Description:

The Rakau Rd Radiant Harbour Haven kitchen renovation aimed to transform a small space into a functional and aesthetically pleasing culinary haven on a modest budget. The design incorporates colours and textures that resonated with the clients who is a family with 3 children 5-10 years of age. Dark green cabinetry, plywood timber joinery, handmade concrete organically finished benchtops and brass accents to create a warm, organic ambiance that echoes the surrounding exterior views of a harbour, forestry, and green vegetation in the hillside garden.
A custom designed dining space alcove was fitted into the kitchen area to encompass social connection between the family and hangers on whilst doing homework and meal preparation.
PureMatte HPL laminate with anti-microbial properties in a smooth matte dark green colour combined with light grey handmade sealed concrete benchtops offer durability and make for a sophisticated yet organic look. Plywood timber joinery and x-Board flooring warmed up the colour scheme when used in conjunction with brass accents via the handles, sink, tapware and splashback. Practical materials for longevity and ease of cleaning.
Handmade sage green mosaic tiles were used throughout the room along with textured wool seating upholstery to bring nature indoors as the colour echoed the green of the harbour sea visible from the living room.
Plywood slatted ceiling echoes the slats used on cabinetry to help frame the dining alcove and contribute towards making it feel intimate.
The original kitchen was in a slightly smaller footprint and did not make the best use of the space from a functional perspective as the kitchen benches were narrow, cupboards instead of drawers were used and bulky deep overhead cabinets closed the existing space in. There was no joinery or benches used in the pantry alcove so this space was maximised to accommodate the food storage, benchtop appliances and needs of a growing family.
As there was a lack of wall space the ovens were kept under the bench but adjacent to the hob so easy access could be achieved. The hob bench wrapped around into the landing area into the kitchen so that it invited visitors into the kitchen space and served a need as display area. Access to the house was tricky with stairs and no lift/cable car so a lot of joinery items were assembled onsite.
A unique kitchen that differs from the usual palette of colours and textures currently in fashion whilst retaining functionality within the NKBA design guidelines has been achieved – this family adore their new space and intend to enjoy it for another 10-15 years.