Trends New Zealand Trends Volume 32 No 4 New Zealand | Page 98

In terms of design presence, less can be
decidedly more, as this kitchen by ownerdesigner Annika Rowson demonstrates.
“The brief to ourselves was to design
a functional kitchen that would blend into
the open-plan living space,” says Rowson.
“It had to have a furniture-like appeal, yet
also service the needs of a busy family.”
Mid-century modern was the influence
for the kitchen’s aesthetic, in keeping with
the home’s architecture – so simple, clean
lines and natural accents were important.
In response, Rowson created a galley

kitchen, with a matt black back wall that
all but disappears from sight. This lets
the generous 4m-wide feature island with
white herringbone tile front stand out.
“The island’s crisp Corian countertop
in Cirrus White sits on a Keruing frame
with slab ends. This rich-toned wood
adds a natural touch and complements
the floor-to-ceiling sheer white curtains,”
says the designer. “The herringbone tiles
balance the cool polished concrete floors,
and add an artisanal touch – these were all
individually laid by hand.

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“My favourite feature, however, is the
custom reflective suspended brass hood.”
Then there’s the kitchen’s sheer wealth
of functionality. The rear wall conceals an
integrated fridge-freezer, a pantry with a
pocket door and five storage drawers, and
a breakfast-entertainment bar backed with
the same herringbone tile as the island.
The island has its own share of discreet
functionality, too, with a flush induction
hob, dishdrawers, storage, recycling and a
sink. The sink’s Corian sides blend with the
countertop when viewed on an angle.