Licia Di Pasquale

They were very specific about the function of the kitchen. They wanted to make sure they had the exact storage for her large spice containers close to the cooktop area. A large island with hob (combination of induction and gas for chapatis) and lots of work surface for prep however no breakfast bar. They would have a separate table for dining in the kitchen and a more formal dining room adjacent. Worktop material to be spice proof. They had a quartz worktop in their old kitchen which had marked over the years. It was important to source a surface more suited to their needs. 

An area for their kids to be able to make their own breakfasts. 

A large double sink with dishwasher and integrated bins, again with plenty of work surface was important. A detailed list of appliances to include as well. A walk-in pantry was added in at a later date. 

Colours and materials to tie in with the architecture of the house. White external with black timber cladding. Simple pallet offset against the seasonal colours of surrounding trees. 

We wanted to compliment the style of the house in appearance and the overall impact of the kitchen. By using the available height, we stacked units to a height of 2775mm just 10mm off the ceiling height. We didn’t want to add any ceiling scribes or bulkhead to meet the ceiling. Units were ordered to the specific height. This detail was important to tie in with the interior details seen all over the house. 

We used crisp matt white at the sink run and on the island. In contrast with accent dark wood décor at the tall run with the wall units above sink also in the same finish. 

The island would be the focal point of the kitchen, especially at over 4m in length. As it wasn’t having a breakfast bar we wanted it to be more interesting than a big square box. We therefore opened up the underside of the island showcasing the 130mm thick Dekton worktop detail floating above the open drawer elements. Continuing the open detail around the rear side of the island. This corner and side all visible from the dining and seating area as well from outside of the house through the full height glass sliding doors. 

We concealed the doorway into the pantry by increasing the door heights at the tall unit run. Creating a continuous run of dark wood, super sleek yet incredibly functional. This area also includes the breakfast/coffee area. By using a bi-fold door with an internal finished surface and built in sockets, as well as a built under integrated fridge. 

We worked on this project for over two years and to see it now all complete is very satisfying. Most importantly our clients have fed back how well the kitchen is already working for the entire family. 

Project cost: £67,000.00