In the heart of Newton Mearns, nestled within a beautifully restored 1940s detached villa, we were tasked with completing the final chapter of a challenging yet rewarding renovation journey. The kitchen, the last piece of the puzzle, needed to seamlessly tie together a home brimming with history, while also meeting the demands of a young, bustling family that treasures both functionality and the great outdoors.
The family, who love spending time in nature, wanted their kitchen to feel like an extension of the outdoors—a place where sunlight flows freely, and the surrounding landscape is ever-present. The design vision was clear: create an open-plan kitchen-living-dining space that not only feels connected to the outside world but also serves as a warm, welcoming hub for family life.
At the heart of the design is a bespoke island that combines form and function. With integrated storage and stools, it allows Mum to cook while keeping an eye on the kids, ensuring that she is both part of the action and in control of the kitchen. The island not only maximises space but also serves as a gathering point for family and friends, creating a perfect blend of practicality and social connectivity.
A textured tile splashback at the hob adds depth and visual interest, while the floating shelf, complete with an integrated extractor and ambient wall lighting, brings a timeless touch to the design. The subtle lighting casts a warm glow, making the kitchen feel inviting at any time of day, from the morning hustle to evening meals.
To further enhance functionality, we designed and built a bespoke breakfast pantry, offering both clever storage solutions and easy access to everyday essentials. This bespoke feature was meticulously crafted to blend seamlessly into the space, providing a smart and aesthetically pleasing solution to the challenges of family life.
The materials:
The concrete worktops provide a sleek, industrial contrast to the soft woods, grounding the space with a minimalist yet contemporary edge. Their cool, tactile finish adds sophistication and practicality to the design. Black accents in the handles, tap, and hardware introduce a bold contrast, enhancing the modern feel while allowing the natural materials to shine.
The challenges:
A key challenge lay in the unexpected discovery of structural beams that emerged during the renovation. Rather than being a setback, we embraced these as an opportunity to add character and depth to the space. These beams were cleverly integrated into the design, their presence celebrated, adding intrigue to the overall aesthetic.
This kitchen renovation is more than just a space to cook; it is a reflection of the family’s lifestyle—a space that celebrates nature & embraces light. Through careful design and thoughtful execution, we created a kitchen that not only meets the needs of a busy family but also serves as a timeless backdrop for years of memories to come.
