Easy entertainer

When a new kitchen replaces an existing one during a renovation project, it's likely that some compromises will be required. However, by changing a few details such as the position of doors or windows or the way people move through a space, such concessions can often be minimised.

Designer Keith Sheedy was asked by the owners of this home to replace their old and outdated kitchen.

"Their brief began as a simple kitchen renovation, but once they outlined what they wanted, the scope of the project grew," says Sheedy.

One of the owners is a keen cook. She wanted good appliances, including three ovens and a large hob, and plenty of pantry storage.

"The only way to equip the kitchen with all the appliances and storage space required was to increase the size of the room and, in particular, create additional wall space. This meant we had to find some more floor space, change the layout and stop the kitchen from being used as a passageway," Sheedy says.

A door from the kitchen to the terrace and garden was removed and new windows were added. Doors into the family and dining rooms were moved and some space taken from the family room. A casual eating area was also relocated.

"With the structural work, and by changing the pedestrian flow, we created enough additional wall space for the extra storage and appliances the owner wanted."

A sliding window replaced the door from the kitchen to the garden, allowing food and drinks to be easily passed to the outdoor eating area. Access to the garden is now from the dining room next to the kitchen. Family and guests pass from the family room to the dining room and garden without walking through the kitchen. With the extra floor space, the kitchen was wide enough to include a central island. The owner says the island is one of the strengths of the design.

"It's the focal point of the kitchen for the whole family and is convenient when I'm cooking large quantities or for laying out platters when we're entertaining," she says.

To create an illusion of space, the island is on legs and finished in a lighter shade of green than the remainder of the kitchen cabinetry. As well as providing natural colour, the parquet floor introduces a feeling of warmth to the space and is comfortable underfoot.

"I wanted a colourful kitchen that would also be restful and wouldn't date quickly. Keith Sheedy suggested using green, which is in keeping with the age and contemporary style of the house. The green tones combine well with the stainless steel appliances and glass to create a modern look," she says.

The floor level in the kitchen is a short flight of stairs lower than the adjoining family room. One of the problems with the old kitchen was the lack of connection between the two spaces. Now, a glass partition provides a visual connection and allows the owner to easily converse with and see other family members.

Because of the amount of cooking the owner does, hard-wearing and practical materials and appliances were specified. Benchtops around the perimeter of the kitchen are granite and the island is patterned stainless steel. The kitchen includes a microwave and convection oven, a multi-function oven and a third oven. The 90cm Gaggenau hob has a ceramic plate, one wok and two standard gas rings and a steamer.

Skylights were added to the high, raked ceiling to increase the flow of natural light. Blinds can be drawn across them on hot days to reduce the heat.

Story by: Trendsideas