Born in England and raised between Hong Kong and London, Jamee Kong has been a high-flying designer in the making since she was a child. As a teenager, she was inspired by great architecture, art galleries and museums, leading her to later pursue formal training in interiors and spatial design. After absorbing life experiences through international travel, Jamee undertook a traineeship with a leading Italian kitchen company (name??) — an obvious influence in her now sought-after work.
In 2008, Jamee was approached by DesignSpaceLondon, where she is now Head of Design. This year, Jamee was awarded Kitchen Designer of the Year at the prestigious Homes and Gardens Designer Awards, an experience she describes as the highlight of her career thus far. Here, Ms Kong takes some time out to answer Kate Seamark’s questions.

What is the best thing about designing a kitchen?
The challenge! Every home is different. Each client has different cooking styles, habits and requirements. As a designer it’s important to communicate well with your client, asking the right questions and listening to the client’s needs. A lecturer once said, “Designers are problem solvers.” I aim to design timeless schemes — kitchens that my clients would love and be proud to own.

What advice would you give to a homeowner embarking on their first major interior design project?
Always keep to the budget and don’t be afraid to negotiate prices. Source interesting products and materials but maintain a consistent theme throughout the property.

What advice would you give anyone on a budget?
Attention to detail is especially important. Ensure that all the essential components are included in the scheme before looking to include any “wish list” items. Sufficient storage space and work surface are vital. Try to avoid going for flat-packed kitchen cabinetry if possible as it may not stand the test of time.

What colours work particularly well in kitchens?
Light tones work well — a neutral foundation enables homeowners to change the scheme according to their lifestyle or even to the season, allowing the kitchen to grow with them. Personality and colour are best introduced by the use of plants or colourful accessories.

Tell us about your own kitchen…
I am actually in the process of designing a new kitchen for my home. The objective is to completely change the current layout to achieve a more contemporary and user-friendly scheme. Siemens appliances will complement Schiffini furniture, and a bespoke extractor is essential to eliminate the smoke and steam produced by my love of Chinese cooking. A stainless-steel breakfast bar will provide balance in the space.

Do you have a favourite kitchen appliance?
The steam combination oven — it keeps the moisture and tenderness in meat and vegetables while providing crispness on the outside. Yum!

What kitchen trends do you see evolving in the near future?
Some of the latest trends and technologies can be applied to design in order to create a kitchen that is both beautiful and environmentally friendly. Most leading appliance manufacturers offer A+ energy-efficiency products, saving water and electricity. Some of the latest trends, including the use of thinner worktops, could also help to preserve resources. In terms of materials, Corian is a favourite of mine because of the exceptional design possibility it offers. I favour glass for splashbacks as it bounces light around the room. It can also reflect the view of the garden, creating a lively environment.

Top image: Award-winning kitchen designer, Jamee Kong.
2nd image: Jamee uses bold colour to create a contemporary look: Schiffini’s One kitchen collection in blue high-gloss lacquer with stainless-steel worktop and linen-coloured glass splashback.
3rd image: This kitchen, known as Black and Blue, features Schiffini’s Cinqueterre kitchen collection, which Jamee is using in her own home. The Cinqueterre collection was designed by Vico Magistretti and its ridged door profile is Schiffini’s signature collection.
4th image: Light, bright and lovely, Jamee has combined white gloss cabinetry with a grey work surface and black glass splashback.

 

This article is published by the Kitchen & Bathroom Designer eMag, a joint venture of Kitchens & Bathrooms Quarterly and the KBDi (Kitchens & Bathrooms Designer Institute).

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