Cherry on top

Specifying earthy colors and raw timber is a popular design technique that connects an interior with the outdoors, or brings a sense of nature inside. But when woodland is at your doorstep, you can turn it around and bring bold pattern and color to your interior.

With a house in a tree-filled setting, this family of four did just that they asked kitchen designer, Katrina Luxton, of Royston Wilson Design, to incorporate color and whimsy into their kitchen and dining area extension.

"The clients sought a practical but colorful space that would be hard-wearing, with plenty of storage," she says. "They also wanted an island countertop that could adapt on a daily basis, according to the family's needs."

Luxton's design went further in addition to an island, she specified a mobile unit made from licorice-colored Laminex. This unit can be an upstand over the island, placed at 90 degrees to create extra counter space, or moved around and used as a sideboard or homework area.

The clients also wanted to be able to enjoy the views from anywhere in the kitchen. Luxton added a full-length window that runs between the work surface and overhead cabinets, and doubles as a backsplash.

"Now the family can look out on the woods from any seat in the kitchen, making this space a real retreat."

To ensure the kitchen stands out against the views, the cabinetry is finished in bright floral patterns and colors. A dark speckled concrete floor, chosen for its ability to withstand wear and tear, pulls the palette together.

The kitchen is lined with storage, which includes a half-pantry next to the refrigerator with pull-out drawers, and a dresser-style unit with lift-up Blum Aventos doors.

Glass slots in an internal wall draw the view back to the main interior, connecting the kitchen extension with the rest of the house.

Story by: Frederique Gulcher

Photography by: Andrew Ashton A kitchen and dining room addition is full of color