The Georgian Hall Kitchen

Five years after purchasing an old Georgian Hall in Hertfordshire, owners Simon and Samantha decided to undertake a renovation to the property’s side wing to create a fabulous space for a new kitchen. Having lived in the property with their young family for five years, Simon and Samantha knew what they needed from their new space.

The previous kitchen was originally situated in a much smaller room and the tiny space didn't really reflect the generous proportions of the other rooms in the period property. It was cramped and dated, with just an oiled-fired AGA for cooking on, and no space for a more conventional backup oven or hob. The family also yearned for an island where Hugo and Jemima could sit and be part of the conversation when they were all cooking. The couple decided the best solution would be to relocate the kitchen into a much more spacious room, which would allow them to have a lot more space for family time and socialising.

Modern Shaker cabinetry was carefully selected as the foundation for the design scheme.

The property is an old Georgian Hall – and although Simon and Samantha love contemporary design – great care was needed to make sure the design of the new kitchen didn’t conflict with the age of the period property.

The use of sustainable timber and eco-friendly materials was important to the family which was one of the reasons they chose to work with the team at Naked Kitchens. Any new cabinetry is made in their Norfolk workshop – a converted RAF aircraft hanger – using timber that’s environmentally-friendly and sustainably sourced.

The cabinetry was painted in a palette of three complementary greens: Misted Fen, Marsh Green and Sandringham Pine, using an environmentally friendly, water-based PU paint, which provides a highly durable finish, and is perfect for young families. The Shaker units were crowned with a combination of Quartz and Oak work surfaces which provide a contrast of cool durability and textural warmth. The addition of simple, yet elegant Armac Martin chrome handles completes the look.

The cabinetry colours were paired with a Taupe Green for the walls to create a calming, tranquil atmosphere that evokes a sense of nature and the outdoors. This is only enhanced further by the introduction of new Oak flooring and the simple, utilitarian yet beautifully crafted Oak furniture by Ercol.

The sink selected was the distinctive Bowland 800 by Shaws of Darwen.

The classic design with its generous proportions and iconic fluted apron front is a real focal point of the kitchen. The single bowl sink was chosen because both Simon and Samantha love to cook and wanted to be able to soak large baking trays. The sink has been paired with the Armstrong Bridge Mixer tap by Perrin & Rowe; it has an industrial feel that has been elevated to the level of luxury by its quality craftsmanship.

The installation of the Pooky pendant lights above the island, and the hand painted white Oak panelling and practical Shaker pegs (that acts as a splashback for the sink) evoke memories of New England.

The new elongated kitchen space presented the opportunity to install a wonderful long run of cabinetry.

The eye-level Gaggenau ovens and the integrated coffee machine are close enough to be practical, but out of the busy cooking area. A large flatscreen TV is discreetly hidden away within a purpose built cabinet, which is close to the dining table and in a prime position to provide a great view from the island while cooking on the Bora Hob. The addition of high-level glazed cabinets above the work surfaces allows Simon and Samantha to display a selection of pieces from their extensive pottery collection.

The new design and layout has made a huge difference to the level of family interactions, because the increased space means that they can all comfortably congregate in the kitchen. Both children love sitting  at the island, which has an area with a lower elevation and is proving to be a popular space for doing homework.

The selection of high-quality brands that feature in the kitchen renovation underscores a commitment to durability and timeless elegance, ensuring that the space remains both beautiful and functional for many years to come.