Christchurch Designer Larissa Breukelaar Wins Best Kitchen Award

Christchurch designer Larissa Breukelaar has been awarded the title of best kitchen designer in New Zealand for her innovative creation in her own family home. Her project, named Whispering Curves, won the top honor in the National Kitchen and Bathroom Association (NKBA) People’s Choice Awards, which were announced on October 6, 2023.

Breukelaar, who operates Modern Age Kitchen & Joinery, crafted the space with a focus on functionality to accommodate her growing family. She aimed for a design that was not only beautiful but also low maintenance, ensuring ease of use in a bustling household. The kitchen features a bright and airy atmosphere, which Breukelaar describes as calming and grounding.

A unique aspect of the kitchen is its connection to a large vegetable garden located just outside. This integration not only enhances the kitchen’s aesthetic but also promotes a lifestyle that embraces fresh produce. The design includes a separate clean-up zone and a designated coffee and bar area, allowing for versatility in daily activities.

The island, characterized by its smooth curves, allows for seating all around, creating a welcoming environment for family and friends. The cabinetry combines sleek white finishes with the warmth of charred walnut, complemented by a thin benchtop and minimalistic handles, resulting in a modern yet cozy feel.

Recognition for Bathroom Design

In addition to Breukelaar’s success, Melanie Sa’u, from the Melanie Sa’u Design Studio in Auckland, received recognition for her bathroom project titled Artful Retreat. This design was awarded best bathroom, reflecting a trend towards creating luxurious, hotel-like experiences in residential spaces.

Sa’u’s design for the master ensuite was influenced by the premium hotels and boutiques frequented by the homeowners during their travels. The aim was to encapsulate a “hotel at home” experience. The bathroom features dark timber tones, aged metal finishes, and bespoke tile work, all combining to create a sophisticated ambiance.

A striking dark-toned vanity anchors the room, crafted in Melteca Boarders Oak. The contrasting solid surface vanity top, adorned with textured veining and a rounded basin, adds a touch of elegance. The overall design is completed with warm Tuscan bronze tapware and hardware, enhancing the luxurious feel.

According to Rachael Kwok, Executive Officer of the NKBA, this year’s People’s Choice Awards highlighted a preference for “bright and light spaces with luxurious finishes” among the discerning public in New Zealand. The People’s Choice Awards follow the annual NKBA Excellence in Design awards, which were determined in September.

These accolades not only celebrate individual creativity but also reflect a broader trend in home design, where functionality meets aesthetic appeal, elevating everyday living spaces into realms of beauty and comfort.