KITCHENS

The kitchen has evolved to become the heart of the modern home. From stand-alone buildings designed to reduce the risk of fire, to windowless servant-run basements of the 18th century, the functional 1950’s kitchen where food arrived through a hatch, kitchens are now the centrepiece of daily life.

Open-plan layouts allow the host, often also the chef, to engage with family and guests, shaping the kitchen, dining, and family areas as a connected, multifunctional space.

Designing an open-plan kitchen presents a range of complex challenges. Services such as drainage, extraction, lighting, and heating must be carefully integrated and discreetly concealed. The space itself needs to support multiple functions: layered lighting to suit work and relaxation; ample storage to maintain uncluttered, sleek lines; and practical ergonomics and finishes for ease of use and maintenance. Where appropriate, garden rooms often form part of the open plan, introducing natural light, warmth, and a sense of connection with the outdoors, further enhancing the heart of the home.