Caesarstone’s 4011 Cloudburst Concrete surface enhances a Scandinavian-inspired kitchen extension by Studio Merlin.
London-based design firm, Studio Merlin, has reimagined a Victorian home in Stoke Newington, North London, with an extension that blends function, playfulness, and Scandinavian-inspired design. The project, known as Hoj House - named after the Danish word for ‘high’ - transforms the lower ground floor, extending the living space into the garden. At the heart of this transformation is the open-plan kitchen, where Caesarstone’s 4011 Cloudburst Concrete surface plays a pivotal role in defining the aesthetics and enhancing the sense of flow.
For a young couple and their dog, the brief was to create a kitchen that seamlessly connects indoors and out, offering a flexible space for cooking, entertaining, and everyday living. Studio Merlin envisioned a layout that feels open and adaptable, particularly in the summer when family and friends gather. The extension, with its broad, low-lying form, contrasts the original honey-toned London stock brick, using neutral-hued concrete blocks to establish a contemporary yet understated backdrop. This pared-back material palette allows natural elements to take centre stage, reinforcing the home’s connection to the outdoors.
Inside, the kitchen reflects a Scandinavian influence, with warm timber finishes adding softness and texture. Pink and yellow-toned Douglas fir features throughout, with its natural finish enhancing the space’s light and airy quality. A pivoting glass door leads to a concrete patio with built-in planters, stepping up to a lawn that extends the living area further. The result is a space that encourages movement between inside and out, echoing the couple’s desire for a home that feels as comfortable hosting intimate dinners as it does relaxed summer gatherings.
Central to the kitchen design is Cloudburst Concrete by Caesarstone - a surface that embodies both strength and subtlety. Its soft, misty white base is accentuated by delicate, cloud-like veining, creating a depth and movement that mirror the ever-changing textures of natural stone. The tactile, concrete-inspired finish introduces an organic quality, enhancing the kitchen’s connection to the outdoors.
Cloudburst Concrete is used across both the island and the main cabinetry run, unifying the space. On the cabinetry run, the surface extends upwards into a matching splashback and floating shelf, a design detail that brings both practicality and visual continuity. This seamless application creates a clean, sculptural effect, allowing the surface’s soft patina and honed texture to take centre stage. The elevated shelf provides space for curated objects and everyday essentials while maintaining the kitchen’s uncluttered look.
The decision to use Cloudburst Concrete was driven by both aesthetic and practical considerations. Josh Piddock, Founder of Studio Merlin, explains: “The clients sought a robust, practical yet refined surface, seamlessly integrating into the kitchen without overpowering the space. Cloudburst Concrete was chosen to harmonise with the polished concrete floor of the extension, reinforcing the connection between indoors and out. Its soft, cloud-like patina brings a natural, organic quality to the kitchen, subtly shifting in tone under different light conditions, much like raw stone.”
Piddock adds: “We regularly specify Caesarstone for our projects because of its durability, versatility and availability. The wide range of colours and finishes allows us to tailor each design to the client’s vision, while the reliability of the material ensures longevity.”
He continues: “Caesarstone is stocked broadly amongst fabricators across London. This accessibility means main contractors can source it easily and at competitive prices, streamlining the installation process and ensuring a smooth project delivery.” With a strong reputation for excellent quality and customer service, Caesarstone supports fabricators, designers and homeowners every step of the way – from material selection to final installation. This dedication ensures a seamless, stress-free experience, making it easier to bring any vision to life.
Are you planning to embark on a kitchen renovation? Explore our catalogue to discover a wide range of surfaces or book a visit to one of our three studios – in London, Manchester and Dublin – to view our surfaces as full slabs.
Photography by Richard Chivers
