How do you go about designing a kitchen for a family you’ll never meet? It’s a challenging concept, but one our commercial designers have mastered for luxury residential developers, Westbourne Homes.
Nestled in the tranquil, semi-rural village of Hurst in Berkshire, Westbourne Homes’ Little Acre development called for the creation of four bespoke kitchen and utility spaces. The brief was clear: to design kitchens that were uniquely tailored to the new homes, while also offering broad appeal – spaces where future families could imagine cooking, dining and unwinding together.
When Westbourne approached us with the project, it was the natural next step in a partnership founded on shared values of craftmanship, sustainable materials and timeless design. As a trusted partner in our contract client network for several years, Westbourne had already collaborated with us on several high-end commercial projects. ‘The kitchen is a pivotal point in our buyers’ decision-making process,’ says Westbourne’s head of sales and marketing, Lucy Clifton. ‘The level of attention to detail and enduring beauty found in Neptune’s designs made the brand an obvious choice for our bespoke properties.’
Familiar with our three kitchen collections, Westbourne felt that the grand, country feel of Chichester, with its intricate mouldings, would be the perfect fit for the four properties. Our design team set to work, balancing timeless looks with functionality to craft spaces that would appeal to a wide range of families. ‘Every design choice has the potential homeowner at the forefront of our minds,’ says Becky Smith, our commercial team lead. ‘We think meticulously about how they will use the space.’ The utility rooms, for example, incorporate Chichester’s cleverly hidden appliance cabinets and laundry baskets to ensure that everything has its place.
While each space had a unique layout, certain elements were included across the homes to ensure a shared sense of character and practicality. ‘Each kitchen had some form of larder cabinet, whether full height or countertop,’ Becky explains. ‘Our pull-out chopping block and tray are always favourites, as is our hidden double bin. These are the details that make the space work harder, while adding to its charm.’
The kitchens were brought to life in Flax Blue, one of our most beloved shades, while the utility rooms were finished in the warm, welcoming tones of Saffron. ‘We wanted to bring a sense of playfulness into the design,’ explains Westbourne designer, Maddy Coleman. The result is a pairing that feels both lively and grounded, infusing character into the newly built homes without compromising the refined elegance that defines Westbourne’s developments.
‘From the design consultation to installation, the process was seamless,’ says Maddy. Neptune provided out-of-the-box box solutions to all our feedback, which was invaluable as we strive to create truly unique spaces.’ As for the families who now call these homes their own, each received a welcome pack following the installation of their kitchen, complete with their lifetime guarantee. These kitchens have proven to be far more than just functional spaces. ‘They’re not just buying a new home with a new kitchen,’ says Lucy. ‘They’re acquiring a space that’s brimming with character. The island, in particular, has become the hub of each home – a place for hosting, where children and friends gather.'
To begin your kitchen journey, book your free consultation today or visit your nearest store.