Rimadesio
project
Bulthaup
Ultra-Modern Kitchen at Sandbanks Waterfront Home
Set within a striking waterfront property in Sandbanks, this kitchen was designed as the centrepiece of an expansive open-plan living space.
Set within a striking waterfront property in Sandbanks, this kitchen was designed as the centrepiece of an expansive open-plan living space.
the brief
The brief called for a kitchen of exceptional quality, one that could effortlessly support both large-scale entertaining and everyday living, while delivering a strong visual impact.
The space needed to feel both impressive and inviting. As the heart of the home, it was essential that the kitchen encouraged social interaction, while maintaining the performance and practicality required for hosting at scale.
Collection
bulthaup
Property
Modern Luxury
Location
Sandbanks, Poole
Design Approach
Thoughtfully aligned to flow seamlessly
Understanding how the clients lived and entertained was central to the design. The solution was a two-part layout: a ‘presentation’ kitchen within the main living space, and a separate ‘prep’ kitchen positioned discreetly behind.
This division allows the visible kitchen to remain calm, refined, and social, while the more functional demands of catering can take place out of sight.
Design Approach
Thoughtfully aligned to flow seamlessly
A Rimadesio sliding pocket door connects the two spaces, allowing them to operate seamlessly as one when needed.
Within the main kitchen, the design is intentionally layered. Each element—from the back wall to the island—works together to create depth, contrast, and visual rhythm, without overwhelming the space.
The Result
The completed kitchen delivers both impact and ease. It functions effortlessly during large gatherings, while remaining a welcoming and sociable space for everyday use.
The island naturally draws people in, becoming a place to gather, cook, and connect. Materials, light, and layout combine to create a kitchen that feels both architectural and inviting, perfectly suited to its coastal setting.
Layout & Zoning
The kitchen is divided into two distinct but connected zones: a front-facing presentation kitchen and a fully equipped prep kitchen beyond.
The main space is organised around a large central island, designed for cooking, dining, and social interaction. Behind it, the prep kitchen provides additional capacity for catering, ensuring the primary space remains uncluttered and composed.
A Rimadesio sliding glass door allows the two areas to be separated or opened up as required, maintaining flexibility without interrupting the flow of the space.
Island & Focal Elements
The island forms the centrepiece of the kitchen, featuring a bespoke cantilevered breakfast bar designed and engineered in-house.
Layered detailing—including stainless steel plinths and drawer rail inserts- adds depth and refinement to the anthracite cabinetry. The ‘Tropical Storm’ granite worktop introduces movement and texture, acting as a natural focal point within the room.
Materials
Material selection plays a key role in defining the space. Sand beige aluminium wall panels reflect warm, golden tones, enhancing the natural light within the room.
Flint cabinetry provides a subtle contrast, allowing key elements to stand out while maintaining an overall sense of restraint. Walnut detailing within the drinks station and breakfast bar introduces warmth and continuity across the scheme.
Appliances & Functionality
The island features a BORA X Pure cooktop, keeping the cooking area open and sociable without the need for overhead extraction.
Gaggenau appliances are seamlessly integrated throughout the main kitchen, while the prep kitchen is centred around a Wolf range cooker, providing additional capacity for more demanding use.
A dedicated drinks station, concealed behind pocket doors, adds a further layer of functionality without disrupting the clean aesthetic.
Lighting & Atmosphere
Natural light is amplified through reflective surfaces, particularly the aluminium wall panels, which introduce a soft, golden glow throughout the space.
The layered arrangement of materials and finishes enhances depth and atmosphere, ensuring the kitchen feels both dynamic and balanced at different times of day.
Indoor–Outdoor Connection
Positioned within an open-plan waterfront setting, the kitchen maintains a strong visual relationship with the surrounding landscape.
Views extend through the space, while the layout encourages movement between the kitchen, living area, and exterior, supporting a relaxed, coastal way of living.
Entertaining & Lifestyle
The dual-kitchen concept allows the space to adapt effortlessly to different uses. Large gatherings can be catered for behind the scenes, while the main kitchen remains a polished and welcoming environment for guests.
At the same time, the layout supports everyday life, creating a space that feels equally comfortable, functional, and engaging.
