Foxton-based certified kitchen designer Nicola Ross shares trends, new materials and her top tips for the hub of your home, as well as what inspires her about her region.
From little tucked-away boxes, kitchens have evolved to become the centre of contemporary living. Where to next?
There’s a real change in the work we see from architects. Homes create refuge and space to be together yet apart, and technology that would have been considered out of reach is becoming more common. The ability to close off areas that tend to be messy is more prevalent. Interior joinery as part of the architectural fabric brings its own features, as opposed to a repetitive show-home look. Fit-outs that include bar and beverage areas (these are popular as we entertain more at home), workspaces and aspirational wardrobes and bathrooms are commonplace.
A subtle palette allows textures, including vertical panels, to shine.
What’s a common mistake when seeking design advice?
Deciding what you want before finding out what you need, like and how it can be achieved. Curating images of what you like is a helpful starting point, but each house is different and being too literal with inspiration can make spaces feel like a mishmash of others’ ideas. A good project is one in which a designer takes your ideas and crafts a space that reflects your style and needs. Choosing a qualified designer who belongs to a professional body like the National Kitchen and Bathroom Association gives peace of mind that they know what they’re talking about, and are up to date with what makes spaces work.
What enduring materials are worth investing in?
Interior hardware. Also, benchtops take a hammering and need to be good quality.
A relaxed kitchen, starring timber.
Are there any developments in materials or products that will provide new choices?
It’s a really exciting time with products that make life easier. These include Pure Matte and Fenix for cabinetry exteriors that don’t show fingerprints and can be repaired, through to products like Dekton for benchtops that can handle heat direct from the stovetop and oven, and can be used for wall cladding and flooring. Hafele consistently brings quality products to the market, from cabinetry pull-outs to lighting and electronic integration. Hettich has a host of products that allow designers to customise cabinetry interiors with drawer sides in various materials. Concelo recently won an international award for its bin design. Architectural linings for feature walls and panelling are coming through, with Laminex recently launching Surround pre-made sheets, which are easy to install.
How do you apply sustainability principles to your work?
Aesthetics are important, but function is crucial to how a space works. I believe well-designed spaces can change our lives in a positive way. This contributes to sustainability– enabling us to stay in our homes, without having to change things or move on to another one. It also gives us independence in our homes for longer.
What hack do you suggest for someone with a mid-range budget?
Focus on creating one feature that you love and simplify the rest. Trying to achieve too much with too little leaves everything looking less.
The designer also works on sophisticated bathrooms.
What inspires you about your region?
We’re lucky to live in a rural setting a five-minute drive from work. My husband and I are keen gardeners – the connection to nature is rewarding and restorative. Coming from a suburban home to having big-sky sunsets and clear night skies is probably my favourite part. Foxton has a real sense of community and we love that. We have mountains and the beach a short drive away, and we’re close enough to Wellington. We bought a commercial building in Foxton and restored it. This is our studio and it has made us feel like part of our town, as well as being a base for our clients to work through their projects in a relaxed environment.
nicolarossdesign.co.nz
