How Kitchens by Holloways created a modern design for a Victorian farmhouse

Bringing a period property up to date can be a challenge if a priority is retaining its architectural authenticity – we find out how Kitchens by Holloways completely reimagined a country kitchen.

This farm cottage project represents a transformative kitchen, extension, pantry and utility renovation by Kitchens by Holloways. Through intelligent spatial planning and a sensitive balance of heritage character and contemporary functionality, the scheme redefines the heart of this home, creating a cohesive, open-plan environment that is both highly practical and quietly luxurious.

Constrained by a small, fragmented kitchen layout, the original space suffered from poor flow, limited storage and an impractical dining table that obstructed movement.

Kitchens by Holloways replaced this with a streamlined Ludlow kitchen design, anchored by a generous multifunctional island that brings cooking, preparation and seating into one sociable zone.

Now positioned as the natural centre of the home, the kitchen connects seamlessly with a newly built timber extension beyond, which replaces an outdated conservatory and provides a spacious living and dining area better suited to the scale of the property.

Ceiling height was a key consideration within the original kitchen footprint, prompting a careful approach to tall cabinetry. By recessing the fridge into the pantry wall and placing tall glazed units either side, the design introduces visual depth and soft, atmospheric lighting without overwhelming the space. The result is a kitchen that feels balanced and considered, despite its generous storage capacity.

The adjoining pantry and back kitchen play a vital supporting role in the design, housing a secondary sink, bins and additional food storage to keep the main kitchen calm and clutter-free. This hardworking zone allows for efficient preparation and clean-up whilst preserving the kitchen’s primary role as a welcoming space.

Completing the scheme is a Schüller-designed utility room that has been treated with the same level of design attention as the kitchen itself. Shaker-style cabinetry, natural oak worktops and a classic Belfast sink nod to the farmhouse’s rustic heritage, while integrated laundry solutions, bespoke boot room seating and discreet storage ensure the space performs effortlessly for modern life.

From the redesign of the inefficient layout to the creation of a beautifully connected kitchen, pantry, utility and living space, this project exemplifies Kitchens by Holloways’ approach to spatial planning.

Every element has been carefully considered to enhance flow, proportion and everyday usability, resulting in a home that feels wonderfully timeless whilst attuned to contemporary living.