Inside Emilia’s favourite kitchen: Heritage craftsmanship meets countryside charm

Emilia Wyllie
Jun 5
4 min read

Updated: 5 days ago

At Gardiner of England, every kitchen tells a story - not just of the home it’s created for, but of the hands and minds behind it. In our Northern Production Facility, one space has become a quiet favourite among our team. It’s a kitchen that captures the romance of the countryside, the refinement of British craftsmanship, and the kind of considered design that makes a home feel truly lived in.

Designer, Emilia, from Gardiner of England in a countryside kitchen 1909

We sat down with our Junior Designer, Emilia, to discuss her favourite kitchen – a 1909 Kitchens Shaker-style space, finished in paint-to-order Dove Grey and styled to reflect heritage charm with a modern sensibility.

"There’s a quiet elegance to this kitchen,” Emilia says. “It feels anchored in tradition, but every detail has been designed to elevate the everyday.”

A design that blends heritage and heart

A 1909 countryside kitchen with shaker doors in Dove grey — **1909 shaker kitchen in Dove Grey | Gardiner of England**

The kitchen in question is part of 1909 Kitchens – a brand celebrated for its exceptional British craftsmanship, authentic materials, and timeless appeal. Built to last a lifetime and handcrafted with traditional joinery methods, 1909 kitchens aren’t just built — they’re crafted. And in this particular space, the brand’s heritage is unmistakable.

The cabinetry, in 1909’s classic beaded Shaker style, is finished in a soft Dove Grey — a calming shade that suits both country homes and urban spaces alike. The finish is complemented by Cromwell pull handles and Chatsworth knob handles, both in a warm brass tone that adds a sophisticated contrast to the gentle grey.

"I love how the Dove Grey colour brings such a softness to the space,” says Emilia. “And the combination of the beaded door and the brass accents gives it such depth. It feels rich without being overwhelming.”

The kitchen isn’t just a showcase of cabinetry - it’s a fully styled space designed to inspire. A display cabinet, nestled into a corner of the kitchen, is finished in a complementary paint-to-order tone and styled with warm wood shelves and curated glassware. This lends the whole space a lived-in charm.

The craftsmanship behind the beauty

What makes a 1909 kitchen truly special is the level of craftsmanship involved. Each cabinet is built with traditional in-frame construction, where doors sit within a robust hardwood frame. The drawers are solid oak, dovetailed, and built to glide effortlessly. Every panel, hinge and corner reflects the attention to detail that British joinery is known for.

A 1909 countryside kitchen in dove grey - Gardiner of England

At Gardiner of England, our in-house production capabilities allow us to blend 1909’s fine craftsmanship with bespoke touches that reflect how each client lives. This kitchen is a perfect example: traditional at heart, yet tailored to feel fresh, functional and unmistakably personal.

Emilia’s top tips: Designing a countryside kitchen

While not every home has a rolling landscape out the window, Emilia believes a countryside-inspired kitchen can be created anywhere - from a London terrace to a suburban new build. Here are her favourite tips for recreating the look:

1. Start with soft, natural colours

“Think muted greys, creams, greens or blues. Paint-to-order cabinetry like this Dove Grey gives you that classic countryside feel without overpowering the space.”

Using a neutral base allows you to layer in character through textures, hardware and styling details.

2. Opt for in-frame or beaded shaker cabinetry

"The structure of your kitchen matters as much as the finish. The beaded Shaker door, like the one seen here, adds that extra level of detail and craftsmanship."

A beaded frame adds instant character — it feels thoughtful and considered.

3. Embrace wooden elements

Wood adds warmth to any space. In this kitchen, wooden shelves and warm-toned handles add balance to the cool grey.

“Look for solid wood worktops or open shelves to add that rustic charm. Even small touches, like wooden stools or cutting boards, can make a difference.”

4. Include a statement display area

“I love how the display cabinet in this kitchen gives personality to the space. It’s a chance to show your style - through ceramics, books, or collected pieces.”

Emilia recommends including at least one display moment, even if it’s a small open shelf or glazed cabinet.

5. Incorporate period features

Diamond lattice windows, traditional brass hardware, and panelled walls all contribute to the countryside aesthetic.

“If your home doesn’t already have these features, you can easily add touches - think tongue-and-groove panelling, classic tapware, or even a ceramic sink.”

A kitchen to be lived in

What sets this kitchen apart is how it balances practicality with romance. The island offers additional workspace and seating; integrated appliances keep the flow clean and modern; and every zone - from prep to display - has been planned with care.

“It’s the kind of kitchen that makes you want to bake something or sit with a cup of tea while the rain comes down outside,” Emilia says with a smile. “It’s elegant, yes, but also so warm and welcoming.”

In today’s world of fast design and mass manufacturing, Gardiner of England stands for something different. We believe in slowing down. In designing with purpose. And in creating spaces that last - in both form and feeling.

Visit the space yourself

This kitchen is permanently styled in our Northern Production Facility, where our designers, including Emilia, bring your ideas to life. It’s a working example of the 1909 collection and offers visitors a chance to explore the materials, colours and details up close.

“It’s so important to experience a kitchen in person,” Emilia adds. “You get to see how the light moves across the paint, how the handles feel in your hand - it’s those sensory details that matter.”

Want to create your own countryside-inspired kitchen?

Whether you’re dreaming of something similar or looking for a completely different aesthetic, our team at Gardiner of England is here to help. We only take on a limited number of projects per year, so we can give each design the time and care it deserves. Book an appointment with one of our designers and discover how we can create a kitchen that reflects your lifestyle, your taste, and your home.

View the 1909 Kitchens Collection

Book a 15 Min Quick Call or a 1 Hour Zoom/Teams call with one of our Designers:

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Visit our Kent-based showroom, nestled in the heart of Great Tong Farm, to view our kitchens for yourself:

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