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An Accessible Kitchen Makeover With Sophie Morgan

Designed with independent living at its heart, this accessible kitchen makeover with Sophie Morgan demonstrates how our products can be adapted for all ages and stages of life. TV presenter, Sophie Morgan, is best known as a disability campaigner and broadcaster, having also become a household name thanks to her appearances on ITV’s Loose Women, Living Wild, Dispatches and Crufts. Following an accident in her teens, Sophie now uses a wheelchair, so her new kitchen makeover needed to accommodate her access needs, while offering a stylish space. Working with her Howdens designer, Sophie used clever cabinetry, smart storage, and intelligent tech to craft an area fit for modern living.

About Sophie

TV presenter and podcast host, Sophie Morgan, has a successful broadcast career, while campaigning for better representation of inclusivity in television. After a car crash at just 18, Sophie was left paralysed, which meant she was determined to live independently as a wheelchair user. So, when designing an accessible kitchen in her London apartment, she sought the help of Howdens as she knew we had the products and expertise to create a space adapted to her needs.

The design goals

Sophie's aspirations

Sophie wanted to remodel her tired cooking area into a luxe space that was welcoming and wheelchair friendly. It also needed to double up as a spot to work.

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Sophie's aspirations

Sophie’s old room was difficult to use in a wheelchair as it lacked the floor space to manoeuvre freely. This meant completing daily chores was a challenge, so improved accessibility was a must for the new design. Sophie also found that her existing room lacked the luxe appeal found in other areas of her home, and she wanted a consistent look throughout. When designing her interior, multifunctional features were important, so the room could double up for homeworking and entertaining.
The final result

With Howdens' help, Sophie has created an accessible area that she can use confidently. Meanwhile, a statement scheme adds a decadent dynamic.

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The final result

With more than 600 cupboards to choose from, Sophie was spoilt for choice when selecting units that worked around a wheelchair. When combined with clever accessories, it meant everyday essentials were within easy reach. Her designer also recommended smart, Lamona appliances that kept controls close by for improved accessibility and added a bespoke bar for work or play. Finally, the framed, shaker style and marine-blue tone of Sophie’s design sets a sophisticated scene that marries up to the rest of her home’s aesthetic.

The design details

Luxury hues

Using our framed, Chelford design, Sophie added heritage appeal to her home. Paired with a marine blue and pebble hue, her cooking space is lavish and luxe.

See Chelford kitchens
Clever cabinetry

Sophie's designer created a bespoke pantry using larder units with extra clearance, pull-down baskets, and adapted balconies for wheelchair access.

See larder cabinets

Bespoke bar

Having a multifunctional cooking space was essential for Sophie, so her builder installed a compact breakfast area at the optimum height for homeworking.

See breakfast bars
Cook & Connect tech

The Lamona kit in Sophie’s space features Cook and Connect tech. This uses Bluetooth to control the fan from the hob, making both devices easy to operate.

See Lamona hobs

Dressed for drinks

Sophie loves entertaining family and friends, so her designer added a drinks station with custom shelving and a bottle fridge to keep tipples within reach.

See wine coolers
Safety first

Kettles are hard to lift from a wheelchair, which is why Sophie invested in a Quooker tap, so she has boiling water on demand without the risk of scalding.

See Quooker taps

Conquer counters

To make the most of awkward corners, Sophie opted for pull-out accessories that brought the cupboard contents forward, improving access and stock visibility.

See pull-out kitchen storage
Pull-down power

Pull-down shelves make it simple for Sophie to put away dishes. It also maximises the room's height to free up floor space for better manoeuvrability.

See pull-down shelf storage