Smith & Smith Kitchens Project 34

This kitchen designed by Lynette Yannakakis and crafted by Smith & Smith Kitchens showcases a transition from modern to classic elements, elegantly combined through colour and pared-back features. The contemporary-country styled cabinetry works splendidly in the cottage-esque home.

Customised deep-blue shaker-style cabinetry and vertical lining board panels are two timeless elements that work together in harmony with the more modern components, including the square-edged benchtop and pared-back canopy. The brushed brass Castella ‘Gallant’ cabinet and drawer handles are a refreshing addition that don’t stray too far from the traditional style as to be jarring – they still make sense within the overall design.

The pristine benchtops are made of a natural, honed marble in ‘Alba Blue’, which is not only stylish but also practical as it reduces sun glare. Matching marble splashbacks are incorporated throughout to make cleaning an effortless task. The striking black ILVE cooktop and oven contrasts against the benchtops, ‘Stirling White Terrazzo Look’ tiles from TileCloud and the Dulux ‘Casper White Quarter’ walls, completing the kitchen’s refined colour palette.

The U-shaped layout takes clever advantage of the corner north-facing windows and raked ceiling, offering multiple workspaces plus a bar-like bench where the family can gather and enjoy meals. Since the homeowners enjoy cooking together, Smith & Smith Kitchens ensured ample space was allowed between benchtops and the entranceway into the kitchen.

The adjoining study was reconfigured into a butler’s pantry; the existing wall and window were removed, and replaced with a cavity sliding door to access the new highly functional pantry, replete with a matching benchtop and splashback. A balance of open shelves and cupboards has been incorporated, providing a plethora of storage options.

A beautiful Turner Hastings farmhouse sink ties the country-home feel together, placed close to the cooktop per the client’s request for a smaller everyday workspace. The ABI Interiors tap complements the brassy colours in the cabinetry handles. A second sink was added to the butler’s pantry to use alongside appliances and minimise the mess in the main area.