Optimal BuildBuilt with care.
Menu
The Venetian Pantry
  • TypeVictorian House
  • LocationStoke Newington, London
  • ScopeKitchen and loft extension, Refurbishment
  • Size120 sqm
  • Time span2021
  • ArchitectBradley Van der Straten
https://storage.googleapis.com/optimal-cdn-dev/uploads/binda/image/image/7/TVP_kitchen_221212-1_landscape.jpg?GoogleAccessId=optimal@optimal-400218.iam.gserviceaccount.com&Signature=H4wwvKolqf3XXWdBicjl8DTcWLGRTXlPcF4BRlUAx1Cfci0Ghq7Z86b4GCkS%0Ah2oQpYOMRh1morM8SZ6TP31UjtM0E7aaTyTl%2Fif2EWMe3g%2BSBMG2jnMKcDCs%0AmMaHZjUSfalMTiRE44roGLcTFnRArhR%2F%2BYpaPmQiFz0wZ1%2FCRoqwfhjRw%2BWy%0A2pXvDVZao37x8EWRYJGIXvLzQ4QLwAWElzmF9SNUmBd%2FcHUTkbrapo3e0Cht%0AvnsYDd8ffAHEyGUMbibC9h22WWOuS%2BPe1dKLsFPKJLk%2Fta8hPhLgcjOlOwq%2F%0AU1M%2BrKRPftNW%2BmKZd5YfmsJQ6F2Ai9EhSEJR%2F4kDcQ%3D%3D&Expires=1746196548
As graphic designers, Martina and Joe approached their home’s renovation with a distinct vision that combined the rustic aesthetic of Martina’s Italian homeland with a grand, yet contemporary, feel. Working in collaboration with architects Bradley Van Der Straeten, we extended the rear ground floor of this traditional terrace house into two, asymmetrical peaked spaces to create a serene, light-flooded kitchen space for cooking, dining and entertaining.

The earthy, neutral palette evolved during construction, and was inspired by the patina of a section of beautifully crumbly brick wall that Martina and Joe decided to keep exposed, to celebrate the original building. This palette continues into the loft extension, where we created a large master bedroom with dressing area and en-suite, to the couple’s considered, calming brief.
The double pitched rear extention, realised with London bricks to match the existing ones. Photo © French and Tye
The double pitched rear extention, realised with London bricks to match the existing ones.
The warm kitchen was designed to revolve around the Pantry as a focus point. Photo © French and Tye
The warm kitchen was designed to revolve around the Pantry as a focus point.

“As a new homeowner, renovating your first house can be a very daunting and stressful experience. But working with Edi and the Optimal team has been such a smooth and enjoyable experience. They put so much care in everything they do and take pride in their job”Martina & Joe – clients

A view of the pitched side return, with the original bricks and pine joists. Photo © French and Tye
A view of the pitched side return, with the original bricks and pine joists.
An original section of green lime plaster was left exposed reminding Martina of her home city Venice.© French and Tye
An original section of green lime plaster was left exposed reminding Martina of her home city Venice.
The serene living room with its traditional Victorian bay window.Photo © French and Tye
The serene living room with its traditional Victorian bay window.
Arches, curves, soft lime paint and marble tiles was the theme in the loft. Photo © French and Tye
Arches, curves, soft lime paint and marble tiles was the theme in the loft.
The arched door compliments the curve of the wall, which adds a sense of air and openness to the space.Photo © French and Tye
The arched door compliments the curve of the wall, which adds a sense of air and openness to the space.
The master bedroom, located in the loft, features a bespoke window seat Photo © French and Tye
The master bedroom, located in the loft, features a bespoke window seat