The goal of the kitchen renovation in this three-bed Melbourne apartment was to give it a new look that reflected the owners’ style as well as improve its functionality and flow with the rest of the space.
“The clients wanted a white shaker style kitchen that was still contemporary and minimal,” says interior designer Nina Di Marco. “They had lots of ideas and inspiration images, but needed someone to help them put these together in a cohesive way.”
The old kitchen was dated and disjointed from the rest of the home, particularly the dining area. “The clients wanted to achieve an open plan and be able to include an island bench, which meant the wall between the kitchen and dining area had to go!”
Storage really needed to be maximised in the new design. To do this, the cabinetry was taken right to the ceiling and additional cabinetry and an extra drawer were added under the island overhang. The corner, which often proves tricky, was fully utilised by putting the pantry there with internal L-shaped shelves. It was also important for the client that they could comfortably sit at the island bench, so a 400mm depth was allowed for.
“The client wanted a clutter-free look, which we achieved by adding in an appliance cupboard with pocket doors and a fully integrated fridge, rangehood and dishwasher,” explained Nina, of YDM Design Studio. “To create the more minimal, contemporary look they were after, we opted for a slim shaker profile, rather than a more traditional shaker. However, we still wanted the kitchen to feel warm and inviting, which is why we went with brushed brass handles and tapware, and used a timber-look melamine inside the appliance cupboard.”
The stone benchtop and splashback (Ottoman Grey Zenith Surface by Stone Ambassador) are real heroes. The island has waterfall ends but these end two-thirds of the way up to give a more contemporary twist.
“The transformation between the old and new is huge,” says Nina. “The removal of the wall, new layout and new colour palette have made a massive difference to both how the space functions and how it feels.
“The new spaces feel bright, light and inviting. The light colour palette really works, whilst the stone adds interest and texture, and the brushed brass touches really warm up the space. The design of the island is my favourite element, which is of course the focal point of the whole kitchen.”
Photography: Elise Scott | Styling: Kate Monkhouse of Studio Monkhouse | Builder: Bracon Construction
For more on Nina and YDM Design Studio
