Black and bold, this kitchen makes a strong visual statement
Modern surfaces, up-to-the-minute cabinetry and advanced hardware all come together in this family and entertainer’s kitchen

Dramatic, black and beautiful, this kitchen by designer Rod Huizenga was the ideal response to the architectural home it forms part of.
“I have worked with the owner on several other projects and she likes to use the very latest products to make her kitchens as functional as possible,” says Huizenga. “In addition, she’s always keen to push the design boundaries.
“With this in mind, I took several approaches to melding the kitchen into its modern setting, such as selecting a black velvet cabinetry finish which adds an air of refinement to the design,” says Huizenga.
“I matched this dark surface with contemporary sleek benchtops and mirror splashbacks, which both reflect light and give a sense of space. Other material elements include, warm timber highlights and a polished concrete floor – giving the space a light-industrial feel.”

The island bench is naturally a focal point for entertaining, and so is a hero of the design.
“I suggested the use of a modern engineered stone for the island benchtop for a couple of reasons. Dekton was capable of creating the thinner edge we wanted and offers the convenience of being a completely heat proof surface,” Huizenga says.
“To create the end elements supporting the benchtop, I combined new timber frames with central panels made from leftover timber flooring. The natural wood tones also tie in with the use of wood in other areas of the interior.
The kitchen is decidedly uncluttered, with a wealth of dedicated storage and functionality tucked away in the tall cabinetry that lines the adjacent hallway and in a full walk-in pantry directly behind and accessed via the hallway.

“The floor-to-ceiling hall cabinetry utilises Concepta hideaway doors. When opened, these bi-fold doors slot back out of the way into the cabinet body. One set opens to reveal the breakfast prep zone complete with dedicated shelves and drawers, while the next set fronts a coffee station, with instant hot or chilled water on tap.
“The fridge and dishwasher are integrated, as are the waste bins. And in a final labour-saving touch, cabinets in the kitchen and pantry have space-saving, drawer-within-a-drawer systems. There’s even a retractable door on the oven.
“Modern features and dedicated zones make the kitchen ideal for family or entertaining.”
Credit list
Designer
Benchtops
Ovens
Dishwasher
Fridge
Tap
Floors
Awards
Cabinetry
Splashbacks
Cooktop
Rangehood
Sink
Hot water tap
Walls
Story by: Charles Moxham
Photography by: Anjie Blair
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