This project reimagined a conventional, underperforming kitchen within a 1910 villa, transforming it from a predictable white-on-marble interior into a bold, expressive centrepiece. The existing space lacked personality, storage, and functionality, and needed to better connect with the open-plan living areas.

As both a designer and ceramic sculptor, the client sought a creative, material-rich environment that embraced texture and form. The brief called for a kitchen that balanced performance with artistry, becoming a sculptural anchor that injects personality and depth into the wider home.

The design responds with a confident departure from convention, introducing a sculptural, highly resolved interior grounded in form, materiality and flow.
Drawing from the villa’s original hallway arches, softened curves were reinterpreted across joinery and openings to create a cohesive geometric language.
A bold black palette defines the kitchen, enhancing proportion while allowing the client’s colourful art and objects to animate the space. Storage and function were carefully integrated into bespoke joinery, extending into living areas for continuity.
This approach unifies the open-plan layout, creating rhythm, depth and a connected spatial experience.

Material selection was driven by longevity, tactility and environmental responsibility.
Plytech joinery provides a robust, low-waste foundation, featuring a mix of finishes including ultra matte and textural oak in black, complemented by natural oak veneer.
The design pushes technical boundaries through the integration of curved forms adding complexity, requiring precise craftsmanship.
Neolith sintered stone benchtops offer durability and visual impact, while hand-painted terracotta tiles introduce warmth, individuality and artisanal texture. Together, these materials create a refined, resilient interior designed to age gracefully over time.

Innovation is expressed through a redefined spatial geometry, where joinery becomes the primary architectural device. Curved forms and continuous lines extend beyond the kitchen, flowing into living and dining zones to unify the open-plan space.
Bespoke elements including custom lighting and tiles enhance the unique and sculptural quality, while the original Matai flooring was resanded to natural tones to ground the design. A new arched wall connects the kitchen to the butler’s pantry, reinforcing the language of curves. The result is a seamless, cohesive interior defined by rhythm, form and materiality.

Danielle Barclay – Interior Designer and owner
The Kitchen Factory – Joinery and installation
Project by Design – Builder
Plytech – Plywood panels
Neolith – Sintered stone slabs

1. Arched form connecting kitchen to butlers pantry
2.Connectivity through new geometry
3.Materiality palette
4.Seamless integration of appliances
5.Original hallway archway inspiration
6.Textural detail – cabinetry, benchtop and splash back
7.Textural detail – joinery and handles
8.Kitchen showcase
9.Curved details on wrap around tiling
10.Joinery connectivity extending beyond the kitchen to unify the space

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