Thoughtful & timeless kitchen
As the kids flew the nest, a dynamic couple undertook an architectural renovation, in which the kitchen by Inglis Hall — The Kitchen Maker, based in East Sussex, became the beating heart of their home. For this project within a Victorian terrace home in North London, the bold vision of architect Nikki Blustin is masterfully combined with the thoughtful kitchen created by designer and project manager Jay Powell.
Pursuing the balance between craftsmanship, natural beauty and contemporary design that characterises the whole house, FENIX® Verde Comodoro was chosen for the kitchen cabinetry. The material’s deep green creates a charming contrast with the Oak veneer dominating the kitchen island. A natural palette surrounds the open plan space, complementing the tropical greenery visible from the glass windows.
Originally a dark, north-facing space, it is now a warm living kitchen filled with light. Inglis Hall tells us more about this ambitious project.
How was merging the vision of architect Nikki Blustin with yours?
From the outset, the goal of this project was to create a seamless fusion of contemporary living with an enhanced connection to nature. Working with Nikki’s philosophy of holistic design and sustainable living, the vision for the kitchen extension was more than functional, it was about creating a way of life, fostering engagement with the outdoors and transforming everyday living into an immersive experience.
How did you accomplish this way of life in the kitchen design?
We created a kitchen that complements this philosophy, to sit centre stage, celebrating natural materials and texture, generating warmth and depth, unity and flow throughout the space. From the material palette to the position of the island and the addition of the clad window, everything was meticulously considered to create a warm, nurturing environment.
The combination of wood elements, tropical greenery and contemporary design is perfectly balanced in this open space. How was it achieved?
Inglis Hall’s band-sawn oak with its textured surface is alive with tactile detail, lending warmth and authenticity to any space. This, paired with contemporary, sustainable materials like FENIX, creates a striking interplay between texture and sleek precision. Used sparingly but with intent, these contrasting materials amplify the oak’s presence while introducing contemporary refinement. Together, they bring the whole space to life, balancing heritage with innovation.
Why did you choose Verde Comodoro from FENIX palette?
The elegant green/grey hue of Verde Comodoro has a calm, restorative contemporary feel, emphasising the connection to the surrounding landscape. It perfectly complements the band-sawn oak and choice of work surfaces.
The embracing natural light beautifully matches with FENIX’s extreme opacity, while the marble worktop and backsplash add a touch of brilliance. What visual and haptic feelings did you expect the family to experience in the kitchen?
Overall, the result is a feeling of openness, light and clean lines, with materials and considered design enhancing the sensory experience. The juxtaposition of raw, tactile band-sawn oak with the velvety touch of FENIX and the reflective marble surfaces and a polished floor provides a whole sense of refinement and fluidity.
The kitchen turned into the house’s beating heart. Can it be defined as “timeless”?
We don’t tend to follow trends. To us, true craftsmanship never goes out of style. We craft kitchens that are personal, professional, and refined. Kitchens that age gracefully and become a cherished part of a client’s life. To us, that is timeless.
Photo credit: Leigh Simpson.
Jay Powell
After completing his degree in Product Design Technology at Loughborough University, Jay Powell joined Inglis Hall in 2018. He learned how to make kitchens from scratch, getting involved in the process of making everything, an essential foundation for any kitchen designer. In 2024, Powell won the KBB Designer of the Year for a Georgian manor house set behind woodland near the shore in East Lothian. A completely contemporary kitchen in a period house with original features proves that contemporary design can go anywhere.