Mark Hassett, senior designer at Sheraton Interiors, reveals how he created the perfect calm and clutter-free kitchen environment for clients who live surrounded by woodlands.
Q: What type of property was it in and who was the project for?
A: This kitchen was designed for a private client in a home with a strong connection to nature. Surrounded by woodlands, the house itself has a modern architectural feel.
Q: What was the brief from the client for this project?
A: The goal was to create a space that felt warm, natural, and stylish – somewhere they could cook, entertain, and just enjoy everyday life. The client wanted a kitchen that was minimalistic but not cold, sophisticated but still inviting. They loved the idea of using natural materials and a soft, earthy colour palette to connect with the outdoors. Functionally, they wanted plenty of hidden storage, and a generous prep space.
Q: How did you go about meeting the brief?
A: We kept things simple yet refined, choosing materials and finishes that felt organic and calming. The handleless oak cabinetry gives for a clean look, while the Dekton Trevi stone adds natural warmth and texture. There is plenty of storage both in the wall and base units as well as within the island with big pan drawers and base units utilising both sides of the island with ample space for seating for 4. The large sliding doors open to the garden, flooding the space with natural light and making the kitchen feel like an extension of the outdoors.
Q: What type of cabinetry did you choose and what made it the perfect choice?
A: We went for bespoke oak veneer cabinetry with a soft, natural grain. The warmth of the wood contrasts beautifully with the stone, making the kitchen feel balanced. The handleless design keeps everything looking modern, which was a key part of the client’s vision.
Q: What materials did you use?
A: The Dekton isn’t just on the worktops, its got a waterfall feature down one side – it also wraps around the sink units with a full height splashback, creating a really cohesive, textural look.
Q: What were the challenges that you faced and what were your solutions to overcome them?
A: One of the biggest challenges was making sure the space felt warm and inviting rather than too stark. With such a pared-back design, it’s easy for things to feel flat, so we played with textures – natural wood, stone, and soft lighting – to add warmth and character.
Another challenge was getting the alignment just right between the cabinetry and the stone. Because we wrapped the stone around different elements, every measurement had to be spot on. It took some careful planning (and a few adjustments on-site!), but the end result was totally worth it.
Q: Are there any design elements that you’re particularly proud of?
A: We wrapped the oak across the back wall so the kitchen felt more integrated in the space. I also love the framed window above the worktop – it acts like a natural piece of art, bringing in greenery and light in the most effortless way.
Q: What is the client's favourite part of the finished project?
A: They love how calming and natural the space feels. It’s exactly what they envisioned – understated but full of thoughtful details. The island, in particular, gets a lot of love. It’s not just a practical workspace, but a focal point for the entire kitchen. Plus, the way the kitchen flows into the garden makes it a dream for entertaining.
