Clients value our holistic approach to interior design – we bring discipline to any project by analysing the big picture decisions as well as engaging with clients on the minute personalised details.
The kitchen, often referred to as the heart of a home, is a space where culinary creativity, social gathering, and everyday life intersect. We believe that a well-designed kitchen should transcend mere functionality – it should reflect your personal style, cater to your lifestyle needs and exude warmth and elegance. When embarking on the design journey of kitchen renovation, it’s essential to strike the perfect balance between practicality and beauty.
When it comes to kitchen design, there are three primary layout types—L-shaped, Galley, and U-shaped/Square kitchens—each offering numerous variations depending on the room’s style, size, and flow. However, the true art of interior design lies in moving beyond these conventional layouts to create spaces that are fully customized to reflect the unique needs and lifestyle of each client. Today’s kitchens are no longer confined to traditional formats; they are thoughtfully tailored to integrate a balance of practicality and aesthetics. Whether you envision a super-modern, minimalist design for an expansive space or a more intimate, functional setup, we collaborate closely with you to explore and visualize bespoke solutions. By blending the best aspects of standard layouts with innovative design elements, we ensure your kitchen is both beautiful and highly functional, crafted to perfectly complement your daily life.
Our starting point is the interior architecture of your space. Kitchens come in all manner of sizes and shapes, as separate rooms or part of open plan living. We do not use a cookie cutter approach to designing kitchens.
Optimising the layout for your kitchen space is essential for creating a space that is functional and inviting. We will typically draw up several layout options and discuss possible arrangements with our clients choice must be thoughtfully guided by factors such as family size, cooking habits, entertaining frequency and available space. Equally vital is understanding how natural light possibly interacts with a space before conducting any spatial strategy to boost its functionality. In the following there are some Layout-Inspirations of our previous projects.
Layouts
Galley Kitchen
A galley kitchen is characterised by two parallel runs of cabinetry and countertops, creating a streamlined workspace with a central walkway. This is often your typical smaller apartment kitchen, especially in traditional Victorian mansion blocs or mid century apartments where kitchens were conceived as small separate rooms, whereas contemporary new builds and house renovations now favour larger, often open plan, kitchen zones.
- The parallel layout of a galley kitchen creates a natural workflow and efficient use of floorspace.
- The linear layout allows clear separation as well as easy access of work zones
- This narrow design makes it convenient to reach pots, pans, utensils, and ingredients, which can simplify cooking tasks
- Decorative decisions, colours, surfaces and lighting will create striking aesthetic effects in a smaller space.
Note: While the images above showcase elements typical of a Galley Kitchen, they do not adhere strictly to the traditional Galley Kitchen layout
L-Shaped (with Island)
- The choice between arranging your kitchen as a Galley or an L shape is primarily driven by the interior architecture; the location of the doors and windows and how to best use the space.
- If your space allows the addition of an island this can incorporate extra cabinets and drawers, or additional appliances such as a winefridge and open shelves which can be attractive decorative features
- The island can accommodate bar stools or be lowered into a casual dining spot with regular chairs
- In larger kitchens, an island can improve traffic flow by creating a clear path around the cooking and prep areas
An island creates an aesthetic appeal; it can be a focal point of the kitchen, allowing for creative design features that enhance the overall aesthetics of the space.
U-Shaped Kitchen
U-shaped kitchen is defined by cabinetry and countertops elegantly arranged in a U-formation, typically spanning three walls
- Creates a natural and efficient workflow, reducing the need for excessive movement during meal preparation
- Makes it easier for multiple people to work in the kitchen simultaneously
- Accommodate a variety of appliances, including larger ones like double ovens or a refrigerator with a built-in ice maker
- Provides privacy for the cook through the enclosed nature
- Utilises corner space efficiently by incorporating corner cabinets or pull-out trays, which maximise storage and accessibility
This image above, for example, is a mixture of a U-shaped Kitchen and a lowered island, creating a convenient, casual dining spot