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A Stylish, Timeless Kitchen Design Built For Contemporary Life
There are some houses that tell stories through their walls; and this beautiful cottage in Stoneybridge near Belbroughton was one such home. It has been at least ten years since we originally designed and installed the client’s kitchen for this property; so it is wonderful to have had the opportunity to be asked to design the same space again. This second invitation to work on this kitchen design was a great compliment to the quality of craftsmanship we put into the original kitchen.
The bief:
- brighten a naturally darker, cottage-style room
- introduce an island without compromising flow
- retain statement appliances (American fridge-freezer and existing range cooker)
- create dedicated storage, a stepped-in pantry, and a fully updated utility
- keep the warmth and character of their previous oak shaker kitchen, but elevate it with something more refined
The result is a calm, light-filled in-frame kitchen that feels entirely in keeping with the cottage — yet beautifully updated for modern family living.
From a classic oak shaker kitchen to modern light elegant and in-frame
The original kitchen had been functional for the client’s needs, but was very dark and limited by low light levels as well as a large dining table which made the kitchen area very tight. The family has always loved the look of oak and the traditional feel of the original shaker style, however they were looking for an updated version of this look with a few key differences;
- More light
- Better use of available space for additional storage
- Additional worktop space
- A larger social island for four
- A modern “next step” in terms of design and functionality from the original shaker style kitchen.
A Soft Putty In-Frame Kitchen Filled With Light & Subtle Detail
We introduced a handcrafted in-frame kitchen, painted in a soft putty tone to complement the cottage architecture while dramatically brightening the room.
The transformation centred around:
- Tall cabinetry to maximise storage
- A stepped-in feature pantry with internal worktop and oak internals
- An island with breakfast bar seating for four
- Corian Calacatta Griege worktops flowing throughout
- Fluted glass cabinets for visual softness and light play
- A bespoke oak mantle above the existing range cooker
- A refreshed utility in the same cohesive style
Every line, junction, and detail was crafted to bring a sense of calm and refinement to a previously busy-feeling room.
Materials & Key Design Choices
Painted In-Frame Cabinetry
Painted in-Frame cabinetry is a classic style option for a cottage-inspired home; it has an element of craftsmanship about it, and will give you a solid, traditional feel to your kitchen.
The putty colour on this design gives you a warm tone but does not create too much contrast. It works well in conjunction with other features like the in frame doors which provide you with a quality, heritage & long-lasting feel.
These were also blended in with the client’s existing black appliances.
Corian Calacatta Griege worktops
One of the standout design elements of the kitchen renovation.
- Calacatta Griege has beautiful soft veining that creates a lift in the space and the seamless, hygienic and repairable nature of the worktop is ideal for a busy kitchen environment.
- The worktops have a lightly polished finish so when touched they are warm & tactile.
- The coved upstands along with the full height splash back behind the cooker provide the clients with a very functional area.
- The integrated sink run provides a clean uninterrupted line between the cooker & sink.
- The matching window sill & shaped drainer grooves provide the clients with a highly practical area for their everyday use.
- The one thing that has completely changed the way the light moves around this space is the choice of this material.
Corian – Calacatta Griege, 40mm
A premium worktop choice selected for durability, beauty and longevity.
- Light veining brings movement and luxury without overpowering the space
- The polished soft sheen reflects light, brightening the room naturally
- Hygienic, non-porous and repairable — perfect for families
- Heat-resistant and stain-resistant, ideal for busy cooking areas
Chamfered Edge Profile
A subtle, elegant detail that softens the worktop visually and feels refined to the touch.
Seamless Sink
Allows water to glide into the sink, creating a seamless, modern look.
Shaped Drainer Grooves
Cut directly into the Corian for functionality without the need for external accessories.
Full Worktop Run Through the L-Shape and Across the Island
Ensures complete material continuity — no joins breaking the flow of the room.
Matching Upstands and Window Sill
Adds a cohesive, highly considered finish and ties the whole room together.
Feature Pantry
A new stepped-in pantry created:
- exceptional storage
- a hidden worktop area for small appliances
- oak interior detailing for warmth
- deep internal drawers for organisation
A beautiful but highly functional piece.
Island With Seating
Designed to be the new heart of the kitchen:
- seating for four
- book shelving for recipe books
- deep drawers for everyday essentials
- generous worktop overhang for comfortable seating
Fluted Glass & Bespoke Oak Mantle
These touches created balance between tradition and modern design:
- fluted glass adds softness and texture
- internal lighting adds evening ambience
- the oak mantle anchors the range cooker and nods back to the former oak kitchen
Utility Room Update
Practicality elevated:
- matching Corian
- new under-mounted sink
- appliance housing
- clean, bright finishes carrying the theme through the home
Appliances
Range Cooker
A range cooker instantly becomes the heart of the kitchen – a practical centrepiece with real presence. At Matthew James Kitchens, we love how it anchors the design, offering generous oven space, precise heat control and a timeless focal point that suits both modern and classic schemes. It adds warmth, character and a premium feel that beautifully complements our bespoke craftsmanship
Built-in Extractor
A discrete extraction soluion; silent, and works in the background. Maintains the freshness of the kitchen area and does not break up the visual line and/or compete with the mantel.
Integrated Dishwasher
Completely hidden behind matching cabinets. Has quiet cycles, smart loading and new modern efficiency. Integrates perfectly with a clean and uninterrupted appearance.
Integrated Fridge/Freezer
Kept by client’s request – A bold black American style appliance. Now looks beautiful against the softer cabinet finishes and lighter countertop finishes.
Wine Cooler
Adds convenient access to chilled drinks and sits neatly within the cabinetry run, enhancing both lifestyle and layout.
Challenges & Solutions
Challenge: A Dark Room with Limited Natural Light
The existing kitchen absorbed light rather than reflecting it.
Solution:
Light putty cabinetry, reflective Corian surfaces, fluted glass and carefully positioned under-cabinet lighting created a bright, open feel—even on cloudy days.
Challenge: Introducing an Island Without Overcrowding
The room layout was tight with the old table.
Solution:
We redesigned the flow entirely, creating a slimmer, longer island sized specifically for movement and seating. The island now feels completely natural to the space.
Challenge: Retaining Large Appliances
The American fridge and large range cooker needed to stay.
Solution:
We framed each appliance with sympathetic cabinetry, turning them into intentional focal points rather than compromises.
The Final Result – A Cottage Kitchen Reborn
There can be no doubt about the transformation of this kitchen.
What previously had been an old oak heavy kitchen has become a light, elegant, timeless kitchen with the look of in-frame but it still looks like the cottage it is part of.
The Clients are now enjoying:
- A beautiful kitchen that is well lit & inviting
- A family social gathering island
- Excellent storage in the bespoke pantry & tall cabinetry
- A calming color scheme that creates feelings of serenity and upliftment
- Durable surfaces to withstand the day to day demands of a kitchen
- A new, coordinated utility area completes the home
Perhaps most importantly, the kitchen functions as the homeowners would like – combining elements of tradition, craftsmanship, and practicality in one refined, hand crafted space.
Why Choose Matthew James Kitchens
We were responsible for ensuring that from the initial drawings through the final fit-out, all elements including cabinetry, appliances, finishes and on-site trade work would result in a high quality finish. Each detail; scribes, shadows, gaps and mitered joints were planned carefully so the rooms are built with a craftsman’s attention to detail as opposed to merely being constructed.
If you’d like us to assess your current space to see if it could be completed at an equal level of functionality and finish, we’d love to assist you in doing so – please stop by one of our two Design Centers (Birmingham & Bromsgrove) to begin your design process.
Looking for a bespoke kitchen designer in Worcestershire? You’re in the right place.
A Personal Journey with Matthew James
At Matthew James Kitchens, we've been at the heart of homes for generations, watching kitchen trends evolve while staying true to timeless craftsmanship. As a family-run business deeply rooted in our community, we understand that your kitchen is more than just a room—it's the soul of your home.
- Award-winning designs featured in Beautiful Kitchens magazine
- Over two decades of experience
- Bespoke kitchen designs tailored to individual tastes and lifestyles
- Wide range of styles
- Fully equipped showroom
- Finance options
Have a question?
As a family-run business that values transparency, we understand the importance of timing. Every kitchen is unique, just like the families we serve. Typically, from initial design to the final polished surface, a bespoke kitchen can take anywhere typically from 3 - 4 weeks to 6 weeks if a project is incredibly complex. But rest assured, we'll work closely with you to ensure the process fits seamlessly into your life.
This is where our expertise truly shines. There's no one-size-fits-all answer, as each home and homeowner has different needs. We take pride in sitting down with you, perhaps over a cup of tea in our showroom, to understand how you live, cook, and entertain. Whether it's a classic work triangle or a more modern zoned approach, we'll craft a layout that's as functional as it is beautiful
This is a question we get asked all the time. In our experience, clever storage solutions are the unsung heroes of a well-designed kitchen. From pull-out pantries to bespoke corner units, we have a myriad of tricks up our sleeves to ensure every inch of your kitchen works hard. After all, a clutter-free kitchen is a joy to cook in, whether you're whipping up a quick weekday dinner or hosting a grand Sunday roast for the family.
