U.S. homeowners increasingly are looking across the pond for kitchen design inspiration. It seems we crave the character, charm, and practicality of a classic English kitchen (we may have Downton Abbey and other period dramas to thank for fueling our fascination). While today’s timeless renditions borrow a few nostalgic elements from the downstairs Georgian workspaces of the past, they also reflect modern tastes and life. Here are five up-to-date hallmarks of an authentic English kitchen.
Unfitted or Semi-Fitted Design
An unfitted kitchen features a mix of freestanding furniture pieces, rather than built-in, permanently affixed cabinetry. The result is an uncontrived, evolved-over-time aesthetic. A standalone hutch or step-back cupboard—combined perhaps with open shelves, a wall-mounted plate rack, or a hanging pot rack—keeps everyday items within easy reach. A farmhouse table often takes the place of an island or, alternatively, the island has a furniture look with open storage below. To strike a good balance, opt for a semi-fitted approach that blends freestanding pieces with some built-ins (flanking the stove, perhaps).
Simple Cabinetry Style
When built-in cabinetry is used, the look is kept simple. Shaker-style cabinet doors often combine with streamlined, slab-style top drawers. Whatever the look, there’s an emphasis on bespoke, bench-made quality and craftsmanship. Consider adding a skirted cabinet or sink, a throwback look that heightens the cozy-cottage vibe.
Soulful Color Palette
English kitchens tend to feature muddy, desaturated colors inspired by nature. Warm neutrals and organic shades of sage, sky blue, and dusty rose are familiar refrains, although deeper versions of these colors are gaining traction. These calming hues can provide the perfect backdrop for displaying vintage art and meaningful collections.
Authentic Materials
Natural materials and elements that develop a rich patina over time are the preferred building blocks of traditional English kitchens. Often, wood-stained cabinetry, namely walnut or oak, is mixed with painted units. Marble countertops, stone or wood floors, and unlacquered brass cabinet hardware add timeless appeal.
Classic Range with Mantel
A high-performance range with traditional styling generally serves as the centerpiece of an English kitchen. Above the range, a simple mantel—rather than a showy hood—combines form and function. The wide shelf, which can be used for display, is mounted on a chimney breast (although corbels can be added for extra charm). This restrained approach adds architectural interest that borrows from the past, while it conceals present-day exhaust technology.
Today’s well-considered English kitchen is a comfortable, welcoming space for cooking, socializing, and family life. It conveys both a sense of homey warmth and quiet luxury—a potent combination that resonates with homeowners both here and abroad. Bring your Anglophile clients into Friedman’s, where our seasoned team can help deliver the English sensibility they desire