Our expertise was called upon to deliver some finishing upgrades for this modern white kitchen in Freeman’s Bay. In upgrading this existing kitchen, BoxMakers’ role covered the benchtop, island, and of course, some custom cabinetry.
The first order of business was the kitchen island, which featured an incredibly mature blend of Melteca’s Blackened Ash Organic finish and Forté’s Ebony Rustic Planks. This gives a layered, tactile, and storied appearance that divulges detail to those with a keen eye. Capping it off is Consentino’s Dekton Rem benchtop, whose hurried streaks of stormy veins gently grace the soft white face – a choice pairing for this elegant white kitchen.
Behind it, BoxMakers carefully devised and installed a fridge cabinet – a simple yet effective white shell that handily covers and complements any appliance. We also installed a hidden bin, from Fit NZ’s Simplex series, making waste concealment even more convenient.
Opposite the island, we fashioned a standalone kitchen cabinet, cut and measured perfectly to seamlessly integrate with the finished kitchen height. It features glossy Arctic Ice from Bestwood, combined with the same Ebony Planks found on the island, and adorned with Mardeco’s Kitchen Cup handles. Even more interesting is its internals, which features a sneaky two and a half drawer arrangement with all-Häfele components.
Stretching across the kitchen is the pièce de resistance, in the form of the benchtop. BoxMakers installed Prime Panels’ Papamoa series – a subtly speckled slab in a matured shade of white.
The combination of light and dark elements creates a dynamic sense of contrast in this kitchen, but one thing is for certain – every new addition adds both elegance and maturity.
Designed by: Mona Simathamchai
Looking for new cabinetry or thinking about a kitchen renovation? Call us on 09 827 1177, or send us an email at [email protected]
The second lot of the Sunnynook homes offers a quaint, yet dazzling modern kitchen. BoxMakers took great care to design it with efficiency and space-saving in mind, while touting a full-feature set, sleek new appliances, and of course, loads of quality cabinetry.
Lot 2’s kitchen takes on a distinct identity thanks to its cosy upstairs location. It uses a single wall + island layout, and is accompanied with plenty of natural light thanks to a convenient splashback window and a beautiful sliding door. Similar to the other lots, the kitchen combines Prime Panels’ Quarter Thorndon Cream with Melteca’s Aged Ash for a white & light wood finish.
The kitchen island applies the woodgrain to great effect, with convenient table-end shelving below a white benchtop. Above, the warm, golden glow of the island pendant lights conjure magical moments in the evening, bathing the kitchen with a soft, nurturing radiance.
For such a compact kitchen, it certainly packs quite the repertoire of storage. Including everything from overhead handleless doors, to hanging cubbies, to cornerside shelves, this assortment of cabinetry allows this kitchen to punch well above its weight.
Keeping consistent with this blend of modernity and practicality, even the smaller lot 2 kitchen holds its own thanks to a clever implementation of cabinetry and well-integrated appliances.
Designed by: Mona Simathamchai
Looking for new cabinetry or thinking about a kitchen renovation? Call us on 09 827 1177, or chuck us an email at [email protected]
Often notorious for being the most expensive amongst interior work, pricing a kitchen renovation can be a scary process, especially if your ambition outpaces your budget. This was the case for many decades, where it was only possible to get high-end looks with high-end spending – but no longer. Getting a film-worthy kitchen is more viable than ever.
Attaining a pricey-looking kitchen for cheap is all about distributing your budget. For a typical kitchen, you should put an emphasis on visuals. Walk through your kitchen as though it were an open home – what do you first see? The elements that take up the most visual real estate are the cabinetry and benchtop, then the lighting and splashback. A premium-looking kitchen revolves around aesthetic investment. This also works incredibly well for boosting your home value.
Here are some tips for the most essential parts of a kitchen:
Benchtop – Getting the look and feel of genuine imported Italian marble used to be a costly endeavour. With engineered stone, you get superior durability and usability while accurately replicating the mesmerising tones and intricate weaves of Calacatta or Statuario – all for a fraction of the price.
Cabinetry – Consistence and modernity are key to making your cabinets punch above their weight class. MDF is a reliable core material, and can support an incredible range of surfaces from realistic veneers to glossy laminates. It can be an affordable combination for shiny cabinets in your colour of choice.
Lighting – Often overlooked as an optional kitchen accessory, good lighting can practically transform your kitchen. Pendant lights, under-cabinet lights, and toe-kick lights can seriously give the impression of a premium kitchen while adding practicality. Even a handful of select, budget-friendly options can make a big difference.
Splashback – While acrylic splashbacks may be the most affordable, they may not pass the eye test when under scrutiny. Tile splashbacks provide a genuine look and feel with plenty of affordable options. Both offer high variety in terms of looks but tiles will hold up better over time.
Layout – The flow of a kitchen is essential to a “luxury” feel. Openness is king in the modern landscape. Layout changes, however, can be an unnecessary expense as it requires more work in design and service connections. You should consider a layout change if your kitchen feels obstructed. A good kitchen should never feel difficult to enter.
Hardware – Complete your kitchen with finishing touches. Among kitchen hardware, handles are the most visually prominent. They can be subtle, eye-catching, or anything in between – even budget handles offer premium aesthetics nowadays. Tactilely, soft-close mechanism can make cabinet operation feel premium, and in-cabinet storage solutions provide practical packing – their value is seen through daily use.
Appliances – Pick mid-range appliances from known brands. Don’t be upsold on rarely-used features offered by their flagship range. Realistically, their mid-tier offerings have a more than ample feature set for day-to-day use.
Luxury doesn’t have to be replicated through cost alone. Through careful selection and thoughtful planning, you can achieve the look of kitchens many times your budget while still having incredible performance.
Tucked away in Tawharanui Peninsula, this reclusive yet beautiful home called upon BoxMakers for a wardrobe, mini pantry, and bathroom vanity. Crafted primarily for guest use, these upgrades were made to add both function and cosmetic coherence. Being within a luxury home, BoxMakers took great care to not only uphold, but elevate its high-class standards.
The unique onyx theme stemmed from both the owner’s preference, as well as the surrounding textures. Most notable is the vertical fluting on the face panels, which was inspired by the suite’s woodwork. For this, BoxMakers used Dezignatek’s Prague series of Thermofoam, finished in Black Bark. The deep, tactile ridges bring forth a unique modern design, especially when combined with its trapezoidal handles from Mardeco’s 3210 range. The Brushed Nickel finish adds a distinctive steely touch.
Above, the benchtop marks the return of UniQuartz’s Brown Forest finish, an ideal pairing for dark coloured cabinetry. Stealthily streaked with earthy veins, it effortlessly adds both character and nuance to this quaint kitchenette. The overhead cabinets operate on a handleless design and offer plenty of storage space while below, a mini bar is perfectly situated for a refreshing summer drink. Combined, it encourages visitors to feel like more than just a guest.
In the guest bedroom, BoxMakers installed a full-fledged wardrobe unit featuring a complete suite of drawers, shelves, and rods, as well as a full height mirror. Finished in Melteca’s Borders Oak Organic, this wardrobe fits perfectly with the bedroom’s fluted wall panel. We aimed to maximise smoothness and operability with Enko’s Anthracite-finished Slimbox drawer system. Even the wardrobe rails came in black, sourced from SD Aluminium.
Also part of our renovation work was the bathroom vanity, which featured the same Dezignatek fluted panels and Mardeco handles. Unique to the bathroom was the carcass material, which sported a mixed core plywood substrate for improved strength and weight support. This kept the design language consistent while also being highly performant.
This renovation appears sleek and modern at a distance, but only upon closer inspection will you find the natural elements intertwined within; a hidden gem, much like the residence as a whole. Combined with sprawling views of Kawau Bay, every guest is sure get the full luxury experience.
Designed by: Mona Simathamchai
Looking for new cabinetry or thinking about a kitchen renovation? Call us on 09 827 1177, or chuck us an email at [email protected]
BoxMakers helmed this beautifully unique kitchen renovation project in Greenlane. Combining the best of both traditional and modern design cues, this highly imaginative transitional-style kitchen touts a prominent raised-panel motif alongside a minimalist benchtop arrangement for a clean yet eminently personal space.
The original kitchen featured a mid-century modern design with a U-shaped layout. Removing the dividing peninsula was a core component of the renovation, as it became more of a barrier than a functional island. Elsewhere, the rest of the kitchen featured aging appliances and cabinetry.
Central to the theme of the new kitchen was traditionalism, in line with the design language of the house as a whole. Staying true to the original cabinet faces, we chose new panels that maintained the raised profiles. Dezignatek’s Marseilles line was selected, in Alabaster Satin – a warm white that can take on different tones depending on the light. This extended to all of the cabinetry from the drawers to the overhead units, and even the tall pantry cabinets.
Removing the dividing peninsula made the kitchen much more freeing. This, combined with the upheaval of the original octagonal shape, provided the kitchen with significantly more room than before – in terms of both movement and storage. Stefano Orlati’s 1186 series handles were chosen, finished in Antique Tin. This provided an ornate, yet practical appearance. Completing that is the crown moulding above the cabinetry, which adds traditional ornamental detail.
On the outside, it looks like a quaint transitional-style kitchen but inside, it has been rigorously fitted with the latest in cabinet solutions, soft-close drawers, runner sets, hinges, and LEDs. The cabinets feature Häfele’s drawer systems and Hideaway bins. Also supplied by Häfele are Kesseböhmer’s Dispensa Pantry, LeMans II corner unit, and 2x Base Cabinet Pull Out sets.
The benchtop is engineered stone – Uniquartz’s Light Vein, a pale 30mm cut featuring delicate brown lines. This design extends to the splashback for a cohesive and finely detailed kitchen. Both the cooktop and sink feature minimalist, low-profile designs. Behind, the wooden blinds give the room an organic touch as it combines seamlessly with the greenery outside – a detail that was replicated from the previous kitchen.
This transitional kitchen is completed with a fascinating blend of traditional aesthetics with modern features. Its appearance is timeless, yet functionally advanced. The old kitchen’s essence is not lost, but renewed; steeped in history and brimming with stories to tell.
Starting a kitchen, laundry, or cabinetry project often feels like a big step. Many homeowners worry they need drawings, firm budgets, or final decisions before reaching out. In reality, your first enquiry is simply the beginning of a conversation. It allows us to understand your situation, explain what is possible, and help you move forward with clarity.
The process is designed to be collaborative, flexible, and low pressure. Whether you already have plans or are only exploring ideas, we guide you step by step so you can make confident decisions.
1. Project type and feasibility
After your first enquiry, we begin by understanding the basics of your project. We look at the type of work you are considering, the scale, your preferred timeline, and the location. This initial review helps us confirm feasibility and identify any early considerations that may affect design, cost, or scheduling.
2. Consultation & Quotation
If you already have drawings, we review them together. If you don’t, that is completely fine. Many homeowners contact us before plans exist. We will either invite you in for a discussion or arrange a call to learn more about your goals — how you want the space to feel, materials you like, practical needs, and any budget expectations. From there, we can organise a free site visit where needed and provide an initial quote to help you understand the investment range.
3. Quote Review & Approval
Once you receive a quote, you have space to consider your options. Comparing suppliers, asking questions, and adjusting scope is a normal part of the process. We encourage homeowners to seek clarity rather than rush decisions. If changes are required to align with your budget, we work through alternatives together — whether that means adjusting materials, storage solutions, or layout details.
4 Final measurement and Production
When you decide to proceed, a deposit allows us to move into the technical stage. We carry out a final site measure to ensure every dimension is accurate. Using those measurements, we prepare detailed drawings for your approval before production begins. This stage is where design intent becomes precise, ensuring cabinetry fits your space properly and performs as expected.
Material options and design refinements remain open throughout the process. Decisions are not locked in too early, and discussions continue from the first consultation through to final drawing sign-off. This approach allows the project to evolve while keeping expectations clear.
The most important thing to understand is that contacting us does not commit you to anything. It simply gives you access to professional guidance early, when decisions are easier and less costly to adjust. Cabinetry is a long-term investment, and thoughtful planning is what protects both the outcome and your budget. Our role is to work alongside you so the finished space reflects how you live, not just how it looks on day one.
👉 Looking for new cabinetry or thinking about a kitchen renovation? Call us on 09 827 1177, or chuck us an email at [email protected]
Designing a new kitchen is exciting. It is also a significant investment, and the decisions you make will affect how you live every day. Each year, we meet homeowners who wish they had approached certain cabinetry and layout choices differently. Most regrets are not dramatic design failures. They are small, practical oversights that slowly become daily frustrations.
Here are the most common cabinetry regrets we see and how to avoid them:
Functional and Layout Mistakes
1. Insufficient storage
One of the biggest regrets is insufficient storage, particularly the lack of deep drawers in base cabinetry. Traditional cupboards with shelves may seem cost-effective, but they make it difficult to access pots, pans, and heavier items. Deep drawers provide better visibility, easier access, and more efficient use of space.
2. Poorly design corner storage
Corner cabinets are another frequent issue. Corners often become dead space or are fitted with outdated, inefficient mechanisms that do not fully utilise the area. Thoughtful corner solutions like pull-our storage systems or lazy Susan, can dramatically improve storage capacity and accessibility.
3. Low quality materials
Low-quality materials and hardware are a regret that tends to surface a few years after installation. Particleboard that swells, thin hardware that loosens, and weak drawer runners that fail under weight all lead to premature repairs or replacement.
4. Electrical needs
Overlooking electrical needs is another regret that only becomes obvious once you start living in the space. Modern kitchens require ample power for appliances and everyday devices. Outlets should be carefully planned along benchtops, within islands, and even inside pantries. It is always better to allow for more power access than you think you need.
5. Not enough clearance space
Ignoring clearance space can make even a beautiful kitchen feel cramped. Adequate room must be allowed for doors and drawers to open fully and for multiple people to move comfortably around the space.
Design and Maintenance Regrets
6. High-maintenance colours and finishes
Cabinet colour and finish choices often lead to long-term dissatisfaction. Very dark cabinetry can show dust, fingerprints, and water marks. As a result, they typically require constant maintenance to look clean. High-gloss finishes can also create ongoing maintenance frustration, especially when paired with poor lighting. Surfaces that constantly show fingerprints and smudges quickly become tiresome to maintain.
On the other hand, highly trendy colours can date quickly. Many homeowners later wish they had chosen a more timeless base and introduced personality through elements that are easier to update.
7. Too much for splashback
Busy splashbacks are another frequent regret. Highly patterned or brightly coloured tiles may initially feel expressive, but they can overwhelm the space and compete with the cabinetry. A more restrained splashback, such as a timeless stone slab or subtle tile, often allows the cabinetry and architectural details to stand out while still adding depth and texture.
8. Monotone designs
A “flat” or overly monochromatic design is the opposite problem. When the splashback, benchtops, and cabinetry all match too closely, the result can feel dull and uninspired. Layering materials and finishes thoughtfully adds visual interest without overwhelming the space.
9. Treating lighting as an afterthought
Lighting is often underestimated. A kitchen needs a combination of ambient, task, and accent lighting to function properly. Without under-cabinet lighting, work surfaces can feel dim and impractical. Pendant lighting over islands should provide both functional illumination and considered design impact.
Non-Essential Gadgets
10. Unnecessary gadgets
Another regret we see is investing in luxury gadgets that look impressive but go largely unused. Features such as warming drawers, built-in coffee stations, or specialty taps can sound appealing in theory. In practice, they often become expensive additions that do not meaningfully improve everyday life. Instead, the most valued investments tend to be the practical workhorses: quality cooking appliances, reliable refrigeration, and well-designed storage. These are the elements that genuinely change how a kitchen performs.
The Common Thread
Most cabinetry regrets come down to one thing: prioritising appearance or trends over daily function. A kitchen should first and foremost support how you live. When storage, layout, materials, lighting, and proportion are carefully considered, the design naturally feels better and lasts longer.
Thoughtful planning at the cabinetry stage is what protects your investment. When the fundamentals are right, the kitchen not only looks impressive on completion day, but continues to perform beautifully for years to come.
Designed by: Mona Simathamchai
👉 Looking for new cabinetry or thinking about a kitchen renovation? Call us on 09 827 1177, or chuck us an email at [email protected]
Planning a new kitchen or renovating an existing one is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make in your home. It’s not just about choosing finishes or appliances — it’s about how the space works every single day.
At BoxMakers, we often meet clients who come to us after feeling overwhelmed by options or worried about making an expensive mistake. The good news? Most kitchen issues we see aren’t caused by bad taste — they’re caused by layout decisions made too late, or without enough practical guidance.
Below are the most common kitchen layout mistakes we see in Auckland homes, and more importantly, how they’re avoided with thoughtful design.
1. Ignoring How You Actually Move in the Kitchen
One of the most well-known principles in kitchen design is the work triangle — the relationship between the fridge, sink, and cooktop. When these are placed too far apart, blocked by islands, or interrupted by walkways, everyday tasks become inefficient and tiring.
In real homes, especially Auckland villas and townhouses, the goal isn’t a textbook triangle — it’s clear, unobstructed movement. We aim for practical spacing (roughly 1.2–2.7 metres between points) while ensuring other people can move through the kitchen without disrupting cooking.
This is where experience matters. A layout that looks good on paper can feel frustrating in real life if traffic flow isn’t considered early.
2. Treating Lighting as an Afterthought
Relying on a single ceiling light is one of the fastest ways to make a new kitchen feel underwhelming. Overhead lighting alone creates shadows exactly where you don’t want them — on benchtops, cooktops, and prep areas.
A well-designed kitchen layers lighting:
General lighting for the room
Task lighting for work surfaces (like under-cabinet LEDs)
Feature or pendant lighting for islands and dining areas
In Auckland homes, where natural light can vary significantly by season and orientation, lighting planning is not a luxury — it’s essential for comfort and usability.
3. Underestimating Space Around Appliances
Cramped kitchens aren’t always small kitchens — they’re often poorly planned kitchens. Common issues include fridge or dishwasher doors blocking walkways, ovens clashing with drawers, or insufficient landing space beside appliances.
We plan kitchens so that:
Appliance doors can open fully
Two people can work without colliding
Benchtop space supports how you cook, not just how the kitchen looks
These details are difficult to fix once cabinetry is installed, which is why layout decisions should happen before materials are locked in.
4. Not Planning Enough Storage (Then Living with the Consequences)
One of the biggest regrets homeowners share is not allowing enough storage. When storage is underestimated, benchtops become cluttered, and the kitchen quickly feels chaotic.
Smart storage isn’t about adding more cupboards — it’s about designing the right storage:
Drawers instead of shelves where possible
Dedicated spaces for bins, small appliances, and pantry items
Storage that matches your cooking habits
This is especially important in Auckland homes where open-plan living means kitchen clutter is always visible.
5. Poor Appliance Placement
Oversized or poorly positioned appliances can disrupt both workflow and aesthetics. Common issues include fridges that protrude into walkways or microwaves and wall ovens interfering with cabinetry use.
Good appliance planning balances:
Size and scale of the kitchen
Ergonomics and accessibility
Visual integration with cabinetry
We often help clients downsize or reposition appliances to improve flow — without sacrificing performance.
6. Forgetting Ventilation and Services
Ventilation is often overlooked, especially in renovations. Gas cooktops and high-output induction units require proper extraction to perform safely and effectively.
Likewise, insufficient power points, poorly placed switches, or no allowance for future appliances can limit how your kitchen functions over time. These are small decisions that have long-term impact — and they’re far cheaper to plan early than retrofit later.
7. Forcing an Island Where It Doesn’t Belong
Kitchen islands are popular — but they’re not always appropriate. In tighter Auckland homes, squeezing in an island can create traffic bottlenecks and reduce usable space.
Sometimes a peninsula, breakfast bar, or reconfigured bench provides better results. The right solution depends on how many people use the kitchen, how it connects to adjacent spaces, and how circulation works through the home.
8. Assuming You Need a Completely New Layout
One of the biggest misconceptions is that a successful renovation requires starting from scratch. In reality, many existing kitchen layouts were designed around practical constraints like doors, windows, and plumbing locations.
We never automatically dismiss an existing layout. Often, small changes — opening a wall, adjusting cabinetry, or adding an island — deliver major improvements without the cost of relocating services. This approach can save tens of thousands and reduce renovation risk.
9. Ignoring Vertical Wall Space
In compact kitchens, wall space is valuable storage real estate. Stopping cabinetry short of the ceiling often wastes space and creates dust-catching gaps.
Taking cupboards to the ceiling increases storage and creates a more finished look. If full-height cabinetry feels too heavy, mixing closed storage with open shelving can balance practicality and aesthetics.
10. Making Decisions Too Late
The most expensive kitchen mistakes happen when layout decisions are made after design, quoting, or construction has already started. At that stage, changes often mean delays, rework, and added cost.
Early design clarity leads to:
Better budgets
Fewer compromises
A kitchen that works long-term, not just at handover
FAQs: Kitchen Layout Mistakes
1. Do I really need professional help for kitchen layout planning?
If you want the kitchen to work well long-term, yes. Layout mistakes are hard to see early and expensive to fix later. Professional planning helps avoid regret and ensures your investment is protected.
2. Is it cheaper to keep my existing kitchen layout?
Often, yes. Retaining plumbing and electrical locations can significantly reduce costs. The key is knowing when a layout works — and when it doesn’t. That judgement comes from experience.
3. When is the best time to get advice on my kitchen design?
Before you finalise layouts, cabinetry, or appliance selections. Early conversations save money, reduce stress, and lead to better outcomes.
Why Talking Early Matters
A kitchen renovation is a major financial decision — and it should feel considered, not rushed. If you’re unsure about your layout, storage, or whether your ideas will actually work in your space, that uncertainty is a sign to talk early, not later.
At BoxMakers, our role isn’t to push designs — it’s to help you make confident, informed decisions that suit your home and how you live.
A well-designed kitchen isn’t just beautiful. It works — quietly, efficiently, and every day.
While having a beautiful, attractive, and aesthetically refined kitchen is of course important, looks can often overshadow performance, which is becoming increasingly relevant in today’s bustling modern household. Often playing second fiddle to outward appearances, the practicality of a kitchen entirely affects its usability. If appliances are the beating heart of a kitchen, then ergonomics are the circulatory system. Find out the science behind fine-tuning a kitchen, and why you should apply it.
Layout: Within a kitchen, you’ll often find yourself bouncing between the three main working areas: the sink, cooktop, and fridge. This trifecta of pivotal roles forms the foundation of kitchen design and make up the aptly named “kitchen work triangle”. Make sure these spaces are 1.2 to 2.4 metres apart, with 4 to 8 metres as the total perimeter, without any other work paths infringing on its space.
This triangle cuts down transition time drastically, while also ensuring that the space is free from any obstructions. As for entry, make sure you don’t have to walk the length of the kitchen just to enter it. This can be a problem with G-shaped kitchens if the entry isn’t positioned conveniently.
Height: In the age of increasing heights and diversifying demographics, it can be rare to feel a perfect fit with a new kitchen. Since most benchtops aren’t adjustable like desks, taking some time to get it right can save you from a lot of backache. The typical working benchtop height is between 85 to 95 cm. See what’s suitable for your height below:
150cm – 160cm = an 84cm high benchtop
160cm – 170cm = an 88cm high benchtop
170cm – 180cm = a 92cm high benchtop
180cm – 190cm = a 96cm high benchtop
A good rule of thumb is to put your palms flat on your benchtop and see if your elbows are resting at a 45-degree angle with your forearms. If so, then that height is a good fit. For placing shelves, keep them around 45-60 cm above the benchtop, or 65 cm above the cooktop, with essential shelves no more than 1.4 m off the floor. Proper shelving balances working space, accessibility, and cooktop clearance.
Drawer Opening: It can be finicky having multiple drawers open, especially when going back and forth, bumping around the kitchen. At the same time, pushing them shut brings noise and possible damage. Consider self-close drawer slides to make closing worry-free, or soft-close systems, which dampen sound and minimise impact – all with just a gentle push.
For lift-up cabinets, look for those with a stay-open mechanism so that you can retrieve goods with both hands. You can use the drawer size to sort goods: shallow drawers for cutlery, medium drawers for bowls, and deep drawers for pots and containers.
Convenience Mapping: Unless you want to treat cooking like a marathon, aim at minimising the amount of movement needed to retrieve any and all goods. This includes your whiteware, appliances, and cooking tools. For example, keep your pans right by your cooktop at waist or shoulder height, keep your tableware cabinets next to your dishwasher, and avoid tucking away your favourites in bottom cabinet corners – your back will thank you for it.
Having smart storage solutions can be a lifesaver in this instance: base cabinet pull-outs can provide easy access to pantry goods, while pull-out bins make short work of disposal with none of the smell. Consider putting your cabinet corner to work with a carousel unit for further space efficiency.
Safety – When working around all sorts of sharp objects and hot surfaces, getting hurt is the last thing anyone wants. In addition to having drawers & doors closed, sound footing is also important. Check just how “non-slip” your flooring actually is, and how it works with footwear and socks.
For nighttime working, consider installing task lighting such as under-cabinet LEDs for a focused work area. Toe kick illumination can be especially useful when left on after lights-off, providing you and your family with a guide and saving many a pinkie toe from those pesky stubs.
Focusing on form over function is understandably popular, but it’s best to get a measure of your kitchen’s usability. While the effects of aesthetics are apparent immediately and fully, the effects of layout, height, and operability are often not discovered until later. Building your dream kitchen is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for many, and getting it right is just as important as ever. Make sure you get the ergonomics you want and find the balance that’s just right for you.
With very particular requirements set for this suite of four kitchen upgrades, BoxMakers worked hard to not only realise a highly professional result, but to do so discreetly, and with minimal disruption to a live environment.
Tempered Durability
Being part of Westbridge Residential School, our work had to partially take place during active hours, and the kitchens themselves had to be purpose-built to endure heavy use. To achieve this, BoxMakers employed careful area cordoning, signage, and top-level communication so as to not disrupt the ebb and flow of the school. Our measures and precautions allowed the daily school ongoings to proceed as per usual.
The kitchens themselves were designed around a contrasting pair of sporty blacks and mellowing whites. This visual use of clair-obscur invokes a dynamic display of depth, thanks to Meltaca’s Bullet Pearl finish. Against the white splashback and pale walls, these black & white kitchens are designed for professionalism and elegance.
As far as practicality goes, each kitchen offers dozens of storage options, between drawers, overheads, and under-bench options – ensuring that every piece gets its place.
Thanks to the staff and coordination processes, we had a phenomenal experience working with the school. Our non-invasive methodology meant that we were able to finish these lovely kitchens all while the students went about their day. With these new upgrades, we can’t wait to see what they achieve!
Designed by: Mona Simathamchai
Looking for new cabinetry or thinking about a kitchen renovation? Call us on 09 827 1177, or chuck us an email at [email protected]
