Minimalist family kitchen with black wall cabinetry and wood-framed island

In terms of design presence, less can be decidedly more, as this kitchen by owner-designer Annika Rowson demonstrates.

"The brief to ourselves was to design a functional kitchen that would blend into the open-plan living space," says Rowson. "It had to have a furniture-like appeal, yet also service the needs of a busy family."

Mid-century modern was the influence for the kitchen's aesthetic, in keeping with the home's architecture so simple, clean lines and natural accents were important.

In response, Rowson created a galley kitchen, with a matt black back wall that all but disappears from sight. This lets the generous 4m-wide feature island with white herringbone tile front stand out.

"The island's crisp Corian countertop in Cirrus White sits on a Keruing frame with slab ends. This rich-toned wood adds a natural touch and complements the floor-to-ceiling sheer white curtains," says the designer. "The herringbone tiles balance the cool polished concrete floors, and add an artisanal touch these were all individually laid by hand.

"My favourite feature, however, is the custom reflective suspended brass hood."

Then there's the kitchen's sheer wealth of functionality. The rear wall conceals an integrated fridge-freezer, a pantry with a pocket door and five storage drawers, and a breakfast-entertainment bar backed with the same herringbone tile as the island.

The island has its own share of discreet functionality, too, with a flush induction hob, dishdrawers, storage, recycling and a sink. The sink's Corian sides blend with the countertop when viewed on an angle.

Story by: Charles Moxham

Photography by: Gina Fabish