A modern kitchen with an island bench in an open-plan holiday home.

A kitchen designed for a vacation home will often combine a social feel with an understated aesthetic that won't detract from the views.

This kitchen forms part of a vacation retreat designed by Utz Sanby Architects. Co-director Kristin Utz says the owners wanted a workspace that would be warm and welcoming with ample storage. But most of all, it had to connect with and celebrate the beautiful environment.

"The island, fronted in blue-gray zinc with rich wood framing, is central to this connection. The metal brings an artisanal emphasis and will develop a patina over time, complementing the colors of the vegetation and sea. The zinc also tones with the exterior siding that wraps over into the living space to form a feature wall."

Presenting a warm contrast to the metal, the spotted gum edges on the island also chime with the interior the floorboards, ceiling beams, and window and door frames are in the same wood.

"Rather than a continuation of the millwork, the island has been designed as a stand-alone piece of furniture to meld with the living areas."

The long kitchen provides ample storage and counter space, while its orientation makes the most of the views in both directions.

Story by: Charles Moxham