London Fields Basement

This basement kitchen was a joy to design partly because the clients are such a lovely couple to work for- She is the director of a few restaurants in the city and he a healthy wine afficionado so both had very clear ideas about what they wanted in the space. One of the first things on the list was the spice cupboard, the second, wine storage! Quite early on we decided the island should be kept clear for prep so a galley style kitchen with a large prep island was the starting point. An opulently sized range cooker with large drawers either side for pots and pans took centre stage on the left hand wall under the natural light of the skylight. I suggested a canopy with corbels to house the extractor. The corbels mean you don't need the 'legs' of the mantle which in this case would take up much needed worktop space. This becomes the focal point on that wall. The dressers either side mean the worktops can be kept virtually clear. The left hand one being the spice cupboard and the right hand one having adjustable shelves with space below for worktop appliances. The opposite wall contains the butler sink, American fridge freezer and a pantry. The open shelves above the sink again add a focal point on that wall but also give easy access to regularly used items. The island with its beautiful solid oak Spekva worktop with venetian edge detail is perfect for prepping on and the oak adds a warmth to the room that quartz just would not. The island also holds an abundance of storage - including 2 wine fridges and a wine rack, pan drawers and extra large cupboards (for those annoyingly large items like vases and serving dishes!) Every detail was thought through. Skirting either end of the island adds an air of tradition to the piece while the central working areas that you stand at to prep food are left as the more practical plinth giving space for your toes. Little details like a rail inside the pot drawers to hold lids just make the drawers that more practical with ease of use as a priority.

In the adjoining dining room we added 2 double door full height glazed dressers. These are used for bar type storage of glasses, spirits and cocktail making essentials. Perfectly positioned next to the large antique dining table.