Trends New Zealand Trends Volume 31 No 6 New Zealand | Page 127

Surface attraction
Part of a Craftsman-style makeover, this kitchen combines a wealth
of natural materials with more contemporary accents
It’s a puzzle interior designers often have to
solve – how to continue a traditional theme into
the kitchen while achieving the functionality
and presence required by a busy modern chef.
The answer is likely to lie in the details.
This kitchen by designer Nadia Subaran is
part of a house remodel by architect Jim Rill. The
project has transformed an unexceptional brick
house into a roomy Craftsman-style cottage.
There is also a new family room and kitchen in
an extension at the rear, says Subaran.
“In keeping with the American Arts and
Crafts feel, the walls and ceilings now have

mouldings and panels – a level of detailing that
reflects the style’s handcrafted aesthetic,” says
Subaran. “But because one owner is passionate
about cooking the kitchen needed to have all the
contemporary bells and whistles.”
To connect with adjacent rooms, the kitchen
is lightly detailed, with an abundance of natural
surfaces, continuing the layered, hand-worked
appeal. There are three benchtop materials,
two splashback treatments, and more than one
cabinet finish, for example.
“The perimeter benchtop is in Taj Mahal
quartzite, a hard-wearing surface with the look

Facing page: This open-plan
family room and kitchen are part
of a whole-house remodel in the
Craftsman style, by architect Jim Rill.
The kitchen design is by designer
Nadia Subaran. The family room
features natural surfaces and has a
soaring, barn-like ceiling.
Above: Natural materials and warm
tones in the kitchen are in keeping
with the style. These elements are
balanced with more contemporary
stainless steel accents.

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