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Living the Dream in Appledore. Brian and Fiona Tilke, are no strangers to creating grand designs. Having already completed a self-build in Appledore, they wanted to downsize. A neglected 1960’s bungalow came onto the market in the most unique location in Appledore Devon. Whilst all the building work was underway, Brian and Fiona then set their creative minds to the allimportant kitchen design. A central island unit was key to this vision and Fiona loves the colour red and wanted to incorporate this strong colour into ‘her’ kitchen. “I’ve always wanted to use red in my kitchens and friends and family were sceptical” said Fiona. “But I think the red, when contrasted with the other colours in my kitchen looks amazing.” After their initial consultation, the couple sat down with Ashgrove kitchen designer, Luke. “What we liked about Ashgrove Kitchens and their designer Luke, was their ability to listen” says Fiona. “We tend to get a little excited and throw loads of ideas into the melting pot but developer-update.co.uk
their knowledge and experience really helped bring about exactly what we wanted.” The final design was approved but further enhanced as the space in the kitchen became more fully realised. Tall units were added on the right to make even more use of the wall space adjacent to the utility room. These units not only make a bold statement in Fiona’s favourite colour, but are also extremely practical. They incorporate both an oven and a microwave at chest height which make the appliances so much easier to use - plus, of course, lots and lots of essential storage space. As a contrast to the red, Luke and Fiona decided on a dark grey gloss (anthracite) material to feature within the central island unit and the remaining storage cupboards of the kitchen. Quartz worktops in ‘twinkle white’ further enhance the colour combination and provide a large area for the preparation of food. With all that food preparation, the sink plays a very important part, so it’s vital that it’s position is well thought out. Positioning the sink in the corner not only helps bring a nice balance to the kitchen but also provides more worktop space.
The central island unit is pivotal to the design of this kitchen. From a design point of view, it brings the two distinct sides of this imaginative kitchen together. As well as the design, manufacture and installation of the kitchen, Ashgrove helped with the choice of flooring and lighting Ashgrove Kitchens have showrooms in both Crediton and Exeter in Devon which showcase their refined ability to create bespoke, both traditional and contemporary in styling. They also offer a full range of appliances from leading manufacturers including La Cornue and Sub Zero & Wolf. For more details contact Ashgrove on 01363 773533 or email info@ashgrovekitchens.co.uk