The Arts and Crafts Kitchen
Picture a grand country house nestled in the charming village of Chislehurst, a picturesque setting with independent shops, cozy cafes, tree-lined streets, and meandering country roads. Just a stone’s throw away from the bustling heart of London, it’s the perfect location to call home—a home designed for the long term.
This splendid Arts and Crafts house, a testament to architectural craftsmanship, dates back to 1887. With its high ceilings, generously proportioned rooms bathed in natural light, and original wood paneling, it exudes a timeless allure. The owners chose a new space for the kitchen, and the transformation was nothing short of extraordinary.
Stepping into this revamped kitchen feels like entering a hip restaurant or a classic dining hall. Large double doors open to reveal leather club chairs basking in the sun. A slender refectory table, surrounded by an assortment of vintage chairs and benches, takes center stage. Against the back wall, a row of four pantry cupboards reigns, their deep interiors discreetly housing a full-height fridge, freezer, and two pantries. The design is subtle yet perfectly proportioned.
The room’s aesthetics revolve around a meticulously restored parquet floor. The warm wood tones of the floor, table, and island offer a tactile and inviting ambiance. Durable, light-colored Silestone worktops contrast beautifully with the wood, introducing an industrial touch that complements the vintage pendant lights suspended from chains, their cords stretching nearly five meters long. The lofty ceilings, coupled with an original minstrels’ gallery at one end, create a magnificent backdrop for this extraordinary kitchen.
A stylish fusion of Pantry Blue base cabinets, glazed London wall cupboards, and a Shaker-style island proved to be an instant sensation.
The family residing here curated a delightful blend of old and new accessories to breathe life into this space. A large plasma TV adorns the wall, accompanied by the perpetual sound of Ibiza chill-out tunes, making it a place you won’t want to leave.
We admire this room for its cohesive design and the meticulous attention given to ensure it harmonizes seamlessly with the grandeur of the house. What a splendid place to return to at the end of the day!
