A Multi-Functional Kitchen Reflects Modern European Luxury

This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features an open-plan kitchen design by 2022 SBID Awards Finalist, Concepts by Gavin Hepper.

What was the client’s brief? 

We were engaged to transform the interior spaces of this new build into an elegant Australian home, reflecting a modern European luxury. To bring a WOW factor, being a family home the kitchen in particular needs to be durable and functional for a large extended family that enjoy cooking and entertaining. The client also requested a specific ‘morning’ zone for a coffee and juice bar, and that the space is able to be occupied by multiple people simultaneously. And where possible, the use of products with a sustainable nature was preferred.

What inspired the design of the project?

Drawing on the materiality elements of traditional European luxury interiors of beautiful marbles and metallic finishes and ornate details, we have then interpreted these materials for a modern Australian lifestyle. With a background in joinery, I wanted to bring a handcrafted bespoke furniture element to the project. Specifying a Neolith Sintered Stone in a modern 12mm profile has facilitated some great detail within the design, working with a family run Australian business with a strong sustainability focus to handcraft the timber features and panels really highlight these elements. Working the design to achieve a balance of the scale of the island, anchoring the kitchen within the open plan living area whilst keeping the rest of the space light and provide a seamless transition and flow throughout the home.

What was the toughest hurdle your team overcame during the project?

Being engaged in the project well into construction of the property set some challenges for us, as there had been several significant oversights that we had to deal with.

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

Collaborating with some great brands and suppliers to deliver such a detailed orientated project, working alongside our team of trades to deliver our clients forever home, having clients that welcome you into their homes with such faith and trust to build a space for them to be able to create new memories with their family in, this is the ultimate highlight on our Oxford Project.

Why did you enter this project into the SBID Awards?

To provide an international platform for great functional and beautiful Australian design.

Questions answered by Gavin Hepper, Creative Director, Concepts by Gavin Hepper.