Simply French Warm woods and neutral colours bring French charm to this kitchen by Pauline Stockwell

Matching a kitchen to the architectural style and decor of a house makes good design sense, but it's equally important to ensure the space is highly functional, with easy connections to adjacent rooms.

Before this renovation by kitchen designer Pauline Stockwell and interior designer Heather Thorley, the kitchen was closed off from the casual lounge and formal family room on either side. A large dining table made movement around the kitchen awkward, and the lack of storage and bench space also needed to be addressed, says Stockwell.

"For the new design, the homeowners wanted to improve functionality, while retaining the traditional French Provincial theme that was in keeping with the rest of the house. It was also important to open up the space so it could become the social hub of the home.

"The kitchen was blocked off from the casual living room by cabinetry and a refrigerator the ceiling beam shows where it was situated. The cabinetry was removed to improve circulation and make the space more inviting."

In its place, a double-sided shelving unit was installed, adding to the French Country aesthetic and providing extra storage space. A new island also provided more storage and maximised the available bench space.

"The owners have two children, and wanted the kitchen to be the heart of the home," says Stockwell. "Introducing an island means cooking has become a more social activity. And opening the space up has created a gathering place for family and friends."

In keeping with the French Provincial theme, the colour palette is neutral with a few tonal variations for the sake of visual cohesion.

The cabinetry was given a distressed, aged look, and is complemented by the decorative finish on the walls, which suggests the colour and texture of old-world plaster.

Story by: Ellen Dorset