Trends New Zealand Volume 33 No 2 | Page 75

Great design sometimes requires stepping back from a project and seeing a broad stroke that will change the feel and flow of a space. Prior to its reinvention by interior designer Lauren Levant, this home’s original kitchen had been a cramped, builder-grade workspace with a splintered, inefficient layout. “The owner had a very clear picture of what she was looking for in its place,” says Levant. “This was a space that would be light-filled and breezy – sort of California-clean looking – with some exciting transitional details.” At the same time, the owner wanted to be sure that, beyond upping the form and func- tion of the space, this upgrade would also add energy and interest. A master stroke in the design was Levant relocating the garage entry door in pursuit of achieving a much more effective layout. “This relatively small construction change allowed for the addition of a continuous wall of cooking equipment and storage,” Levant says. The large range is flanked by an integrated fridge on one side and a pantry on the other. The pantry’s shallow depth allows space behind it to accommodate the existing and immovable This page: With cabinetry on two walls, a generous cooking zone, large central island and an adjacent dining table in the same finish as the cabinetry, this kitchen achieves an effective balance between stand-out good looks and day-to-day function. The hard-working, contemporary kitchen design is by designer Lauren Levant of Lauren Levant Interior. search | save | share at