Sustainability and luxury are not mutually exclusive, and at Ornate Kitchens, we have proven just that. In collaboration with Q New Homes, we have designed and installed a series of beautiful, bespoke kitchens and interior spaces within one of the United Kingdom's most forward thinking, environmentally conscious developments: Hartdene Barns in Kent.
This exceptional project does not just tick the usual boxes. It is designed to meet the RIBA Climate Challenge 2030, positioning it up to fifteen years ahead of current UK building regulations. With its emphasis on long term energy efficiency, high levels of insulation, and sustainable, low impact materials, Hartdene Barns sets a new benchmark for what sustainable living can and should look like.
A Smarter Approach to Modern Homebuilding
Behind the development are brothers Damien and Michael Wynne of Q New Homes, who believe too many new homes are built with a short term mindset. Most developments still prioritise quantity over quality, they say. They use materials that are cheap and carbon intensive (steel, concrete, plastics), difficult or impossible to recycle and poorly insulated, leading to inefficient homes.
Instead, Q New Homes have taken a radically different approach. Working as both developers and main contractors, they have led their in house team to create nine beautifully constructed net zero homes. Every detail has been carefully considered to reduce environmental impact, without compromising on comfort, aesthetics, or performance.
A Kitchen That Reflects the Values of the Home
At the heart of one of these remarkable homes is an Ornate designed German handleless kitchen. Featuring a tactile blend of anthracite woodgrain and light oak cabinetry, the space balances warmth with a sleek, contemporary feel. Clean lines and minimal detailing speak to the development’s architectural style, while ensuring durability and long-term appeal.
Key design features include:
• Caesarstone Cloudburst quartz worktops with full height splashbacks and mitred end panels
• Premium appliances by V ZUG, including oven, microwave, and steam combinations
• Kaelo wine cooler for energy-efficient, temperature-controlled wine storage
• Quooker tap, 1810 sink, and recessed LED lighting for practicality and style
These carefully selected details contribute to a kitchen that not only looks beautiful, but actively supports the home's sustainability goals.
Practical Spaces, Beautifully Executed
The utility room has been designed to echo the kitchen’s visual language while offering practical benefits. It provides:
• Additional workspace and hidden storage
• Smart organisation to keep everyday essentials out of sight
• Energy-efficient finishes that match the home’s overall ethos
Elsewhere in the property, our team created tailored solutions for TV rooms and boot rooms, fitted with custom cabinetry for storage and style.
Bedrooms, where we installed luxury wardrobe furniture by ALF Da Fre, complete with:
• Oak effect doors
• Recessed black handles
• Integrated LED lighting for atmosphere and functionality
Each room has been thoughtfully designed to enhance the flow and character of the home.
Craftsmanship That Goes Beyond the Kitchen
While the kitchen forms the heart of the home, we believe luxury should extend to every corner. That is why our involvement went far beyond one space. Throughout Hartdene Barns, we created:
• Bespoke media units
• Boot room storage
• Seamlessly integrated cabinetry in key living areas
These additions bring a consistent, elevated design language to the entire property and ensure functionality and beauty go hand in hand.
Timeless Style, Built to Last
True sustainability is about more than the materials used. It is about creating spaces that will continue to serve their purpose and inspire joy long into the future. That is why we focused on neutral palettes and natural textures, simple, elegant forms and finishes that avoid short-lived trends
This approach reduces the need for unnecessary renovations and ensures every space retains its charm and usability over time.
Working With Visionary Developers
Collaborating with Q New Homes has enabled us to push the boundaries of what sustainable interior design can look like. Together, we created homes that are efficient, responsible and beautifully tailored to modern living.
It is a partnership built on shared values, careful planning, and a passion for quality. We are proud to have played a part in this pioneering project and look forward to what the future holds.
At Ornate Kitchens, we believe sustainable homes should inspire and perform. If you are planning your own future-proof space, we would love to help.
Visit our showroom or contact our team to start your journey.
To learn more about this pioneering development, visit the official Hartdene Barns listing from Move Revolution. You can also read what the national press is saying in the Daily Mail’s exclusive feature on Britain’s greenest new builds.
If you’d like to discover more about our contract partnerships, simply click here.