Designer Spotlight: Michael McMorran
8 April 2025
‘While I have a process, I always leave room for inspiration. Sometimes, a single element—like a beautiful natural stone or an unexpected colour palette—can shape the entire design direction.’
– Michael
Michael McMorran is the ‘creative dynamo’ of our team at Brampton Interiors and a kitchen design specialist with nearly 25 years’ experience in the industry.
In this article, we speak to Michael about his journey, approach to design, and the personal touch he brings to each kitchen project. Whether you’re considering a kitchen renovation yourself or interested in the creative process, this interview is for you!
Introduction and Career Journey
“Certainly! I have 24 years of experience in kitchen and interior design, and whilst I didn’t know it at the time, my passion for the industry started at a young age. Growing up, I had the opportunity to travel extensively throughout Europe, which exposed me to a wide range of architectural styles, cultures, and design influences. That early exposure sparked a deep appreciation for how spaces can reflect history, craftsmanship, and functionality. Additionally, my background in the music industry nurtured my creativity and artistic vision, which naturally translated into design. I’ve always been drawn to the idea of blending aesthetics with practicality, and kitchen design, in particular, allows me to create spaces that are both visually striking and highly functional.”
“A fun fact that most people wouldn’t guess about me is that I’m also a musician and have written my own musical compositions. While my career is in kitchen and interior design, music has always been a big part of my life and a creative outlet for me. I think there’s a strong connection between music and design—both require a sense of rhythm, balance, and harmony to create something that truly resonates with people.”
- What does “creativity” mean to you?
“To me, creativity is about seeing possibilities where others might not. It’s the ability to take inspiration from different sources—whether it’s architecture, music, culture, or even everyday experiences—and translate that into something unique and meaningful. In design, creativity isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about problem-solving, pushing boundaries, and finding new ways to blend form and function. It’s about crafting spaces that not only look beautiful but also feel intuitive and personal to the people who use them.”
- Looking at your recent work, how would you describe your design style? Are there any signature elements that you often incorporate into your kitchens?
“My design style is all about balance—combining clean, contemporary lines with warmth and character. I don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all approach, but I do tend to gravitate toward timeless materials, carefully curated textures, and intelligent spatial planning that maximizes both aesthetics and functionality.
A signature element of my kitchens is a strong sense of flow. I design with movement in mind, ensuring that everything has a natural place and that the space feels effortless to use. I also love incorporating layered lighting to create depth and mood, as well as mixing materials like wood, stone, and metal to add richness and contrast.
Another technique I often use is integrating hidden functionality—clever storage solutions, seamless handleless cabinetry, or smart technology that enhances the user experience without disrupting the overall design. Ultimately, my goal is to create kitchens that feel as good to be in as they look.”
Design Process
- How do you approach a new design project? Do you have a specific process you follow, or is it more of a spontaneous, inspired flow?
“My approach is a balance between structured process and creative intuition. Every project starts with understanding the client—their lifestyle, their needs, and how they want to use the space. I don’t just design for aesthetics; I design for how people live.
The initial phase is all about conversation and observation. I take the time to ask the right questions and, more importantly, listen. From there, I move into spatial planning, where I focus on functionality, ergonomics, and flow. Once the foundations are set, that’s where creativity comes in—choosing materials, textures, and details that bring the design to life.
While I have a process, I always leave room for inspiration. Sometimes, a single element—like a beautiful natural stone or an unexpected colour palette—can shape the entire design direction. I also like to challenge myself with each project, finding unique solutions that make every space feel personal and original.”
Recent Kitchens
- What is one of your most memorable recently completed kitchens?
“One of my most memorable recent projects is this kitchen (on the right), where the goal was to create a bold yet inviting space that seamlessly blends modern sophistication with warmth and character. The dark, veined surfaces bring a dramatic and luxurious feel, while the rich walnut bookcase adds a sense of personality and lived-in charm.”
“What made this design stand out for me was the balance of materials and the way natural light plays into the space. The large skylight and glass doors flood the kitchen with light, softening the darker tones and creating a dynamic atmosphere throughout the day.
Functionality was also key—integrating seamless storage solutions, a sleek handleless design, and a well-thought-out workflow that makes the kitchen a joy to use. It’s a perfect example of how you can merge bold, contemporary elements with warmth and practicality, creating a space that feels both striking and welcoming.”
- Can you give us an example of an unexpected design challenge you’ve faced, and how you managed to overcome it?
“One unexpected challenge I encountered recently was in a project where the client wanted a seamless, ultra-modern kitchen, but the existing space had awkward angles and structural elements that couldn’t be altered. The key challenge was making everything feel streamlined and intentional, rather than a compromise around the limitations.
To solve this, I used bespoke cabinetry with precise measurements to work with the unusual dimensions rather than against them. I also played with visual continuity—using large-format veined surfaces to create a flowing effect and integrating hidden storage to keep the clean aesthetic intact. The end result was a space that looked effortlessly sleek, despite the underlying complexities.
For me, challenges like this are where the most creative solutions come to life. They push me to think beyond standard approaches and craft something truly tailored to the space and client’s needs.”
- You’ve just returned from a trip to India. Was there a particular design element or style that stood out to you whilst you were there?
“India was an incredible experience, and what stood out most to me was the way design is deeply intertwined with culture, history, and craftsmanship. The use of intricate detailing, natural materials, and bold colour palettes was inspiring, but what really caught my attention was the balance between the old and the new. Walking through Jaipur and Jaisalmer, I saw centuries-old architecture seamlessly coexisting with modern design elements—something I always strive for in my own work.”
“One particular element that resonated with me was the use of handcrafted stone and textured finishes. The way surfaces are allowed to have depth and imperfection, rather than being overly polished, adds so much character to a space. I also loved how lighting was used to create atmosphere, whether through traditional Jali screens casting patterned shadows or warm ambient glows in contemporary settings.
Travel has always been a huge influence on my design perspective. It broadens my understanding of materials, spatial flow, and how people interact with their environments. Every place has a unique energy, and I love bringing those influences back into my work—whether it’s through subtle textural details, layered lighting, or an unexpected material combination that adds a sense of depth and history to a modern space.”
- If you could design a kitchen for any musician (other than yourself), who would it be and why?
“That’s a great question! If I could design a kitchen for any musician, I think it would have to be David Bowie. He was constantly reinventing himself, blending different influences and pushing creative boundaries—something I try to do in design as well.
I imagine his kitchen would be a bold, artistic space that reflects his eclectic style. Perhaps a mix of futuristic elements with a touch of vintage glam—high-contrast materials, unexpected pops of colour, and a layout that encourages spontaneity and creativity.
It wouldn’t just be a functional space; it would have to feel like an extension of his personality, somewhere that could be both a private retreat and a space for artistic collaboration. Bowie had a way of merging classic and avant-garde influences, and that’s something I love doing in kitchen design—creating spaces that feel timeless but still have an edge.”
Here are some further kitchens in St Albans, Harpenden and London designed by Michael:
Brewhouse Yard, London
The client brief for this kitchen was to create a kitchen with a contemporary design in a central London apartment. To include strong tones such as Black and White and maximise storage in a compact space. Provide a “turnkey” solution involving a full refurbishment of the kitchen and living space.
Harpenden
Michael: “I love the colour palette in this kitchen. With the addition of the bar furniture which matches the mirror, the space is tied together beautifully. The addition of the natural oak shelving also adds a touch of warmth in concert with the veining in the Noir Desir surfaces.”
Jubilee Walk, King’s Langley
One of the standout elements in this kitchen is the Dekton Aura 15 work surfaces. Known for their high resistance to heat, scratches, and stains, these surfaces don’t just add a layer of practicality but also enhance the visual aesthetic. The detailed veining and pure white background of Aura 15 seamlessly sync with the kitchen’s colour theme, adding a touch of luxury without being overpowering.
Belsize Close, St Albans
This kitchen features an ocean blue island and handleless furniture in Taupe, exuding a sense of modern sophistication whilst catering to the demands of everyday living.
Client: “Michael listened carefully to our requirements and patiently guided us to our final design, meeting all requirements and more… We now have a practical yet stunning kitchen, admired by anyone who has seen it.”
If you’d like to chat about the options available for your own kitchen transformation, pop into our St Albans showroom to view a wide range of traditional and modern working displays or give us a call on 01727 810 007.
For more kitchen design inspiration, follow Brampton Interiors on Instagram or browse our Gallery of recently completed kitchens in St Albans, Harpenden and beyond to see these ideas in action.
See also: Renovations with Brampton Interiors
