Because the project was being managed and dealt with during a global pandemic, a time when face-to-face meetings were prohibited and most suppliers had very long lead times, delays were inevitable. Fortunately, these delays meant that the Handmade Kitchen Co. had more time to refine the design and achieve the perfect balance between classic Shaker style and modern contemporary living. The result is a unique family kitchen that fits perfectly in the large space that was to be utilised.
Region | UK and Ireland
The SW18 Kitchen
LocationLondon, UKDesignHandmade Kitchen Company
When the Handmade Kitchen Company received the commission to build a truly bespoke Shaker-style kitchen during the height of the pandemic, they knew it was going to be a real challenge. The commission was on a supply-only basis, which meant a great amount of liaising with the client and builder to get the design, measurements and space just right.
When entering this kitchen you can’t help but be impressed by the amount of natural light that is achieved by the large triple-panel skylight and ceiling-high windows. The advantage of having so much natural light in this property is that it allows you to appreciate the beautiful craftsmanship of the handmade, walnut veneer, cabinetry. The dark tones of the walnut match perfectly with Farrow & Ball’s ‘Studio Green’, creating a deep sense of period luxury.
To the left of the range on the shorter run of the L-shaped cabinetry is a perfectly positioned Shaws Inset 800 sink, which is integrated beneath the bold marble work surface.
It is positioned against a wall with a matching full-height marble splashback that helps bring the whole space together. The inset sink feels contemporary, clean and streamlined, and doesn’t break up the dark tones of the cabinetry and wood. A Perrin & Rowe Phoenician 3-in-1 Instant Hot Water Tap with Rinse and matching traditional deck-mounted soap dispenser in Aged Brass sits proudly on the sink run. The aged brass finish looks fabulous with the natural patterning of the marble and works wonderfully with the deep period green tone of the kitchen. This classic piece of handmade brassware flows with the kitchen and pairs well with the brass handles.
“The sink is practical for washing up large pans and we went with Shaws as it is our preferred supplier for sinks – because the quality is exceptional. We love Shaws and so do our clients.”
The homeowner wanted an integrated fridge and freezer that blended seamlessly with the bespoke green cabinetry in the kitchen.
So they cleverly concealed a large Fisher & Paykel fridge and a large freezer drawer behind French Door cabinets that complement the rest of the kitchen. The expansive marble-topped island is the real heart of this kitchen, and not only creates a large area for prepping food but also provides lots of easy-to-access storage solutions to help keep the workspace clutter-free. The full-height pantry, a luxury in any kitchen, features pocket-folding doors which tuck away neatly, allowing the shelves to remain exposed if required. The open marble shelves also add to the storage space, or they can be used to display decorative touches.
The whole kitchen is a timeless blend of Shaker sensibility and elegant Victorian practicality. Everything about it says luxury, but it isn’t excessive or extravagant. It is a highly tasteful recreation of the charming classic family kitchens of years gone by.
