Bungalow makeover

Any house built in the 1930s has most likely been subjected to a number of alterations over the years. But these may not have addressed key issues, such as higgledy-piggledy layouts, uneven flooring, or a noticeable difference in ceiling heights.

When designer Celia Visser of Visser Design redesigned this kitchen, her first priority was to fix the underlying structure. An uneven floor was rebuilt, and bulkheads were designed to streamline the heights of the ceilings in the kitchen and adjoining living room.

The designer then turned her attention to the more aesthetic elements of the kitchen.

"The owners wanted the kitchen to have a contemporary feel, but it also needed to be sympathetic with the age of the house."

Visser says a new three-sided glass fireplace provided the starting point for the design. The fire, between the kitchen and living room, has a sleek, horizontal form, which is echoed by the square-edged shape of the island.

Black granite features on both the hearth and island benchtops. In addition, mitred granite edges frame a Malt Zebrano veneer on the island, creating a point of difference. The granite also provides a strong textural contrast to the veneer, as do four large, black-lacquered drawers on the front of the island.

"The Malt Zebrano was chosen as the best match to the owners' dark oak dining table," says Visser. "We continued the veneer on a computer desk and display shelving at the side of the kitchen."

To balance the dark veneer, white-painted cabinets were specified for the perimeter.

"We wanted to introduce a furniture style to these cabinets so they would provide a visual link with the bungalow style," the designer says. "Raised frames on the panel doors and drawers enhance this look."

The cabinetry includes a vertical, pull-out pantry, and a second pantry with a bench and power points for small appliances.

The cooking centre features a large range and a stainless steel splashback that was chosen for its ease of maintenance. Stainless steel also features on the perimeter toekicks, which conceal platter storage.

Story by: Colleen Hawkes