Oak Lodge, Norfolk

The beautiful Oak Lodge project in Norfolk has undergone a large scale renovation with Humphrey Munson commissioned to design, manufacture and install the kitchen and boot room. Access to the kitchen is from either the formal front door entrance, or more typically through the back door and via the boot room which was why it was so important to the clients to use the same cabinetry throughout. This space was all about creating a relaxed environment that the clients could enjoy with family on an everyday basis and friends and extended family at weekends.

With the addition of a stunning orangery to the rear of the home that opens onto the terrace, garden and pool area, the homeowners have created a breathtaking space that really captures the balance of a historic Edwardian home with all the modern conveniences we have come to know and love (underfloor heating being top of the list). The orangery has been designed and built by Westbury Garden Rooms and has a perfect mix of timber, glass and masonry together with a stunning glazed lantern ensuring the space feels light and airy throughout the year.

The focal point in the space is the false chimney, flanked on either side by tall cupboards – to the left is crockery storage either side of a Miele combi-steam oven and warming drawer, to the right is the column refrigerator integrated behind cabinetry doors. The Lacanche Chalonnais range cooker is finished in stainless steel with polished nickel trim. The hob consists of 4 gas burners, the simmer plate (perfect for a Sunday lunch) and the electric plancha (great for a cooked breakfast). Open chimney niches provide instant access to everyday condiments and herbs and spices.

The island acts as the main prep area with an undermounted prep sink and plenty of worktop space for spreading out while you’re preparing meals for just two or perhaps for twenty. The integrated Miele dishwasher and integrated Eurocargo bin are located on the island so clearing away dishes after meals is quick and easy. Seating on the island provides space for the children to have their breakfast, and for friends to perch at weekend get-togethers while the hosts are cooking.

The breakfast cupboard, finished in H|M’s bespoke Portobello oak, is positioned handily to serve the dining area within the orangery. Countertop space provides a prep area for making drinks and simple breakfasts like cereal and toast, with an integrated under-counter refrigerator located below to provide easy access to milk, butter and juice. Shelving above provides space for storing teas, coffees, and crockery and glassware.

The main sink run is along from the cooking run and has a large smart divide Kohler deerfield sink with plenty more countertop space for baking. Heavy countertop appliances like the kitchen aid can stay out on this worktop which is positioned opposite a large pantry cupboard. This pantry cupboard was designed around an existing immoveable chimney so some areas have reduced depth due to this restriction.

Overall the impression of this kitchen as you walk is how light and airy it feels – there is an understated quietness to this kitchen and dining area which is really calming. The simplicity of the Nickleby cabinetry design together with the natural feel of the Portobello dark oak accent wood, the singular colour palette (Brolly Blue) and satin nickel hardware throughout creates a classic English look that is endlessly appealing.