Recognising a Design Legacy – Tom Howley Receives Special Achievement Award 

Tom Howley, our Creative Design Director and co-founder, has been honoured with the Special Achievement Award at the kbbreview Retail & Design Awards 2026 – a prestigious recognition of his lasting contribution to the KBB industry.

Widely regarded as one of the sector’s most respected accolades, the award recognises the longstanding influence Tom’s work has had on the modern luxury kitchen landscape, and his constant commitment to the enduring principles of excellence that the Tom Howley brand has been built on. 

A Prestigious Industry Honour

As one of the kbbreview Retail & Design Awards’ most distinguished honours, the Special Achievement Award acknowledges a sustained and meaningful contribution across the industry.

Since establishing the business in 2004, Tom has led our growth from a single showroom in Altrincham to a nationwide presence, all while maintaining a clear commitment to traditional craftsmanship and timeless design. That foundation has enabled the Tom Howley brand to evolve over time, diversifying our range and expanding into a broader collection of spaces beyond the kitchen – from bedrooms and boot rooms to utilities, home bars, and media walls, all without losing sight of the ethos that Tom started the business with over 20 years ago.

Earlier in the year, Tom had been invited to join the judging panel for the 2026 awards in the kitchen design categories, a role offered because of his “unique eye for good design,” with his name coming up repeatedly as an ideal judge. 

A Moment of Surprise and Reflection

Tom attended the kbbreview Retail & Design Awards as a guest, with no expectation of receiving recognition himself. The announcement of the Special Achievement Award came as a genuine surprise, prompting a moment of reflection over Tom’s career, which has so often defined by forward momentum.

This dual recognition – both as a trusted industry peer and as an award recipient – underscores the respect and authority Tom has earned across the KBB sector over the last 20 years.

Reflecting on the achievement, Tom says:

“As a team, we’ve built this fantastic brand together, and I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved over the past two decades. From our very first showroom to where we are today, every step has been shaped by the dedication, talent, and shared vision of the brilliant Tom Howley team. We have some exceptional showrooms and truly outstanding people, and that’s what makes the difference. My philosophy has always been that there’s always room for improvement – in our designs, in our service, and in the way we support one another. That constant desire to refine, evolve, and raise the bar is what will continue to drive us forward.”

Earlier this year, Tom shared his design philosophy and approach in an in-depth interview with kbbreview, offering insight into the principles that guide both his kitchens and the wider brand. The feature highlights the same dedication to craftsmanship and considered design that has earned him industry recognition. Read the full interview here.

Tom’s recognition with the Special Achievement Award reflects more than a single accolade; it highlights the enduring standards, craftsmanship, and thoughtful design that underpin every project. It serves as a reminder of the care, expertise, and considered approach that defines both our kitchens and the wider collection of bespoke spaces.

Inspired by Tom’s approach to design? Explore our kitchen collections, discover real client projects on our inspiration blog, or book a design consultation to begin your own bespoke journey with Tom Howley.