Home Build | Kitchen Update

Looking back at my Home Build Kitchen Inspiration Post, I'm happy to see that my vision for our new kitchen has been realised, give or take a few things! We've definitely achieved the open-plan space we were after, complete with a large island and as much storage space as we could squeeze in. One of the key things was making the island bigger than what was in the plans originally, and I'm thrilled with that decision. Great for entertaining, it's also made meal and snack times with the kids much easier. In fact, I love nothing more then having them up at the island munching away (often with their friends or our neighbour's kids) as I'm busy working in the kitchen, chatting away to them.

The boys in their usual spots having afternoon tea 

I love the Silestone benchtops which we decided to carry through to the backbench and splashback. Incredibly hard-wearing and easy to keep clean, the Lagoon design from their Nebula Series has a beautiful marble look, while the 20mm width and waterfall design has contributed to the timeless, elegant feel I was after. We're also thrilled with the cabinetry, which we took as high as the plans would allow, matching the colour to the walls in Resene Black White. The soft close cupboards and drawers were definitely worth the investment.


The flooring is an Engineered Timber in White Ash by DFD. All Appliances are by Fisher & Paykel  

Gorgeous Falcon Enamelware and a Cotton & Flax Teatowel from LET LIV

With the dining table being adjacent to the island, I decided from the start that I only wanted statement pendant lighting over one or the other, and because I had my heart set on the Lee Bloom Crystal Lights, the island seemed most fitting. As it turns out, as beautiful as they are, they do not provide the necessary task lighting for working in the kitchen, so that idea was aborted. Instead, I chose to focus on the dining table with the Muuto Unfold Pendants, and I couldn't be happier. We also sourced some Eric Therner Diamond Lights for the living area, which are a cheaper alternative to the Lee Broom, but will give the space the pretty, delicate touch that I want.



More goodness from LET LIV with the ACME & CO cups and saucers. Still on the kitchen wishlist, and what I really need right now is that Nespresso machine! The Fog Linen Tray and Cloud chopping board are from Father Rabbit.

As far as functionality goes, the extra deep sinks are a favourite feature as they keep dirty dishes out of sight when entertaining, and while I'm taking photos for that matter! The extendable tap which is something I've always wanted makes washing up super easy, and the built in rubbish and recycling bins are also fabulous!

For a while there I really struggled to find barstools that I liked, that were also affordable. To contrast with the metal dining chairs I wanted wooden stools that could take a few knocks from the kids, as I knew they'd be getting up and down from them all the time. Not long before the big move, Mocka announced news of a new product, the Hudson Stool. I was thrilled. As one of my trusty go-to local furniture and homewares company for both kids and adult spaces, this stool is a replica of one of my all-time favourite designs by Alvar Aalto. 

Stylish but without the price tag, they are perfect for our home and lifestyle right now. Arriving flat-packed they were easy to assemble, and the kids love them. Placing adhesive felt to the bottoms of the legs has made them really smooth along the floor and I've had loads of positive comments already.


We love our Hudson Stools from Mocka

Here are some of my Instagram kitchen pics to finish off (follow me @thedesignchaser), including one of a surprise hamper that arrived from our building company Property Partners today! Great timing for the weekend, which I'm so looking forward to after a huge week. Have a good one and I'll see you back here on Monday.  

Images via my Instagram