Redefining what’s possible in a compact kitchen

Designed by Natalie Du Bois, Du Bois Design

From the designer:

Brief

Set within a five-bedroom 1920s Arts and Crafts bungalow in Remuera, this kitchen renovation was designed to honour the home’s heritage while delivering a highly functional space for a couple and their three adult children, who return home during university breaks.

While daily use would primarily be by the parents, the space needed to cater to their trainee chef daughter, creating an inspiring and practical environment for her culinary pursuits.

Owner wishlist

• A classic, timeless interior
• A lighter, more dignified space with a touch of colour
• A high quality 1200mm wide oven and 1200mm fridge/freezer
• Two sinks – one a double
• No microwave
• Improved storage solutions
• A fresh and light colour scheme
• A high-functioning kitchen fit for a passionate home cook
• Create more flow

Design response

Within the 1920s Arts and Crafts home, the challenge of a compact, congested kitchen was met with a bold, innovative approach. 

At just under 10m², the existing space presented multiple design hurdles – a sloping, glossy timber ceiling; a low-set window, limiting bench space; and a single entryway from the main home, which restricted movement.

To meet the homeowner’s desire for supersized appliances without compromising functionality, a strategic spatial reconfiguration was key. 

A separate dedicated drinks area was created in the adjacent room, freeing up valuable kitchen real estate for food preparation, cooking, and dishwashing. 

To enhance flow, a second curved archway was introduced, reducing congestion and creating a seamless connection between spaces.

The challenge of the low window was transformed into a feature rather than a restriction. 

By integrating stone dropping down into the window base, the benchtop now flows uninterrupted between the hob and sink, maximising workspace and cohesion. 

At the narrowest point of the kitchen, sliding-door cabinetry was installed – an ergonomic innovation minimising obstructions in this high-traffic area.

Celebrating the home’s historic charm, the design embraces curved details, seen in the bespoke rangehood housing and intricately crafted cabinet handles, which pay homage to the era’s craftsmanship. 

A curated colour palette of soft pastel Resene colour Windblown Green, balanced with refined neutrals, breathes light and sophistication into the space, ideally complementing the iconic red knobs of the Wolf oven.

This project redefines what’s possible in a compact kitchen. 

By seamlessly integrating contemporary functionality with period character, the result is a harmonious, light-filled, and highly efficient space – crafted not only for daily living but also as an inspiring hub for a budding chef.

Story by: Trendsideas