Tales of the unexpected

Forget minimalism the classics are back in a big way. And it's not just a return to a more traditional decorative style that is changing the look of home interiors. As this project illustrates, there is even a place for Gothic Revival.

Designer Debra DeLorenzo says the owners love Gothic architecture, and have collected many accessories that fit with this theme.

"The concept was moderated a little for the new kitchen, however," she says. "Resale value is always a consideration at the end of the day, so the kitchen has a more semi-classical look."

DeLorenzo says the dark-stained beams of the 1970s bungalow and a black freestanding range provided the starting points for the kitchen design. The range is the only appliance on show to avoid the contemporary look of stainless steel, all the other appliances have been integrated or hidden within a large walk-in pantry.

"The range was always going to be the centrepiece," she says. "But it really came into its own when we decided to move the kitchen to the area that was originally the dining room. This had several advantages we were able to place the range against an exterior wall and create a window splashback, and we were able to use a small adjacent room as a pantry. It also meant we could position the sink to allow a view over the living area."

DeLorenzo framed the window with a custom-designed mantel and hood, complete with decorative corbels and mouldings. The depth of the mantel creates a sense of solidity and permanence. It also ensures the ventilation unit, which comprises two power packs, is concealed.

"The cabinetry has a similar paint finish and was designed to appear as though it could have been added to over time," the designer says. "We have used both panel and tongue-and-groove doors to mix it up a bit and to provide a more unfitted look."

But despite appearances, the cabinets are equipped with the latest Blum hardware and drawer systems. Special features include double rubbish bins, a lazy Susan and drawers with spice, knife and cutlery inserts. Additional storage is provided in the walk-in pantry to the left of the range. DeLorenzo says the extra pantry space meant the kitchen's functionality would not compromise the design elements.

To complete the look, the designer specified a butler's sink, classical tapware and patterned tiles for the sink splashback, which have been laid on the diagonal.

Story by: Colleen Hawkes

Photography by: Paul McCredie