The client wanted to keep the soul of the 1903 villa, but also enjoy modern conveniences and a clean design aesthetic. Walls were shifted to remove confusion in the layout with five separate spaces deconstructed and reformed to house the contemporary design and bold colour palette. This central space became an open-plan kitchen-living-dining area that became the true heart of the home for this busy family.

The defining feature of the palette is the dramatic 'Neon Orange' kitchen island made from Laminex Solid Surface. Laminex Solid Surface's thermoformable properties allowed the end of the island to be curved to create a breakfast bar, and recessed shelving was built into the island to house cookbooks and other kitchen trinkets. The bright orange colour matched perfectly with paint colour Hot Embers by Dulux which was used to paint the island's cabinetry. Laminex Solid Surface has antimicrobial properties and is easy to clean, making it the perfect choice for a family that's always on the go.

In contrast to the bold orange, more subtle colours such as a soft pink, whites and blacks were used throughout the rest of the kitchen and living space. Interior cabinetry was created in Melteca Black and matched with LEGRABOX drawers from Blum in Terra Black. This created another point of interest and was finished with black negative detailing and contemporary handleware sourced from Sweden. Made in New Zealand, Melteca laminated panels are available in over 80 colours and six finishes. Scratch and stain resistant, Melteca surfaces are ideal for cabinetry doors and drawers as well as pantry doors and shelving. The overhead shelving in Laminex Solid Surface Chalk adds another clean space for kitchen treasures to be stored and displayed.

Decorative elements such as whimsical coloured seating, as well as artwork by Annie Smith Sandano and a dramatic, oversized neon sign add to the playful atmosphere of the space.