BLOCK MAGIC
The unveiling of the kitchens on the latest series of Nine Network’s The Block revealed some key style directions. Here are our takeaways from the designs, overseen by Freedom Kitchens:
Space mission In Sarah and Jason’s kitchen, the key design feature is the contrasting island benchtop in Caesarstone’s Rugged Concrete (above left). The seamless integration of a raised shelf along the rear benchtop, in Caesarstone Statuario Maximus, provides additional put-down space and frees up the bench/cooktop area.
Timeless black and white A contrasting palette of light and dark creates a sophisticated look and feel in Hannah and Clint’s kitchen (above, top right). Freedom’s ‘Charcoal Riven’ cabinetry and Caesarstone’s marble-look Calacatta Nuvo benchtops underpin the elegant, understated aesthetic, while a strip of overhead cupboards in Freedom’s ‘Pewter’ is an unexpected highlight.
High note Warm details such as this timber cutlery drawer (above, centre) in Josh and Elyse’s all-white kitchen provide balance in the design, which relies on Freedom’s ‘Sierra Cinder’ and ‘White’ cabinetry. The result is a classic-contemporary aesthetic.
Permission to vent Ronnie and Georgia savvily positioned a Neff induction cooktop on their island bench to maintain views to the outdoors and living/dining zones (above, bottom right). This also promotes easier interaction while cooking or entertaining.
Go with the flow Josh and Elyse’s island bench (right) is pivotal to good spatial flow and easy access to the butler’s pantry. The orientation maximises floor space and provides visual connection to the living/dining zones and outdoor space. Wrapped in Caesarstone Noble Grey, the island offers a large separate work surface with generous proportions.
Material matters Concrete, mirror, marble and timber each define a zone in Sticks and Wombat’s kitchen (below).
Full-length joinery in Freedom’s ‘Valetta’ textured concrete conceals a Bosch fridge and freezer. Mirrored kickboards create a ‘floating’ effect. freedomkitchens.com.au #