In Conversation with Mark Doble – Designing Accessible, Adaptable and Beautiful Kitchens
Freedom by Symphony is passionate about showcasing the people behind truly inclusive kitchen design. In this interview, we speak to Mark Doble, lead designer at Moorgate Kitchens about his journey into the industry, his passion for accessible kitchens, and how thoughtful design can transform everyday life.
From multi-generational living to future-proofed homes, Mark shares his insights into creating kitchens that work for everyone without compromising on style.
Moorgate Kitchens and Mark’s Journey
Tell us a bit about Moorgate Kitchens and your background in kitchen design?
“I began my career in the kitchen design industry over 15 years ago, working closely with homeowners to understand how kitchens are not just cooking spaces, but the heart of the home. My journey has always been about combining creativity with practicality, helping clients bring their ideas to life while ensuring every design is functional and enduring.
Moorgate Kitchens is a family-run business founded 26 years ago by Stuart Harrison, with the vision of offering a personalised, end-to-end service from design and planning right through to installation. Over the years, we’ve grown into a company known for quality, craftsmanship, and attention to detail.”
A Passion for Accessible Kitchen Design
What inspired you to specialise in accessible kitchens?
“The inspiration really came from my background working with young adults with disabilities and learning difficulties. I was a coach for my local Special Olympics team, and seeing those individuals thrive and grow in confidence had a big impact on me. So when the opportunity came to get involved with Freedom, I jumped at the chance to make a difference within my own line of work. Many clients, or their family members, face mobility challenges or accessibility concerns, but they still want a kitchen that feels stylish and high-end.
Too often, ‘accessible’ solutions have been purely functional, with little thought for design flair. We wanted to change that, to prove that accessible kitchens can be both practical and beautiful. For me personally, it’s been incredibly rewarding to design spaces that genuinely improve quality of life.”
Adapting to Inclusive and Multi-Generational Living
How has Moorgate adapted to incorporate accessible kitchens into your portfolio?
“We’ve invested in training and research to understand the specific requirements of accessible design. Our team now works with specialist suppliers to integrate innovative solutions such as height-adjustable worktops, pull-down shelving, and carefully considered layouts that accommodate wheelchair access.
At the same time, we ensure these features are seamlessly blended into the overall aesthetic, so clients never feel they have to compromise on style. Incorporating accessibility has meant expanding our portfolio to offer more thought-out solutions that are both inclusive and aspirational.”
How have you found the transition into accessible kitchen design?
“The transition has been both a challenge and a privilege. It’s required us to rethink certain aspects of design, but it’s also been incredibly rewarding to see the impact our work has on clients’ daily lives. Designing accessible kitchens has broadened our perspective as a business. It’s not just about trends and finishes but about creating spaces that empower people.”
Why Freedom by Symphony?
What sets Freedom by Symphony apart from other kitchen brands?
“Freedom is developed in collaboration with Adam Thomas, a leading voice in accessible kitchen design in the UK. Adam has over 40 years’ experience and personal insight as a wheelchair user, which helps ensure the design features really respond to real-world needs.
Its kitchens are designed with Building Regulations Approved Document-M (M4(3), Category 3: Wheelchair User Dwellings) in mind, as well as guidance from the Wheelchair Housing Design Guide. That means many features aren’t just ‘nice to have’, they’re built to meet recognised accessibility standards.”
What are the key features that make these kitchens so user-friendly?
“One of Freedom’s biggest strengths is that accessibility is built into the aesthetic, not added on. You get modern finishes, contemporary handles, colours, lighting etc., so the kitchen still looks like a high-end design.
There are also lots of features designed to reduce risk of injury or strain such as waterfall edges on worktops, heat-resistant surfaces, safe oven access like slide-and-hide doors, and front-access taps. These features consider both mobility and sensory impairments.”
How do these kitchens support both accessibility and multi-generational living?
“Many features designed for people with disabilities are also helpful for elderly users – things like less bending, easier reach, smoother surfaces, and safer materials.
That’s why accessible kitchens are often naturally multi-generational. Adjustable worktops, pull-out tables, and easy controls allow kitchens to adapt to different users, whether that’s someone using a wheelchair, an older homeowner, or a family cooking together.”
Innovation in Adaptable Kitchen Design
What are some of the most innovative features within Freedom kitchens?
“One of the things I really admire about the Freedom range is the way it brings genuinely life-changing innovations into the kitchen without compromising on style.
For me, the rise-and-fall worktops and wall units stand out as they can be adjusted at the touch of a button, which makes such a difference. I also like the Verti inside systems, which mean wall cabinets are no longer ‘out of reach’.
Then there are thoughtful details like waterfall edge worktops, front-mounted taps, and pull-out tables that create instant prep space. These touches really focus on safety, independence, and dignity in design.”
How customisable are these kitchens?
“Completely. Every client we work with has different needs, and the beauty of Freedom is that it’s built with flexibility in mind. We can adapt worktop heights, cabinet layouts, and appliance positions to suit the individual – whether they’re a wheelchair user, someone with reduced mobility, or simply looking for a more ergonomic kitchen. At the same time, there’s a wide choice of styles and finishes, so clients never feel like they’re compromising between function and design.”
Channel 4’s Beautiful Builds
You recently worked on Channel 4’s George Clarke’s Beautiful Builds. Can you tell us about that experience?
“Working with Adam and George on this project was such a unique mix of excitement and challenge. The fast-paced world of TV doesn’t wait for anyone – tight deadlines, constant pressure – every day was a race against the clock. But that’s also what made it so rewarding. There’s nothing quite like seeing everything come together just in time.”
What made this project particularly meaningful?
“Ben and his family were an absolute joy to work with. From the very start, they were relaxed, easy-going, and completely trusted Adam and me to bring their vision to life.
That trust made all the difference. In the end, we delivered not just a kitchen, but a space that truly felt like theirs.”
The project transformed a restrictive layout into a fully open-plan, accessible kitchen – complete with adjustable worktops, smart appliances, and a design that allows the whole family to cook and spend time together. It’s a powerful example of how adaptable kitchens can enhance independence while supporting modern, multi-generational living. You can view the episode here.
Designing for Real Life
Can you share an example of a challenging project and how you approached it?
“One project that really stands out was for a client who used a wheelchair and also had limited upper body strength. We used rise-and-fall worktops so they could adjust the height easily, added electric wall cabinets for accessible storage, and included a slide-and-hide oven with a pull-out shelf for safety. The end result was incredible. The client told us they felt independent in their kitchen for the first time in years. That’s what makes this work so rewarding.”
Adjustable height work surface
Advice for Planning an Accessible Kitchen
What should people consider when designing an accessible kitchen?
“The first thing I always say is to think about how the kitchen needs to work for you day-to-day. Accessibility isn’t just about making things lower or wider – it’s about making the space practical, safe and comfortable.
It’s also important to plan for the future. Needs can change over time, so flexibility like rise-and-fall units can be a real advantage.”
What advice would you give to someone just starting out?
“Don’t wait until you have to. Start thinking about accessibility early. Small, thoughtful changes now can make a huge difference later on.
And speak to specialists. Working with a company like Moorgate Kitchens means you’ll get expert guidance and a kitchen that suits your needs without sacrificing design.”
The Future of Kitchen Design
What trends are you seeing in accessible kitchen design?
“There’s definitely been a shift. Accessibility used to be seen as niche, but now more people are thinking about future-proofing their homes.
At the same time, there’s a move towards integrating accessibility into luxury design. People don’t want a kitchen that looks clinical, they want something beautiful as well as practical.
Technology is also playing a bigger role, with smart appliances and voice-activated controls making kitchens more intuitive and user-friendly.”
A final few words..
What would you like readers to take away?
“I’d like people to know that accessibility and luxury are not mutually exclusive. With the right design, you don’t have to compromise – you can have a kitchen that’s safe, practical and still every bit as beautiful as you’ve imagined. That’s the philosophy we bring to every project, and it’s why working with Freedom by Symphony has been such a great fit for us.”
Get in touch with Moorgate Kitchens
How can readers learn more or start their own kitchen project?
“The best way is to visit our showroom, where you can see and experience the design options first-hand – we find that makes all the difference.
You can also explore our website to learn more about our services and portfolio: www.moorgatekitchens.co.uk
And of course, we’re always happy to have a conversation by phone or email to discuss individual requirements:
- Email: mark@moorgatekitchens.co.uk
- Phone: 0161 705 1705
Ultimately, we pride ourselves on making the process approachable and personal. Whether you’re just starting to explore ideas or ready to plan your new kitchen, we’re here to help guide you every step of the way.”
Accessible kitchens should be about creating inclusive, adaptable spaces that work for everyone. And as Mark Doble’s work shows, when design is done right, it doesn’t just change kitchens – it changes lives.