Elle and Jonathan’s house is a classic detached Victorian but needed modernizing when they moved in – it had a Small kitchen One that doesn’t work or fit properly with the proportions of the rest of the house.
Another issue was publication. ‘There was no natural light at all as there were only a few small windows, so it was dark and not ideal for a busy family life,’ explains Elle.
It was what the couple really wanted Open plan layout With designs that feel warm, inviting and ‘lived-in’, with clear zones where they can enjoy garden views. ‘Our inspiration was to create a kitchen with great function and flow that accommodated our needs; From cooking and entertaining to socializing and working.’
Design brief
(Image credit: The Main Company / Chris Snook)
‘For the design, we collaborated with influencer Reena Simone parent company on the kitchen collection so when we saw her aesthetic we knew we wanted to use elements like flattened cabinets and soft woods in our design.’
Elle and Jonathan decide that a Consider expanding the kitchen The answer would be because it would give them a large, versatile and bright kitchen as well as more living space.
‘Alex at Main really understood our challenge and helped us create a kitchen that was as light and functional as it was stunning. We spent a few months carefully mapping out the right colors, tones and textures, as well as the layout and use of space, keeping in mind the gradual change in visibility with the flow of the kitchen into the garden.’
A work in progress
(Image credit: The Main Company / Chris Snook)
‘Since we decided to hire builders and landscapers for the garden at the same time, it was not easy to have a house with so many people as a construction site,’ says Elle.
The plan was to begin remodeling the garden with significant structural work to create several flowing levels. ‘This allowed the landscapers to finish with the exception of the finishing touches around the perimeter of the house, while the kitchen building was underway. The extension shot up surprisingly quickly, and while it was difficult to live in the temporary space at the front of the house, our new kitchen was soon fitted out in time for Christmas. To be honest, I think we were lucky on this project because we worked with a good team, and it mostly went to plan.’
Innovative lighting solutions
(Image credit: The Main Company / Chris Snook)
One of the main problems with the original kitchen was the lack of light which made the space feel both small and dark. Creative solutions were needed to completely upgrade the previous kitchen into the one Elle and Jonathan wanted.
‘Adding more light was a key part of our design brief, so new floor-to-ceiling windows and a huge skylight on the extension’s roof completely transformed that.’
Other design aspects that were implemented to bring in more light included white work tops on the units and island, light floor tiles and the back wall and ceiling painted white.
(Image credit: The Main Company / Chris Snook)
Three fluted glass pendants were placed above the island for ambiance and function Lighting As well as clever additions, the ‘lighting is really well designed. It is zoned just like the room, layered on the ceiling, inside and outside the cabinets, on the shelves and even around the edge of the huge skylight in the ceiling. People spontaneously comment on the range of options and dim functions,’ explains Elle.
bring out
(Image credit: The Main Company / Chris Snook)
‘When designing the kitchen with Maine, we wanted to bring the outdoors indoors, so we introduced a nature-inspired color palette with lots of wood cladding and green and rust painted cabinets and used other woods,’ says Elle.
The couple has chosen colors Slaked lime on the walls, invisible green on kitchen cabinetry and the heat At the kitchen island, all by Little Green.
(Image credit: The Main Company / Chris Snook)
‘For me, cladding from Maine is my favorite design element in a room. It makes me feel like I’m in a ski chalet in the mountains because it’s so warm, welcoming and rustic, and it adds so much character and texture to the kitchen,’ says Elle.
Storage solutions
(Image credit: The Main Company / Chris Snook)
Kitchen storage ideas One important aspect was the fluted glass wall units that let light through, right down to the floor-to-ceiling cabinetry. ‘The new kitchen utilizes every space to its best potential with plenty of storage, various seating options and touches of our personal style at every point. We also opened the doors to the back lounge so you could see in and walk right in.’
(Image credit: The Main Company / Chris Snook)
Elle and Jonathan chose a combination of ‘on view’ storage and hidden which really adds an eclectic mix to the kitchen design.
‘I really like our bespoke brass panel on the wall which ‘dresses up’ the gold leaf hanging rail next to the range cooker. Not only is it a very functional way to store pots and pans, but it looks great! It was handcrafted by a local craftsman and has a marble effect that reflects the rustic orange tones in the room. It almost looks like a piece of artwork!’
Recreate the style of Elle and Jonathan’s kitchen
Berkfield Home
Kitchen wall cabinets with glass doors in artisan oak
This is a great value oak style wood wall cabinet with glass doors that allow you to easily see your tableware. Sturdy and well made, choose two next to each other for extra storage.
Naturewall
Slatewall Acoustic American Walnut Slatted Wall Panel, 2.4 x 0.6m
Slatted panels are a great way to add a more natural yet contemporary feel to your space and also bring warmth and character.
B&Q
Rothley brushed antique brass effect stainless steel kitchen accessory rail
Keep pots and pans on display with this antique style brass hanging rail that will add charm to your kitchen.
‘The kitchen is a completely different space now that it has doubled in size and allowed us to live in a new way. Previously, it was very difficult to cook, entertain or work there due to lack of light, limited space and poor layout. It was designed for Victorian times, not 2026! Choosing to add an extension was the best thing we could have done – and we’ve never looked back. It completely changes the flow of the house and it’s a joy to spend time here. We can’t wait to get home at the end of the day to relax and spend time together.’
If you enjoyed reading this, sign up for Ideal Home Newsletter All the latest home decor trends and inspiration delivered straight to your inbox
