TWO-TONE SHAKER KITCHEN
Set within the East Devon countryside, this home has undergone a remarkable transformation. When the current owners purchased the property a few years ago, the kitchen was compact, enclosed and difficult to use. Working with designer Ben Gilbert, the space has been completely reimagined into a bright, open-plan kitchen that feels both highly functional and effortlessly sociable.
THE KITCHEN
At the heart of the design is a carefully balanced palette of Shaldon in Porcelain and Marine. The soft Porcelain cabinetry keeps the space feeling light and expansive, while the Marine island introduces depth and contrast, grounding the room and creating a natural focal point.
Storage and usability were key priorities in this project, with every element thoughtfully considered to enhance day-to-day living.
The central island not only provides generous preparation space but also incorporates a built-in chopping board set, keeping essential tools close to hand. Surrounding cabinetry offers a wealth of storage, with internal cutlery trays ensuring everything remains organised and easy to access.
In the corner, a LeMans corner cabinet makes full use of what would otherwise be a difficult area, providing smooth, practical storage. Pull-out bins positioned near both the hob and sink support an intuitive workflow, allowing the space to function seamlessly during cooking and cleaning.
An integrated wine rack sits neatly at the end of the run of cabinetry, adding a subtle feature without interrupting the clean lines of the design.
The worktops, upstands and window sills are finished in quartz, bringing durability as well as a refined, cohesive look throughout the space.
A standout feature within the kitchen is the bespoke drinks cabinet, finished in Marine. With a glazed door, internal glass shelving and integrated LED lighting, it adds both functionality and a touch of understated luxury, creating a dedicated space for entertaining.
All cabinetry is finished with Hendel & Hendel handles, adding a consistent and considered finishing detail across the scheme.
THE UTILITY
The utility room continues the same thoughtful approach to design, using Holne in Porcelain to maintain a cohesive aesthetic while introducing a subtle variation in style.
Despite its compact footprint, the space has been carefully maximised to provide both ample worktop area and storage. An integrated fridge is neatly positioned within the left-hand cabinetry, while on the right, the washing machine and tumble dryer are elevated within bespoke housings. Built on cupboards, this configuration not only improves accessibility but also increases storage capacity below.
The result is a highly efficient, well-organised utility space that complements the main kitchen perfectly.
A SPACE DESIGNED FOR LIVING
This East Devon project is a clear example of how thoughtful design can completely reshape the way a home is used. What was once a restrictive and enclosed kitchen is now a light-filled, open and practical space that supports both everyday routines and social occasions with ease.
By combining intelligent storage solutions, carefully selected materials and a balanced colour palette, Ben Gilbert has created a kitchen and utility that feel both timeless and tailored to the needs of the homeowners.
A SPACE DESIGNED FOR LIVING
This East Devon project is a clear example of how thoughtful design can completely reshape the way a home is used. What was once a restrictive and enclosed kitchen is now a light-filled, open and practical space that supports both everyday routines and social occasions with ease.
By combining intelligent storage solutions, carefully selected materials and a balanced colour palette, Ben Gilbert has created a kitchen and utility that feel both timeless and tailored to the needs of the homeowners.
A SPACE DESIGNED FOR LIVING
This East Devon project is a clear example of how thoughtful design can completely reshape the way a home is used. What was once a restrictive and enclosed kitchen is now a light-filled, open and practical space that supports both everyday routines and social occasions with ease.
By combining intelligent storage solutions, carefully selected materials and a balanced colour palette, Ben Gilbert has created a kitchen and utility that feel both timeless and tailored to the needs of the homeowners.
HIGHLIGHTS FROM THIS PROJECT
ELEGANCE CHOPPING BOARD SET
Neatly integrated within the island, the chopping board set keeps preparation tools exactly where they are needed. Designed to sit flush within the cabinetry, it creates a dedicated prep zone that is both practical and easy to maintain, helping to keep work surfaces clear and organised during everyday use.
LEMANS CORNER STORAGE
The LeMans corner unit transforms an otherwise difficult space into highly accessible storage. Its smooth, curved shelving glides effortlessly out of the cabinet, allowing full visibility and easy reach to items stored at the back, making it an efficient and ergonomic solution for corner cabinetry.
QUOOKER BOILING WATER TAP
Providing instant boiling water on demand, the Quooker tap brings both convenience and efficiency to the kitchen. Whether preparing drinks, cooking or cleaning, it eliminates the need for a kettle, streamlining daily tasks while maintaining a clean and uncluttered worktop.
BESPOKE DRINKS CABINET
Designed as both a functional and decorative feature, the bespoke drinks cabinet offers a dedicated space for entertaining. With glazed doors, internal shelving and integrated lighting, it showcases glassware and bottles beautifully while keeping everything organised and easily accessible.
