Christchurch Designer Wins Best Kitchen Award at NKBA 2023

Christchurch kitchen designer Larissa Breukelaar has achieved recognition as the best kitchen designer in New Zealand. Her creation, named Whispering Curves, was awarded the top honor in the National Kitchen and Bathroom Association (NKBA) People’s Choice Awards, announced on September 29, 2023. Breukelaar designed the kitchen for her own family home, aiming for a low-maintenance space suited to her growing family’s needs.

The design features an inviting and bright atmosphere, with a focus on creating a calming environment. Breukelaar specified the inclusion of a separate clean-up zone and a designated coffee and bar area. A significant aspect of her design is the connection to a large vegetable garden just outside the kitchen. The kitchen island, characterized by its curvy shape, allows for seating around its entire perimeter. The combination of white cabinetry with warm charred walnut accents, a sleek benchtop, and minimal hardware contributes to the overall aesthetic.

Recognition of Exceptional Bathroom Design

Alongside Breukelaar’s achievement, Melanie Sa’u from Melanie Sa’u Design Studio in Auckland received the award for the best bathroom design for her project titled Artful Retreat. The master ensuite was inspired by high-end hotels and boutique accommodations that the homeowners frequently visited during their travels. The goal was to create a “hotel at home” experience.

Sa’u’s design incorporates dark timber tones, aged metal finishes, and custom tile work to evoke luxury. A dark-toned vanity anchors the space, complemented by a solid surface vanity top featuring fluid veining and a rounded basin. The warm Tuscan bronze tapware and hardware enhance the elegant look of the ensuite.

Rachael Kwok, the executive officer of NKBA, noted that this year’s People’s Choice Awards reflected a trend toward “bright and light spaces with luxurious finishes” among discerning New Zealand homeowners. The People’s Choice Awards follow the annual NKBA Excellence in Design awards, further highlighting the significant talent within New Zealand’s design community.

Both Breukelaar and Sa’u exemplify innovative design that resonates with contemporary homeowners, showcasing a blend of functionality and aesthetic appeal. Their achievements underscore the growing recognition of quality design in the New Zealand market, elevating the standards for kitchen and bathroom spaces across the country.