Basement Kitchen, Utility Room & Damp-proof Tanking, N1

A basement kitchen renovation that required complete damp-proof tanking

We have been working for this client on several of her properties for more than 20 years. The brief on this project was a new basement kitchen in traditional design, including all associated works.

Our first task was to strip out the existing kitchen then install damp proofing, using membrane and cement-based tanking to eliminate the spread of progressive damp. Once completed, our in-house joiner came to site and worked with the client to design a traditional, Shaker-style kitchen.

We undertook first and second fix plumbing of a new boiler and drainage system, as well as first and second fix wiring of the basement and first and second fix carpentry.

Maintaining space was a priority, so we designed a custom, triangular-shaped cupboard and constructed ‘pocket doors’ that led to the garden: folding doors with pockets where shutters could be concealed and still allow the doors to open fully. Custom sliding doors were fitted to create access off the kitchen.

As we were tasked with all decorative works, we liaised with our trade contacts to keep costs at a minimum. We plastered all walls and ceilings and recommended a range of final fittings, including a Quooker tap to provide instant boiling water at the press of a button. For the work surfaces, we consulted with our specialist stone supplier and accompanied the client to the quarry to choose a specific section of granite, which was cut to the exact specification and fitted throughout the space.

We advised the client on a new, solid floor in natural white oak, which we sourced and fitted, and installed under-floor heating. Re-wired spotlights created the right ambiance for the space.

The project took two months to complete, from November 2016 to January 2017.