One of the UK’s largest manufacturers of fitted kitchens, bedrooms and bathrooms, Symphony has created the Freedom Kitchen Collection, an innovative concept in accessible design. With approximately 14.1 million disabled people in the UK, nine million living in a multi-generational household, plus an aging population with one in five people being 65 and over – Freedom caters to a huge demand for kitchens that are uncompromised in both style and functionality and that can be used easily by every member of the family.
The Freedom range has been designed with the requirements of the Building Regulations Approved Document-M (M4(3) Category 3, Wheelchair User Dwellings) in mind, and also incorporates guidance from the Wheelchair Housing Design Guide 2018.
Working alongside industry leader Adam Thomas, Symphony has also reviewed design features above and beyond the requirements of these documents, that are believed to offer unrivalled accessibility and functionality. Through over 40 years of personal experience and research, Adam’s kitchen designs have been transforming homes across the country, through the use of innovative design solutions that have set new standards in the field. With a mission of enabling people to live independently in safe surroundings and provide a significantly improved quality of life, Adam has been working towards disability equality and continues to receive numerous accolades for his ground-breaking work.
Adam Thomas says, “I have worked with Symphony to develop a range that features ground-breaking elements that will genuinely improve the quality of someone’s life. There is no need to compromise on good ergonomic kitchen design that minimises movement, to avoid spending less energy bending, lifting and cleaning. Whether a user is a disabled person, part of a multi-generational household or just wants a future-proof design, there are accessible features available that will improve the usability of the kitchen for everyone in the family, without having to compromise on a stylish design.”
The Freedom range has been built with three fundamental principles of inclusive design in mind: Safety, Style and Flexibility. First and foremost, Safety needs to be considered at every stage of planning, from the layout of the kitchen cabinets to the height of ovens and work surfaces. Features such as raised waterfall edge worktops that prevent spillages onto the floor and induction hobs are highly recommended to ensure a safe environment.
Functional, practical and safe design should never compromise style. A Freedom kitchen has multiple options to ensure users can create a look they are proud of. A combination of tall and base cabinet finishes can ensure a modern look that designers can complete with statement worktops, beautiful hardware and essential accessories such as lighting and drawer organisers.
Flexibility in design is an important factor to consider as ultimately user needs change over time. Features such as electric rise and fall worktops and wall cabinets can be adjusted by the user if needed and innovative oven housing, pull-out tables and pull-out wirework can be included alongside standard cabinets to create a space for independence.
Simon Collyns at Symphony comments “We are proud to be leading the way in accessible kitchen design with the help of the brilliant Adam Thomas. Adam’s wealth of knowledge in accessible design and our 50 years’ experience within the kitchen industry is the foundation of what is an incredibly powerful partnership. There is nothing like the Freedom range on the market, the intuitive, smart and sympathetic design is unique, and we look forward to seeing the continued success of this range”.
For further information about Symphony, please visit https://www.symphony-group.co.uk/brands/freedom/