Heritage Restored: How Huckleberry Transformed a Kitchen and Pantry

At Marlborough Tiles, we love celebrating exceptional design projects that combine timeless craftsmanship, creativity, and heritage. One such project is The Priory, a stunning renovation led by Huckleberry. Brimming with history, this property required a design that honored its centuries-old charm while meeting modern-day needs. We spoke with Matt and Claire from Huckleberry to learn how they brought The Priory’s kitchen back to life, from bespoke cabinetry to the incorporation of our hand painted Delft tiles.

A Vision For The Priory

“The Priory is such a beautiful property,” Matt began. “But the kitchen area had been poorly renovated about 20 years ago. It felt disconnected from the rest of the house, which is full of character dating back three to four hundred years. Our challenge was to return that sense of history to the space while creating a practical, modern kitchen.”

To achieve this, Huckleberry leaned on their expertise in heritage design. “Our approach is to create furniture that feels as though it’s always been there,” Matt explained. “For this project, that meant designing a hybrid kitchen - a combination of freestanding and fitted elements, each perfectly tailored to the space. The result is a kitchen that looks timeless but works for today’s lifestyle.”

Huckleberry splashback — Matt and Claire paired our 13x13cm Aged Crackle Square tiles with cast iron studs for the splashback for a traditional look.

Why Tiles Were Key

Tiles played a crucial role in the redesign, adding character and a bespoke touch to the kitchen. The homeowners are passionate about Delft tiles and even collect them, so Huckleberry turned to Marlborough Tiles to create something personal and unique.

“Our client has a collection of Delft tiles, but traditional Delft blue didn’t quite work with the kitchen’s earthy tones,” Claire shared. “We worked with Marlborough Tiles to craft bespoke Delft tiles in a warmer manganese tone. They have a beautiful depth and richness that ties everything together.”

To make these tiles truly one of a kind, Claire from Huckleberry collaborated with our hand painters to design delicate corner motifs inspired by traditional Delft patterns. “We wanted something subtle and respectful of the heritage,” Claire explained. “It’s not over the top, but it feels completely unique to this home.”

Huckleberry pantry — The pantry features bespoke hand painted Delft Corner tiles painted in a warm manganese tone

The Studded Backsplash: A Nod to History

One of the kitchen’s standout features is the backsplash behind the range cooker. Inspired by historic country houses like Cornwall’s Lanhydrock, Huckleberry replicated the use of cast iron studs to secure the tiles in place - a detail that’s both practical and visually striking.

“We love drawing on history for ideas,” Claire said. “Cast iron studs were traditionally used behind large range cookers to withstand intense heat. We worked with Marlborough Tiles to create a bespoke tiled panel, complete with handmade studs. It’s functional, heritage-inspired, and completely unique.”

Huckleberry half splash back — *Matt and Claire paired our 13x13cm* *Aged Crackle Square* *tiles with cast iron studs for the splashback for a traditional look. Featured here alongside a bespoke* *Huckleberry* *kitchen and butcher's block.*

Celebrating Craftsmanship

For Huckleberry this project was about more than restoring a kitchen - it was about celebrating British craftsmanship. “We always work with artisans who share our passion for quality,” Matt said. “Whether it’s cabinet makers, stone masons, or Marlborough Tiles, it’s all about creating something that feels authentic and personal.”

This ethos resonates strongly with us at Marlborough Tiles. Our hand painted tiles are created using traditional techniques passed down through generations, bringing artistry and character to every space. “Your tiles are a perfect match for what we do,” Matt shared. “They bring a sense of artistry and craftsmanship that The Priory needed.”

Huckleberry kitchen backsplash — *Matt and Claire paired our 13x13cm* *Aged Crackle Square* *tiles with cast iron studs for the splashback for a traditional look. Featured here alongside a bespoke* *Huckleberry* *kitchen and butcher's block.*

Looking Ahead

When we asked Matt what’s next for Huckleberry he shared their focus on continuing to deliver truly exceptional projects. “We don’t want to do hundreds of kitchens a year,” he said. “Our focus is on hero projects - two or three a year - where we can create something extraordinary. It’s about working with clients who value timeless design, quality materials, and a love for British heritage.”

As for the bespoke Delft tiles, Matt sees a bright future for collaborations. “This project has shown just how well our two brands align,” he added. “We’ve already had clients asking about the tiles, and I think there’s so much more we can do together.”

Feeling Inspired?

Whether you’re restoring a historic property or designing your dream kitchen, our hand painted tiles bring beauty, character, and craftsmanship to every home. Explore our Delft designs, or get in touch with our team to start your own bespoke project.

Want to see more from Huckleberry? Discover their stunning work and learn how they craft kitchens that belong.