A jewellery-box-inspired kitchen by Ledbury Studio

Ledbury Studio has elevated stainless steel from industrial to indulgent, marrying it with the warmth of aged brass, the richness of English walnut and the timeless elegance of Carrara marble. The result? A breathtakingly luxurious kitchen that exudes sophistication and charm.

A vision of warmth and femininity

The client’s vision was nothing short of enchanting: a kitchen that radiated warmth and femininity, while remaining effortlessly practical for hosting. She also already had her heart set on a La Cornue range cooker (below left). As such, Ledbury Studio founder Charlie Smallbone curated a scheme of brushed stainless-steel cabinetry softened by the opulence of aged brass accents. The bespoke finishes were meticulously hand-matched to the range, demonstrating the artistry of custom craftsmanship.

A striking statement island

At the heart of the kitchen, a spectacular island commands attention, offering both a generous seating area for drinks or casual dining and plenty of prep space. The Carrara marble worktop is strikingly bisected by a strip of English walnut, visually defining the breakfast bar while adding warmth to the design. In addition, the marble is framed with patinated brass corner detailing, reminiscent of an elegant jewellery box.

Under the breakfast bar, the island is clad in a single sheet of hand-distressed brass (right), its rich patina lending texture and depth. On the working side, stainless steel drawers gleam with bespoke brass handles, while brass-framed steel panels at each end create a sleek, cohesive finish. Suspended above, a perfectly positioned pendant stylishly illuminates the island.

Elegant storage with a touch of glamour

Storage is seamlessly integrated into the fabric of this exquisite kitchen. To the left of the La Cornue range, built-in shelving provides a refined yet highly functional display (above left), while to the right, a seamlessly integrated fridge is discreetly concealed behind bespoke stainless-steel cabinetry. Underneath, a double sink – sculpted from Carrara marble – makes a striking focal point and is usefully flanked by twin dishwashers. 

On the opposite side, a row of fluted glass wall cabinets, elegantly framed in brass, offers both practical storage and a touch of glamour (above right). A thoughtful finishing touch: a brushed stainless-steel frame encasing the brass details subtly links the wall units to the base units, ensuring a cohesive aesthetic.

A seamless transition to dining

Beyond the kitchen, there is a stylish dining area featuring custom banquette seating and a showstopping round table crafted from book-matched walnut. Then, framing the French doors to the garden, twin storage cupboards – clad in Ledbury Studio’s signature ‘Choppy Water’ carved oak with brass detailing – offer both beauty and function. One serves as a discreet cocktail cabinet, complete with pocket doors and a mirrored back, while the other is a fully equipped larder cupboard.

A celebration of craftsmanship and functionality

“This kitchen is a true reflection of Ledbury Studio’s dedication to innovative materials and meticulous craftsmanship,” says Charlie Smallbone. “The blend of glamour and practicality is seamless, creating a space that is as stunning as it is functional. And what better testament to its success than the client hosting a 50-guest gathering just one week after installation – effortlessly entertaining in her spectacular new kitchen!”