Hello design lovers! I’m excited to pull back the curtain and reveal this stunning kitchen transformation in an Auckland home. The house has a definite modern coastal style, but I also love the existing plantation-style influence we have leaned into - gabled ceilings, multi-paned interior doors, exterior columns and covered porches. For this reason I chose more of a natural palette, rather than a traditional white/blue/sand coastal palette.

The kitchen is accessed through the main living room and dining space. There’s a really nice moment looking through the door frame at the end of the island, so to maximise this I choose waterfall ends for the island, clad in Luna Grey marble. The colour of the marble set the entire palette for the kitchen, with it’s rich coffee and velvety latte tones. Framing the walls in the dining room adds interest to the view through to the kitchen, too.

Heart of the home - the island

The kitchen island is more than just a prep station; it’s the heartbeat of the house. With enough space to gather the whole family, it’s where pancakes are flipped, homework is tackled, and coffee chats linger. Its crisp, veined Luna Grey marble countertop is both practical and breathtaking. The subtle pattern reminds me of waves meeting the shoreline, perfectly fitting the coastal vibe but in greys rather than blues/whites for a modern take.

Above, three large globe pendant lights steal the spotlight. With industrial brass details, these fixtures bring an edge to the breezy coastal aesthetic. They’re bold but refined and I like how the globe shape adds a sculptural touch to the otherwise straight lines.

Symmetry and style - the back wall

At the back of the kitchen, symmetry reigns supreme. Tall cabinetry units flank a central hob and splashback setup, creating a balanced and sophisticated look. The Luna Grey marble continues here, making the space practical for cooking and photogenic! The cabinetry’s crown-cut oak—stained for depth—brings warmth to the otherwise light-filled room. This subtle texture and stain colour makes the colour palette a little more natural and earthy rather than classic white coastal. Bronze handles are the jewellery in this space.

One of my favourite additions is the cabinetry and bench seating nestled into the bay window at the side of the kitchen. Not only does it provide extra prep space and storage, but it’s also a lovely nook that’s perfect for savouring a morning coffee or chatting with someone while they’re using the main kitchen.

The finishing touches

The kitchen’s plantation style shines through its details. The ceiling is panelled for added texture, echoing the traditional charm of coastal homes. Floor-to-ceiling glass divider doors connect the adjacent dining and living spaces, while white shutters on the windows complete the look with a touch of crisp elegance. Roomy stools featuring rope details up the texture too.

Hidden gem - the scullery

Behind the scenes, the scullery is a powerhouse of practicality. With its own sink, generous bench space, endless storage, and a large French door fridge, it keeps the main kitchen organised especially when entertaining. Whether it’s hiding the aftermath of a dinner party or organizing your pantry staples, the scullery is the ultimate kitchen wingperson.

Inside Out

From the kitchen, your gaze naturally flows to the open-plan second living area, with its views of the landscaped outdoor oasis and sparkling pool. The connection between indoor and outdoor makes this kitchen the ultimate hub for entertaining and everyday life, and it also features a fireplace for cozy winter nights that was created from the same stone as the kitchen benchtops. We painted the gabled ceiling a few shades darker than the main wall colour to accentuate the panelling and stop the room becoming too glary on sunny days. The walls are painted in Resene Eighth Truffle, while the ceiling is Resene Truffle (full strength).

This kitchen and living area is more than just a place to cook; it’s a space that invites family and friends to gather and create memories. What do you think of this coastal kitchen reveal? Let me know your favourite feature in the comments below. And as always, happy designing!