Richlite Worktops for Contemporary Kitchens
One of our favourite engineered materials to work with is the eco-friendly Richlite. It is manufactured from partially recycled paper and phenolic resin. Developed over seventy years, it has evolved into a premium, nontoxic surface material used by aerospace, extreme sports, and the architecture and design community. Using FSC-certified paper underscores Richlite’s commitment to sustainability. It is durable, versatile, and looks modern and velvety. As a result, it is ideal for traditional or contemporary kitchens. Our expert cabinet makers enjoy working with it because it opens up new design possibilities and practical applications with materials that combine the strengths of stone, metal, and hardwood.
Based on years of experience designing bespoke kitchens, we look for durability, less volatility, and beauty in the finish when choosing an engineered kitchen worktop at Papilio. Time and time again, Richlite proves to be a fantastic example of pioneering manufacturing created especially for bespoke kitchens.
Here are a few examples of handmade kitchens in which Richlite was chosen as the worktop material due to its durability, effortless maintenance, and sustainability.
The Alpine Ski Chalet Kitchen in France
We were fortunate to work on a stunning barn conversion kitchen in the French Alps for our Alpine Ski Chalet Kitchen in France. Inspired by the breathtaking vistas, natural, original wood and abundant light, we designed a contemporary kitchen with traditional craftsmanship. Utilising classic materials such as oak, we also embraced modern engineered materials for utility and style. We chose Richlite for the work surface for the parameter cabinets. Fabricated in-house from 12mm diamond black Richlite, it offers a modern look and practical benefits, which include durability and cleanliness. The Richlite worked in harmony with the natural wooden features in the contemporary kitchen.
The Frome Kitchen
For our Frome Kitchen in Somerset, we designed a handmade kitchen in a stunning Edwardian Manor house. The design embraced the property’s original architectural features and highlighted engineered materials for the busy family kitchen.
To emphasise the red tint applied to the walnut finish on the parameter cabinetry, we used Valchromat and Richlite to create contrast in the feature kitchen island. The Valchromat was used for the double-thickness fluted side panels, while the worktop suited Richlite perfectly. The work surface offered a phenomenally hardwearing surface that patinas over time, resulting in a leather-like finish. Our design included a solid brass trim around the island along with a brass section counter sunk to the rear of the handle cut out. The handmade kitchen design is functional and beautiful and highlighted with distinct features.
The Richlite Kitchen
The Richlite Kitchen The Richlite Kitchen is one of our signature handmade projects featuring oak and Richlite. It is light and dark, traditional and modern and highly original. The highlight of the unique design was the feature free-standing kitchen island. The structure was hand-cut from a single section of oak, allowing the grain to weave along the entire length naturally. And the exposed finger joint detail highlights the skill of the Papilio team. The work surface was made from a single sheet of Richlite with a 3mm profile. This refined detail was cut precisely, which only master cabinet makers can achieve. To utilise the engineered material further, we used ‘diamond black’ Richlite for the cabinet doors. We also chose a pair of bespoke black limestone sinks and ancient black limestone to continue the black kitchen theme. The result was a contemporary kitchen that stands the test of time and style.
