New penthouse kitchen with curved island and wood veneer upstand with metallic finish

Penthouse apartments invariably have great views, and these are even more spectacular with a beachside location.

The interiors of such apartments are usually designed to complement the view rather than compete with it. They also tend to reflect the high-end nature of the architecture, and be well suited to entertaining on a grand scale.

This new penthouse in Terrigal, NSW, meets all these criteria. With its spacious, open-plan living area that flows out to a large terrace, the apartment epitomises contemporary luxury and a relaxed lifestyle.

Not surprisingly, there is a sleek, high-end kitchen designed for easy entertaining. Designer Rob Brown of Styline Kitchens, who worked alongside interior designer Bev Gibson, says the owner wanted the kitchen to be warm and inviting and an integral part of the interior design.

"The owner also required a separate bar and coffee area and a butler's pantry. It was also essential that the sinks be hidden from sight."

To this end, Brown designed a long, curved island that mimics the shape of the wave-like balconies on the building. It also echoes the arc of the curved suspended ceiling directly above.

"A cantilevered benchtop at one end helps to lighten the perceived mass of the unit," Brown says. "We also introduced LED lights to the base and recessed the toekicks further than usual to give the illusion that the island is floating."

A large veneer upstand follows the curve of the island. This blade wall has an Axolotl metallic paint finish that replicates silvery waves. On the other side, Styline Kitchens added a curved engineered stone splashback, with mitred edges providing a crisp, professional finish.

The Corian island benchtop and engineered stone perimeter countertops are teamed with lacquered cabinets with a high-gloss finish. Drawers have recessed finger pulls to enhance the flush, streamlined look, and feature Hafele Nova pro Crystal inserts, full-extension runners and soft-close systems.

To maximise the great ocean view, Mirastarmirrored glass from Aspex Splashbacks was specified for the rear wall. This ensures people sitting at the island can enjoy the reflected view.

"We chose Aspex Splashbacks' mirrored glass product as this is specially toughened," Brown says. "It is highly durable and can withstand the heat and humidity that a cooktop creates. This glass has a slight grey tint that helps to minimise glare."

The same mirror glass also forms a full-height splashback in the drinks area, which is often referred to as the barcino a term coined by the interior designer. Floating timber veneer shelves in front of the mirrored glass create an eye-catching display.

The barcino has a Vintec wine cabinet that stores wine at the right temperature and humidity, and a matching drinks refrigerator for cold drinks. Other appliances in the kitchen include a bank of Miele ovens and coffee maker.

Brown says Styline Kitchens also designed and manufactured the three bathrooms in the penthouse and the timber veneer joinery for the home theatre beyond the kitchen. This features a gas fire and television.

The bathrooms incorporate cantilevered vanities in a timber laminate. In addition, the master ensuite bathroom has a large mirror recessed into a special niche.

Story by: Trendsideas