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Inspiration

The Harbourage Kitchen

Reconfiguring a 1920s property for modern living

 

At Shaws, we believe the sink is more than just a functional item – it's the heart of the kitchen, a place where practicality meets enduring design. We were delighted to see how our classic Waterside 600 sink took centre stage in the stunning renovation of The Harbourage, a charming 1920s property in Mistley, Essex, built by the barge builders Horlocks of Mistley. Located close to the small market town of Manningtree on the River Stour, it features a distinctive front veranda that reflects its period character.

The owners' vision was to bring this 1920s rendered property up to date for modern living by reconfiguring the ground floor to create a generous, open-plan kitchen, dining, and living space. Working with Churchill Brothers, the project was a study in balancing classic architecture with contemporary demands for flow and functionality

The new kitchen is a testament to timeless design. The homeowners opted for elegant in-frame Shaker cabinetry, finished in the warm, neutral tone of Little Greene Mochi and complemented by Colonial White quartz worktops and burnished brass hardware.

Images credit: Churchill Brothers

Shaker style cabinetry creates a timeless feel

The design was deeply influenced by the architecture of the new, flowing open-plan space. The focus became maximising storage and function while maintaining an open feel, with the kitchen featuring an Ilve range cooker and a central prep table island topped with a solid oak block worktop – a warm, textured focal point perfect for gathering and preparation.

As the homeowner shared, "I have always loved Shaker kitchens for their timeless feel. They flow beautifully through to other spaces in the home, exuding warmth." This commitment to a classic, enduring style is what made the choice of a Shaws sink the perfect complement.

The Shaws Waterside Sink has a beautiful bow front design

For a kitchen built on quality and longevity,  the sink had to match the standard of the bespoke cabinetry and high-end appliances. The homeowner chose the Shaws Waterside sink specifically for its beautifully proportioned design and handcrafted feel. Its elegant, gently curved front was a key element in the decision, chosen to subtly soften the clean, crisp lines of the Shaker cabinetry and quartz worktops.

This single-bowl design was selected for its clean aesthetic and generous internal capacity, offering the perfect blend of simplicity and practicality for a busy family without cluttering the worktop.

A Perrin & Rowe Langbourn tap perfectly with the Shaws fireclay sink

The placement of the sink was as considered as its design. It sits proudly along the main run of cabinetry, directly beneath the garden window. This was a natural choice, not only placing it perfectly within the kitchen's efficient working triangle – between the cooker, the island, and the dishwasher – but also elevating the daily task of washing up.

Positioning the Waterside under the window bathes the area in natural light and provides a calming view of the garden, turning a simple chore into a moment of enjoyment. Paired with a Perrin & Rowe Langbourn Monobloc Sink Mixer, the sink and tap combination is so attractive that it contributes to the overall aesthetic flow; visible and admired from the hall.

The Harbourage project proves that by selecting products known for their quality, timeless appeal, and craftsmanship, such as the Shaws Waterside, homeowners can create a beautiful, functional kitchen that will truly stand the test of time.

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