Creating the Heart of the Home:

Claire Garner Interiors share their Kitchen Design Expertise

It is through gaining a deep understanding of the lifestyles of their clients, Claire Garner Interiors are able to craft spaces that are not only functional, but also balance traditional rustic charm with a refreshing and airy atmosphere. We delve into the expertise of Claire Garner, Director at Claire Garner Interiors, to uncover the intricate process behind designing the perfect country kitchen space.

"At Claire Garner Interiors, we pride ourselves on offering a warm and personalised approach to every client, delivering elevated and tailored designs," says Claire. "When approaching a kitchen design specifically, my focus is on achieving a harmonious balance between functionality, style, and practicality. Our goal is always to transform kitchens into spaces that reflect the individuality and lifestyle of each client. For rural family homes, it's crucial to create a kitchen that is not only beautiful but also serves as the heart of the home where cooking, entertaining, and everyday living seamlessly come together."

The Work Triangle and Beyond

Efficiency is key in every kitchen layout that Claire and her team design. "I prioritise efficiency by organising key components like the sink, stove, and fridge in a triangular arrangement, known as the work triangle," explains Claire. "This configuration ensures a smooth workflow and easy access to essential areas during meal preparation. Additional elements such as dishwashers, pantries, or wine fridges are then strategically incorporated based on individual needs and preferences" Claire adds. 

Natural Materials for a Rustic Feel

Claire Garner Interiors loves to hero natural materials, creating traditional and rustic spaces with a clean, open ambience. "Incorporating natural materials is key to achieving a rustic charm in kitchen design," explains Claire. "Wood plays a pivotal role, whether it’s used for cabinetry, shelving, or kitchen accessories as its rich textures and warm tones infuse the space with a sense of history and authenticity. To further enhance the rustic ambiance, we frequently integrate other natural elements such as stone surfaces for worktops or flooring, and brass hardware, adding layers of organic beauty, warmth, and durability."

Creating a Cohesive Design

Claire highlights, "The use of neutral colour palettes is instrumental in maintaining a light, fresh ambiance. Shades like white, beige, and soft pastels allow natural materials to shine, simultaneously making spaces feel more expansive and inviting. Also, remember to add little design touches of greenery, through indoor plants or a kitchen herb garden, which will bring life and vibrancy to the kitchen design."

Lighting the Hub of the Home

"Lighting plays a crucial role in achieving the desired rustic charm," continues Claire. "Metal or glass pendant lights and stylish wall fixtures provide perfect illumination, complementing natural materials and overall design aesthetics. The right lighting can transform a space, making it feel both functional and inviting."

Layered lighting is essential in creating a versatile and welcoming kitchen space. "By combining ambient, task, and accent lighting, you can enhance both the functionality and atmosphere of the kitchen," Claire explains. "Ambient lighting, such as ceiling fixtures or recessed lights, sets the overall tone of the room, providing general illumination. Task lighting, including under-cabinet lights and pendant lights over workspaces, ensures that specific areas are well-lit for cooking and food preparation. Accent lighting, such as spotlights or LED strips, can highlight architectural details, artwork, or decorative elements, adding depth and interest to the space."

"Don't forget about the importance of natural light," Claire emphasises. "Maximising the use of windows and skylights can bring in plenty of natural daylight, enhancing the rustic feel and making the space feel more open and airy. Natural light not only improves the ambiance but also has a positive impact on our well-being."