SM A RT CON T R A ST

Jo Lawless & Kevin Ng Lawless & Meyerson, Surry Hills, NSW; (02) 9101 1133 or lawlessandmeyerson.com. MHN Design Union, Surry Hills, NSW; mhndu.com.

With architecture by MHN Design Union and interiors by Lawless & Meyerson, this kitchen has a strong connection to the lush foliage in the garden terrace beyond. “The island is both a prep and dining space, so it needed to be large enough for the family to spread out,” says Jo Lawless, director of Lawless & Meyerson. Dekton tops were chosen for durability, there is storage on both sides, plus steel-framed shelves above for condiments, cookbooks and the odd plant. The black cabinetry commands attention but white walls and pale flooring ensure it never feels heavy. This sense of ‘lightness’ is conferred by standing the island on its own feet. “We spend a huge amount of time in our kitchen, gathered around the island,” says the owner.