When it comes to designing interior spaces in the home, it goes without saying that trends come and go – anyone with an olive or apricot bathroom suite will vouch for that. Some trends are relatively simple to update on a regular basis, but there is one space where it is best to avoid the latest fashions or aesthetic: the kitchen.
With the average kitchen costing upwards of £10,000 (according to Ideal Home magazine) – and you can more than triple that price for a good-quality bespoke design – it’s imperative that your investment is going to stand the test of time. While function tends to be the first consideration, the overall look and feel of the space is just as important because it’s often where we spend the majority of our time in the home. So, how can you combine function and form, while considering the long-term cost investment?
A country-style aesthetic is a fantastic solution. For a start, it’s timeless and a look that’s relatively simple to evoke. But there’s a reason the country-style shaker unit has never fallen out of favour – it’s well-made, classic and functional. Units can be refreshed with a simple lick of paint, and the muted tones often synonymous with a country kitchen will look timeless for years to come.
But don’t just take our word for it. Will Lyne, lead designer at luxury brand Christopher Peters Kitchens and Interiors, is here to give us his insight into how a country aesthetic can evoke a feeling of home in the kitchen.
Mix up the finish
Don’t be afraid to play around with mixed tones and materials to bring a feeling of the country to your kitchen. This can be a relatively inexpensive undertaking. If you haven’t got the budget to overhaul the entire space, adding an oak or walnut dish rack to the wall will complement your other kitchen units and maximise on all-important storage space too.
You can pick these up at antique fairs or on online auctions quite easily. Bear in mind they may need some TLC, so be prepared to oil or wax if needed. Just try not to sand the surface or paint over any imperfections – these will only add to the overall character of the piece. If you can’t get your hands on one of these racks, talk with a local carpenter or joiner about creating one for you – this is something we’re often asked to commission by our clients.
Add custom shelving
The overall feeling of a country kitchen stems from how warm and inviting the space feels. If a modern kitchen is ‘less is more’, then a country kitchen is about maximalism and character. You can bring this look to your kitchen by displaying your favourite cookbooks, crockery and family photos. But be mindful of cluttering counter and eating space – the room still needs to be efficient. By adding open shelving, you’ll have a space to show off trinkets, candles and fresh flowers without taking away from the functionality of the room.
Softening tones
If you are able to allocate budget to installing a new kitchen from the ground up, then I would advise opting for as muted a tone as possible for the units – but don’t be afraid to play around with complementary colours. We often steer our clients towards more neutral shades on high-level units, to keep the room looking as open and welcoming as possible, but opt for darker or more striking tones on lower-level or island units. This will ensure the space doesn’t feel cold or sterile but also means you can inject your own sense of personality into a room, showcasing who you are as the homeowner.
If your budget doesn’t allow for an investment in a complete overhaul, then there are some quick fixes you can do to make the room feel warmer and more inviting.
Firstly, combining textures in the kitchen will instantly give the space a luxurious feel. Add small throw pillows to dining and breakfast-bar chairs or try bistro-style blinds for your windows, opting for fabrics that combine the tones already in your kitchen. And for a real feeling of warmth, replace stark overhead lights with table lamps on window ledges and worktops. A controversial design decision but one our clients never regret!
The key thing to remember is that country kitchens effortlessly combine form and function while showcasing the personality of the homeowner. Think warm tones, mixed materials and timeless aesthetics, and you can’t go far wrong.
For a complimentary design meeting with the in-house team at Christopher Peters, visit christopherpeters.com.