My Husband and I were tired of our old and outdated kitchen and..

This is a great example of making the most of classic features – in this case, big sash windows and the chimney breast complete with classic Aga.

The room was quite dingy, with yellow walls not helping matters, so my husband was keen to brighten it up and fit in as much storage as possible for the family of five without blocking any light.

Before:

By Amanda Pollard – See more Home Design Photos

After:

Photo by Planet Furniture – Browse kitchen ideas

We designed an L-shaped kitchen with an island and a large dresser on the other side of the room, all painted green to connect with the foliage in the garden. White woodwork, walls and worktops help to maximize the daylight.

Photo by Planet Furniture – Browse kitchen photos

She also included pendant lights over the island, but chose a simple clear glass design so as not to block the view of the windows.

Photo by Planet Furniture – More kitchen photos

But the centerpiece of the room is the beautifully reconditioned Aga. Alina made a feature of it by adding a mantelpiece above, painted in the same rich green as the units to tie it into the scheme, and backing it with pale pink tiles to brighten the chimney niche and draw the eye.