We talk to the team at Kent-based kitchen specialist Collins Bespoke to hear how they created a connected open-plan space complete with natural wood finishes and high-quality elements such as a bespoke hood and brass handles.
Q: What type of property was it in and who was the project for?
A: Our Canterbury Kitchen was designed and made for a family, in Canterbury, Kent. It was a converted modern home, extended both sides with a full wrap-around extension extending into a beautiful open garden. The space was large and open, and had a really villa-like feel.
Q: What was the brief from the client for this project?
A: To create an open-plan traditional painted kitchen, in neutral tones. It's main purpose was to be a space for family living, which was also versatile.
Q: How did you go about meeting the brief?
A: Our designers worked closely with our client, designing and planning a variety of computer-generated renders until the design was agreed. Taking into account the space, the window views, the home itself, and, of course, the budget, it took a few attempts – maybe more – but it is really important to have a correct and agreed plan before we start to make the kitchen. Our kitchens are made to the specification of the design in our workshop in Bethersden, near Ashford, Kent.
Q: What type/brand of cabinetry did you choose and what made it the perfect choice?
A: The cabinetry is Beaded Shaker – a really subtle yet beautifully crafted cabinetry style, perfect for a neutral brief. We used a soft natural paint (School House White by Farrow and Ball) and white-washed the natural oaks using oil, keeping the cabinets light.
The burnished brass hardware is Armac Martin and we do like to use British producers and suppliers – we have a wonderful Westin hood fitted into the overmantle above the range too. We pretty much use both these brands in all our kitchens because we trust that they complement the quality and our ethos.
Q: What materials did you use? Did you use anything different or unusual?
A: All real wood veneers and solid wood. European oak for the Island and a mix of beech and composite materials. The worktops are classic quartz Calacatta Gold in 20mm, and burnished brass hardware.
Q: What were the particular challenges that you faced and what were your solutions to overcome them?
A: Being truly fully bespoke, we embrace all challenges, but the only real challenge, albeit minor, was achieving the correct tone for the oak. However, our painting and finishing team is incredibly talented and experienced so we knew they would achieve it.
Q: What is your favourite part of the finished project? Are there any design elements that you’re particularly proud of?
A: We are particularly happy with the end result on the oil finish, and equally the symmetry of the dresser is something cabinet-makers find accomplishing! We love the mixture of oak and painted cabinetry – oak is always so pretty and having natural wood in your kitchen – especially one with a lovely exterior – creates that link with the outdoors.
