Meet the Ella Austin family
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Steve
Director (Ella’s dad)
After initially starting his career in digital design, Steve moved into property development whereby he and his team fully renovated tired and run-down properties. With a slightly different approach from your typical developer/builder, Steve used his previous skills in design to meticulously design each project from the ground up, inside and out, before overseeing and undertaking the majority of the “hands-on” manual work personally. Each project heavily revolved around creating open-plan kitchen spaces (it’s a cliche but it truly is the heart of the home, and was always the area that helped to sell the completed properties) so something Steve always took exceptional pride in delivering from concept to completion, and found his true passion in kitchen design, which prompted the beginning of Ella Austin Kitchens.
Steve closely oversees every aspect across the company and his (somewhat slightly obsessive) eye for detail remains fully intact, he enjoys nothing more than transforming our clients homes (and lives) taking initial design concepts through to handover completion.
Professional interests - I love classic, understated design (whether that be kitchens or interior/exterior design in general), but in terms of kitchens I love symmetrical traditional cabinetry in timeless neutral colour palettes. Throw a few modern innovations into the design and I am happy!
I rarely get the chance to design kitchens for our clients these days but on the odd occassion when I do I absolutely love it….my favourite part of the job!Personal interests - In my spare time I love music (I have played guitar since age 8), playing 5-a-aside football, cooking, travelling (my wife particularly enjoys holidays!) and spending time with my girls and our cockapoo, Maisie (who occassionally joins us in the showroom!)
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Tommy
Production Manager
Tom (or Tommy to any of our previous clients) has been one of our fitters for years so has the in-depth knowledge and first hand experience of exactly what goes into an Ella Austin kitchen, as well as vast experience in general carpentry and working on building sites for most of his life.
Tommy joined the team as production manager to organise and oversee every aspect of production and installation. A crucial role within the team, once any project has been confirmed for production he liaises closely between the design team and workshop to ensure our designs are perfectly brought to life and then expertly fitted by our small team of installers. He also acts as the liaison between clients and their contractors to ensure sites are ready for installation and any technical queries are taken care of.
Tommy loves building relationships with our clients and walking them through what can be quite a daunting time of complicated renovation work. A highly professional but cheeky chappie, all our previous clients love him as he has an incredible ability to lighten a room with his infectious happy persona.
Professional interests - I am a real lover of all types of kitchens and really enjoy seeing the clients wildest ideas be put into fruition.
I have a keen interest in innovation, creativity and most importantly problem solving - for me I get a real buzz at the end of a project when I have seen the room or building taking shape at different intervals, from roofless brick walls to life changing living spaces with all the gadgets.Personal interests - In my spare time I love spending it with my friends and family, fishing, holidays and football.
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Max
Kitchen Designer
With a passion for precision and a sharp eye for design, Max brings years of hands-on experience in kitchen design to the Ella Austin team. Known for his technical expertise and meticulous attention to detail, Max has honed his skills through working for several well-known kitchen companies (including another local kitchen company).
Max thrives on creating custom, functional, and stylish spaces that not only meet but exceed client expectations. Whether it’s transforming a compact urban kitchen or designing a spacious family hub, Max leverages both technical skill and creative flair to craft kitchens that are as beautiful as they are efficient.
Our clients appreciate Max's thoughtful approach, and commitment to delivering designs that are both innovative and practical, and he is particularly skilled at balancing the aesthetic with the functional, ensuring that every element of the kitchen is thoughtfully planned and precisely executed.
Professional interests - Coming soon
Personal interests - Coming soon
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Lily
Kitchen Designer
Throughout Lily’s education, her focus has consistently been on creative disciplines, fuelled by her passion for design and innovation—an enthusiasm nurtured by her upbringing in a highly creative family.
Her career in kitchen design began at the UK’s leading kitchen supplier, where she mastered the foundational skills of the trade. However, Lily’s drive for creativity and a desire to craft unique, bespoke designs led her to seek new opportunities. This journey brought her to the Ella Austin team, where she has continued to hone her knowledge, expand her skills, and refine her design style.
With over five years of experience in the industry, Lily remains deeply committed to her work and finds new inspiration every day. Her favourite aspect of the job is its diversity—every project is unique, reflecting the individual style, taste, and needs of each client. Building strong relationships with clients and turning their visions into reality is what drives her creativity and passion.
Kitchens are never far from Lily’s mind—in fact, her enthusiasm for design is so strong that she even talks about kitchens in her sleep!
Professional interests - I’m drawn to symmetry and clean lines that create a visually harmonious aesthetic. I love designs that embrace simplicity while incorporating bold elements—whether it’s a dramatic colour or a striking veined marble worktop—to help to add depth and personality to the design. For me, it’s all about working with textures and carefully curated colour palettes that bring a space to life.
Personal interests - I enjoy staying active, whether it’s through working out or going for a run. I’m passionate about cooking and baking, and I love exploring new places through travel. I am a bit of a film fanatic but, I am a sucker for reality TV—and my guilty pleasure is definitely sudoku puzzles! Above all, my favourite way to spend time is with family, friends, and my beloved dogs.
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Rebecca
Admin/Accounts (Ella’s mum)
Rebecca plays a key role in our team, balancing both the admin and creative side of the business. She keeps our accounts in check and makes sure all the day-to-day tasks run like clockwork. But her passion lies in coordinating our client photoshoots - from organising styling to managing the shoot itself, she ensures each session runs smoothly and delivers stunning results. Her organisational skills and attention to detail make her an essential part of our team.
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Rhiannon
Admin/Finance
Full Bio Coming Soon
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Tom
Co-founder (Austin’s dad)
Tom has an extensive career throughout the KBB industry with some of the leading manufacturers and suppliers bringing a wealth of experience and knowledge. Best friends of 25+ years, Tom and Steve shared a love of the construction and KBB industry and over the years had endless discussions and debates about the quality and cost of various kitchens on the market, and how they could combine their knowledge and skills to do it better.
Shortly after Ella Austin was initially established Tom decided to take a step back and continue in his existing role in the industry but remains a pivotal part of the history and establishment of the company.
Also, we wouldn’t be who we are without our small but amazing team of fitters, who not only are the very best at what they do but are also genuinely lovely people!
We wouldn’t trust anyone else to fit our kitchens.