Becoming A Kitchen Designer

Sophie Owen is a young designer at Qudaus Living, who has recently been shortlisted for three prestigious KBB industry design awards.  This is her story, outlining how she came to kitchen design and what she loves about her job.

“My early ambition was to be a wedding dress designer but when it came to starting work, I was offered the opportunity to join Belinda (my aunt), at Qudaus as a trainee kitchen designer.  Working as part of a small family team was appealing and I was given the opportunity to begin studying via an apprenticeship in Business Administration.

I loved working in the showroom from the outset.  Meeting people and interacting with clients and being part of a process that I could start with initial design ideas and see completed in customers’ homes is extremely satisfying.

My studies are supplemented with hands on training from Belinda and the team, as well as dedicated training courses from manufacturers and suppliers on appliances and furniture.

I soon realised that there was a lot to learn so jumped at the chance to join the Foundation Degree course in kitchen design at Bucks University.  I love this course; it is great that the teaching is related to the work that I do in the showroom.  I have learnt so much and enjoy the mix of on-line lectures and residential weekends, when I get to meet and mingle with the other students and staff.

It is sometimes challenging to manage the studies with a full-time job, but I am committed and believe it will be worth it.  I am lucky to have such a supportive team, there is always someone to talk to and help out. I would recommend this kind of part time study whilst working, it is a good way to gain a recognisable qualification whilst building up skills and experience.  I am interested in continuing my studies at Bucks University with the BA (Hons) Kitchen Design top-up course.

There is so much opportunity for progression here at Qudaus, one day I would like to manage the showroom and even have my own showroom.  In the meantime, I love my work and hope to win one of the awards I am shortlisted for!”