Glamorous, clean-lined kitchen conceals a wealth of functionality

Designed by Jennie Dunlop, Dunlop Design

From the designer:

Context

Securing a cliff top position looking out over Pipimea Head to Rangitoto was a "once in a lifetime" opportunity for the owners to build their dream home. The contemporary sleek single level design including a cliff edge Infinity pool lends the home a feeling of being on holiday all year round. 

Kitchen design brief

The kitchen was to be sophisticated yet blend seamlessly into the open plan living space and suit a couples lifestyle when the owners are there alone. With one owner an avid cook, spaces needed to function well when three generations of family visited often to dine around the 10 seater table.

All areas were to be able to cater for large gatherings. 

The design solutions

The kitchen and scullery were laid out into three zones with enough space to allow for several people to work at once. The long, seamless wall of floor to ceiling brushed lacquered oak cabinetry houses crockery, a pantry, glassware, integrated ovens and refrigeration. 

This wall also extends into the scullery accommodating integrated under bench wine storage, a large on-bench appliance garage, sink, oven, bins, and a microwave – along with additional storage and shelving.

Centre stage in the main kitchen is the generous 3.6m island facing the view and this houses sinks, dishwasher, rubbish recycling bins and drawers.

The contrasting use of smoked dark stained oak cabinetry topped with soft toned honed quartz benchtops made for a great statement in an otherwise neutral palette.

The large raised block of matching stone including waterfall ends softens the view from the dining space. The rear 3.6m wall behind the island bench is designated for the induction cooktop with ample drawers below for spices, sharp knives, cooking utensils, pots and pans. 

The black mirrored splashback allows the reflection of Rangitoto to be viewed while cooking and at the same time creating a sense of expansion within the already generous space. 

(In contrast, the benchtops in the scullery are in soft grey engineered stone with a neutral glass splashback.)

Subtle LED strip lighting under over cupboards and toe kicks, and elegant Falling Leaf pendants over the Island add to the luxurious feel. 

The kitchen, surrounded by large open areas, was made more intimate by creating designated spaces to be utilised at various times during the day and evening. 

These include morning coffee in front of the island; breakfast/drinks at the island; dining in the centre of the vast space at the 3m long table; relaxing in the adjacent living area by the fire or in the cosy family room to watch TV or work. The end result is a cohesive and glamorous yet intimate and practical working kitchen.

Story by: Trendsideas