The Downlands Farmhouse, Ditchling
The Brief
To create a family kitchen in this stunning Downlands farmhouse with distinct areas for cooking and dining with engagement to the stunning formal gardens and South Downs. With the beautiful vaulted farmhouse ceiling it was important that the cabinetry was kept low level to allow the beams to work as a feature with tall cabinetry taking full advance of the generous ceiling heights.
Elements
The design of this kitchen is focused on function and process. With the full height pair of fridges, bi-folding breakfast cupboard and pantry by the farmhouse dining table it allows for multiple family members to use the space at the same time, and teenagers to grab breakfast whilst parents can be prepping for the day at the island. Flow around the island and kitchen was key in the space so it can function for multiple members of the family.
The island provides some relaxing, perching space to chat whilst the cook is hard at work. On the cook’s side the island is a clear working space within easy reach of the pair of ovens and hob. The family are keen baker’s and the pair of under counter ovens provide a precise, constant cooking temperature. The hob is generous and easily within reach of dedicated pan and utensil storage. The island drawers provide ample practical storage with a home for all the bakers tools.
The sink elevation with gentle oak shelf above provides a generous space to work whilst out of sight from the dining and relaxing area of the kitchen. The Oak detailed open book shelf is a nod to the Oak details within the space and completes the ‘suite’ of kitchen cabinetry.
Engagement with the outside was very important to our clients as the Farmhouse has beautiful views across the gardens which are open to the public at times. The soft Mylands of London, Myrtle Green hues compliment the outdoors and the Farmhouse’s setting. With smoked Oak details and Bianco Eclipse countertops it’s a restful atmosphere with natural colours and materials.
Finishes
Cabinetry: Middleton Country Cabinetry
Counter tops: Bianco Eclipse
Colour Palette: Mylands Myrtle Green
Ironmongery: Burnished Brass
