A kitchen for entertaining - Rebecca Corley Interiors

Kitchens are no longer just a room for preparing food, they are now the heart of the home, an busy space for eating, working and entertaining. The concept of a formal dining room has become outdated and is being replaced by a more relaxed living/dining space. However, creating an open plan design with multiple uses has many considerations which need to be formed at the initial stages. Clients should define how the space functions, how people move through it and the ways they like to entertain. Do they want to be able to talk to friends while preparing food, have romantic meals with soft lighting or host raucous cocktail parties? All these questions need to be answered to determine the layout and style of the design. Ultimately the space should feel seamless, blending with decor throughout the house. 

This recently completed extension by Rebecca Corley Interiors is part of a larger renovation project for a client who loves to cook and have people over for food. The open plan kitchen and living room was designed in conjunction with Elementi Cucina with a key focus on entertaining. The space includes a large island, bar and dining area, perfect for friends and family to gather around while hosting. 

Rebecca has kept the main palette neutral, creating a calm and restful feel, with highlighted colour accents in the lighting and soft furnishings. Her clients are also keen art collectors and it was imperative that the interior scheme complimented their artwork, picking up on the rich tones. Our Pop Light Large in Sargasso and Denim optic have a classical yet contemporary feel which blends beautifully with the painted cabinetry and dark metal hardware. Their are layers of warm materials that invite guests to relax and feel comforted.The soft cluster of Mineral Pendants in Agate and Aqua Lazurite adds a warm focus over dining table, the perfect accompaniment for a dinner party!  

Images: LIG Photography, @Bouquet_g

Applying texture to any design is crucial to create interest, warmth, and a personality. I call it the ‘layering effect’ and love using fabrics and soft furnishings to achieve this in a mix of tints and tones of the chosen colour scheme. Rebecca Corley