Photography: Anson Smart / Styling: Joseph Gardner
The current version of this home in Sydney’s Upper North Shore is far from its first (or second, or third) iteration. Built in 1918, the abode has spent the better part of a century being renovated. In an attempt to bring the space closer to its original form, interior designer Greg Natale had to almost gut it all and start anew. This includes the galley kitchen.
“The clients wanted the home to feel grand and contemporary, and the galley kitchen was central to achieving that vision,” says Greg of the brief provided by the homeowners, a couple with four young children and pet cats. Positioned within a new open-plan extension at the rear of the house, Greg had to reinstate key aspects of the original architecture alongside modern flair.
What materials are in the burgundy palette?
To blend influences, echoes of tradition abound. A bullnose edge profile on the island recalls heritage character, while the Classic Tiles Calacatta Viola marble across the benchtops, splashback, kickboards and even rangehood is decidedly contemporary. The kitchen island picks up these lashings of burgundy veining with Dulux Red Wine, in a satin-gloss finish. Skinny Shaker-style joinery in Dulux Natural White – free of handles, with the exception of the tall cupboards – is sleek alongside a Novas ‘Frame’ kitchen mixer.
“You don’t want to feel overwhelmed in a room you use daily,” warns interior designer Greg Natale. He cites Calacatta Viola marble and burgundy joinery as the hero materials in this galley kitchen. “They amplify the drama and visual impact of the space while still keeping it practical for everyday use.” Warm white finishes and timber are fresh and grounding. These include hardwood timber parquet floors and Stellar Works ‘Bund’ bar chairs in leather upholstery and a walnut frame, supplied by Living Edge.
Together, the room feels elevated beyond time. “Whether the homeowners are cooking, working or playing with the kids, the redesign feels uplifting and functional,” says Greg.
How to work with a galley kitchen layout
The ceiling arches gracefully above the open-plan space. It encompasses the home’s living, dining and bar area, which is positioned across from the kitchen. Dulux Natural White is on the walls and ceiling. The former has a low-sheen finish, which is more durable and easier to wash. The latter is matte, a finish that hides imperfections with its non-reflective surface. The difference is clever and imperceptible. Two round skylights let the sunshine pour in.
The bar is across from the galley kitchen and makes use of similar materials to create a cohesive whole. However, a bolder use of colour delineates the area in this otherwise warm white open-plan space. Rosso Levanto marble graces the benchtop and two open shelves. The burgundy veining of the stone is even more dramatic than the Calacatta Viola used in the main kitchen, requiring a restrained use. Dulux Red Wine covers the joinery, in conversation with the island profile.
Source book
Interior design: Greg Natale, gregnatale.com.
Builder: Ciolino Constructions, ciolinoconstructions.com.au.
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