Modern heritage

A meticulously renovated kitchen in Millers Point balances heritage with modern function.

Preserving the heritage of the kitchen was a priority for lead architect and interior designer Angelique Perak when she was charged with the renovation of this beautiful, old home.

"The kitchen is the heart of the home; it's a nourishing space physically and mentally. I knew I had to protect the kitchen," says Angelique of Studio Duo.

A modern heritage kitchen in white and blue

Resene Quarter Ecru White graces the interior walls, while Resene Artemis anchors the kitchen’s central island. The Resene Half Ash perimeter cabinetry reflects the natural light.

As the building is protected, the renovation had to follow complex conservation requirements, which included using approved colours. Angelique turned to Resene. “The range is so lovely. Resene offers truly pigmented colours. I had flakes of the original paint that we tried to match and elevate – I wanted a nod to history with a contemporary twist.”

In the kitchen Resene Quarter Ecru White was chosen for the interior walls, allowing the velvet texture of the lath and plaster to take centre stage. Resene Artemis – used as an anchoring colour – gives the kitchen’s central island a sense of depth and history.

“The Resene Half Ash perimeter cabinetry gives a more contemporary backdrop to extend the space and reflect the natural light,” says Angelique.

The stunning classic kitchen has hidden secrets in the smallest of spaces. The 450mmwide dishwasher in the kitchen island has a specialised plumbing system, hydronic underfloor heating keeps feet warm, and the staircase hides a pantry and home automation controls.

The 4m x 3.2m kitchen had its unique challenges. A modern oven was custombuilt to fit a tight 800mm space and where the window prevented adding a rangehood, Angelique chose a down-draft extraction system in the benchtop that also acts as a splashback.

The disguises didn’t end there. “A family of six needs a large fridge, but it’s not very ‘on theme’. So the fridge is disguised as an armoire, with cupboards on either side – very The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe.”

The owners love their old kitchen with the new touches.

Top tip: If you’re painting cabinetry, use Resene Lustacryl semi-gloss or Resene Enamacryl gloss for a hardwearing, durable finish. Or ask your kitchen supplier to use Environmental Choice approved Resene AquaLAQ, a fast-drying lacquer system for cabinetry, so you get the authentic Resene colour and quality finish.

In Angelique's words

Describe your cooking style

Angelique: A mix of French and New Zealand home cooking, I love choosing seasonal vegetables. I love to bake at the weekends. Desserts are my thing.

What is your favourite part of this kitchen?

Angelique: The height of this space works so well with the dappled light coming in from the courtyard. The original cast iron cooker sits in pride of place, and transports you through nostalgia. The joinery with brass detailing with the grilles and handles all add to the layering.

Which recipe from this issue of Dish would you most like to cook and why?

Angelique: Ricotta and Orange Drizzle Cake with Amaretti. The combination of ricotta and citrus is always a hit with me; guaranteed a moist cake and the smell of orange drizzle takes me back to my grandmother’s kitchen. I see this pairing perfectly with this space and jug of homemade iced tea.