The story: This 1930s detached house in Kent has had a complete renovation, which includes a rear and side single-storey extension as well as a loft conversion. Internal walls were knocked down to create one large, open-plan kitchen-diner-living space that flows seamlessly onto the garden complete with outdoor kitchen.

The designer: Robert Jackson at McCarron & Co (www.mccarronandco.com)

Designer Q&A:

Q) What was your brief from the client?

The clients wanted an open-plan design with distinct zones including areas for cooking and dining as well as a snug. They love to entertain so were keen on having a large island unit and a table big enough to seat 12.

 Q) How did you answer the brief?

Originally the design was planned to be on the opposite side of the room but as there were a large quantity of appliances to incorporate, I moved the table into a position near the sliding glass doors and added a long island running down the opposite wall. This has the benefit of creating three distinct zones as well as providing more space for cabinets.

Q) Was there any building or renovation work involved?

Yes, the house has undergone a total remodeling with side and rear extensions as well as a loft conversion.

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

The island acts as a natural barrier to the cooking and food prep while the abundance of natural light really makes this scheme stand out. Also, the way the classic style blends so well with the modern appliances really works.

Q) Any advice for someone who may be planning a new kitchen?
Think about having a hand-painted finish on cabinets, as if the colour does ever go out of style, you can easily give it a refresh.

The details…

Kitchen by McCarron & Co, www.mccarronandco.co.uk

Handles by Ged Kennet, www.gedkennet.co.uk

Worktops by P Challen, www.pchallen.co.uk

Appliances by Wolf and Sub-Zero, www.subzero-wolf.co.uk

Boiling water tap by Quooker, www.quooker.co.uk

Hayley loves: the walk-in larder, which offers stacks of storage for dried foods as well as all those larger items that are difficult to store elsewhere.