Latest · 28 September 2026
The Endless Choice of Colour
Why colour is one of the most personal and exciting parts of bespoke fine furniture — and how we help you find the shade that makes your furniture truly yours.
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Ideas, insight & craftsmanship
Notes from the Charles Vivian workshop — the finishes, the appliances, the joinery decisions that make a bespoke kitchen last a lifetime.
21 September 2026
Meet Richard Jackson
Richard Jackson, founder of Charles Vivian, looks back on thirty years of fine furniture and bespoke kitchens — and on the grandfather whose name inspired it all.
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14 September 2026
Making the Most of Unusual Spaces: Turning Lost Space into Useful Space
Under the stairs, in awkward corners and in unused cellars, most homes hide pockets of space waiting to be transformed. With thoughtful design, these overlooked areas can become practical, attractive and genuinely useful parts of the home.
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7 September 2026
Futureproofing Your Home with Fine Fitted Furniture
Life changes, and the rooms in our homes change with it. Fine fitted furniture designed with flexibility in mind can adapt from home office to bedroom, nursery to teenager's study — remaining useful and beautiful for years to come.
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17 April 2026
The Art of Kitchen Finishes: Why Hand-Painted Kitchens Define True Luxury
When designing a luxury kitchen, the finish is just as important as the layout, materials, and craftsmanship. It is the final layer that brings everything together, both visually and practically. At Charles Vivian, we believe that while both spray-painted and hand-painted kitchens have their place, a hand-painted finish offers something truly special: a perfect balance of durability, authenticity, and timeless beauty.
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13 April 2026
The Best Choice of Appliances at the Right Price
When designing a new kitchen, choosing the right appliances is just as important as selecting the cabinetry, worktops, and finishes. Appliances are the hardworking heart of the kitchen - used every day and expected to perform beautifully for many years. At Charles Vivian, we believe our clients deserve the very best quality appliances at the right price, and that’s exactly what our long-standing supplier relationships allow us to deliver.
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30 March 2026
In-Frame Kitchens vs Solid Wood Kitchens: Understanding Durability and Long-Term Value
When designing a kitchen that will truly stand the test of time, the construction method of the cabinetry is just as important as the style or colour you choose. One question we are often asked is the difference between an in-frame kitchen and a solid wood kitchen, particularly when it comes to durability and longevity. While both have their place in kitchen design, understanding how they perform over time can help you make a more informed decision.
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23 March 2026
The Importance of Detail When Choosing Your Kitchen Work Surface
One of the most significant decisions towards the end of this journey is selecting your work surface. It is one of the most visible and frequently used parts of your kitchen, meaning your choice will influence both the aesthetics and functionality of the room every single day.



At Charles Vivian, we believe this stage of the process is extremely personal. A work surface is not simply a design feature; it’s something that must complement your lifestyle and stand up to the demands of daily use.
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16 March 2026
Truly Bespoke - Making the Most of Every Space
At Charles Vivian, we are incredibly proud to be a truly bespoke business. Every piece of furniture we create begins with an idea and is brought to life through a carefully considered process. From the original hand-drawn plans, to detailed CAD designs, and finally through to installation by our dedicated and highly skilled team.
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10 March 2026
Garden Kitchens - Elevate Your Outdoor Space
More and more people are beginning to rethink how they use their outdoor areas. Instead of simply maintaining a lawn or tending to plants, homeowners are discovering the joy of bringing the inside out - transforming their gardens into spaces for cooking, entertaining, and relaxing.
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6 March 2026
What Is an In-Frame Kitchen?
If you are exploring new kitchen designs, you may have come across the term “in-frame kitchen.” It is often associated with high-end, handcrafted kitchens and traditional British cabinetry. But what exactly does it mean, and why do so many people consider it the gold standard of kitchen furniture?
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2 March 2026
A Pop of colour for the Brave
For many years, kitchens have been dominated by safe colour choices - whites, greys, creams, and neutral tones. While these palettes are timeless and elegant, more and more homeowners are discovering the joy of being brave with colour in the kitchen.
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27 February 2026
Dressing Your Kitchen with the Finishing Touches - The Right Handle Choice
When designing a kitchen, much of the focus naturally falls on cabinetry, worktops, and appliances. Yet one of the most powerful finishing touches is often the smallest detail: the cabinet handle. The right handle can elevate a kitchen from beautiful to exceptional, acting almost like jewellery for your cabinetry.
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