Space to grow

Older character houses may be full of charm, but they are not known for their open, light-filled interiors. However, as this project illustrates, they can be ideal candidates for a makeover.

Wellington designer Maria Telfar of Interior Design Concepts says the owners wanted a new kitchen with more storage and bench space. They also wanted a large island that could double as a casual dining area. The layout needed to ensure family and friends could socialise while meals were being prepared.

"It was important that the renovation was sensitive to the character of the house so that it would not look like an add-on or an afterthought," Telfar says.

The designer removed a wall between the kitchen and family room, introduced skylights, raised a sloping roof and enlarged windows to provide a light, spacious interior.

Key design features include a large, triangular-shaped island with its own cooking centre and retractable downdraft extractor. A new wall of cabinetry incorporates the refrigerator, ovens and a baking centre, with a microwave oven behind closed doors. The Tobacco Arborform cabinets are paired with Silestone Amazon Leather benchtops.

For details, contact Interior Design Concepts, PO Box 14-820, Kilbirnie, Wellington 6241, phone (04) 972 9006. Website: www.in2design.co.nz.

Story by: Trendsideas