Ella Austin Signature In-Frame Shaker
This beautifully crafted kitchen forms part of our Ella Austin Signature collection - a fully handmade project created locally in our Surrey workshop, where every cabinet is designed and built entirely from scratch. The brief was to design a timeless yet contemporary family kitchen with a strong sense of symmetry, warmth and refined detailing. By blending classic in-frame shaker cabinetry with rich natural walnut and striking quartz surfaces, we created a space that feels elegant, inviting and perfectly suited to modern living.
Category: Signature Collection, In-Frame, Shaker, Traditional, Kitchen
Price Range: £50-60K
Location: Farnham
At the heart of the design is our bespoke in-frame shaker cabinetry, featuring bold 60mm rail and stile proportions, decorative beaded centre panels and subtle cockbead detailing to the frame.
The perimeter cabinetry was painted in Little Green’s Slaked Lime Mid, a soft neutral tone that reflects light beautifully and provides a timeless backdrop to the space. To contrast and add warmth, a stunning natural walnut island was introduced, creating a striking focal point while offering a generous social hub for cooking, dining and entertaining. All cabinetry was carefully designed and handcrafted to fit seamlessly to the ceiling, maximising storage and creating a refined, architectural finish.
Refined details elevate the overall design, including two illuminated reeded glass wall cabinets that add texture and visual interest while softly showcasing glassware.
Hardware was carefully selected, with Hendel & Hendel Liberty handles with backplates and T-bars in dark brushed brass bringing a subtle richness to the cabinetry. A Quooker Fusion tap in patinated brass with matching soap dispenser complements the warm tones, while a BORA X Pure vented hob provides sleek, integrated ventilation on the island. Discreet power is supplied via an S-Box Chameleon pop-up socket, maintaining the clean lines of the island.
Worktops
We chose Classic Quartz Montclair quartz worktops, for their elegant veining and luxurious appearance. These flow seamlessly into a full height quartz splashback, bringing cohesion and drama to the cooking area. The island features a double mitred waterfall edge, adding a bold visual impact.
To further enhance the space in the evenings, we rebated a bespoke lighting channel beneath the worktop, creating a soft ambient glow that subtly highlights the handmade cabinetry and adds warmth and depth to the room.
Storage Solutions
Storage was a key focus throughout the design, with a range of bespoke internal solutions tailored to the client’s lifestyle.
Handcrafted walnut drawers feature throughout the kitchen, complete with custom cutlery organisers, knife block and spice racks. A standout feature is the bespoke larder, incorporating door-activated lighting, internal walnut drawers and beautifully organised shelving, combining practicality with a truly luxurious feel.
The full height fridge, separate freezer, and additional glass-fronted wine cooler were all intregrated beautifully into our cabinetry for a clean, seamless look.
Challenges
One of the unique challenges of this project was incorporating a traditional skirting-style plinth while ensuring the integrated dishwasher light remained visible - something that is often lost with this design approach.
Our solution was to carve a bespoke section into the plinth, allowing full visibility of the indicator light while also creating additional toe space for standing comfortably at the sink. It’s a small detail, but one that perfectly reflects our commitment to intelligent, user-focused design.
This project is a true showcase of what’s possible when handcrafted joinery meets contemporary innovation. From the bold in-frame shaker proportions and natural walnut island to the striking quartz surfaces and bespoke internal storage, every element has been carefully considered and expertly crafted.
The result is a timeless yet modern kitchen - warm, functional and designed to be enjoyed for many years to come.
HIGHLIGHTS
Cabinetry: Ella Austin Signature Collection
Perimeter: Little Green Slaked Lime Mid
Island: Natural Walnut
Drawerboxes: Bespoke Solid Walnut Dovetail
Hardware: Dark Brushed Brass Hendel & Hendel Liberty Bars & T-Bars
Worktop: 30mm CQ Montclair Quartz
Integrated Cooling Appliances: Liebherr
Ovens: Siemens
Hob: Bora X Pure Vented
Tap: Quooker Fusion Round Patinated Brass w/Soap Dispenser
Cabinet Lighting: Sensio
Photography: Malonda Photos
“We had a really positive experience with Ella Austin Kitchens from start to finish. We visited a few other kitchen companies beforehand, but Ella Austin really stood out for their friendly, welcoming approach. From the first meeting, we felt listened to and completely at ease.
A special mention to Lily, our designer, who was fantastic throughout—professional, patient, and full of great ideas. She took the time to understand what we wanted and helped turn it into a kitchen that looks beautiful and works perfectly for our space.
The whole process was smooth and enjoyable, and we’re absolutely thrilled with the end result. We wouldn’t hesitate to recommend Ella Austin Kitchens to anyone considering a new kitchen.”
