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Inspiration

A Hatfield Heath Kitchen

Space is something we all want more of at times. So when the retired owners of a compact new-build property in the village of Hatfield Heath in Essex decided it was time to expand the potential of their kitchen, they didn’t hesitate. Inspired by all the great times spent at their second property – a haven of peace and calm on the Spanish coast – they set about transforming the kitchen to suit their needs.

The pair had been searching for the right kitchen company to manage the redesign for a while; a team that specialised in bespoke cabinetry, and could design a classic kitchen that would allow them to socialise more and host family events. Having now entered retirement, they wanted to create somewhere they could enjoy this time surrounded by loved ones. They wanted a bright and open feel, where they could relax all year round.

The word they use to describe their home is ‘traditional’, but they also wanted to create a peaceful and calming space that oozed a zen appeal. Having identified The Handmade Kitchen Company as the right team to realise their vision, they outlined exactly what they wanted their new kitchen to do.

They wanted to make the kitchen more spacious and user friendly, so the wall dividing the kitchen and dining room was removed. This created a more open plan space to work with.

The classic Butler 800 single bowl sink was chosen for its size and practicality.

The couple enjoy nothing more than having their family over for a Sunday roast so a large sink was key for entertaining. The sink – with its iconic blue diamond – looks perfect paired with the classic Shaker style cabinetry, and creates a timeless feel to the new kitchen.  A classic and contemporary chrome tap and rinse from Perrin & Rowe's Langbourn collection  sits perfectly alongside the glazed fireclay sink, which is positioned under a window for more light. 

Shaker style cabinetry was chosen for its timeless appeal.

The layout of the new kitchen consists of a double galley with bespoke furniture at either end in the eternally popular In-Frame Shaker style. The cabinets are hand-painted in the period tones of Wevet and Stiffkey Blue both by Farrow & Ball. The two-tone colour cabinets are embellished with handles and knobs from Alexander & Wilks. The worktops are Heartly Grey Granite which was fabricated and installed by Sharpstone Granite.

The layout of the kitchen was carefully considered.

The kitchen is designed to have designated zones for cooking and washing-up/cleaning, which are also close to the island. This makes navigating the kitchen easier as you don’t need to travel far to put pans and dishes in the sink. The sink area was also placed furthest away in the corner so any mess during parties wasn’t central or located close to the social area of the room.

It was important to incorporate as much storage as possible.

This included handmade bespoke dressers at the end of the room, a bi-fold breakfast larder with quartz worktop inside for extra work surface and storage needs, full height pull out larders, and a bench seat.

The final space is light, bright and breezy with a traditional feel. It feels far from a Spanish-inspired kitchen. However, there is a fresh and calming vibe that wouldn’t feel out of place in a New England beach house on the east coast of America.