Meet Sam and Will, first-time homeowners and passionate renovation enthusiasts who have taken on the exciting challenge of transforming their home. With a clear vision and a keen eye for detail, they set out to create their dream kitchen and utility space.
Working with Gemini, we have helped to bring Sam and Will’s vision to life. Join us as they reveal the beautiful results of their hard work, highlighting a kitchen and utility space that blend style, functionality, and a touch of luxury.
Could you briefly describe your renovation project, including whether it was a self-build or full renovation, and provide the timescales for when you started?
In 2021, we embarked on an ambitious journey to extend and renovate our home, a decision that would test our patience and determination over the coming months. We found ourselves living on a building site for more than nine months, waiting for the all-important planning permission.
Our initial application was declined, but with some careful adjustments and a lot of perseverance, we finally received the green light in December 2021. By February 2022, the demolition of the entire front of the house was underway, marking the beginning of a major transformation.
Just a couple of months later, in April, the new walls of our 100% extension were starting to take shape. Now, as we anticipate moving into @our_east_view in September 2024, we can look back on the lengthy process with a sense of accomplishment. We remained steadfast in our vision, never rushing any part of the process, and always ensuring that every job was done to the highest standard.
What was the inspiration for your kitchen, what did you want to achieve?
Our vision for the kitchen was inspired by the feel of our two favourite home and lifestyle brands: The White Company and Neptune. We dreamed of a space that would blend "traditional with a touch of modern" and embrace a "light, bright, and airy" atmosphere.
It was important to us to create a kitchen that would not only reflect our personal style but also stand the test of time, effortlessly evolving with ever-changing trends. We envisioned an open-plan layout, perfect for hosting friends and family, while also offering practicality for our future family home.
Why did you choose Calacatta Grand Imperial, what did you like about it?
When it came to choosing the materials for our kitchen, we were immediately drawn to the Minerox Calacatta Grand Imperial quartz. The delicate veins of gold running through the stone perfectly complemented the gold handles we had chosen for our cabinets, creating a cohesive and luxurious look.
Our visit to the Gemini showroom in York sealed the deal - one look at this stunning material and we were completely in love.
Interested in a Calacatta Grand Imperial worktop for your kitchen? Get in touch for a free, no-obligation quote today.
What is your favourite part of the kitchen worktops in your kitchen and utility? Any standout features?
The kitchen island quickly became the centrepiece of the entire space, capturing our hearts with its grandeur. Its presence anchors the kitchen, making it both a functional workspace and a beautiful focal point. Will’s favourite feature is the oven splashback, which truly delivers a ‘wow’ factor.
The decorative surround we designed with the “Academy of Designs, Mold” adds a touch of elegance that we simply could not live without. For Sam, the quartz windowsills around the sink area are a highlight. Not only are they practical for managing the inevitable splashes and spills, but they also add a polished finish to the kitchen. We have always believed that it is the tiny details that count, and these windowsills are a perfect example of how the right final changes can bring a space together.
In our utility area, the floating shelf has become a standout feature. Sam had to fight for this one, but now that it is installed, we both agree that it was worth it. The way the quartz flows seamlessly from the splashback into the shelf, illuminated by soft lighting, creates a striking visual impact. It is definitely the ‘wow’ factor of the utility space and one of our favourite elements in the house.
How did you find your experience with Gemini?
Reflecting on our experience with Gemini, we could not be more pleased. From start to finish, their service has been exceptional. The showroom is impressive, communication has been smooth, and the installation process was both efficient and exciting.
We have thoroughly enjoyed displaying our kitchen as part of Gemini’s Autumn campaign, and we would not hesitate to recommend them to anyone looking to create their dream kitchen. This journey has been long, but the results have been more than worth it, and we are thrilled to finally see our vision come to life.
Interested in a Minerox quartz worktop for your kitchen? Get in touch for a free, no obligation quote today.
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