More to the design of this island than first meets the eye
Space limitations and a response to the strong architectural setting both shaped the design of this kitchen – including its boldly dramatic island
An island has become the go-to design feature in today’s kitchens – its an ideal work surface, can double as a place for casual eating, and is the perfect divider between functional and relaxation zones of a home.
But there can be more behind the design of an island than first meets the eye.
When designer Morgan Cronin was asked to plan the kitchen for this home, the space he was allocated sat next to a living area with strongly architectural features – exposed board-formed concrete walls and fireplace, and an oak ceiling.
“It’s not a big house and I was limited as to how far I could push the kitchen into the living area,” says Cronin.
As result, he had to crimp some space by reducing the island depth to 1m instead of his usual 1.2m.
From here, he set out to give the island a simple but solid look, creating a stone box, which is underlit for extra impact.
“The stone slabs were 3.2m long, so I designed the island box to be 3m,” he says.
“That’s also the exact length of the cooktop bench positioned on the kitchen’s back wall, giving the design a sense of symmetry.”
To create a dining area at the other end of the island, Cronin took a different approach to the usual extension of the top.
“I didn’t want to add another slab with a joint, plus I like any seating areas to be chunkier."
His solution was a table-like structure with a thick top raised slightly above the height of the island. This gives the seating area its own identity while adding another sense of solidity to the overall design.
Credit list
Architect
Cabinetry
Benchtops and splashback
Lighting
Taps
Cooktop
Refrigeration
Water dispenser
Appliance supplier
Kitchen designer
Cabinetry hardware
Flooring
Sink
Ovens
Ventilation
Dishwasher
Wine fridge
Awards
Story by: New Zealand TIDA Kitchens
Photography by: Kallan MacLeod
For more than 30 years, Trends has promoted great home design ideas through its print, digital and online media.The Trends International Design Awards – TIDAs – take that involvement to the next level with the search for the best kitchens, bathrooms and homes across a number of the countries where Trends has a presence.