Valchromat, Grey Veneered Tulipwood & Smile Plastics Kitchen | Barnsbury, Islington London
Innovative and unusual kitchen project with Lily Jenks and Smile Plastics collaboration
Lily Jenks designed this project for her brother John, both are children of the renowned post-modernist architect Charles Jenks. With a focus on innovative materials, the Jenks family approached us to utilise Smile Plastics, as EastJR are the recommended supplier and fabricator in London.
The kitchen worktop features a substantial microcement surface complemented by a Smile Plastics knife rack. For the main kitchen area, we chose doors made from dyed tulipwood veneer, which are pressed onto blue Valchromat. This design subtly incorporates the blue Valchromat in the handle details, resulting in a striking contrast with the grey-dyed veneer.
Collaboration was central to the project’s success. We integrated Valchromat and Smile Plastics to form a new product collaboration with Lily Jenks. This involved using offcuts of Valchromat, which were mixed into the Smile Plastics during production. The resulting design features a gradient pattern of sprinkles, with lighter accents at the top gradually becoming denser and larger toward the bottom. This approach is beautifully showcased in the tiered kitchen cladding, where the harmonious blend of materials enhances the overall aesthetic.
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The kitchen's unconventional shape posed unique challenges, necessitating the design of numerous triangular shelves and a desk, all crafted with Smile Plastics. The windows were elegantly framed with a slender profile, and an archway was fashioned from foam and Valchromat, creating a gentle curve above the seating area. A distinctive 360 light, designed by our studio for Ester's, was seamlessly integrated into this project.
Our role as the main contractor involved a comprehensive refurbishment of the entire house. This process included various elements such as lighting installation, damp proofing, electrical work, new kitchen and the creation of a study. Additionally, we crafted unique upholstery for the playroom, designed shelving, and carried out painting throughout the space.
Ultimately, this project embodies a sense of playful creativity, aligning with the client's vision for a bold and unconventional space. In parallel, we were able to ensure that the old kitchen and appliances found a new home, as we coordinated with someone keen to repurpose the previous setup before its relocation.
Project Partners
Joinery Contractor: EastJR
Architect: Lily Jencks Studio
Photographer: Genevieve Lutkin
Materials
Smile Plastics – Used throughout the project, including for triangular shelves, desk and the knife rack.
Valchromat – Integrated into the project, combined with Smile Plastics, and used for offcuts sprinkled into Smile Plastics, as well as for the kitchen doors.
Microcement – Applied as a thick, heavy top surface.
Dyed Tulipwood Veneer – Pressed onto blue Valchromat for the kitchen doors, creating a subtle accent.
Foam – Used for the curved archway above the seating, combined with Valchromat.
360 Light – Designed by your studio, introduced into the project behind the arch.
Smile Plastics Knife Rack – Included as part of the kitchen fittings.
