3rd July 2026 | IN INTERIOR DESIGN PROJECTS | BY SBID Share Tweet Pinterest LinkedIn In an industry often focused on what is new, Yotam Ottolenghi’s recently refreshed kitchen offers a valuable reminder of the importance of designing for longevity. More than a decade after its original installation, the Roundhouse kitchen remained so successful that the refurbishment focused not on replacing it, but on carefully evolving it. Few compliments carry more weight than a returning client. When someone has lived with a kitchen every day, raised a family around it, cooked thousands of meals, hosted friends and relied on the space for years, choosing to return to the same designer speaks volumes about the success of the original project. That is exactly what happened when internationally renowned chef, restaurateur and food writer Yotam Ottolenghi returned to Roundhouse to refresh the kitchen in his North London Georgian townhouse. The original kitchen was designed and installed in 2013 using Roundhouse’s Urbo collection. Defined by its understated aesthetic, practical layout and carefully considered functionality, the space was designed around the realities of everyday life rather than passing trends. As Ottolenghi explains: “Roundhouse designed my kitchen 13 years ago, and it still works brilliantly. The refresh was not about changing the fundamentals, I wanted to build on a design that had already stood the test of time.” Roundhouse Design Roundhouse Design Designing for longevity For interior designers and professionals, the project demonstrates how thoughtful planning, durable materials and adaptable layouts can significantly extend the lifespan of a kitchen without compromising aesthetics or performance. Rather than embarking on a complete redesign, the refurbishment focused on enhancing a space that was already working exceptionally well. The original layout continued to support the way Ottolenghi and his family lived, while the material palette remained as relevant and appealing as when it was first installed. “Everything is at my fingertips. The kitchen works intuitively, which makes cooking a pleasure,” says Ottolenghi. That simple observation highlights one of the most important measures of successful design. Beyond appearance, great kitchens make everyday routines feel effortless and intuitive. Roundhouse Design Introducing personality without redesigning the space While the foundations remained unchanged, the refurbishment introduced carefully considered updates that brought new character to the room. The most significant addition was a hand painted tiled splashback created by artist Cecilie Maurud Barstad of Gilles & Cecilie Studio. Inspired by family memories, favourite foods and shared experiences, the artwork introduced a deeply personal layer to the space. “I wanted a kitchen that felt personal. The new splashback brought character and individuality that made the space my own,” explains Ottolenghi. For designers, the project serves as a reminder that personality does not always require dramatic intervention. Sometimes a single carefully chosen element can transform the atmosphere of a room while preserving everything that already works. Roundhouse Design Roundhouse Design The role of thoughtful upgrades Alongside the new splashback, a series of practical improvements helped bring the kitchen up to date. Storage around the oven wall was reconfigured, appliances were upgraded and the kitchen transitioned from gas to induction cooking. A new suite of Gaggenau appliances and a Quooker tap enhanced performance while maintaining the familiarity of a well-established space. One of the most notable aspects of the refurbishment was the decision to retain the original white lacquered cabinetry. Years after installation, it remained in excellent condition and continued to provide a calm backdrop for daily life. As Ottolenghi notes: “A simple, calm backdrop allows everything else to shine. That’s true in our restaurants, and it’s true in my kitchen. The tiles designed by my dear friend Cecilie Barstad bring some fun and character to the space.” Roundhouse Design The project also highlights the enduring appeal of restrained material palettes. White lacquered cabinetry, walnut interiors, and stainless-steel worktops create a timeless foundation that allows artwork, objects and ingredients to become part of the visual composition. What designers can learn from the project For interior designers, there is an important lesson in the way this kitchen has evolved. Longevity is not simply about durability. It is about creating spaces with enough flexibility to adapt alongside the people who use them. The most successful interiors are rarely those that remain frozen in time. Instead, they mature, evolve, and accumulate character while continuing to support changing lifestyles. By prioritising functionality, simplicity and quality from the outset, the original design created a framework that could be refined rather than replaced. Roundhouse Design Roundhouse Design The project demonstrates that successful kitchen design is not measured by how quickly it is replaced, but by how well it continues to perform over time. By combining enduring design principles with carefully considered updates, Ottolenghi’s kitchen continues to support the changing needs of its owner while retaining the qualities that made it successful from the outset. In a profession often driven by the pursuit of the new, it is a refreshing reminder that thoughtful design, quality craftsmanship and a deep understanding of how people live can create spaces that remain relevant for decades. Start your own design journey Yotam Ottolenghi’s kitchen demonstrates the value of designing spaces that can evolve over time. If you are planning your own project, book a design consultation or visit a Roundhouse showroom to discover how thoughtful design, quality craftsmanship and carefully considered materials can shape the way you live for years to come. About Roundhouse Design Ltd Founded by architects, Roundhouse is a multi-award-winning British company, creating beautiful bespoke kitchens and furniture. Their stunning kitchen designs feature a signature understated aesthetic, influenced by contemporary and traditional design, using innovative materials, texture and colour. Each project is made to measure from a wide range of stunning finishes. Expertly crafted by skilled designers and makers in a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Malvern, Worcestershire. Visit any of seven Roundhouse Design kitchen showrooms; Wigmore St, Clapham, Fulham, Richmond, Cambridge, Guildford & Cheltenham. Visit Profile If you’d like to feature your news or stories on SBID.org, get in touch to find out more. If you’d like to become SBID Accredited, click here for more information.