Bronte House

Location: Upper Moutere

Designer: Klaus Todt

Photos by: Lifestyle Photography

The Approach

Our brief for this home extension and alteration was to not only create a stylish and functional space, but also to create one that emanates a sense of comfort and calm. Spatial Designer Kate Duncan worked with our overseas-based clients to establish the colour palette and finish, drawing inspiration from the surrounding landscape – a call to what nature had already provided.

Much thought was given to design functionality, colour, texture and surfaces. The result showcases a meticulously planned and connected series of spaces, with a high level of tactility due to the use of steel, linoleum, oak, tile and cleverly integrated paint-finished cabinetry.

Our approach to design and materials is revealed immediately when entering the home, with an integrated seat in oak and near-invisible storage cabinets in the hallways. This philosophy continues throughout the home with smart use of design and colour, resulting in previously ‘dead’ areas now converted into valuable, near-invisible storage space.

The kitchen is the heart of this home, adjoining an open-plan dining and living space – distinct zones that allow the owners to prepare, cook and socialise in the one space. A long bench top features 6 seam-free metres of stainless steel with built-in double sinks, Bora Professional hob and extractor in black, with a bookend custom-coloured solid oak coffee station.

The cabinetry is a combination of oak and linoleum that wraps and integrates appliances, drawers, pantry spaces and a floor-to-ceiling glass cabinet. The social hub of the space is the island, featuring a custom-coloured solid oak top, a casual dining space, a pull-out bar and wine refrigerator.