Feature cabinetry finishes make this entertainers kitchen a stand-out design

A modern, hard-working kitchen needs every ergonomic advantage but it also requires that special something that lets it stand out from the crowd. Distinctive, stave cladding makes the difference here.

A major renovation of this home gave the owners the chance to extend their existing living space, says designer Kira Gray.

“However, the couple by no means wanted an ordinary kitchen and wondered how they could draw on the influence of their European travels – where they had been interested in the use of vertical staves in buildings, and in organic materials.”

The new design also had to link with the outdoor entertaining to the rear of the house and face the sea views to the front.

Overall, the space had to be both sleek and enduring, and function well with two avid cooks sharing the space at one time.

“To maximise living space, the kitchen was relocated to the corner of the room,” says Gray. 

“We designed the kitchen in an L-shape, with an island, for easy access and to provide plenty of storage.”

Gray positioned the tall cabinetry along a side wall, including a large pantry with stainless steel benchtop concealed behind a sliding door. This offers an added work station plus storage for small appliances.

“To create the individualistic aesthetic required by the owners, the tall side wall of cabinetry and three sides of the island are clad in random vertical Tawa staves. The sustainable 3D treatment adds depth, texture and warmth, and provides the European accent the owners wanted.”

The rear wall is home to all the cooking appliances and a second sink – in addition to the island sink. A window splashback admits natural light and opens up views to the rear garden, while the open living spaces ensure views forward to the sea

In addition, the charcoal underbench cabinetry has a slate top, offering a strong backdrop to the island and co-ordinating with the room’s black joinery.

At the opposite end of the island to the hang-out breakfast space, a stainless steel benchtop partly waterfalls down to shape a display unit, painted charcoal at the back. There is also a bar fridge in this vicinity.

“A modern, honed white marble slab with soft grey veining provides the stand-out feature island benchtop,” says Gray. 

“The predominant white surface contrasts with the textured stave doors and cladding and also links with the crisp white walls. The veining connects with the charcoal cabinetry and slate benchtop behind.”

Story by: Charles Moxham

Photography by: Kallan MacLeod