This couple dreams about transforming their rear extension into a warm and welcoming kitchen-diner with Soho House-inspired charm. So, we’ve asked two designers to help bring their vision to life…

Robert Powell, an airline pilot, 40, lives with his partner Joe, 33, an advertising agent, and Labrador Willem in a semi-detached house in Berkshire. They are currently renovating the property, and would like to extend to the rear to create a multifunctional kitchen-diner suitable for both work and entertaining.

So, they decided to take part in our Drawing Board feature, where interiors experts come up with creative ideas for our readers’ renovations and design dilemmas. This time, KBB journo Rachel Ogden asked Gabi Riseley, owner and design director at Henry Rose Interiors, and Olive & Barr designer and showroom host Rachael Mellings, to help Robert and Joe turn their kitchen-diner extension into a welcoming, convivial space.

The space

The extension will create an area that’s around 7.7m at its widest point, and 7.5m at its deepest. A wall between the existing kitchen and dining room will be removed. The couple plan to create an extended utility area by taking space from the garage, and install bi-fold or sliding doors along the width of the extension. The only entrance into the room is a set of double doors. As there are no other windows, they would like to add rooflights in the extension.

The brief for the kitchen-diner

• Robert and Joe are keen entertainers – they’d like the new space to feel open and relaxed, as well as cosy for dinner parties. A large, L-shaped, snuggly sofa is a must for movie nights, as is a grand piano.
• Joe works from home, so the kitchen must also function as a workspace, taking advantage of the south-facing garden. The couple would also like to see ways to maximise the natural light.
• They both like natural tones with woods, soft lighting, and a classic feel with a touch of their favourite Soho House vibe. On the wishlist is a large pantry cupboard, too, and a freestanding bar, sound system, statement pendants, and possibly a log burner.
• Ideally, the design should include an island with four stools, so guests can chat to Robert and Joe as they cook.

The budget is £40,000.

Designer one

Gabi Riseley is the owner and design director at Henry Rose Interiors, where she has worked for almost seven years. For her project in a loft conversion, she was awarded Bathroom Designer of the Year 2023 by the KBSA.

Solution one

“My starting point was the feel that Robert and Joe desired for their kitchen; a Soho House vibe. I have tried to recreate this using a blend of old and new, mixing the elements of a traditional kitchen with splashes of industrial chic lighting. I chose a smoky green faux in-frame door from Daval Furniture, called Woodland Green, which has a sense of timeless calm about it, and paired this with the brand’s Classic Oak cabinets.

“The rest of the room and accessories are based on natural hues, mixed with pops of orange and pink. Robert mentioned having soft lighting. I have, therefore, layered the lighting at different heights to create a warm glow. The kitchen island is home to a trio of pendant lights, while there’s a chandelier-esque light over the piano, as well as wall sconces either side of the TV and painting on the opposite wall. Ceiling lighting is only turned on when necessary, such as when Joe works from home.

“Behind the dining table, I have included a cupboard with pocket doors that doubles as a bar – it’s the perfect space for mixing a cocktail or pouring wine. Upon opening its door, the task lighting inside reflects off the antique-effect mirror at the back. Another of Soho House’s typical, eclectic features is the mismatch of furniture. I chose an oak dining table and chairs, and paired this with tan leather bar stools.

“Robert and Joe wanted to have seating on the south side of the island, so that guests could be part of the experience when hosting. With this in mind, I chose a Bora Pure venting hob. It has a recirculating extractor built in, so there is no need for a hood overhead. For a final touch of elegance, Sant Angelo natural granite worktops, from Cosentino’s Sensa brand, continue behind the sink area and form a generous shelf above.”

Designer two

Designer and showroom host Rachael Mellings has worked for Olive & Barr for two years, and has more than eight years of experience in the kitchen design industry.

Solution two

“For Robert and Joe’s kitchen, I have created an inviting space that looks effortlessly stylish and offers practical solutions for their lifestyle. To soften the feel, I’ve incorporated both painted cabinetry and natural wood, which is very on-trend while still being timeless. For the main cabinetry, I chose Farrow & Ball’s James White. This provides a neutral tone that will work with the rest of the living space. An island in solid ash adds a layer of texture and tone, offering a furniture feel inspired by the Soho House vibe.

“The island works as the main preparation and cooking zone, but also as a relaxed entertaining space, and an area for Joe to work from home. To achieve this, I have positioned the Bora venting hob off centre, which provides adequate free worktop space to prepare meals, while allowing the seating to be unencumbered at the opposite end of the island. Placing the bar stools in an L shape around a corner provides a more social seating area and views of the garden, too. Along the back wall, I have created symmetry by utilising a tall unit at either end of the run. These house an integrated Neff fridge-freezer, and a Slide&Hide oven and combination microwave respectively.

“Lighting is key for creating the perfect ambience, whatever the occasion. Here, there are wall lights for more ambient lighting, statement pendants above the island to add personality, spotlights for task lighting, and mood lighting in the glass cabinet.

“Our beautiful traditional pantry unit sits beyond the main kitchen. This gives ample storage for all of Robert and Joe’s dry foods and doubles as an appliance garage, allowing small appliances to be neatly stored away. I’ve also added a glazed bi-fold unit as a bar. Not only is this practical when hosting, it also works to join the kitchen and dining area together. Finally, as all Olive & Barr units are hand-painted, any paw prints from the couple’s pet Willem can easily be rectified.”

Got a design dilemma? For a chance to feature in Kitchens Bedrooms & Bathrooms magazine, submit your plans here

About Post Author