Hip to be square

It's common practice to choose fixtures and fittings to complement the architectural design of a building. But this Sydney project goes one step further, matching cabinetry hardware to appliances for a fully integrated look.

Architect Denis Leech, the designer and developer of the Mondial Apartments in Sydney's northern beaches, says the kitchens needed to reflect the building's contemporary, minimalist aesthetic.

"It's a very square, very modern design," he says. "Introducing Fisher & Paykel Designer Series appliances was a way to reinforce the contemporary, square-edged look. These appliances also ensure the kitchens are perfectly integrated the Hettich handles on the cabinets are the same as those on the appliances."

Leech says he also specified Fisher & Paykel appliances as they are made locally, for the local market.

"I regularly specify these appliances as they are well built and reliable," he says. "I also appreciate the research and development undertaken by the company and the fact that the company can supply a DishDrawer, which is a real bonus."

Steve Reid of Fisher & Paykel says the dishwasher-in-a-drawer concept allows for easy, waist-height access, while providing a larger than expected capacity.

The apartment featured on these pages also showcases the Designer Series BI603MDE oven in Iridium stainless steel. This non-marking satin finish won't show finger marks, which makes it easy to keep appliances looking like new.

Reid says the oven is equipped with a range of innovative features, including new Quadro slide runners that allow the oven shelves to be manoeuvred easily.

"The oven also features the Aero Flow concentric louvre fan shroud, which ensures optimum heat distribution throughout the oven for even, efficient cooking," says Reid.

The oven is complemented by the Fisher & Paykel RH600SO slide-out rangehood, which offers either ducted or recirculating ventilation, and the Jet 6 gas cooktop. This cooktop, in Iridium stainless steel, features durable cast-iron trivets. Four gas burners deliver a uniform flame for precise heat control. The cooktop provides automatic electronic ignition and flame-failure protection.

The Fisher & Paykel Designer Series Iridium refrigerator is another stand-out feature of the apartment kitchens. This refrigerator features Active Smart intelligence, which means it continuously monitors and adjusts the flow of cold air, based on daily use and climatic conditions, bringing food to the desired temperature quickly.

It also features humidity-controlled vegetable storage bins designed to keep food fresher for longer. Reid says fruit can be stored separately from vegetables to maintain each bin at optimum humidity. Other features of this refrigerator include full-extension runners on the humidity-control drawers, and glass shelving to contain spills.

For further details on all Fisher & Paykel products, phone 1300 650 590. Website: www.fisherpaykel.com.au.

Story by: Trendsideas