Jasper In-Frame Shaker F&B Selvedge
This project involved a complete reconfiguration of the clients’ existing ground-floor layout. The larger vaulted section of the room had previously been used as a lounge, complete with an old brick fireplace, while the working kitchen was crammed into the smaller end of the space.
The original setup didn’t suit the family’s routine and didn’t make the most of the room’s natural light or generous ceiling height. The brief was to switch the two areas entirely, moving the main kitchen into the vaulted section and repurposing the former kitchen area as an extended run of cabinetry that functions almost like a secondary utility zone. This change created a much more open, usable layout with the island naturally becoming the centre of the home.
All building works were carried out by our in-house contractor, which allowed us to manage the project from start to finish. The works included the removal of the old fireplace, full rewiring, new plumbing, the installation of new flooring throughout, and complete plastering and decorating. By the time our pre-installation team arrived, the space had been prepared as a completely fresh canvas ready for the new kitchen.
Category: Shaker, In-Frame, Traditional, Modern, Catalogue Collection, Signature Collection
Price Range: £50-60K
Location: Farnham
The new kitchen features beautiful in-frame shaker cabinetry, painted in a soft blue chosen by the clients - Farrow & Ball Selvedge. The vaulted section now accommodates a large central island with seating for the whole family, generous deep drawers, and clear cooking and preparation zones. A symmetrical bank of four ovens, fully integrated appliances and extensive storage give the room the practicality needed for day-to-day life. From this main area, the cabinetry continues seamlessly down into the smaller section of the room, creating additional worktop space and storage that sit far enough away to feel naturally separate, giving the clients a subtle utility-style area while still remaining connected to the kitchen.
Design Challenges - Electric Meter Cupboard Solution - Before vs after photos below
One of the more challenging aspects of the project was dealing with the electrical meter, which was mounted awkwardly on the side of a wall beam. Because the meter faced sideways, it was impossible to conceal within a typical forward-opening cabinet without compromising access. To overcome this, we designed a bespoke false-fronted countertop cabinet. From the front it appears to be a standard dresser-style unit with a fixed shaker panel, but the side conceals a hidden flat door that allows full access to the meter. This solution keeps the entire elevation clean and consistent while still meeting all practical requirements.
White quartz worktops were installed throughout, giving the room bright, durable and easy-to-maintain surfaces. Additional details such as the bespoke cooker canopy, mirrored recess behind the hob and hand-built internal storage complete the design.
The end result is a bright, open family kitchen that makes full use of the vaulted architecture and now flows far more effectively than the original layout. By repositioning the kitchen and extending the cabinetry into the smaller end of the space, the clients now have a highly functional, cohesive room with defined zones, improved workflow and a completely transformed sense of space.
HIGHLIGHTS
Cabinetry: Ella Austin Handmade Catalogue Collection, with Aisling Artisan Jasper In-Frame Shaker Frontals
Paint: Farrow & Ball Selvedge
Cabinets: Natural Kendal Oak
Drawerboxes: Bespoke Solid White Oak Dovetail
Hardware: Jolie Essence Old Silver Handles
Worktop: 30mm Cimstone Britannica Quartz
Splashback: Bespoke Vintage Finish Antique Mirror
Hob: Neff N70 90cm Gas Hob
Hood: Miro Stealth
Sink: 1000mm Cumbria Double Butler Sink
Tap: Quooker Flex Stainless Steel w/Cube
Internal Mechanisms: Vauth Sagel
Cabinet Lighting: Sensio
Photography: Malonda Photos
“Absolute pleasure to work with Ella Austin from start to finish - not that their service ever really finishes as they have made it clear that they are always on hand if any issues ever arise (which is unlikely given the quality).
Lily designed our kitchen and was always happy to revise and edit the design when we had new ideas o changed our minds - nothing was too much trouble. Once we ordered the kitchen Tommy became our main point of contact and worked closely with our builder (Dan - who they EA recommended and was absolutely fab) so there was almost nothing for us to do. Both Lily and Tommy were friendly and professional throughout and we enjoyed working with them both.
The kitchen itself is beautiful - but also completely practical and makes perfect use of our space; and the little touches Lily suggested finish it off perfectly. There is no denying the kitchen was expensive, but having had cheaper kitchens from high street brands before I am confident in saying that EA is incredibly good value when you look at the full service (design, measuring, aftercare) and kitchen quality (which will last decades).”
