Trends New Zealand Volume 33 No 6 | Page 24

Above: Free of sinks or other inserts, the island benchtop provides a clear surface for prepping or serving. However, the main prep area is over by the window so parents can keep an eye on younger family members while preparing dinner or cleaning up. The new lighter-toned floor replaces a dark wood floor in the existing kitchen, while the metal pendants add to the artisanal flavour seen in the handmade, undulating tilework. search | save | share at “The owners had wanted an artisanal feel for the kitchen, too, and the addition of hand-made, undulating grey tiles for the splashback helped achieved this,” says Gray. “A slender pantry to one side pro- vides additional handy storage.” At the other end of the kitchen is the prep sink, positioned so the chef can clean up and take in the garden at the same time. For the traditional accent, the designer chose classic cabinetry frames and a panel door style with internal bevel, all in white. Bright chrome cup pulls and knobs bring pops of interest and these visually link with the metal pendants over the island. The island’s wood cabinetry with its solid corner posts adds to the traditional accent. Free from a sink or other inserts, the island benchtop has a more modern appeal, while a drinks fridge is set underneath. Sleek glass and steel appliances offer a contrasting contemporary touch. “The kitchen’s predominantly neutral tones bring serenity while the greenery of the indoor plants links with the natural world outside,” says Gray.