KBDI Awards Finalists

DESIGNERS

GHADEAR TADROS & JEAN HILL KELLYVILLE KITCHENS

AWARDS CATEGORY LARGE KITCHENS NSW

This bright, large and airy kitchen was a unique challenge for Kellyville Kitchens. The previous space had an ineffective layout with a much smaller footprint and insufficient storage. There needed to be room for entertaining, plenty of space for appliances, and designated storage within easy reach and to increase the overall area by at least half again. The designer also had to account for ongoing renovations that would adjust where the homeowners’ living room would be located. By removing stud walls, relocating the sink and changing the orientation of the kitchen, this room is not only visually

impactful, but far more streamlined to use. The use of bright white across the cabinetry and ceiling makes the room feel more elevated and enhances the high stud, as well as creating more space for storage. The clean lines of the timber-look ceramic floor tiles add natural texture and bring warmth to the space, while the polished chrome fixtures and appliances keep things modern. The new sink placement in the island, accompanied by the seating area at the bench, creates both a welcoming and highly functional finish.

DESIGNER

ALYSIA PEKEL WESTERN CABINETS

AWARDS CATEGORY LARGE KITCHENS WA

Seeking to create a fresh, new and modernised space that would work well with the rest of their house, the homeowners wanted a kitchen that was more functional and that flowed easily into the dining and living areas. They wanted to add a more industrial touch to the design, with ample space for food preparation and an overall sleek finish.

The result combines blacks with the warmth of timber that can be found throughout the rest of the home's interior. By incorporating the natural timbered bar area near the kitchen

entrance, there’s cohesion between the kitchen and surrounding spaces for when the family entertains. The bright downlights help to softly illuminate the room, while the gentle curves around the cabinetry add depth and dimension.

Aside from the contrasting tones, texture was added by using a blend of matt finishes across the cupboards and shelving, while the bright countertop and splashback bounce light around. The slick counter cooktop marries seamlessly into the space in keeping with its streamlined design.

DESIGNER

ROBERT BAYLY ROBERT BAYLY DESIGN

AWARDS CATEGORY LARGE KITCHENS SA

This space posed a unique challenge. It had not been updated in 25 years and was lacking in both functionality and design. The original appliances were outdated and the layout needed changing to increase utility and create more bench space.

Seeking to create a space that felt more contemporary and that linked to the outdoor and casual dining area, the homeowner also wanted the design to be in keeping with the existing rooms. The room increased the kitchen space by half, which provided more room to work with but also required careful consideration when the orientation and layout were redesigned. The end result is a bright, polished design with new

appliances that add the sought-after modern edge, while the Baltic pine floors soften the look with a more natural touch.

The kitchen now has twin access to create flow and cohesion with the rest of the home, working with the grain of the timber to make for a more harmonious visual effect. The kitchen spans seamlessly into the dining area and also benefits from considerably more natural light post renovation. There’s a balance of open and hidden storage, as well as considerably more bench space and a specially designated area for the coffee machine.

Build Catalano Kitchens

DESIGNER

VERONA SEARCHFIELD AVID INTERIOR DESIGN

AWARDS CATEGORY LARGE KITCHENS QLD

This beautiful reimagining of a country-style home was the end goal for the young family living in this Brisbane home. They wanted something updated that would bring a sense of lightness into the room as well as increasing storage and counter space. Previously, the interior was in good condition but wasn’t fit for purpose and felt a little dated. They also needed a kitchen that would still fit in with the open-plan living and dining area and the original floors. Maintaining the layout and avoiding redoing the flooring entirely presented a challenge, but this reinvigorated space now has a sense of fresh modernity.

Floor-to-ceiling cabinetry has increased storage in the kitchen considerably. The almost satiny finish of the cupboards is easy to maintain as well as bringing in more light to the area. The updated layout makes for a more functional space, as well as delivering the designated zones for food prep that the homeowners were seeking. The larger island with the pendant lights overhead creates a welcoming space for meals and entertaining, while the overall atmosphere is perfect for this growing family. The result is a bright and welcoming space that will evolve with the homeowners over time.

Joinery C&D Joinery

Photography The Design Villa

DESIGNER

SHEENA HANKS INKA INTERIORS

AWARDS CATEGORY ALL BATHROOMS QLD

This beautifully finished ensuite bathroom was designed by Inka Interiors to offer a tranquil space to refresh and unwind. The space was previously uncompleted, with a small shower in the back corner, an unused sunken spa bath that made the room feel a little dated, and a very exposed toilet. The challenge and key focus for the designer was to make this large space feel more intimate, private and less open. The family also wanted a colour scheme and style that would complement their already finished kitchen.

To achieve this, the bath, shower and dressing table all had to have the right scale to occupy the area. By creating distinct zones for each, the bathroom

now has both a calming feel as well as wonderful functionality with generous new storage space.

The deceptively clear vanity hides undercounter basins, cleverly freeing up space on the exquisite marble top.

The dusky blue tone on the cabinetry completes the calming hues and influence of this room, while the backlit and visually appealing round mirror is the finishing touch for hair and makeup checks.

Combining spaciousness, functionality and luxury in one, this bathroom offers a versatile space that enables the family to get ready at the same time while still providing a sense of privacy.

Build HMD Building

DESIGNER

HILARY WARD URBAN KITCHENS AND JOINERY

AWARDS CATEGORY KITCHENS PLUS QLD

This large, open kitchen was a unique opportunity for a fresh start for this family of five. Previously, the kitchen was located in a different part of the house and was too small and cramped to fully use or enjoy. It was moved alongside the living area and the design needed to work cohesively with the existing style of the home. The homeowners wanted more bench space, enough seating for three children, and a colour palette and design that was striking yet practical.

The designer achieved this beautifully by capitalising on the high ceilings of the

home, whilst retaining the original flooring. By including vertical timber battens that draw the eye up and complement the existing floorboards, an impressive focal point for the kitchen has been created. A new generous island bench provides enough space for entertaining and food prep, delivering a more open-plan and spacious kitchen. The warmth of the wood contrasts with the cooler tones across the base cabinetry and bar stools to give the homeowners the modern, mid-century edge they were looking to achieve. Build Urban Kitchens and Joinery

DESIGNER

JO BYROM INTERIOR DESIGN BY JO

AWARDS CATEGORY KITCHENS PLUS QLD, TRADITIONAL OR THEMED DESIGN

Tasked with updating a dated kitchen and bathroom, Jo has completely transformed these spaces and aimed to increase both visual appeal and functionality. The kitchen was a dark space with a disjointed flow for working in and an ineffective butler’s pantry. Now, this room is light and airy with enough space to host guests, all while utilising the new spacious butler’s pantry, dual ovens and open-plan dining space. Although the existing plumbing system posed some challenges and limitations, the kitchen is brighter, more efficient and a more welcoming room to enjoy.

The bathroom previously felt crowded, especially for a family with three teenagers, and had an old-fashioned feel from the inset bath.

In keeping with its Federation Queenslander origins, the bathroom now boasts a beautiful claw-foot bathtub with classic white and blue tiles underfoot. Maximising the space, a twin vanity offers more room for this large family to get ready together. The toilet is discreetly tucked away behind a partition, while by contrast, the glass panel enclosing the shower allows light to flow through effortlessly, making the space feel larger.

By combining bold colour with chrome details in the hardware, this bathroom now has a timeless and elegant feel.

Kitchen & bathroom build Makings Of Fine Kitchens & Bathrooms, Accurate Building & Construction

DESIGNER

JAYNE AIR JAYNE AIR INTERIORS

AWARDS CATEGORY KITCHENS PLUS QLD

An abundance of space thanks to a recent extension gave this family the opportunity to reimagine the kitchen of their dreams on the opposite side of their home. As a family of four with two young boys, they needed more space, better functionality for everyday use and an area they could proudly entertain in.

Both parents love to cook so it was important that the layout was arranged with children in mind and in a way that allowed for minimal interruptions whilst preparing for busy mealtimes. The boys have easy access to drinks and snacks — without the need to run right through the kitchen — and with the addition of the expansive island

bench, they can happily carry out homework or chat with mum and dad at the same time.

The island bench allows for both family and friends to gather with direct views to the surrounding bushland from within this amazing treehouse-style home. Storage is plentiful and the prep area continues under the gorgeous timber framed windows through to the butler’s pantry.

Filled with light and complementing the existing features of the home, the palette picks up the lighter timber tones of the existing floor and the main cabinet colour brings the greens and grey-blue colours in from the surrounding displays of nature.

Build Kitchen Crew

DESIGNER

DANIEL BARNS SENSATIONAL KITCHENS

AWARDS CATEGORY LARGE KITCHENS NSW

The homeowners of this property had been living with a narrow, galley-style kitchen for four years and wanted to update it. It didn’t utilise the space well and had limited storage and no pantry. The key objectives were to increase cupboard and drawer space, install a canopy to conceal the rangehood, and they favoured a more traditional style for the space. They were open to suggestions from the designers, providing whatever was done would increase utility and make it a more functional and open space to live in. There were a few challenges given the narrow profile of the kitchen, as well as a few skylights in the ceiling.

The designers decided to keep the original floor plan but rearranged the appliances and sink to give it a better flow. A new freestanding oven was a must, which was placed centrally for easy access. The butler sink can be used from both sides and there’s now ample storage space, with beautiful glass accents on the vertical cupboards. The brass finishes add an extra touch of traditional elegance, while the strong contrast of black and white makes for a timeless and classic look with bold impact.

Build Sensational Kitchens

DESIGNER DANIEL BARNS SENSATIONAL KITCHENS

AWARDS CATEGORY LARGE KITCHENS NSW

This stunning Hamptons-style kitchen is the latest offering from Sensational Kitchens. The homeowners wanted an open-plan haven that included ample living space made up of the kitchen, a dining room and a casual sitting room. The client engaged builders to remove a wall that enclosed the kitchen and installed large windows to create a connection to a new outdoor deck area.

With walls removed, a beam across the room and a post in the centre of the new room had to

stay, so they were incorporated into the island. Sensational Kitchens designed stunning panels to wrap around the post to match the cabinetry. This is a stellar example of how problem solving can lead to a wonderful opportunity to create something bespoke. Such a large island also afforded the owners the luxury of cabinetry on both sides of it — it was full depth, so there was plenty of storage space.

The designer created a woodlands canopy to suit the space. The fluted pillars on either side

of the cooktop pull out to provide practical oils and spice drawers. The Blum Aventos HL doors conceal appliances, keeping the benchtops uncluttered. With attention to detail a highpriority in their client-focused approach, Sensational Kitchens also accompanied the client to their stonemason. Together they developed a special take on the lamb’s tongue edge profile to match the door profile.

Design Daniel Barns

Build Sensational Kitchens

DESIGNERS

EBONY ACHLATIS & ANNE ELLARD KBK KITCHENS

AWARDS CATEGORY LARGE KITCHENS QLD

With two kitchens in the Large Kitchens category for Queensland, both Ebony and Anne have created beautiful new spaces for these homes. Ebony’s kitchen creates a light and bright space with an open-plan design. She incorporated crisp white tones throughout, with warm timber accents that are complemented by the green hues of the cupboards. It creates a cohesive feel while still giving the space unique and distinctive areas for food prep, storage and entertaining. The vertical lines of the kitchen island flow seamlessly into the timber flooring to

create natural flow into the surrounding areas. Anne’s design has a slightly moodier tone, mixing a beautiful palette of warm walnut wood with the crisp black accents across the hardware, appliances and lighting. The cool grey on the splashback and countertop bounce light throughout the room and add a focal point to the space. By creating a highly functional kitchen with more storage, easy-to-access workspaces and ample room for guests, this room strikes a perfect balance between utility and comfort for the homeowners and guests to enjoy.

DESIGNER

KATE ANDERSON KATE ANDERSON DESIGN

AWARDS CATEGORY KITCHENS PLUS QLD

A transformative renovation by Kate Anderson Design (KAD) saw the existing open-plan kitchen created into a contemporary coastal space for these clients. Tapping into serene colours and textures that reference the home's natural surrounds has worked to add a luxurious feel and intrigues every guest that walks into the space. From the white American oak veneer to the finer hints of brass detailing, this kitchen is one to be desired.

The clients wanted to achieve better work flow within the space, without being disconnected when entertaining friends and family.

New integrated appliances ensure a seamless look and flow and hidden internal white American oak veneer has been incorporated into the pantry and drinks station.

KAD updated the orientation of the kitchen, allowing for a large increase in cupboard space. It also provided a work area that was nearer to the island so cooking, working and entertaining could be done at the same time. A bold neon light hangs overhead and offers the ultimate wow-factor, which is sure to be a talking point for all who visit.

Build Kate Anderson Design, Culture House

DESIGNER

ROCHELLE MORRIS NUDGE INTERIORS

AWARDS CATEGORY MASTER SUITES VIC

The homeowners of this new Mornington Peninsula abode desired to create an escape from suburban life that struck a balance between modern luxury and a relaxing ambience. Rochelle from Nudge Interiors was involved with this project from the very beginning, assisting to plan, design and execute this dream into reality.

With collaboration being a key component in the way she works, Rochelle was able to guide the owners throughout the entire selection process. The colour palette was inspired by the beautiful coastal surrounds and the owners were very trusting in the team’s expertise,

opting to go for a darker palette within the main bedroom and ensuite, connecting to the bold exterior of the home.

The selected colours, coupled with a blend of mixed textures, help to maintain a balance of light and dark tones, with timber and stone adding natural texture and visual appeal.

A sophisticated and luxurious space, underpinned by a serene tone, this room has become a haven. The final result is a cohesive master suite that is an ode to its coastal views and is paired beautifully with modern accents. Build Burcon Constructions

Photography Kate Hansen Photography

DESIGNER

ROBYN COTÉ INSPIRED INTERIORS

AWARDS CATEGORY KITCHENS PLUS NSW

This bold and bright kitchen from Inspired Interiors has been totally transformed to cater to the needs of a family of five. The key objectives were to bring more light into the space, as well as make it a more cohesive and functional room. Prior to the renovation, the U-shaped island made the kitchen feel more divided and separate from the dining area. The contrasting dark and light tones create balance and make the space feel fresher than its previous dark and dated cherrywood finish. Now, it brings together beautiful bright whites and deep moody blues, creating a contemporary, modern feel.

There’s cleverly hidden drawer storage throughout that increases space in the kitchen, as well as a butler’s area that fits seamlessly with the design. It’s a more cohesive and open-plan space that can accommodate the family as well as create a welcoming room that unifies the food prep and dining areas.

Build Farrugia Kitchens & Joinery

DESIGNER

HELEN BAUMANN HELEN BAUMANN DESIGN

AWARDS CATEGORY KITCHENS PLUS NSW

Located in Sydney, this beautiful Californian-style bungalow had a dated kitchen that no longer matched the rest of the home. The family of four wanted to update it for both aesthetic and functional reasons and were seeking to create something more practical and welcoming that flowed into the surrounding areas. The ideas included a very minimal and neutral palette with black and white, with a better layout and the addition of a butler’s pantry and discreet breakfast nook for coffee making and food prep.

The kitchen island was rotated 90 degrees to increase functionality and given an updated look with rounded corners, a dark grey base and pale grey benchtop. To increase the space, a new door was created from the kitchen into the old laundry that was converted into a butler’s pantry, which also increased storage and utility room.

The vivid white cabinetry that is used throughout helps to emphasise the high ceilings, while the moody darker tones make for a classic and timeless finish. The result is a fresh, relaxing and contemporary room, fulfilling the family’s desire for a calming yet balanced space, coupled with ample room for functionality.

Joinery WD Interiors

Photography Jacqui Turk

DESIGNER

LISA SANTAMARIA SANTAMARIA DESIGN

AWARDS CATEGORY LARGE BATHROOMS NSW, KITCHENS PLUS NSW

This home was a new build and a fresh opportunity for the owners to create a sanctuary that was both timeless and classic. They wanted to curate a casual and sophisticated atmosphere with colours and finishes that would be both functional and luxurious. The small details were especially important and the kitchen needed to combine utility and visually impactful design, all while offering the perfect spot to host family and friends. Their ensuite was to be an escape, reminiscent of high-end hotel bathrooms while still having a tranquil and homely feel.

The kitchen was designed to host guests at a stunning island bench, with rounded corners to soften the look. It was completed with wood panelling to contrast the white and grey marble

tones spread throughout the stove splashback and marble countertop. Plenty of cupboard storage was installed, along with a secluded food prep area to conceal any mess while the homeowners were hosting.

The bathroom reflects the colour scheme of the kitchen but with a slightly moodier tone, bringing in more greys with pops of bright white. Designed to enable both homeowners to get ready at the same time, the dual showerheads and basins make it functional while still delivering a polished aesthetic. Separated from the bedroom with an opaque sliding glass door, it ties the spaces together while still enabling complete privacy.

Build Orison Homes, Luxurious Kitchens

Photography Ryan Linnegar

DESIGNER

ANDREW WRIGHT WRIGHT DESIGNED KITCHENS & BATHROOMS

AWARDS CATEGORY SMALL KITCHENS NSW, AUSTRALIAN CERTIFIED DESIGNER OF THE YEAR

The design for this kitchen was a unique challenge. It had to factor in Feng Shui, dictating that the oven and cooktop needed to be on the north wall. An old 1930s Art Deco building, this apartment overlooks the stunning views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge. The previous kitchen was closed in, had no views of the surrounding area and was separated from the rest of the home. Seeking to improve functionality and flow, the designer worked closely with a Feng Shui master to incorporate the best colour scheme and layout possible.

To achieve this, the previous master bedroom was converted into a kitchen to improve flow and open the kitchen to the dining and living areas. This change also maximises the use of the magnificent outlook of the home. White was the primary colour choice according to Feng Shui, with soft corners and edges incorporated to reflect the shapes and colours of the ships in the harbour. The curves also brought some of the Art Deco charm back into the space, as well as making for a restful and soft look in this bright, fresh kitchen. Build Wright Designed Kitchens & Bathrooms

THE WARMTH AND WONDER OF TIMBER

Recent advances in manufacturing technologies have sparked a welcome resurgence in timber kitchens and interiors. The look and feel of this natural material inject warmth and personality into any home, so it’s little wonder it features so prominently in the KBDi Designer Awards’ lineup this year.

01 Wild oak adds wonderful warmth to this kitchen, designed by Perth’s Giovanni Giannace of Elementi Concept. Its unique patterning and sumptuous colouring provide a perfect contrast to the polished concrete floors and vintage stainless-steel benchtops, and all three materials have been carefully selected to age gracefully together.

02 Tasmanian oak has been used by Adelaide designer Sophie Doumbiotis, of Sophie Katina, to add character and charm to this rammed-earth home. The warm tones of the timber offset the cool concrete floors and benchtops, while blushing rose splashback tiles provide the perfect romantic complement.

03 Tasked with designing a coastal-come-Scandi kitchen, Sydney designer Matt Michel, of Matt Michel Design, turned to timber. The colour and texture of whitewashed American oak combines with traditional dovetail joinery to create a simple yet striking style statement.

04 Offset by brass detailing, Boston oak serves as a balance to the crisp, fresh whites and marble surfaces in this light, bright kitchen. The work of NSW designer Lisa Santamaria, of Santamaria Design, it embraces the unique textural appeal that timber has to offer.

05 Tasmanian blackwood veneer has been used to full effect by Brisbane designer Hilary Ward, of Urban Kitchens & Joinery, in this galley space. The vertical lines of the battens cleverly mirror the grain in the panelling, and the combination is a true celebration of timber and texture.

PLANNING A new kitchen?

A NEW KITCHEN IS A BIG INVESTMENT,

NEW SPACE

PRETTY.

A kitchen design professional will help you make the best decisions from the beginning, saving you time and heartache in the long run. They’ll consider:

Positioning: what are the rooms adjoining the kitchen? From which direction will the kitchen be entered and exited?

Access and safety: will access to an under bench oven be tricky? Will overhead cupboards be within reach?

Cooking styles: are most meals prepared on the stovetop, baked in the oven or reheated in the microwave or steam oven?

Storage requirements: is shopping done in bulk? Will a new fridge be required now, or should it be allowed for in the future?

Budget: will the kitchen investment be in line with the value of the home?

KBDi Members are committed to their profession, and know all the right questions to ask to get you the kitchen of your dreams. Learn more about our nation-wide membership at kbdi.org.au.

AND YOUR

SHOULD BE AS PRACTICAL AS IT IS