Defined by space A 1960s-era apartment updated by Archetype

In the early years of the 20th century, as more and more people began to run their households without the help of servants, architects such as Frank Lloyd Wright responded by designing houses with progressively more open layouts, which developed into the open-plan style of living that many of us prefer today.

Architect Alan Berman, principal of Archetype, was tasked with carrying out a remodel of the feature property that would include the amalgamation of the kitchen, dining and living areas.

"The apartment was in its original condition when my clients bought it, so it had the usual complaints of an outdated layout and poor storage," says Berman.

"The kitchen, which was a separate, enclosed space, suffered most. To improve the area, the walls separating it from the living and dining rooms were removed and the footprint enlarged slightly."

The new kitchen peninsula parallels the original walls, with a slight excursion into the living area. Storage has been increased along the side wall.

"At 10ft by 14ft the kitchen is essentially the same size as the original; however a structural column had to be accommodated, necessitating an additional storage area of 5ft along the side wall, which houses the refrigerator and pantry units."

Despite the column bisecting the kitchen, Berman says the project proceeded without incident.

"In all, it was a fairly straightforward undertaking. The clients knew what they wanted to achieve, and we had carried out a similar updating of another apartment in the same building, so we were prepared for any quirks that were thrown up."

The owners wanted to create a contemporary living space that kept comfort and amenity to the fore. Crisp lines and sleek finishes have been augmented with textural additions such as the stained walnut cabinetry, iridescent glass tiles and oak flooring.

"The material palette has been carried throughout the apartment, which imparts a sense of cohesion.

"However, there is an added element of definition for the kitchen. The two-part bulkhead, which from a practical position conceals a beam and houses the recessed lighting, helps to visually delineate the kitchen area from the remainder of the space," says Berman.

With its new, more accessible layout providing for an improved lifestyle, the open-plan space is now greater than the sum of its parts.

Story by: Trendsideas