GET THE LOOK
1. Quartz surface in Empira White, from $700/sqm, Caesarstone.
2. ‘Fleur De Lys’ pressed metal panels in Primed Matt White (180cm x 91cm), $169, Schots Home Emporium. 3. Smeg 50s retro style electric kettle in White, $229, Harvey Norman. 4. ‘Majestic M096DNE3’ 900mm electric oven freestanding cooker with gas cooktop in Midnight Blue/Gold, $11,499, Ilve. 5. Macau ginger jar, $59.95, PHL. 6. Extra large mango wood board, $149, April & Oak.
While renovating this traditional-style kitchen in a heritage home dating back to the 1850s, interior designer Lauren Mahoney, founder of Studio Trio, trod the fine line between the preserving the heritage and providing the owner with a refreshed, functional kitchen. The small, dark kitchen hadn’t been touched since the 1920s and special permission was needed to knock down an internal wall to create a bigger, lighter space. “The owner loved the old V-groove in the kitchen, so I used this as my styling point in the design,” says Lauren. “I think it works with the original ceiling and old charm, yet makes it new.” A medley of textures and antique furniture enriches the design and blue and brass accents add a level of sophistication to the country vibe. “I like to match my metals,” admits Lauren. A pretty Roman blind and pendant in Jane Churchill prints complement the burnished brass Hepburn Hardware handles, traditional Brodware tapware, and a selection of Hudson Valley lights from LightCo. Ilve’s aptly named Majestic freestanding cooker takes centre stage and adds a pop of colour.