Case study: The Professional Kitchen by Henrybuilt

When tasked with designing a new, experiential space for Fisher & Paykel’s Global Experience Center in Aotearoa, New Zealand, Seattle-based Henrybuilt opted for an approach that prioritized functional sophistication, design refinement, and craft quality, creating the perfect space to showcase the heritage manufacturer’s professional-style appliances. The end result: A kitchen that exemplifies how exceptional appliances can—and should—seamlessly fold into a meticulously designed domestic environment.

For more than 70 years, Henrybuilt has been synonymous with luxury kitchen design. Grounded in their philosophy to seamlessly blend the rigor of hand-made carpentry with the precision of modern technology is an approach that sees kitchens as not just functional, but enduring works of art.

The Professional Kitchen exemplifies this dedication. Solid timber and stone construction form the heart of the design, radiating a timeless elegance that complements any culinary passion. This commitment to natural materials extends to the countertops and backsplashes, featuring stunning Montpellier-style stone that was sourced directly from Henrybuilt's Northwestern home and designed and fabricated in the USA, before finding its home to rest in Aotearoa.

A symphony of texture and sustainability

Sustainability is a core tenet of Henrybuilt's design philosophy, with quality materials forming the cornerstone of their practice. The Professional Kitchen embraces this principle with the incorporation of Onyx PaperStone for the cabinetry. This beautiful and durable composite material not only boasts exceptional performance but also contributes to a lighter environmental footprint. This deeper meaning enhances the enduring kitchen design, which is supported by a warranty for life.

Timber takes center stage throughout the space, with roasted walnut offering a warm and inviting base. Accents of natural walnut on the built-in table and benches add depth and character, while hints of black walnut introduce a touch of intrigue. The drawer pulls, crafted from recycled leather and darkened bronze, showcase Henrybuilt's dedication to sustainable materials while simultaneously introducing a timeless elegance with a hint of aged patina.

Beyond aesthetics: functionality redefined

While aesthetics are paramount, there is functionality in every design. The expansive island and built-in table stretch nearly 9 meters, creating a generous workspace that caters to even the most ambitious culinary projects. The layout prioritizes efficiency, ensuring a smooth flow between cooking and cleaning zones—core aspects of Fisher & Paykel’s design philosophy.

Coming from a human-centered background, Henrybuilt’s first consideration is functionality. Usage of the space informs the design; it is a kitchen intended to withstand heavy usage and negate fleeting trends. Here, storage solutions are as beautiful as they are practical. The wet bar cabinetry, featuring twin CoolDrawers, is cleverly wall-mounted for a furniture-like feel, offering a designated space for beverages and entertaining. Pocket doors discreetly conceal the appliance garage, keeping small appliances out of sight when not in use. And meticulous attention to detail is evident throughout, with consistent 0.1-inch gaps maintaining a clean and visually balanced aesthetic between cabinetry and any potential appliance additions.

A space designed for serious cooks

Fisher & Paykel’s freestanding ranges at the far end of the kitchen serve as a powerful statement, a testament to the space's dedication to serious cooking. They stand aligned with the adjacent wall unit benchtops, diligently crafted by Henrybuilt to match the precise heights of the countertop and cabinetry. Ventilation seamlessly integrates through flues incorporated into the design, while exposed stainless steel canopies add a nod to industrial chic, softening the overall visual impact.

Professional-style appliances

Fisher & Paykel complements Henrybuilt's artistry with its human-centered approach to kitchen design. The brand’s Professional Style appliances, known for restaurant character, refined power, and robust materiality, echo Henrybuilt's focus on functionality. Fisher & Paykel understands the kitchen's role as both a workspace and a personal statement, where design freedom considers the ability to distribute and integrate appliances into work zones that enhance the way you live.

Elsewhere, beauty of choice allows for appliance selections that work within Henrybuilt's design, ensuring both performance and aesthetics remain uncompromised. This collaborative spirit elevates The Professional Kitchen, creating a space where function and beauty inspire culinary exploration.

The Professional Kitchen: A masterpiece by Henrybuilt

The Professional Kitchen is a master class in design and craftsmanship, a space where culinary dreams come to life. It is a testament to Henrybuilt and Fisher & Paykel’s shared dedication to pushing the boundaries of design innovation and creating exceptional kitchens that empower their inhabitants to express their culinary passions. This is not just a kitchen; it is a canvas for creation, a space where artistry and functionality collide to elevate the everyday act of cooking into an extraordinary experience.

To learn more about Fisher & Paykel, visit www.fisherpaykel.com. We also welcome you to our Experience Centers to see our premium appliance collection in person. 

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