Face of change

Renovating an enclosed kitchen in an open-plan area means looking closely at the spaces around it. The colour palette may need to relate to existing colour schemes, but introducing feature finishes, or even unusual lighting effects, can be enough to create an individualistic feel.

This kitchen project was part of an extensive renovation of a home looking out over a pristine harbour setting, says designer Pauline Stockwell.

"To maximise the views, the client opened up the living areas, and took down the walls of the original kitchen," says Stockwell. "Opening up the existing kitchen and incorporating the hallway left a long, narrow space the perfect setting for a large 4m x 1m island."

The kitchen island is the main focal point in the living area. A wenge table is attached to provide seating for young children.

Dark furniture is used in a retro theme found throughout the house and accordingly, cabinetry finishes are either dark wenge veneer or a moody, back-painted, merlot-coloured glass. The benchtops are a combination of textured stainless steel and engineered stone.

"The most eye-catching feature of the space is the front panel on the island," says the designer. "This is made from a Laser Grain panel, backlit by LED lights. Essentially, Laser Grain comprises strips of wood interspersed with resin strips that let light through from behind."

While the backlighting continues the use of the client's favourite colour, the glowing effect also gives the kitchen a futuristic, floating air. Lighting is emphasised in other ways, too. Black enamel pendant lights with red flex line up over the island, adding their own dramatic touch to the kitchen.

Another feature of the modern kitchen, and part of the whole-house makeover, is the dark cork tile floor. These tiles are quiet underfoot, easy to clean and an interesting use of materials in the space.

As with the cork floor, the kitchen balances looks with efficiency, offering ample storage and integrated, under-counter appliances.

"Overall, the kitchen renovation has made the space lighter and more modern, and allowed occupants of the kitchen to appreciate the views," says Stockwell. "We even realigned the height of the windows in the living area to sit level with the benchtops in the new kitchen."

Story by: Charles Moxham