Welcome to the heart of this newly renovated beach house on beautiful Waiheke Island! Perched above the ocean, this kitchen and dining space embodies effortless coastal luxury, blending natural textures and soft tones inspired by the surrounding landscape.

Walls and ceiling painted in Resene Merino.

I love to take inspiration from the surrounding landscape when designing homes, and I think it’s especially important in a holiday home where you want to be surrounded in nature. When I walked along this beach the colour palette was soft and neutral but also really interesting, with shells, driftwood and sand featuring intricate patterns that made me want to reach out and touch them.

The gabled ceiling, lined with bandsawn timber sarking, adds yet another layer of depth and character to the kitchen. The soft, natural light filtering through the space enhances the textural beauty, making this kitchen feel like a true extension of the coastal scenery just beyond its walls.

The brief for this home was nature-inspired and neutral, and just like at a beach the element keeping the neutrals interesting is texture. So we wanted to combine as many of these as possible. The cabinetry, crafted from crown-cut oak veneer and stained to enhance the natural woodgrain, offers a sense of warmth and organic beauty. To maintain a clean and minimalist aesthetic, we fully integrated the appliances behind the wood cabinetry, ensuring that the natural materials take centre stage. Above, the range hood cover is plastered, further contributing to the tactile appeal of the space. Every surface carries a unique texture, from the stone to the bandsawn wide plank oak flooring underfoot, creating a grounded, welcoming atmosphere.

Stepping into this kitchen is like taking a breath of fresh sea air. Every detail has been carefully considered to create a seamless, functional, and inviting space. The island benchtop, side bench, and splashback feature silver travertine, adding a timeless elegance that echoes the soft, weathered hues of the shoreline.

Bandsawn oak flooring. Crowncut oak veneer cabinetry, with a ¼ greywash stain. Bronze Buddy tapware from Plumbline.

Integrated appliances by Fisher & Paykel.

Cabinetry by Manolas Brothers. Stone by SCE Stone & Design.

Dining

The open-plan dining area flows effortlessly from the kitchen, creating the perfect setting for entertaining or simply enjoying a quiet meal while gazing out at the ocean. The cabinetry continues into this space, with a built-in sideboard crafted from the same oak veneer and silver travertine as the kitchen. Hidden inside, thoughtful wine storage keeps bottles close at hand for effortless hosting.

The dining area features beautifully crafted wood furniture, complementing the natural aesthetic and adding to the sense of connection with the outdoors. Above, curved brass pendant lights introduce a sculptural element, their soft, organic lines mimicking the ebb and flow of the tides.

To complete the look, the table is set with exquisite handcrafted dinnerware by Waiheke Ceramics. Each piece carries an imperfectly perfect quality that reflects the beauty of nature’s own designs—subtle variations that make every meal feel special.

This kitchen and dining space is more than just a place to cook and eat—it’s a sanctuary. Every material, every finish, and every carefully chosen detail work together to create an environment that is both luxurious and deeply connected to its surroundings. The textures of stone, wood, and plaster mirror the rugged yet serene beauty of Waiheke Island’s coastline.

Whether it’s coffee in the morning sunlight or wines and platters at sunset, this space is designed to be lived in, loved, and enjoyed.