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When people think about a sustainable kitchen, they often think about recycled materials or energy-efficient appliances. While these are important, we believe sustainability starts much earlier, with thoughtful design, responsible manufacturing and creating kitchens that are built to last.
That’s why we’re incredibly proud of our partnership with the National Trust. Together, we’ve created the National Trust Kitchen Collection by Symphony – the first-ever fitted kitchen collaboration with the National Trust. It’s a collection inspired by Britain’s heritage that also helps protect its future, with every kitchen supporting woodland restoration projects at Hardcastle Crags in West Yorkshire.

What makes a kitchen that incorporates sustainability considerations?
We believe a truly sustainable kitchen goes beyond the products you see in your home. It’s about the choices made throughout the design, manufacturing and supply process, alongside creating furniture that stands the test of time.
Sustainability is an important part of how we design and manufacture our kitchens. We focus on producing high-quality fitted kitchens that combine timeless design with lasting performance, helping homeowners invest in spaces they’ll enjoy for years to come.
Our collaboration with the National Trust builds on that commitment, as we will donate funds from sales of the collection, with a minimum commitment of £50,000, to support woodland management – ensuring every kitchen purchased from the National Trust Kitchen Collection also contributes towards protecting Britain’s natural landscapes.
Why we partnered with the National Trust
As the UK’s largest privately owned fitted furniture manufacturer, we’re always looking for meaningful ways to reduce our environmental impact and support the communities around us.
Partnering with the National Trust – the largest conservation charity in Europe – was a natural fit.
Together, we’ve created a kitchen collection inspired by some of Britain’s most iconic historic homes while supporting practical conservation work that will benefit future generations.
It’s a partnership built on shared values:
How does buying a National Trust Kitchen help Britain’s woodlands?
One of the most rewarding aspects of this collaboration is knowing that every National Trust Kitchen purchased helps support woodland management projects at Hardcastle Crags, our local National Trust site in West Yorkshire.
Through sales of the collection, a minimum of £50,000 will be donated to support conservation work that protects one of Yorkshire’s most treasured woodland landscapes.
This vital work includes:

These projects don’t just benefit wildlife – they help strengthen ecosystems, improve climate resilience and preserve these special places for generations to come.
For us, this partnership demonstrates how great design can also create a positive environmental impact.

Heritage-inspired kitchens designed to last
The National Trust Kitchen Collection has been inspired by eight beautiful National Trust properties, capturing the character, craftsmanship and timeless detailing found in Britain’s historic homes.
Each kitchen belongs to one of three carefully curated collections:

From elegant painted cabinetry to beautifully considered proportions, every design has been created to bring heritage-inspired style into modern homes.
We believe longevity is one of the most important elements of sustainability. By creating kitchens with enduring appeal rather than following short-term trends, we’re helping homeowners invest in furniture they’ll love for years.
What makes the National Trust Kitchen Collection sustainably considered?
Our partnership with the National Trust is just one example of our wider commitment to sustainability.
Whether we’re investing in responsible manufacturing, designing kitchens that are built to last or supporting local conservation projects, we’re always looking for ways to reduce our environmental impact while delivering exceptional quality for our customers.
The National Trust Kitchen Collection brings these ambitions together in one beautifully crafted range, combining timeless British design with meaningful environmental action.

Discover the National Trust Kitchen Collection
If you’re looking for a sustainable kitchen that combines heritage-inspired design with lasting quality, the National Trust Kitchen Collection offers something truly unique.
Every kitchen purchased helps support woodland restoration at Hardcastle Crags while bringing timeless British craftsmanship into your home.

Explore the National Trust Kitchen Collection and discover how choosing your next kitchen can help protect Britain’s natural heritage for generations to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes a kitchen sustainable?
We believe a more sustainable kitchen considers longevity, manufacturing practices and environmental impact throughout its lifecycle. At Symphony, we believe sustainability means creating high-quality kitchens that are built to last while supporting initiatives that protect the natural world. Our National Trust Kitchen Collection reflects this approach by combining timeless design with a commitment to woodland conservation.
Why does choosing a sustainable kitchen matter?
A kitchen is one of the biggest long-term investments in any home. Choosing a sustainable kitchen helps reduce environmental impact by prioritising durability, responsible manufacturing and timeless design over short-term trends. It also supports a more conscious approach to home improvement, where quality, longevity and environmental responsibility are considered together.
Why are sustainable kitchens becoming more popular?
More homeowners are looking for ways to reduce their environmental impact without compromising on style or quality. Choosing a sustainable kitchen can mean investing in durable furniture, selecting timeless designs that won’t need replacing and supporting manufacturers that are committed to responsible practices. We believe sustainability should be considered throughout the entire lifecycle of a kitchen, from design and manufacturing to longevity and environmental responsibility.
How can I make my kitchen more environmentally friendly?
There are many ways to create a more sustainable kitchen. Choosing high-quality cabinetry that’s built to last is a great place to start, alongside selecting energy-efficient appliances, reducing waste, recycling where possible and using responsibly sourced materials. Investing in timeless designs rather than following short-term trends can also help reduce the need for future renovations, making your kitchen a more sustainable space for years to come.
How does the National Trust Kitchen Collection support sustainability?
Every kitchen purchased from the National Trust Kitchen Collection by Symphony helps fund woodland management projects at Hardcastle Crags in West Yorkshire. Through sales of the collection, a minimum of £50,000 will be donated to support conservation work, including restoring native woodland, improving biodiversity, removing invasive species and planting new trees where needed.
Is choosing a long-lasting kitchen more sustainable?
Yes. One of the most sustainable home choices you can make is investing in a well-designed kitchen that stands the test of time. Durable, timeless kitchens reduce the need for replacement, helping to minimise waste and encourage more sustainable home improvements.
Where does the National Trust Kitchen Collection support conservation?
The collection supports woodland management at Hardcastle Crags, a National Trust site in West Yorkshire with over 400 acres of woodland. Conservation work includes restoring native habitats, improving biodiversity, supporting wildlife and helping the landscape become more resilient to climate change.
Where can I view the National Trust Kitchen Collection?
You can explore the full National Trust Kitchen Collection by Symphony online, download the brochure or visit your local Huws Gray to experience the range in person and discover how each kitchen combines timeless design with a commitment to sustainability.
On 27 August 2026, Symphony Group turns 55. Five years ago we marked our 50th anniversary by looking back over half a century of building trusted, quality fitted kitchens and bedrooms. This time, we’re keeping the history short, because the real story is what’s happened since – a validated route to net zero, a £30 million expansion of our Barnsley factory and a new chapter of ownership that keeps our founding values firmly in place.
Founded in 1971, Symphony is now the UK’s largest privately-owned manufacturer of fitted kitchen and bedroom furniture. 55 years on, we employ more than 1,900 people across three manufacturing and distribution sites in Yorkshire, produce around 3,000 kitchens every week and supply kitchens to retailers and housing developers across the UK.
Symphony has been built on our founding principles of excellent service, customers first, partnership with our suppliers, nurturing our people and a duty of care to the environment. These values have carried us through our move to a state-of-the-art factory and head office in Barnsley in 2008, the growth of a family of trusted brands – Gallery, Linear and Freedom for kitchens and Urbano for bedrooms – and in 2015, a successful partnership with Laura Ashley, which has brought the Laura Ashley Kitchen and Fitted Bedroom Collections into homes across the country.
Since our 50th anniversary in August 2021, we haven’t slowed down. The last five years have been some of the most transformative in Symphony’s history. Here’s what’s changed.
In 2025, Belfast-based W&R Barnett acquired a majority shareholding in the Symphony Group. Founded in 1896, W&R Barnett is a fourth-generation family business that has grown from its origins as a grain merchant in Northern Ireland into a group of commodity trading and industrial businesses – a heritage that mirrors Symphony’s own journey from a family business in Leeds to a market-leading national manufacturer.
The two businesses share many of the same core values, including a commitment to employee welfare, excellent customer service, innovation and an appetite for growth.
That shared commitment to people is already visible in one of the new partnership’s first initiatives: a charity matching scheme through which W&R Barnett doubles the money raised by Symphony employees for charity, giving even greater impact to the fundraising our teams already do for good causes across Yorkshire and beyond.
Manufacturing capacity has grown to match our future ambitions. We’ve completed a 300,000 sq ft extension to our headquarters at the Pen Hill Estate in Barnsley in 2023 – a £30 million investment that takes our total manufacturing and distribution footprint to 1.3 million sq ft.
That enhanced capability has allowed us to produce our latest worktop collections from the new facility. The extra capacity gives a wider choice of on-trend decors, extended worktop lengths and complementary splashbacks and upstands.
Whatever the wider economic climate, this investment reflects our confidence in the business, in our loyal customers and in the future of British manufacturing.

In 2025 we launched our most ambitious sustainability strategy to date: Sustainability Strategy 2025, In Harmony with the Planet. It formalises our environmental, social and governance (ESG) commitments and sets out measurable targets rather than just good intentions.
Highlights from the last five years include:
These sit alongside long-standing commitments: our partnership with The Used Kitchen Company to recycle replaced kitchens, Gold membership of the Supply Chain Sustainability School and our continued support for the Yorkshire Wildlife Trust as Gold Corporate Members.
August 2026 will see Symphony deliver its most significant sustainability milestone of all. Symphony Group has approved near- and long-term science-based emissions reduction targets with the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi), along with verification of our net-zero science-based target for 2050.
Here’s what we’ve committed to and had validated:
Near-term (from a 2023 base year):
Long-term (from a 2023 base year):
In line with the SBTi Net-Zero Standard, we’ll prioritise cutting our own emissions first, only neutralising any unavoidable residual emissions once we reach our long-term target in 2050. You can read our full strategy here.

Langdale Fern Green
In February 2026, we added a new chapter to our brand story. The National Trust Kitchen Collection by Symphony launched in collaboration with the National Trust – Europe’s largest conservation charity – marking the first-ever fitted kitchen collaboration in the National Trust’s history. The collection unites two iconic British names around a shared vision of sustainability and craftsmanship, bringing heritage, quality and timeless style into kitchens across the country.

The Leconfield
Through sales of the National Trust Kitchen Collection, a minimum of £50,000 will be given to the National Trust to support their woodland management work such as Hardcastle Crags in West Yorkshire.
Since 1971, Symphony has been guided by the same principles: supplying quality furniture with consistently excellent service, nurturing and developing our people and taking our responsibility to the environment seriously. 55 years on, with a validated net-zero pathway, an expanded factory and a new ownership structure built to support the next stage of our growth, that idea is even more future-proofed.
We’re proud of the last five years and even more excited about what comes next. Explore our kitchen and bedroom collections, or find your nearest retailer.
We are proud to share Symphony was awarded Highly Commended Bedroom Storage with Aurora.
With its subtle grain texture & thin shaker frame, the Aurora Bedroom Collection reimagines traditional bedroom furniture with a fresh, modern twist. Offered in two standard colours, Fern Green & Harbour, and 11 painted door finishes, the range compliments a variety of interiors.

With space-saving and well-considered storage, Aurora ensures a place for all your belongings. Drawer packs, dressing tables and internal wardrobe options offer a variety of solutions to suit all needs, making the most of every inch of available space.

We are proud to be recognised by such a respected interiors title as Ideal Home. This is a fantastic achievement and something that really shows our commitment to creating beautiful, innovative spaces that customers love.
For more information on the Aurora range, plase visit https://krulnexivoma.shop/range/aurora/
We are proud to share Symphony has won Ideal Home Kitchen of the Year Award 2026 with The Coleton
In collaboration with the National Trust, The Coleton is inspired by the architecture of the charity’s property, Coleton Fishacre. Capturing the Arts & Crafts style, the range reflects the elegant proportions, rich textures and refined character found in this 1920s house.

Recognised for its classically British country kitchen charm and highly customisable elements, the range brings a sense of history and timelessness into any home.
Comments from the judges included Holly Cockburn, Ideal Home’s Content Editor and kitchens expert saying ‘Heritage design and earthy colour palettes are big kitchen trends in 2026 and I’m amazed at how Symphony has combined these style points with sustainability. The soft nature of the 22 different shades will look good in any space.’

Ginevra Benedetti, Deputy Editor of Ideal Home magazine, added ‘The Coleton is one of eight new kitchen designs made in Yorkshire from 80% recycled material. This Arts & Crafts-inspired design evokes a refreshing new/old spin on a classic Shaker style.’
We are proud to be recognised by such a respected interiors title as Ideal Home. This is a fantastic achievement and something that really shows our commitment to creating beautiful, innovative spaces that customers love.
For more information on The Coleton range, please visit – National Trust – The Symphony Group PLC
Freedom by Symphony is passionate about showcasing the people behind truly inclusive kitchen design. In this interview, we speak to Mark Doble, lead designer at Moorgate Kitchens about his journey into the industry, his passion for accessible kitchens, and how thoughtful design can transform everyday life.
From multi-generational living to future-proofed homes, Mark shares his insights into creating kitchens that work for everyone without compromising on style.

Moorgate Kitchens and Mark’s Journey
Tell us a bit about Moorgate Kitchens and your background in kitchen design?
“I began my career in the kitchen design industry over 15 years ago, working closely with homeowners to understand how kitchens are not just cooking spaces, but the heart of the home. My journey has always been about combining creativity with practicality, helping clients bring their ideas to life while ensuring every design is functional and enduring.
Moorgate Kitchens is a family-run business founded 26 years ago by Stuart Harrison, with the vision of offering a personalised, end-to-end service from design and planning right through to installation. Over the years, we’ve grown into a company known for quality, craftsmanship, and attention to detail.”
A Passion for Accessible Kitchen Design
What inspired you to specialise in accessible kitchens?
“The inspiration really came from my background working with young adults with disabilities and learning difficulties. I was a coach for my local Special Olympics team, and seeing those individuals thrive and grow in confidence had a big impact on me. So when the opportunity came to get involved with Freedom, I jumped at the chance to make a difference within my own line of work. Many clients, or their family members, face mobility challenges or accessibility concerns, but they still want a kitchen that feels stylish and high-end.
Too often, ‘accessible’ solutions have been purely functional, with little thought for design flair. We wanted to change that, to prove that accessible kitchens can be both practical and beautiful. For me personally, it’s been incredibly rewarding to design spaces that genuinely improve quality of life.”

Adapting to Inclusive and Multi-Generational Living
How has Moorgate adapted to incorporate accessible kitchens into your portfolio?
“We’ve invested in training and research to understand the specific requirements of accessible design. Our team now works with specialist suppliers to integrate innovative solutions such as height-adjustable worktops, pull-down shelving, and carefully considered layouts that accommodate wheelchair access.
At the same time, we ensure these features are seamlessly blended into the overall aesthetic, so clients never feel they have to compromise on style. Incorporating accessibility has meant expanding our portfolio to offer more thought-out solutions that are both inclusive and aspirational.”
How have you found the transition into accessible kitchen design?
“The transition has been both a challenge and a privilege. It’s required us to rethink certain aspects of design, but it’s also been incredibly rewarding to see the impact our work has on clients’ daily lives. Designing accessible kitchens has broadened our perspective as a business. It’s not just about trends and finishes but about creating spaces that empower people.”
Why Freedom by Symphony?
What sets Freedom by Symphony apart from other kitchen brands?
“Freedom is developed in collaboration with Adam Thomas, a leading voice in accessible kitchen design in the UK. Adam has over 40 years’ experience and personal insight as a wheelchair user, which helps ensure the design features really respond to real-world needs.
Its kitchens are designed with Building Regulations Approved Document-M (M4(3), Category 3: Wheelchair User Dwellings) in mind, as well as guidance from the Wheelchair Housing Design Guide. That means many features aren’t just ‘nice to have’, they’re built to meet recognised accessibility standards.”
What are the key features that make these kitchens so user-friendly?
“One of Freedom’s biggest strengths is that accessibility is built into the aesthetic, not added on. You get modern finishes, contemporary handles, colours, lighting etc., so the kitchen still looks like a high-end design.
There are also lots of features designed to reduce risk of injury or strain such as waterfall edges on worktops, heat-resistant surfaces, safe oven access like slide-and-hide doors, and front-access taps. These features consider both mobility and sensory impairments.”
How do these kitchens support both accessibility and multi-generational living?
“Many features designed for people with disabilities are also helpful for elderly users – things like less bending, easier reach, smoother surfaces, and safer materials.
That’s why accessible kitchens are often naturally multi-generational. Adjustable worktops, pull-out tables, and easy controls allow kitchens to adapt to different users, whether that’s someone using a wheelchair, an older homeowner, or a family cooking together.”

Innovation in Adaptable Kitchen Design
What are some of the most innovative features within Freedom kitchens?
“One of the things I really admire about the Freedom range is the way it brings genuinely life-changing innovations into the kitchen without compromising on style.
For me, the rise-and-fall worktops and wall units stand out as they can be adjusted at the touch of a button, which makes such a difference. I also like the Verti inside systems, which mean wall cabinets are no longer ‘out of reach’.
Then there are thoughtful details like waterfall edge worktops, front-mounted taps, and pull-out tables that create instant prep space. These touches really focus on safety, independence, and dignity in design.”
How customisable are these kitchens?
“Completely. Every client we work with has different needs, and the beauty of Freedom is that it’s built with flexibility in mind. We can adapt worktop heights, cabinet layouts, and appliance positions to suit the individual – whether they’re a wheelchair user, someone with reduced mobility, or simply looking for a more ergonomic kitchen. At the same time, there’s a wide choice of styles and finishes, so clients never feel like they’re compromising between function and design.”
Channel 4’s Beautiful Builds
You recently worked on Channel 4’s George Clarke’s Beautiful Builds. Can you tell us about that experience?
“Working with Adam and George on this project was such a unique mix of excitement and challenge. The fast-paced world of TV doesn’t wait for anyone – tight deadlines, constant pressure – every day was a race against the clock. But that’s also what made it so rewarding. There’s nothing quite like seeing everything come together just in time.”
What made this project particularly meaningful?
“Ben and his family were an absolute joy to work with. From the very start, they were relaxed, easy-going, and completely trusted Adam and me to bring their vision to life.
That trust made all the difference. In the end, we delivered not just a kitchen, but a space that truly felt like theirs.”
The project transformed a restrictive layout into a fully open-plan, accessible kitchen – complete with adjustable worktops, smart appliances, and a design that allows the whole family to cook and spend time together. It’s a powerful example of how adaptable kitchens can enhance independence while supporting modern, multi-generational living. You can view the episode here.

Designing for Real Life
Can you share an example of a challenging project and how you approached it?
“One project that really stands out was for a client who used a wheelchair and also had limited upper body strength. We used rise-and-fall worktops so they could adjust the height easily, added electric wall cabinets for accessible storage, and included a slide-and-hide oven with a pull-out shelf for safety. The end result was incredible. The client told us they felt independent in their kitchen for the first time in years. That’s what makes this work so rewarding.”

Adjustable height work surface
Advice for Planning an Accessible Kitchen
What should people consider when designing an accessible kitchen?
“The first thing I always say is to think about how the kitchen needs to work for you day-to-day. Accessibility isn’t just about making things lower or wider – it’s about making the space practical, safe and comfortable.
It’s also important to plan for the future. Needs can change over time, so flexibility like rise-and-fall units can be a real advantage.”
What advice would you give to someone just starting out?
“Don’t wait until you have to. Start thinking about accessibility early. Small, thoughtful changes now can make a huge difference later on.
And speak to specialists. Working with a company like Moorgate Kitchens means you’ll get expert guidance and a kitchen that suits your needs without sacrificing design.”
The Future of Kitchen Design
What trends are you seeing in accessible kitchen design?
“There’s definitely been a shift. Accessibility used to be seen as niche, but now more people are thinking about future-proofing their homes.
At the same time, there’s a move towards integrating accessibility into luxury design. People don’t want a kitchen that looks clinical, they want something beautiful as well as practical.
Technology is also playing a bigger role, with smart appliances and voice-activated controls making kitchens more intuitive and user-friendly.”
A final few words..
What would you like readers to take away?
“I’d like people to know that accessibility and luxury are not mutually exclusive. With the right design, you don’t have to compromise – you can have a kitchen that’s safe, practical and still every bit as beautiful as you’ve imagined. That’s the philosophy we bring to every project, and it’s why working with Freedom by Symphony has been such a great fit for us.”

Get in touch with Moorgate Kitchens
How can readers learn more or start their own kitchen project?
“The best way is to visit our showroom, where you can see and experience the design options first-hand – we find that makes all the difference.
You can also explore our website to learn more about our services and portfolio: www.moorgatekitchens.co.uk
And of course, we’re always happy to have a conversation by phone or email to discuss individual requirements:
Ultimately, we pride ourselves on making the process approachable and personal. Whether you’re just starting to explore ideas or ready to plan your new kitchen, we’re here to help guide you every step of the way.”
Accessible kitchens should be about creating inclusive, adaptable spaces that work for everyone. And as Mark Doble’s work shows, when design is done right, it doesn’t just change kitchens – it changes lives.
The last 12 months were a great year for us here at Symphony. As well as launching new colours and collections, we were also honoured and proud to be nominated for so many awards. As finalists and winners in many different categories, from customer service and sustainability to inclusive design and best kitchen furniture, we couldn’t have done it without our wonderful teams in design and production, logistics and retailers, as well as the customers and housebuilders who buy our kitchens and bedrooms for their own homes and projects. We’d like to say a huge thank you to everyone involved and take a moment to reflect on what a fantastic year 2025 was…

untypical (Tilia Homes & Hopkins Homes) – Winner – Excellence in Engagement
We were delighted to be awarded the Excellence in Engagement Award at the inaugural untypical (Tilia Homes & Hopkins Homes) Supply Chain Conference, which celebrated leading partners from across the construction industry. Our ongoing commitment to being a sustainable UK manufacturer was recognised, reflecting the collaboration, transparency and strong, sustainable partnerships that we strive to achieve across our supply chain.

Barratt East Scotland – Winner – Outstanding Customer Service
We’re proud that we’ve been a consistent supplier and valued partner of Barratt East Scotland for over 10 years, so were delighted to be recognised for our Outstanding Customer Service. A huge thank you to our amazing team.

Bellway Homes Northern Home Counties – Winner – Outstanding Contribution to Service
Many thanks to Bellway Homes Northern Home Counties for recognising our Outstanding Contribution to Service, a testament to our excellent service and swift replacement supply as well as our ongoing strong relationship with Bellway’s own customer care team.

South Yorkshire 2025 Regional Business Awards – Winner – Sustainable Manufacturer of the Year
Our Sustainability Strategy, which outlines our well-structured and measurable commitment to sustainable operations, responsible sourcing and long-term environmental stewardship across our supply chain and production facilities was recognised with the Sustainability Award in the South Yorkshire Regional Business Awards.

Ideal Home Awards – Winner – Best Small Space Design Solution
Last year, the Ideal Home panel selected our space-saving Pocket Doors as a standout product of the year, awarding it the Best Small Space Design Solution. ‘Planning for your compact kitchen space needn’t be a hassle with this brilliant use of Pocket Doors by Symphony,’ says Holly Cockburn, Ideal Home’s Content Editor. ‘This is the first time I’ve seen pocket doors used on kitchen storage, and it’s a genius creation for small spaces. It makes hiding mess away so much sleeker.’
Livingetc Style Awards – Winner – Best Space Solution
Our sleek and seamless Pocket Doors also scooped the Award for Best Space Solution at Livingetc’s Style Awards in the Projects category. ‘I’m impressed with how much flexibility they bring to a home, allowing you to reconfigure it with relative ease,’ says Livingetc’s Digital Editor Hugh Metcalf. This category was all about smart, design-forward projects that offer a fresh take on the foundations of a well-designed home, so we were delighted to win.

designerati – Winner – Inclusive Design
Celebrating creativity, craftsmanship and collaboration across the kitchen and bathroom sector, the designerati Awards recognised the very best in product and project design as well as outstanding individual achievement and brands that are redefining how design is experienced and delivered. We were thrilled to be given the Inclusive Design Award for our Freedom range, receiving special praise for our accessible and multigenerational design featuring app-controlled height-adjustable cabinetry and adaptable functionality for users of all ages and abilities.

KBB Focus – Finalist – UWLA Sustainability Initiative of the Year
We were thrilled to be a Finalist at the KBB Focus Awards & Celebration 2025, where our Wild Workdays with the Yorkshire Wildlife Trust made the finalists list for the UWLA Sustainability Initiative of the Year Award. A charity dedicated to conserving, protecting and restoring wildlife and wild places in Yorkshire, the YWT has worked with us on a range of practical projects including tree planting, meadow management and pond cleaning.

FX International Interior Design Awards – Finalist – Surfaces
At the FX International Interior Design Awards, we made the finalists list for our Décor Laminate Worktop Collection in the Surfaces category. These prestigious awards celebrate British and international design, showcasing the very best in product and project design, so we were absolutely thrilled to be finalists.
SBID International Design Awards – Finalist – Surfaces & Finishes
These global interior design awards, held by the SBID (Society of British and International Interior Design), recognise the highest standards of design skill and professional excellence from around the world. Our Décor Worktop Collection was a
Finalist in the Surfaces & Finishes category. Designed to inspire and support interior designers in creating exceptional kitchens, our Décor Laminate Worktop Collection features 26 carefully chosen decors that reflect the latest trends and customer preferences.

IER Awards – Finalist – Best Kitchen Furniture and Accessories
Our Symphony kitchen ranges were also a finalist in the Best Kitchen Furniture and Accessories category for the IER Awards. These Innovative Electrical Retailing Awards are a leading event for recognising excellence in everything from products and business pioneers to high street heroes and customer service champions, so we were thrilled to be a finalist at these prestigious Awards.

Costina Fresca with Alta Chalk White
Bringing Shaker Style to the Bedroom in a Choice of On-Trend and Classic Colours
Symphony Aurora Bedroom Range in Fern Green
Symphony, one of the UK’s largest privately-owned manufacturers of fitted bedrooms, is delighted to announce the launch of a brand-new bedroom collection – Aurora. With its subtle grain texture and slim Shaker frame, Aurora gives retailers the perfect opportunity to offer customers a blend of traditional and modern design. Available in two standard colour options – Fern Green and Harbour – along with 11 painted door finishes, Aurora has a wide choice of on-trend and classic colour palettes, ideal for creating a calm, tranquil bedroom for rest and relaxation. Whether planning a room revamp for the bedroom, updating a guest room or considering a loft conversion with master suite, Aurora is the ultimate in enduring, timeless design with storage to suit all spaces.

Symphony Aurora Bedroom Range in Fern Green
Fitted bedroom furniture is designed to make the most of every inch, especially in period properties where walls may not be perfectly straight and homeowners face the challenge of awkward alcoves and sloping ceilings. The new Aurora furniture range from Symphony brings timeless and enduring Shaker style to the bedroom with its slim Shaker frame adding a fresh, modern touch.
With generously sized wardrobes packed with optional space-saving interior solutions such as racks, rails, pull outs, open shelving, cubby holes and more, alongside matching bedside cabinets and dressing tables, the beautifully crafted Aurora range is available in two standard colours – Fern Green and Harbour – as well as 11 painted door colours – Chalk White, Clay, Platinum, Sage, Cashmere, Pearl Grey, Stone, Providence Blue, Dusky Pink, Willow and French Grey.
“We’re thrilled to launch our brand-new bedroom range, Aurora,” says Simon Collyns, Marketing and Retail Director at Symphony Group. “The bedroom has seen a surge in interest lately, as homeowners look to create the ultimate calming and tranquil retreat. Space-saving and well-considered storage is key, so we’ve ensured our new collection offers multiple methods for maximising storage, from drawer packs and dressing tables to multiple internal wardrobe options, we have solutions to suit every need.”

Symphony Aurora Range in Painted Willow

Symphony Aurora Bedroom Range in Harbour
For further information about Symphony, please visit www.krulnexivoma.shop
Featuring on: George Clarke’s Beautiful Builds, Channel 4
Location: Matlock, Derbyshire
Client: Ben White and family
Retailer: Moorgate Kitchens
Designers: Mark Doble and Adam Thomas
Kitchen Brand: Freedom by Symphony

Homeowner Ben in his new Freedom Melrose Mineral and Costina Fresca kitchen
The Show
Renowned architect, George Clarke helps people decide how to split their budgets as they refurbish two vital aspects of their home in a new show: George Clarke’s Beautiful Builds.
The Brief
When Ben White and his partner were selected to appear on George Clarke’s Beautiful Builds, they had a clear vision for their dream kitchen: stylish, accessible, and built for modern living. Ben has been a wheelchair user for 11 years following a sky diving accident during training for the national championships and knowing that Freedom by Symphony specialised in inclusive design, he reached out to renowned accessible design consultant, Adam Thomas whose work he had been following for a long time.
Design Challenges & Transformation
Ben moved into the property with his family in 2021. The original setup featured a kitchen with an island in a fairly small space and a separate dining room, which was narrow and limiting, meaning that Ben could not do much cooking. Working closely with George Clarke and the show’s production team, the design Adam Thomas proposed repositioned the kitchen, blocked off a doorway and removed the wall between the two spaces to create a large, open-plan environment that could better support freedom of movement and accessibility. To make this possible the design involved Ben agreeing to relocate a set of new sliding doors from the kitchen to the dining room, creating easier access to the outside and Ben’s new garden office.
Adam tailored every design element with accessibility and aesthetics in mind, stating:
“It was lovely working with George on and off camera. He showed genuine interest and had lightbulb moments around the topic of accessibility when I demonstrated some of the principles. I’m delighted with the result and that Ben is so happy with the kitchen.”
George even visited Adam’s own home during filming, gaining first-hand insight into accessible kitchen design in action – experiences that directly informed the final space in Matlock.
The new kitchen position brings together the eating, living, work, and play areas transforming the way Ben and his family enjoy their property.
Kitchen Features

The resulting kitchen is a showcase of elegant functionality and innovative design, tailored for Ben’s needs:

Ben with his dogs in his accessible kitchen
Collaborative Design
Retailer Moorgate Kitchens played a pivotal role, with designer Mark Doble bringing Adam’s vision to life in-store. The Freedom team, production company, and Moorgate collaborated extensively, far beyond a typical kitchen install, to ensure every detail aligned with the needs of the homeowner and the production timeline.
“Working with Adam and George on this project was such a unique mix of excitement and challenge. The fast-paced world of TV doesn’t wait for anyone, with tight deadlines and constant pressure to deliver, every day was a race against the clock. But that’s also what made it so rewarding; there’s nothing quite like the rush of seeing everything come together just in time.
Ben and his family were an absolute joy to work with. From the very start, they were relaxed, easy-going, and completely trusted Adam and me to bring their vision to life. That trust made all the difference. In the end, we delivered not just a kitchen, but a space that truly felt like theirs.”

Corian accessible work surface with integrated sink and hob
Homeowner’s Experience
Ben White, reflecting on the process in his TV interview, shared:
“Working with Freedom by Symphony was great. Throughout the process, all the way through, we were getting constant updates as to where things were at, when there would be fitting visits, when there would be more consultations, back and forth with the designs.”
“One of the benefits of good, accessible design is that it’s inclusive and is great for everyone. There’s now enough space in the kitchen for us to be cooking together as a family. We can lower the rise and fall worktop down and me and my daughter can bake. My partner, she can raise the unit up and we can have multiple people working and cooking food together whilst we’re preparing and cooking food in the kitchen space. The kids can be sitting at the breakfast bar and we can all be social as a family.”
Channel 4’s George Clarke’s Beautiful Builds
This kitchen will air as part of Channel 4’s George Clarke’s Beautiful Builds, where viewers can see the transformation unfold onscreen.
Freedom by Symphony is proud to have played a role in creating a space that isn’t just functional, it’s life-enhancing. As part of the episode, this project marks another step toward bringing inclusive design into the mainstream spotlight.

Mark Doble, Ben White, Adam Thomas and George Clarke
Freedom by Symphony, renowned for its accessible and aesthetically stunning kitchen designs, recently welcomed Tanni, Baroness Grey-Thompson to experience its latest accessible kitchen design. With a career spanning incredible Paralympic achievements and advocacy for disabled people’s rights, Tanni brings a unique and personal perspective to the world of accessible kitchen design. Her involvement underscores the transformative power of Freedom kitchens, both in enhancing home functionality and in maintaining a stylish, inclusive design ethos.
Tanni is one of Britain’s most accomplished Paralympic athletes, with a medal tally of 11 golds, 4 silvers, and 1 bronze earned over five Paralympic Games. In 2005, she was honoured as Dame Tanni Grey-Thompson for her services to sport. By 2010, she became Baroness Grey-Thompson, contributing actively as a life peer in the House of Lords. Her advocacy spans Disability Rights, Welfare Reform, and Sport.
Despite her demanding career, Tanni is a passionate cook and with her background in athletics understands the importance of nutrition more than most, meaning her kitchen plays a central role in her home life. Initially hesitant about accessible kitchens due to their typically utilitarian aesthetics, she was delighted to discover that Freedom by Symphony combined accessibility with beauty. Her personal experience with the brand and choosing her own Freedom kitchen encouraged her to raise awareness with other people of what could be achieved in a well-designed accessible kitchen today.

Tanni’s Freedom kitchen has profoundly transformed how she experiences her home. Unlike traditional accessible designs that can appear clinical or overly adapted, Freedom kitchens prioritise style alongside functionality and safety. Key features such as the rise-and-fall worktop system and waterfall edges integrate seamlessly into the kitchen’s aesthetic while providing essential adaptability. Tanni worked with Freedom’s expert design ambassador, Adam Thomas to achieve a kitchen that works for both her, friends, and family.
“Working with Adam Thomas was amazing – he’s a wheelchair user, so he gets it. He’s thinking about things that other people don’t. He was very patient in terms of showing us all the different things that were available. But the most important thing was he actually asked us how we use the kitchen. And that meant that the design that we chose has just been absolutely perfect.”

Tanni highlights several elements that have revolutionised her cooking experience:
Rise and Fall Worktop
This transformative feature allows her and her family to adjust the worktop to a practical and comfortable height, making cooking tasks like chopping and stirring safer and more accessible. Tanni comments, “whether standing or seated, short or tall, the surface can always the right height for all members of the family to use, rather than it being the traditional choice of one height or the other”

Inclusive Storage
Previously, Tanni and her husband, Ian, had separate areas at different heights in the kitchen due to differing physical needs, meaning they often doubled up on storage items. With Freedom kitchens, shared, universally accessible storage solutions have brought new harmony to their space.
Design Integrity
The kitchen’s design ensures it doesn’t look like it was tailored solely for a wheelchair user. Features like the Corian® waterfall edge and brass accents integrated into the Langdale range add timeless elegance.
Tanni says, “In my daily life the kitchen is the centre of the house, so it’s not just where we cook and eat, it’s where we spend time together as a family and it’s where I work. It’s the heart of our house, so it’s important to get everything right and it’s got to work in lots of different ways. I now just love being in my kitchen because it works for me”
“There’s a bit of a joke in our house because I’ve always been used to worksurfaces being high, and the cooker being up high, and the joke in our family now that I’ve got a worksurface that moves down, is that I can now see what I’m burning!”
Freedom by Symphony continues to innovate, recently unveiling updated and cutting-edge features that redefine accessibility and style. Some of the latest additions include:
Electric Wall Cabinets
These electric drop-down cabinets are operated at the push of a button. Available in various sizes in an anthracite colour, they are fitted with safety plates and can be linked to rise-and-fall worktops, which ensures safe operation preventing items getting trapped between the wall cabinets and work surface.

Bluetooth-Controlled Rise and Fall Worktops
An App allows users to control worktop height via their phone, with programmable pre-sets for multiple users. This design also features a new design Corian Calacatta Griege waterfall edge and integrated front and side fascias. The worktop also includes a matching reduced depth undermount sink and integrated overflow waste.
Rise and Fall Breakfast Bar
Designed to facilitate social interaction and food serving, this new unique system is designed to wrap around a breakfast bar for added accessibility, transforming the kitchen space into a social and welcoming environment to be shared with friends and family.
NEFF Smart Appliances
NEFF Slide & Hide® Ovens are recommended for their unique hide away door that is concealed beneath the oven, which eliminates the risks of the burns from the hot door when reaching into an oven. The latest designs feature flexible magnetic knob controls for ease of use and non-tip telescopic shelf runners for safe access to hot dishes. The NEFF ovens are now available to operate though an app or via a smart speaker. This enables someone to have full control of their oven for the first time, for example someone with a visual impairment or restricted hand movements can now talk to a smart speaker to operate the oven. Whilst NEFF’s full-height smart fridge opens with a push on the door or by voice command, addressing common challenges for users with limited mobility or full hands, especially for tall fridges. The door will gently open so that the user can then gain access easily.
All-in-One Hot Tap
A sleek, touch-controlled tap providing filtered hot, cold, and sparkling water, complete with a pull-out hose for added convenience. This is the first hot water tap that can be put onto a rise and fall worktop and that has a retractable pull out hose. It can even have a remote control which allows someone to fill a cup without reaching across the tap which is both safer and more ergonomic.

Tanni knows first-hand about Freedom’s commitment to creating accessible kitchens that enhance lives without compromising on style, and wants to let more people know about the benefits this type of adaptability provides for quality of life. The idea of future-proofing the kitchen space is important whatever the situation or time of life, so it can be used and enjoyed by anyone and for every stage.
Tanni’s feedback on the thoughtful design and transformational features reflects the core values of Freedom kitchens: inclusivity, beauty, and functionality. “I don’t feel like my kitchen was adapted. It feels like a kitchen that was completely designed for me.”
You can find your local Freedom Retailers at: https://krulnexivoma.shop/find-retailers/ and discover more about Freedom by Symphony by visiting: https://krulnexivoma.shop/brands/freedom/
We are excited to announce that Belfast based W&R Barnett has acquired a majority shareholding in the Symphony Group.
W&R Barnett is a fourth-generation family business committed to owning and investing in successful operating businesses and their employees. Founded in 1896, the W&R Barnett group has grown from its origins as a grain merchant in Northern Ireland to a group of commodity trading and industrial businesses across the globe.
The current beneficial owners of the Symphony Group, Doug Gregory and his family, will retain a significant share in the business and be represented at board level. Recently appointed Managing Director, Paul Whitehouse, who has been with the business for 23 years, will continue to lead the Symphony executive team.
W&R Barnett CEO William Barnett commented: ‘‘We are very excited to invest in the Symphony Group and look forward to working with the management team to continue its success and growth’’
Paul Whitehouse, Symphony Group MD, commented ‘‘W&R Barnett’s investment will place the Symphony Group in a strong position for long term success and strengthen our position as market leader. This deal will deliver security to all our stakeholders – employees, customers and suppliers. We share with W&R Barnett many core values including a commitment to employee welfare, excellent customer service, innovation and an appetite for growth.’’
We are grateful to everyone who has been a part of the Symphony journey so far and thank all our staff, customers and partners for your continued support – the future is looking very bright!
As we look back over the past 12 months, one of the things we’ve enjoyed reflecting on most is our award achievements. It takes so many people to turn our kitchens, bedrooms and bathrooms into reality – from the design and production to logistics and retailers, not forgetting the consumers and housebuilders who buy them and install them in their own properties and homes. These awards cement our stringent standards across all aspects of the Symphony business, so we’d like to say a huge thank you to everyone involved! And here’s a snapshot of the achievements for 2024…
Barratt Redrow North Scotland – Supplier of the Year
We had the honour of winning Supplier of the Year at the Barratt Redrow North Scotland awards. This award recognised our consistent levels of outstanding service, ensuring our clients achieve and excel when it comes to their own targets.
Fortis Lightside Conference – Kitchen Supplier of the Year
A key independent mixed merchant buying group, Fortis recognised our outstanding support and service to its members, who include Covers Timber & Builders Merchants, EH Smith Builders Merchants, Howarth Timber & Building Supplies and Leekes.
South Yorkshire Business Awards – Large Manufacturer of the Year and Sustainability Award
Recognising business excellence in enterprises of all scales, the South Yorkshire Business Awards highlight the region’s vibrant economic landscape and dynamic achievements and we were thrilled to scoop two awards for our manufacturing and sustainability excellence.

FX Design Awards – Shortlisted – Product of the Year – Pocket Doors
We were also delighted to make the shortlist for Product of the Year at the prestigious FX Design Awards with our Pocket Doors. Judged by a panel of distinguished experts from the contract design industry, including designers, engineers and architects, we were thrilled to make this coveted list.
SBID Product Design Awards – Finalists – Kitchen Product Category – Pocket Doors
Our space-saving Pocket Doors were also recognised as a finalist in the Kitchen Product Category at the SBID Product Design Awards.

Occupational Therapy Excellence Awards – Finalists – Best Equipment Provider and Excellence in Equipment Innovation – Freedom by Symphony
Awarding relevant, appropriate, innovative, excellent and effective initiatives, treatments, techniques, products and services, the Occupational Therapy Excellence Awards are judged by an independent expert panel and we were honoured to be recognised for our inclusive and accessible Freedom by Symphony kitchen range.

Ideal Home Awards – Best Classic Bathroom Range – Winner – Symphony Amalfi
“A good bathroom design is one that stands the test of time, which will certainly be the case with Symphony’s Amalfi fitted bathroom. The Shaker doors are a classic option that will make a wash space feel homely and warm – ideal for a family bathroom.” These are the words from the judges at the Ideal Home Awards.

Ideal Home Awards – Best Modern Kitchen Range – Highly Commended – Symphony Costina
We were also highly commended for our Costina kitchen in the Best Modern Kitchen Range category. The on-trend ribbed finish has been designed for contemporary and multifunctional kitchens with a textural style that brings ‘feel appeal’ to any home.

Ideal Home Awards – Best Bedroom Storage – Highly Commended – Symphony Nexus
As well as highly commended for our Nexus in the Best Bedroom Storage award. Part of our Urbano Bedroom Furniture range, the new Nexus design brings a fresh new look to homes, with an elegant and refined Shaker style available in three on-trend finishes – Hunter Green, Charcoal and Pebble.
As one of the UK’s biggest manufacturers of fitted Kitchens, Bedrooms and Bathrooms, Symphony knows what makes a successful kitchen design. Key components of safety, style and flexibility are at the core of the Freedom brand and its accessible design can be used by all ages and abilities, including those with mobility requirements. The Freedom brand is designed in collaboration with the Adam Thomas Consultancy. Adam is an accessible design consultant and industry expert and through 40 years of personal experience and research, his kitchen designs have helped to transform homes throughout the UK.

An example of Adam’s transformative work can be seen in Izzy Hussain’s property in Milton Keynes. In 2015, Izzy had an accident resulting in a spinal injury and is now a full-time wheelchair user. After she spent time recovering in hospital, she moved to a rented bungalow that just wasn’t practical and took away many of her freedoms. The kitchen wasn’t accessible, and she wasn’t able to cook independently. Izzy reverted to using a camping hot plate and an MDF worktop just so she could have the ability to cook for herself. Izzy says “I wanted to have the freedom to cook what I wanted, when I wanted and to fulfil my aspiration to be spontaneous once again, this reflects my personality.”
After a few years of recovery and planning, Izzy bought her own bungalow in 2018 which required a full re-design to become an accessible home to support her now as a wheelchair user. Her occupational therapist, Zoe Paye of OT Healthcare who oversaw the full design process from start to finish gave input and advice about working with builders and introduced her to design consultant Adam Thomas and the retailer Tara Neil Kitchens, whom she worked closely with to create her dream kitchen.
Patrick McGinty at Tara Neil Kitchens says “We are able to offer a tailored service to all our clients to understand their kitchen design aspirations, including those with mobility requirements. It’s about getting to know the client, taking the necessary measurements, and providing solutions that offer safety, style and flexibility working alongside our expert design consultant Adam Thomas. It’s an end-to-end support package including delivery and installation.”
Izzy’s Kitchen Design
Adam Thomas and Tara Neil Kitchens worked with Izzy to design a space that not only reflected her personality but also gave her back her independence. The look and feel of the kitchen were key factors to her design and Izzy chose the Alta kitchen by Symphony in Gloss Pure White with chrome handles for a light, bright and spacious feel. To contrast with the neutral cabinets, the statement worktop is made from Aurora Pink Quartzite and is truly a unique addition to the space.

Accessible Features
There were a few non-negotiable features that Izzy was keen to incorporate into her design. The first being a pantry/tall larder with pull-out drawers at the lower levels which provides lots of space for storing all kinds of dried food and tins and can be accessed quickly and easily. The second was a drinks cabinet as entertaining is a big part of Izzy’s life and allows her to host friends and family with ease. Adam also incorporated essential storage options into the design such as pull down i-move and pan drawers which provide easy access to everyday items, helping Izzy to feel independent in her kitchen once more.

Izzy was keen to incorporate an island into her kitchen space. As such, the team designed a pull-out table that has been installed for additional preparation space and is located directly across from the ovens, doubling up as a place to safely transfer dishes in and out of the oven and over to the island. This feature can also be used as a way to safely transfer pans from the induction hob on the island back over the sink area. Izzy was first introduced to the NEFF hide and slide oven, including heat proof resting shelf whilst on a spinal group on Facebook, Adam also provided guidance on which appliances should be installed.
The whole of the worktop with the hob is at a fixed height lower level and there are no units underneath so that Izzy can position her wheelchair and cook comfortably in this section of the kitchen. She also decided that there was no need to lower the worktop with the sink, there are no units under the sink worktop and most of the washing up will be done with the dishwasher. A slimline NEFF dishwasher was chosen for ease of cleaning crockery and kitchen utensils. Lastly, the Island prep space is on two levels, for all the family to enjoy, which is a real bonus – Izzy can be cooking, and she can entertain her guests at the same time.

Additional features include a hot tap which eliminates the back and forth when filling up a kettle, a well-equipped separate utility room incorporating a sink to wash her dogs as well as a handy pull-out dog treat drawer were a must-have for Izzy.
The project has been a huge success and Izzy felt comfortable dealing with Adam as he was able to provide her with some excellent advice, particularly as he is a wheelchair user himself. Adam says “I am so pleased with the outcome of Izzy’s kitchen project; it has not only given her the independence and freedom she needed but allows her to feel comfortable and safe in her own kitchen. The style reflects her personality, and it is a great example of how much can be achieved with accessible design.”
For further information about Symphony, please visit www.krulnexivoma.shop/brands/freedom
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