Somer Kitchen at Balbougie Steading

Project Info

This kitchen embodies the intersection of modern design thinking and traditional craft, with each component engineered for disassembly and longevity, allowing for reconfiguration, repair or reuse.

Balbougie Steading is the restoration of a near derelict group of farm buildings in Fife, designed with a commitment to environmental sensitivity, responsible sourcing and low-impact construction. 

Installed in the central interior space within the converted stable, the Somer Kitchen embodies the same rigour and care as the wider build, seamlessly integrating sustainable materials with modern family living.

Comprising a demountable timber cabinet system, the kitchen blends standard and bespoke elements. Douglas fir cabinetry brings warmth and contextual continuity, while stainless steel worktops offer durability and a crisp, utilitarian finish. The freestanding nature of the system allowed precise tailoring to the space and the family’s needs, without the cost or material wastage typically associated with full bespoke design.

Built by skilled craftspeople, the system uses a combination of solid and cross-laminated timber panels for strength and stability. Mechanical connectors replace adhesives and permanent fixings, enabling precise joinery while ensuring the kitchen can evolve with the needs of its users.