With a growing family in mind, this couple designed a functional, practical and kid-friendly kitchen that would connect the other rooms in their new build.
THE FARMHOUSE KITCHEN IS THE HEART OF THIS FAMILY HOME AND LINKS THE LIVING, DINING AND DECK AREAS.
REBECCA AND RYAN MCDONALD considered the needs of their young family when they designed the kitchen for their new home near the Queensland town of Goondiwindi. The central island bench comfortably seats their four children, while the servery links to the enclosed verandah, where they eat breakfast in summer. “Everything is connected and open,” explains Rebecca. “We can open the double cavity window slider along the servery to the deck and barbecue area.” The couple paired shaker-style cabinetry featuring a crisp two-pack polyurethane finish in Dulux Vivid White from Tech Designs with a striking splashback in Quantum Quartz Statuario Six+ from Stone Services. An appliance tower with coffee machine and microwave is located close to the servery’s double sink, while a butler’s pantry with open shelving and study nook provides extra storage and means the front workspace is free of clutter. “Everything has a place, concealed away with appliances plugged in and ready to use,” Rebecca adds. “I do all the school lunch preparation in the pantry close to the fridge.” Nearby, a walk-in coldroom with internal and external doors allows the family to unload groceries and supplies via the carport. The three-metre-long island bench also features storage on each side. “I wanted it be a statement piece, more like a piece of furniture.” Most importantly, the kitchen connects the dining and living areas to the deck, ensuring this busy mother of four is never far from the action. For more on the Mcdonald family’s home, turn to page 48.