Refined accent

Designed by Dean Welsh, ThinkDzine Interiors

From the designer:

Design brief

This apartment project is nestled in a new development which is centered in the horse racing district history in Randwick, Sydney.

The apartment block complex is a leafy, private pocket positioned between the historical Newmarket House and the Big Stable.

This brand-new apartment had a newly fitted galley kitchen which did not suit the needs and finishing of the owner.

The apartment owner was looking for a more customised design solution with natural finishes.

Facing straight on to the living room, the new kitchen was to be a stronger feature of the overall living space.

The kitchen was the apartment’s hub, and needed to be able to provide casual seating, but not take up valuable space.

There was also a need to have joinery that could hide away most of the appliances.

Warmth, texture and a furniture styling were important considerations for the material and finishes. 

Design response

The apartment’s living space is flooded with natural light, so it could withstand a beguiling dark and moody tone.

Setting the lacquered doors, a feature of the island, against a dark natural dark heat treat wood oak veneer was design delivery.

The integration of the selected Sub-Zero fridge meant that a handle style was going to be more suitable, so in tune with the contrast of the wood and the lacquered doors then two handle styles were chosen.

This meant the cup handle on the island became a subtle furniture design detail and made the island a standalone element.

The round 45-degree wood platform table was introduced to provide casual seating without taking up valuable living space.

Using a retractable door system allowed for hiding the small appliances when not in use.

The owner loves different types of cooking so the use of Pitt gas cooking with Vzug induction cooking meant they had the best of both.

The use of a natural quartzite for the benchtop and splashback created a sophistication and warmth that pulled the beautiful finishes together.

Recessed sensored LED provide lighting over the rear benchtop while the dome pendants shine over the island while the kitchen reads as a piece of sensuous bespoke furniture.

Designed by: Dean Welsh, ThinkDzine Interiors

Story by: Trendsideas

Photography by: Huw Lambert