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A Kitchen Makeover With Martin & Shirlie Kemp

This kitchen makeover with Martin and Shirlie Kemp embodies classic charm thanks to the muted tones and period details that feature in their new cooking space. Reflecting the Victorian character of their property, the celebrity couple wanted their design to have a country aesthetic that would stand the test of time while making it fit for modern living and entertaining. Using a muted, porcelain tone and solid wood shaker-style, their room is open, inviting and filled with that rural appeal they hoped to achieve. Meanwhile, state-of-the-art equipment and an expansive island ensure family dining and hosting is made simple. Discover how Howdens helped them achieve this classic look and what products brought this kitchen makeover to life.

Experienced renovators

Martin and Shirlie are quite the experts when it comes to remodelling a home - their latest project is a Victorian property in Hertfordshire.

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Experienced renovators

From the first viewing, it was quite clear that the Victorian home where Martin and Shirlie live had plenty of potential albeit with some extensive work needed for the roof, a derelict greenhouse to tear down, and some suspected asbestos to tackle. With so much to think about, the couple turned to Howdens for help when planning their new cooking space as they knew we had the quality products they needed, and a reputation for classic shaker designs that would achieve a long-lasting fit and premium design aesthetic.
Classically curated

The couple wanted to stay true to their house's period charm while capturing a rural aesthetic that offered respite from their busy work schedules.

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Classically curated

Extending the character of their period home was the primary focus for their cooking space, so any opportunity to reintroduce classic features needed to be utilised. Colour was another key element. Porcelain cupboards were chosen to introduce classic country shades, with warm base notes that kept the space feeling homely after a long day at the studio. The neutral shade also possesses a timeless quality – flexible enough to be restyled in the future and setting an inviting backdrop to frequent family dining that the couple prioritise in their busy schedules.

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Decorative details

Elmbridge was the couple's first choice thanks to its 22mm-thick, solid-wood build, and the beaded detail that pays homage to classic shaker style.

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Island life

Family is a big priority for Martin and Shirlie, so an island format was a must-have to bring everyone together in one space.

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Boldly bespoke

When it came to surfaces, the Kemps chose a made-to-measure quartz counter for a lasting feature that was one of a kind.

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Stately sinks

Recreating a classic cleaning area, the couple selected a Belfast sink made from non-porous, fired clay to continue the heritage feel.

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Functional fizz

With a passion for entertaining, the pair included two wine fridges placed side-by-side and a bespoke rack to store their favourite tipples in easy reach.

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Brass embellishments

Mixing latches, knobs, and handles from our Highborne collection, Martin and Shirlie created an eclectic look with aged brass accessories.

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Timber accessories

Designed from the inside out, the couple chose timber drawer inserts to keep internal areas tidy while continuing the country aesthetic.

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Country footing

The wood grain detail of their laminate floor adds classic charm while offering the easy-clean benefits of manmade materials.

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Classic cooking

The couple enjoys throwing dinner parties, so they selected a Rangemaster device to ensure there was plenty of room to cook up a feast.

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Mantle masking

The mantle above their cooking zone is a staple within classic interiors, which can also disguise integrated extraction from view for a cleaner look.

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Period plinths

With an eye for detail, Martin and Shirlie chose to finish their units with decorative plinths to re-create the look of handcrafted furniture.

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Parlour plan

For a floorplan that was made for modern living, the couple separated the utility from their cooking space to create a dedicated zone for chores.

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