b'luxury built through texture and sheenDesigner Kate Gardham of Sticks + Stones suggests an alternative scheme:In this luxe design, Ive transformed the kitchen island into a sculptural statement piece with curved reeded panelling painted in Resene Quarter Merino and rounded brass legs which gives old villa-style a modern twist. The Shaker-style cabinetry is painted in Resene Rivergum, using Resene AquaLAQ, crucial to get a true Resene colour with a durable finish that withstands bumps and knocks. A combination steam oven is hidden behind the pocket cabinets for a seamless look. The ceiling painted in Resene Gold adds a touch of glam and this is carried through with brass tapware and veined marble, which gives the benchtop a striking look. When the living space is open plan, I like to put sinks in the island as this means whoever is cooking is part of the social gatherings and conversations.email kate@sticksxstones.nz web www.sticksxstones.nzResene RivergumBroste Smoke Martini GlassA&C Homestorewww.achomestore.co.nz09 391 0090Resene Quarter TapaOssa Ribbed Oval Dining Table Resene Soren Liv Triple Merino www.sorenliv.com0800 001 690Quatrefoils, The Golden Trailby Max GimblettGow Langsford Gallery Astra Walker Spout inwww.gowlangsfordgallery.co.nz Urban Brass09 303 4290 The Kitchen HubResenewww.thekitchenhub.co.nzGold 0800 404 503illustrationResene Colorwood Malcolm White NaturalCombination Steam OvenFisher & Paykelwww.fisherpaykel.com0800 372 27359'