2026 KBDi Awards Entrants
Category: Kitchens Plus NT + SA
Designer: Stefan Vignogna, CKD AU

Designed for a busy professional couple with young children, the kitchen needed to accommodate the rhythms of family life while finally giving a newly extended Victorian home the capacity to entertain. The result is considered and quietly luxurious, with sculptural forms and tactile materials lending the interior a character of its own.

The island leads the design. Conceived as a freestanding piece of furniture rather than a conventional cabinetry run, its American Oak veneer features a crown-cut grain and rich chocolate stain, allowing the timber to glow beneath the marble surface. Gently curved edges and traditional woodworking references give the island the presence of a beautifully crafted buffet, with an Art Deco sensibility that feels timeless rather than decorative.

Surrounding joinery takes a quieter approach. American Oak veneer painted white replaces the expected Shaker profile, creating a classic, light-filled backdrop with a softer, more refined expression. Behind concealed doors, the butler’s pantry disappears beneath the staircase leading to the cellar, with storage tailored around the family’s shopping habits, small appliances and an additional dishwasher. Nearby, a custom steel and reeded glass cellar door introduces another layer of texture and crafted detail.

Rather than simply retaining the existing plumbing arrangement, the plan was carefully reworked to establish distinct zones. Cooking sits towards the rear, while preparation and washing are centred around the island. Small appliances remain concealed in the pantry and a dedicated plate cabinet sits beside the dining area, creating an intuitive connection between kitchen and entertaining spaces.

Developed from early site studies and conceptual sketches through to detailed 3D design, material selection and installation, the project reflects Stefan’s hands-on approach to every element. The completed kitchen feels effortless in use, allowing family life to unfold naturally while giving the once-underperforming extension a sense of purpose, warmth and permanence.

Joinery: Artisan Joinery
Builder: Kopstruct
Photography: Micky Lipapis

For more information

Stefan Vignogna Bespoke Joinery Design
A 23 King William St, Kent Town SA
E contact@stefanvignogna.com
I stefan_vignogna

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