Semi-industrial materials define this kitchen

When the kitchen's the first thing that guests see when they step through your front door, it really does need to be a show stopper. Such was the case with this bold kitchen by Dominique Van Roosmalen, a designer at Mackay Kitchens.

"The owners were clear in what they wanted a loft style, semi-industrial feel that would complement the broad use of brick, concrete, and wood throughout the new home," she says.

"A concrete island bench was to be the hub of the design, and other finishes needed to build on this to ensure the kitchen became a cohesive focal point for family and guests.

The island's cabinetry is finished in a black Melteca, which offers a hardwearing surface and contributes to the kitchen's semi-commercial feel. This dark tone is repeated in lacquer on the wall cabinetry that surrounds the fridge.

The designer says it was an obvious choice to specify all the perimeter benchtops in stainless steel, a traditional semi-industrial surface that works well with the Muros Rustic Brick wall panels selected by the owners. The low-upkeep metal benches are matched with stainless steel appliances, including a custom stainless steel rangehood. The flue is designed in a distinctive L shape, transforming a practical element into a sculptural one.

While all these features add up to a bold, semi industrial-look, the kitchen also has all the domestic facilities and storage requirements.

"The island alone contains an underbench microwave and drinks refrigerator, as well as a 900mm wide Fisher and Paykel dish drawer," says Van Roosmalen.

To optimise storage and not crowd-out the red brick walls, the designer specified a large double Hafele Tandem pantry. This provides for maximum food storage in the 1200mm wide area, ensuring the owners and their three children are never lacking in space for food and drink items.

And, as is important in a bustling family kitchen, all the smaller appliances are close to hand. To achieve this, Van Roosmalen added an on-bench appliance cupboard with a top-hung, bi-fold door. This conveniently hides the toaster and jug, while an abundance of drawers allow items like toastie makers and popcorn poppers to be hidden away, but within easy reach.

Everything has its place here an oil drawer to the side of the cooker allows for speedy access to oils and sauces while working at the cooktop.

Story by: Charles Moxham