Katie’s kitchen

When Katie Thomson, editor of Guildford Living magazine, was planning her kitchen renovation she knew she wanted a social space that visually flowed into the garden and beyond. 

Katie explained: “I thought long and hard about how I’d use the kitchen. I think the triangular work space concept is a little outdated for how we use kitchens now. Of course it makes sense to keep everything accessible and easy to move around but for me it was also important that the space felt sociable and made the most of the views.” 

The perfect layout 

With a conventional layout using base and wall units made impossible by windows or doorways on all sides, Katie and her kitchen designer chose a classic Shaker style and a practical layout with off-white base cabinets under the windows and a run of tall units to house the oven, fridge-freezer and a pantry with bi-fold doors. 

A central island, painted in contrasting soft charcoal grey, includes a breakfast bar and lots more storage space. Here Katie opted to position the island hob facing out into the room so she can cook while chatting to her guests. 

Floor installed: Canadian Nude Oak

A touch of nature

Katie said: “Because of the painted kitchen finish and white quartz worktops, I wanted to warm up the space with wood. Obviously, kitchen floors need to be robust and able to withstand spills or accidents so I was concerned that a real timber or engineered wood floor would be easily damaged. Having looked at all the options on the market I decided on a rigid core LVT.”

After comparing samples in situ Katie opted for Canadian Nude Oak from the Korlok range. With its neutral colour palette, authentic straight grain details and classic satin finish, this design proved to be the perfect balance for the kitchen’s cool white and grey tones.

Convenient installation

Designed to bring the beauty of nature indoors with a hard wearing surface that can cope with today’s busy homes, the Korlok range is easy to install without the need for specialist tools. 

Katie described her Palio Express experience: “The best bit about this floor was the ease of installation. My partner and I were able to cover a huge area over the course of an evening. The rigid core planks click together easily and have a reassuring solidity.

“I wouldn’t do anything differently. I genuinely adore our new kitchen and love cooking in here. It has a great feel and just functions so well.”

Shop the Korlok range. Psst. Don’t forget you can order 3 free chip samples.