behind the design: Christine Philippa’s new kitchen
Step inside Christine Philippa’s new kaboodle kitchen and discover the design details, storage ideas and finishes behind this inspiring kitchen makeover.
When it came time to create her dream kitchen, Christine Philippa wanted a space that felt warm, welcoming and practical for everyday living. The result is a beautifully balanced kitchen design homeowners can take inspiration from — layered with soft tones, natural textures and thoughtful functionality.
Part of the Rimu retreat project, Christine’s new kaboodle kitchen proves that a stylish and highly functional kitchen renovation doesn’t need to feel overwhelming. By combining contemporary finishes with practical kitchen storage and flexible design choices, the space feels personal, relaxed and designed for real life.
From busy weekday mornings to slow weekends entertaining friends and family, this kitchen was designed to support the moments that matter most. It’s a perfect example of how thoughtful kitchen design ideas can create a home that feels both elevated and easy to live in.
the design vision behind Christine Philippa’s kitchen
Christine’s vision centred around creating a warm modern kitchen that felt timeless, calming and connected to the rest of the home. Rather than following trends too closely, the design focused on natural finishes, practical living and a softer take on contemporary kitchen inspiration.
The cabinetry features kaboodle’s saltbush doors and panels, creating a subtle earthy base that feels right at home in modern New Zealand interiors. The muted tone pairs beautifully with the truffle oak open shelving, adding warmth, texture and a relaxed lived-in feel to the overall design.
To complete the palette, Christine selected the salt pan benchtop. Its soft organic finish helps brighten the space while complementing the warmer timber tones throughout the kitchen. Salento worn gold handles add the final layer of detail, bringing warmth and a refined touch without feeling overly formal.
Together, the finishes create a kitchen that feels approachable, sophisticated and highly functional — exactly the kind of kitchen inspiration many homeowners are searching for when planning their own renovation.
the kaboodle elements that help bring the look together
One of the strengths of a kaboodle kitchen is the flexibility to combine finishes, storage and layout options to create a space that truly feels like your own.
In Christine’s kitchen, every design choice works together to balance beauty and practicality.
cabinetry that creates warmth
The saltbush doors and panels provide a soft neutral foundation that instantly makes the space feel calm and inviting. Neutral kitchen cabinets continue to be one of the most popular kitchen design ideas because they work across a wide range of home styles while remaining timeless over the years.
natural texture through open shelving
The truffle oak open shelves introduce warmth and visual texture while also helping the kitchen feel lighter and more open. Open shelving is a popular kitchen trend as it allows homeowners to style everyday pieces while creating a more relaxed atmosphere.
benchtops designed for everyday living
Christine chose the salt pan benchtop for its soft, natural appearance and durability. Kitchen benchtops play a major role in both the look and functionality of a kitchen, so selecting a surface that balances practicality with style is essential during any kitchen renovation.
finishing details that elevate the space
The salento worn gold handles add subtle contrast and sophistication. Warm metallic finishes continue to feature strongly in modern kitchen inspiration because they pair beautifully with natural tones and timber textures.
kitchen storage ideas worth stealing
Beautiful kitchens also need to work hard behind the scenes. Christine’s kitchen includes practical kitchen storage ideas that help keep the space functional for everyday family living.
prioritise deep drawers
Deep drawers make it easier to organise cookware, plates and larger kitchen items while improving accessibility. They’re one of the simplest kitchen cabinet ideas to include in a kitchen makeover.
create zones for daily living
Separating the kitchen into functional zones helps improve flow and efficiency. Christine’s kitchen balances preparation, cooking and storage areas to support busy routines while keeping the space feeling open and uncluttered.
blend open and closed storage
Combining open shelving with concealed kitchen storage creates visual balance while maintaining practicality. Open shelves allow for styling opportunities, while closed cabinetry helps reduce visual clutter.
think about everyday functionality
When planning kitchen ideas for small spaces or family homes, practical details matter. Soft-close drawers, efficient pantry storage and easy-clean surfaces all help create a kitchen that feels effortless to use every day.
how to recreate Christine’s kitchen style in your own home
If you love Christine Philippa’s kitchen design, there are several ways to recreate the look in your own home.
start with a moodboard
Collect inspiration images that reflect the colours, textures and finishes you love. Focus on warm neutrals, natural timber tones and layered textures for a similar aesthetic.
choose a flexible neutral base
Neutral kitchen cabinets create flexibility and longevity. Saltbush doors and panels provide a calm backdrop that works beautifully with a wide range of styling choices.
add texture through timber
Introducing timber through shelving or accents helps create warmth and depth. Truffle oak open shelving is a simple way to soften contemporary kitchens while adding character.
layer practical storage
Good kitchen design combines aesthetics with functionality. Think about how you use your kitchen daily and include storage solutions that support your lifestyle.
use the kaboodle kitchen planner
Before finalising your kitchen renovation, use the kaboodle kitchen planner to visualise your layout, finishes and storage options. It’s a helpful way to explore different kitchen design ideas and create a kitchen that feels tailored to your home.
why this kitchen works for New Zealand homes
Christine’s kitchen reflects the way many New Zealand homeowners want to live today — relaxed, practical and connected.
The soft earthy palette works beautifully with natural light, while the mix of open and concealed storage supports everyday family routines. The design feels elevated without becoming overly formal, making it ideal for homes where kitchens are truly the heart of the home.
It’s also a reminder that great kitchen inspiration isn’t just about how a space looks. The best kitchens support real life — from morning coffees and homework sessions to entertaining friends and creating family traditions.
That’s what makes this kitchen feel so relatable for homeowners planning their own kitchen makeover.
For more ideas and information, visit our design blog and image gallery, or follow us on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook and Pinterest.