Name: Annie Krantz
Company: Katie Brown Kitchens
Position within company: Director
Website: https://katieb.co.uk/
How would you describe your personal design style?
I’d describe my style as luxurious and classic. I love designs that are timeless and never go out of fashion. Blending simplicity with sophistication can be really difficult in kitchen design – character is important, but too much can make a kitchen feel cluttered or disjointed. This is why I love incorporating statement pieces or focal points, such as mantels, into my designs, and I have a particular fondness for Shaker-style cabinetry.
I also try to incorporate different textures into my designs. Contrasting materials, such as smooth marble countertops juxtaposed with wooden cabinetry, create visual interest and tactile richness. Introducing metallic finishes, like stainless steel appliances or polished brass fixtures, adds a touch of opulence and sophistication. These combinations enhance the luxurious feel of the space, providing both visual intrigue and depth.
Together, these attributes inject a sense of class and elegance into any space, without making it appear too gaudy or flashy. By striking this balance, myself and the other designers at Katie Brown Kitchens create spaces that exude luxury and character while retaining their appeal over time.
What projects are you currently working on?
We often work on older properties, where our designs need to be in-keeping with the existing character of the building. However, we’re currently working on a number of new-build projects with a view to creating innovative designs, from site plan to completion. This has allowed us to fully exercise our project management skills, working with architects and builders to lay the foundations for a spectacular open-plan space.
What are your aims and goals for the next twelve months?
We’ve just moved into a brand-new design studio. Over the upcoming months, we’ll be putting the finishing touches on our stunning showroom kitchen to showcase our designs to prospective clients. In the long term, we plan to open up a second design studio outside of Lincoln. We’ll be putting preliminary plans together to work towards this goal over the next year.