The Very British Edit #2: The Perfect English Kitchen
The Opening Note
As Digital Editor at Homes & Gardens, I’ve spent years immersed in the world of interiors – curating designer projects, exploring celebrity homes, and uncovering the details that make a house feel truly lived-in. Across the US and UK, I’ve seen firsthand how history, craftsmanship, and character can transform the everyday into something extraordinary – and nowhere is this more apparent than in the heart of the home: the kitchen.
For the second issue of My Very British Edit, I’m indulging one of my greatest passions: the English kitchen. There’s something inherently satisfying about the way British kitchens weave heritage, craftsmanship, and personality into every corner. It’s not just about function – it’s storytelling. From hand-painted cabinetry to expertly crafted details, every element reflects care, tradition, and a quietly confident aesthetic that feels timeless yet effortlessly lived-in.
What I love most about the English kitchen is its balance between warmth and practicality. It’s a space meant for real life – for cooking, gathering, and sharing meals – yet it always carries a sense of history. Whether it’s the nod to classic Agas and range ovens, the patina of a Belfast sink, or the understated charm of brass taps and timber cabinetry, these kitchens are rooted in a lineage of design that has evolved over centuries. They carry echoes of the rustic farmhouses, the stately homes, and the country cottages that have inspired generations of cooks and makers.
Creating an English kitchen isn’t about following a strict formula – it’s about layering personality, legacy, and craftsmanship. Open shelving, glazed cabinets, and hung copper utensils turn everyday tools into decorative statements. Muted sage greens, dusky blues, or warm pinks paired with natural timber floors or stone countertops add warmth and depth. Every detail, from hand-painted joinery to bespoke furniture-style cabinets, contributes to a space that feels curated, authentic, and timeless.
For me, the English kitchen is more than just a kitchen trend or style – it’s an experience. It’s where meals are made, memories are shared, and design truly feels alive. And in a world of fleeting trends, that blend of personality, heritage, and timelessness is something worth cherishing.
(Image credit: deVOL Kitchens)
The Edit
McGee & Co.
Nevelyn Fringed Tablecloth
Wedgwood
Red Splendor Plate
H&M
Butter Dish With Glass Cover
Lulu and Georgia
Trusley Kitchen Island
Le Creuset
8-Qt. Enameled Cast Iron Signature Oval Dutch Oven
Mason Cash
Mason Cash Embossed Mixing Bow
Denby Pottery
Denby Studio Blue Coupe Medium Plates
Dualit
Dualit Newgen Classic 2-Slot Toaster
Spotlight: Falcon Enamelware
(Image credit: Falcon Enamelware)
Few brands capture the enduring spirit of the English kitchen quite like Falcon Enamelware. Simple, functional, and quietly beautiful, its designs remain as relevant today as they were a century ago.
Founded in the Black Country near Birmingham, Falcon Enamelware was originally crafted by Joe Kleiner & Sons, who created the now-iconic ice-white enamel with a blue rim. Instantly recognizable, it is a true British design classic – embodying the perfect balance of utility and timeless style.
For me, Falcon represents everything I love about the traditional English kitchen: heritage, practicality, and a respect for materials that stand the test of time. Its enamelware, with porcelain fused to heavy-gauge steel, is as durable as it is elegant. It may chip, but it never breaks – and with age, it only grows more characterful.
When the brand was reimagined in 2011, with sturdier mugs, fresh colors, and modern cookware sets, it managed to evolve without losing its soul. Like the English kitchen itself, Falcon Enamelware blends craftsmanship and longevity – a reminder that beauty often resides in the everyday objects we use and cherish most.
What’s especially delightful is how Falcon’s legacy is now crossing the Atlantic. Available in the US, its enamel mugs, bakeware, and mixing bowls are finding their way into American homes that aspire to capture the charm of a true English kitchen. It’s proof that craftsmanship – like good design – travels well, carrying with it a quiet sense of heritage, warmth, and enduring appeal.
Falcon Enamelware
Falcon Enamelware Prep Set, 6 Items
Falcon Enamelware
Falcon Enamelware Small Tray – Pigeon Grey
Falcon Enamelware
Bake Set
Falcon Enamelware
Falcon Oyster Gray Enamelware 3 Pint Pitcher
In the Queue
Next week on The Very British Edit, I’ll be turning my attention to one of the most timeless elements of the home – wood. Old or new, dark or pale, the warm and tactile nature of timber ensures it enhances any home. From well-loved furniture to everyday objects, wood brings natural beauty, enduring practicality, and a quiet, lived-in charm that makes a space feel truly inviting.
I’ll be exploring the pieces that showcase wood’s versatility and character – the ones that grow more beautiful with age, tell a story, and feel like old friends. Whether it’s a sturdy table, a cherished chair, or a small household object, wooden staples embody the comfort, craftsmanship, and heritage that define a home filled with personality and warmth.
The Very British Edit is a shoppable guide to beautiful living with a distinctly British twist. From heritage patterns to timeless decor inspirations, each edition blends personal insight, design expertise, and a love of craftsmanship. It is stylish, trustworthy, and endlessly inspiring.
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