An Unconventional Approach to Traditional Design Has Transformed This Family Kitchen Into a Warm, Layered, and Sociable Space

In an old home, especially one of listed status, the obvious approach is to design a kitchen that feels traditional and full of old charm – something that feels like it has always been there. But authenticity in character properties comes in many forms, especially in a kitchen that wouldn't have originally existed.

When the team at Studio 9 Design was entrusted with this kitchen redesign, they decided to take an alternative approach. Respecting the architecture and history was a priority, but so was creating a family kitchen fit for modern-day life. To balance both, they chose to rework classic details in a way that felt a bit more contemporary.

Using a thoughtful color palette, mixed storage styles, and an emphasis on sociable design features, this once dated kitchen is now the true heart of the home, balancing high-function with timeless style.

Imbue Warmth With Earth Tones

It's easy to lean into neutrals when endeavoring to create a kitchen that feels light and uplifting, but switching to softer earth tones is a great way to add a sense of warmth. And in this kitchen, muted green and natural wood tones offered the perfect balance.

'The palette was driven by the wider interior scheme and a desire to create warmth without relying on stark whites,' says Bahar Nejad and Alice Adamczewski, Founders of Studio 9 Design, who collaborated with kitchen makers at Alistair Fleming Design on the project.

'The soft green introduces a sense of tranquility and connection to the surrounding landscape, while the natural timber brings depth and texture. Paired with warm off white and beige tones, the result feels layered, inviting and timeless, a palette that is gentle, understated and easy to live with.'

Scale Up an Island For Storage and Seating Space

There might be standardized sizes for kitchen islands, but one of the biggest mistakes people make is ignoring scale. The island should feel proportionate to the kitchen's size while catering to your everyday requirements – and in this kitchen, an enlarged island was key to the room's success.

'Scale was a key consideration. The room is generously proportioned, and a smaller island would have felt visually lost within the space. The island needed to hold its own architecturally while also serving the practical needs of a family of four. Incorporating seating transformed it into a social hub, encouraging conversation and connection while cooking,' they recall.

'Positioning the sink centrally makes the kitchen feel more sociable and intuitive to use, while integrated storage ensures everyday essentials remain close at hand. We also wanted the island to feel more like a beautifully crafted piece of furniture than a standard kitchen unit, which is why we introduced furniture-style drawers to the front elevation, adding character, craftsmanship, and valuable storage.'

Mix Backsplash Materials For Visual Interest

A kitchen backsplash is one of those defining features that helps to dictate whether a kitchen leans more traditional or contemporary. And because this project required a careful balance of the two, a mixed material backsplash was chosen, with the lower half a marble slab, and the upper half a more classic paneled approach.

'Carrara marble felt like the natural choice for the backsplash. It is timeless, beautifully tactile, and develops character with age, which aligns perfectly with the ethos of the project. Above the marble, we introduced paneling to bring warmth, texture, and another layer of visual richness,' explains Bahar and Alice.

'The success of the composition lies in its continuity; the same paneling is carried through into the glazed cabinetry, creating a seamless dialogue between the interior and exterior of the joinery. These subtle repetitions are what give the kitchen its sense of longevity and quiet sophistication.'

Blend Different Storage Styles For Function and Character

One of the most effective details in this kitchen is the mix of storage styles, with closed cabinetry, glazed doors, and open shelving all implemented throughout the space. Not only does this create custom space for different kitchen items to live, either hidden or on display, but it also creates a more visually interesting design.

'Closed cabinetry conceals the more functional elements of daily life, while glazed cabinets provide an opportunity to display beautiful glassware, ceramics, and collected pieces. The contrast creates a sense of balance, ensuring the kitchen feels both highly functional and personal. It’s often these curated displays that bring character to a space and make it feel truly lived in,' they note.

'The hidden pantry was designed to absorb much of the visual noise that naturally accumulates in a hardworking kitchen. Housing small appliances, food storage, and everyday essentials behind full-height cabinetry allows the main kitchen to remain calm, uncluttered, and architectural in appearance.'

Carve Out Space For a Dedicated Dining Nook

Increasingly, homeowners are seeking dedicated dining spaces in their kitchens beyond the island, and in this family space, a nook with a spacious banquette ensured there was plenty of space for the whole family to gather, while also providing some extra storage.

'We wanted the dining experience to feel intimate and relaxed. In a room of this scale, placing a dining table in the centre would have interrupted the openness of the space. By creating a banquette, we were able to establish a more inviting and sociable corner while allowing the rest of the room to breathe,' Bahar and Alice recall, noting the materials were chosen to introduce 'softness, texture, and comfort' in keeping with the rest of the scheme.

'The storage beneath the banquette was designed in response to how the family lives. Our clients wanted a practical place to tuck away blankets, outdoor cushions, and everyday items that can quickly create visual clutter. Integrating storage into the seating allowed us to maximise every inch of available space without compromising comfort. The proportions were carefully determined by the seating height and joinery detailing, ensuring the solution felt both practical and beautifully resolved.'

Quick Tips

• Consider earth tones in place of standard neutrals for a warmer scheme
• Choose your island size based on proportion rather than standardized design rules
• Make your backsplash work harder to create a focal point
• Vary your storage styles for a more curated kitchen
• Make space for a seating area that enhances sociability

This kitchen proves you don't have to lean into expected features and styles just because your home has history. By blending classic design elements with modern sensibility, the space has been transformed into a kitchen expertly tailored to family life.

'Interestingly, the success of the kitchen lies in the fact that no single element demands attention. It was never about creating a statement piece. Instead, the focus was on achieving the right balance of proportion, craftsmanship, materiality, and light,' Bahar and Alice conclude.

'Every decision was made to support how the space feels rather than to create a visual spectacle. The result is a kitchen that feels elegant, welcoming, and timeless, quietly luxurious without ever becoming showy or pretentious.'

At Homes & Gardens, we believe a kitchen should work as beautifully as it looks. That’s the philosophy behind Dream Kitchens, our new series exploring the world’s most inspiring cook spaces. From clever layouts to the 'it' materials of 2026, we’re uncovering the design lessons tucked inside every home. Join us for an intimate look at the spaces that define modern living – and find the blueprints for your next big project.