Patrick & Ana – Apron
The kitchen is the heart of the home, and that is still how we felt when designing a space for guests. We wanted somewhere you could cook, socialise and make memories. With this in mind it was important to us to find an aesthetic we loved but quality was equally as important .
We discovered Apron through Instagram, we loved their aesthetic and after speaking to them about the project we knew they were who we wanted to go with. Patrick (one of the founders) was so passionate and we were aligned with where we wanted to go with this space. The final result was beyond our expectations, so we decided to give our guests a little more background into the brand.
When / Why did you start Apron?
Whilst living in Madrid where we met, we always dreamt in working together on a venture where we could combine our cultural influences and our love for design, craftsmanship and family life.
From a young age I was involved in my parent’s family business in the construction and interior design industry. Later, I specialised in bespoke furniture design and manufacture where I had the pleasure to work with leading companies in the sector.
A few years after our return to the UK, the opportunity to start our own company arrived and although 2020 was a challenging year to create a new business, our passion and solid experience in the industry gave us the courage to do it.
How did you come up with the name?
Our name comes from a cabinetry design detail, one of our favourites. The plinth is a detail at the bottom of all kitchens. When this is built into the frame this is called an apron plinth. We are aware that the first thing that comes to people’s mind when hearing the word “Apron” is the garment worn to protect our clothes, but for us now it’s our brand.
What trends are you seeing at the moment in the world of kitchens?
Modern rustic, European farmhouse style, the combination of painted timbers, wood and stone finishes.
What do you want Apron to be known for?
Our priority is to bring joy to the process of home renovation by making it as smooth as possible for our clients from beginning to completion.
From a design point of view, we strive to create spaces that invite us to cherish our daily routines and appreciate the simple pleasures that surround us. Our aesthetics are elegant and simple, and our furniture is crafted with honest materials, attention to detail and longevity in mind.
What is the most important thing when designing a kitchen?
There are many angles to this question, with each client bringing their own priorities. Fundamentally our aim is to always make the best use of the space, to create a functional, efficient and harmonious kitchen that inspires and simplifies the art of cooking.
What do people tend to do wrong or forget when designing a kitchen?
One important point that sometimes is missed during the design process, is to not overcrowd a room layout. The kitchen needs space to breath, to create a serene and airy atmosphere to cook and socialise. It is a fine balance between being too minimal and not having enough storage space, and filling every wall with cupboards.
What is the hottest colour right now?
For us the hottest colours will always be the ones that evoke the Mediterranean style. Rosie Uniacke paint range hits the mark, from the colour Fossil through to Hickory.
What would your dream kitchen be?
Our dream kitchen would be one in close connection with nature, with minimal transition between indoors and outdoors, full of natural light and ventilation. A place where we can feel in harmony with ourselves and the world.
Who would you like to design for?
We admire the designs and talent of PINCH founders, Oona Bannon and Russell Pinch. We would absolutely love to work with them.
And final question... Kitchens just for cooking or parties too?!
We are all for moments of joy, connection, and reflection!