Tetsuya's Master Kitchen

The kitchen is amazing. Apparently Tetsuya along with Electrolux designers, hand picked the piece of Calacutta marble that covers the island bench. I love this marble with it’s mixture of warm and cool colours.

Another design feature of the kitchen is the tap-less sinks. There are leather knee pads which can be leant on to bring water into the undermount sinks. This all helps in setting the stage. Because this kitchen IS a stage and nothing blocks your view.

Knee pads and tap-less sink

During the masterclass the room was filled with wonderful aromas of lobster, foie gras, garlic, ginger, chilli and sesame oil but we were so disappointed that the custom designed and built, Electrolux overhead exhaust worked so well.

Delightful aromas wafting straight to the exhaust

The nominal smoke and sumptuous fragrance was quickly sucked away. The exhaust is hidden behind smoked glass which hangs above the island bench.

Hidden exhaust above the island bench

Tetsuya talked and cooked his way through five dishes. He has been using Electrolux kitchen appliances for over 20 years and has nothing but high praise for them.

The Maestro at work

He loves the immediacy of induction cooking as well the ability to maintain the same temperature over the entire pan.

Wagu Beef with a touch of Wasabi

He demonstrated this by searing Wagu steak before popping it in the oven at 70C whilst he cooked the other dishes including Chilli Crab, an amazing lobster dish and a colourful chicken dish with couscous.

Chicken and Couscous

We then moved into the working kitchen and sat down to an 11 course degustation menu with accompanying wines.

Tetsuya's kitchen

The food was absolutely delicious and included Tetsuya’s signature dish Confit Petuna Ocean Trout with Konbu, Celery and Apple.

Tetsuya's Signature Dish

In between oohing and aahing over the food, the wine and the busy 7 chefs in the kitchen, we had time to talk amongst ourselves.

I was delighted to be seated next to three lovely fellow bloggers, Jo, Lisa and Camilla. We chatted about all things blogging and it was so much fun to put faces behind names.

Blogfest

The two polite gentlemen from Electrolux, that were seated with us, probably wondered what on earth they had struck. But they regaled us with their knowledge on current kitchen trends and the making of a fridge. Did you know that Electrolux manufactures fridges in New South Wales and Ovens in South Australia? And did you know that an energy efficient fridge uses about the same, if not less, power than a 40 watt bulb?

It was a wonderful night and we left singing the praises of Electrolux and Tetsuya, swinging our sample bags.

Contents of the goodies bag

Thank you Electrolux!

Related posts:

1. Alex Perry & Electrolux at Saturday in Design
2. Hot and Steamy
3. What’s Cooking?

Fast forward to this week and the beautiful kitchen I designed for them is featured in Country Home Ideas.

The kitchen was part of the new extension and as all members of the family like to cook, it was to become the centrepiece of the home. Linda and Kevin knew what they wanted, a sort of cross between French Provincial and Farmhouse style. So I dubbed it the “Farmincial” Kitchen. After designing the layout, we went through every pot, pan and utensil in their kitchen and worked out which would be the best location for them in the new set up.

Linda fell in love with the granite slab which worked beautifully with the existing colour scheme we had chosen for the home. The splashback presented a problem as we liked the look of glass but it was far too modern for the style of kitchen. We didn’t like the traditional ceramic tiles either. Linda had seen an image of a splashback that had two colours and liked the idea of a mixture. So in the end we settled on glass 100 x 100 tiles in 4 colours.

We didn’t want it too contrived, so I asked the tiler if he would just put them up, any old how. He was too scared to be left with that weight on his shoulders, so I drew up a plan and he tiled by colours!

The end result is a beautiful family kitchen that is the main attraction in this fantastic home.

A big thank you to Editor, Margaret and Sub Editor, Zoe for featuring my work and to my wonderful clients, Kevin and Linda for not only being fabulous to work with, but also allowing the magazine to feature them.

If you would like assistance with your home renovation, contact us to see how we can help.

Related posts:

1. Kitchen Reflections
2. What’s Cooking?
3. Keep them in the air

Kitchen designed by Inside Out Colour and Design

I’m looking at various splashback options and one I can’t go past at the moment is mirror.

It looks especially good when there is a wonderful view being reflected and there is no need to bring in a colour as the mirror does that for you.

via Home Ideas Magazine

If you are thinking of using a mirrored splashback, make sure it’s made of moisture resistant tempered glass. Try a smoked mirror which will soften the look.

What do you think? Would you like a mirrored splashback?

If you would like assistance with designing your kitchen, contact us for an on-line or in person consultation.

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1. The Making Of A Kitchen
2. Mirror, mirror on the wall
3. Keep them in the air

Electrolux E:Volution BBQ

Barbecues are synonymous with summer in Australia, where most families cook a meal on the barbecue 2 – 3 times a week. This new barbecue has been designed here in Australia so will complement today’s contemporary outdoor spaces and deliver precise cooking results.

I was fortunate to be at the launch of the E:Volution Barbecue yesterday at the Overseas Passenger Terminal at Sydney’s Circular Quay. It was a beautiful day and the view across the quay to the Opera House was sensational.

Ben O'Donoghue

Chef Ben O’Donoghue put the barbecue through it’s paces and served up a delicious Thai Style BBQ Fish and BBQ Vietnamese Lamb. Ben did say that most people think of barbecues as steak and sausages but there is a whole world of flavours that can just as easily be cooked on the barbecue as they can in the kitchen. And this new barbecue makes it very easy with it’s roasting hood and separate grilling plate.

I wondered if Ben had been playing Spotto with his kids.

Most of us love getting outdoors in the warmer weather and what better way to entertain friends and family than with a shared meal outdoors.

Outdoor room via Australian House and Garden Photography by Maree Homer

Fire up the barbie, gather round the friends and while away the afternoon in your outdoor room.

Thank you Electrolux for a lovely day and the goodie bag wasn’t half bad either!

Herbies BBQ Spices, Maggie Beer Vinegars and Oils and Ben's Barbecue Book

If you would like assistance creating an outdoor entertaining area to share with your friends and family, contact us to enquire about our design services.

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Tetsuya Wakada

There’s a long list of famed restaurants I would like to visit here in Sydney and Tetsuya’s is at the top of the list. So how could I refuse such a wonderful invitation?

It was a treat to see his Masterkitchen, designed especially for him. There is a huge marble island in the centre which houses 2 Electrolux convection cooktops and two sinks. The sinks have knee operated water dispensers. These knee pads are positioned to suit Tetsuya’s knee!

Masterkitchen

The kitchen, which was designed in collaboration with Electrolux Design team. Tetsuya has been using Electrolux products in his restaurant for the past 20 years and this kitchen features the Electrolux Ebony Collection. These dark appliances were inspired by emerging design trends at Eurocucina back in 2008. They work well with the dark cabinetry and striking marble island.

Electrolux Compact Steam Oven

But the real show was watching Tetsuya demonstrate the new E:Line Steam Oven which has been designed for the domestic kitchen. Tetsuya was very impressed with the steam oven and cooked baby barrumundi and chicken breast fillets. His advice for cooking at home was to only use one pot or one dish which was all that was needed in the oven. I liked that – hardly any washing up!

Tetsuya explaining the steaming process

Tetsuya explained that the technology in these ovens does everything for you. And the best part was you get consistent results. Unlike steaming in traditional methods over a pot of boiling water, the oven keeps the temperature constant. All you have to do is tell the oven what you’re cooking and how much it weighs. The oven calculates the correct temperature, amount of steam and cooking time for you.The Electrolux Compact Steam Oven combines steam, heat and grill functions to bring out the best in food.

Steamed Fillet of Baby Barramundi with roasted fennel, chinese olive, orange and garlic

Apart from the health benefits steam cooking offers, it is also convenient and enhances the natural taste of fresh produce as the food retains its flavour. The proof was in the eating and I must admit, I couldn’t fault it.

Steamed Breast of Chicken with Polenta, Tomato, Basil and Bacon

Tetsuya also demonstrated the new E:Motion Trivet allowing wok cooking on induction hobs through an innovative and beautifully designed trivet accessory. The trivet is made of aluminium and can be placed directly on the induction hob.

E:Motion Trivet and Wok

It will not become hot and will keep the round based wok flat and just above the heat. I wanted a baby trivet to wear as a cuff. It was very stylish. The trivet and wok will be available in Australia in October 2010.

Tetsuya using the E:Motion Trivet and Wok

Thank You, Electrolux, for the invitation and Thank You, Tetsuya, for the wonderful lunch.

Related posts:

1. Masterclass in Masterkitchen
2. Alex Perry & Electrolux at Saturday in Design
3. What’s Cooking?

Masterchef Top Ten

The kitchen has always been the hub of the house and used to be designated to it’s own room.

1950's kitchen via Photosfan.com

Over the years, we have opted for open plan living and the Kidili was born.

Kitchen Dining Living Room

At one stage everything was on display and then we put all the ugly bits behind cupboard doors.

Kitchen by Larry Laslo via Metropolitan Homes

A few years ago, kitchens became smaller as there was a general consensus that we didn’t cook anymore, we assembled. You know, buy the salad mix, garlic bread and pre-made pasta and just assemble the meal in the kitchen.

via Australian House and Garden

According to attendees at the recent Milan Furniture Fair, it would appear there is a push to have the kitchen look like furniture pieces and not built in cabinetry.

Kitchen designed by Vincente Wolfe

But now with this interest in cooking (over 2 million viewers are watching Masterchef each night), are the kitchens going to get bigger again?

Gwynneth Paltrow's kitchen via Habitually Chic

Kitchens remain the most expensive room in the house and it’s usually the first area the woman checks out when looking to buy a property.

Kitchen designed by Steve Gianetti

So tell me, what’s cooking in your kitchen? Are you creating gourmet meals from scratch and therefore need that huge island bench, large fridge, commercial style cooktop and plenty of cupboard space, or are you still assembling a quick and tasty meal for the family?

What's cooking?

Be sure to have a good weekend and enjoy your kitchen no matter what size it is.

Related posts:

1. The Making Of A Kitchen
2. Alex Perry & Electrolux at Saturday in Design
3. Kitchen Reflections

London Bobby via Flickr

No not that one, the metal one.

via Axolotl

It seems weird to me that for the past eight years or so, we’ve been putting shades of brown on our walls, sofas and floors yet all of our metals have been stainless steel. Think refrigerators, range hoods, dishwashers etc.

via House and Garden Photographer Phillip Castelton

Now we are moving into a grey era and the metals turn to Copper.

I have lived with a copper range hood for the past seven years. I vowed and declared the day I moved in, that that range hood HAD to go. Alas, my new kitchen is still coming and now I’m wondering if I should be keeping the range hood and working the kitchen around it.

My kitchen range hood

These are some of the copper items I’ve spied of late.

Tom Dixon's Copper Shades

Boyd Copper Side Table

Bandhini Copper Coin Cushion

What do you think, is it a fad or is Copper here to stay?

Wall colours selected by Inside Out Colour & Design

We can help you create a harmonious environment in your home, whether you like copper or steel. Contact us to arrange an appointment.

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Colourful interior by John Croft Design

However, there are times when one needs to rest. Too much colour can sometimes have a negative effect. This is when you need to include some white. White is pure and clean and creates a calm spot to rest the eyes or body.

Enter Whiteport. All your white accessories and small furniture items in the one place…..and online! You don’t even have to leave home.

Kitchen accessories by Whiteport

Jennifer McCabe, founder of Whiteport has sourced beautiful bath, bed and table items and put them all together on her website.

Many, many years ago, my Grandmother helped me buy my first dinner set. We chose an all white set which I still use today. White is timeless and goes with everything. The white plate allows the food to take centre stage.

White dinner set from Whiteport

I love going to hotels and having nice fluffy white towels and there’s something luxurious about slipping between crisp, white sheets.

White bed linen from Whiteport

At the moment, Whiteport is offering up to 40% discount on certain items when you sign up for their email newsletter.

Whether your style is Beach, French Provincial, Hamptons or Traditional, white will work for you.

So pop over and grab yourself some refreshing new items for your home.

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3. Build A Room From Scratch

These days most families have a computer….or two and most of the family use it……or them. From online shopping, paying household bills, children’s homework, researching the ideal household pet and running home businesses, the computer and a suitable workplace is one of the top priorities for most families.

The problem comes when we want ready access to the computer yet we don’t want it to dominate the living the space or be “pinging” away letting everyone know “you’ve got mail.”

This is probably the most popular image on the internet of a compact, yet stylish office.

Image via Kelly Green

It has everything required to undertake household officework. The idea that the door can be closed when someone is not actually working on the computer is a great bonus.

This is another take on the same theme.

Armoire via freshhome.com

The beauty of this one is that you can take it with you when you move houses.

Home Office Made Easy supply this unit which is practical though not as stylish as the above two.

Desk In A Cupboard

The kitchen is an ideal spot for a laptop. I keep all my recipes on the computer and having it right there in the kitchen would save paper and energy. I always find that things come to me as I’m peeling the vegetables and I down tools and rush off to send an email or look something up on the ‘net.

Image from Australian House and Garden

Image by Lucy Interior Design

Image from lindyweaver.com

Either way you look at it, the computer is here to stay and having it close at hand where everyone can use it makes alot of sense.

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I do love the diversity of this job and the many and varied projects I get to tackle.

I started the week choosing a colour scheme for clients who have recently bought a beautiful Federation Home. Each room is painted a different colour and all windows have very fussy curtains. Whilst my clients like the traditional look, they also like the more relaxed feel of neutral walls and more simple window coverings. So after the colour selection I had fun choosing a selection of Sanderson fabrics to show them next week.

Country Linens by Sanderson

Borocay by Sanderson

I have also been tile shopping looking for a hard wearing, easily maintained, travertine look-alike for an entry and hall. This particular home has a Tuscan influence and the clients here love colour. We are considering a metallic paint for the walls of the dining room and black and sage green upholstery on the chairs. It will be very dramatic.

Maybe something like this for the entry but travertine look not marble

Then I had a step back in time to a lovely home in an amazing location but very 80′s. Did you read Millie’s post a while back on the 80′s? Boy that brought back memories. This house has some of those features and the clients would like to make it a comfortable, family entertainer. First to go is the swags and tails and the busy bathrooms…oh and the massive chandelier at the entry.

1980's Style Lightfitting

And today I’m off to advise a client on a new kitchen. She wants contemporary, handleless white cupboards with Ceasarstone benchtops and a red splashback. Red is a great colour for the kitchen as it increases gastronomic juices. Not so good if you are perpetually on a diet, though!

Maybe something like this except red, not orange. Photo from Australian House and Garden

Throw into this mix a daughter who wants to go to a Halloween Disco tonight as a “Dead Diva” and it’s been one hectic week. My head is spinning so I’m off to have a coffee and get cracking to have all these things sorted before 5pm.

Have a wonderful weekend and Happy Halloween.

Related posts:

1. Beautiful Bathrooms
2. Choosing the right colour
3. Colour Schemes