Change for better new kitchen for terrace house

Victorian terrace houses have charm and character in abundance, but they were never designed to cater to modern lifestyles. Updating such homes with a contemporary extension has become a common practice, but it's not always at the expense of the original character.

This Victorian terrace house, extensively remodelled by Woollahra Constructions to a design by architect George Loupis, has retained its sense of tradition. Original mouldings and detailing in the existing house were reinstated. But a brick lean-to at the rear was demolished to make way for a new extension accommodating a kitchen and living area.

Kitchen designer Steven Tambouras of Woollhara Constructions says there is a clear transition between old and new.

"The extension is very simple and clean lined, in contrast to the more ornate interior of the original house. It is also light and airy, with sliding doors opening to a courtyard."

Tambouras says the limestone floor tiles provided the starting point for the kitchen design. The walls were painted to match the tiles, and this colour in turn was used to choose a suitable stone for the benchtops.

"As soon as we saw the Grigio Imperial marble with its distinctive grey veining, we knew it would be the ideal solution," he says. "It adds character to the kitchen, which is an exercise in simplicity."

The large island features 20mm benchtops and waterfall sides, with the marble installed to give the appearance of an extra-thick top. The island accommodates the sink and dishwasher and provides plenty of storage. A grey quartz splashback and touch openings on the grey lacquered cabinetry, including a row of overhead cabinets, keep the look flush and streamlined.

Additional storage is provided by a pantry at one side of the kitchen, which features 950mm-wide doors, more drawers and shelving.

Story by: Trendsideas