Pivotal role

Traditional Californian bungalows built in the 1920s invariably comprised separate living and dining rooms with stand-alone kitchens. But, thanks to their robust architecture, they are good candidates for refurbishment.

This remodelled Californian bungalow has undergone two transformations in the past 16 years, both designed by architect Gordon Moller. The latest renovation was designed to further open up the interior, to provide a seamless link between the formal and informal living areas with a new kitchen positioned at the centre.

The homeowners say they have long been enamoured of New York loft-style interiors and wanted a design that would convey a similar feel.

"Like a loft, the space is effectively one large envelope, with different zones for different activities," says Moller. "The loft reference is also evident in the simple material palette and the new structural elements, which have been left exposed."

The look extends to the kitchen, which is built almost entirely from stainless steel.

"I believe it's acceptable to introduce contemporary elements to an older house as long as you respect the essence of the original," says Moller.

In this project, the restoration of the traditional windows and flooring ensures the character of the house is maintained.

Moller says the kitchen, built by Trend-Wood Kitchens, was designed to unify the space, with the 5.2m-long island playing a pivotal role.

"This is the nerve centre a place to cook and prepare food, and a place to socialise with friends and family. At 1300mm wide, it is extra deep as well as long, providing a very generous space."

Moller says the island, which sits on narrow legs, is designed like a piece of bespoke furniture. Its elevated position makes it appear to float above the floor. The uninterrupted expanse of flooring allows the entire area to be read as one continuous space.

"This was never intended to be a hidden kitchen, but rather a key visual element within the overall living area."

Stainless steel drawers equipped with the latest high-tech hardware systems provide a bank of storage along the kitchen side of the island.

"Everything has been designed with ergonomics in mind," says Moller. "There is no cupboard-style storage, for example. Instead, all the storage is provided by large drawers that glide easily."

The sides and front of the island have a subtle transparency. Drawers and shelves are concealed behind sliding sandblasted-glass doors framed with dark-stained American ash timber. Visually, this is a warm palette that helps to balance the crisp look of the stainless steel. Negative detailing beneath the island benchtop also helps to lighten the effect.

Russell Shaw of Trend-Wood Kitchens says the granite benchtop is set within a 50mm-deep stainless steel framework. The benchtop is also characterised by a long trough, which has a slotted stainless steel grille and drain. This can be used to store oils and spices near the cooktop, or herb plants that can be watered easily.

In addition, the benchtop incorporates a retractable extractor behind the cooktop, and pop-up power points.

The rear wall of the kitchen, which is also clad in stainless steel, presents a solid bank of cabinets, with benchtop space for small appliances.

"This wall was designed to have a more substantial look," says Moller. "As well as providing space for the large appliances, there is platter shelving, and a door leading to a utility room. This functions as a servery that can be used for catering."

Story by: Colleen Hawkes