Nest Kitchen by Studio Doherty for Laminex

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Laminex Studio Doherty Nest Kitchen Design Collaboration Yellowtrace 03

Studio Doherty has unveiled Nest, their second kitchen, in collaboration with Laminex. The design—a masterclass in how to do more with less— is tailored to inspire those embarking on their first renovation or building project in smaller homes or apartments. The Melbourne-based studio leveraged its extensive expertise and daring use of colour and materials to create a kitchen that is both creative and functional.

Designed with younger families in mind, Nest is a space for cooking, dining, and connecting. Featuring a striking contrast, the studio deployed a daring blend of colour palettes, while its shapes and design elements pay homage to the timeless charm of mid-century diners.

A seamless, integrated circular booth is at the heart of the design, creating opportunities for connection and conversation throughout the day. Showcasing a captivating odyssey of tactility and colour, Nest brings a revitalised approach to compact living and a place to create memorable moments. The distinctive curve that defines Nest evokes the timeless charm of retro diners and homestyle hospitality, all reimagined in a contemporary interpretation of a classic.

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Laminex Studio Doherty Nest Kitchen Design Collaboration Yellowtrace 10

“In a larger kitchen, you’d have a separate dining area, whereas in a smaller kitchen, in an apartment, things must work a little harder, and the idea of integrating the dining was essential to the success of this design. We loved the idea of having a circular dining section that inserted itself into the island bench,” says Studio Doherty’s Director, Mardi Doherty.

To the left of the kitchen, a suspended pantry makes for a striking contrast in Laminex Kalamata AbsoluteMatte, a beautifully deep plum-red that showcases Laminex’s wide colour range. The pantry has been lined using Laminex Coastal Sunrise in the doors and panels, while Laminex Just Blue and Pale Honey line the back and shelves, respectively. The whimsical palette gives the space the charm of an Italian deli, living up to Doherty’s idea of a fun and friendly space.

The design potential of the Laminex range is on full display in Nest, with Studio Doherty employing several surfaces and techniques in the construction and manufacture of the kitchen. Laminex Surf, a slightly dirty white, yellow-based neutral that works perfectly with timber and earthy tone, was used to anchor their elaborate palette—keeping everything cool and calm. The interiors and the rear cabinetry haven’t escaped Studio Doherty’s signature colour play either, finished using Laminex Terril and a neat shadow line in Laminex Just Blue that quietly abuts the counter and the central island bench, tying the theme together.

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Laminex Studio Doherty Nest Kitchen Design Collaboration Yellowtrace 17

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Always playful but never at the expense of practicality, Studio Doherty has linked each zone with care and consideration. Features such as the drawer at the end of the banquette make an ideal home for kids’ toys, picnic gear or oversized platters and plates. Matching the Laminex Olivine seen throughout, the central table is stained very carefully to coordinate with the Laminex Smoked Birchply of the underside, giving texture, personality and added depth to the palate.

Nest’s greatest strength is how it demonstrates the possibility of colour and how being playful can work in all spaces, particularly effective in smaller areas. “The choice of colour was the biggest challenge. We knew people might feel conflicted about combining blue and green, but we really love it and seeing these two finishes together made a lot of sense to us. It feels quite lively and inviting. And it feels friendly, which we love,” says Doherty on the design and palate decisions.

Nest’s functional and innovative design illustrates how a considered palate can aid in creating creative and responsive rooms of any size. To discover more on Laminex x Studio Doherty collaboration, visit laminex.com.au.

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