Eclectic kitchen design with Andromeda Lembo

Transitioning from a successful architect to an accomplished photographic artist Andromeda Lembo shares her passion for design and creating inspiring living spaces. Explore her latest kitchen project where her artistic flair and photographic eye merge to create a space of beauty.

Can you tell us a little bit about your self and what you do?:

I grew up in Tasmania, after studying Architecture I moved to Melbourne and worked as an architect for 15 years. We moved to Wollongong to raise our kids. I am a designer and creative at heart and I currently have a few projects going where I can use these skills including my photographic art.

What do you love most about your kitchen and how it makes you feel:

I designed our kitchen to be a place to gather, where we could prepare food as a family and it seamlessly transitions into a place where we can entertain. The tiled island bench is my favourite and a focal point, it adds texture and life to the space. I feel inspired in my kitchen, which is great when you are figuring out what to cook.

What inspired the colour scheme in your kitchen?:

I wanted the space to feel balanced. Mixing white, black and wood grain cabinetry creates interest and a gentle layered effect. It is important that my home feels calm and balanced.

What materials were used for the countertops and backsplash?

We used “ALPINE WHITE” Quantum Quartz for the bench tops and splashbacks. Opting for a full tiled island bench in a Spanish ceramic subway tile in White Satin.

Tell us about the lighting choices in your kitchen.

Lighting is extremely important in a kitchen. We have used all three lighting methods; ambient, task and accent lighting. This gives the kitchen functionality from everyday use to mood lighting when entertaining.

Do you have a favourite feature or appliance in your kitchen?

My favourite feature is the servery window that opens up and connects the kitchen to our outside entertaining area. I also love our Neff induction cooktop with the integrated ventilation system, this means we could do away with an above-bench extraction fan, allowing for clean lines above the bench.

Can you share tips for maintaining the kitchen's cleanliness and organisation?

When I designed the kitchen I included an appliance cupboard and enough storage to house all our stuff, this means that everything has a place and it is easy to keep organised and clean. The butler's pantry allows us to keep the dirty dishes and food items out of view.

Is there anything else you would like to share with us about your kitchen?

To achieve the clean lines in the kitchen we opted for no door knobs or draw pulls, this meant we went for a Tip On drawer system. This means you need to push the drawer to open it and it often opens when you accidentally lean against the drawers. Next time I would probably choose a concealed pull to open the drawers.

What advice do you have for readers looking to renovate their own kitchens?

I would advise talking to a kitchen designer. Make a Pinterest board on kitchens and colour schemes that you love. Try not to go with trends, create a space that is both beautiful and functional.

What's the best way for readers to personalise their kitchens like you did here?

Add beautiful items to your kitchen benchtops that say something about you. I love mixing old and new together, the antique pottery bottles that sit above my cooktop add soul and depth to the newly renovated space, and say a lot about me and my style.

See our article on Andromeda’s Dining space

Discover more from Andromeda Lembo

Follow Andromeda’s  home renovation

Photography by Amani Lindsell