Caesarstone 5212 Taj Royale and 4230 Shitake were chosen for this bright and contemporary kitchen in an East Sussex location house.
For creative director and stylist Charlie Davis, the journey of designing a kitchen in her newly purchased location house in Hastings, East Sussex, was both an exciting and challenging experience. Together with her partner, Piers, an art fabricator, Charlie crafted a space that embodies functionality and aesthetic appeal, with Caesarstone 5212 Taj Royale and 4230 Shitake at its heart. 
The decision to create a location house for photo and video shoots was driven by Charlie's extensive experience working in such environments, as well as the couple’s interest in renovating properties. Charlie and Piers carefully considered camera angles and open spaces to ensure the house was practical and photogenic from every corner. This thoughtful approach is evident in the design of their bright and airy kitchen – a look that is achieved with a natural colour palette and open shelves instead of wall units, providing space to display Charlie’s extensive collection of utensils. Another element that was meticulously planned was the placement of the hob on the island rather than the sink. This decision not only enhances the kitchen’s usability during cookery programs and photoshoots but also creates a social atmosphere during gatherings, allowing the cook to engage with guests.
The renovation was not without its challenges. Budget constraints necessitated a hands-on approach, with Piers applying his DIY skills to various tasks. Collaborating with local kitchen company Custom Fronts allowed for a tailored design that seamlessly integrated the kitchen with a bespoke seat bench built by Piers.
Structural changes were essential to achieving the desired aesthetic. The couple spent a long time perfecting the layout to ensure optimal functionality, including the installation of frameless windows that complemented the modern aesthetic whilst adhering to new building regulations and stairs leading into the kitchen featuring rustic tiles by Otto Tiles.
The choice of Caesarstone surfaces was integral to the kitchen’s design. To offer variety to clients using the location house, Charlie and Piers selected two different Caesarstone surfaces for the island and the rest of the cabinetry – 5212 Taj Royale and 4230 Shitake. 5212 Taj Royale features a sophisticated blend of delicate dark brown veins and touches of white, adding rich depth and soft movement to the surface. 4230 Shitake, on the other hand, combines swirls of light brown and grey, replicating the look and feel of a classic limestone.
When paired together, the two designs create a harmonious balance, providing texture and warmth. The subtle variation in the tones of the worktops grounds the kitchen design and beautifully complements the concrete floor, wooden units and black island, contributing to the inviting ambience of the space. Charlie explains: “We felt that a white marble design would be too stark, so we opted for Taj Royale and Shitake to add a sense of warmth. As a new extension, the space could easily look sterile, so we chose neutral tones and textures to create a more welcoming feel.”
Charlie and Piers also incorporated Taj Royale into a shelved area utilising leftover material to enhance texture and interest within the space. By maintaining the Caesarstone top, they ensured continuity with the rest of the kitchen design whilst creating a light and airy atmosphere with the addition of open shelves. This area now serves as a focal point for showcasing their collection of curated pieces gathered from around the world.
Reflecting on why Caesarstone was specified for the kitchen, Charlie notes: “We were impressed by Caesarstone’s variety of designs available. The brand also came recommended by our local supplier, which confirmed it was the right choice.”
Available in a wide range of designs to suit any type of interior, Caesarstone surfaces are renowned for their durability and ease of maintenance, crucial factors for high traffic areas. Designed to withstand the rigours of daily use, Caesarstone ensures lasting beauty and practicality, making it the ideal choice for homeowners and professionals alike who value both style and substance.
Ready to transform your kitchen into a stylish and functional space? Explore Caesarstone's catalogue to discover a variety of designs that marry beauty with durability, and order a free sample to experience our quality first hand.
Photography by Tim Young
