The designer: Roula Rahmeh at Schmidt Solihull

The story: Schmidt Solihull is owned by husband and wife team Mark and Shelly. Their ethos is simple – to treat every customer the same way they would want to be treated if investing in their own kitchen or interior solutions project.

Their design service is free without obligation and every design is tailor-made for each individual client.

Designer Q&A:

Q) What was your brief?

The client’s main concern from the outset was how to work with a prominent curved wall in the space – precisely where all the tall housings were intended to go. They approached Schmidt because they knew about our Giro-Line and Moon-Line ranges, which offer curved cabinet doors, and hoped these could help overcome the challenge. They were also drawn to our front-of-house window kitchen in Black Soft and the dramatic Orinocco granite worktop, which had already inspired their aesthetic direction.

Q) How did you answer that brief?

While curved cabinetry is an option at Schmidt, a closer look at the floor plan revealed we could achieve the same flowing effect using standard straight-door cabinets. By introducing subtle joints between units and carefully rotating each one, we were able to follow the natural curve of the wall beautifully – without the need for bespoke curved doors. This approach delivered the seamless look the clients had envisioned while maintaining full functionality and budget efficiency.

Q) Which products did you use and why?

We used Schmidt’s standard tall housings in a Black Soft finish, paired with the stunning Granite Orinocco worksurface from Cosentino. The rich movement of the granite complemented the sleek cabinetry and helped unify the palette effortlessly. Appliances were selected from BORA and Neff for their performance and clean integration while a Blanco sink and tap provided a durable, stylish finishing touch.

Q: Was any building or renovation work involved?

Yes. The client came to us via an architectural studio I had worked with on a previous project, and they were responsible for the construction phase, which included renovating the existing kitchen and building an extension. I collaborated with them throughout the process to ensure the kitchen was truly made-to-measure and fully aligned with both their architectural plans and the client’s functional needs.

Q) Which design elements do you think make the scheme so successful?

Two key elements really define this project – the curved layout and the refined materials palette. Together they create an elegant, cohesive and visually striking space that feels entirely unique to the client and the architecture of the home.

Q) Any advice for anyone who may be planning their own kitchen?

Nothing is impossible. With Schmidt’s made-to-measure ranges and our bespoke interior solutions, almost any dream kitchen can be brought to life. My biggest piece of advice is to involve your kitchen designer early – this allows us to provide precise details to your builders and ensure the space is fully prepared to make everything you want achievable.

The details

Kitchen by Schmidt Solihull

Worksurfaces by Cosentino

Appliances by BORA and Neff

Sink and tap by Blanco

Hayley loves: how this design works beautifully with the architecture of the property.