Cornwallis Kitchen

Designed for a passionate chef, this kitchen balances utilitarian efficiency and conviviality, creating a space that celebrates the joy of cooking.

The layout maximises efficiency while inviting social interaction, with a galley-style design that comfortably accommodates two cooks and a peninsula that seats up to four (with a bit of a squeeze).

Material choices reflect the rigour of professional cooking with a touch of Kiwiana quirkiness—stainless steel for prep, marble for pastry, and solid rimu timer for socialising. Inspired by stainless steel Indian plate racks and train car kitchens, the design integrates structured stainless steel elements and semi-open storage that keeps essentials within reach while maintaining a sense of order. A mobile pastry unit offers flexibility, allowing it to be wheeled around when extra bench space is needed. Semi-open shelving and a suspended pan rack provide quick access to spices and tools, while concealed storage keeps the space organised.

The kitchen embraces the glow of its afternoon sun, with colours chosen to heighten its warmth—a vivid kōwhai yellow backdrop for the shelves and pōhutukawa red framing the peninsula. The rear of the peninsula is tiled with a mosaic depicting the silhouette of Karangahape Cornwallis Peninsula, a nod to its distinct coastal surroundings.