Uncommon Projects had to move quickly when asked to look at this kitchen in a Victorian terrace in Stoke Newington. The owners were already halfway through extending their side-return to allow for a bigger kitchen. Fortunately, there was still time to suggest some key changes to the plan, which allowed for an improved kitchen layout and living space. Uncommon Projects always try to think about the whole space, working with (and sometimes suggesting changes to) the architecture to make sure every room works to its full potential.

Next to the sink, the wall unit comes down to the worktop. This unusual arrangement conceals a large boiler that could not be moved.  The series of different depth cabinetry and colours changes across the base and wall units helps to hide the scale of the boiler.  This means it adds interest to the design, rather than detracting from it, as a more conventional full height unit might have done.

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The stand out feature in this project is of course the colours. From the beginning the clients were interested in creating a space that was bright and joyful. Uncommon suggested an unapologetic shade of coral pink with orange. On its own this could have been too much and hard to live with long term, so they introduced a base of dark brown. This tones in with the floor and helps ground the scheme. A comfortable family of colours that feels like it could have been there for years, and will work for years more to come.

Of course, Uncommon Projects are rarely just thinking about the kitchen. To complete this space and fill in what could easily otherwise become an unused corner, they created a built-in window seat. This is topped with a vibrant cushion. A great space for watching the seasons change in the garden, reading a book, or just as a nook for the children’s roller boots.