A traditional-look kitchen may well seem an easier option for a designer, but it requires a keen eye and experienced skillset to incorporate all modern attributes discreetly into the mix. This kitchen, by designer Angelique Perak of Hither Consulting, is an excellent case in point.

“The kitchen is at the heart of a new beachside home that celebrates an appropriate casual air and a generous use of natural materials,” says Perak. “As a social hub, the owners wanted the kitchen to look both classic and genuine – not ostentatious. It also had to be backed by plenty of understated modern functionality.”

In pursuit of the classic aesthetic, the kitchen has a butler sink and furniture-like cabinetry, with touches like mesh-front display cabinets and slatted shelving on the island. The ceiling and most walls are in shiplap-style boards, popular in American coastal homes, while the cabinetry boasts Shaker door panels. The oiled brass pulls and nobs are also in the pared-back Shaker style.

The kitchen continues the home’s wider use of natural quality materials, with benchtops in refined Elba marble and corner floating shelves in French Oak. The latter also connects well with the home’s solid French oak flooring.

However, this is just the beginning, with a design that includes everything from discreet functionality to fine detailing to future proofing.

In terms of the future, an alcove behind the fridge allows room for a lift to the second-floor kitchen in years to come.

Of course, the family kitchen is primarily set up for the here and now, with thoughtful touches like hardwood posts specified on the island. The strong corner elements were added to deal with the knocks and bumps expected from four small children. The entire kitchen has also been painted by hand; the subtle texture of paint strokes is part of the kitchen’s honest appeal.

Perak went to great lengths to introduce contemporary functionality unobtrusively into the fabric of the kitchen. Examples include iPad chargers tucked into drawers, a custom pull-out charger for the hand vacuum, and a Zip tap integrated into the coffee station with the gas cylinder set behind panels. All large appliances, except for the fridge and oven, are integrated.

In terms of general functionality, the kitchen is supported by a walk-in scullery and, besides high-end appliances, includes plenty of storage. There’s also a homework station in the kitchen.

All work surfaces in the airy, relaxed kitchen are awash with natural light. This is courtesy of the large skylight introduced above the space.

Overall, the attention to detail is impressive. The flush plug outlets are custom finished to match the brass drawer pulls, the kitchen clock was a station clock in an earlier life – sourced in France. And the authentic Louis Polson pendant lights provide a particularly elegant source of island bench task lighting. The island’s marble benchtop is itself formed from just two slabs of stone to minimise joins – making a strong, simple feature at the front of the kitchen.