Nick Munn of Worcester-based Black Pear Bespoke reveals how he concentrated on mixing up materials for clients who were after a unique space that could complement their original works of art and antiques.
Q: What type of property was it in and who was the project for?
A: The property was a Victorian town house – it was in a rather neglected state when the recently married couple took the project on as their first home together. They are a professional couple who relocated from Monmouthshire to renovate their dream property in Cheltenham.
Q: What was the brief from the client for this project?
A: The client wanted a kitchen that would fit in seamlessly to their open-plan living space. They love characterful antique furniture and also have a passion for art, which they also wanted to display in the space.
Q: How did you go about meeting the brief?
A: It was clear from the start that materials, finishes and details were going to be a key to a successful design. We produced numerous materials samples and fine tuned the design to achieve the exact aesthetic that the client envisioned.
Q: What type of cabinetry did you choose and what made it the perfect choice?
A: Sustainability and longevity were key considerations from the outset. We wanted to stay away from chipboard and laminate finishes. We made completely bespoke cabinets that were constructed from a high-quality FSC approved birch plywood and European oak, these gave a contemporary look and incredibly strong cupboards that are built to last many, many years.
Q: What materials did you use?
A: The cabinet doors were in a ‘character’ grade oak with the filled knots and splits that the client requested in their brief. It was all finished by hand, with a white stain and then a natural but highly durable hard wax oil to further enhance the grain of the wood. The countertop was a matte finish carrara quartz, which was complemented by off-white tiles with a textured handmade look.
Q: What were the particular challenges that you faced?
A: Sourcing the correct timber and finishing it correctly were the biggest challenges. Getting this correct was going to ‘make or break’ the project and we worked hard to get these details exactly right!
Q: What is your favourite part of the finished project?
A: How well the kitchen synergises with the clients' collection of beautiful antique furniture and art.
Q: Are there any design elements that you’re particularly proud of?
A: I think the chunky, full length floating shelf above the countertop works particularly well. It helps to link all the elements of the design together and provides a perfect place to display paintings and sculpture.
Q: What is the client's favourite part of the finished project?
A: The client loves the functionality of the kitchen, with a large pull-out larder unit, hidden drawers, and a very practical pull-out bin: Everything has been considered, and perfectly located to allow the space to be really usable.
