THE BRIEF

The existing kitchen no longer met the needs of family life and lacked the character the homeowners wanted for their period property. A key objective was to reinstate the original fireplace as the focal point of the room by accommodating a traditional range cooker within the chimney breast.Alongside the aesthetic transformation, the project involved significant building works, including alterations to the chimney breast, electrical and plumbing upgrades, plastering and decoration. The homeowners wanted a single company capable of managing every aspect of the project, allowing them to continue their busy working lives without the stress of coordinating multiple contractors.Working closely with Kitchen of Winchester designer Mark Stickland, the Doyles developed a design that balanced traditional craftsmanship with practical modern features, creating a kitchen tailored specifically to the way they live.

THE DESIGN

The chosen kitchen was our Elegance Bampton In-Frame Natural Oak Shaker, crafted in beautiful natural oak and paired with a Lancaster Oak carcase featuring dovetail oak drawer boxes throughout.The warmth and texture of the timber perfectly complement the character of the Victorian property, creating a space that feels as though it has always belonged within the home. Traditional detailing is enhanced by Antique Pewter cup handles and knobs, while modern functionality is seamlessly integrated through carefully considered storage solutions and fitted appliances.A standout feature is the pocket-door dresser, inspired by the freestanding dressers that would traditionally have been found in homes of this era. Combined with bespoke open shelving and handcrafted details throughout, the design successfully bridges heritage styling with contemporary convenience.The cabinetry is finished with 30mm Olympus White honed quartz worktops, bringing a subtle contrast to the oak while providing a highly durable surface for everyday family life.

OVERCOMING THE CHALLENGES

As with many period properties, the project presented unique challenges.To accommodate the new range cooker within the original fireplace, the chimney breast required structural alterations, including raising the lintel and enlarging the opening. Additional support was installed to ensure the integrity of the structure, while a bespoke extraction solution was carefully integrated into the chimney breast and plastered seamlessly into the finished design.Further investigation revealed damp within the existing walls, requiring new plasterboard linings and associated remedial works. The ceiling was also replaced as part of the renovation.Despite the restricted access typical of a narrow Victorian terrace, our project management team coordinated all building, electrical, gas, plumbing, plastering and decorating works, ensuring the project progressed smoothly and efficiently.

THE INSTALLATION

Once the preparatory works were complete, our installation team meticulously brought the design to life.Working within a room where floors and walls were far from straight, every cabinet and feature required careful adjustment and precise craftsmanship. Bespoke carpentry played an important role throughout the project, from fitting shelving into awkward alcoves to creating discreet boxing for pipework while maintaining access to services.The result is a kitchen that feels entirely natural within the space, despite the complexities hidden behind the finished surfaces.

THE RESULT

More than a year after completion, the kitchen continues to serve as the heart of the Doyle family home.The combination of natural oak cabinetry, handcrafted details and thoughtful design has created a space that is both beautiful and highly functional. The restored fireplace and range cooker provide a striking focal point, while modern storage solutions ensure the kitchen works effortlessly for everyday family life.What was once simply a kitchen has become the centre of the home—a place where family life unfolds every day and where traditional character and contemporary living sit comfortably side by side.As Mr Doyle reflects:"The result is really wonderful, combining design and function brilliantly. A year on the quality of the building work, and of the kitchen and of the installation, continues to prove itself daily. The kitchen has become the focal point for family life."