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In the past couple of decades, the kitchen has become so much more than simply a place to prepare food. Today, it is most likely to be the centre of an open-plan family living area, which means the way it looks is just as important as the way it functions.

The two projects featured on these pages, designed by members of the National Kitchen and Bathroom Association (NKBA), put the kitchen firmly in the limelight.

Designer Glen Johns, CKDNZ, of Glen Johns Design, New Plymouth, says the kitchen shown above is part of a major home renovation.

"The owners wanted their kitchen to have the wow factor," he says. "It needed to make a statement in its own right."

To this end, the kitchen features a large Corian island, designed to resemble a floating light box. Its strong horizontal lines are echoed by the shape of the rangehood, which presents another light box that appears to float in front of the window.

Sleek American white oak cabinets line the perimeter of the kitchen, complementing the timber that features elsewhere in the house. The benchtops are a mix of stainless steel and Corian.

The second kitchen was designed by Damian Hannah of German Kitchens, Wellington. Hannah says the owners, who have a love of contemporary architecture and European designer furniture, had their hearts set on a Poggenpohl kitchen. But the design wasn't entirely straightforward.

"Although the living area has a great view, the kitchen had very little natural light," says Hannah. "We also had to accommodate an extra-tall pantry and integrated fridge-freezer."

High-gloss lacquered cabinetry was specified in Spanish Red to provide a reflective surface.Hannah says the red also adds a lot of warmth, and is a very appetising colour.

Functionality wasn't compromised, however. The red cabinetry is 700mm deep, leaving a 100mm gap at the rear to vent air through two aluminium Lamella plinths.

NKBA executive director Nicki Mills says choosing an NKBA designer right from the start will ensure you get a kitchen that is in tune with your lifestyle. NKBA members also offer a safeguard they abide by a strict code of conduct.

For further information, contact the NKBA, phone 0900 4 NKBA. Website: www.nkba.org.nz.To contact Glen Johns Design, phone (06) 759 0940. To contact German Kitchens, phone (04) 802 4806.

Story by: Damian Hannah