When designers are given free rein they can create interiors that are not only extraordinary, but award-winning on the world stage.

The owners of a large villa in Greenlane, Auckland gave such a design brief to Pukekohe designer Leonie Hamill of Cube Dentro – and the kitchen she created has caught the eye of judges in the prestigious Design Awards in London, winning the International Design Award last weekend.

Hamill says the only stipulation from the clients was “sophisticated with a clean layout”.

“Our clients respected a pared-back design approach, but also wanted each space to have its own distinct identity,” she says. “Otherwise it was a blank canvas to push creative boundaries and workmanship, while staying mindful of the wider aesthetics of a Victorian villa.”

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Hamill says it was clear the kitchen needed to be robust enough to take the knocks of a young child and beloved pooch. And functionality and a timeless aesthetic would be important for a family with a busy lifestyle.

To provide a sense of sophistication, balance and calm, Hamill and her team specified a limited colour palette of dark Melamine cabinetry, contrasted with crisp white granite and pops of brass for a hint of luxe.

The hero of the kitchen is undoubtedly the long island. The white Statuario Venato benchtop splices through the middle, creating a striking chequerboard effect against the rear wall cabinetry and splashback.

The island incorporates a cantilevered dining table in Cosentino Dekton Eter Matt, supported by custom-designed brass legs.

“Much thought went into the design of this table and the result is a clever hint of vintage, influenced by the villa era,” Hamill says. “The departure from a traditional island with bar stools was a thrill to our clients who adore sitting around the table. It feels more inclusive and social to face guests, and this has become a heavily used feature of the space.”

The built-in rangehood is another talking point, with its chunky brass encasement around the bottom panel. “Repetition of the brass throughout the spaces keeps the design story cohesive,” the designer says.

There is more design complexity and fine craftsmanship evident in the wine cellar (off to one side of the kitchen), which has unique honeycomb shelving and warm strip lighting.

“Open shelving in the bar area is a hit with our clients, allowing them to display carefully curated glassware and treasures. Again, this is an opportunity to dress the space with a touch of glamour and items from a bygone era to keep with the villa theme.”

Finger tiles in the scullery also hint at the wider character of the villa. The Statuario Venato stone benchtop has been repeated in this room for uniformity, along with further brass accents in the tapware.

Fisher & Paykel appliances include two built-in ovens, a combi steam oven, 900mm induction cooktop, and two integrated dishwashers. The refrigeration is by Liebherr and the power pack rangehood by Falmec.