Clean as a new pin

A kitchen that's a prominent part of the living area can place a great strain on the main cook in a family. Continually putting things away, keeping meal preparation tidy and dirty dishes out of sight can be a real burden.

The couple who own this old villa have several children and a dog, and wanted a kitchen that looked clean and simple, but that was also highly functional and easy to keep tidy.

The new kitchen, designed by Shane George, is part of an extension that includes a living space and large outdoor entertainment area. Foldaway doors on the cabinetry and a large scullery directly behind the main work area ensure that small appliances and cooking preparations can be hidden from view at a moment's notice.

"The owners wanted a minimalist look, so we have used white finishes on every single surface in the kitchen, including the old timber floorboards, which are painted white," says George.

Foldaway doors on cabinetry along the rear wall of the kitchen open up to access to the ovens and breakfast pantry; the fridge is integrated and a fourth cabinet is for china storage. On the island are the hob, double sinks, a dishwasher and, accessed from the other side, a bar fridge.

Behind the main kitchen, access to the scullery is through doors at each end of the rear wall. The doors are in the same style as the cabinetry so they integrate seamlessly. At one end of the scullery are a stainless steel benchtop, pantry, second dishwasher, freezer and open shelves. The washing machine, drier and baskets for clean clothes occupy the other section of the scullery below the bench. A back door leads out to the clothesline, and a shower and toilet have also been fitted into this area.

To provide further concealed storage space, a false wall to one side of the island includes a built-in television, wine racks and cupboard space for wine glasses. It is close to the island bar fridge so drink preparation can take place without going right into the kitchen.

"In the original design, there was no wall here. However, the false wall creates a private hallway to a bedroom. Additionally, the television only uses part of the width, which left enough space to create a storage cupboard behind doors on the hall side. It also screens the computer and home office from the kitchen," says George.

Story by: Mary Webb