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A Kitchen Makeover With Bill Bailey

Designed with family time in mind, this kitchen makeover with Bill Bailey shows how a fresh layout and handy features makes entertaining easy. Bill’s home is nestled among the mountains of the Lake District, so his kitchen makeover also needed to reflect this scenic setting. With a colour palette inspired by the local landscape, plus an island that’s inviting to guests, this fitted kitchen is a balanced blend of natural beauty and functionality.

About Bill

Bill Bailey is a comedian, musician, actor, author, and documentary maker. His home in the Lake District has been at the heart of family life for three generations, hosting many happy holidays, events, and special celebrations.

Bill standing in his kitchen in front of the view of the Lake District

Design Goals

Bill was after a design that reflects the surrounding mountains and lakes. Inspired by the arts and crafts movement, he wanted a bold kitchen that was kind to the planet, with room for family get-togethers.

Finished Floor Plan

Charcoal fronts and carbon-neutral, stone surfaces mirror the rocks of the Lake District. The new island layout offers socialising space, while the handleless fronts allow the room's decor to shine.

"Howdens have the experience, craftsmanship, and design skills to create the kind of kitchen we wanted. I liked the great range of materials and finishes, and the timber they use in their kitchen cabinets is certified from sustainable forests.”

Hockley Charcoal Handleless

Bill chose slab, Hockley fronts in a charcoal shade, offering a dramatic backdrop for gatherings. The handleless design and matt finish allow the shade to take centre stage, while minimising visual distractions.

HOCKLEY CHARCOAL HANDLELESS

Decorative Details

From bespoke worktops to boiling water taps, see how Bill added key features and personal touches to create a custom design.

Island Layout

Adding an island has made Bill’s home better for hosting. It is family-friendly and less of a squeeze for guests on special occasions.

See Kitchen Islands

Stone Worktops

Bill chose Dekton Trillium counters. A carbon-neutral surface, it is made from a stone and mineral blend inspired by the local landscape.

See Dekton Worktops

Appliance Wall

Bill’s trade professional installed a bank of appliances along the rear wall. This streamlined layout makes entertaining easy.

See Single Wall Kitchens

Bill filling a cup using his Quooker boiling water tap

Quooker Tap

Whether filling pans or making drinks, Bill saves time and energy with a Quooker tap that delivers instant boiling water.

See Quooker Taps

Twin Sinks

Two Chasewater sinks provide lots of washing up space. A stony, fossil-grey shade was picked to extend the natural scheme.

See Grey Kitchen Sinks

Waste Disposal

Bill's trade professional chose an InSinkErator unit, which prevents waste going to landfill and suits Bill’s environmental ethos.

See Waste Disposal Units

Bill and his wife Kristin in the kitchen enjoying a drink

"We chose Hockley Charcoal Handleless as I love clean lines and practical design. The house is in the Lake District, surrounded by mountains, water, and ever-changing skies, so natural colours that reflect this was something we aimed for.”