‘We both love food and wanted a big kitchen-living room to cook, entertain and relax in’ said the couple who created this beautiful space, speaking to Ideal Home magazine about their renovation. When they bought their Victorian terrace in south east London, it had a cramped, dingy kitchen that was completely at odds with their dream social set-up.

They ‘envisaged dining and seating areas, high-spec appliances and an island where they could cook and look out onto the garden’ and it was a joy to be part of making this a reality.

The layout is designed with very specific uses in mind, the island for cooking and food prep includes a Bora induction hob with integrated extraction. The seating area is to one side, so there is no chance the garden view will be blocked! There is a nook for coffee prep, that also integrates a wine fridge. Double ovens sit on the same wall as American style fridge freezer, making this the business side of the kitchen.

Due to the open plan nature of the space, the relationship between the island and the end of the run of cabinetry with the rest of the room is important, how the transition between the two different zones is managed. Integrated bookshelves are next to the sofa which feels like a natural partnership. The island is London Plane wood veneers with cupboards on the external side, this makes it feel like a piece of furniture and an expanse of London Plane grain is always a treat to behold.

Floating shelves above the sink area ensure the other main worktop feels open and easy to use; whilst the shelves provide the opportunity to add layering and texture and are a place to display favourite ceramics, including Italian Splatter ware, a collection of which was started on their honeymoon.

The worktops are Arabescato Quartz from Total Tops. Along with the London Plane, the cabinetry is Half Moon White.