There's a saying by William A Foster, "Quality is never an accident; it is always the result of high intention, sincere effort, intelligent direction and skillful execution; it represents the wise choice of many alternatives."

QUALITY- A RATIONAL

William A Foster's observation is especially appropriate when the subject is kitchens. If you're on a budget, then you really are spoiled for choice; whether they last is another matter.

However, when you get into the quality end of the market, the choice tends to come down to country of origin rather than manufacturer - when was the last time you heard anyone talk about their fantastic Canadian kitchen? No, when it comes to manufacturing kitchens, much as great British pride might not like it, the Germans are extremely good at it. There have been some notable German brands over recent years but the market leader in Germany is Rational which also happens to be the brand of choice for Steve Bloom of Spacefittingfurniture.



"I love working with Rational's products," says Steve. "Their range of innovative designs is superb - Rational's philosophy is 'By People, For People' which means they understand the lifestyle and they understand how the product is going to be used by the customer. That forward thinking combined with an almost obsessive attitude towards build quality makes my job as kitchen designer a whole lot easier. I don't have to think whether the quality will be there, I know it is. Which means I can put all my energy into creating a kitchen that absolutely fulfils my customer's brief."

Spacefittingfurniture has been selling Rational for the last thirty years and, according to Steve, that's not about to change any time soon. "I have total faith in their products," says Steve. And he means it. His own kitchen is manufactured by Rational. Steve's wife Claire, partner in the business, is equally enthusiastic: "We've built the business on a reputation for great design and excellent build quality. Steve wouldn't consider designing with any other product."

Hundreds of satisfied customers seem to agree as Steve and Claire's order book is extremely healthy. And don't be too disappointed if you do find yourself moving to Canada - Steve could still design your kitchen and yes, Rational is available in Calgary. So, if you do hear anyone boasting about their Canadian kitchen, it'll probably be German and, quite likely, a Rational.

Spacefittingfurniture The Design Quarter, 145 Colchester Ave Penylan, Cardiff CF23 9AN 029 2045 5778 info@spacefittingfurniture.co.uk www.spacefittingfurniture.co.uk