The Rural Estate
The Brief
To create a kitchen, pantry, bootroom and laundry for a heritage Sussex Country Estate forming part of a whole house restoration. In partnership with Lisa Bradburn Interior Design and Gould Baxter Architects we were entrusted to create the cabinetry on this special project. Each element was conceived as a piece of freestanding furniture, carefully considered to sit harmoniously within the historic fabric of the house, while being thoughtfully crafted to support the practical demands of modern family living.
Elements – Kitchen
The 4.2-metre oak island sits confidently at the centre of the room, making full use of the generous proportions of this long, elegant space. Framed by views across the courtyard garden and the land beyond, it offers a natural place to pause and enjoy a morning coffee.
The layout has been carefully considered, creating a sense of rhythm and order throughout. Tall glazed cupboards form a focal point, while a discreetly integrated secret door adds a layer of intrigue. Generous crockery storage is paired with a dedicated home for everyday appliances, finished internally in practical yet luxurious stone.
The sink and cooking elevations are aligned with the windows, bringing balance and symmetry to the room, with the range cooker positioned as a central feature. Integrated refrigeration is seamlessly housed within the cabinetry, ensuring the family’s daily essentials remain close at hand, supported by a walk-in pantry adjoining the kitchen.
Pantry
The pantry is an essential feature of this rural country estate, providing ample long-term storage. It houses an additional full-height fridge and freezer, making it the perfect support to the kitchen when the house is full of guests. With solid oak shelving, stone surfaces, and subtle bespoke lighting, it is as beautiful as it is practical. This well-stocked pantry complements the sociable kitchen space, offering both function and charm in equal measure.
Bootroom
The bootroom serves as the entrance to the country estate from the grounds and is not only serviceable and hardworking, but breathtakingly beautiful. In blush, it mirrors the English roses that grow in the formal gardens outside. As the home has a laundry, this is a dedicated space for coats, wellies, and the extra layers that country pursuits demand. With a generous sink, it is the perfect place to prepare vegetables from the estate’s kitchen garden, as well as ample space to arrange flowers.
Laundry
The laundry cabinets and linen storage are located on the first floor of the property for absolute ease and convenience, discreetly housing the washing machine and tumble dryer. Linen can be laundered, dried, and stored in the adjacent cupboards, making this practical addition both efficient and elegant. It further supports the home during busy times, when the estate is full of family or guests.
Finishes
Cabinetry: Middleton Country Cabinetry
Counter tops: Carrara Marble
Colour Palette: Middleton Buff & Smoked Oak
Ironmongery: Burnished Brass
