Destiny Smith has worked at Harvey Jones for six years, and she is the Senior Kitchen Designer responsible for this eclectic and colourful space. Harvey Jones kitchens have been hand-made using traditional methods in their Cambridgeshire workshops for over 30 years.

Q: What were the stand-out priorities in your brief from the client?

The island was the focal point , and we designed the rest of the kitchen around it. Having the hob on the island was a key factor when setting out the layout, and this helped to determine the rest of the kitchen design. The steps down from the island allowed the kitchen area to look elevated and pleasingly, it stood out even more.

Q: How did you set about interpreting that brief, and what were your first thoughts when you saw the space you had to work with?

Our clients were keen to create a ‘wow factor’ space which of course had to work in every practical sense too. The idea was to keep the space open and sociable for entertaining as well as allowing everyone to enjoy the garden. When I first saw the architects plans I was instantly excited and could envisage the final look straightaway!

Q: Explain the reasons behind the choices of cabinetry and work surfaces, regarding colour, style and texture …

The stunning marble looking worktop created the back drop for the rest of the kitchen. As the look of the stone is on the ‘cool’ side, we decided to keep the cabinets within the same theme, choosing two different blues. These choices made for a perfect relationship with the rest of the furniture planned for the area.

Q: What design elements do you think make the scheme so successful?

The design is a success for a number of reasons … The cool colours of the kitchen cabinets against the rest of the warm furniture. The simplicity of the kitchen layout that successfully incorporates the supporting steel beams. The floor level differences also added a great depth and interested to the overall look. Our popular Shaker style was defiantly the right way to go as it seamlessly blended in with everything else in the room.

Q: What is your best advice for someone who may be planning a new kitchen?

The best advice I can give is to engage with a kitchen design as soon as possible in the whole process. This helps with the building work, timescales and scheduling. Ultimately the kitchen company will help you to get all your ducks in a row with the result that you get the kitchen you want, within the right timescale and the right budget.

We Love: All the different quirky details in this kitchen, from the combination of colours to the dining chairs, the bar stools and of course the painted cabinetry. A totally clever combination!

Cabinets: All made by Harvey Jones, 268 Upper Street, Islington, London N1 2UQ, using traditional construction methods and featuring in-frame doors and drawers. Painted in Midnight Blue and French Gray by Dulux. Work Surfaces: Polished Quartzite Worktop, Blanco Perfecto. All Harvey Jones

Fridge-freezer, Fisher + Paykel; Dishwasher, Neff; Boiling water tap in chrome, Quooker; Black ceramic induction hob and oven, Miele; Sputnik ceiling pendant, Vinterior; Regal Grey matt floor tiles, Topps Tiles.