Historic Raynham Hall Kitchen Transforms with Bold Color Trends

A historic kitchen at Raynham Hall has undergone a remarkable transformation, embracing two significant color trends for 2026. The renovation, which required careful consideration to maintain the property’s architectural integrity, showcases how bold colors can coexist with classic design elements. With a commitment to preserving the essence of this Grade I listed house, designers from deVOL Kitchens successfully modernized the space while respecting its storied past.

The kitchen was originally an occasional function room, offering the design team a unique challenge. Francesca Froggatt, head kitchen designer at deVOL, explained that the project had to navigate numerous restrictions due to the building’s historic designation. Many of the interior features, including intricate gilding and ornate carvings, had to remain untouched. “The decoration is part of the listing,” Froggatt noted, emphasizing the importance of preserving the original aesthetic.

The renovation team undertook careful restoration of the green wall paint, believed to be the original color, in collaboration with Edward Bulmer Paint. The restoration allowed for the introduction of complementary colors. The homeowners, Octavia and Tom, selected deVOL’s Refectory Red for the cabinetry, a deep hue that enhances the room’s warmth without overshadowing the historic details.

The combination of the rich green walls and deep red cabinetry creates an inviting atmosphere. “Color plays a huge role in shaping the feel of such an immense space,” Froggatt explained. The design effectively softens the room’s formality while inviting family interaction, creating a space that feels comfortable and functional.

Given the restrictions imposed by the listing, every element of the kitchen had to be carefully considered. “We could not fix or attach anything to the original woodwork or stone,” Froggatt said. Instead, the cabinetry was designed to sit independently within the room, allowing for the preservation of the historic fabric. The couple opted to keep their large refrigerator and freezer in an adjoining pantry, ensuring that the main kitchen remained unobtrusive while still functional.

With limited wall space available for storage, the team designed a large freestanding breakfast cupboard to maximize utility without compromising the room’s elegance. The layout emphasizes simplicity, providing a counterbalance to the grandeur of Raynham Hall’s decorative features.

The understated design choices reflect Octavia and Tom’s preference for timeless pieces that blend seamlessly into the historic context. “The Shaker cabinet design, painted in rich tones, brings a sense of functionality and calm to the room,” Froggatt noted, highlighting the careful balance achieved in the kitchen’s aesthetic.

Lighting also plays a crucial role in creating a welcoming environment. The design incorporates warm tones and strategically placed fixtures to enhance the kitchen’s intimacy. “The challenge was to make such a vast, formal space feel welcoming and lived in again,” Froggatt remarked.

The result is a kitchen that feels more like a living space than a traditional kitchen, with minimal cabinetry and hidden appliances contributing to a curated and inviting atmosphere. The round dining table surrounded by antique chairs adds a cozy touch, encouraging family gatherings and everyday use.

The kitchen at Raynham Hall exemplifies how modern design can harmoniously coexist with historical architecture. By embracing bold colors and maintaining a focus on functionality, the renovation demonstrates that even the most spacious kitchens can feel intimate and inviting. With the right design principles, this remarkable space honors its past while accommodating contemporary family life.