Historic Kitchen Renovation Blends Bold Colors with Tradition

A historic kitchen renovation at Raynham Hall, a Grade I listed house in England, has successfully combined modern functionality with traditional aesthetics. The redesign, led by Francesca Froggatt, head kitchen designer at deVOL Kitchens, embraced two of the most prominent color trends of 2026, showcasing how bold shades can coexist harmoniously in a space rich with history.

The challenge was to transform a room previously used as a function space into a welcoming family kitchen without compromising the architectural integrity of the property. Raynham Hall, which has hosted kings and soldiers, has interiors that have remained largely unchanged since the 1700s. “The decoration is part of the listing, meaning every surface, including intricate gilding and ornate carvings, had to remain untouched,” Froggatt explained.

The kitchen’s design began with the restoration of the original green wall paint, believed to be the color used in the 18th century. Collaborating with the expert team at Edward Bulmer Paint, the goal was to preserve historical accuracy while introducing complementary colors. The owners, Octavia and Tom, selected deVOL’s Refectory Red for cabinetry, a deep hue that adds warmth without overshadowing the room’s historic features.

The combination of rich green walls and deep red cabinetry creates an inviting atmosphere, softening the formality of the space. “Despite the scale, the kitchen now feels inviting and comfortable, a space where family cooking, chatting, and gathering can thrive,” Froggatt noted.

Compliance with preservation regulations dictated the design choices. The cabinetry and appliances could not be fixed to the walls to maintain the integrity of the original woodwork and stone. “Every piece of cabinetry had to be designed to sit sympathetically within the room,” Froggatt explained. To adapt, the couple placed their refrigerator and freezer in the adjoining pantry, allowing the kitchen to remain low-profile and unobtrusive.

This layout decision led to a design that is intentionally minimal yet elegant. With much of the wall space occupied by listed decorative features, Froggatt opted for a large freestanding breakfast cupboard in the only practical area for full-height cabinetry. This clever arrangement gives the room’s historic detail room to breathe while remaining functional.

The kitchen successfully balances grandeur and simplicity. “The Shaker cabinet design, painted in rich tones, brings a sense of functionality and calm to the room, providing balance against the opulence of the surroundings,” Froggatt said. The result is a kitchen that respects the history of Raynham Hall while catering to modern family life.

Lighting also plays a critical role in creating warmth and intimacy in such a vast space. The incorporation of warm tones, thoughtful furniture placement, and decorative fixtures helped to diminish the formality of the kitchen. “Our challenge was to make the space feel welcoming and lived in again,” Froggatt stated.

The kitchen’s design showcases a masterclass in marrying bold color choices with a historic setting. The thoughtful balance of colors and minimalistic cabinetry creates an inviting atmosphere that feels both timeless and contemporary. This renovation not only honors the history and character of Raynham Hall but also serves as a functional space for the family, proving that even the most unexpected color combinations can look chic and sophisticated in a historic context.