Kallan McLeod
A young couple with a toddler and baby on the way bought this turn-of-the-century home and asked for an eclectic kitchen that wasn’t too “matchy-matchy.”
Who wouldn’t want to prepare for Christmas dinner in this gorgeous new kitchen in a mid-century home?
Designer Kira Gray of Fyfe Kitchens says the home’s new owners — a busy working couple with a toddler and baby on the way — recently purchased the mid-century Auckland home.
“There was a lot of detail and beautiful charm throughout the house, but the kitchen was tired and the kitchen, dining and living room were three separate rooms. We had to create one long space for open living.”
Kallan McLeod
Splashback tiles extend to the ceiling, while the detailed scotia “steps” around the cabinets. Custom wine storage is also a strong visual feature of the kitchen.
Gray says the kitchen had to retain the character of the house: “A sense of quirky elegance was called for, with an eclectic mix of materials – they didn’t want it to look ‘matchy-matchy’. They also wanted seating, a place to display ornaments, and wine storage.
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The designer says it was important to maintain a sunny, inviting aesthetic and the workspaces needed to be practical, with a functional flow.
Kallan McLeod
Designer Kira Gray combined perimeter cabinets in Resene Half Black White with an island in Resene Robin Egg Blue.
Walls between the rooms have been removed and the L-shaped kitchen has been placed at the rear of the room, next to a large bay window. Gray combined cabinets with fresh white panels in Resene Half Black White with a large island in Resene Robin Egg Blue. The pantry display cabinet at the end of the kitchen, designed to resemble a piece of furniture, features custom stained American oak.
“An eclectic mix of stainless steel knobs and finger grips contrasts with brass knobs in the pantry,” says the designer. “Industrial hangers add some fun.”
In keeping with the traditional feel, the hood’s bespoke hood features a sheet ledge with collar detailing. Gray also introduced slatted ceilings to the room, and an elaborate scotia forming the crown molding to the kitchen “stepping in and out of cabinetry for interest in keeping with mid-century design.”
Look at MacLeod
Three rooms have become one beautiful space.
Kallan McLeod
Kira Gray of Fyfe Kitchens, Auckland designed paneled cabinetry with drawer knobs and handles by Archant Knightsbridge.
Other key features that enhance its character include classic backsplash tiles, an In Residence butler’s sink and fluted posts and skirting details.
The countertops are Caesarstone in London Grey. Appliances include an LG French Door fridge, Ascot 90 freestanding cooker, Ariston powerpack range hood and Bosch dishwasher.
THE NIGHT
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