MIMSTUDIOS

Our wrap-around extension in Walthamstow has expanded the existing galley kitchen to accommodate a generous central dining area that doubles as a social gathering space for household members and guests alike. The peninsula layout of the kitchen utilises the full width of the plot, creating a spacious central zone for such gatherings. Cabinets engage with each internal elevation individually whilst maintaining coherence through a consistent datum line across. 

On the south side, the volume of the top cabinets extends vertically towards the skylight, enhancing the diffused light with tints of blue-green. The sculpted edge of the skylight opening in the ceiling maximises natural light toward the rear reception room, echoing the soft curved corners of the cabinets in plan.

On the north side, the volumetric play between the full-height cabinets and the hung cabinets takes advantage of the party-wall buildup behind, accommodating additional worktop space. These lower cabinets extend past the upper ones and then come to a gentle stop with a curve towards the main opening.

The turn-and-slide door system at the end of the kitchen spans the full width of the extension. This flexible system allows any desired glass pane to remain in place, providing playful yet utilitarian partitioning across the opening. When fully open, the interior kitchen volume completely unites with that of the exterior garden.

The custom-designed pergola, aligning with the upper corner of the main opening, reinforces the extension of the internal space onto the patio. In this particular location, the canopy receives the last sunrays of a summer sunset, functioning more as a space-making feature than a shelter. As shadows from its timber slats extend deep into the kitchen, it bridges the concepts of a personal sanctuary and a space connected to the broader environment.

“We are so pleased with our kitchen extension and hugely appreciative of all MIMStudios’ work, help and insight. MIMStudios took us through every step of the way, from initial ideas to finishing touches, always available when we had questions. They used computer generated visualisations which were an enormous help when deciding how the space, light, colours and materials will look and work. They were attentive to our wishes but were also expert at suggesting enhancements and ideas throughout, continually pushing the vision, with a real sense for how the details work together to make the whole. Working with MIMStudios has been a pleasure and a great experience, we would recommend them without hesitation!”

Externally, the compact garden, also arranged in a peninsula layout, mirrors the kitchen. Looking back towards the extension, the colour of the render finish visually extends the lush green surrounding the onlooker. The warmth of the timber flooring is accentuated from this perspective, reinforcing the idea of the kitchen as the hearth of the house.

Photos by Henry Woide