The story: The owners of this property wanted a larger, brighter kitchen with an island. The space was modest, so the room was first extended to incorporate a former utility room and a window was replaced with a glazed door to let more light in.

The designer: Gareth Davies at Classic Interiors (www.classicinteriors.co.uk)

Designer Q&A:

Q) What was the brief from the client?

They wanted the new space to flow better and were keen to retain an island in the design, even though the existing one was quite restrictive. They also wanted the room to be light and airy and be connected to the garden.

Q) How did you set about answering that brief?

We re-planned the layout, turning the island position around to improve the flow and making use of the extra space from the old utility room. We brought more light into the room by selecting gloss white cabinet doors that reflect light around the space. The glass splashback meanwhile, adds depth and personality, balancing the white units. A complementary colour was also chosen for the island – a warm cashmere which also adds interest. Finally, we incorporated plenty of storage so that all the surfaces could be free of clutter.

Q) Which products did you use and why?

We chose a handless gloss white door from the Mereway Futura range, as this always makes a room appear more airy and spacious than it really is. We teamed this with light Silestone worktops and a warm oak floor.

Q) Was there any building/renovation work involved?

Yes, the kitchen was made larger by extending into the former utility room. A window in the utility was also replaced with a glazed door to bring more light in.

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

The island works really well in the new layout. It provides plenty of worktop space without being too big for the room. It creates a lovely focal point and is extremely practical with a built-in hob and extensive storage.

Q) Any advice for someone who may be planning a new kitchen?

Lighting the kitchen correctly is vital. Consider how best to maximise natural light with the addition of glazed doors or skylights and think about where the sun rises and sets. Once the natural light has been maximised, add in task and mood lighting.

The details:

Futura gloss white and cashmere furniture by Mereway, www.merewaykitchens.co.uk
Polished Blanco Stellar Silestone worktops by Cosentino, www.silestone.co.uk
Appliances by Neff, www.neff-home.com
Sink and tap by Franke, www.franke.com
Lighting by Sensio and JCC, www.sensio.co.uk and www.jcc.co.uk

Hayley loves: the lilac splashback and bold yellow bar stools, which bring warmth and personality to the space

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