FAVOURITE BOOKS: The deVOL Kitchen
English country kitchens like Devol Kitchens and Plain English were inspiraiton for me back in 2012 when I designed my own kitchen in our 1850’s East Coast home. Clients are also often forwarding me their pins and screen grabs of deVol Kitchens as style references for their kitchen renos too, and not just in heritage or century homes.
The deVOL Kitchen company recently releaed a book documenting the philosophy of the founders and the evolution of their now iconic line of kitchen cabinetry and fittings. I was gifted the book for Christmas (thanks Santa!!) and have spent many hours this past winter, every chance I could, cozied up by the fire devouring its pages.
The deVOL design style is one rooted in craftsmanship and utilitarian function inspired by the unfitted kitchen furniture of the Victorian and Georgian period. Cabinetry that is built with furniture quality details constructed in a simple shaker style and dressed in historical colours makes it equally suitable in a rural country home or a graceful Georgian row house.
Minimal ornamentation, simple details and natural materials give the style longevity and the ability to mix well with other elements to change up its personality.
In the book each of the three deVOL partners expressed various philosophies about kitchen design that truly resonated with me. Their views about design, the perfect kitchen and timeless craftsmanship are ones that I share their perspective on.
Paul O’Leary: On the perfect kitchen - “Here is my perfect kitchen. … the room should be at the back of the house, which would ideally be south facing. A southeast-facing window would let in great light in the morning for a breakfast table, a south-facing window would be ideal for the kitchen sink and a southwest-facing wall would be perfect for some french doors out to the garden.”
We definitely share the same vision of a perfect kitchen. Mine has always been one with morning light for a cup of coffee, late day sun, a view above the sink and a walk-out to a garden. More than the kitchen finishes or fixtures, the kitchen’s location in the house (in regards to natural light, views, and its flow with adjacent spaces) has always been the most important factor to me - if that’s off it will never be your ‘perfect’ kitchen no matter how much effort you put into improving it. Similarly, if the kitchen has an ideal location even if you don’t love the finishes and fittings its location and views can still feel bright and inviting and a space you enjoy spending time in. Getting this right is the crucial first step.
Robin McLellan: On Craft - “I am particularly interested in functional objects that are there to fulfil a purpose but are nonetheless beautifully designed and made”.
I’ve long believed the little things, things like a flush floor vent, or light switch or hand forged hook that are not meant to be focal points or make grand statements, but its the thoughtful and beautifully designed mundane things that often bring you the greatest pleasures in a home.
Helen Parker: On Style - “I strive for an aesthetic that looks uncontrived and casually thrown together, even if the reality is quite different.”
I couldn’t chose just one quote from Helen Parker that resonated with me because everything she expressed stongly aligned with my own views and approach to interiors, from working the potential of existing spaces, to avoiding trends, and using antiques - her take on style just happened to be a short one to share. I’m still far from finished reading the book but I’ve read most all of her sections and can’t wait to read the rest.
I’ve added it to my growing collection of favourite design books here, where you can also learn more about the book.
