Entertain in style
A classically crafted kitchen, practical and beautiful oven-totableware and easy-to-prepare dishes are the key ingredients to hosting at home. Sophie Conran shares her tips for stress-free entertaining
there’s nothing more important than a sense of relaxed elegance when it comes to entertaining at home, so a well-designed kitchen with plenty of space alongside a fabulous table and cookware is a must for cook, designer and mother-of-two Sophie Conran. “It’s all about rustling up simple dishes in the company of those I love and serving them in beautiful oven-to-tableware on a thoughtfully laid table,” she says. “A large island that I can use for preparation, and where guests can chat while I work, is ideal.”
TIMELESS CLASSIC
Having a kitchen that blends style and practicality is essential and this English Collection kitchen by Martin Moore makes entertaining very easy. The handmade design, inspired by the elegant symmetry of classical English architecture, features generous proportions, clean lines and subtle detailing. The kitchen has been tailored with classic panelled doors with a
contemporary S bead and a large granite-topped island that acts as a natural hub. The combination of a freestanding appliance cupboard, glass-fronted cabinetry and an efficient “back kitchen” or butler’s pantry, with its deep sink and drinks fridges, provides storage and keeps the space neatly zoned.
FOOD FOR THOUGHT
A fluid approach to cooking and serving is as important to Sophie as a practical kitchen. Her range of oven-to-tableware for Portmeirion is versatile enough to be used every day, while its hand-crafted look elevates dining with friends from ordinary to special. “Every piece can go from freezer, to oven, to table, making cooking for groups very manageable,” says Sophie. “I always opt for hearty, crowd-pleasing dishes that can be made in advance, then on the day I concentrate on dressing the table with pretty glassware, foliage and pops of colour. Dining in the kitchen is my favourite way to entertain: elegant, informal and, above all, easy.” Martin Moore Kitchens, 0845 180 0015, martinmoore.com. Portmeirion, 01782 743427, portmeirion. co.uk. Sophie Conran, 020 7603 1522, sophieconran.com.