'Longing to return'

Designed by Leonie Hamill, Cube Dentro

From the designer:

The setting

As featured in Moving Houses on TV1, Clonbern Estate is a beautifully restored villa positioned on the Awhitu Peninsula. 

The site provides all the merits of a coastal & country lifestyle. 

Awhitu means ‘longing to return’ and formed the owner’s brief: “indulge family and friends with an exciting kitchen – a space where everyone will long to return time & time again.”

Design points

• Preserve the villa vibe – original hardwood flooring was retained, while bespoke cabinetry aligns with the character of a bygone era and also ties in with new French door joinery.
• Acknowledge its setting – the veining in the marble connects with the ocean, providing a sense of movement and waves.
• Add a twist – the elegant curved marble countertop and base breaks up the large island & provides visual impact and a sense of lightness – the sink and wall mounted tapware are discreet but part of the design story, keeping the countertop linear/crisp – a marble splashback contrasts with the island countertop – a bold use of colour and mixed textures (wood and marble) creates interest.

• Redefine an awkward layout – creating just one kitchen wall resolved this issue & works with the open-plan vibe.
• Create an innovative space entertaining – pendant lighting is practical & aesthetically pleasing for taking photographs and capturing special occasions – the entire space flows and is easy to food & party prep.
• Inject functionality – the central island is a practical dining arrangement – the scullery offers shelving, extra bench space and storage – integrated appliances are cutting-edge.

Designed by: Cube Dentro

Story by: Trendsideas

Photography by: Kallan MacLeod