Trends New Zealand Volume 35 No 2 | Page 101

with contemporary sleek benchtops and mirror splashbacks, which both reflect light and give a sense of space. Other material elements include, warm timber highlights and a polished concrete floor – giving the space a light-industrial feel.” The island bench is naturally a focal point for entertaining, and so is a hero of the design. “I suggested the use of a modern engineered stone for the island benchtop for a couple of rea- sons. Dekton was capable of creating the thinner edge we wanted and offers the convenience of being a completely heat proof surface,” Huizenga says. “To create the end elements supporting the benchtop, I combined new timber frames with central panels made from leftover timber flooring. The natural wood tones also tie in with the use of wood in other areas of the interior. The kitchen is decidedly uncluttered, with a wealth of dedicated storage and functionality tucked away in the tall cabinetry that lines the adjacent hallway and in a full walk-in pantry directly behind and accessed via the hallway. “The floor-to-ceiling hall cabinetry utilises Concepta hideaway doors. When opened, these bi-fold doors slot back out of the way into the cabinet body. One set opens to reveal the breakfast Above left and top: Matt black cabinetry sets the scene for this all- mod-cons kitchen by designer Rod Huizenga. The ends of the island are partly in left-over wood flooring and connect with the further use of wood in the adjacent lounge. Above: Set just below the slender Dekton island benchtop, a chunky butler’s sink adds a rustic touch to the kitchen’s light-industrial feel. search | save | share at