THE KITCHEN of Aravon House has a subdued classic look in keeping with the period of the house.

The handmade kitchen with black granite worktops came from Chalon (01-283 5525) and cost around €60,000.

It's an interesting mix of warm ivory units and antique pine corner presses with a distressed section over the range for an aged look.

The darker presses blend in with the baroque solid French oak table from Minnie Peters, that cost €7,295 (01-280 5965). It has three leaves and can extend to accommodate 12 people. The Amtico parquet floor came from Clerys (01-294 17 10). The leather-covered chairs were bought in Hamish and Hawkins & Co in Kinsale (021 6706956)

The walls are painted in Farrow & Ball Slipper Satin and the white Rangemaster - which adds to the country kitchen effect - came from the Gas Company and cost from €2,229 (1890 818 918).

The mahogany antique library ladder, bought from Mullens (01-282 6107), is handy for getting up to high presses and will cost around €300-€500 at auction.

The clock came from Avoca (01-286 7466).