What makes for an ideal hub-of-the-home kitchen? Here's a well-connected example

Open to adjacent spaces in terms of both architecture and finishes, this elegant kitchen lets its architect owner take part in family proceedings and dinner preparations at the same time

This black and wood kitchen connects with the

The finely finished cabinetry is by RH Cabinetmakers.

American walnut veneer meets hard-wearing Meltica surfaces (and

The kitchen benches are a leathered black granite,

The tall storage is walnut timber veneer while

Even the light fittings contribute to the pleasing

Designed by Kate Rogan and Eva Nash, Rogan Nash Architects

From the architects:

This is the home of an architect, her husband and two children.

The L-shaped plan was a reaction to the 100-year old pohutukawa tree, a significant feature of the site.

The exterior palette carries through to the interior in this design, with a black entry and black hardware – including handles, hinges and the kitchen tap and sink – so there is a blending of inside to outside. An outdoor room tucks between the kitchen and lounge and light also slices into the home through skylights in the lounge.

Much like a family, the design focuses on interconnection. The kitchen acts as the lynchpin of the design – not only as a metaphoric heart, but as the centre of the plan: a hub of the home for a family who have a passion for cooking and entertaining.

The rooms directly converse with each other: from the kitchen you can see the deck and snug where the children play or or talk to friends at the sofa in the lounge – all while preparing food together to put on the dining table.

The tall storage is walnut timber veneer while the low cabinets and island bench are black Melamine. The upper cabinets are clad in tinted mirror, which brings in light and visual interest.

The island bench is ample, and easily sits four or five people at the 'About a Stool' stools. The benches are a leathered black granite, featuring a stunning grain.