6 Interior Designers, 6 Dream Schemes
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Amy Dalrymple
In a family kitchen, comfortable dining chairs and a table which can be used for entertaining, as well as drawing with the children, is ideal. We have added an Aga in this space – perfect for drying clothes and for cooking. We like to introduce antique furniture into the kitchen layout to stop the room from feeling too built in – this vintage dresser adds charm and additional storage. Sometimes marble gets a bad rap but, as long as you look after it, it can add so much character. For a family kitchen, we would always incorporate two dishwashers – one standard and one quick drawer washer for a speedy turnaround.
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Irene Gunter
There’s something very soothing about a more classical kitchen in a family home. With its gentle steps and easily maintainable paint finish, it immediately puts you at ease – especially in this vibrant burgundy red paint. No family kitchen is complete without a sociable island. The beautiful curves on the stone island are incredibly tactile, and using a natural quartzite material delivers the beautiful veining of natural stone while also being incredibly robust. I was introduced to the idea of a leather-topped dining table at Core by Clare Smyth, and I was amazed at the practicality. Not only it is it incredibly satisfying to put your cutlery or glass down on without it making a clanging noise, it wraps beautifully around the curved table edges.
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Linda Boronkay
While a kitchen must be functional, I also like it to feel approachable and comfortable. It’s a space where family and friends come together – be it for cooking, entertaining, chatting, having a morning coffee or doing homework with the kids. A large kitchen island or central table is a key focal point, and a collection of comfortable but visually interesting bar stools invites plenty of interaction. I like this space to feel timeless, so materials such as reclaimed timber flooring, marble counter tops and ceramic wall tiles are always a winner, plus they do well with the wear and tear of coffee spills and other mishaps. The calm Bauwerk wall finish accompanied by the muted butter yellow of the joinery provides a soft, unassuming backdrop – I always opt for a variety of vintage, handmade pieces to add character. This dotted sheer drapery is also fun and soft. Finally, lighting is essential to create the right mood. This statement brass collection of pendants combines the perfect amount of task lighting and playfulness.
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Gemma McClosky
The kitchen is the heart of the home and the space you can safely say will be used the most. For that reason it’s important to invest in quality appliances and goods that will stand the test of time – for example, the Dualit toaster is a classic. We also live more dynamically nowadays, so the kitchen should support this lifestyle; it’s not just for preparing or eating food. It must feel welcoming, comfortable and like a place you want to congregate. Diffused lighting and a runner will give it a warmer ambiance. Even though a kitchen is a functional space, it shouldn’t be boring. Remember to inject colour and fun where possible, even in the small things like the olive oil dispensers and tea towels.
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Scarlett Hessian
Creating a family kitchen comes with the knowledge things are going to take a bit of a beating, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be a sophisticated space. Mixing materials is always our preference; don’t be afraid to have different hardware finishes, timbers or stone throughout the space as this adds character and nuance. Combining antique pieces such as an old dresser to show off, or hide, your crockery, glassware or cookbooks can soften a contemporary space. Using stone alternatives for countertops is favourable as it’s hardy and won’t mark over time. Combining different panelling details for the wall cabinetry to the island also helps to break up the kitchen and make the island feel like a piece of separate furniture. An integrated fridge is another good way to make the space feel less utilitarian, while outdoor fabric on the upholstery is a practical way to add texture.
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Maya Salfati
The kitchen is typically one of the home's most practical and chaotic zones. I sought to inject warmth and a sense of peacefulness, but infused with a contemporary edge. Earthy hues and soft textures – exhibited through the jute oval rug, cushions and two-tone throw – bring the outdoors in while contributing to the desired warm effect. The rattan sideboard conceals clutter, while the shelving of the industrial kitchen island (on wheels) can house multiple items. Copious seating, including a breakout corner with a cushioned bench, is designed to bring family members together. Lastly, the barstools' rounded arms, the patterned cushioning, and the various wipeable surfaces are fitting for a family kitchen.
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