Trends New Zealand Trends Volume 31 No 10 New Zealand | Page 76

NKBA DESIGN AWARDS 2015 Best Use of Colour winner Simone van der Plas Encompass Ideas Wellington Chapter Designer Designer statement Simone van der Plas ckdnz Encompass Ideas Wellington 021 599 955 [email protected] eideas.co.nz How does one reflect the clients’ love of botanical imagery and combine it into their daily life? Easily – by integrating it into their new kitchen cabinetry! Cabinetry Lacquer; oak veneer stained to match Bestwood washed oak laminate with clear lacquer; vinyl with graphic print with Hafele aluminium T edge clashings Cabinetry carcasses White Melamine Benchtops Silestone Blanco Zeus Extreme Appliances Oven, steam oven, warming drawer by Miele; induction hob by Gaggenau; ventilation by Wolf; dishwasher by Asko; refrigeration by Liebherr Sinks Mercer Toekicks Brushed stainless steel laminate Handles Flush pull Hardware Hettich Photography Paul McCredie The clients own a small, funky 1960s house that sits atop a hill surrounded by hills and bush. The house had a 1990s kitchen with a small island and limited functionality, and the layout didn’t suit their lifestyle of catering and entertaining. The kitchen had great views and lots of sun, so they wanted to open the area up to the outside and the rest of the house. The design also needed to improve the storage and function, while creating a sense of fun, allowing for easy living and lots of socialising. We gave the new kitchen a modern, clean look with a design that incorporates a digital print of magnolia branches, complete with hidden bugs and birds, loved by the clients. The images, by a UK designer, were printed on a special vinyl with a protective laminate – edges on the panels were clashed with silver aluminium T edges for added protection. Soft colours, a light oak veneer blonded to complement the graphics, hidden storage, integrated refrigerators, a hidden downdraft and lots of storage bring the kitchen into the modern world. The circulation was improved by creating a new passageway which allowed for a large island. This has pantry storage, pullouts, two ovens, a warmer drawer, an integrated refrigerator and storage. The clients are delighted and will enjoy the kitchen for years to come. Judges’ comments This entry shows a very distinctive approach to colour, with a design that meets the clients’ specific request for a digital print of magnolia branches. It’s a brave and bold approach that has produced a dramatic effect and a very personalised kitchen. search | save | share at trendsideas.com