Get a Free Quote
At Matthew James Kitchens, we love turning tricky spaces into beautiful, functional living areas. Our recent project in Kings Heath is a perfect example of this; we were able to merge kitchen, dining and lounge areas while overcoming some difficult architectural obstacles. This project allowed us to flex our creative muscles and show why we are considered the best in bespoke kitchen design.
The Brief
We were over the moon when a young family found us online and approached our team with a great but tricky brief. Their home, a lovely property in Kings Heath, had a big space but with its own set of challenges that required our expertise to overcome:
- The room was long and narrow, so we had to be clever enough to fit the kitchen, dining, and lounge areas without feeling cramped or disjointed.
- A small utility room next to the main space needed to be better integrated and more functional to meet the family’s daily needs.
- The entire length of one wall had low windows, which, while lovely, limited our options for cabinetry or appliances against that wall.
- When we removed the old kitchen, we found floor-level variations, which would need to be sorted before we could start the new design. Often and as was the case here, old kitchens are often configured in a way where’s there’s no way of telling how bad or unlevel a floor is until the rip-out is complete. Rest assured, we are always ready and prepared for anything.
They wanted a space that would meet their practical needs but also be a social hub for family life. They wanted a kitchen where they could cook while interacting with the children, entertain friends and have quality family time. This multifunctional aspect of the brief was great for us as it allowed us to show off our ability to create connections.
These flowing spaces make daily life better.
The Design Process
Overcoming Structural Challenges
The first challenge we faced was the different floor levels that were revealed after the old kitchen was removed. This was a big one to overcome, not just for aesthetics but to allow the underfloor heating system to be installed properly.
Our team of skilled craftsmen worked tirelessly to level the floor, creating a smooth and even surface for the new kitchen. This involved a thorough assessment of the existing subfloor, strategic use of self-levelling compounds and expert screeding techniques.
The result was a perfectly level floor that not only provided a base for the underfloor heating but also meant our cabinetry and island would sit flush, adding to the overall high-end finish of the kitchen.
Maximising Space and Functionality
Now that the structural issues were sorted we could focus on maximising the space. This is where we really get to show off our design skills and problem-solving.
Multi-faceted Storage Wall
We had an angled wall that could have been a problem in the room. But we saw it as an opportunity to create a clever storage solution. We designed a multi-faceted storage area that not only disguised the angle but also provided multiple storage options:
- A full-height larder unit with adjustable shelving is used for the storage of various-sized items.
- The breakfast pantry has an integrated worktop for small appliances like toasters or coffee makers. It can be closed off when not in use to maintain the kitchen’s sleek look.
- Open shelving for decorative display or to keep frequently used items within easy reach.
This solved the storage problem and turned a design challenge into a design feature.
Reconfigured Utility Room
The old utility room was tiny, but we saw potential and reconfigured it to make it very functional:
- We stacked the washing machine and tumble dryer to free up floor space.
- We added loads of shelving to make the most of the vertical space for laundry bits, cleaning equipment and other household bits.
- We hid the heating manifold so it’s easy to access for maintenance but out of sight.
- We created a space for a coffee machine, so now the utility area is a bit luxurious, and we’ve freed up space in the main kitchen.
These changes turned the utility room into a useful space that works with the main kitchen.
Efficient Kitchen Layout
The long and narrow room and low windows meant we had to think outside the box for the kitchen layout:
- We designed a bank of units along the wall to make the most of the space and house the ovens. This consolidated all the tall elements of the kitchen and looked streamlined.
- A large island was placed as the focal point of the room, and we’ll get to the details of what it does later.
- We added a small peninsula to subtly define the kitchen and living areas without creating a barrier. This design keeps the space open but provides a natural transition between the zones.
Bespoke Banquette Seating
One of the things we love about this design is the custom banquette seating. This sums up our approach to multifunctional, space-saving solutions:
- The banquette connects the kitchen and living areas, creating a flow between the two.
- We put storage under the seating, using every inch of space.
- It’s a sociable dining area for family meals or entertaining friends.
- By tucking the seating into the corner created by the peninsula, we’ve maximised space and created a little nook within the bigger open-plan area.
The banquette adds functionality and comfort to the space and makes it feel warm and cosy.
The Island: A Multifunctional Focal Point
The large island we designed is the heart of the kitchen and sums up our philosophy that everything should be beautiful and functional. Here’s how we made the island a focal point:
- We chose a gorgeous Corian worktop in Raincloud. This material looks luxurious and is durable and low maintenance, perfect for a family kitchen.
- A Quooker boiling water tap was installed for convenience; there is no need for a kettle, and it saves worktop space.
- A Bora venting hob was fitted, keeping the island looking sleek and providing powerful extraction. This clever appliance allows for unobstructed views across the island, making the space feel more social.
- An integrated wine cooler was built into the island, perfect for entertaining and keeping drinks at the right temperature.
- We designed storage solutions within the island, including deep drawers for pots and pans and special compartments for cooking utensils and cutlery.
- A breakfast bar was incorporated into the island design as a casual dining area and a spot for friends and family to hang out while food is being prepared.
The island truly embodies the multifunctional nature of the entire design, serving as a cooking area, social hub, storage solution, and dining space all in one.
Materials and Finishes
We chose our materials and finishes to create a cohesive, high-end look that met our client’s style and lifestyle:
Cabinetry
We went for a Skinny Shaker style, a modern take on a classic. To add visual interest and define different areas of the space, we used two colourways:
- Stock Putty for the towers, seating and pantry, and a neutral backdrop to make the space feel bigger.
- A custom colour-matched Farrow & Ball Arsenic for the island, a focal point that adds personality to the room.
Worktops
We chose 38mm thick Corian in Raincloud for the main kitchen worktops. For the integrated sink, we used Corian in Glacier White, which is a seamless, hygienic surface that’s easy to clean and maintain.
Flooring
Karndean flooring was chosen for its durability, style and low maintenance. The wood effect finish adds warmth to the space and can withstand the high traffic of a busy family kitchen.
Hardware
We chose 38 handles that match the cabinetry style and enhance the overall design. These little details make a big difference in the result of the kitchen.
Attention to Detail
At Matthew James Kitchens, it’s the small details that make a good kitchen great. In this project, our attention to detail is evident in the finer points of the design:
- We used dovetail drawers in the pantry and hob area, which are traditional craftsmanship, quality, and durability.
- Two spice racks were incorporated into the design, and storage for herbs and spices was within easy reach of the cooking area.
- Banquette seating has custom upholstery, comfort and the ability to personalise the space.
- Two Space Tower 300 drawer systems, maximum storage efficiency and easy access to items at the back of deep cabinets.
- An integrated bin system was built into the design, as well as discreet waste management and recycling.
- Plinth profile detailing is at the base of the cabinetry, and we pay attention to detail even in the smaller areas.
State-of-the-Art Appliances
We included high-end appliances to match our bespoke cabinetry and design:
- A Neff Oven N90 B64CT73G0B with slide and hide doors and pyrolytic self-cleaning.
- A Neff Flex Compact Oven N90 C24MS71G0B.
- A Neff Warming Drawer N90 N24HA11G1B.
- A Bora M Pure venting hob with a sleek cooktop and integrated extraction, so you don’t need a separate hood.
- A Neff Wine Cooler KU9213HG0G.
These appliances not only work well but look great, too.
The Finished Product
- A kitchen, dining and lounge all in one long, narrow space, creating a cohesive and flowing interior.
- There is plenty of storage throughout, cleverly integrated into the design to maximise space without compromising on style.
- A stunning island that’s a workspace and social hub, the heart of the whole space.
- A utility room reconfigured to make the most of a small space, working in tandem with the main kitchen.
- Bespoke solutions to the room’s unique challenges, such as the low windows and angled wall, turning problems into design features.
- High-end finishes and appliances to withstand the demands of family life.
This Kings Heath project shows off our skills at Matthew James Kitchens in creating bespoke, multi-functional living spaces for modern family life. By understanding our clients’ needs and the space itself, we have created a kitchen that is not just a place to cook but also the hub of the home.
We excel at overcoming space and structural issues to create a design that feels open, warm and luxurious. From clever storage solutions to chosen finishes and appliances, we have thought out and executed every detail of this kitchen.
We’re pleased to have proved once again why we are the go-to bespoke kitchen designers, a space that will bring joy and functionality to this young family for years to come. This Kings Heath home is a great example of what we can do when our craftsmanship meets design, even in the trickiest of spaces.
At Matthew James Kitchens, we don’t just design kitchens. We create living spaces that improve our client’s daily lives; we bring their ideas to life and solve design challenges. This Kings Heath project is a perfect example of our philosophy and approach, and we look forward to many more coming.
A Personal Journey with Matthew James
At Matthew James Kitchens, we've been at the heart of homes for generations, watching kitchen trends evolve while staying true to timeless craftsmanship. As a family-run business deeply rooted in our community, we understand that your kitchen is more than just a room—it's the soul of your home.
- Award-winning designs featured in Beautiful Kitchens magazine
- Over two decades of experience
- Bespoke kitchen designs tailored to individual tastes and lifestyles
- Wide range of styles
- Fully equipped showroom
- Finance options
Have a question?
As a family-run business that values transparency, we understand the importance of timing. Every kitchen is unique, just like the families we serve. Typically, from initial design to the final polished surface, a bespoke kitchen can take anywhere from 6 to 12 weeks. But rest assured, we'll work closely with you to ensure the process fits seamlessly into your life.
This is where our expertise truly shines. There's no one-size-fits-all answer, as each home and homeowner has different needs. We take pride in sitting down with you, perhaps over a cup of tea in our showroom, to understand how you live, cook, and entertain. Whether it's a classic work triangle or a more modern zoned approach, we'll craft a layout that's as functional as it is beautiful
This is a question we get asked all the time. In our experience, clever storage solutions are the unsung heroes of a well-designed kitchen. From pull-out pantries to bespoke corner units, we have a myriad of tricks up our sleeves to ensure every inch of your kitchen works hard. After all, a clutter-free kitchen is a joy to cook in, whether you're whipping up a quick weekday dinner or hosting a grand Sunday roast for the family.
