Budget is a top priority for the Smart Kitchen team, and we’re committed to making our products as cost-effective as possible. However, we firmly believe keeping costs down doesn’t have to mean compromising on the quality of finish or design. And this renovation project we recently completed in Sandringham proves this point perfectly.
The owners of this much-loved family home liked the size of their kitchen space but felt it needed an update to open up the space. They also wanted to improve the overall flow of the area, making it more suitable for entertaining.
In addition, they had a desire to update the neighbouring laundry area, increasing the natural light and overall usability of the space. This was another well-proportioned room with a design that was simple but functional – and more than a little dated. As proud rescue pet parents, the homeowners also wanted to make this space more comfortable for their furriest family members.
Given the scope of updates planned, the homeowners were quite budget-conscious. That said, they had clear ideas about their preferred style and still wanted to achieve a high-quality finish. Having read our online reviews, they felt Smart Kitchen was a good fit for their plans and set up a consultation with Andreas, our Moorabbin Kitchen Designer.
Based on the homeowners’ requirements and current pain points, Andreas put together a proposed renovation design. He used Smart Kitchen ’s advanced design software to show the homeowners exactly what he saw for their new space. In addition to helping them picture the planned updates, this allowed them to ensure the design would suit their needs.
To make the most of the available space, Andreas recommended reworking the kitchen’s floorplan to open it up to the surrounding area. This allowed for the inclusion of a large island bench, which is ideal for entertaining. It also improved the room’s overall flow and strengthened the connection to the nearby outdoor living space.
A combination of Black and White Satin Shaker cabinets was used to achieve the desired ‘sleek and stylish’ look. This created a high level of contrast, helping define the space and adding some visual drama. The palette also complemented the existing wood-look flooring and was completed with matching Bosch appliances.
Further reinforcing the contemporary feel, Dekton Entzo Natural was chosen for the benchtops and splashback. This, combined with the waterfall edge on one end of the kitchen island, gives the space a sense of seamlessness.
To optimise functionality, under-bench drawers were included in the kitchen island. This added some variety to the storage options available, with cupboards used throughout the rest of the design.
A large kitchen pantry was also included, sited between the fridge and the cooktop. This helped create a clear activity zone with ample preparation space in the surrounding area.
In the combined laundry butlers’ pantry, to help freshen up the space, Andreas recommended sticking to White Shaker cabinets. To tie in with the existing flooring, these were paired with Duropal benchtops in Natural Chalet Oak. For consistency, Dekton Entzo Natural was also used for the splashback.
The whole look was completed with black knob and shell handles, mirroring the high contrast look of the kitchen.
A large linen press style cupboard was included at one end of the space, perfect for housing cleaning equipment. To further improve the area’s functionality, a small pet feeding station was also built into the overall design. A second dishwasher, sink and fridge were included in this space along with more so the space could not only be a laundry but act as a second kitchen / butler’s pantry.
All renovation works are now complete, and the homeowners are thoroughly enjoying using their updated kitchen and laundry spaces. If you like the look of this design and would like something similar for your home, contact Smart Kitchen today to arrange your free design consultation.