Belle KITCHENS bathrooms

From conversational hubs to cloister-like havens, each of these tailor-made spaces ensures functionality and good looks go hand in hand.

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1 INTERIOR DESIGNER YSG Studio CASUAL INTIMACY [Byron Bay, NSW

THIS RETRO-INSPIRED KITCHEN BY SYDNEY'S YSG STUDIO navigates the needs of two very different cooks - one messy, the other 'a neat freak' - with the introduction of an L-shaped counter configuration and scullery behind. A fixed slatted timber screen conceals any mess while ensuring conversational connections between the two zones. In the centre, a circular island topped with pearlescent marble and fitted with a chrome footrest acts as a casual leaning post for drinks, playing to the owners' love of '70s design.

"Our clients, a sociable couple with two young kids, wanted their home to function intimately, yet morph into eclectic breakout zones that sparked conversations when entertaining," says YSG co-director Yasmine Ghoniem. "We sourced vintage sconces and pendants to provide soft illumination and retro furnishings to enhance the home with an off-kilter elegance." Key inclusions are the Murano glass chandelier above the island, a sconce by London designer Lewis Kemmenoe in the scullery, watermelon striped blinds by Petre's Curtains & Blinds and bespoke 'squiggle' timber handles and chrome cupboard pulls entwined in soft brown leather. ysg.studio; @ysg.studio

2 INTERIOR DESIGNER Studio Johnston PEACHY KEEN [Sydney]