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This Forever Kitchen’s Structural Steel Beams Serve a Second Purpose: Spice Storage
The article details the renovation of a 156-square-foot kitchen in a Titirangi home in New Zealand, designed by architect Raimana Jones of Atelier Jones. The clients desired an open-plan kitchen, which necessitated the removal of a wall of 1990s pea-green melamine cabinets. This change required the installation of I-beams for structural support. These I-beams were ingeniously designed to also serve as a frame for the peninsula, custom pivot lights by Tom Lopes, and a built-in spice rack. The renovation aimed to create a 'forever home' kitchen, incorporating several unique and functional elements.
Inspired by the efficiency of the Frankfurt kitchen designed by Margarete Schütte-Lihotzky, Jones and his business partner, Mathilde Polmard, prioritized utilitarian and integrated design solutions. One notable feature is the suspended spice station, where magnetic spice jars attach to a wood block above the peninsula. This design not only makes spices visible and accessible but also provides open shelving on the opposite side of the cubby. The height of this unit was carefully tested on-site to ensure it didn't obstruct views from the adjacent lounge area while remaining within easy reach, settling at 6 feet. A bar beneath the spice station offers a convenient spot for hanging dried herbs.
Another innovative addition is a built-in sliding cutting board, crafted from leftover butcher block wood. This cutting board can be moved along the stainless steel surface of the peninsula, providing flexibility for food preparation. When not in use, it slopes down on one side to sit seamlessly in its corner resting spot.
The kitchen also includes a dedicated area for pasta making. This space is located to the left of the sink and features a wood surface. An open cavity underneath the counter allows for securely clamping down a pasta maker. Adjacent to the basin, a hidden trash and compost bin system is integrated into the countertop with a removable lid, maintaining a clean and uncluttered appearance.
The cabinetry's design reflects the home's location in western Auckland, drawing inspiration from the local landscape. Some cupboards are made from oiled, recycled rimu, a native New Zealand wood known for its strength and rot resistance. This choice was also intended to match the home's original flooring. In contrast, powder-coated green steel drawers were incorporated as a tribute to Titirangi’s lush environment. All custom-designed drawers feature soft-closing mechanisms, contributing to a peaceful kitchen environment.
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