Hello

Istill have fond memories of the kitchen in my first home. At first it made me smile – the leadlight timber casement windows, built-in cabinetry, vege bin and timber panelling typical of art deco bungalows certainly looked charming. There is something about original features that connects with me, and I don’t like the thought of erasing the past. I can live with this, I decided. But after months of making dinner on that tiny benchtop, drawers jamming and sticking, no storage and terrible condensation, I knew the kitchen’s time was up. Original is great, but only if it works. So we renovated the kitchen and I loved the result, which was modern yet sympathetic to the home’s era.

That experience got me hooked on kitchen design and I’ve enjoyed watching it become more creative and accessible than ever. That’s evident in this issue, which features over 20 kitchens including Kelly Coe’s gleaming design on the cover. From pimped flatpacks for people on a budget to high-end zones for those seeking their dream design, we’ve sourced a variety of looks to love. Kitchen week is coming up on The Block NZ and I can’t wait to see the teams’ chosen designs come to life. To get you in the mood, we showcase the stunning kitchens from The Block Australia on page 150.

There are plenty of ideas in this issue so if you’re stuck on which ones might translate to your home, heed the advice of homeowners Kimberley Crisp and Liane Sanderson (page 60): “We both believe in expressing your authentic self partnered with your life experiences… this surpasses fleeting trends and instead embeds your style, which never goes out of fashion.” Well said, ladies!

Leden Mrs Cockatoo print, from $49, from The Market NZ.

The Master’s Chrysanthemum by Helen Bankers limitededition print (one of five), $1250 unframed, from helenbankers.com. Hortensia 1 by Martin Moore, $65, from Pop Motif. Calm Ocean print, $89, from Pop Motif.