Nature inspires us everywhere. From our home interiors to the clothes we wear, the food we eat, and how we behave. The natural world has proven to calm our busy minds, inspire a sense of peace, and pay more attention to the great outdoors in a world where technology is all-encompassing.
We crave spaces that connect us with nature, fostering a sense of tranquillity and well-being, so why wouldn’t we choose a nature-inspired kitchen design that offers a refreshing retreat, bringing the serenity of the outdoors into the heart of our homes?
There are multiple ways of introducing nature into handmade kitchen design. And Scandinavian kitchen design has been embracing this aesthetic and feel for decades. But how can we bring the great outdoors in?
Embrace natural light. It’s a key element in biophilic design. Floor-to-ceiling windows and skylights will allow sunlight to stream in, illuminating the kitchen and creating a bright, airy atmosphere. Natural light enhances the ambience and promotes a sense of connection with nature.
We collaborated with Simon Moray Jones Architects on the handmade kitchen design for our Rectory Kitchen in Bath. The design incorporated a large glazed wall and a ceiling lantern, resulting in a fresh and airy shell for the open-plan kitchen and dining space. The outstanding architectural design allowed the stunning countryside views to become the focal point of the kitchen, and maintaining this tranquil ambience became essential to the client. We carefully positioned workstations and appliances to continually bring the outside in while providing a practical space for the family to cook and entertain.
Combining natural materials in contemporary kitchen design can also evoke that sense of beauty from the natural world. Wood, with its warmth and texture, is a popular choice for cabinets, countertops, and flooring. Stone, such as granite or marble, adds a touch of elegance and durability. Natural fibres like bamboo or jute can be used for accents, creating a rustic or bohemian feel.
For our Richlite Kitchen project, we designed a sensational kitchen island, which became the crux of the design. A central focus of the handmade kitchen design, it was created from a single section of oak. The natural grain was very prominent, so we allowed it to shine along the entire length. We incorporated exposed finger joint detail, filled the naturally occurring cracks in the timber with resin, and held them with feature hand-cut brass ties to further celebrate this natural façade.
Introducing greenery will also bring life and freshness into our contemporary kitchens. Potted herbs, indoor plants, or vertical garden walls create a vibrant and inviting space. Fresh herbs not only add visual appeal but also provide culinary delights.
For our Copper Kitchen in Somerset, we designed a nature-inspired kitchen. We used untreated copper, solid walnut and oak to create a truly unique kitchen. One key element of the bespoke kitchen island was our large custom-made copper ice trough/sink set into the island. The multi-functional feature could be used for entertaining, as an ice bucket and designated space for growing culinary herbs.
By incorporating these elements into your kitchen design, you can create a beautiful and harmonious space, fostering a connection with nature and enhancing your overall well-being.
