In the heart of the Cotswolds, a remarkable kitchen transformation has taken place, showcasing the power of creativity and a deep appreciation for reclaimed materials. Libs Nicholls, the founder of Domestic Science, has crafted a space that tells a story of patience, passion, and a unique approach to design.
The Journey to a Dream Kitchen
After years of adapting and making do, Nicholls finally found the perfect home—a 1910 Co-op bakery with potential for a large, functional kitchen. With a vision to create a space where her family could gather, she embarked on a ground-floor renovation, guided by her love for architectural salvage and a penchant for collecting unique pieces.
A Kitchen Evolved
This isn't Nicholls' first kitchen renovation; she has a history of transforming spaces with salvaged materials. The previous kitchen, with its 1950s English Rose units and zinc worktops, showcased her ability to create a distinctive retro-industrial vibe. However, the latest iteration takes this concept to a whole new level.
Moving Walls, Creating Space
The transformation began with an extension and the removal of an internal wall. This simple yet effective change created a spacious, open-plan area. Nicholls' attention to detail extended to the veranda, where old cast iron pillars and skylights found new life, and the ceiling, crafted from the tops of Dutch utilitarian tables, added a unique touch.
Resourceful Flooring
Even the floorboards tell a story. Nicholls' commitment to giving new life to old materials led her to use reclaimed pine planks, originally used for ripening cheese, as flooring. This choice not only added character but also showcased her belief in the beauty of repurposing.
The Heart of the Kitchen
At the center of this kitchen is a 9-foot Victorian pine dresser base, a piece specifically acquired for this project. Topped with a mix of salvaged and new Carrara marble, it became the focal point, dictating the layout and functionality of the entire space. From the double sink to the practical working area, every element was carefully considered and planned around this hero piece.
Unveiling Forgotten Treasures
Long-forgotten finds were given a new lease of life. A galvanized steel panel, weathered in the garden for two decades, became a stunning splashback. The tin ceiling tiles from the previous kitchen added texture, and Crittall pantry doors, rescued from a neighbor's skip, were reglazed with ribbed glass, creating a unique feature.
A Personal Space, Naturally Evolved
The result is a kitchen that feels lived-in and loved. Every surface has a story, from the salvaged marble to the antique cupboard. Nicholls' approach to design is a testament to her belief that honest materials and a slow process create a space that is not only elegant but also deeply personal.
As Nicholls reflects, "It's been a journey, but that's the beauty of it. When you use materials with character, the process takes time, and the result is a kitchen that feels like it has evolved naturally."
This kitchen is a masterpiece of resourceful design, a true labor of love, and a perfect example of how creativity and a passion for salvage can transform a space.
