The kitchen is a space that is no longer static, as built-in cabinetry is being relegated to the past.
Neptune is an English interiors brand recognised for its attention to detail, use of natural materials, and design approach that stands the test of time.
It launched 30 years ago when friends John Sims-Hilditch and Giles Redman set up a business selling hammocks. In their first year, they sell over 5,500 hammocks, taking even them by surprise.
They then turned their attention to garden furniture and eventually got into the kitchen business, inspired by a design in Sims Hilditch’s own home.
From solid oak tables to hand-painted cabinetry, Neptune’s collections continue to be shaped by heritage. The considered furniture is designed for longevity.
Now, after decades of painted kitchens, the company has developed Borough, a classic contemporary suite of mid-century-inspired furniture that you can move around a space, and take with you should you want to move.
Made of blonde oak and all free-standing, there’s not a shaker door in sight.
Fitted with appliances, each piece - from the cooking island to sink cabinet and pantry - has been designed to sit independently or together, to give homeowners a fluid, more informal approach to cabinetry.
Anchoring the collection is the cooking island, a design with legs.
It is a cross between a cook’s table and the bulkier cuboid seen in many contemporary designs.
Featuring rounded edges, practical drawers and a marble top, it is voluminous enough to accommodate an undercounter oven and an induction hob above and costs €6,885 to order, from stockists.
A second island option has a slimmer profile that references the farmhouse kitchen table in look.
It costs €4,290.
The larder takes its inspiration from the Edwardian pantry and features space for countertop appliances, comes with spice racks on the doors and more shelving below.
It is discreet enough to inhabit the lounge area of an open-plan space and costs about €6,615.
There’s a washstand, complete with Belfast-style sink, shown here to sit adjacent to the sitting area in a way that is very discreet.
This set-up won’t suit everyone, but it really shows how well these free-standing pieces fit into the existing fabric of a home in a way that is far less intrusive than a fully fitted design.
A more traditional way to style it is shown here.
It costs about €6,000.
The other pieces in the range include pan drawers, about €2,920, a wall cabinet, about €1,350 and a step stool, about €330.
You can view Neptune’s new Borough range here.
