Open minded

When a Sydney family wanted to transform an outdated kitchen and laundry into a multipurpose space, they called in an interior designer.

The end result is a functional, light-filled room with a fresh, timeless look that suits the older style of their home.

Before
Dark and uninviting, the kitchen of this 1920s bungalow had dated cabinetry and little work space. The laundry was positioned in an alcove behind wooden bi-folds, and was a step down from the kitchen and family room. Both areas lacked unity and storage. As it was a large renovation, owner Ann Armstrong employed Michelle Burton of Designing Women to help her visually open up the space, introduce more light and incorporate built-in storage.

Brighten up
To illuminate the space, Michelle used a combination of halogen ceiling lights, a pendant light above the sink and recessed lights under cabinets to set the mood.

Space saver
Using identical colours and materials for the laundry and kitchen links the two spaces. With Michelle‘s help, Ann chose classic Shaker-style doors and drawers with a hand-painted cream finish, and a biscuit-coloured CaesarStone benchtop. ”I opted for neutral shades instead of stark white to create a warm, welcoming space,” Ann explains. 

Situated next to the doors that lead out to the garden, the laundry doubles as a bar area and features a built-in wine rack and a small bar fridge concealed in a cupboard. ”When we entertain we fill the sink with ice, and we also use it to clean up after gardening. It‘s not the biggest laundry, but the good use of space means it has everything we need.”

Words & styling: Helen Adams. Photography: Andrew Lehmann.