JACK IN THE BOX

Balmain, nsw

This vibrant family of four came to us wanting to entertain with ease - to be part of the conversation while prepping the next course, not stuck alone behind the cooktop. Their terrace had good bones but the ground floor felt disconnected - some areas were crowded, others oddly wasted - and it was lacking in personality. What they didn’t expect was how much we could change how they entertain, live and connect with a few, deft design interventions.

What looks like a single run of cabinetry is actually four spaces in one, linking the kitchen, dining and living areas with ingenious, purpose-built function:

A long, low joinery unit provides the foundation for these living spaces while housing copious storage
The entertainment unit, with ample display for treasured travel mementos, rises above the base unit
Banquette seating provides an inviting setting for both casual and formal dining
Behind timber bi-fold doors is a petite bar ready for the perfect cocktail or a favourite Shiraz
Tucked under the stairs, and hidden behind a stunning wall mural, is a generous pantry
An oval extension to the island provides the perfect spot for chatting to the chef or grabbing a quick breakfast

The result is a home that finally works for the way this family lives - warm, sociable and unmistakably theirs - road-tested and fully approved at their first dinner party!