The client’s journey to Blaines was started with a personal recommendation. Blaines eagerly embraced the opportunity to guide and assist the client in realizing their dream finish. This project encompassed substantial structural enhancements that paved the way for a fresh kitchen diner installation and an inviting family bathroom.
This phase of the project was to convert the kitchen into a functional, lifestyle-aligned kitchen diner. The existing kitchen, boasting two doorways, a large light-infusing window, a soil stack, and a boiler, was of ample size. Equally, the dining room boasted a generously proportioned French window patio door and an entryway to the hallway.
The evolution of the kitchen design went through various stages, with the colour scheme largely consistent. The client’s visit to our Swaffham Showroom left them feeling over the moon with door colours, with the major colour alteration focused on the worktop and splashback. A dash of glamour and bling was infused as the client chose the sparkly white starlight Stonewold worktop. The final selection was the Princeton Indigo for the base units and tall units and then offset with a contrasted chalk white for the wall units.
Expressing a desire to knock down the partition yet supporting wall between the kitchen and dining room for an expansive atmosphere, the client set the tone. Our adept design team led discussions, strategically advising on which doorways to seal and which to retain. The old back door was blocked up and the exterior brickwork with toothed-in new bricks. Therefore giving the finish that looked like there was never a door there. Soon after, the door connecting the lounge and kitchen was sealed, while the hallway door was left untouched.
Each installation at Blaines is project managed. Backed by regular site visits and many conversations to ensure seamless execution. The project’s outset saw the installation of an RSJ without any pillars, facilitating a flawless and cohesive finish to both walls and the overall kitchen design. The building team, marked by their helpfulness and patience, maintained effective communication with the client, clarifying each step of the process.
Naturally, a project of this magnitude, particularly during its initial phases, introduces disruptions to daily routines. Following the structural enhancements and fresh plastering across the walls, the clients embarked on a vacation, entrusting Blaines to oversee their property and execute the project. This level of trust profoundly honours us, showcasing the client’s unwavering confidence in both our team and the installation process.
During the course of the project, the client was away on a holiday, but we remained committed to keeping them informed and engaged every step of the way. Despite the physical distance, we bridged the gap through consistent communication. Daily emails, videos, and photos were shared to provide a real-time window into the progress being made. This transparent approach allowed the client to witness the transformation of their space and stay actively involved in decision-making, fostering a sense of trust and collaboration even from afar.
At Blaines, we believe that communication is key to a successful partnership. Our efforts to maintain open lines of dialogue reflect our dedication to ensuring our clients are well-informed and confident throughout the entire project journey.
The decision to block up the doorways empowered our designer to develop an extensive U-shaped kitchen. Then to finish the design a breakfast peninsula was added to the design to give a more worktop space and an area where interactions between the chef and the guest can happen. The client’s forward-thinking vision included an extension beyond the patio doors, ultimately eliminating the sliding doors.
The kitchen diner now effortlessly interconnects kitchen and dining zones, with the rhythm of kitchen units elegantly blending the two spaces. An integrated wine cooler-equipped Dresser unit doubles as a display area for personal mementoes and, of course, wines. Set amidst two tall units and contrasting wall counterparts, this furniture ensemble splendidly complements the dining realm.
The remainder of the kitchen was ingeniously designed to cater to functionality and trendiness, delineating distinct areas for various activities. The central 900mm hob pairs seamlessly with its ducted extractor fan, situated atop the wall, flanked by matching worktops and splashbacks. Abundant prep space surrounds the hob, accommodating culinary endeavours.
A generously sized single-bowl sink, featuring a pull-out tap and efficient draining grooves, perfectly meets the client’s requirements. Adjacent is an integrated dishwasher and washer-dryer, with Blaines supplying all-new appliances that replaced the previous ones.
During the remodelling phase, the client opted to relocate their boiler to the kitchen. This decision was met with precision, offering exact measurements to ensure the boiler’s seamless integration. A neatly fitted boiler housing enables easy access for gas engineers to essential components.
The client’s wish for ergonomically accessible ovens steered the designer toward crafting a bank of single ovens and compact appliances, eliminating the need for double ovens or compact single oven housings. This ingenious solution aligned with the wall once occupied by the lounge door. Now, all ovens are harmoniously positioned for effortless use, their aesthetic appeal further enhanced by aligned doors or drawers that encircle the kitchen