Modern Nobilia Handleless Kitchen with Island, South Zeal Devon

Completed by Kitchen Kit Exeter, this kitchen renovation in South Zeal, Devon transformed a traditional cottage kitchen into a bright, modern space while carefully respecting the character of the original property.

The project focused on improving layout, creating better flow through the room, and introducing a central island to make the kitchen more practical for everyday cooking and entertaining. By combining contemporary Nobilia handleless cabinetry with warm Sierra Oak accents and quartz worktops, the final design balances modern German kitchen design with the charm of the original stone features.

What were the goals for the new kitchen?

The homeowners wanted to modernise their existing kitchen and create a layout that worked more naturally for how they use the space. The previous kitchen had storage spread across different areas and the room lacked a clear flow between cooking, preparation and washing areas.

A key aim of the redesign was to introduce a central island while maintaining clear walkways through the kitchen. The new layout also needed to bring more light into the space and create a modern aesthetic that would sit comfortably within the traditional cottage setting.

What design challenges did we solve, and how?

One of the main challenges was designing around the existing fireplace area that had previously housed an Aga. Removing the Aga created an opportunity to rethink the entire layout and introduce a more practical cooking arrangement.

By moving the main cooking zone to the island and installing a venting hob, we were able to maintain open sightlines across the kitchen while creating a highly functional cooking area. The new layout also allowed the sink, preparation and cooking zones to work independently, meaning multiple people can use the kitchen comfortably at the same time.

Careful planning ensured the new design worked naturally within the existing architecture while dramatically improving how the space functions.

Which cabinets and worktops did we choose, and why?

To brighten the room, the client selected Nobilia handleless cabinetry in white with anti-fingerprint doors. This finish provides a clean contemporary look while being practical and durable for everyday family use.

To introduce warmth and character, Sierra Oak cabinetry was incorporated as an accent within the design, including a feature drinks cabinet with illuminated glass display units. This combination allows the kitchen to feel modern while still complementing the traditional features of the home.

The worktops are 20mm IQuartz Classic Carrara quartz, chosen for their elegant marble-inspired appearance and durability. The quartz surface works beautifully with the white cabinetry while providing a practical surface for cooking and food preparation.

Which appliances and sinks complete the look?

Following a visit to a NEFF cooking demonstration at the Kitchen Kit Exeter showroom, the client opted for a full suite of NEFF appliances to support both performance and design.

The island features a venting induction hob, which removes the need for a traditional overhead extractor and allows the island to remain visually open within the room. This helps maintain clear sightlines across the space while providing powerful ventilation for cooking.

The kitchen is completed with a Blanco Choice tap, selected after demonstrations in the Exeter showroom, offering a premium and highly practical addition to the sink area.

What finishing touches make everyday life easier?

The new kitchen layout prioritises flow and usability. With the cooking zone positioned on the island and the sink placed along the window run, the design allows different areas of the kitchen to be used simultaneously without interrupting one another.

Storage has been significantly improved through deep drawer units and tall cabinetry, ensuring everything has a dedicated place. The illuminated glass display cabinets within the Sierra Oak drinks unit also add a subtle feature element while providing practical storage for glassware.

The result is a kitchen that feels spacious, organised and highly functional for daily living.

How did it all come together in the end?

The finished kitchen successfully transforms a traditional cottage space into a bright, modern environment while retaining the character of the original stone walls and architectural features.

Introducing the island completely changes how the room is used, providing a central gathering point for cooking, entertaining and everyday family life. The improved layout allows the kitchen to flow naturally while delivering significantly better storage and usability.

The homeowners now have a kitchen that feels both contemporary and welcoming, combining modern design with the charm of their Devon home.

Claim Up to £1,950 Cashback on Kitchen Appliances

Inspired by this kitchen? Purchase three or more qualifying Bosch, NEFF or Siemens built-in appliances with your new Kitchen Kit kitchen and claim up to £1,950 cashback. Offer ends 30 November 2026. Selected appliances and full terms apply.

View the Cashback Promotion →

“We spent quite some time looking around at kitchens when it became clear we needed to replace our old range for cooking and heating. In the end we decided to start with a clean sheet, and we needed advice on how best to use our space. However, all the ideas we received basically took the existing kitchen and replaced everything like for like.”

It was only when we met Jake at Kitchen Kit Exeter that we found someone who was interested in what we needed and could think outside the box as to how we might alter the layout. He advised us on the different types of units and the best way to use our space. When we reviewed his first design, he took our (some would say idiosyncratic) comments on board straight away and went above and beyond to work out how we could get what we’d asked for before we left the showroom. Top-notch service.

The units arrived and the kitchen was put together in a matter of days. It was our builder’s first time fitting a Nobilia kitchen, but all went well. Jake returned to make sure everything was working as expected, and the result was a kitchen we love which we hadn’t even realised we wanted five months before.

We would have no hesitation in recommending Kitchen Kit and particularly the brilliant Jake to anyone looking for a new kitchen. Jake made the whole process easy, but most importantly, he listened to what we wanted and gave us the benefit of his experience.

Mike and Jane Jecks

Frequently Asked Questions

See all the latest ranges from
Nobilia, Ballerina and Masterclass at Kitchen Kit Truro and Kitchen Kit Exeter.
Our expert designers will help you explore finishes, layouts and features to create your perfect kitchen.