English Rose Cream Shaker Kitchen

What was once a fairly ordinary kitchen is now a warm, elegant shaker-style space in soft cashmere tones — lighter, brighter and far more practical for everyday life.

When Mr and Mrs Cook began their renovation journey, they were looking for a company they could trust. They already knew of Gardiner Haskins Interiors as an established Bristol business and, after researching other kitchen companies, found that our reviews stood out.

After visiting the Bristol showroom, their decision was made.

Working with Kitchen Designer Tara, the entire project, from initial design through to installation, was carefully managed with the support of experienced fitter Ryan. What surprised them most was how smooth the process felt.

“We didn’t really have to do anything, it was all organised for us. Ryan was great at keeping in contact with the other workmen and builders. It was no hassle and a lot easier than we thought.”

From layout decisions to practical advice, even down to recommending the right size skip, the team ensured nothing was overlooked.

The new kitchen design centres around classic shaker cabinetry painted in a soft cashmere shade. Combined with the natural light from the large windows, the space now feels open and welcoming. Wood-effect worktops add warmth and texture, balancing the neutral tones beautifully.

Storage had been one of the biggest frustrations in their previous kitchen. Tara addressed this by introducing two tall larder units either side of the existing fridge freezer, along with additional storage above. Internal drawer systems make organisation effortless, from neatly arranged tins to easy-access cookware. Everything now has a place, making the kitchen feel calmer and more enjoyable to use.

Small design tweaks have made a big difference too. Simply repositioning the sink and draining board improved the flow of washing up and daily tasks. Under-cabinet LED lighting brightens the work surfaces for food preparation while adding subtle atmosphere in the evenings.

The island, which had already been part of the original layout, posed a challenge. Its long, square-edged design created a narrow walkway to the back door, leading to more than a few bumped hips over the years. By trimming just a few inches from its length and introducing curved corners, Tara preserved the island’s functionality while dramatically improving the flow of the room. The change is subtle in appearance but transformative in practicality.

Appliances were thoughtfully integrated to maintain the streamlined look. A NEFF Slide&Hide® oven was installed at eye level. Positioned near the kitchen door, its unique sliding door ensures the walkway remains clear while allowing easy access without bending. The washing machine was fully integrated behind cabinetry, keeping the overall design sleek and cohesive.

Perhaps the biggest surprise addition was a slimline dishwasher, something the Cooks had always assumed they didn’t have space for. Clever planning allowed it to be incorporated into the island, and it has quickly become one of their favourite features.

The result is a kitchen that feels effortlessly stylish but, more importantly, works beautifully for the way they live. Thoughtful design, subtle adjustments and careful project management have transformed the space into a shaker-style cashmere dream, proof that sometimes it’s the smallest changes that make the biggest difference.