Designed by: Penny Del Castillo, Studio Del Castillo
Photography by: David Kulesza
Perched above the city, this penthouse kitchen balances elegance and function, intimacy and openness.
After eight years in the apartment, the owners sought a space that better supported their lifestyle – where cooking and connection could coexist and be celebrated.
The existing kitchen and butler’s pantry had become barriers, often isolating Nonna (grandmother) from family gatherings.
The solution was clear – dissolve these divisions and create a kitchen that fosters both efficiency and shared experience.
Functionality and spatial design
The new kitchen is reconfigured as an open, flowing space extending into the living and dining areas while the former butler’s pantry becomes a discreet support zone with a concealed appliance station for visual clarity.
A near-silent exhaust system preserves the atmosphere, while seating for four to five guests encourages conversation without disrupting food preparation.
Custom joinery ensures accessible storage and maintains a refined aesthetic.
Materiality and atmosphere
A palette of brass and timber introduces warmth, counterbalancing the penthouse’s scale with tactile richness.
The bold veining of Cote d’Azur natural stone defines the benchtops, splashback, and fireplace plinth – lending a sculptural quality that grounds the space in natural luxury.
A brass-flued fireplace anchors the space, reinforcing cohesion and permanence.
Light and reflection interact dynamically, enhancing depth and changing through the day.
Sustainability and longevity
Throughout, it was integral that material choices prioritised durability and environmental responsibility.
Responsibly sourced timber, energy-efficient lighting, and high-performance appliances contribute to a design that endures without excess, as well as optimising internal orientation to reduce reliance on external energy.
The wider transformation of the apartment centres around this heart-of-the-home kitchen.
More than a place to prepare meals, it is a space of gathering and ritual, where everyday moments are elevated.
The kitchen is a quiet expression of refinement, seamlessly embedded in the rhythms of home life.
Credit List
DesignerPenny Del Castillo, Studio Del Castillo | CabinetryNavurban Eureka Ebony & Lamicolor Barrique Oak |
Cabinetry hardwareBlum | Benchtops/splashbackSignorino Cote d'Azur |
FlooringWoodcut – White Smoked Herringbone | LightingItalstyle |
Kitchen sinkTurner Hastings Cuisine Matt Black | TapsBrodware |
Oven, cooktop, dishwasherMiele | VentilationSerius |
RefrigerationSubZero | OtherCabinetti fluted panelling |
AwardsTrends International Design Awards (TIDA) Kitchens – Highly Commended |
Perched above the city, this penthouse kitchen balances elegance and function, intimacy and openness.
After eight years in the apartment, the owners sought a space that better supported their lifestyle – where cooking and connection could coexist and be celebrated.
The existing kitchen and butler’s pantry had become barriers, often isolating Nonna (grandmother) from family gatherings.
The solution was clear – dissolve these divisions and create a kitchen that fosters both efficiency and shared experience.
Functionality and spatial design
The new kitchen is reconfigured as an open, flowing space extending into the living and dining areas while the former butler’s pantry becomes a discreet support zone with a concealed appliance station for visual clarity.
A near-silent exhaust system preserves the atmosphere, while seating for four to five guests encourages conversation without disrupting food preparation.
Custom joinery ensures accessible storage and maintains a refined aesthetic.
Materiality and atmosphere
A palette of brass and timber introduces warmth, counterbalancing the penthouse’s scale with tactile richness.
The bold veining of Cote d’Azur natural stone defines the benchtops, splashback, and fireplace plinth – lending a sculptural quality that grounds the space in natural luxury.
A brass-flued fireplace anchors the space, reinforcing cohesion and permanence.
Light and reflection interact dynamically, enhancing depth and changing through the day.
Sustainability and longevity
Throughout, it was integral that material choices prioritised durability and environmental responsibility.
Responsibly sourced timber, energy-efficient lighting, and high-performance appliances contribute to a design that endures without excess, as well as optimising internal orientation to reduce reliance on external energy.
The wider transformation of the apartment centres around this heart-of-the-home kitchen.
More than a place to prepare meals, it is a space of gathering and ritual, where everyday moments are elevated.
The kitchen is a quiet expression of refinement, seamlessly embedded in the rhythms of home life.
Credit List
DesignerPenny Del Castillo, Studio Del Castillo | CabinetryNavurban Eureka Ebony & Lamicolor Barrique Oak |
Cabinetry hardwareBlum | Benchtops/splashbackSignorino Cote d'Azur |
FlooringWoodcut – White Smoked Herringbone | LightingItalstyle |
Kitchen sinkTurner Hastings Cuisine Matt Black | TapsBrodware |
Oven, cooktop, dishwasherMiele | VentilationSerius |
RefrigerationSubZero | OtherCabinetti fluted panelling |
AwardsTrends International Design Awards (TIDA) Kitchens – Highly Commended |
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Portfolios
View Industry Specialists
Askö
Furniture designed for life. Ethically made dining and living furniture and accessories by international and New Zealand designers where refined elegance meets sleek, contemporary form. Explore our extensive range of designer furniture via our Christchurch showroom or browse online.
Plumbing World
Plumbing World is New Zealand’s most prominent 100% Kiwi-owned national plumbing merchant, operating over 50 branches from Kerikeri to Invercargill. Plumbing World offers a wide range of bathroom, kitchen, laundry, heating, and hot water products, catering to trade professionals and homeowners.
Landmark Homes
Founding directors Paul and Debbie Clarke established Landmark Homes in 1977. Their vision was to offer “something more exciting” than the average home: a home that made creative use of space but was also beautiful to live in.
Poggenpohl
Poggenpohl is a premium German kitchen brand known for its innovation, timeless design, and precision craftsmanship, offering bespoke kitchen solutions that blend luxury with functionality.
Mastercraft Kitchens
Founded in 1985, we are the largest group of independently owned and operated kitchen businesses in New Zealand, operating under a national banner. Our licensees have been carefully selected and are experts in their craft. We share an absolute passion for the design, manufacture and installation of high quality, well designed kitchens and other household cabinetry provided with personalised, friendly local service. Think national - be local.
Kitchen Studio
At Kitchen Studio we are very proud of the fact that we are been voted the most trusted kitchen brand in New Zealand for the ninth year running, and there are good reasons why more Kiwis trust us to transform their kitchen than anyone else.
Unavailable
Sorry, this page is not available at this time.