The Royal Green Shaker Kitchen – The Heart of the Home

Shaker Kitchen Transformation: A Green and Grey Masterpiece in North London

Project Overview

This completed project showcases a stunning transformation of a North London home, where a substantial ground floor rear extension reimagined the kitchen and dining area. Originally built in the 1940s, this two-storey, east-facing semi-detached property was updated to meet the needs of modern living with a timeless aesthetic.

The primary aim? To create an open-plan Shaker kitchen filled with natural light—perfect for entertaining and everyday family life.

The Client’s Vision

The homeowners wanted a space that was:

• Sociable and inviting

• Capable of hosting dinner parties and gatherings

• Open-plan, yet practical

• Stylish, with a hint of bold personality

They desired a green kitchen scheme with touches of grey, an elegant mix that would age gracefully while making a contemporary statement.

Design Challenges

One of the most significant obstacles was a structural column located in the centre of the proposed kitchen area. It threatened to interrupt the flow and symmetry of the room, but instead of relocating it (which would’ve been costly and intrusive), the design team embraced the challenge and made it a standout feature.

The Design Solution

The finished kitchen balances elegance and functionality, with several design choices enhancing both style and practicality.

Key Features:

• Shaker-Style Cabinetry: Warm, light grey wood-grain painted doors offer a calm and sophisticated backdrop.

• Accent Colour: A bold royal green kitchen island adds character and depth, becoming the visual anchor of the space.

• Structural Column Integration: Ingeniously incorporated into the central island and paired with the sink to function as a unique splashback feature.

• Open-Plan Layout: No wall units; instead, a bespoke quartz shelf was installed for both decorative flair and functional storage.

• Cooking Zone: Centrally positioned induction hob with deep pan drawers below and tall larder units on either side.

• Entertaining Zone: A separate drinks station lets guests help themselves, easing congestion in the main kitchen.

• Utility Area: Seamlessly designed to match the main space using identical cabinetry and finishes.

Lighting and Flow

Floor-to-ceiling glass bifold doors at the rear flood the kitchen with daylight and blur the line between indoor and outdoor living, giving this North London home a bright and airy feel year-round.

Why This Green and Grey Shaker Kitchen Works

Combining grey and green in a Shaker kitchen creates an environment that’s both calm and luxurious. Grey provides the perfect neutral foundation, while green introduces vibrancy and connection to the garden beyond.

Benefits of this Colour Combination:

• Grey is timeless and adaptable to various décor styles.

• Green adds warmth, depth, and nature-inspired calmness.

• The mix feels both classic and on-trend for 2025 and beyond.

Summary of the completed kitchen project:

This green and grey Shaker kitchen perfectly balances sophistication, storage, and sociability. With its thoughtful layout, rich textures, and smart use of colour, the space feels luxurious without being flashy—ideal for modern family life and entertaining alike.