Trends New Zealand Volume 35 No 3 | Page 33

the front of the island is in the same veneer as the cabinetry, continuing the material contrast. Concealed lighting washes down the marble splashback, accentuating its jet honed surface Completing the kitchen’s two-tone look, the recessed strip cabinet pulls are also black, as are the melamine linings on some cabinet interiors. On show to surrounding spaces, the kitchen had to be easy to keep neat and tidy, and having efficient cabinetry and storage were key to this. “We designed full-height rear cabinetry to the left, dropping the height towards the right, to provide room for the discrete high clerestory windows that bathe the kitchen in natural light.” The functionality of the generous cabinetry is optimised by easy-access, advanced cabinetry hardware. For example, the cabinet door hinges over-extend to provide full and easy access to cabinet interiors. Similarly, the upper cabinet doors lift out and upwards, meaning hassle-free access to these harder-to-reach spaces. “Working within the constraints of a fairly limited budget, we kept the overall form simple to allow more to be spent on seamless detailing and finishing – resulting in a warm and user- friendly space all round,” says Lewis. Above: Recessed track spots above the benchtop provide a combination of both task or mood lighting and also highlight the rich black, honed marble countertop. Concealed strip lighting highlights the same stone’s use on the rear splashback, while high windows above the cabinetry let in morning sun. The timber floors provide an ideal backdrop to the finely finished wood and black workspace. Wood pendants complete the picture. search | save | share at