PROJECT: Contemporary new-build | LOCATION: Farnham | YEAR: 2020

Jan and Philip set out to build a low energy, eco-house which would see them into their old age, and they wanted their kitchen to do the same. Philip project managed the build himself and together we worked hard to think about the challenges that may arise over the coming years and how we could future-proof their kitchen. They decided against any tall units, opting instead for mid-height ones in which we installed their fridge and a small oven and warming drawer. A second main oven was placed in the island, easily accessible and a great use of space. 

The architecture lent itself to having the hob under a wide picture window, and because the hood on an extractor fan would have obstructed the view, the best solution for this was a Bora with an integrated extractor, thus negating the need for a hood altogether. This was fitted in recirculating mode, meaning there was no external ducting, helping the house to remain airtight (the house had a mechanical ventilation and heat recovery system fitted to manage the flow of air throughout it). Additional storage, including a freezer, was provided by the walk-in larder just a few steps away.

The island was designed to have an open shelf cut-out that provided a lovely bit of detail, which is visible from both the garden and dining area. The handleless units are lacquered in Little Greene Scree, softened by the oak plinths and handle rails running the length of the hob and sink, finished off beautifully by quartz worktops - Silestone Classic White with a suede finish. Altogether this resulted in a simple, spacious and light kitchen that provides both function and beauty, now and well into the future.