Project Showcase: From Plain Grey to Warm Shaker Sophistication
New-build homes often come with neutral, functional kitchens that lack soul or style. This project in Hampshire started with just that — a typical cold grey colour scheme with flat features and little character.
The homeowner wanted a space that felt inviting, homely and refined — and we delivered exactly that, with a full style overhaul using replacement doors, textured details, and modern-traditional finishes.
Before: Typical New Build with Cold Tones
The original kitchen had:
Cold grey doors
Minimal styling or standout features
A functional layout but lacking any visual warmth or personality
It was a blank canvas — and our goal was to create something bespoke, textured, and emotionally warm.
After: Taupe, Kombu Green & Traditional Style Reimagined
This transformation combined multiple design layers to create a homely, high-end feel with modern functionality.
Key updates included:
Replacement shaker doors: We installed brand new shaker-style doors in a blend of taupe and kombu green for a fresh but timeless palette.
Boiler cabinet redesign: The original cupboard was replaced with a more stylish custom boiler housing, blending in with the new design while maintaining accessibility.
Tongue & groove joinery: End panels and a custom shelf above the tap were crafted using tongue and groove detailing, adding depth and a handcrafted feel.
Herringbone splashback tiles: Classic meets modern with a crisp herringbone tiling layout, giving energy and movement to the space.
Brick slip feature corner: A tactile addition, the brick slip wall brought rustic texture and warmth — ideal for softening modern interiors.
Antique gold hardware: Finished with matte gold handles, the kitchen took on a traditional tone while staying firmly in the modern day.
Design Notes: Balancing Modern with Heritage Influence
This kitchen shows how colour pairing, texture layering, and clever detailing can completely reshape the personality of a space.
The taupe and kombu green colour combination creates a calm yet grounded feel, while the antique gold accents bring just the right level of richness. This is a perfect example of a transitional kitchen style — marrying the warmth of tradition with sleek, modern convenience.
Project Location & Timing
📍 Location: Hampshire
🗓️ Installation Duration: 4 Days
🪵 Key Materials & Features:
– Shaker-style replacement doors (taupe and kombu green)
– Antique gold hardware
– Custom boiler housing & tongue and groove joinery
– Herringbone tiled splashback
– Brick slip corner feature
Considering a Kitchen Restyle Without the Full Renovation?
This project is perfect inspiration if you’re looking to:
Soften the coldness of a new-build kitchen
Add visual interest with shaker profiles and layered textures
Introduce a warmer, heritage-inspired palette
Replace doors but keep your existing layout and cabinets
Achieve a bespoke look with custom joinery and styling
Whether it’s adding just a splashback or undertaking a full door and surface replacement, we’ll guide you through it all.
Let’s Restyle Your Kitchen
We specialise in kitchen restyling for homeowners across Hampshire and nearby areas, combining contemporary techniques with classic design sensibilities.
