History Revisited
Functionality meets classic good looks in this timeless East Fremantle kitchen.
INTERIOR DESIGN The Kitchen Studio IQ • PHOTOGRAPHY Jody D’Arcy • STORY Elizabeth Clarke
Home design trends may come and go, and designers and architects know that classic kitchens will always be in style. For the traditionalist, elegant timber cabinetry and integrated appliances are essential for imbuing a classic look that feels and operates in a contemporary way.
"Style-wise, a kitchen must stand the test of time," says Attila Roka from The Kitchen Studio IQ, whose signature craftsmanship and detailing are evident in this East Fremantle kitchen. "To make a statement, it's important as designers to understand the owners’ lifestyle and needs.”
Attila worked closely with architect Simon Rodrigues from Rodrigues Bodycoat Architects, and the new kitchen replaces the old kitchen in its original space. Its design needed to fit comfortably alongside new elements, including steel-framed glazing and ceiling features in the adjoining living and dining rooms. Simple, spacious and beautifully orchestrated, it is a masterclass in considered design.
Floor-to-ceiling cabinetwork defines the edges of the space framing the living and dining room threshold. The refrigerator, wine fridge and pantry storage are integrated into the cabinetwork on a rear wall, and a sink and dishwasher are placed on the north wall beneath windows with an outlook to the garden. The vast central island bench imbues a feeling of cosiness within the generous space.
Simon says it was crucial to create a well-proportioned and balanced design. "We paid particular attention to the placement of the wall and tall storage cabinetwork in relation to the island bench, all of which had to fit in a space limited by predetermined dimensions,” he says. “Similarly, the relationship of the cabinetwork with the threshold to the adjoining living and dining rooms and centrally placed fireplace needed to be resolved.”
Unlike past generations when kitchens were strictly off-limits, guests are now welcomed into a place to eat, drink and be merry. This generally occurs around the kitchen island bench, a design element that offers endless possibilities.
"It's exciting to find creative, unexpected and unique ways to include the fundamental necessities of the kitchen in this bench," says Attila, who packed this island with practicalities, including a generous seating area, ASKO hotplates and a second sink.
A smart, unobtrusive selection of colours – white, grey and timber – imbues a feeling of style and spaciousness. Oak veneer and stone grey painted 2pac cabinetry is elevated with brass grilles and classic bronze hardware. The benchtops and splashback feature a fresh, matte-engineered stone that references the cabinetry palette and the crisp white fireclay sink, which, Attila says, takes the space to a new level. "A butler's sink incorporated into a well-designed contemporary kitchen subtly blends a sense of timeless quality with the overall feel of the space," he says. “It’s game-changing.”
Classic yet contemporary, from its patinaed brass detailing to a modern Ralph Lauren statement light, there is much to love about this space. “A kitchen should be practical with a good flow and feel inviting,” says Attila. “It’s important to remember a utilitarian kitchen isn't just designed for functionality."
The cabinetry’s clean lines provide a contemporary feel to the space and its elegant bronze handles offer subtle detailing. Behind closed doors, there is generous storage, including a large appliance cupboard that houses coffee, tea and breakfast essentials.
Classic cabinetry juxtaposes with contemporary appliances, including a sleek wine fridge. Clever storage in the form of open shelves is a place to stash cookbooks and display treasures. Beautifully formed steel-framed doors provide a glimpse into the next-door living room.
The reversible butler’s sink includes a large single and half bowl, accessorised with elegant Armando Vicario tapware. Beautiful Cosentino engineered stone applied to the splashback and benchtops provides the perfect backdrop for kitchen essentials.
A fireplace from Subiaco Restoration bridges the gap between the kitchen and the living and dining spaces. The kitchen’s porcelain floor tiles run down the steps into the adjoining space, meshing effortlessly with mink-toned engineered European Oak floors.
The Kitchen Studio IQ
2/174 Stirling Highway, Nedlands
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