Inhabiting the divide between suburban and rural on the outskirts of New Plymouth, this new home was designed for a family relocating from Auckland to Taranaki. At its heart is a kitchen of unabashed femininity; a persuasive space defined by bold, curving forms and textural delights.
The design was borne from two key elements: a desire to incorporate Italian Calacatta Viola burgundy marble, and a custom-designed 1500mm ILVE free-standing oven. Drawing on these two features, Annika Rowson of Rowson Kitchens devised a space of spectacular proportion — as inviting as it is bold.
The exterior of the house integrates a curving brick wall, which wraps inside at the entry, partially enclosing the scullery and marking a change of pace between entry atrium and kitchen.
Wander past this wall of sandy grey-toned brick and you’re deposited into something entirely unexpected in this quiet west coast setting. There are hints of Parisian influence; here, traditional meets contemporary in a compelling composition that continues the language of curves.
A large custom-designed integrated range hood sits at the centre of the rear wall, its curving edges melting into the wider plane, both of which are finished in a microcement that was hand trowelled onto the surfaces to create a cohesive softness; a cloudy finish across which the light dances accentuating its textural nuances. “It’s a delicate, feminine space but it’s also strong with features like the large range hood.”
Against the femininity of the swirling grey is the statement Viola marble from CDK Stone, which imparts a sumptuous aesthetic with deep burgundy and cream tones in its striking veining. Covering the island and rear bench, as well as an upstand along the rear wall, its boldness is tempered by meticulous detailing.
“We introduced soft curves and gentle radiuses on the island, and on the upstand. I think there’s something special about marble being applied vertically; we wanted it to be appreciated from different viewpoints rather than just looking down on it.”
Set against Allegro oak veneer cabinetry (from VidaSpace), which was custom stained to achieve a warm depth that complemented the burgundy of the Viola, and paired perfectly with the cloudy grey backdrop, it’s a space that feels finely attuned to its function while existing as an objet d’art.
Chrome tapware from Perrin & Rowe imparts an anchoring to the traditional, which Annika speaks of exploring in terms of the idea being “to create a classic elegance with traditional elements within a very contemporary application of materials”.
The open scullery tucked in behind the curving wall allows the material moves to continue seamlessly, with the Viola marble wrapping into the space along with the cabinetry, in which a Fisher & Paykel fridge freezer and a Blum Space Tower pantry is integrated.
A similar language is echoed in the powder room and main ensuite. The former offers playfulness with a vibrant House of Hackney pink-toned wallpaper named Dinosauria presenting another unexpected moment, while luxury is found in an integrated Viola marble basin — a meeting of vibrant tones grounded with elegant curves and negative detailing in the vanity. “It’s fun, but luxe, and powder rooms are the perfect place to have a bit of fun.”
The ensuite, in contrast, is a more serene, traditional space. Another custom vanity here echoes the curves and detailing of the kitchen and powder room, while the Viola marble top becomes the cohesive accent. A free-standing bath and tapware are atop Forté Artiste Da Vinci oak flooring, which is consistent throughout this home of impeccable creative intention.
