New twist on tradition

A renovation project can provide an opportunity to opt for a very different kitchen style. But that was not what the owner of this house wanted. Her kitchen, in a new extension, needed to reflect the original character of the double-brick Edwardian home.

Kitchen designer Royston Wilson says the owner wanted a traditional country ambience, but the kitchen also needed to be well organised and free of clutter.

"The pared-back country look is a growing trend," he says. "This is not so much about the decorative corbels and mouldings that once characterised traditional kitchens. It's more about providing a clean-lined, no-nonsense country feel."

For this project, antique-white vinyl-wrap cabinets with simple panel doors provide the required look. The L-shaped cabinetry hugs the perimeter of the room, providing a sense of symmetry in keeping with the era of the house.

Two appliance cupboards topped with glass display cabinets bookend the cabinetry, while open shelving visually softens the ends of the overhead units. Providing a place to display the owner's collection of teapots and Wedgwood china was essential, says Wilson.

"The cabinets and shelving ensure these decorative elements don't clutter the kitchen. The collection also helped to determine the overall colour theme the blue wall and the blue inset tiles echo the colours of the china."

Wilson says the inset tiles provide a simpler, more subtle look than an all-over patterned splashback, which would have overpowered the room. Similarly, the Venus Crystal granite is a subdued choice for the main benchtops, but it picks up the colour of the cabinetry.

Other traditional features include an imported English ceramic double sink, freestanding Ilve cooker, Tasmanian oak floorboards and a recycled timber benchtop on the island.

"The island is wider than standard, with accessible cabinets on both sides," says Wilson. "This means items that are used when entertaining, such as glasses and crockery, can be kept near the table."

Functionality has also been provided in many other areas of the kitchen. The drawers feature soft-closing technology and extension runners for ease of operation. And the corner pantry is designed so it resembles a walk-in pantry a design that lends itself to country-style kitchens, says Wilson.

"The owner has introduced furniture items, including an antique pine table and chairs, and a dresser, that further reinforce the traditional feel," he says.

Story by: Colleen Hawkes