A farmhouse kitchen rooted in craft and countryside

In the heart of the Surrey Hills, interior designer Gretchen Trusted, founder of Shake The Sky, has transformed a characterful Garde II listed farmhouse kitchen into a warm, functional and deeply personal space. Light-filled and inviting, the kitchen celebrates craftsmanship, thoughtful detailing and the charm of the surrounding countryside.

Earlier this month, we spoke with Gretchen about this project and her approach to design. After starting her career in finance as a management consultant, she retrained as an interior designer, bringing a structured, problem-solving mindset to her creative work. Gretchen’s signature style combines practicality with personality, whether in contemporary coastal builds or classic London townhouses, she always aims for interiors that are elegant, timeless and uniquely tailored to those who live in them.

A historic farmhouse in the Surrey Hills

This Grade II listed farmhouse in the Surrey Hills already had rich character, from exposed beams to stone fireplaces. Some contemporary alterations had felt disconnected, so the design aimed to restore cohesion while keeping the space liveable for modern family life.

A double-height kitchen, added in the early 20th century, became the heart of the project. Well-lit and uplifting, it was further enhanced by replacing a heavy staircase with a contemporary design, improving flow without intruding on the farmhouse’s character. Sweeping views over the distant hills informed the layout, celebrating light and space rather than the darker, enclosed feel typical of period farmhouses.

Designing for warmth, family life and practicality

The client wanted a kitchen that was warm, colourful, and uplifting year-round, while also functioning effortlessly for both relaxed family suppers and lively weekend gatherings. Achieving this balance began with the layout: breakfast items were tucked into a separate cupboard to prevent congestion, and kitchen designer Thomas Ford introduced a hidden pantry behind traditional cabinetry. When closed, the kitchen reads as elegant and uncluttered; when opened, it reveals a highly functional workspace. Durable painted timber cabinetry and composite surfaces ensure the room is both beautiful and built to withstand daily family life.

Why Patisserie tiles were the perfect fit

Gretchen selected our hand painted Patisserie Elodie tiles in Sage Green for their craftsmanship and subtle variation. The gentle irregularity complements the farmhouse’s character, creating depth and movement across the splashback. Paired with bespoke joinery and natural finishes, the handmade tiles elevate everyday functional areas into something quietly special.

Materials and timeless character

Every material balances practicality with warmth. Texture, colour and finish work alongside cabinetry and worktops, while tactile fabrics and hand painted surfaces enhance the sensory experience. A restrained palette of muted greens, soft greys, chalky whites and gentle blues, combined with table-style islands, dresser-style cabinetry, burnished bronze ironmongery and tongue-and-groove panelling, adds layers of quiet character.

The result is a kitchen that feels authentic, welcoming, and enduring, honouring the farmhouse’s past while supporting modern family life.

Thank you to Gretchen Trusted for sharing the story behind this Surrey farmhouse kitchen. Her talent for blending craftsmanship, personality and practical family living is inspiring, proving that considered design is about creating mood and livability as much as visual appeal. Explore more of Gretchen’s work on her website.

Discover our hand painted Patisserie collection.