Kitchen design for Arts and Crafts houses is an art form in itself, and here at Shere Kitchens, we consider ourselves fortunate to be surrounded by and work in a plethora of such inspiring houses and gardens in Surrey. The privilege of contributing to the renovation of an Arts and Crafts house is always met with great honour. Our approach is rooted in the delicate balance of respectfully designing and crafting kitchens that pay homage to the movement's roots, all while ensuring that the restoration brings the home seamlessly into the present day.
The Arts and Crafts movement, spanning from 1870 to 1920, serves as a profound inspiration for us as creators. Emerging as a reaction to industrialisation and the prevalence of mass-produced buildings and furniture, this movement focused on the values of art, nature, craftsmanship, and the use of natural materials. Today, we take pride in crafting design-led furniture that draws inspiration from traditional methods, joints, and mouldings championed by the Arts and Crafts movement.
Arts and Crafts houses in Surrey boast distinctive features such as tile hanging, tall chimneys, leaded lights, and big hipped gables. A stellar example of these characteristics can be found in Goddards House in Abinger Common, just down the road from our workshop. Built between 1898-1900 by architect Edwin Lutyens for wealthy businessman Frederick Mirrielees, this Grade II house stands as a testament to the shared appreciation for craftsmanship, high-quality materials, and the creation of useful items.
Kitchen design for Arts and Crafts Houses: Incorporating Arts and Crafts references into our designs involves a meticulous process:
-
Traditional Material Palette: We favour traditional materials, especially oak, to resonate with the authenticity of the Arts and Crafts movement.
-
Considered Design Elements: Our designs are not just visually pleasing; they are also thoughtfully crafted to be practical, aligning with the movement's emphasis on utility.
-
Details and Textures: Wooden cabinets, flooring, and hardware with intricate details and textures, including ironwork, play a crucial role in adding depth to our designs.
-
Glazed Cabinets and Oversized Dressers: Inspired by historical cabinetry, we often include glazed cabinets and oversized dressers, where space allows, to capture the essence of the Arts and Crafts era.
-
Proportions and Mouldings: With our background in classical joinery and traditional cabinetry, we bring a deep understanding of proportions and mouldings, ensuring that our designs enhance the character of your property and seamlessly integrate with the house's aesthetic.
One of our proudest Arts and Crafts inspired furniture pieces drew inspiration from the Lutyens crockery cabinet at Crooksbury, Surrey. Our incorporation of a detailed moulding continuing into the Dado Rail throughout the room adds a timeless touch that grounds the furniture and seamlessly blends it into its surroundings.
A key element for us in kitchen design for arts and crafts houses is collaborating with our clients. We delve into the history of their homes and understand their specific goals for renovation. Our goal is to draw inspiration from the past while crafting new designs that accommodate modern living seamlessly. If you're eager to discuss your project with us, please don't hesitate to contact us via [email protected]. We look forward to bringing the timeless charm of Arts and Crafts design into your home.
Photo credit of Goddards Country House, Andrew Martin via Pixabay
Design plan, render and cabinet by Shere Kitchens Ltd.