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Modern kitchen makeover for Edwardian home

Display Room

The kitchen is a highlight in this complete renovation, with storage, space and light on the owner's list of must-haves.

Architect Adam Woledge took on the challenge of creating a kitchen with maximum utility and light in this contemporary renovation of an Edwardian home in Melbourne.

Formerly run-down and far away, the kitchen is now tucked contentedly into a new corner. "The decision to move it happened organically," says owner Kevin. "Originally, it was against a north-facing brick wall. We decided to divide the previous lounge room, using half for the kitchen and half for an ensuite."

Now, the kitchen connects with living and dining areas and simultaneously serves as a separate, intimate space. "The kitchen is a beautiful vantage point to the living room, dining room and study," Adam explains. "We decided not to return the cupboards right around, as it would have looked too enclosing. Because the kitchen ceiling is lower than the living-room ceiling, there's an intimacy to the space that's enhanced by the position of the downlights."

With natural light a key component of the brief, but no direct windows available, a skylight was built over the kitchen prep area. The square island bench and breakfast bar is a unique focal point - all the better for its unobtrusive size and consideration of the space. "The owner can move freely around the kitchen," says Adam. "It's now the hub of the house - somewhere you'd logically congregate." Restraint from adding a sink in the island results in a refreshingly clear platform, and importantly, no lost corners. Drawers also avoid any wasted space.

An integrated dishwasher and glass splashback make use of clean, modern materials. Cupboards are two pak, with white and neutral tonings chosen for their timeless, easy-to-clean characteristics.

Good utility from an environmental perspective was important to Kevin. "It was a challenge to accommodate water tanks that would hold 9000 litres for dishwasher, toilet, laundry and garden use," he explains. "We were also aware that we could save up to a quarter of the fridge's electricity consumption by achieving good airflow behind the fridge, so a vent was installed in the floor and on top of the cupboards."

More storage was essential, so there are lots of drawers and a new storage area above the dining table. "The pullout pantry provides great access with no lost space," Adam says. "The microwave is under the island bench rather than on top - a better visual choice for maintaining a clean and minimalist feel."

The contemporary look is consistent with the rest of the home's interior, which also manages to retain its charm with details like the original doors, stained-glass features, cornices and skirtings. Interestingly, Adam's dual role as buyer advocate is quite clear in this modern transformation. Nothing is done to excess and the trap of over-capitalising has been successfully avoided.