We provided a very traditional kitchen for clients near Chichester. Our brief was for a light and airy open space, providing a large family living area. We designed the centre island with an end grain (wood is cut across the growth rings of the tree) chopping block, food prep and sink area. This was adjacent to the cooking and food storage areas, but situated where those preparing food could face and chat to friends and family seated at the centre island or kitchen table. As the kitchen is so often the heart of a house and the hub of family life, preparing food whilst being able to face and interact with family and friends is a key element in the design of this kitchen.
Close up of the end grain chopping block with knife store.
The worktops were formed from Iroko (a teak substitute), used primarily for its oily, waterproof nature. They were treated with a specialist finish, which offers enough protection to be used as an integral drainer for the sink. The same Iroko wood was turned to make matching knobs for the cupboards and drawers.
Matt black, stone surfaces were fitted either side of the Aga for hot pans to sit when removed from the heat. An attractive faux chimney and wooden over mantle was made by the Dovetail team to frame and unify the Aga with the rest of the kitchen.
The client had previously been involved in interior design so she added her own creative ideas for interiors, colours and textures. She sourced the unusual bone and polished nickel handles on the larder doors from a specialist supplier and the centre lights were purchased from Paris.
Their previous kitchen was in sited within part of the house that was destined to be upgraded, the whole of the back of the house was knocked out and a new extension with vaulted ceilings added.
