ISOLA

I was having difficulty finding a design for my newly extended kitchen and dining space which wasn't full of compromises. Enter Lee of Isola Designs - his approach was to go for an entirely bespoke design to interpret my ideas. More importantly, Lee used his substantial interior design knowledge to come up with a really creative version of my initial brief. He was on hand throughout the project to advise and help and I was particularly impressed with his input regarding lighting and colour schemes. He sourced some beautiful Italian lights for me direct from the manufacturer. From start to finish Lee was outstandingly professional and capable. Every aspect of the project was perfectly coordinated by Lee so there were no gaps between each stage. This was really important for us as we were living on site and very keen to get our kitchen back! The trades he works with are all highly competent not only the carpenters who built kitchen and utility units but also the decorators, electricians, worktop fitters and appliance suppliers. Lee delivered a fantastic kitchen and dining space which is both practical and glamorous. It is faithful to the original brief but so much better than we could ever have imagined. Perhaps one of the most important things to say about Lee, however, is that he is really passionate about each project and this combined with his friendly personality makes him a pleasure to work with.

I was introduced to Lee by a friend, at the very beginning of the thought process leading to a new kitchen/ground floor renovation of our Edwardian family home. Lee came to meet us, see the space and talk over initial concepts and ideas. I liked him immediately. Lee is very personable, professional, and focused, yet fun and easy going. Our ideas were unclear, a little confused and building possibilities had not yet been decided. Imagination was required! Lee immediately began to distill a vision from a very eclectic wish list. I felt instantly that he understood the essence of what I was trying to create and could bring this project together in a far more creative way than I ever could. His expertise in kitchen design was very clear. Over the following weeks and months our build morphed and changed into something rather different. Lee produced thoughtful, imaginative designs which he tirelessly altered time and time again, as the dimensions shifted and different options became possible. He collaborated with my builders and trades harmoniously and effectively. Throughout this time we met regularly to talk over possibilities, detail, function and style. Lee managed to continuously refine my ideas into a fabulous design that ticked all my boxes and then some. He brought so much to the table in terms of expertise, creative solutions and flair. Lee took my dream and brought it to life in a strong, cohesive way, with glamour and style. Nothing was a problem. Lee took care of all the essential design elements and worked closely with the carpenters who hand built my kitchen to fabulous effect. His sourcing and advice for carpenters, decorators, appliances, lighting, tiles, floors, fittings etc was inspired and invaluable. Lee really comes alive when it comes to colour and textile. We had a lot of fun sourcing paint colours, wallpapers and decorative touches. Lee’s explorations into colour and finishes for me were exhaustive! He made sure It was perfect. I felt supported by Lee throughout the whole process. He was patient and focused and always positive. Most importantly, he was there, without fail, whenever I needed him. It was a very enjoyable collaboration. The results are far better than I could ever have hoped for. A very beautiful, luxe, working kitchen that feels perfect for us and our home. The project grew beyond kitchen design and moved into a new dining space, a conservatory revamp and the total transformation of a former playroom into a gorgeous library/reception and office space. Lee designed all of it for us according to our vision and practical requirements, helping to choose and source furniture and textiles, ultimately creating amazing spaces that relate and flow throughout our ground floor. Lee is discerning, tasteful , talented and a pleasure to work with. He’s a fabulous all round interior designer and I recommend him wholeheartedly.

Lee was instrumental in our renovation being such a success. He is very professional, listened to our thoughts and provided spot-on interior decorating proposals from lighting, paint and wallpaper suggestions to particular furniture pieces to suit the space. His experience in design was fundamental to our bespoke carpentry looking so beautiful. Lee’s experience shined through when coordinating the different tradesman such as builders, electricians, carpenters, soft furnishings etc to ensure everything was completed on time. He knows the local suppliers well and has a good eye as to what will work well. Very much recommend!