Well connected

Inserting a modern working kitchen into an 1880s villa is not just a matter of integrating appliances behind rustic panel doors. It can be more effective to introduce a practical, modern kitchen that has points of empathy with its surroundings.

This entertainer's kitchen, by Lloyd Richardson, connects well to its adjoining spaces in several ways. Adjacent to an extension to the residence, it uses its position as a linking space to good effect.

The kitchen was built from scratch, and given its location, its interaction with the surrounding areas was carefully thought out, says Richardson.

"Set next to the dining area, the island provides both connection and a degree of separation from guests when the chef is in full cooking mode," he says. "Another example is the positioning of the television. This can swivel to be viewed from the kitchen. Alternatively, someone sitting in the sofa opposite can keep one eye on the screen and the other on the dinner preparation."

The kitchen is also a through space and can be viewed on approach down the hallway. To this end, choice of wall materials was an important consideration. Existing tongue-and-groove wallcoverings were introduced afresh in the dining space and wrapped round the wall to the pantry entrance.

"Classic villa renovations often see an exterior verandah glassed in, effectively turning an exterior surface into an interior one and this is what we played on here," says Richardson. "Countertop-to-ceiling tilework was another strategic material choice chosen in place of the popular, minimalist glass splashback often found in modern kitchens."

The grid lines of the tiled surface provide a balance with the textured look of the tongue-and-groove wall finishes. Tilework is also a more classic-look material, in keeping with the home's origins.

"Colour was another connector between the kitchen and the rest of the home," says Richardson.

"Red ran through much of the house already, so the deep red cabinetry tones were in keeping with this. The existing wood floor was retained, blemishes and all, and the rich lacquer hues also complement these natural tones."

With the kitchen on view from several areas, every viewing aspect was considered. A timber benchtop just inside the pantry complements the stone benchtops in the kitchen proper. While this extends the use of rich, natural counter materials, the timber countertop gives way to a utilitarian laminate further into the pantry, out of sight from the adjoining spaces.

The fact that there is no door on the pantry is a clue to the kitchen's other emphasis functionality. One owner is an avid baker, and a door here would have simply been in the way. A heavy-duty oven, Blumotion interiors on the extensive cabinetry, and even the dedicated plastic storage bins in the pantry are all designed for maximum function and utility.

"In a sense, this is almost like two kitchens," says Richardson. "The main kitchen has integrated refrigerator and dishwasher and fold-back cabinetry elements that have an aesthetic wow factor. In the pantry, however, it is all function, a place to let the flour fly without being seen by family or guests."

Story by: Trendsideas