Designing a kitchen for a period home requires a very careful balance between designing a space that is suitable for modern living while at the same time feeling like home and in harmony with the architecture and atmosphere of the property.
There's a lot to consider, but this English mansion, which once housed kings and soldiers, is an example of how the right kitchen colors can transform a room from beautifully classic to a striking design that truly honors the property's history.
This sleek kitchen taps into two of this year's biggest color trends – and it proves that the boldest hues can create an elegant space if you know how to combine them. Here's everything you need to know about this historic conversion and a lesson on decorating with these eye-catching colors.
(Image credit: deVOL Kitchens)
“Raynham Hall is a listed house of national historic significance, meaning many of its interiors have remained largely unchanged since the 17th century,” says Francesca Froggatt, head kitchen designer at deVOL Kitchens, who was responsible for converting the space into a family kitchen for owners Octavia, Tom and their children.
This was a particularly unique project – the kitchen had occasionally served as an event space before the remodel, so the design team was really starting from scratch with the style and layout of the space. However, as this property is a listed building, there was a long list of restrictions.
“Decoration is part of the listing, meaning every surface, including the intricate gilding, ornate carvings, grand fireplaces and murals, had to be left untouched,” explains Francesca.
“The green on the walls is believed to be the original color and part of the project was a careful restoration rather than a redesign.” Essentially, hardly anything has changed visually; The redesign was all about restoring a sense of practicality and warmth to a space that had been more ceremonial than residential for many years.
(Image credit: deVOL Kitchens)
Although the green wall color is an original feature, it required gentle restoration. So they worked with the expert team at Edward Bulmer Paint to ensure it remained historically accurate. From there, they could start thinking about complementary colors to introduce.
“With such a powerful backdrop, we knew the furniture needed real presence to assert itself in the space.” Octavia and Tom chose deVOL's Refectory Red for the furniture, a deep red that adds warmth and weight without competing with the period decor. “The combination feels both bold and harmonious, blending old and new in a way that feels completely natural in the environment,” she explains.
“Color plays a huge role in creating the atmosphere of such a huge space.” The rich green walls and deep red furniture combine to create a feeling of warmth and intimacy, drawing the eye and helping to tone down the formality of the space. Despite the size, the kitchen now feels inviting and comfortable, a space where you can imagine cooking, chatting and spending time together.”
(Image credit: deVOL Kitchens)
And the restrictions didn’t stop at the walls. The furniture undoubtedly fits the style and size of the room perfectly, but that's not the only reason they went for this look – they had to choose cabinets and appliances that didn't need to be attached to the walls.
“As the house is listed, we were unable to repair or add anything to the original wood or stonework. “Every piece of furniture had to be designed to fit harmoniously into the space without disturbing the historic fabric of the building,” recalls Francesca, adding that furniture could only be attached to the floor and since services also had to be introduced through the floorboards, they were really limited in the kitchen layout.
“Octavia and Tom were incredibly understanding of these limitations; they chose to house their large fridge and freezer in the adjacent pantry, keeping the main kitchen low and unobtrusive. “This meant that the furniture could sit quietly alongside the room's decorative elements, such as the gilded carvings, paintings and huge windows, complementing them rather than competing with them,” she says.
(Image credit: deVOL Kitchens)
“As much of the wall space is occupied by heritage decorative elements, there was only one practical area for floor-to-ceiling cupboards.” We used it as a large freestanding breakfast cabinet while the fridge, freezer and most of the pantry were moved to the next room. The result is a layout that feels deliberately minimalist and elegant, giving the historical details room to breathe.”
This kitchen is truly a masterclass in designing a beautiful kitchen in a historic home. There is an artful balance here – the decadence and grandeur of the space is offset by the simplicity of the furniture and cabinets.
“It would have been easy to indulge in the decorative splendor of the room and design something ornate, but that could have overwhelmed the space.” “Octavia and Tom wanted to keep the furniture clean, simple and timeless, pieces that felt like they could have always been there,” says Francesca.
“Painted in bold hues, the Shaker cabinet design adds a sense of functionality and calm to the space, balancing the opulence of the surroundings.” The result feels authentic and quietly respectful; “A kitchen that fits beautifully into modern family life, whilst also fitting perfectly with the history and character of Raynham Hall.”
(Image credit: deVOL Kitchens)
In many ways, it's a kitchen that doesn't look like a kitchen. The minimalist approach to furniture, hidden appliances and emphasis on freestanding furniture feel inviting and anything but utilitarian. Even the round dining table surrounded by antique chairs feels cozier and more curated than your usual seating area.
And kitchen lighting plays a big role, especially when it comes to creating a more inviting atmosphere, from the large windows to the built-in fixtures. “The challenge was to make such a large, formal space welcoming and livable again,” says Francesca.
“By introducing warm tones, thoughtful furniture placement and beautiful lighting, we have helped to reduce the size and create the impression of a more intimate atmosphere; a space that the family can truly enjoy every day rather than admire from a distance.”
Shop the look
Robert Abbey
Kinetic swing arm lamp
To introduce targeted task lighting in an aesthetic and visually appealing way, Francesca chose wall sconces. This style of lighting creates a cozy atmosphere and is a decorative detail. This plugin theme from Wayfair is very similar and easy to install.
Williams Sonoma
Glass oil and vinegar quantity set
On the countertops you'll notice there are lots of pretty jars and bottles full of oils and everyday ingredients. Upgrading your packaging with this handsome cruet duo will enhance the look of your countertops and make them appear less cluttered.
Pottery Barn
Marquee marble cheese board with large handle
Whether you love the original fireplace in this kitchen design or want to be inspired by the cutting board on the kitchen island, this marble cheese board, available in two sizes, is a chic way to introduce this classic stone into your kitchen.
deVOL
The Heirloom Gaselier Lamp
The only ceiling light in this kitchen is the light above the island, and Francesca chose The Heirloom Gaselier Light, which comes in three sizes to suit the size of your kitchen, whether you have high ceilings or a smaller cottage design.
Wayfair
Astoria Grand vintage curved wall mirror
Even though you'll never be able to recreate the authentic antique look of this kitchen, adding ornate mirrors is a timeless way to give it character. This brass design is a beautiful option to bridge the gap between modern and vintage styles.
Delta faucet
Modern round instant hot water dispenser
In the adjacent pantry, the family adopted some of the high-tech features that would look out of place in the main kitchen. One of those things is a hot water faucet, similar to this Seek design, with a rounded silhouette and brass finish.
This kitchen proves that even the most unexpected color combinations can look chic and timeless – even in a historic mansion like Raynham Hall. And with the right choice of furniture and decor, even the most spacious kitchens can feel cozy and inviting.