KITCHEN my pick

Sydneysiders Hayden and Sara have thrown it all at the kitchen… including the sink. They changed the plans and held their breath as it came together – and what a stunning result!

Instead of the kitchen looking out to the less-than-perfect living space, the aspect now focuses on the little bit of natural light a orded to the third loor. The light streams in from a large window and the gorgeous bench seat below is the ideal solution – it brings a relaxed and family oriented feel and is just the spot for morning co ee.

This kitchen has plenty of character and a relaxed approach to easy luxury. A giant bank of appliances supplies the muscle needed when guests turn up, but the space still has an understated feel.

So, what are the elements that work? Three blown-glass pendant lights illuminate an island benchtop in Caesarstone Statuario Nuvo, which also runs as a splashback behind a sleek, smart Bosch induction cooktop. The highlighted rangehood is a design element in itself and is not the usual stainless-steel canopy we’re all familiar with.

Mirrored kickboards elevate the entire kitchen and loat it above the beautiful timber loors, although I’m a little worried about what they’ll look like after the mop’s been around the room a few times. Four geometric stools at the island bench almost do away with the need for a separate dining table.

Hayden and Sara’s design de initely hits the target as an entertainer’s kitchen, but manages to maintain a homely feel. It’s not perfect – a few more power points wouldn’t go astray and I’d love to see a cavity slider into the butler’s pantry – but the white marble/matt black/soft brass combo is a winner every day of the week for me.