Clean-lined black kitchen designed to complement the owners' artworks

Great design ideas don't exist in a vacuum any effective concept will likely be in part a response to the surrounding environment.

On this kitchen project by designer Damian Hannah, the homeowners were renovating their home and wanted something very dramatic in their now open-plan space.

"It needed a design that would maximise their space and provide a welcoming, open kitchen that worked well with their extensive art collection," says Hannah.

"They love to entertain and wanted a kitchen that flowed to the adjacent outside barbecue area, complete with a large outdoor fire."

He worked with the idea of a large island that allowed a flow through from the living and dining area across to the sunroom at the same time creating a gathering place near the stacker doors opening to the barbecue area.

"Starting with the island's long design, I then created a large galley-style kitchen that would provide the functionality required for the growing family of five," says Hannah. "In addition, a tall bank of cabinetry in the sunroom gave extra storage and pantry space.

"This allowed me to incorporate the large stainless steel fridge, double wall ovens and double dishwashers within the main kitchen and also allowed for more usable bench space."

The owners liked the idea of taking the units as high as they could go. But, due to the home's generous 3m ceiling heights, Hannah designed the tall units and wall units at different heights for an interesting design effect.

"Setting these at varying heights lessens the impact of having the cabinetry running nearly up to the ceiling. The space above the main kitchen's perimeter units allows for displaying art objects, while the space above the bank of storage cabinets in the sunroom is highlighted by a strip of recessed LEDs."

Working with the owners on the interior colours, the designer specified a stand-out high gloss, black glass kitchen with matching splashback. The highly reflective glass reflects the stunning views beyond the opposite windows and bounces natural light through the interior.

"The black glass is protected on its edges by aluminium strips," says Hannah. "These extend at the bottom or top of a cupboard or drawer as an understated handle, adding to the sleek, minimalist effect."

Story by: Blum New Zealand ,  New Zealand TIDA Kitchens ,  Damian Hannah

Photography by: Paul McCredie