The wallpaper, Antoinette Poisson’s Jaipur, features swirling botanicals lifted from an 18th-century document. “It was just burning a hole in my pocket, I was so desperate to use it,” says designer Rita Konig, who splashed the pattern over every bare wall in this Notting Hill kitchen. The fashion-industry homeowners took it in stride: “She was very much like, ‘Oh my god, it looks like Gucci!’” recalls Konig.
Being repeat clients, they couldn’t have been too surprised; Konig is known for her textural, idiosyncratic interiors. Here, naturally, she doubled down. Calacatta Viola, a mauve-streaked marble, was selected for the countertops and range backsplash.
Prior to hiring Konig, the owners had commissioned the kitchen’s cabinetry from Plain English—and by pure coincidence, Konig released a new line of colors with the same brand around this time. So her inky eggplant (Burnt Toast), marigold (Nicotine), and off-white (Flummery) colors were used to complement the wallpaper. The result is more cozy English sunroom than kitchen—but with all the functionality of both. “That’s really what I wanted,” says the designer, “a room that just happens to have the kitchen in it.”
More From House Beautiful
Who Lives Here? A couple with 20-something kids, all of whom split time between Notting Hill and New York.
Rattan Pendants
In keeping with the cozy feel, this vintage pair “keeps the room from feeling like a laboratory.”
Splash Guard
An invisible layer of glass under the cabinets protects the wallpaper from splatters and stains.
Natural Wood
Osmo oil, a no-shine natural finish, was used on the floors so they’d more closely match the island countertop.
Plenty of Prep Space
A butcher block island counter, which creates continuity with the wood floors, “stops the whole place from becoming an ice rink,” says Konig. Hardware: Plain English. Fridge: Sub-Zero. Tray: Rita Konig forThe Lacquer Company.
3 Types of Storage
Deep dish drawers, open shelving for art and easy access to coffee cups, and one dainty little glass-front cabinet make up the Plain English kitchen.
Informal Dining
Just off the kitchen is a long wooden table where the family gathers for breakfast and dinner. Pendants: Rose Uniacke. Art, table, and chairs: client’s own.
3 Must-Try Cabinet Colors for Kitchens
On the fence about eggplant? Konig reveals three unexpectedly dashing picks.
Pea Green
Haven by Sherwin-Williams would add a very English touch.
Bright Yellow
Farrow & Ball offers a bold, sunny Babouche.
Dark Green
Little Greene’s Invisible Green is so inky it’s almost black.
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