The Kitchenette and Dining Nook
Seamlessly transitioning from the lounge, the kitchenette wraps elegantly along the eastern curve of the old vat. Crafting a kitchen without flat walls presented a significant engineering challenge, which Julian solved by utilizing flexible marine-grade plywood and custom-milled ash countertops. The result is a highly efficient culinary workspace where everything from the spice racks to the mini-refrigerator is perfectly recessed into the timber framework.
A deep copper sink sits beneath a porthole window, offering a picturesque view of the valley while washing dishes. Modern conveniences are cleverly disguised behind hand-carved cabinet faces, including a dual-burner induction cooktop that hides away under a removable counter section when not in use. This clever design ensures that the historical integrity and clean lines of the wooden interior remain completely uninterrupted.
Directly across from the prep area is a folding drop-leaf table that serves as a flexible dining nook for two. When tucked away, the area opens up the central walkway, allowing for smooth movement through the core of the home. Above the table, a floating shelf made from old distillery barrel staves holds ceramic mugs and jars, grounding the kitchen firmly in its rich, spirit-making heritage.