Design Brief: Creating a Calm Scandinavian–Bohemian Kitchen
Overview:
The clients were in the process of building a new open-plan kitchen, dining and living extension to their home at Barrs Wood Drive in New Milton, Hampshire. Their vision was to create a space that felt calm, modern and cohesive with the clean architecture of the extension. While contemporary in style, it was important that the kitchen felt warm and welcoming rather than stark or clinical.
The clients were particularly drawn to Scandinavian-inspired interiors for their simplicity, light tones and sense of calm. At the same time, they wanted to introduce a subtle bohemian influence through layered textures, natural materials and house plants, adding warmth and personality to the space.
Material choices focused on light timber tones such as oak, paired with tactile finishes including stone and quartz. Matte surfaces were preferred throughout, reinforcing the natural and understated design direction. The overall palette consisted of warm whites, soft greys and earthy neutral tones.
As the kitchen forms part of a large open-plan environment, it was important that it connected naturally with the dining and living areas. An island was therefore included to act as the social centre of the room, providing a space for cooking, casual dining and entertaining.
Project Details
During the design process we explored several layout options to fully understand how the kitchen could work within the architecture of the extension. Four completely different layouts were developed, each responding to the space in a unique way.
The final design became a carefully considered combination of these ideas, taking the strongest elements from each concept to create a balanced and functional result.
One key design discussion focused on an existing brick-built pantry located in the corner of the original room. Removing it would have created a cleaner footprint, but retaining it offered valuable storage and character. Together with the client we decided to keep the pantry and enhance it as a feature within the design. Bespoke shelving was introduced internally and a glazed door added to give depth and visual interest.
Another challenge within the space was a structural steel goalpost. Rather than simply concealing it, we integrated it into the kitchen design by framing it within a double-door pantry unit that now houses a coffee station and breakfast cupboard.
These considered solutions allowed the architecture and cabinetry to work together cohesively, ensuring the space felt intentional and well resolved.
For the furniture we selected the Pronorm Y Line range, a refined handleless system with a contrasting rail detail.
The main cabinetry finish is Pronorm Angora Grey, a warm neutral tone that pairs well with timber and stone textures. To introduce warmth we used Pronorm Linear Oak on the feature pantry, breakfast bar and coffee station.
Quartz worktops from BQS were chosen for their durability and low maintenance, providing the appearance of natural stone while remaining practical for everyday use.
Subtle LED lighting beneath the worktops highlights the handleless channels, while warm lighting inside the pantry creates a soft glow through the glazed door.
Most appliances were already owned by the client, so the specification focused on key additions.
A Novy Compact Professional ceiling hood was selected for powerful and discreet extraction. An integrated AEG dishwasher was installed for quiet operation within the open-plan space.
The sink chosen was the Franke Mythos 700 extra-wide model, paired with a Quooker Flex Pro 3 tap providing instant boiling water alongside hot and cold functions.
The finished kitchen at Barrs Wood Drive successfully combines Scandinavian simplicity with subtle bohemian warmth. Linear Oak elements introduce texture and softness, while Angora Grey cabinetry provides a calm and neutral foundation.
The existing pantry now sits comfortably within the design, with its glazed door and internal lighting creating a warm feature within the room. At the centre of the space, the island acts as a social hub, providing both practical workspace and casual seating.
Despite structural challenges, the final result is a calm, cohesive and welcoming kitchen that works beautifully for everyday living and entertaining.
Pronorm Kitchen: £13,500
Appliances, AEG & NOVY: £2,500
FRANKE Sink: £420
QUOOKER Tap: £1250
BQS Worktop: £2800
Installation: £2500
Delivery: £390
Cost: £23,360
VAT @20%: £4672
Total: £28,032
Delivering bespoke kitchen design and luxury renovation projects with precision and craftsmanship.
(01425) 209900
contact@studio30interiors.com
Considering a Similar Kitchen Project
If you are planning a kitchen renovation or open plan extension and want to explore thoughtful layout solutions and carefully selected materials, Studio 30 Interiors can guide you through the design process.
Every project begins with understanding how your home needs to function before moving on to materials and finishes.
Book a design consultation to explore the possibilities for your kitchen.
Contact us through our email contact@studio30interiors.com