The client, a design-conscious homeowner, sought to transform her period property into a space that would seamlessly blend timeless elegance with contemporary function. The property, nestled in the heart of a Scottish coastal town, needed a design to balance modern conveniences with the home's rich architectural heritage, all while maintaining a warm, inviting atmosphere. Key considerations included maximising natural light from a full-height picture window and central skylight, integrating seating for two, and creating a dedicated breakfast cupboard, all within a £25K budget.
Design Concept:
We took inspiration from modern Scandinavian interiors- known for their natural textures, clean lines, and clever use of light. The space was envisioned as the heart of the home: open, calm, and beautifully integrated with the living and dining zones. The result is a tranquil yet practical sanctuary where form and function meet.
Layout & Flow:
The lofty space demanded a design that preserved the uninterrupted beauty of the tall picture window. Rather than a peninsula, we chose to place an island parallel to the main wall, maintaining an unobstructed view and fostering a sense of openness. The island, with seating for two, is designed for relaxed mornings—an intimate spot for coffee or casual meals. Its soft curve and textured back panel introduce a sense of warmth, effortlessly dividing the kitchen from the adjacent dining area without closing it off. We positioned the dining table below the skylight, allowing it to be bathed in light.
The kitchen embraces the height of the room, with a double-height storage bank that reaches toward the sky. Here, we tucked away the all-important breakfast cupboard, ensuring everyday essentials are neatly hidden but still within reach. The sink area is framed with elegant wood panels, gently bathed in soft ambient lighting, creating a serene, welcoming feel.
Materials & Aesthetic:
The materials are a celebration of understated Scandinavian elegance. A soft, natural palette of light oak, crisp white, and muted matte grey sets the tone for a space that feels at once serene and contemporary. Handleless cabinets in satin finishes flow seamlessly, offering a minimalist aesthetic that lets the beauty of the materials speak for themselves.
To elevate the tactile experience, we chose a striking concrete-effect laminate for the worktops that wrap around the island—textured, durable, and visually compelling. The island itself is softened with an Orac panel that adds a hint of organic warmth to the space, inviting touch and creating visual depth.
Storage & Functionality:
Clever storage solutions keep the kitchen free of clutter while remaining highly functional. Full-height cabinetry along the back wall provides ample space without overwhelming the room, while deep drawers below the island optimise usability. The breakfast cupboard is a thoughtfully integrated feature, offering a discreet space to store everyday kitchen items, ensuring countertops remain clear and tidy.
Result:
The end result is a kitchen that marries the beauty of natural light, thoughtful design, and the timeless elegance of Scandinavian simplicity. Practical yet inspiring, it is a space that feels as enduring as the home it resides in—efficient, welcoming, and forever in style. All this, achieved within a £25K budget.