This kitchen's black and white theme complements its classic and semi-industrial style

A large scullery, moveable island, subway tile splashback and a close connection to the living spaces are all design features of this classic-meets-modern kitchen

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For this kitchen project in a new home, the available footprint had already been allocated and the appliances purchased by the owners when designer Tracy Murphy was engaged.

"The kitchen is in a central location just a few steps from the outdoor area, the dining area and lounge," says Murphy. "So we designed the kitchen with a large, walk-in scullery tucked in behind, avoiding any cooking clutter being on show to the public spaces. The large scullery almost as big as the kitchen can be screened from sight with the slide of a pocket door."

The owners wanted traditional subway tiles for the kitchen's feature wall splashback and scullery splashback, and also requested two butlers sinks. The classic tiles and sinks work well with the retro Smeg fridge and dishwasher, along with the Smeg Victoria range and rangehood all on show in the kitchen proper.

"However, the owners didn't want a classic look for the kitchen over all. For example, they wanted to avoid traditional panelled doors, instead favouring the clean look of flat doors."

In response to these requests, Murphy designed a kitchen that tempered its traditional elements with a subtle industrial accent. For example, the recessed aluminium handles have a cool, modern tone, matching the flat doors.

Marble-look engineered stone countertops add to the classic side of things, with a waterfall end showing off the richness of the veined stone patterning to the living spaces.

"As the kitchen has a modest footprint and is close to several public areas, I designed the island with fixable castors. This means it can be fixed in place or, with locks released, it can be rolled closer to the dining area or outdoor room. The island's external stainless steel frame works well with the strip recessed cabinetry handles."

In terms of cooking function, the kitchen's classic oven and fridge are matched by modern wall ovens and an industrial-size Scope fridge in the scullery. Plus, the scullery has a double butler's sink to match the one in the kitchen.

"The scullery also has open shelves to make it easy to access things quickly."

Despite fusing classic elements with a light industrial feel, the kitchen achieves harmony.

"The consistent use of black and white tones draws the various aspects of the design together," says the designer. "Even the salt and pepper concrete floor contributes to this theme."