The homeowners of this unique design collaborated with Ollie McCarter from CS Kitchens to realise their vision. The inspiration for their new kitchen was deeply rooted in the allure of mid-century modern aesthetics. They emphasised the importance of creating a space that flowed well, describing the kitchen as the heartbeat of their home.
The desire for an inviting, warm, and light-filled space led them to consult with Ollie from CS Kitchens. ‘Ollie’s ideas really piqued our interest from the start, and after our initial consultation, ideas just snowballed from there,’ the homeowner begins.
The key priority for the homeowners was achieving a sense of flow throughout the entire space. Working closely with their architect, Robert Jamison, early in the renovation stages, the focus was on harmonising the kitchen’s design rather than solely prioritising functionality. They expressed the importance of the entire space “ebbing and flowing together.”
Material choices played a pivotal role in capturing the desired mid-century modern vibe. The homeowners opted for a polished concrete floor, quartz island, countertops, and high splashbacks, paired with warm wood accents. This combination contributed to the Palm Springs-esque mid-century modern atmosphere they envisioned.
The decision on the colour palette was influenced by the desire for natural warmth and a connection to the outdoors. Surrounded by greenery and natural tones outside, the homeowners chose wood to bring that warmth inside, creating a natural setting within their kitchen.
In response to their young family’s needs, they also introduced a unique and kid-friendly element – a lower breakfast bar with “sushi bar vibes.” This not only enhanced the child-friendliness of the space but also created an inviting atmosphere for family gatherings. Additionally, a downdraft extractor gas stove was chosen to maintain a clean and uncluttered look, especially in a space with exposed steel beams.
Ollie highlights the initial overview from the clients, reinforcing their desire for a mid-century feel throughout the space. The renovation involved significant structural changes, including a new roof, roof light installation, and a polished concrete floor.
Ollie played a role in advising on appliance choices, including a Hisense French-style American fridge freezer and an Elica Nikolatesla flame-extracting hob. Understanding budget constraints, he also helped the homeowners balance premium appliances with more affordable options, depending on visibility.
The extended backsplash and lowered island worktop were thoughtful additions for practicality, especially considering the homeowners’ two small children. Ollie says, ‘The gas hob was a must for one of the homeowners who is a keen chef,’ underscoring the importance of tailoring the design to the homeowners’ specific needs.
Challenges in the project, such as budget considerations and delays, were also discussed. There was an emphasis placed on the importance of giving clients the knowledge to make informed decisions, ensuring the best value for each unique project.
Reflecting on the final result, Ollie credited the success to a combination of form and function, providing a practical working area with a mid-century aesthetic. He shared, ‘They love it, and they spend a lot of time there when at home, so it had to be right.’
As the project unfolded, it became evident that the renovation was not merely about modernising a space but also about capturing the essence of mid-century design timelessly. The deliberate choice of materials, such as the polished concrete floor and warm wood accents, speaks to the enduring appeal of mid-century aesthetics.
The lower breakfast bar, inspired by sushi bar vibes, emerged as a symbol of innovation in family-centric design. It not only catered to the practical needs of a young family but also transformed the kitchen into a
communal space where everyone could participate. Ollie’s insight into the importance of form and function played a crucial role in achieving this delicate balance.
In essence, this kitchen transformation is an enduring allure of mid-century modern design, seamlessly integrated with the evolving needs of a modern family. The homeowners conclude: ‘Ollie, our designer really was on board from the start and we couldn’t be happier with his design and the effort he put into our project. We had met with a few other designers but our interest cooled after seeing their design, whereas Ollie’s ideas really piqued our interest from the start and after our initial consultation.’
