In dramatic response

When the majority of the interior design scheme is simple and uncluttered, there's an opportunity for one area to step out vigorously.

Interior designer Hilary Loh of 2nd Edition took up the challenge in the kitchen of this high-end apartment where most of the living spaces are variations of a single colour, texture and pattern.

Because the kitchen is located along the rear wall of the open-plan living and dining area, Loh felt that stronger colours in this area would not compete with the view which is one reason an uncluttered design and subtle colours were used in the rest of the space.

"To add character and interest to the room, we chose a strong, dramatic ebony timber veneer for the front faces of the cabinetry. The veneer was extended past the kitchen to integrate it with the entry foyer and living area. Full-height, floor-to-ceiling cabinetry and wall panelling mean these spaces flow seamlessly together," says Loh.

To maintain the clean lines, most appliances are integrated into the cabinetry.

Reflective surfaces, used in the living space to add lustre and sophistication, are repeated in the kitchen. The benchtop on the island is fabricated from a slab of highly polished black granite, and a waterfall feature intensifies the contrast between the benchtop and the glossy white marble floor.

A reflective layer formed by a mirrored backing panel on the 2.9m-long breakfast bar makes this large island appear light and semi-transparent.

"A solid, non-reflective panel here would have made the island look heavy and dominating in the overall space. Instead, the mirrored surface reflects the dining table and the swimming pool outside the living area," says the designer.

Made from the same dark ebony veneer as the cabinetry and wall panels, a sliding door conceals a wet kitchen. As a point of difference from the main kitchen, the colour scheme here was reversed.

"Because of the different style of cooking that takes place in this kitchen, it needs very practical, functional surfaces. A light-coloured laminate surface on the cabinetry is easier to wipe down, and dark tiles on the floor are more forgiving than the white marble used in the main kitchen," says Loh.

The wet kitchen has its own sink, gas cooktop and rangehood, but no microwave or refrigerator. Living quarters for staff open off this area.

Story by: Mary Webb