The starting point for this project was the architect’s plans - showing how an extension was to change the layout of the ground floor of our client’s current home. The newly-created, large space for the kitchen was to link the living/dining area on one side and flow through to a utility/boot room space. Our clients requested a kitchen that was traditional, to be in keeping with the old part of the house and its rural setting, but with a contemporary edge to suit the new extension and how that was changing their home.
The extension had large floor to ceiling windows looking out on to the garden and a sky light which the clients wanted to position a kitchen island under. This left two walls to house the cabinetry and appliances on.
It was decided that the hob would be designed on to the island so ventilation options were considered. The best solution appeared to be installing a vented hob which would be ducted out through the floor - this would keep a clear view of the garden and allow the large sky light to stay in the proposed place.
The layout of the walls in the utility area could be adapted, so Peter spent time looking at how best to position the walls - to allow access to a plant room, while providing an ample utility room and good storage as part of a boot room. Peter also advised on reduced VAT charges due to the property being empty for a significant period of time.
Focusing on the kitchen - it made visual and practical sense to run the tall bank of units opposite the wall of windows - this would house the ovens and leave enough room for a full height integrated fridge and double door pantry. The pantry was to be a key feature of this run of cabinetry with a quartz worktop inside as well as open shelving and drawers.
We often design sinks near a window for a view but that wasn’t possible so the sink was designed on the additional run, within easy stepping distance of the hob and fridge - forming the traditional work triangle. Designing in pull out bins and a dishwasher to flank the sink contains the waste management area.
Drawers were a major feature of the island for practical reasons - for utensils, pans etc under the hob and on the opposite side for cutlery (directly across from the dishwasher). Drawers allow easier access than cupboards so these were mostly chosen over cupboards.
Calcatta gold quartz was chosen as the worktop for its elegance and durability . The bold vein attracts the eye and makes a statement against the green. The decision was made to run the splashback behind the sink around under the open shelving in one continuous line to keep it a sharp line and to allow the beauty of the veining to stand out.
To add a contemporary edge to the design, an oak section was designed in, to form a breakfast bar seating area. This was to be lightened with a white stain to reflect the wooden interior of the cabinets and the flooring that our clients wished to have.
Open oak shelving was also chosen to connect the two wall runs to allow for the client’s ceramic vases and cook books to be displayed. This use of oak helped the island and rest of the cabinetry to reflect each other.
Being in a rural setting, green fields and forest dominate the landscape so tones of different green were chosen for the kitchen and the utility/bootroom to help the house feel connected to its setting. The darker tone in the utility was partly a practical choice but it is also fun to play it less safe in areas such as cloakrooms and utility areas. The dark tones of Copse Green toned well with the Regents Green of the kitchen but the colour strikes a bolder note (not pictured).
Finally, dark brushed brass hardware by Hendel & Hendel was suggested, along with a brushed brass Franke tap - to contrast with the green of the cabinetry but retain the warm tones of the wood. Different combinations of bar and cup handles were proposed before our customers decided on the current selection.
This EllingtonMennie kitchen forms a stunning focal point to the new extension and appears both striking but warm and welcoming at the same time. The colour palette links the house to the surrounding countryside and the practical pantry and island make the kitchen both highly functional as well as beautiful. We love the space and light in this stunning design.
We are delighted that our customers enjoyed their experience with us…
“We had such excellent advice from Ellington Mennie, all the more as I didn't really know exactly what I wanted. Peter, with his infinite patience, helped us find all the right choices. Craig was a delight to have in the house and the kitchen/laundry room/bootroom were up and running very quickly and quietly. Craig diligently matched the wood finish to our floor. We are extremely happy with our kitchen which works well in our style of house.”
Jacqueline & Andrew, Ballogie