Contemporary Open Plan Kitchen, Theydon Bois
Located on the cusp of Epping Forest in Theydon Bois, this incredible property has been subject to an extensive renovation that has lasted over two years and completely transformed the space into a classic contemporary family home. With a young family and busy everyday lives, the homeowners wanted a space that was family-orientated but also suitable for entertaining friends and family at weekends. Overcoming extensive structural issues such as the removal of a large chimney was a time-consuming process, but the end result meant that the space for the kitchen, dining and living areas are sufficiently open enough to really encompass modern family living.
With a large Spenlow island and a huge false chimney surround for the Wolf range cooker, there is plenty of space for food prep on the island where the prep sink and Quooker hot tap are located with integrated dishwasher and pull out bin handily positioned either side.
The clients wanted the space to have a relaxed and welcoming feel so designating the island for food prep means they can cook and chat to family and friends at the same time. The island has seating for the children to have meals during the day and a spot to serve pre-dinner drinks in the evening.
To the left of the cooking run is the large Sub-Zero fridge freezer while to the right is the day pantry which is used for storing all the dry goods and ingredients. Locating the main fridge freezer and pantry either side of the chimney means that everything is easily to hand – no mean feat in such a large space.
The main sink run is on the far side with a large deerfield sink and second dishwasher and pull out eurocargo bin – this area is tucked just around the corner from the dining area and means tableware and glassware can be easily cleared away after meals.
The kitchen dining area is framed by the bespoke Spenlow cabinetry finished in Smithfield oak with double doors leading out to the utility room and boot room which are nearby but hidden from view from the main kitchen. A large Smithfield pantry cupboard is used for storing additional tableware but could also be utilised as a breakfast pantry, while the two Sub-Zero wine preservation units provide ample storage for wines and champagnes.
Just along from the main kitchen is the living area – an informal space for the family to watch television and enjoy movie nights. With the kitchen, dining and living areas all separated into distinctive zones, the space reflects the versatility of modern family living.
The contemporary clean lines of the Spenlow kitchen suit this space perfectly especially with the soft grey colour palette of our own HM paint colour “Tailored Grey” and the muted tone of the Smithfield oak finish used on the island and dining area cabinetry. The use of the Smithfield oak finish was particularly appropriate given the property is situated on the fringe of Epping Forest and really fits in with the idea of bringing the outdoors in and creating a relaxed and welcoming space.