Trends New Zealand Volume 33 No 6 | Page 19

Great design ideas don’t exist in a vacuum – any effective concept will likely be in part a response to the surrounding environment. On this kitchen project by designer Damian Hannah, the homeowners were renovating their home and wanted something very dramatic in their now open-plan space. “It needed a design that would maximise their space and provide a welcoming, open kitchen that worked well with their extensive art collection,” says Hannah. “They love to entertain and wanted a kitchen that flowed to the adjacent outside barbecue area, complete with a large outdoor fire.” He worked with the idea of a large island that allowed a flow through from the living and dining area across to the sunroom – at the same time creating a gathering place near the stacker doors opening to the barbecue area. “Starting with the island’s long design, I then created a large galley-style kitchen that would provide the functionality required for the growing family of five,” says Hannah. “In addition, a tall bank of cabinetry in the sunroom gave extra storage and pantry space. “This allowed me to incorporate the large Previous pages and above: Upon reflection – glossy jet black glass cabinetry provides a picture-perfect reflection of the scenery beyond the stacker doors in this contemporary Alno kitchen design by German Kitchens. The gleaming kitchen is something of an artwork in itself, while the jet black cabinetry, splashback and countertop surfaces don’t compete with the owners’ colourful art collection. search | save | share at