Tom Pigram

I’m a kitchen designer at our Milton Keynes showroom with 8 years of experience in mid-to-high-end kitchen design. Throughout my career, I’ve worked with a wide range of British and German manufacturers — including Nolte, Schuller, Leicht, Nobilia, Omega, and Masterclass. I started as a trainee designer at a local manufacturer and progressed through designer and project manager roles. As a result, I bring both creative and technical expertise to every kitchen I design.

Tell us about your design style and approach?

I start with an initial one-hour discovery appointment. During this meeting, I show you around the showroom and the Nolte product range, discuss your project in detail, and build a ‘Wishlist’ to work from when creating your design. From there, I book a design presentation meeting — usually around one week later. In the meantime, I create a tailored design specific to your needs and wants, while also putting forward any new ideas or layouts I feel may work better for the space. I then present what I believe is the best outcome — with photo-realistic renders of the proposed space and a corresponding quotation. The design covers aesthetics, ergonomics, storage space, worktop space, timelessness, and price. Every aspect of a kitchen design must have a clear reason for being there — not just because it fits.

What are your core strengths as a kitchen designer?

I take a highly structured, detail-oriented approach to every project. For example, during the design presentation I walk you through the layout, what sits inside each unit, and my reasoning for every decision. If changes are needed, we make them together during the meeting. The aim is that by the end, you have a layout and design you love. We then move on to choosing colours and finishes before generating a final itemised quotation.

How can I make the most of my space when it comes to my kitchen design?

Innovative design and clever use of space can create room where you think there isn’t any. For instance, features like plinth drawers and extra-deep drawer packs unlock hidden storage. Walkways between islands are also vital — the right proportions make a kitchen feel and look correct for the room. Additionally, use the height of your room to your advantage with top boxes to store the items you don’t need every day.

What is your favourite Nolte Kitchen range/feature?

neoLodge. It’s a range that consistently delivers — the combination of clean lines, grooved veneer fronts, and considered detailing makes it one of the most versatile and impressive ranges in the Nolte collection. Consequently, it works beautifully across a wide variety of home styles and client briefs.

What is your best piece of design advice?

Avoid basing your kitchen on current colour or style trends. A Nolte kitchen lasts 30+ years — and colours go out of trend quickly. Instead, create something neutral and timeless, then add splashes of colour through wall paint, splashbacks, or bar stools. These elements you can easily change if the colour becomes outdated. Furthermore, think carefully about your ‘non-negotiables’ before your first appointment — it helps us get to the right design faster.