ONE ROOM RENOVATIONS
Practicality and sustainable choices were the priorities in this brilliant update
Kitty Cooper has lived in this four-bedroom house in Essex for 40 years and raised her children here. Built in the 1930s, it has lots of original features including stained-glass windows and Crittall frames at the front
Bfore
‘The kitchen was pretty but cluttered and not very practical. The units, which were around 50 years old, were a Shaker style with lots of grooves and handles’
Why did you decide that the kitchen needed an update?
It was a long-awaited refurbishment that was kickstarted when cracks appeared in the walls caused by the extension. I replaced several windows and due to water leaks, all the render and plaster had to be repaired, so I realised the time had come – the kitchen had to go. I waited throughout lockdown for the best builder for the job, Setform Projects.
What were your priorities?
I wanted plain flat surfaces and a practical space, which meant avoiding high units I couldn’t reach and corner cupboards where things get lost at the back. In an effort to be as sustainable as possible, I was looking for a design that would last, with as little plastic as I could get away with. Pluck Kitchens was the perfect fit; its kitchens are made from beautiful laminated wood in gorgeous colours – I instantly fell for Ruskin Blossom. I also love the ‘secret’ hidden cutlery drawers and larder that opens to reveal a beautiful blue interior.
You’ve redesigned the whole layout…
Yes, we bricked up a window to give a better run to the space and gained light from the new windows. These, and the Pluck cabinets were the starting points. I wanted to keep my farmhouse kitchen table, so spent hours moving around little pieces of paper to choose the best design for the space. Working out the measurements was quite challenging as I hadn’t done this before, but my builder and Pluck were very helpful.
How did you choose your appliances?
I went for an integrated washer/tumble dryer to save space and a Fisher & Paykel drawer dishwasher so I could use the top half when I’m on my own and both drawers for larger gatherings. I chose an Aga range cooker for a similar reason – I can use the small oven for me or two when necessary. I w
