Divide and rule

In a new kitchen project, material and colour options can be dictated by many imperatives and the desire to optimise natural light is one. However, balance is key. While prominent pale surfaces will reflect the sun and bring a brighter air, dark tones in recessed areas can bring drama without robbing the kitchen of illumination.

The hues for this project were led by neutral floor tiles sourced by the owners, who wanted an entertainer's kitchen in keeping with the rest of the house. A restrained colourway was part of this, says designer Keith Sheedy.

"Several elements were brought together for a balanced appeal. Glossy white two-pack island cabinets have wraparound counters in grey-beige engineered stone. These surfaces connect with the back-painted glass upper wall cabinetry," says Sheedy. "Away from the windows, I added a contrasting bank of Macassar veneer cabinetry. A similar, near-black cabinet wall also neatly divides the living and dining areas."

Originally the islands were conceived as one long unit, but as there was no way to avoid a join in the stone benchtop over this distance, it was reconsidered as two stations. This layout not only improves circulation around and along the kitchen, it also creates a natural separation of functions. The island with the breakfast bar is used for prepping, while the other island, set opposite the living area, is designed for plate storage and serving the dining area beyond.

Being an entertainer's kitchen, most of the kitchen clutter is kept well out of sight of the living spaces. There is a pantry in the dark cabinetry, which is also home to the integrated refrigeration. To the right of this cabinetry there is a door to the substantial scullery. This has a dishwasher, and a custom refrigerator that can accommodate large platters.

All the essential working elements of the kitchen are tucked out of sight, with the rangehood concealed in the central panels of the glass-backed cabinets.

"Besides cooking functionality, masked by an abstract, decorative appearance, the kitchen provides an internal corridor that runs through the house, culminating in a floor-to-ceiling slit window that brings additional sunlight into this area," says Sheedy.

Story by: Charles Moxham

Photography by: Andrew Ashton Divide and rule This kitchen has two islands bringing increased utility