I decided to position the kitchen towards the back of the room and utilize the existing kitchen wall for a bank of tall appliances and storage. One challenge to overcome was how to create and access the utility/ plant room. I designed a curved wall with a hidden door to a new utility room (which was part of the old kitchen). The curve of the wall softened the hard lines and was then clad in Acupanel wood panelling which completely concealed the door. The panelling was then used around the tall units on both sides and linked to the surround on the fireplace wall. As the kitchen is in the darkest part of the space, I wanted to use mirrors to reflect light and used Eggersmann works units which are wide, pivoting mirrored doors which turn within themselves. This created a beautiful effect in the room and gave the clients lots of bespoke storage. They also give a real wow factor and a sense of drama when they are opened. I designed a double width pocket door unit between the mirrored units to give additional worktop and a space to keep small appliances. This gives the kitchen a different look when the doors open and closed and because the doors pivot and pocket the floor space at the side of the island is not compromised.
The couple are delighted by how well the kitchen works – they leave the pocket door open all day but when they have guests, they close them over. The Moores are keen cooks and already had a suite of Miele appliances that they wanted to re-use in the new kitchen along with a new induction hob and gas wok. A large fridge was a must which was designed alongside the ovens with a swing out pantry at the opposite side, creating a symmetrical look.
The large island has a Quartz worktops with mitred worktop legs. It houses a dishwasher, large sink, recycling bins and lots of drawer storage. The clients can now stand at their island to prepare food, and hob cook and face their beautiful garden instead of facing the wall. The island needed to sit 4 people on stools, and I designed the seating area between a built-under freezer and a wine chiller.
I designed in an electric pop up socket which was dual sided with USBs so that they can work at the island on a laptop and use the other side for cooking appliances.
Project cost: £53,937.00
