Minehaha Penthouse

But this was no ordinary home. Set within a pristine penthouse with sweeping 180-degree views over the Waitematā Harbour, the space called for more than a cosmetic update. It deserved a design that honoured its remarkable location - something elevated, intentional, and worthy of its extraordinary outlook. The design needed to balance beauty with durability, elegance with warmth, and refinement with the realities of everyday family life. Together, we reimagined not just a kitchen, but a living space with presence, purpose, and heart - one that would support connection, creativity, hosting, and the quiet moments of home. The brief was elegantly simple. The kitchen island served as the home dining table most days; it needed to be a place for meals, homework, entertaining, and conversation. Our client envisioned an island that felt like a piece of art - a sculptural centrepiece inspired by a striking kitchen he once encountered in the Blue Mountains. The challenge was to translate that inspiration into something personal, timeless, and grounded in real life - a space that could hold both lively family moments and beautifully hosted evenings. Supported by a client who trusted the process and allowed creative freedom, we approached the project with care, intention, and a deep respect for the life unfolding within the home. The result is a kitchen island that reads as art, yet performs as a gathering place — where children grow, stories are shared, guests are welcomed, and everyday moments become memories. From there, the rest of the design flows naturally - cohesive, refined, and designed to leave a lasting impression while thoughtfully responding to both the setting and the family who lives within it.