Smith & Smith Kitchens Project 62

This project is all about balance. Softness balances structure. Function balances feeling. New design balances vintage notes. With the client’s design brief calling for a ‘1970s modern’ feel this balance of opposites is appropriate, as the project balances clean, contemporary lines with materials that feel warm, familiar and enduring. 

The materials used in this project create an overall nostalgic quality in keeping with the vintage aesthetic of the client’s home. This kitchen warm, using the rosy colour of the bar stools to combine with the neutral Dekton stone benchtop and splashback, which perfectly complements the warm tones created by Polytec’s Tasmanian oak and white cotton laminates. The Tasmanian oak ‘shadow line’ under the benchtop completes the look. 

Warmth is further infused into the project through the homely placement of warm-toned white strip lighting used to brighten the shelving and parts of the walls. The gold-coloured tapware completes the look. 

Matt finishes on the surfaces draw light into the space and avoid hard reflections. This combined with rounded edges on the island benchtop creates a soft space that will feel modern and timeless long into the future. 

The space is also intrinsically practical with ample storage space designed to accommodate a young family. It is also very open plan with no bottle-neck areas and minimal obstructions so that the space can maximise efficiency and allow the whole family to use the kitchen.  

A ‘power’ drawer accommodates charging devices and keep them off the benchtops and a Blum servo drive powered automatic drawer for the waste and recycling bins enables hands-free bin operation. 

The Bora downdraft induction cooktop removes the need for an overhead rangehood, and the two-edged island benchtop seating allows for cohesive family time that includes the household chef in family life.