It has become a common renovation

It has become a common renovation – gutting the rear of an old villa to accommodate a spacious, open-plan living area. Refurbishments such as these invariably include a new kitchen, designed on sleek, modern lines. Kitchen designer Robyn Labb says for this remodelling project the owner wanted a light look. "Visually, the kitchen couldn't be too dark or heavy," she says. "The owner also wanted something a little different – something that would set it apart."

The solution was a streamlined design featuring back-lit glass cabinetry and stainless steel trim.
"Many kitchens feature a similar design, in terms of the sink on the island and the cooking centre behind," says Labb. "So, for this kitchen, the difference is literally in the detailing. Specifying a thin 20mm benchtop, rather than a more predictable deep benchtop, was one point of difference. The stainless steel banding was introduced to balance the depth of the benchtop."