Josh Eggleton is a renowned chef and restaurateur known for his Michelin-starred pub, The Pony, near Bristol and his appearances on Great British Menu. He’s also a panellist at our upcoming Future of Food talk, and we can’t wait to host him at our Fulham showroom on May 13th. Ahead of the event, we invited chef Josh to reveal his secrets for a truly flexible domestic kitchen – one that accommodates daily routines while scaling up seamlessly for large gatherings. From layout and work zones to appliance choices and aesthetic balance, here’s how Josh would craft the ultimate multi-functional chef’s kitchen design at home.

Making the kitchen the focal point 

Josh’s first principle is bold but transformative: don’t settle for squeezing any modern kitchen into an awkward corner. 

“If you’re designing from scratch, you are very lucky, but the main approach is to make the kitchen the focal point of the house. You’re dictated by the shape of the house, so don’t be afraid of moving the kitchen entirely and opening it up,” he explains. 

By placing the kitchen front and centre, you will ensure it remains the hub of daily life and the star attraction when entertaining. Open sightlines let the chef circulate between cooking, serving, and socialising without risking of over-seared steaks!

Incorporating multiple workspaces 

A single countertop can become a bottleneck when juggling guests and daily chores. For an efficient chef’s kitchen layout, Josh recommends separating prep and cleaning zones – and even moving laundry out of the main kitchen. 

“It depends really on what you want to do and how many people are in your family, but one thing is for sure, if you want the kitchen to be a focal point around food, get the washing machine out of the kitchen,” he advises. 

By adding an extra prep island or a dedicated wash-station, you can multiply simultaneous workflows. Family members or caterers can chop, rinse, and organise ingredients, leaving you to focus on plating the final courses.

The case for a ‘back kitchen’ 

Concealing the messiest tasks appeals to many homeowners, but space is always at a premium. Josh shares a cautionary note: 

“If you’ve got the luxury of space, then great, but the more space you create the more you fill with stuff. Don’t forget the basic functionality of the kitchen. Even in commercial spaces, I prefer a small kitchen,” he says. 

Rather than a sprawling scullery, consider a compact but highly organised back kitchen. A well-planned “mess zone” hidden behind sliding doors or integrated cabinetry can keep your main kitchen pristine without sacrificing efficiency.

Embracing modular appliances 

Scalability – from mid-week suppers to weekend dinner parties – depends on the right tools. Josh highlights versatility over sheer quantity when choosing appliances: 

“If you want flexibility, an amazing, combi oven with steam, and a good induction hob is really all you need,” he explains. 

A combi oven’s multi-function capabilities (steaming, roasting, baking) paired with a reliable induction hob cover most cooking scenarios. This streamlined setup frees up space for prep zones or additional storage, avoiding a clutter of single-purpose gadgets. If you regularly cook for crowds, bump up the capacity with a second combi or multifunction oven.

Prioritising function over form 

It can be tempting to chase sleek cabinetry or dramatic finishes, but Josh warns against letting aesthetics dictate layout: 

“Let aesthetics come second to the functionality of the kitchen,” he confirms. “You can make something look great and functional but never let functionality come second.” 

Start with a workflow-driven blueprint – sinks, cooking appliances, and prep areas arranged for minimal movement – and then layer in your favourite materials, colours, and decorative accessories.

Clever storage solutions 

When space is tight, every millimetre counts. Josh recommends classic pantry designs and spice storage hacks: 

“I would advocate going a bit more traditional and get a walk-in pantry with open shelves so you can see everything in a quick glance,” he says. “In the main kitchen, include a seasoning cupboard/drawer with your 10 most used spices etc and make it easily accessible to the cooking area.” 

Open shelving in a dedicated pantry keeps staples in sight and within easy reach, while a spice drawer adjacent to the hob accelerates seasoning during hectic dinner parties.

Balancing capacity with cosiness 

A high-capacity kitchen can feel impersonal, but Josh shows how design choices restore warmth: 

“It’s all in the design; in the lighting adjustability and the surface choices,” he explains. “I love a modern kitchen peppered with some family heirlooms and focus points where the food is plated and where the food is consumed. Natural light is also important, add extra skylights or glass doors if you can.” 

Dimmable fixtures, tactile surfaces, such as wood and stone, and cherished decor items will create an inviting ambiance. Skylights or large windows will bathe the room in daylight, softening the more functional aspects of Josh’s ideal kitchen.

By following Josh Eggleton’s pro tips – making the kitchen the home’s focal hub, integrating versatile work zones, choosing modular appliances, and balancing functionality with personal style – you’ll enjoy a space that flows effortlessly from weekday breakfasts to lavish dinner parties. With thoughtful layout, clever storage, and attention to ambiance, your own chef’s kitchen will be as flexible as it is beautiful. Why not get in the mood for entertaining with his latest recipe reveal?

Find out more about how to create a truly flexible multi-tasking kitchen when you partner with Roundhouse.