Snell's Beach Home

Perched above Snells Beach, this kitchen was designed as a functional and emotional anchor for a blended Swiss–Kiwi family of seven. With parents often travelling for work, the kitchen became more than a place to cook; it’s where time together is cherished, stories are shared, and traditions are passed on. Human-centred design shaped a series of intuitive “stations” that support collaborative cooking, while bilingual labelling in English and Swiss-German celebrates cultural heritage and encourages food literacy among the children.

Sustainability guided every decision, from open dry-goods storage and compost shoots to cabinetry built from FSC-certified plywood and oak veneer that connects the interior to the surrounding Mahurangi landscape.

The kitchen seamlessly balances tradition with innovation. Vintage cookware sits alongside integrated smart appliances, while stainless steel surfaces recall classic Kiwi kitchens yet deliver commercial durability against the softness of artisan tilework. A mobile prep/play station extends into the dining area, reinforcing the kitchen’s role as a space of connection. The result is a personalised, flexible hub that supports slow living in a fast-paced world, an environment where food, stories, and family come together. He Kai, He Kōrero, He Whānau – Shared Food, Shared Stories, Shared Family.

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Featured as a finalist in the New Zealand Best Design Awards. See the feature on the best awards website here.