An inviting colour palette and carefully zoned layout are key to this kitchen’s success. First, we decided to move the kitchen from a tiny room at the side of the property into a central area, previously used as a dining room, to create a space better suited to a family of five. We also extended the room to provide more space and to afford panoramic views of the garden. We wanted to develop “zoning” ideas to maximise the practicality of the room for family life and to experiment with a darker, richer palette of materials than the usual light and white, to create a welcoming, warm space. The layout is focussed around a large island, which does not include a sink or hob on its surface. This is the monolithic slab in the space, its simple design serving to amplify the beauty of the material it is made from; we chose an ultra-durable concrete-effect quartz to sweep across its top and down to the floor. The island links the other ‘components’ of the room: a distinct zone for washing up, opposite a cooking area, each fitted into niches created by structural pillars. Close to the dining table is a breakfast and drinks station, with boiling water tap, out of the way of the main working areas of the room. Working with interior designer Clare Pascoe of Pascoe Interiors, we selected clean-lined cabinetry in inky blue and dark wood, creating a rich effect offset by a smoked wood floor and natural oak and blue stools. The stronger colours add character and definition, and accentuate the role of the kitchen as the heart of the home.