It's party time

Whether you have small children, a grown-up family or like to entertain friends, a large island benchtop will never go amiss. It is likely to be a favourite place for breakfast and homework after school, it provides a convenient worksurface for family meals, a buffet when you're entertaining, and in a subtle way, separates the working zone of the kitchen from the rest of the family area.

Designer Judy Cooksley organised the modern kitchen in this David Reid Home around a large, uncluttered island. Most of the appliances are grouped along the back wall, creating a specific cooking zone for the kitchen. However, because preparation and cleanup are more likely to happen on the island, the dishwasher and microwave have been neatly tucked out of sight below the benchtop.

"We selected the appliances for this kitchen from Smeg's latest collection," says Cooksley.

"I particularly liked the appearance of the gas hob. The cast iron pan-stands over the four burners are shaped like crosses, which is very contemporary. And the fact that all four burners are in a single line along the bench adds to the look."

The finish on the oven complements the silver colour of the cabinetry and the cream benchtop.

Another convenient new appliance from Smeg is the horizontal, fully integrated 90cm-wide single-drawer dishwasher. With space for 12 place settings in the one drawer, it is good for entertaining, and there is a left or right wash option for smaller loads.

Smeg also offers a large 618-litre side-by-side refrigerator and freezer, which includes a built-in icemaker. To help keep fresh food in the best possible condition, the refrigerator also comes complete with two large vegetable and fruit crispers and a chilled meat keeper.

For more information on appliances in the Smeg collection, visit the website: www.applico.co.nz.

Story by: Trendsideas