Historic Raynham Hall Kitchen Transformed with Bold Colors

A historic kitchen in Raynham Hall has been transformed into a modern family space while preserving its architectural integrity. This Grade I listed property, located in England, required a careful design balance that honors its storied past while accommodating contemporary living.

The project was led by Francesca Froggatt, head kitchen designer at deVOL Kitchens, who collaborated closely with homeowners Octavia and Tom. The kitchen, previously a function room, needed a complete redesign. However, it faced significant restrictions due to its historic status, which mandated that many original features remain untouched.

Preserving History While Modernizing Functionality

According to Froggatt, “Raynham Hall is a Grade I listed house of national historic importance, meaning many interiors have remained largely unchanged since the 1700s.” The design team focused on restoring the original green wall paint, believed to be the house’s original color. This careful restoration was undertaken in partnership with the expert team at Edward Bulmer Paint to ensure historical accuracy.

The choice of colors was crucial in creating a harmonious space. The deep green walls serve as a powerful backdrop, allowing the cabinetry painted in deVOL’s Refectory Red to stand out. This deep red adds warmth and presence without clashing with the rich historical decoration. Froggatt notes, “The combination feels both bold and harmonious, bridging the old and the new in a way that feels completely natural.”

Designing for Modern Family Life

The kitchen’s layout also had to respect the building’s restrictions. Every piece of cabinetry was designed to sit freely within the room without disturbing the historic fabric. “Because the house is listed, we could not fix or attach anything to the original woodwork or stone,” Froggatt explains. This required a creative approach to kitchen organization, as appliances and cabinetry had to be strategically placed.

To maintain a low profile, the couple decided to keep their refrigerator and freezer in an adjoining pantry. This choice allowed the main kitchen to remain unobtrusive, complementing the room’s ornate details like gilded carvings and expansive windows. “The result is a layout that feels intentionally minimal and elegant,” says Froggatt.

The design further prioritizes functionality while preserving the kitchen’s welcoming atmosphere. By utilizing full-height cabinetry only where necessary, the team ensured that the kitchen remains inviting. The design emphasizes freestanding furniture and a round dining table surrounded by antique chairs, contributing to a cozy, curated feel.

Lighting played a pivotal role in creating an inviting environment. Froggatt explains, “By introducing warm tones and beautiful lighting, we helped bring the scale down and make it feel more intimate.” The use of wall sconces and a central fixture above the island enhances the overall ambiance.

This kitchen exemplifies how even the boldest color combinations can harmonize within a historic context. By choosing the right cabinetry and decor, the design team has created a space that is both functional for modern family life and respectful of Raynham Hall’s historical significance.