An Open Plan Kitchen Renovation
An open plan kitchen renovation that is a stunning, yet practical space with many natural and warm elements through clever lighting and a bespoke venetian plaster splashback as a dramatic focal point.
The Brief for this Open Plan Kitchen Renovation
The client’s brief for this open-plan kitchen renovation was rooted in creating a warm, welcoming space that could adapt seamlessly throughout the day, both visually and atmospherically. While the property benefits from a stunning south-facing garden, the abundance of natural light often led to the space feeling overly bright and exposed, particularly during peak daylight hours. The challenge, then, was to soften this intensity without losing the uplifting benefits of natural light. The aim was to strike a delicate balance: a home that feels calm and cocooning, yet still bright and open.
At the heart of the design was the need to establish a sense of warmth and comfort – a space where the family could gather, relax and entertain. The open-plan layout was to remain streamlined and clutter-free, in keeping with the architecture of the home, but it was equally important that it didn’t feel too minimal or clinical. The goal was understated elegance: functional and efficient, yet soft, layered and lived-in.
The client was also particularly keen to incorporate multiple lighting options to help shift the mood from daytime activity to evening ambience. A key part of the brief was the ability to define different zones with light, as well as to highlight architectural details like the vaulted ceilings. The lighting design needed to offer variety and control, from task lighting in the kitchen through to more atmospheric solutions in the living and dining areas. This included the integration of smart lighting systems and dimmable circuits, allowing the client to easily create custom scenes that respond to the time of day, season, or activity.
Drama was welcomed, but not at the expense of comfort. The client envisioned subtle contrast, rich tones, and a tactile material palette that would bring depth to the space while maintaining a sense of calm. Every design choice – from the layout to the lighting, from the cabinetry to the curtains – was guided by this central desire: to create a space that felt as cosy as it was considered, a home that worked beautifully for everyday family life while feeling special and inviting at every hour.
The Design Thinking Behind this Open Plan Kitchen Renovation
This open-plan kitchen renovation involved a complete lighting redesign, resulting in a scheme that could adapt beautifully to any mood or moment. Eight independent lighting channels were installed, allowing for a wide variety of lighting scenes to be programmed. From bright and functional to warm and ambient, each zone was carefully considered. The result is a space where lighting doesn’t just illuminate – it elevates, accentuating architectural features, textures and finishes throughout the room.
Thanks to the favourable orientation of the property, the room benefits from an abundance of natural light throughout the day. This generous daylight allowed us to confidently explore a darker, moodier colour palette without compromising the overall brightness of the space. The result is a kitchen that feels grounded and atmospheric yet still light and airy, a delicate balance that works particularly well in open-plan living.
On the back wall, a long run of cabinetry posed a particular challenge when it came to choosing the right splashback. Most traditional materials would require a join at an awkward or overly visible point, something the client was keen to avoid. As a creative alternative, we opted for a decorative Venetian plaster finish. With tones reminiscent of oxidised metal, this striking surface offers texture, depth and drama. Rather than simply performing a practical function, it becomes an arresting focal point and a true piece of art within the kitchen.
Mid-century furnishings in the dining table and sideboards, add another layer of richness to the scheme, their warmth and timeless elegance pairing effortlessly with the contemporary lines of the kitchen. A stylish corner sofa defines the living area, balancing the space and creating a cohesive connection between old and new, casual and considered. Together, these elements feel thoughtfully collected rather than overly coordinated, giving the space a lived-in authenticity that clients love.
We also upgraded the existing windows and doors, replacing them with slim-profile anthracite aluminium frames and softly tinted glazing. This modern update enhances the architectural look of the extension while improving energy efficiency and natural flow to the garden. To soften the structure and introduce gentle movement and light control, we commissioned bespoke sheer curtains that provide elegant daytime privacy and a comforting glow come evening.
This renovation project is a prime example of how thoughtful design and considered choices – whether lighting, materials or layout – can transform a space not just visually, but emotionally and functionally too.
See the full video of the space below.
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