The ambitious renovation of an original Edwardian villa by Jack McKinney Architects and Katie Lockhart Studio introduces tropical modernism with a crafted kitchen at its centre.
Located in the heart of Ponsonby, New Zealand, Franklin Road House is a heritage home set within the constraints of a small 300m² site, with neighbours in close proximity. The design explores opportunities for form, light and space in the new addition whose compact nature belies its soaring volume and whose simplicity channels a heightened emotional impact.
Minimal Mood
The monolithic-like structure holds the kitchen, which was designed to be part of the space as a whole. This approach to the kitchen also meant that the appliance selection, always a critical choice, was even more significant. “While we wanted great appliances, we didn’t want these becoming a feature of the kitchen,” explains the architect, Jack McKinney. “The whole design is about a unified experience, not a series of features. The integration of the appliances and their minimalist design allowed us to keep a contemplative mood in the room.”
It was important that the kitchen was experienced as an integral part of the entire space, not a separate defined zone.
Holistic Interior
Integration is key to maintaining a consistent material palette. As the only two exposed kitchen appliances, it was key that they contributed holistically to the interior. “The black oven is minimal in look and really works well to not add too much visual noise in that space whilst offering the best technology for preparing meals,” describes the interior designer, Katie Lockhart Studio.
Photographer: David Straight
