Modern and moody

Designed by Leonie Hamill, Cube Dentro

From the designer:

This kitchen forms part of a contemporary home in Karaka, Auckland. Picturesque water vistas soften out the home’s dark colour palette and striking architectural lines of concrete tilt panel and vertical cedar.

The homeowners’ wanted a kitchen that could comfortably have multiple people in the space at any given time. Plus a scullery was a prerequisite to support their enthusiasm for cooking and hosting large groups.

A cooktop was not important to the occupants, instead the emphasis was on selecting the perfect oven in terms of both function and form. 

So the hob is small by comparison to many kitchens, but was still very much part of the plan.

The dining table is a statement piece in the room, equipped to host generous dinner parties of up to 20 people. 

Essentially, the kitchen design had to complement this striking piece of furniture and take the scale of it into consideration.

In addition, the angles and height of the ceiling were further factors to think about when designing the space.

To overcome these challenges, we introduced full height cabinetry that would embrace rather than conflict with the ceiling profile.

As the house is ultra contemporary, the challenge to stay in keeping with this style was addressed by applying consistent cabinetry across the kitchen, scullery, media room and study.

The cabinetry’s dark, broody hues echo the nature unfolding outdoors and match the exterior materials used on the building.

The aluminium framing around the kitchen cabinets has been a real highlight for the owner. 

This continues across the study and media room too. Much precision was required in the installation of this feature.

Story by: Trendsideas

Photography by: Kallan Macleod