Devan Makwana

My approach is rooted in the German design philosophy that defines Nolte: function first, always. Before colours, I want to understand how your bespoke German kitchen needs to perform. As a result, that means maximising your space, improving flow, and solving storage challenges that are easy to miss.

Tell us about your design style and approach?

I work to what I call the 90/10 rule. Essentially, the first 90% is layout, function, and practicality — the decisions that are hardest to change later. Once we've nailed that, we move into the final 10%. That's when we refine finishes, choose appliances, and sweat the details — so there are no surprises on installation day.

What are your core strengths as a kitchen designer?

As a kitchen designer in Teddington, I bring an architect's eye to every project. For example, I read a floor plan the way others read a room — seeing opportunities that aren't obvious at first glance. From there, I'll give you multiple layout options and walk you through the reasoning behind each one. Ultimately, every decision has a clear purpose — so your finished Nolte kitchen isn't just beautiful, it's exactly right.

Are there specific materials or finishes you love working with?

I love working with wood and balancing it against another colour or texture. For instance, the richness of walnut paired with a bold contrast creates a real sense of warmth. Alternatively, a light oak finish opens a space up and gives it that Scandi-inspired feel. Either way, it's about finding the balance that makes the kitchen feel distinctly yours.

What is your favourite Nolte Kitchen range/feature?

Where do I start? First of all, Nolte offers three carcass sizes and multiple plinth heights — so I can tailor your kitchen to your exact ergonomic needs. In addition, there's integrated lighting beneath units, inside handleless profiles, and within drawers. On top of that, unique real-concrete and real-metal finishes mean you have a range that genuinely earns the word exceptional.

What is your best piece of kitchen design advice?

Invest in storage efficiency, not storage volume. For example, a well-designed drawer gives you more usable space than three extra cupboards. As a result, your kitchen stays feeling open and considered. Therefore, think carefully about where your budget goes, and I'll help you get the most from every square metre.

Any fun facts or hobbies outside of design?

When I'm not designing kitchens, you'll find me on the badminton court, out on my bike, or mid-binge on a new TV series — usually with something good to eat nearby.