This Victorian terrace in South East London is home to a professional foodie couple and their young children. Architects Stefan Shaw Studio designed a new side and rear extension for the house to create a light and bright family friendly kitchen. Their thoughtful design includes fun details like the structural beam painted in green. 

What’s particularly worth noting here is the use of materials, the space feels layered with colour and texture thanks to the bold combination of green Fenix laminate, which has a tactile, soft touch; the worktops are terrazzo from Diespeker, with chunky pieces of marble in oranges and greens and a cream resin based background; and the island is natural cork that has been mixed with recycled rubber. This cocktail of cork and rubber is commonly used in heavy industry as an anti-vibration mat so not only is it sustainable, it is also incredibly durable. 

Given their passion for creating delicious food, it is no surprise that this kitchen includes some serious cooking kit – a Bora Professional 3 hob with induction and gas rings and integrated extraction is incorporated in the island and there are electric and steam Fisher and Paykel ovens.

A shelf is a practical place for the cookbook collection; it also unites the two sides of the tall cabinetry, whilst the single horizontal line visually elongates and accentuates the wall here, providing a sense of space.  

To give a subtle definition to a change in usage, the wall cabinetry transitions to Half Moon White beyond the larder, here kids’ stuff and general family clutter is stored. The intention is for there to be a table in this area too, so the family can enjoy the garden, craft and eat together!