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.