Heritage Kitchen Renovation

Our clients approached us to renovate the kitchen of their beautiful 1880s Georgian stone residence in Gawler South. From the moment they saw the home come onto the market, they fell in love with it and decided to make it their forever home.

They are deeply passionate about heritage architecture and appreciate the soaring ceilings, light-filled rooms and character of the property. With this in mind, they sought a thoughtful kitchen redesign that would honour the history of the home while improving its functionality for large family gatherings, especially during the holiday season.

From Vision to Reality

Our clients were clear about what they wanted for their new kitchen. Above all, they envisioned generous high-level storage, a statement Falcon cooker and a rolling library ladder to access the upper cabinetry. They strongly disliked the existing dark timber floor, so replacing it became essential to achieving the lighter, more inviting space they had imagined.

Having worked with Brilliant SA on two previous renovations, they trusted our process to bring their vision to life. Our Design Specialist carefully considered how to blend practicality with heritage charm in this circa 1880 home.

Expert Care for Century-Old Home

Given this is a century-old home, structural considerations were always part of the journey. Fortunately, renovating heritage residences is our specialty, and we understand how to carefully strengthen them while preserving their integrity. We reinforced the floor structure, stabilising the frame so it could confidently support the new tiled surface for decades to come. We also replastered uneven walls to achieve true, straight surfaces, ensuring flawless cabinetry installation. In addition, we reworked the chimney alcove internally to accommodate a large rangehood and provide proper ventilation for the Falcon cooker.

Timeless Details and Finishes

We began by increasing storage while maintaining the existing layout. With 3.8 metre ceilings, we extended the cabinetry to 3.3 metres high and introduced additional joinery in the opposite corner, therefore creating a more balanced and highly functional space.

Storage became a defining feature of this kitchen renovation. Custom cabinetry 2-packed in Antique White USA, finished with brass nickel handles, delivers both capacity and character. To fully utilise the impressive ceiling height, we introduced a rolling library ladder, allowing access to the upper cupboards.

The joinery on the opposite wall to the window was thoughtfully designed to neatly store the grandchildren’s highchair when not in use, fulfilling one of the client’s most important requests. In addition, we incorporated two Blum Space Step drawers with recessed plinth storage, offering a practical and discreet solution.

The built-in wall storage functions as the pantry, Blum Space Tower with inner drawers and adjustable shelves, thereby ensuring organisation is both efficient and intuitive.

Honouring Heritage Through Thoughtful Design

To honour the home’s heritage, we layered classic detailing throughout. We began by establishing a strong architectural framework. Shaker doors, crown moulding, and decorative corbels around the mantel introduced a confident traditional presence. At the same time, the impressive ceiling height was complemented by a rolling library ladder that provides practical access to the upper cupboards while reinforcing the period character of the space.

The design embraces the soaring ceilings and natural light, creating a space that feels both grand and inviting. The chimney alcove now serves as a striking focal point, framing a Falcon Classic Deluxe freestanding cooker in Mineral Green.

Layer by layer, materials were chosen to complement the home’s story. The fireclay butlers sink in matte white pairs beautifully with Routleys tapware, forming a practical yet refined workspace. Traditional style cabinetry, finished with dull brushed nickel handles and knobs, adds understated heritage detailing. Glass-fronted cabinets soften the design while displaying cherished pieces. The handmade look splashback tiles add texture and light, while the new floor tiles brighten the room. Recessed LED lighting and glass-door cabinets provide the final layer of warmth.

A Kitchen for Generations

The clients were absolutely delighted with the result, sharing that the kitchen delivered everything they had hoped for and more. Above all, they feel the style belongs effortlessly within their Georgian home. They especially love how the morning light streams through the window, softly illuminating the space and creating a warm start to the day.

They often mention the simple pleasure of enjoying a morning coffee surrounded by sunlight in their new kitchen. Every detail has been appreciated, from the Falcon cooker to the generous butler’s sink that easily handles pots and pans after family meals. During Christmas, the kitchen proved its worth, hosting extended family gatherings with ease.