How We Embrace Warmth and Comfort Through Design: A Bespoke Kitchen and Garden Room
At Shaker & May, we believe the heart of every home lies in its kitchen—a space where the family gathers, meals are shared, and memories are made. In one of our latest design projects, we’ve brought to life two distinct yet harmonious spaces: a cosy garden room and a warm, moody kitchen. Each room is thoughtfully crafted to feel both homely and elegant, with a focus on comfort, style, and everyday practicality.
1. A Light, Airy Garden Room with Rustic Charm
The first stop in this home is the serene, light-filled garden room, a beautifully functional space designed to make everyday tasks feel effortless. This room features soft, neutral cabinetry and tongue and groove panelling that adds texture and a subtle traditional charm. The space feels fresh and open, with the neutral palette creating an inviting atmosphere perfect for family life. One standout feature here is the herringbone brick floor, which brings warmth and rustic character into the room. Its earthy tones perfectly complement the calm, neutral surroundings, grounding the space in a sense of understated elegance. Brass fixtures, including the tap and cabinet handles, provide subtle touches of luxury, while the custom storage solutions ensure that everything has its place, making this room both beautiful and practical. This garden room’s charm lies in its simplicity and homeliness—a welcoming space for daily routines, whether folding laundry, organizing essentials, or enjoying a quiet moment with a cup of coffee. The wooden bench seat and woven baskets offer practicality with a touch of warmth, and even the family pet has found its favourite spot here!
2. The Cozy Heart of the Home: A Moody, Inviting Kitchen
Moving into the kitchen, we step into a world of warmth, comfort, and timeless elegance. While dark kitchens are often seen as dramatic or formal, this bespoke design redefines the genre, creating a cosy and inviting space that feels like the true heart of the home. The rich, deep tones of the bone-black cabinetry instantly envelop you in a sense of warmth and intimacy. The matte finish on the cabinets exudes sophistication, but it’s the way this kitchen combines style with homeliness that makes it truly special. Rather than feeling austere, the dark palette invites you to settle in, making the kitchen feel as comforting as it is luxurious. The brass accents—from the sleek cabinet handles to the beautifully crafted tap—add a touch of golden warmth, catching the light in just the right way to soften the moody tones. Paired with the quartz countertops, these elements create a perfect balance of luxury and cosiness. The countertops provide a soft, light contrast, preventing the space from feeling too heavy and reflecting the natural light that pours in from the windows. A standout feature is the kitchen’s exposed wooden beams, which add texture and a rustic element that brings the entire space back to its roots. These beams, give the room a sense of history and character. They serve as a reminder that this kitchen isn’t just for show—it’s a space meant to be lived in, where stories are shared over a home-cooked meal. The large central island anchors the room, offering a place for gathering, whether it’s to prepare food, share a glass of wine, or simply enjoy each other’s company. It’s easy to imagine this kitchen bustling with family activity, the smell of a Sunday roast in the oven, or warm bread on the counter. The design isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about creating a space where people feel at home.
Crafting Cozy Spaces with Bespoke Design
This project beautifully demonstrates the importance of warmth and homeliness in kitchen design. Whether it’s the light, rustic utility room or the richly moody kitchen, every element is crafted to feel welcoming and lived-in. At Shaker & May, we understand that a kitchen is more than just a room—it’s where life happens. That’s why we design bespoke kitchens that are not only visually stunning but also functional and deeply personal. Whether you’re looking for cosy charm or understated luxury, we’ll work with you to create a kitchen that truly feels like home.