Design Focused

Design Focused
Joanna Hoeft from Studio Italia talks changing trends when it comes to tones, textures and materials.

 

Joanna Hoeft set up Auckland’s Studio Italia kitchen division in 2004 and has continually stayed abreast of contemporary styles and trends. Interestingly, Hoeft says her most recent clients have been requesting more greys and dark, muted tones, pairing them with plenty of alluring textures, such as black elm timbers. “While colour used to be the starting point, it is now about texture,” she says. “It’s also rare for a modern kitchen to be just one finish. We’re mixing materials all the time and I think that’s what makes each space bespoke, since the combination is different for every person.” Hoeft also admits homeowners have been shying away from less durable lacquers in favour of laminate. “It creates a surface that is fingerprint-repellant, which is the best way to do black.”

When working with her clients, Hoeft’s first step is to discuss their vision for the kitchen before establishing the look and feel. She believes it is also important to learn about a client’s lifestyle at the early stages as this will dictate finishes. “For example, if they have quite a pedantic personality, I may steer them away from stainless steel as it develops a natural patina,” Hoeft explains. “Similarly, marble is beautiful and we love it, but it doesn’t suit some clients. Ceramic is a great alternative and it’s a relatively new material that it is really durable.”

Visit studioitalia.co.nz

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