How to Create an English-Style Kitchen in Your Home

The colour palette of an English-style kitchen typically revolves around muted, earthy tones that create a warm, inviting atmosphere. Think soft greys, sage greens, warm beiges and creamy whites. These shades provide a sophisticated backdrop that allows the natural materials of the room to shine — much like this kitchen by Rogan Nash Architects.

Incorporating a modern English-style kitchen into a more contemporary home may involve blending these traditional hues with accents of deeper tones like navy blue or charcoal. A classic English-style kitchen often features cabinetry in these understated shades, paired with natural wood finishes or marble for countertops. The mix of light and dark shades can create a harmonious balance between timeless appeal and modern sensibility.

The hallmark of any English-style kitchen is the focus on craftsmanship and the use of natural materials. Choose quality materials that age beautifully, such as solid wood, marble or stone. A traditional English kitchen often features bespoke cabinetry made from oak, walnut or maple, with elegant detailing such as raised panel doors, mullion glass fronts and ornate mouldings.

In a modern English-style kitchen, the materials may be updated, but the focus remains on durability and beauty. For example, natural stone — marble or granite — remains a popular choice for countertops, while honed or brushed finishes add a modern touch. The rich warmth of wood floors also complements the rustic yet refined look that defines an English-style kitchen, as witnessed in this kitchen by Gunnar Friese of Hewe.

Open shelving is a staple of English kitchen design, offering both functionality and a sense of openness. It allows you to display your best dinnerware, glassware or antique kitchen tools—adding a personal touch to the room. Glass-fronted cabinetry also plays into this aesthetic, giving your kitchen a more airy, less cluttered feel while still offering ample storage.

When designing your English-style kitchen, you might choose to mix traditional closed cabinetry with a few open shelves for visual interest. The juxtaposition of closed and open spaces also allows for greater flexibility in storage, offering both concealment and display space as needed.

Incorporating vintage elements into your kitchen design is essential for achieving the warmth and personality that defines the English style. You can do this by adding antique furniture, vintage light fixtures, or classic crockery. For example, consider installing an old-fashioned wooden dining table or a freestanding butcher’s block. In terms of accessories, think about vintage-style cookware, teapots, or a collection of charming kitchen tools.

While the overall look should feel cohesive, allowing some room for collected treasures and heirlooms gives the kitchen a lived-in, authentic feel that’s hard to replicate with brand-new items alone.

Lighting plays a key role in creating the atmosphere of an English-style kitchen. Traditional English kitchens often feature pendant lights, chandeliers or lantern-style fixtures that provide both ambient and task lighting. These fixtures not only illuminate the space but also add a touch of classic elegance.

In a modern English-style kitchen, you can achieve the same effect with updated lighting choices. Consider using brass, copper or matte black finishes for your light fixtures — much like the modern take on pendant lighting in this kitchen by Studio Italia — to enhance the traditional charm while ensuring the room feels fresh and contemporary. Layering different light sources, from ceiling lights to under-cabinet illumination, will also help create a well-balanced and functional space.