Fine balance

In a large home, the kitchen has to be all things to all situations. In the morning it might be the location of a hurried family breakfast. At midday it might be used to prepare and serve a casual lunch for friends, and when evening rolls round and the party caterers arrive, its function may change again.

This kitchen is a good example. As part of a large family home, it needed to fulfil a variety of functions and is designed to be a multi-purpose space," says Michael Munckton of Rosenthal, Munckton and Shields.

"On one hand it provides an intimate family breakfasting area, with seating and everything close at hand," Munckton says. "However, the family also enjoys entertaining so the space is laid out to allow five meals or 30 to be served out of the kitchen."

The kitchen has two ovens, for example, situated at opposite ends of the kitchen, and a large walk-in pantry. There are three sinks: one on the island, the second on the opposite bench, and the third in the pantry.

"Storage was an important part of the kitchen's multi-functional make-up," he says. "There is a place for everything, with drawers and cupboards offering niche storage options throughout. There are even drawers in the island.

"The kitchen forms part of an American Georgian home and furniture-like solid wood cabinetry blends with the greater living area," says Munckton. "Elements such as decorative display niches, a traditional open dresser, and pilasters all contribute to this look."

To further blend the kitchen with the living area, dishwashers, a large refrigerator and even the oven exhaust system are integrated into the panelling. Decorative tilework above the oven provides another traditional element.

"However, a few contemporary elements provide a subtle counterpoint to the overall traditional effect," says the architect. "The ovens and hob are in stainless steel and the cabinetry handles are also metal."

The kitchen is finished in muddied tones to augment the traditional feel and avoid standing out. The faded colour also provides an effective contrast to the kitchen's touches of stainless steel.