Every so often, you discover a kitchen on social media that captures your attention immediately.

This delightful London kitchen, designed by Rita Konig, radiates charm and personality. When I stumbled upon it, I couldn't resist learning more.

Created in collaboration with skilled kitchen makers, this vibrant space is distinguished by its eclectic prints and its inviting atmosphere. I spoke with design director Merlin Wright to uncover the inspiration and process behind this wonderfully layered design.

Where Marble Meets Floral in a Stylish Kitchen

a london kitchen designed with floral wallpaper with dark cabinetry and warm wood floor with a mix of marble and wooden countertops

It's hard to believe that this serene kitchen faced significant design challenges during its transformation.

According to Merlin, 'The entire layout was reimagined, as Rita's earlier flat extended across the upper floor, creating a two-story family residence. The open-plan kitchen was once Rita's bedroom. By removing walls and reconstructing the space, the new kitchen now enjoys light from both a large bay window and a charming Gothic window, allowing sunlight to fill the room.'

Merlin described a unique storage solution: 'A recessed wall cupboard opposite the Gothic window and at the end of the sink area replaced a previous doorway. We added glazed doors and a hand-painted interior, creating a lovely spot for glassware that reflects the sunlight beautifully.'

bright and open kitchen with floral wallpaper and a dark painted kitchen with purple veined marble counters and backsplash

But the innovative storage solutions didn't stop there.

'Adjacent to the doorway, a tall bank of floor-to-ceiling cupboards accommodates most storage needs, including a larder and the fridge. By consolidating tall items onto one wall, we kept the sink and cooking areas at a lower level,' Merlin explains.

'The sink is cleverly concealed behind a cupboard front, and an extra-wide integrated oven is tucked away within the island cupboards, completely out of sight. A downdraft extractor paired with a flush hob keeps the eye-level area clear of appliances.'

This design choice maximizes hidden storage while allowing for stylistic decisions that enhance the kitchen's aesthetics.

floral wallpapered kitchen with a dark viola marble countertop and backsplash that meets the wallpaper halfway up the wall

'The focus is drawn to the stunning expanse of Calacatta Viola marble countertops and backsplash, topped with a full-width marble shelf ideal for displaying vases and pottery,' says Merlin. 'The room is adorned with 'Petite Indienne' wallpaper from Antoinette Poisson, sourced from France.'

Beyond its clever use of space, the standout feature is the striking combination of marble with delicate floral wallpaper. Surprisingly, this kitchen wallpaper idea works beautifully together.

'Rita drew inspiration from French cafés and châteaux for this project,' Merlin shares. 'The curved corners of the kitchen island mimic a French café counter, adding a soft touch upon entering. An overhang creates a cozy nook for breakfast at the oak-topped island.'

The color palette, a harmonious blend of contrasting light and dark tones, was developed in partnership with Plain English and Rita Konig, featuring 12 classic hues including 'Burnt Toast' for cabinetry and 'Flummery', a muted neutral for the rest of the room. Eye-catching bottle green pendants add a vibrant touch to the overall design.

Explore the Style

Astier de Villatte + John Derian Dozen Roses Printed Ceramic Vase

This charming ceramic vase, crafted in Paris, serves as a stunning floral holder or an eye-catching utensil container.

House of Hackney Artemis Wallpaper

This enchanting floral print, created by the renowned British brand House of Hackney, pays tribute to William Morris and Vogue's Diana Vreeland.

Artesa Oversized Glass Pendant Light

With its vintage artisanal flair, this pendant light is designed to elegantly hang over a kitchen island or table, showcasing intricate details like brass fittings and seeded glass.

Beckham Single Light Stainless Steel Dimmable Swing Arm Sconce

A swing arm wall sconce, much like those in Rita's kitchen, adds functional lighting to countertops, perfect for illuminating glassware on floating shelves.

Soho Home Palazzo Marble Ice Bucket

Infuse a touch of marble into your decor with this hand-carved Italian marble ice bucket, also serving as a chic vase or kitchen vessel.

Woven Bowl Wavy Rim with Pedestal Base

Rita's blend of rustic rattan with sleek marble is inspiring. Display this wavy wicker bowl on your counter, filled with colorful fruits or vegetables for a delightful natural touch.