A Kitchen That Belongs to the Architecture
Rooted in architecture and defined by simplicity, this serene and symmetrical kitchen blurs the lines between interiors and structure, crafted in harmony with its valued surroundings and the Leicht design ethos.
For renovation project in the West Sussex countryside, our clients approached us with a clear vision: a kitchen rooted in simplicity and symmetry, one that felt less like a traditional kitchen and more like an extension of the home’s architecture.
Working closely with them, we designed a space that blends seamlessly into the vaulted, light-filled interior. A minimal back run keeps the aesthetic clean, housing integrated cooling appliances and hidden worktop space, as low-level ovens within the central island keeps the main giveaways out of sight. A bespoke sink niche takes centre stage, framed by layered wall units that offer both storage and soft task lighting. Every element was carefully considered—including the positioning of sockets on the side of tall units to preserve the uninterrupted backsplash view.
Set between full height glazing and sliding doors, the kitchen opens to both an internal courtyard and a paved patio. A continuous slot window runs just beneath the pitched roofline, framing views of the sky and surrounding nature. In the summer, with the windows open and the breeze flowing through, there’s a real sense of cooking outdoors.
Materiality was key in delivering the desired architectural blend. Only two finishes were used: a warm light oak that mirrors the timber ceiling, anchoring the kitchen to the building fabric; and a pale ceramic that echoes the flooring, creating the illusion that the island rises from the ground. The two-tone island features oak to the front-facing, functional side—offering a tactile warmth where it matters most.
Symmetry underpins the entire layout. All units and cupboards are designed in equal widths, reinforcing the calm, considered design language. By stripping-back the visual noise and allowing honest materials and proportion to take the lead, this kitchen perfectly reflects the Leicht ethos: clean-lined, architectural, and quietly sophisticated.
