The earthy, desert hues that bathe this space were inspired by the Californian desert and coastline, with a nod to the seventies. The most challenging element of this renovation was working with the previous owners’ design choices - namely the diamanté splash backs, patent grey cabinets and the statement tiled floor.

The feature of the exposed, distressed splash back was an accidental result of the builder removing the previous diamanté tiles. The finish was sealed and paint washed to the desired palette. A celebration of simplicity and the unexpected elements of this decorating process, and how this can sometimes shape the design brief for the better. The damage that was unsalvageable in the utility area was patched with recycled wooden boards, sourced at a local lumber yard.

The black kitchen cabinets were vinyl wrapped, while the now white utility area was a DIY paint job, as were the previously white PVC windows and french doors. The only new items in either of the spaces were the cabinet handles, purchased to tie in with the colour theme.

The beautiful custom built bench seat was designed to create much needed seating and storage, which I hand panelled and upholstered myself. All other furniture and decor items were preowned, upcycled or sourced at local vintage stores.

The curtains were handmade using second hand dust sheets, and the cushions were fashioned using fabric from a local charity shop.