Nestled in the heart of Yorkshire, the owners of a grand Georgian Rectory with outbuildings set out on an ambitious refurbishment project of the entire property, including the addition of an orangery on the ground floor. This gave the advantage of starting from scratch to create a kitchen perfectly tailored to the needs and desires of the property owners. In addition to the kitchen, Martin Moore cabinetry was also chosen for the living room, boot room and master bedroom for a timeless finish throughout the home.
For the kitchen, the brief was to create a space that had a sense of belonging: although part of the room was a modern extension, it needed to feel as though it had always been there and was a natural and integral part of the home. Ample storage was also a must-have for the client, and the incorporation of a back kitchen, along with generous cabinetry, ensured the brief was met.
Upon entering the kitchen, a large island, hand painted in Martin Moore’s Almost Black, immediately catches the eye. Due to the spaciousness of the room, it was important for the furniture to be on a grand scale to maintain balance. Although great in size, the island still has ample floor space surrounding it to maintain flow and functionality in the kitchen.
Martin Moore designer Matthew Sedgwick suggested building an entirely new back kitchen within the main kitchen diner space and converting the previous utility room into a boot room. In keeping with the home’s Georgian heritage, symmetry was an important element to incorporate into the kitchen’s design. Two identical dressers flank the glazed doors to the back kitchen, one cleverly concealing a home bar, and the other used for storage. The dressers make an impressive sight and are painted in a contrasting shade in cohesion with the island opposite.
The back kitchen provides the clients with extra storage space and a place to carry out more practical and ‘messy’ kitchen tasks. Tucked away out of sight, it allows the main kitchen space to remain clutter-free and calm. Painted in a cool Pebble Grey, the back kitchen has a tranquil feel and is reminiscent of a more traditional country kitchen. The butler sink adds even more character; situated perfectly between the two dressers, it creates a pleasingly symmetrical centrepiece.
Situated in the back corner of the kitchen, the deep set window is an original feature from the period property and offers a spectacular view out onto the landscaped garden. Another symmetrical element, the window is framed by two dressers, providing additional storage as well as style. A window seat creates the perfect place to perch and enjoy the scenery.
A large, mirrored splashback is perfectly situated to reflect the beautiful views of the landscaped gardens through the plentiful glazed areas of the orangery. It matches the mirrored interior of the home bar; with both mirrors reflecting light, the room feels even more spacious and bright.
Cabinetry and shelving add even more character, as well as additional storage for books and prized ornaments, to the snug living space. Matching the kitchen island and dressers, the room is swathed in a dark and moody shade, creating a sense of drama whilst remaining homely.
A large fireplace, along with grey sandstone flooring, conjures a rustic and cosy feel in the boot room. The grey English Collection cabinetry perfectly fits the unusual shape of the room and mirrors the shades of the flooring, whilst a bespoke bench creates an ideal spot to change muddy boots and to hang coats and leads on the hooks above.
In the master bedroom, bespoke cabinetry ensures ample and perfectly tailored storage solutions for the client. On one side of the room, incorporated into the wardrobe, is a central door that leads into the ensuite behind, cleverly disguised to appear as part of the cabinetry for a seamless finish.
In a similar fashion, the walk-in wardrobe was designed around each client’s storage requirements and are designed to maximise storage in dedicated zones. Discreet LED lighting provides internal illumination to the wardrobes.
