A classic English country kitchen represents warmth, homeliness and traditional values, and they are increasingly sought after by city and country residents alike. Those living in bustling cities and busy towns long for a taste of the country feeling, while country residents love to integrate the classic elements into homes that already suit that way of living.
A classic English country kitchen radiates warmth and elegance. With natural materials, warm woods and organic textures, it becomes a work of craftsmanship with a wholesome atmosphere. The style can be adapted to both modern and traditional homes and creates a timeless design appeal.
The Country Kitchen at a Glance
A classic English country kitchen is built around natural materials, warm timber and organic texture rather than a single fixed look. The hallmarks are hard-wearing surfaces such as hardwood, stone or butcher’s block worktops, apron-front sinks, crafted curves, glazed door fronts and a relaxed, informal atmosphere. Colours have moved well beyond the traditional creams and pale greens, with light greys, reds and brilliant whites all working. It suits period homes and new builds alike, and modern integrated appliances sit comfortably within it. At Handmade Kitchen Company we design and hand-build country kitchens to suit the room.
Welcoming
Though not to everyone’s taste, a classic English country kitchen will always feel welcoming and homely. That warm ambience is a quality which brings families and friends together, and the relaxed, informal atmosphere makes a beautiful setting for family meals and get-togethers.
Stylish and timeless
Old-fashioned ideas of the classic English country kitchen tend to involve dated patterns and chipped pale green or yellow paint. In reality, they are sophisticated, elegant and stylish. Natural woods, crafted curves and elegant glazed door fronts create a characterful charm that is full of personality, while wooden beams and antique furniture complement the surrounding features and give the room its rustic appeal.
Variable options
Not all classic English country kitchens are the same. In fact the design options are wide and varied. Yellow, cream and pale greens have long been associated with the style, but newer choices are being adopted, and the range of colours and textures is now endless. Light greys, reds and brilliant whites all bring a modern twist to a classic country kitchen.
The shape and size of your room is no longer a problem either, because a country kitchen can be crafted and designed to fit your needs and requirements. There is a choice of materials, integrated appliances and different kitchen doors which can be successfully blended together.
Here at Handmade Kitchen Company, we can design your classic English country kitchen to suit you. Whether you want elegant curves, vertical grooves, rustic edges or a flowing kitchen island, we can craft your kitchen to be truly classic or to carry a modern twist. A country kitchen doesn’t need dated appliances to set the theme: both modern and traditional kitchens can be fully integrated with the latest appliances. From American-style fridge freezers to larders, warming drawers, lighting, tiles, flooring and furniture, your kitchen can be filled with modern technology while retaining its rustic country feel.
Functional and durable
As well as looking beautiful, classic country kitchens are functional and durable. The style uses hard-wearing materials such as hardwood, stone or butcher’s block worktops and apron-front sinks. That durability is what makes it a reliable and sophisticated choice for so many of our clients.
Country Kitchen FAQs
What makes a kitchen an English country kitchen?
Natural materials and a relaxed, informal feel rather than a strict set of rules. Expect warm timber, hard-wearing worktops in hardwood, stone or butcher’s block, an apron-front sink, glazed cabinet fronts and details such as crafted curves or exposed beams.
Do country kitchens have to be cream or green?
Not at all. Cream, yellow and pale green are the traditional associations, but light greys, deep reds and brilliant whites all work and give the style a more contemporary feel while keeping its warmth.
Can you have a country kitchen in a modern house?
Yes. The style adapts well to both period and modern homes, because it is defined by materials and atmosphere rather than by the age of the building. Pairing natural timber with contemporary worktops and lighting works particularly well in a newer property.
Can a country kitchen have modern appliances?
Absolutely, and most do. Modern appliances can be fully integrated behind cabinetry so the rustic character is retained, and features such as larders and warming drawers sit very naturally within the style.
Where does Handmade Kitchen Company design country kitchens?
We design, hand-build and hand-paint bespoke country kitchens from our workshop in Hertfordshire, for clients across Essex, Hertfordshire and North London.
For a related look, see our guides to the traditional Shaker kitchen and to solid wood kitchens.
Whether traditional or with a modern twist, a classic English country kitchen will make you feel right at home. If you would like to know more about our country kitchens or any of our other styles, then please do not hesitate to contact us. You can also visit our showroom to view our kitchens in a fully functioning display.
