create a rich sensory experience. These tactile materials lend a handcrafted feel, while advanced appliances subtly reinforce the high-spec luxury of the design.
This kitchen isn’t just built for today, it’s imagined for tomorrow. It’s a space that adapts, welcomes, supports, and impresses. For Libby and Stephen, it’s the beginning of something beautiful and for the judges I hope I’ve showcased thoughtful thinking to tackle the brief.
Meet Jansen: the designer behind the concept
Jansen has been in the kitchen industry for nearly 10 years. He initially started as a customer advisor, before moving into CAD design. Since joining the Elements team as a CAD specialist in 2023, Jansen has gone from strength to strength and is now moving from CAD design into sales.
His previous studies in aeronautical engineering at the University of Bristol, helped him to hone his attention to detail and love of aesthetics. These skills have been invaluable in helping him to excel in his kitchen design career, as he’s able to beautifully balance the technical side of kitchens with the aesthetic finish.
At Elements Kitchens, we believe the kitchen should be the heart of every home – beautifully designed, highly functional, and tailored to your lifestyle. Contact us to visit our showroom and find out more.
