Curve and Character
When designer Ellen Smyth from Daniel George Kitchens took on the challenge of redesigning this family kitchen, the clients sought a space that was both functional and reflective of their personal style. While they had a clear aesthetic vision, they needed a professional touch to turn their ideas into reality.
That’s where Daniel George Kitchens stepped in to deliver a stunning transformation.
Collaborative Vision
“The client had some previous designs done which they liked but didn’t necessarily love,” Ellen explains. “We collaborated to meet their functional needs and keep elements they liked while bringing the design more in line with their aesthetic vision.”
The journey from concept to completion was one of fine-tuning, with every detail carefully considered to deliver a space that is not only beautiful but also functional for the family. The result is a warm, cohesive kitchen that has exceeded expectations.
Functional Cohesive Layout
The clients came to Ellen with clear ideas about what they wanted but needed help to refine and integrate their wishlist into a cohesive design. This collaborative approach was evident throughout the process, particularly when it came to the placement of key appliances.
“We went back and forth with the client over the best place for the fridge, freezer, pantry units, and oven units,” Ellen recalls.
“It was important to find a balance between functionality and how the kitchen looked. They settled on this design as it kept the window reveals the same to create visual balance but allowed us to keep everything close together for a nice flow throughout the kitchen.”
By preserving the visual harmony of the space while ensuring practicality, Ellen’s team created a layout that works seamlessly for everyday use.
Key Features
At the core of the design brief was a desire to incorporate a range of key features into the kitchen.
“The client wanted an island with a downdraft hob, a breakfast larder, a curved pantry, eye-level ovens, good flow and storage throughout, and a light, neutral colour palette,” Ellen explains.
“They also wanted the space to feel warm but with darker wood tones inside.”
Curved Features
A particularly unique feature of the design is the curved corner pantry, which the client was keen to include but had struggled to source in earlier designs. “The curved pantry was something they really wanted, so we made sure this was incorporated,” says Ellen.
Another standout element is the curved unit on the return side of the L-shape, which adds softness and flow to the layout. “We included the curved unit to create a unique shape rather than just a straight run,” Ellen explains. These curved elements not only add visual interest but also tie the design together, providing a sense of harmony throughout the space.
Attention to Detail
Ellen believes it’s the smaller details that bring this kitchen to life. “The mixture of different types of handles, the wood tones peeking through from the tray slots, the detail in the cornice and plinth, the beaded frame, and the details in the door style all contribute. It’s a relatively simple design, but it’s brought to life by the seemingly small aspects.”
This meticulous attention to detail extended to the adjoining utility room, where Ellen’s team worked to resolve a tricky challenge. “In the utility, we had to work our magic around some difficult pipework to make sure it was all disguised, but we managed to make it look seamless,” she explains.
Overcoming Design Challenges
While the design process went smoothly, Ellen notes, “The biggest challenge was making sure the
design didn’t feel bitty with all the different elements. We wanted to make sure the plan felt cohesive.”
The final result is a space that feels intentional and harmonious, with each element contributing to the overall design.
Seamless Integration
The clients chose their own appliances, which were sourced from Donaghy Bros, but Ellen and her team ensured these were integrated seamlessly into the kitchen.
Project Timeline
The transformation of this kitchen took just under a year from the initial consultation to full completion. “This varies significantly depending on what stage the project is at before it comes to us,”
Ellen continues. “This build was well underway at the point of initial consultation.” The timeframe allowed for a detailed design process, ensuring every element was carefully considered and executed to the highest standard.
Client Delight
For Ellen, the success of the project is reflected in the client’s reaction. “Our ability to bring in the curved elements really appealed to the client,” she shares. The standout feature for the clients was undoubtedly the curved corner pantry.
“The design is relatively simple, but it’s brought to life by the seemingly small aspects,” Ellen adds.
From the carefully placed appliances to the curved elements that add softness and flow, this kitchen is a space that balances beauty and practicality—a quality synonymous with the expertise of Daniel George Kitchens.
