Take a look inside a minimalist East London kitchen

Tell us about yourself

We’re Paul Firmin and Niko Dafkos, co-founders of Earl of East, a business that started as a side-hustle 10 years ago, and has evolved into a lifestyle brand with three stores in London and our own line of home fragrance and bathing products that are stocked worldwide. We live in Leyton, east London, in a home that’s become a real sanctuary for us. It’s a new-build that we’ve filled with personal touches and one-off pieces from our travels, making it feel warm and inviting. It’s just us and our dog, Piper, but we love to host when we can.

Tell us about your kitchen

Our kitchen is open-plan and the heart of our home. It’s relatively modest in size with sleek, minimalist cabinetry and an island that’s perfect for both cooking and hanging out. There’s plenty of natural light from the glazed doors that lead onto the garden, and in the warmer months this outside area really is an extension of our home. We wanted a space that felt welcoming, functional and true to our lifestyle.

What inspired your kitchen design?

We were inspired by interiors we’ve seen in LA and Tokyo – clean, modern lines but softened with natural textures and earthy hues. We made sure the kitchen had everything we needed to cook together comfortably but also that it flowed with the rest of the home. The recent addition of quarry red floor tiles has really tied the kitchen to the hall and living room, creating a sense of continuity and warmth throughout. The connection to the garden makes the kitchen feel open and tranquil. There’s a natural flow from indoors to outdoors, and the greenery softens the space.

We also intentionally kept the design minimal to avoid too much visual noise – clean lines, neutral tones and functional yet beautiful storage help keep things calm. Also, the scents we love from our own collection, like Greenhouse and Jardin de la Lune, add to that relaxing vibe.

What is your favourite time in the kitchen?

We both love to cook but Niko is the expert. Being Greek, cooking is a huge part of his heritage, and many of our favourite recipes have been passed down from his grandma. It’s not just about the food though, it’s the atmosphere, too. We put on music, pour a glass of wine, light a candle and chat while we cook. The kitchen is where everything happens – it’s where we unwind, socialise and where ideas for Earl of East are often sparked.

What are your tablescaping tips?

Keep it natural and unfussy. We love mixing textures, like linen napkins with ceramic plates, and using candles to create the right atmosphere.

Do you have any clever storage hacks?

Use a mixture of baskets, jars and containers to store dry goods, so everything is visible and easy to grab. Clear glass jars let you see exactly what you have and keep the shelves looking neat.

What healthy meal do you cook when you want to feed your body and soul?

We love making lentils with crispy garlic and salted yogurt – hearty, healthy and packed with flavour.

Get the look...

Inspired by Paul and Niko's kitchen? Here’s how to get a similar look in your own kitchen…

Earl of East Smoke & Musk candle

• Available from Earl of East (£50)

This cosy candle is perfect for cold winter nights and will fill your home with the scent of fragrant fir, wood smoke and musky patchouli.

Available from:
Earl of East (£50)

HAY Barro sculptural terracotta candle holder

• Available from Selfridges (£35)

Add some height to your tablescape with these sculptural tall candle holders, available in glossy natural red or pale blue.

Available from:
Selfridges (£35)

Moccamaster KBG Select coffee machine

• Available from Currys (£262), AO (£229), Amazon (£247.50)

Start your morning with a fresh filter coffee, brewed in style in this retro Moccamaster machine. Go for minimalist brushed steel or add a pop of colour – available on Amazon in over 20 finishes, including neon orange, pastel yellow or turquoise.

Available from:
Currys (£262)
AO (£229)
Amazon (£247.50)

Sabre Paris Bistro red cutlery set

• Available from Amazon (£37 for 4 piece set), Selfridges (£45 for 4 piece set), Sabre (£37 for 4 piece set)

This timeless cutlery set is an easy way to add colour to your dining table. The design is inspired by restaurants and cafés and is available in a range of sets so you can get the size to suit your home. We love the chic red, but there are plenty of colours to choose from in either a 'shiny' or vintage finish.

Available from:
Amazon (£37 for 4 piece set)
Selfridges (£45 for 4 piece set)
Sabre (£37 for 4 piece set)

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