The 'Peerless' Units

Reclaimed and restored ‘Peerless’ units were taken from another flat in the block and fitted in an arrangement similar to the one found in the original kitchen. These Peerless units were the first mass-produced units in Britain and include early examples of domestic saving devices, such as a fold-down ironing board, table, bench, and flour bins.

The Steel Side

As only some of the units could be reused, half of this 10sqm kitchen was open and required a more contemporary solution to house the sink, hob, and oven. To provide this, a distinct contrast was proposed in the form of a stainless-steel square mass. This allowed the sink to be fully integrated into a continuous countertop that sits on IKEA carcasses faced in stainless steel.

The client approached us looking for a part re-design, part conservation of their kitchen in their 1930s flat, within the Art Deco building of West Hill Court.

Flanking Hampstead Heath and a stone's throw from the Men's Pond, the blended proto-modernist and part futuristic styles of the development formed the basis of our design approach in this compact flat, balancing the love of detailed conservation with the simple function of new units.

The 'Peerless' Units

Reclaimed and restored ‘Peerless’ units were taken from another flat in the block and fitted in an arrangement similar to the one found in the original kitchen. These Peerless units were the first mass-produced units in Britain and include early examples of domestic saving devices, such as a fold-down ironing board, table, bench, and flour bins.

Conclusion

Though modest in size, this project required a meticulous focus on detail and quality material finishes, from door knob to hinge screws. The result is a testimony to the client’s desire to preserve and reinvigorate the period features of their home whilst including much needed modern functionality.