A first-floor apartment in London was given a sympathetic renovation with the addition of a small but perfectly formed modern kitchen. KBB journo Amanda Cochrane learns all about the design…

The design of this bijou kitchen in a beautiful Georgian townhouse apartment in Kensington, west London, feels deceptively simple. This is down to Poggenpohl designer Natasha Wegrzyn’s clever use of tall cabinetry, which draws the eye up to the high ceilings. She has also kept the scheme feeling light and airy with natural materials and textures, fluted-glass detailing and open shelving.

The renovation of this project, however, was anything but straightforward; planning constraints meant Natasha had to work around two cumbersome columns in the kitchen design. Also, architectural details, such as the beautiful original panelling, needed to be carefully removed – and later replaced – to ensure it wasn’t damaged during the kitchen renovation.

The owners were keen to retain the home’s period details, but they also wanted to introduce new architectural interest with metal-framed window panels to separate the kitchen and living spaces. They added warmth with wooden cabinetry by Poggenpohl and timber flooring, but created contrast with a pale stone worktop.

What was your vision for this design?

This kitchen is in a Georgian townhouse in London and, from the outset, I wanted to embrace the period features. We wanted the architecture to be an important part of the space rather than working against it.

How complicated was the job?

It was a reconfiguration of the space, but in a period building there are often difficulties. The client wanted the architectural details to be complemented rather than hidden. Structural constraints also added a level of complexity. There were two columns that were going to be removed, but we suggested building around them rather than have the homeowners take on significant structural work.

What clever space-saving ideas have you included in the design?

Simply put, we added height. We created elegance by drawing the eye up and added interest with fluted-glass cupboards. A breakfast station with pocket doors hides smaller appliances and stops the kitchen from looking too busy.

How did you choose the colours and materials in the kitchen?

The client was very keen on the use of natural colours and textures, so we introduced warm tones with the beautiful natural walnut doors and brass accents. They also wanted a wooden floor and, although they were keen on having a marble worktop, we recommended porcelain because it is far more practical.

How involved were the owners?

Very involved. We worked together, especially on the overall look. They wanted luxe, warm, comforting tones and were keen, from day one, that there should be fluidity between the kitchen and living spaces. They preferred a Shaker door, but we persuaded them that the use of textures, colours and materials can make a modern door look traditional. Midcentury glass-globe wall sconces and a cornice give the kitchen a classical ambience.

What’s your favourite element?

The addition of the metal framework to create a glass wall between the kitchen and living area – it looks so striking. Once we knew that separation would be there, we incorporated it into the design by utilising the top of the arch as a focal point and then designed the wall units to reach the same height.

Were there any special requests?

To keep small appliances out of sight and have a bar area. We decided on a breakfast cupboard behind pocket doors and a drinks area at the end of the worktop run.

And any other clever design solutions in this project?

The glass doors at the top of the tall units help to elevate the space and draw the eye up, while ensuring that light is bounced around the space. The fluted glass on the door fronts adds texture without overpowering the space.

What do you like most about this particular kitchen?

The way we brought together a modern style – the flat, wooden Poggenpohl door is very contemporary – with a more traditional design. Also, around the edge of the wine storage unit, we changed the trim to bronze to match the aesthetic of the rest of the room. Such a seemingly simple addition to the design can elevate the space. And we are simply thrilled with how it has turned out!

Natasha’s words of wisdom:

• The definition of traditional or contemporary shouldn’t limit your style or choice. You don’t have to choose a Shaker door if your house is a period property; enjoy textures, tones and colours to give a more traditional feel.
• Don’t be afraid of height but be careful that by building upwards, it doesn’t feel too bulky or overpowering. Consider how it will affect the environment and ensure the space doesn’t feel too heavy.
• Be mindful not to overuse colour and texture. Less is sometimes more. Two colours on the door fronts in this space would have been too much.

As originally told to: Amanda Cochrane | Photography: Darren Chung

This house tour was featured in the May 2024 issue of Kitchens Bedrooms & Bathrooms magazine.

Enjoyed this post? Click here to explore a pretty pink kitchen with stone and wood accents

About Post Author