| 107 T T Sue Russell Enjoying the challenges Shane says that great kitchen design comes down to placing key elements in the perfect place in relation to each other and the whole space. Shane George Design JOINERY Auckland kitchen and bathroom designer Shane George says he enjoys the challenges that come with melding client brief, spacial parameters, latest thinking, practicality and functionality into each bespoke design he creates. His history in the sector spans several decades now and his work has been recognised at the highest level numerous times, taking out NZ Kitchen Designer of the Year three times. He began his working life though as a joinery apprentice but soon discovered his passion lay in design, taking himself ‘back to school’ to complete a two-year design course delivered through NKBA – the National Kitchen Bathroom Association. “When I first started designing I still had a manufacturing space, however decided I wanted to focus on the design side and sold the manufacturing workshop, however it certainly helped me to have the practical understandings that working in joinery gave me.” That experience gave Shane an important valuing of what goes into outstanding cabinetry work. And when undertaking a kitchen design, for example, it is not simply a case of sitting down with the client and working up a design that ticks all the boxes, it is also just as much about project management, dealing with all the trades involved and procurement of materials. Shane says design ideas from clients come in all forms of refinement, with some presenting quite clear thinking as to what they want and why. “In those early conversations it can be a case of just pushing them a little bit outside their pre-conceptions. Renovations of course are also quite different to new builds. “My role, and that of any designer, is to be up to date with new technologies and design thinking and to balance the world of possibilities with the prudent use of funds.” When Business North spoke with Shane he had about 10 projects on the go at various phases of design and construct. He’s somewhat philosophical about trends that come and go. “Islands were once the new big thing, especially with the move toward more open plan home design but now they are mainstream. Sculleries used to be hidden behind doors but now they are more open and tucked around a corner.” Shane’s kitchen project at a new home on Waiheke Island is a fine example of what can be achieved with careful thought as to where household traffic flows and in proportioning a kitchen to the perfect size, without compromising access to the key elements of fridge, cooking area and sink. The kitchen received a ‘Highly Commended’ citation from judges. The Brief outlined, island seating, a bar, a good size fridge and a timber finish to cabinetry, plus flow and function that could easily cater for a busy family. Cabinetry on the back wall would be full height, accommodating ovens, fridge and good storage. “I designed bifold doors to open and reveal the pantry on the right and bar/small appliance space on the left, both with internal stone benchtops.” A wine cabinet is positioned under the bar while multiple drawers sit under the pantry cupboard. Natural oak timber blends beautifully with the floor and cedar timber ceiling. “It’s actually not a big kitchen but has been pared back to really lovely proportions. Having the gas cooker on the island meant we needed to think very carefully about its minimum size as it is also where the sink is located and people gather and sit on the other side.” Great kitchen design, Shane says, comes down to placing key elements in the perfect place in relation to each other and the whole space. “It’s a very creative profession which I find both enjoyable and challenging.” “I designed bifold doors to open and reveal the pantry on the right and bar/small appliance space on the left, both with internal stone benchtops.” Discover more at cdkstone.co.nz AUCKLAND | CHRISTCHURCH Natural Stone: Mystique Green Quartzite, Calacatta Viola Marble, Negresco Granite Design: Rarebirds Interiors, Shane George Design, Lume Design CDK Stone New Zealand sources the most beautiful Natural Stone on the planet. Our superb range of Marble, Travertine, Quartzite, Limestone, Granite and other exotic stones showcase individuality and natural beauty that propel NZ design. Discover CDK Stone New Zealand’s range of premium Natural Stone online or by visiting one of our showrooms. RH Cabinet Makers - Proudly supporting Shane George Design Ltd 09 826 3511 enquiries@rhcabinetmakers.co.nz www.rhcabinetmakers.co.nz If you are planning a kitchen renovation in your home andwant to install a fully bespoke design, or if you want custom cabinetry for another room in your house, get in touch with us. We design, manufacture, and install customised cabinetry throughout Auckland, with exceptional standards of finish at competitive prices.
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