A compelling connection

Designed by Bijl Architecture

Architect statement:

The original poorly lit 1975 lean-to addition in this home was demolished, replaced by Bijl Architecture with a new kitchen, dining and living area opening to a large deck. A clean, minimal approach was taken, with whitewashed Tasmanian Oak flooring, and bifold doors opening the room completely to the timber deck, lawn and pool beyond.

With the original hallway extended to fan out into the generous open plan living space, the clients asked that the everyday living spaces be flexible and robust, with excellent passive design principles in place.

The clients requested that the new kitchen be both convenient to the open plan space and outdoor deck, while avoiding being ‘on show’ from the main circulation spaces and becoming dominant in the open plan area. In answer, our strategy was to position the new kitchen in the northeast corner of the room, making the kitchen discreet yet sizeable and highly functional. The taller kitchen elements , step-in pantry, fridge, storage – were placed along the edge of the upper level hallway, with a ‘glass panel’ allowing light and a balance of visual control and connection between the kitchen and hallway.

Overhead cupboards and timber veneer shelves to the northern wall are punctuated by the long slot windows, contrasted by the painted brick wall, tiled splashback and the single continuous timber shelf above the sink area. Integrated appliances fit in cleanly with the simple cabinetry design.

The light coloured L-shaped benchtop is contrasted by the island and breakfast bar design, with the custom concrete benchtop centering the kitchen space, its substantial presence controlling the circulation flows and functions. Copper pendant lights focus and proportion the space, and create material interest in the space.

Story by: Trends

Photography by: Peter Bennetts