Kitchens: This coastal kitchen blends into its landscape

Bruce Messick: Avantgarde Because the house is atop a ridge, with large glass surfaces and visible from afar, the kitchen had to remain subtle in shape and colour. To achieve the perfect symbiosis we chose Leicht’s ‘139K Lava’ for the perimeter cabinetry; it’s ideal for the natural setting in Muriwai. We used Leicht’s ‘340KH’ on the inner side of both islands to mirror the wood elsewhere in the home and create a connection with the decking outside, while adding a natural touch to the kitchen’s overall appearance. The smooth laminate of the cabinetry is low-maintenance and durable.

Bruce Messick: Full integration of all appliances to achieve a minimalist, handle-less look; symmetrical islands that echo the geometrics of the house itself; low-profile benchtops to add a lightweight, technical touch while reflecting the steel of the house’s exterior; and good overall flow and functionality.

Bruce Messick: It must suit the user’s needs and be efficient. The appliances and main work spaces should be carefully positioned to prevent too much back and forth. The cabinetry should complement the room’s geometry, not contradict it, and there should be only what’s required – the cabinetry shouldn’t completely fill the space. The colour, finish and benchtop material should complement the kitchen, its environment and the building’s character. There should be a well-configured wet area with large-enough sinks.