DESIGN DETAILS – Victorian Rectory, Kent

The project is a Victorian property built in 1869 with a rich and storied past. The current owners are only the fourth custodians of this historic home, which is thought to have once served as a rectory or been linked to the clergy. Nestled in a peaceful rural setting in Kent, this is a real unicorn house that just doesn’t come along very often. The property boasts 21 acres of surrounding land, offering a beautifully immersive country feel while still benefitting from excellent transport links into London.

The clients have now lived in the house for four years and initially felt the renovation would be too extensive to undertake. However, over time, the house has evolved naturally, with each phase of work thoughtfully considered and sympathetic to the original structure. One of the key elements in this latest stage of renovation has been rethinking the flow of the kitchen and dining spaces.

Originally, the kitchen occupied what is now the snug, with the scullery next door. That entire area has been repurposed, and the new kitchen now sits within the former dining room, allowing the heart of the home to move into a lighter, more centrally positioned space. The dining room has now moved to the old kitchen area. The new layout strikes a balance between connection and separation: the kitchen and dining room are adjacent but still defined, and a carefully curated paint scheme links the two rooms while celebrating their individuality.

The clients spent a long time researching kitchen companies, but Humphrey Munson stood out thanks to the bespoke feel of the projects, particularly the beautifully executed banquette seating examples – even though that was something that couldn’t be achieved here – it showed them the ingenuity and expert craftsmanship they were seeking. The design was seen as a perfect fit for the house: elegant, timeless and respectful of its heritage while still bringing the space firmly into the modern day. The kitchen now feels effortlessly integrated into the wider house, both in terms of its aesthetic and functionality.

Portobello oak cabinetry and considered colour mirroring create warmth and continuity, while bespoke design touches – like the open shelving added at the design team’s suggestion – bring interest, practicality, and atmosphere, especially when accent lighting is used in the evening.

The kitchen is now the natural hub of the home. Everything has a place, and the layout is designed for ease of use: “You can just spin around – get a knife, chop, and the bin is right there,” the client explained. “It’s so well thought through.” One element originally omitted from the plans – the CUBE boiling water tap – was later added with help from the design team at HM, and the clients happily describe the kitchen design as “flawless”.

The AGA was a considered decision. The clients have had AGAs for over a decade and loved the traditional cooking experience, but they also wanted the flexibility of modern functionality. The chosen model combines the best of both: a traditional presence with highly responsive ovens and a gas hob. Similarly, the Sub-Zero fridge and freezer were selected for their outstanding quality: “We’re spending a lot and not planning to do this again, so we’re getting the best we can,” the client said.

The window seat, bar stools, and narrow bench seating all contribute to a space that works for both everyday use and entertaining. The bar area features a Sub-Zero tall wine storage unit open shelving, and a Fisher & Paykel CoolDrawer – all perfect for easy, informal hosting. The bar also adds a subtle sense of occasion, with a soft reflective finish that mirrors the adjacent antique mirror splashback.

The bespoke window seat was custom designed, manufactured and installed by Humphrey Munson, upholstered in durable and low maintenance Perennials for a practical and elegant finish. These small but impactful choices, quietly elevate the overall design with a layer of finesse and attention to detail otherwise not seen in residential projects.

The pantry is another standout feature of the project. Originally existing but in need of reworking, it has been cleverly redesigned by the HM design team. A bulkhead covering the stairs to the cellar was neatly hidden, and a reduced depth step makes the space more usable. The moody colour palette and stocked shelves feel luxurious yet practical. Details such as continuing the hallway wall colour as the ceiling finish in the pantry create a natural design flow through the house. The client’s favourite space? The pantry. “It’s just so much better than before and so enjoyable to use now,” they said.

Portobello oak cabinetry was chosen to reflect the natural surroundings and link the interiors with the lush, tree-filled landscape outside. A Crucial Trading rug with olive trim adds warmth and texture. Paint choices throughout the project help define spaces while maintaining cohesion across the home.

This project is a true celebration of heritage and considered modern living. The kitchen and pantry are now woven into the main fabric of the house and connected. Every detail, from the cabinetry to the appliances, has been chosen to support how the clients live and entertain, making this project a true reflection of timeless and thoughtful design.

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Images – Paul Craig