How DeVOL Kitchens designed a characterful scheme for a grand Victorian villa

We talk to Emma Winchester, senior designer at DeVOL Kitchens, to hear how she set about creating a unique space for clients with eclectic taste and a large collection of antiques and curios.

Designing a kitchen for a period property presents the designer with a choice – they can either opt for a traditional but safe door style, or change things up with a minimalist look that lets the features of a room take centre stage. The third option is to maximise the look and wholeheartedly embrace the classic elements in the space.

"The kitchen was previously quite modern and minimalist, with neutral furniture and fittings," says Emma Winchester, senior kitchen designer at DeVOL. "The house had beautiful bones so the client decided to work hard to lean into the grandeur and bring everything to life."

DeVOL's bespoke Classic English Kitchen furniture was chosen as its proportions are well suited to homes with high ceilings. The cupboards have traditionally-made doors and fascias, constructed from prime ‘rock maple’, and all handmade to measure in the company's Leicestershire workshops. Here, the fitted back run of cupboards offers plenty of storage but also presents an opportunity for the owners to create a striking display. DeVOL's Cream Subway Tiles add a little gloss and simplicity, and the honed black granite worktops add depth and richness.

The worktop rounds the corner to flow seamlessly into the sink run with the 800mm single ceramic sink with wide flutes adding period authenticity. "There are lots of different storage options, from closed cabinets, and glazed cupboards, to open shelving," says Emma. This mix adds depth, character and also provides plenty of practical, varied storage for different items."

So what was the key inspiration for her design? "The customer has an incredible collection of objects and curiosities, both old and new," Emma explains. "We wanted to create a space where these items would feel at home." So it was a case of marrying the functional with a fitting aesthetic that allowed for a touch of eccentricity.

One element that was non-negotiable and high on the client's wishlist was the petite Heirloom Dairy Table, which anchors the room, creates extra prep space and adds some visual contrast as the light translucent Carrara marble balances harmoniously with the black granite worktops. "The customer was adamant they wanted to include it from the beginning of the process," says Emma.

In the dining area at the other end of the room the lighter shade of cabinetry also acts as a visual counterbalance. 

"The biggest change we made was the introduction of colour and textures, plus the decision to add the hugh chimney surround, which makes a real statement," says Emma. So how would she describe the kitchen now? "Eclectic, grand, fun – and personal," she says simply.