If you are thinking about upgrading to a semi-commercial kitchen, you might want to know some the examples of how Steelplan’s designs have impacted the communities that we serve. Here are a few kitchens that we have transformed, and the stories behind them.
The Dorothy Parkes Centre, Sandwell
The Dorothy Parkes Centre could be the quintessential community centre. It is the hub for a diverse range of activities, clubs, groups, and services in Sandwell, West Midlands, including martial arts classes, dance, family law clinics, and bereavement support.
The impact that the centre had on the community was recognised in early 2024, when media group Global awarded it a grant through its grassroots charity Make Some Noise.
The Centre had wanted to offer cookery courses, but its domestic-style kitchen was not up to the task. It was not well equipped or durable enough for cookery classes, so the centre decided to invest in a semi-commercial kitchen from Steelplan.
Jodie Griffiths, Centre Manager: “We now have electric hobs, 3 ovens instead of one and 3 microwaves. For our classes, we have dedicated ‘stations’ that a few people at a time can use – these stations are also low enough to be accessible for those using wheelchairs – and now that we have enclosed the space, it’s ready to host classes. It’s also in a brilliant Paprika colour that’s vibrant and brings people in. We have just had a grand opening, and we know that 20 years down the line, it will still be a fantastic kitchen.”
PSDS, Reigate
PSDS is a surrey-based charity supporting children and young people with Down syndrome. After almost two decades of operating out of rented church and village halls, they finally found their own home. The building they chose needed a kitchen, and they knew that the cookery skills they would teach required a better equipped, more hygienic, and more durable space than simply a domestic-style kitchen.
It also needed a certain professionalism in its appearance, without being too stark and off-putting.
They decided that Steelplan’s semi-commercial kitchens were perfect for the job, with their vibrant finishes but sophisticated designs. They were delighted with their new kitchen, which could support young people learning new skills and offered room for the centre to grow and the opportunity to serve food and drink to the public.
St Mary and St Nicholas Church
This church is a centuries-old heart of their local community, but its modern usage required a modern kitchen. They needed more space for food and drink preparation, with an installation that would last.
It was also important that the kitchen was in keeping with the grade II listed building, and that the renovation did not cause any damage.
They chose neutral colours that complemented the stone and whitewash of the building while maintaining a welcoming environment, and on the practical side, we included a wheeled island for flexible surface area, and additional shelves for efficient storage.
The result is a modern, practical kitchen space that accommodates multiple users in an efficient and hygienic environment.
Are you feeling inspired by any of these kitchen renovations? Get in touch to discuss the possibilities for your new kitchen, and even see a design in situ with a free 3D consultation tool. Call 0844 809 9186 or email [email protected].
