Carina ClaassensThis open plan kitchen and entertaining area allows guests to sit back and relax or roll up their sleeves and help prepare the meal
“Our previous kitchen was completely isolated from the living and dining room, which is typical of the older apartment blocks,” says Sakkie Jooste. “We love to entertain but we didn’t enjoy it because whoever was cooking was always separated from the guests.”
The opportunity to design a new kitchen within an open-plan entertaining area came about when Sakkie and his partner bought the neighbouring apartment in their block in Hyde Park, Jo’burg. “By removing five walls we created a large space bordering the living area,” explains Sakkie.
Interior decorator Mary Sifrin assisted with the decor. The Chinese cabinet is from Trade Roots. Design and installation of the kitchen was done by Graham Chelin of Blues Woodworks.
At the centre of the new area is a custom-designed dining table adjoining an island fitted with a hob. “This arrangement means that the cook never feels excluded,” says Sakkie. “It also encourages an informal approach to entertaining where guests are free to sit back and relax or roll up their sleeves and help prepare the meal.”
While Sakkie wanted the kitchen and dining area to have a contemporary look, it was important for the new space to work with the classical living area. “Instead of a modern design, which we felt would’ve been too sterile, we opted for the warmth of wood,” explains Sakkie, “and we kept the lines clean.” A bulkhead and a raw brick feature wall introduce a contemporary element, as do the Philippe Starck Dr. Yes chairs from Kartell. “Our beautiful Chinese lacquered cabinet works perfectly here, adding just the right amount of formality,” says Sakkie.
To establish unity, the original parquet floors were retained and gaps where walls had been, were filled in with matching blocks. “We’re so pleased with the result,” says Sakkie. “It’s especially lovely in summer when we fold back the sliding doors so that the garden becomes part of the living room.”
*The Chinese cabinet is from Trade Roots. Design and installation of the kitchen was done by Graham Chelin of Blues Woodworks. The Ngwenya Glass lights are from Project Partnership.
