DREAM KITCHEN
A MIX OF BRITISH CRAFTWORK AND ITALIAN STYLE STRIKES A VINTAGE NOTE
British craftwork and Italian style combine to great effect
DESIGNER Robert Rhodes, director, Robert Rhodes Architecture + Interiors, 020 3397 4733, robertrhodes.co.uk.
THE PROPERTY A two-storey, Grade Iilisted Victorian flat in north London.
DESIGN BRIEF Inspired by Italian palazzi, the owners wanted an elegant ‘grand salon’ that was also a practical kitchen.
DIMENSIONS 5.5x3.6m
LAYOUT
This large kitchen-diner opens onto the garden via a rear glass extension. ‘Crittall-style doors were key to the owners’ vision. It was essential that the conservatory read as an extension of the kitchen, rather than a barrier between it and the garden,’ Robert says. ‘The layout is an efficient double galley that provides ample preparation space, room for large appliances and plenty of storage.’
CABINETRY
‘As an American, I have an affinity with traditional cabinetmaking. Fortunately, the owners changed tack from early ideas of a sleek, modern kitchen to a classic one,’ says Robert. ‘This design features framed doors with Shaker panelling. The contractor’s brother made it in his workshop in Yorkshire.’ The dark-grey finish was inspired by the steel glazing bars.
SURFACES
Statuario Carrara marble was mooted from the outset, but Robert swayed the owners towards more robust and stain-resistant quartz worktops, with a statement panel of marble above the cooker. Fumed oak parquet flooring adds a sense of grandeur. It is engineered to allow underfloor heating, which freed the walls from radiators.
APPLIANCES
The Italian range cooker slots neatly in the chimney breast, yet has the look of a bigger professional model. ‘We chose an extractor that keeps the motor away from the ceiling, to reduce noise in the flat above, while its shape contrasts nicely with the curve of the alcove,’ says Robert. The fridge freezer, in a matching steel finish, is framed by cabinetry to ease visual impact.
TABLE ISLAND
‘A narrow island had been on the cards, but it just wasn’t right,’ says Robert. ‘Instead, this tall vintage table from the owners’ previous home proved the perfect fit. It can be moved away when guests gather and makes the kitchen feel more like a living space.’