Bush baby! This sleek kitchen maximises exposure to its surrounding natural world

This kitchen is ergonomically designed as a practical workspace. However, beyond its efficiency and sheer good looks, its other driving agenda – natural connections to its bush environment – is well answered

The island in this kitchen was designed without

This panoramic window becomes a panoramic splashback in

Recessed pulls on the cabinetry optimise ease of

Always nice that the wine fridge is near

Utility space with quite a view. Even the

Designed by Damian Hannah, German Kitchens

The homeowners were renovating their native bush surrounded home in rural Ohariu Valley and required a functional yet open kitchen that accentuated the endless greenery outside their windows.

As part of this, they requested high overhead cupboards so they could stand at the main bench and watch the native birds fossicking in the bush.

To further maximise the owners’ view of the native environment I positioned both the cooktop and the sink along the back wall so the view can be admired from both areas.

The island was designed without any services so it could be used for all serving and preparation as well as for informal seating.

The tall wall is recessed away from the main view. However, this is easily accessed and includes the integrated separate refrigerator and freezer, the ergonomically positioned ovens at the same height and also the pull-out pantry, which flows into the walk-in scullery.

The scullery is designed to maximise the surrounding bush aspects. This includes the wine and beverage fridges and plenty of bench space for baking and preparation as well all required small appliances. The scullery also benefits from plenty of natural light.

The cabinetry was manufactured to a unique specification with a High Gloss Diamond Grey Glass surface to reflect the natural environment, while the colour was chosen to tie in with the bush tones.

The individual Dekton benchtops were designed to soften the colours and textures and also add some softness to the overall scheme.

Native timber flooring was specified to warm up the space and, as with the cabinetry, connect with the native timbers that surround the home.

Careful consideration was given to the lighting and this was all designed to work with the abundant natural light and lineal design to accentuate and illuminate the space.

The rustic existing timber beam was exposed in the design to sit over the top of the island and add a memory echo to the existing old barn that was on the property.

Lastly, aluminium ventilation grills were positioned under and above the tall cabinetry to allow the required ventilation and airflow for all the integrated appliances.