Anyone who follows photographer Rachael Wilshaw on Instagram will know she loves to decorate her home with bold, dark shades - and her beautiful new kitchen is no different.
Rachael has created a stunning open space where the whole family can eat, do homework and relax together.
She chatted to us about what she wanted to achieve with her dream kitchen - and how she makes her trademark bold colours work.
“The design of our kitchen is very important to me and my family.
“That’s why we’ve gone through this renovation as - although the old kitchen wasn’t small - it was divided into three separate rooms.
“It was important to us to create a larger space we could do everything in - we wanted to spend time together as a family.
“Now it’s all opened up, that’s exactly what we do: it’s become a modern, family space - plus I’ve incorporated all the design touches I love.
“For example, I’ve always wanted a marble work surface - but I wasn’t sure it was the right choice for us as it would need a lot of looking after.
“Then quartz worktops from Gemini Worktops caught my eye. I got in touch and it was a really fast and efficient service - I was really impressed.
“Gemini’s Calacatta Silver Superior was the perfect solution as it has the same heavy-veined marble look I love, but there’s a lot less maintenance needed.
“The worktops and the walls are light colours, which is a good contrast to the dark green worktops I’ve chosen.
“My kitchen is south-facing, so it's a light, bright room and the dark colours really work.
“A lot of people are afraid to use dark colours, especially in small rooms - but I think they can add some interest.
“It’s important to also add some contrast, though, so you’re not just walking into a black box.
“You can have a light-coloured ceiling, flooring and furniture, for example.
“Colour confidence comes with experience - I first tried decorating with darker shades a long time ago, when I was living in Dubai with my friend.
“Our apartment was very bare and modern - so we thought ‘let’s just try painting a wall black’!
“We loved it! Since then, in each house I’ve lived in, I’ve always gone dark.
“I love how moody and cosy it can make a room, especially a big room. I think it kind of draws it in.”
Rachael chose Minerox Quartz in Calacatta Silver Superior for her kitchen worktops, island and upstands - plus a floating shelf to make the most of an unused corner and a handy little additional shelf behind the range cooker.
She also opted for an AXIX sink, supplied and fitted by Gemini Worktops.
You can follow Rachael on Instagram @beetrootandblack.
Read Part 2 of Designer kitchens feature big, brave colour choices to see Rachael's finished kitchen!
Interested in one of our quartz surfaces for your kitchen? Get in touch for a free, no obligation quote today.
Arctic Starburst
Aspen Ice
Capri White
Calacatta Gold Superior
