Dark Grey Handleless Kitchen
Southampton

The project came about as part of a larger insurance renovation after an invasive bamboo plant forced the homeowners to gut the entire ground floor. With the opportunity to rethink their living space, they planned a small extension and came to Kitchen Lifestyles looking for something ultra-modern, minimal, and easy to live with.

They were particularly detail-focused and wanted a layout that was both visually crisp and practically perfect. Their goal was a calm, clean space that would reflect the new, contemporary feel of the rest of the house.

We proposed a true handleless design using Ballerina kitchens, selecting Art Pepper, a rich dark grey lacquer exclusive to the brand, for the cabinetry. This tone created a dramatic backdrop, contrasting with the island that was finished in Light Pepper, a complementary lighter grey from the same collection.

The worktops were carefully chosen in a matte quartz that closely matched the dark cabinetry, particularly on the sink run, creating a seamless tone-on-tone effect. Premium appliances, including a downdraft extractor hob by Miele, were integrated with ergonomic precision.

To meet the client's need for a generous island without visible joins, we used a clever design detail: the island was constructed in two sections with a thicker quartz slab defining the overhanging breakfast bar. This approach not only concealed the join but also helped visually zone the seating area.

The kitchen also features expertly positioned drainer grooves and ovens set at eye level, ensuring both visual symmetry and ergonomic ease. Hidden finger rails in the upper cabinetry allow for uninterrupted lines, with bi-fold lift-up doors maintaining the smooth, minimalist aesthetic.

This was a significant project for Kitchen Lifestyles, not just because of its design ambition, but because it marked the very first official collaboration between Paul and Derek. The entire process, from layout planning to final fit, was managed and delivered in-house.

Although the bar area wasn’t part of the original installation due to budget reallocation, it was completed around 18 months later using the same materials. The consistent finish and attention to detail allowed it to blend effortlessly with the original design.

The result is a cool, contemporary kitchen with bold character and exceptional craftsmanship. It’s a space that speaks to the client’s original brief and to Kitchen Lifestyles’ ability to meet complex requirements with creative, carefully executed solutions.