Ottolenghi Test Kitchen

London | 2021

Ottolenghi OTK – Test Kitchen

A flexible space for changing use

The new OTK test kitchen facility was designed to be flexible for changing use. The space features a test kitchen with playful abstract patterns, a studio space with repurposed shelving and a movable material library, and an event space with a sliding door to close off the studio when needed. 

Ottolenghi stainless steel kitchen island with bar stools.
Ottolenghi test kitchen with a bright breakfast bar section.
Ottolenghi test kitchen with a study area with skylight.
Ottolenghi test kitchen with breakfast bar and bar stools.
Ottolenghi test kitchen interiors in stainless steel.
Bespoke plywood desk for Ottolenghi, OTK, by Studiomama.
Ottolenghi test kitchen cupboard detail. Design Studiomama.
Ottolenghi plywood shelving with yellow edging by Studiomama.
Plywood shelving with crookery in Ottolenghi test kitchen.
Ottolenghi test kitchen study area with desk and bookshelves.
Ottolenghi test kitchen with stainless steel cooking island.
Stainless steel kitchen with bar stools, Ottolenghi, OTK.
Ottolenghi test kitchen with small sink, towels and mirror.
Work space area in Ottolenghi test kitchen by Studiomama.
Materials library and study area in Ottolenghi test kitchen.
sliding-door-detail-from-ottolenghi-test-kitchen.jpg
Design sketch of Ottolenghi test kitchen by Studiomama.

The OTK design process

In 2020, Ottolenghi approached us with a brief to create a sustainable and flexible test kitchen. In August 2021, OTK moved into a larger facility to accommodate its growing needs. We designed the space to cater to three functions: the test kitchen, the library and studio section, and an event space, reusing all desk/shelving and materials used in OTK finished in 2020.

The rectangular space was strategically utilized, with the kitchen and studio positioned near windows for ample daylight. The flooring featured a combination of pink, grey, and yellow vinyl, providing anti-slip surfaces for the kitchen. Our goal was to create a warm and inviting atmosphere, balancing the functionality of a commercial kitchen with the aesthetics of a domestic one. The test kitchen featured circular geometry patterns and colourful recycled terrazzo-looking materials, seamlessly integrating stainless steel elements. Multiple islands and backlit shelves were added to expand the kitchen and provide easy access to ingredients.

A storage/work counter along the row of windows connected the test kitchen and studio, serving as a bridge between the two zones. In the studio, ply and Valchromat shelving were used, with orange and terracotta accents to complement the floor. Repurposed tables and a movable material library were integrated into the space. For events, a sliding door concealed in the shelving unit to seal off the studio, with a circular cut-out and chopping board-inspired shapes adding visual interest. Our design aimed to create a vibrant and versatile space that inspires creativity and experimentation.

CLIENT: Ottolenghi, OTK
DESIGN: Studiomama
PHOTOGRAPHY: Billy Bolton

Nina and Jack managed to transform our test kitchen from a nondescript industrial unit under a grubby railway arch line into a sunny, happy space, where the functionality is perfectly adjusted to our needs: recipe testing, food photography and office work. Simply being in the room is now a joy. Top professionalism! – Yotam Ottolenghi

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