Christchurch Designer Larissa Breukelaar Wins Best Kitchen Award

Christchurch designer Larissa Breukelaar has been awarded the title of best kitchen designer in New Zealand for her innovative work on her own home. The announcement, made during the National Kitchen and Bathroom Association (NKBA) People’s Choice Awards, highlighted Breukelaar’s design, named Whispering Curves, which emphasizes functionality and aesthetic appeal tailored for a growing family.

Breukelaar, who operates under Modern Age Kitchen & Joinery, sought to create a kitchen that required lower maintenance while providing a bright and inviting atmosphere. The design features a separate clean-up zone and a dedicated coffee and bar area, reflecting the practical needs of her family. A significant aspect of the kitchen’s layout is its connection to a large vegetable garden just outside, enhancing both the design and the overall cooking experience.

The kitchen’s centerpiece is an island that incorporates soft curves, allowing for seating around its perimeter. The combination of white cabinetry with charred walnut elements creates an inviting contrast, while a thin benchtop and minimalistic handles contribute to a sleek and modern look.

Auckland Designer Captures Best Bathroom Award

In addition to Breukelaar’s recognition, Melanie Sa’u of Melanie Sa’u Design Studio in Auckland won the award for best bathroom for her project titled Artful Retreat. This master ensuite design was inspired by the luxurious aesthetics of high-end hotels and boutiques, which the homeowners often experienced during their travels.

Sa’u’s design features rich dark timber tones and aged metal finishes, complemented by custom tile work that enhances the overall ambiance. A dark-toned vanity, made from Melteca Boarders Oak, serves as a focal point in the room. The contrast between the softness of the woodgrain and the solid surface vanity top, characterized by fluid veining and a rounded basin, creates a striking visual effect. The addition of warm Tuscan bronze tapware and hardware completes the sophisticated look.

According to Rachael Kwok, the NKBA executive officer, this year’s People’s Choice Awards showcased a clear trend towards “bright and light spaces with luxurious finishes,” reflecting the preferences of the discerning public in New Zealand. The People’s Choice Awards follow the annual NKBA Excellence in Design awards, which took place in September 2023.

Both Breukelaar and Sa’u’s designs not only highlight individual creativity but also set a benchmark in the New Zealand home design industry, showcasing how functionality and aesthetics can seamlessly blend to create stunning living spaces.