Previous pages : Material advantage – kauri plywood and black melamine cabinets are matched with stainless steel countertops and an emerald green tile splashback in this kitchen . Negative handles and slender countertops bring an upmarket , entertainer ’ s air to the kitchen space . In addition , a rangehood is concealed in the upper perimeter cabinetry .
Creating a modern kitchen that stands up to the rigours of family life while at the same time offering a sleek presence for entertaining is a common balancing act required of a designer . For this project , by Sam Elliot of architecture design and build firm Box , choice of materials was key to achieving this – all on a modest budget .
“ Sticking to the original budget was a must on this design so a canny use of materials for maximum impact was a must ,” says Elliot . “ We approached this by combining affordable MDF panelling , with stainless steel benchtops and a limited use of Fijian kauri cabinet fronts .
“ To minimise costs , we avoided a waterfall end on the island benchtop while the beautiful , warm , textural kauri is only used on the most prominent elements – on the front of the island and upper perimeter cabinetry ,” she says .
Black melamine cabinetry in a matte finish provides a pleasing contrast to the rich kauri . Negative detail pulls on the cabinet drawers and door handles adds to a minimalist look and also creates the effect of floating benchtops .
“ The slim nature of the benchtops also adds a sleek , refined elegance to the kitchen ,” says the designer . “ To continue the streamlined feel , search | save | share at