Designer
Sarah Jennings

Photography
Jamie Cobel

Stanmore Bay

A light, coastal kitchen designed for family living and uninterrupted sea views.

This renovation focused on modernising the home and transforming the open-plan kitchen, living and dining area into a functional space suited to everyday family life. Positioned on a coastal clifftop, the kitchen was designed to maximise uninterrupted sea views while incorporating casual dining and generous work zones.

Working from an initial concept developed by the clients’ interior designer, the layout was carefully refined through close collaboration with the family. The final design balances practicality with clarity — integrating appliances, providing dedicated bench space and incorporating a large corner pantry that allows dry goods and small appliances to be stored out of sight yet remain easily accessible.

Floating shelves were introduced around the window to maintain open views to the garden while creating space to display greenery. These shelves were fully cantilevered with concealed fixings, requiring close coordination with the builder to ensure structural integrity. Custom solid brass rods were detailed to transfer load from hidden stainless steel brackets down to the lower shelf, combining function with refined craftsmanship.

The material palette draws directly from the coastal setting, using warm, earthy tones to introduce texture and softness. White cabinetry was selected in areas of direct sunlight to reduce marking and fingerprints — an important consideration for a young family — while also providing visual relief against timber flooring and veneered cabinetry. Lighter-toned benchtops complete the scheme, reinforcing the relaxed, coastal character of the space.

“Every step of the process with you was exceptional – when we first met with Sarah and her patience and professionalism in accommodating and executing our vision right through to install and ironing out the little details. We are absolutely thrilled with our kitchen and bathrooms! We will always recommend you and your team!”

Key Materials & Features

• Neptune Cabinet System
• Blum Legrabox Silk White Drawers
• Infinity Chianco Di Ostuni Honed Porcelain Benchtops
• Vidaspace Natural Brushed Querkus Veneer Doors & Shelves
• Resene Quarter Thorndon Lacquered Panels
• Lo & Co Lincoln & Curve Handles in Aged Brass
• Brass Shelf Rods & Light Fixture by Powersurge
• LED task and ambient lighting throughout