Country fare

Rustic cabinets, granite surfaces and simple, chunky forms make this kitchen fit with its rural environment

Dispaly shelves are placed above the cabinets next cabinetry, countertop, cuisine classique, flooring, interior design, kitchen, real estate, room, brown, gray — Dispaly shelves are placed above the cabinets next to the door. This adds to the country style of the kitchen, as it references the look of the antique dresser.

The kitchen overlooks Akaroa Harbour in Christchurch. architecture, cabinetry, countertop, estate, home, house, interior design, kitchen, real estate, sink, window, brown, gray

Using the homeowners existing stock of timber, designer cabinetry, countertop, cuisine classique, interior design, kitchen, property, real estate, room, brown, gray

When you are miles away from the hustle and bustle of the city, there is little need for glamour, and a country view might take precedence over your home's interiors. Natural materials and a toned-down look are just what's needed to fit with a rural landscape.

The owners of this home required a highly functional kitchen. Using an existing stock of lumber as a starting point, Sue Jackson of Jackson + Jackson Architectural Design created this visually warm, country-style kitchen.

"The oak and macrocarpa cabinetry lends a sense of coziness and simplicity that reflects the clients' lifestyle. High-end appliances, such as the commercial-grade stove, are installed for ease of use," she says.

The kitchen is part of the living wing of this one-story house. Consisting of an open-plan family, dining and kitchen space, this wing is angled to face the harbor view.

"The kitchen sink is set below the windows, so that tasks can be carried out while enjoying a spectacular vista," says Jackson.

To reduce clutter and mess, a walk-in pantry contains the refrigerator and food stores, as well as an extra sink.

Crockery cupboards are fitted with frosted glass doors. This contemporary touch adds a sense of transparency to the look of the wood, and echoes the windows on the opposite side of the room. Next to the windows is access to a sheltered garden patio, where meals can be enjoyed al fresco.