The Garden Kitchen
Ashby de la Zouch, Leicestershire
Large-scale projects present an opportunity to rethink how a home works as a whole. Whether through extending a property, removing internal walls to create open-plan living, or relocating the kitchen entirely, these changes require careful planning, clear decision-making and a long-term view.
Our client understood early on that this level of transformation involves more than design alone. With planning permission, architectural input and multiple trades to coordinate, it was important that key decisions around kitchen layout and budget were made at the right stage. Elements such as ducting, plumbing and electrics all needed to be considered early in the build to ensure the finished space functioned exactly as intended.
Open-plan living brings with it its own set of challenges, and without clear definition, large spaces can easily feel underused or lacking purpose. In this design, zoning was key. A recess between two walls provided the ideal location for a dedicated bar area, allowing drinks to be served away from the main food preparation zone and creating a natural hub for entertaining. Opposite the bar, a separate side room was perfectly proportioned to become a butler’s pantry, offering generous additional storage for beverages and glassware while keeping the main kitchen clutter-free.
A striking T-shaped island anchors the space, providing comfortable seating for six while housing the BORA X-Pure induction hob. Positioned to face into the room, it allows our clients to cook while enjoying views across the garden and into the living area. The island also plays a vital role in visually connecting the different zones, carefully positioned to maintain uninterrupted sightlines to the garden on entering the property. Large bi-folding doors flood the room with natural light, while Farrow & Ball’s Lamp Black cabinetry paired with brass handles creates a sophisticated, confident contrast. Tricky corner storage was elegantly resolved with a breakfast pantry that lowers to the work surface, concealing small appliances neatly behind bi-fold doors and preserving the clean lines of the kitchen.
Throughout the project, we worked closely with the wider project team, including builders and electricians, to ensure the kitchen design was fully integrated into the construction process. This collaborative approach helped maintain clarity on site and allowed the project to progress smoothly as the build developed.
As part of the wider vision, we also liaised with the garden designer to ensure a strong connection between the interior and exterior spaces. By considering how the kitchen related to the garden from the outset, the finished result feels cohesive and well-resolved, with inside and outside complementing each other perfectly.
