Lime green and charcoal cabinetry creates a crisp look in this modern kitchen
A vibrant colour scheme, dedicated drinks drawers and layered worksurfaces make this kitchen an entertainer's dream

Often in a design there's one leading element that draws the eye. In this contemporary kitchen, a feature is the eye-catching splashes of green but that's only one wow factor of many.
This kitchen's the hub of a renovated family home and the brief called for a high spec kitchen with plenty of features to impress, says designer Chris Moore, managing director at Mackay Kitchens (MKS).
"The owners often do their entertaining around the kitchen bench' so they wanted this to accommodate casual social gatherings as well as informal family meal times," Moore says.
In response, the island and benchtop have prominence in the design. The expansive solid oak benchtop provides table space while the lower granite bench behind allows for food prep to be done by the hosts while chatting to guests. The raised front bench features crafted finger joints and offers a warm counterpoint to the vibrant lacquered lime green seen on the island, rear cabinetry and internal pantry bench. The balance of the cabinetry is a deep charcoal.

"As storage was important in this kitchen, we created the large step-in pantry in the corner to house small appliances as well as food."
However the bulk of the storage comes from the bank of under-counter drawers to the rear that runs almost the full width of the kitchen. Bathed in natural light from the windows, the benchtop in this area is in practical stainless steel.
Again with a mind to entertaining, there are two electric push-to-open drawers at the front of the island. These were custom built to house wine glasses and tumblers, with internal LED lighting included as added extravagance.
"Another unusual element in this design is the corner countertop cabinet," says Moore. "This operates like a sash window when you raise one panel, the other moves too, meaning only two shelves are seen at any one time. The arrangement means you can swap from display shelves to storage shelves with one action."

A wine fridge and utility nook also had to be included and these are tucked behind a newly installed wing wall to the side of the workspace.
"Overall, this kitchen achieves a generous, welcoming feel and the tall mirrored toekicks under the rear run of cabinets add to the overall sense of spaciousness," says Moore. "The feature lighting cluster positioned at one end of the island was designed by the owner."
Credit list
Designer
Cabinetry hardware
Floor
Splashback
Taps
Cooktop
Refrigeration
Wine fridge
Cabinetry
Benchtops
Lighting
Kitchen sink
Oven
Ventilation
Dishwasher
Awards
Story by: New Zealand TIDA Kitchens
Photography by: Jamie Cobel
For more than 30 years, Trends has promoted great home design ideas through its print, digital and online media.The Trends International Design Awards – TIDAs – take that involvement to the next level with the search for the best kitchens, bathrooms and homes across a number of the countries where Trends has a presence.
Robin Hood would have approved
Thanks to our Associate Sponsors – 2021 TIDA Kitchens
New light toned kitchen emerges from design rethink
Home Trends Vol. 33/2
The design of your home is the result of your style preference, your requirements – and the influences of your site. The best way to get you started on your planning is to gather together as many inspirational ideas as possible. So to help you create the home, kitchen or bathroom you've always wanted, we’ve collected some of the latest design and product ideas in this issue of Trends.