A Kitchen Designed for Connection

 

THE BRIEF

Our clients, a professional couple, came to us ready to update their kitchen into a space that truly worked for their lifestyle. They had already spent time researching materials and appliances and had engaged their architect for an initial concept. They were now looking for a team to help refine the design and bring it to life.

The focus was on creating strong connections throughout the home. The kitchen needed to link naturally with the lounge and bar area, while also supporting easy indoor-outdoor flow for entertaining. Sightlines were important, with a clear view through the home and out to the outdoor space.

Functionality sat alongside aesthetics. The brief called for well-defined work zones, practical storage, and high-performing appliances.

 

THE SOLUTION

Working closely with the clients, we developed a design that feels refined, while delivering a high level of performance behind the scenes.

A key feature is the corner pantry with custom pocket doors. To achieve a streamlined look, we designed a system where the doors slide back into a hidden pocket above bench height. This required building a prototype to ensure the doors operated smoothly and cleared surrounding cabinetry without issue.

The island plays a central role in the space, featuring a cantilevered design with a waterfall end. Integrated appliances, including a flush-mounted induction cooktop with integrated extraction, keeps the overall look clean and uncluttered.

Material selection brought warmth and texture into the space. Dekton porcelain benchtops are paired with soft-touch acrylic cabinetry, while American white oak timber screening helps define the connection between the kitchen and bar area. Narrow reeded glass doors, wine glass racks, and layered lighting add detail and function to the bar.

Lighting was carefully planned throughout, including toe kick mood lighting and strong task lighting in the bar and pantry areas. Blum hardware ensures everything feels solid and reliable in daily use.

 

THE RESULT

The end result is a stunning, highly functional kitchen, with a layout that supports easy movement and clear work zones. The connection between the kitchen, bar, and outdoor area encourages people to gather and spend time together.

From the concealed pantry system to the handle detailing and cantilevered island, each element has been resolved with care. While everything on the outside appears simple, there is a high level of complexity within the cabinetry.

This is a kitchen that looks sharp, works hard, and fits naturally into the way our clients live and entertain.

Kim Manunui

Hi, I’m Kim and I work with a great team to help individuals, as well as small and not so small businesses get their message, product and services to the world using digital media and creating wonderful websites that don’t cost the earth.

I was born in Canada, and grew up around Vancouver and the mountains of British Columbia. My love of pristine environments led me to New Zealand and eventually to the mountains, lakes and rivers of the central North Island which is home. My family’s heritage is here, and it’s from here that Korio traverses the planet.

The digital world is never static and neither are we.

And I say ‘we’ because I work with an awesome group of talented people who I gather together as required to complete a project.  Whatever your business, not-for-profit or individual needs are we gather the best team to get the job done.

Collaboratively we are creative, share sustainable values and work hard for great outcomes because that’s the buzz of satisfaction that drives us.

If you have an audience and market to reach, we can make that happen. Creative design, words that work and smart behind the scenes stuff that cuts through the online noise. We’ll design your website and then build it. We’ll manage the content as well as all your hosting needs. We can handle your online advertising so you get noticed,
and we’ll manage your social media presence so you get the clicks, likes and engagement to grow your business. All within the budget you set, because none of this needs to cost the earth.  And the job doesn’t stop when your website goes live. We are your virtual business partner.

https://www.korio.co.nz
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The Forever Kitchen