A young Australian family relocating from Germany needed a kitchen that would embrace their outdoor cooking lifestyle within a London townhouse. Both busy professionals with an active social life, the clients wanted a U-shaped layout with an island that could handle entertaining while maintaining a bustling space that felt manageable.
Design challenge
The architect's carefully considered design had a clean stopping point beneath a curved roof light, but the clients were looking for additional storage for their ceramics collection. The architect resisted extending the cabinetry, concerned it would compromise the aesthetic and best use of space. Additionally, late in the process, a practical issue emerged: there was no room in the rest of the townhouse to accommodate the washing machine and tumble dryer so they would have to go in the kitchen.Our solution
For the family's ceramics, rather than adding kitchen cabinets where the architect didn't want them, Chris proposed a bespoke freestanding dresser - inspired by a high-end furniture maker the clients liked but at a fraction of the cost. Finished in a sophisticated green that echoes the garden tones, with handcrafted oak shelving and display areas, it provided exactly the storage the clients wanted while sitting perfectly in the space.For the laundry challenge, Chris designed an elegant pocket door solution that completely concealed the appliances within a ventilated cupboard, positioned alongside the pantry and fridge freezer to maintain visual consistency. The pocket doors slide effortlessly to reveal or conceal the laundry as needed.
The same attention to both form and function extended throughout: Chris specified marble with dramatic veining across all surfaces, transforming practical splashbacks into stunning focal points that complement the paint perfectly. Key partners included Bora for innovative hob with integrated extraction, Neff appliances, Fisher & Paykel fridge freezer, Quooker tap and Causton for handles and sockets throughout.
The result
The kitchen seamlessly combines outdoor living with townhouse elegance. The hidden laundry means no compromise on aesthetics, while the dresser unit - initially a point of some debate - became the homeowners' favourite element.