How to create an effortlessly chic country kitchen

Kitchens come in many shapes, sizes and styles, but “country” is one interpretation that particularly resonates with home owners.

Maybe it’s a sense of nostalgia it evokes around, say, memories of granny’s kitchen, or perhaps it’s just a certain rustic charm. Either way, country-style kitchens are always in vogue.

Simon Richards of Berkely Residential, who lists this week’s Red Hill feature property, says its kitchen is a case in point.

“The extensive custom cabinetry and joinery definitely expresses country style – especially built around a substantial free-standing stove,” he says.

“While the feel is country, this is a high-end interpretation that’s spared no expense in thoughtful design and the inclusion of fixtures, fittings, lighting and appliances that meet the highest standards.”

Richards says the generous butler’s pantry and other features, such as a porcelain sink, hanging cookware, pendant lighting and sash windows, all add to the country kitchen vibe.

Sonja McAuliffe of Archertec Interiors says country or farmhouse kitchens evoke a wide range of pleasant emotions.

“People connect them with feelings of welcome, comfort and homeliness,” she says.

“Of course, you don’t need to live in the country to enjoy the style of a farmhouse kitchen.”

McAuliffe says a range of elements help to create the feel, whether starting from an original design or accessorising an existing space.

“Natural materials like timber and stone can provide that organic connection through floors, exposed beams, cabinetry, dining furniture and selection of fittings,” she says.

“Pastel colours like buttercup yellow or gumnut green also really enhance that country feel.”

Kitchen goes country

Rustic: Country-style kitchens express a kind of rustic charm through the inclusion of natural materials, such as timber and stone. Cabinetry design and choices of fixtures and fittings also reinforce the theme.

Connection: There’s a reason why kitchens are the hub of any home and country style appeals to a nostalgic sense of family connection – a place that’s comforting, welcoming, nurturing and secure.

Get the look: Paint cupboards in popular country colours, such as blues and creams. Period-look lighting can help to create a welcoming ambience. Incorporate accessories such as cutting boards, vintage crockery and try hanging cookware.

Feature Property

1 Reliance Street Red Hill

There are certain kinds of properties where a grand piano and a library are just so at home and this elegant Red Hill residence is definitely in that category.

Most homes would struggle to stage a musical instrument the size of a small car, but this two-storey home confidently solves that with some 338 square metres under the roof.

And in elegant French provincial style, it’s perfectly balanced on a 1462-square-metre, north-facing block characterised by rolling lawns, mature trees and privacy hedging.

View property

The entry into a hall provides the axis. On one side, double doors lead into generous formal living and sitting rooms; on the other is a formal dining with library shelving.

The all-white country-style kitchen sits atop polished, timber floors and is hallmarked by bespoke cabinetry and a stone-topped island bench. A butler’s pantry provides support, while appliances include a big, free-standing oven and a wine fridge.

Informal living areas are offered through a conservatory highlighted by vaulted ceilings, a fireplace and in-slab heating. There’s also a rumpus room.

Sleeping quarters upstairs include two minor bedrooms and a guest suite with a sitting room. The main bedroom features a walk-in wardrobe and a luxury en suite. There’s also a hobby room and a study nook.

Al fresco living is offered through a covered entertaining terrace, a heated swimming pool and pool house, while a double garage takes care of parking.