We talk to Steve O'Neill of Sussex-based Cub Kitchens to find out about the design process behind a contemporary-style project using beautiful oak veneer with a birch ply core.
Photos by Helen Leech.
The brief from the owners for this project was to transform a small, dark kitchen and dated conservatory into a light-filled, open-plan extension with ample space to cook, dine and entertain.
Built from the ground up with sustainability at its core, this timber-clad eco extension had a very Scandinavian feel despite being in the middle of the Sussex countryside. Focusing on sustainability and natural materials the idea was to create a really stylish yet warm and inviting aesthetic, inspired by the effortlessly cool yet cosy style of Scandinavian kitchens.
Here, the owners chose an oak veneer, a perfect blend of beauty and durability. The premium birch ply core offers exceptional strength, stability and moisture resistance, whilst the real oak veneer brings organic warmth with its rich grain pattern.
The oak slab cabinet doors are grain-matched and finished with a simple metal pull handle. The addition of the ebonised oak plinths creates a striking visual break between the wooden floorboards and cupboards, ensuring the design has a refined, contemporary feel. The solid oak reeded panels add extra visual interest.
A simple L-shaped run tucks away appliances and pull-out bins, keeping everything neat and uncluttered. The homeowners chose a Bosch oven, Smeg Cucina hob and Bower Palma boiling water tap.
In the centre, a spacious island provides the perfect spot for casual gatherings. One side has plenty of space to pull up a stool and perch, while the other offers deep drawers for extra storage.
Work surfaces in Bianco Kos Fenix make the most of the available natural light and keep the space clean and bright.
Open shelves and hooks provide a stylish way to display crockery, while spacious storage cabinets keep everything neatly tucked away behind clean, minimalist doors. The hidden internal drawers add smart storage solutions whilst maintaining the sleek, modern aesthetic.
With no space for a dedicated laundry room, the team designed floor-to-ceiling cabinetry to neatly house the owner's washing machine and tumble dryer, incorporating extra built-in space for hanging drying clothes and storing cleaning essentials, keeping everything organised and out of sight.
This style featuring solid timber frames with overlay doors brings warmth, character, and a refined aesthetic to any home. Unlike inset cabinetry, overlay doors sit on top of the cabinet frame, creating a seamless, modern look while still showcasing the timeless appeal of natural wood.
