Create space, style and functionality in your kitchen

Interior designer Danielle Trippett opened up the family room and kitchen at the back of this double-storey Melbourne terrace house to create space, make it more functional and let in additional north-west light.

A large U-shaped kitchen made way for benches against two walls, as the old central bench subdivided the area. Doing so enabled Danielle to create space in the living area so the couch wasn't hard up against the bench.

The area was further narrowed by a laundry with an angled wall. The wall was removed and the laundry relocated in a cupboard with retractable doors to complement the kitchen cupboards.

An external toilet was renovated and linked to the expanded living room with an internal door. New tall bi-fold doors were fitted into the back wall and two small side windows were enlarged to let in more light. 

A mirrored splashback in the kitchen reflects light and helps to bring the outdoors in.

Cork on the floor was lifted, the floorboards were polished and a glamorous chandelier was hung over the table.

By reworking the existing space rather than extending, Danielle and her husband, Dean, were able to keep the existing courtyard. To further create space they added a timber deck that accentuated the indoor/outdoor feel of the living area.

The couple thought about extending, but worked out that they'd only be adding about two metres and at great cost. They decided the money was better spent on maximising the space they had.

Danielle has been imaginative with creating space through better storage. Two baskets which double as a coffee table provide storage for her three-year-old daughter Annabelle's toys.

The specially made American oak dining table is the focal point of the area so Annabelle can play while Danielle cooks and keeps an eye on her. It's also big enough for six people to sit comfortably for a dinner party.

A flat-screen TV is mounted on a side wall and a smart French-style cabinet stores DVDs, a DVD player and all the bits that technology generates.

Danielle Trippett from Danielle Trippett Interior Design & Decoration

What did you learn from the renovation?

Aiming to create space need not always be about extending.

What is the main advantage of working within the existing building?

It is more economical.

Did your design skills help you to create space?

Absolutely. I understand how to make a space work.

Danielle - Home-owner

What is the best aspect of the renovation?

The additional space we have gained. And it is so much brighter now we've enlarged the windows.

Is the area more efficient?

Yes. Having a table in the kitchen means I can watch my daughter Annabelle while I work. It makes the area the centre of the house.

What about the outdoor area?

Space is tight in the inner city, so you have to make the most of what you've got. We open the doors in summer, so the timber deck becomes a valuable part of our living space.