Starfish Kitchen Renovation — Gaylene Drew Designs

At Gaylene Drew Designs, my goal is to create spaces that not only look beautiful but also feel like home, resonating with the client's personal style and the natural surroundings. A recent project in Agnes Waters for a Canadian family exemplifies this approach, blending elegance, functionality, and the charm of their home country with the relaxed coastal vibes of Queensland. Located in Agnes Water, this beachside home underwent a dramatic overhaul, turning a once tired and closed-off kitchen into the heart of the home, now brimming with light, style, and practicality.

The original kitchen was a far cry from what the owners envisioned for their family-friendly beach retreat. Outdated yellow cabinetry, aqua benchtops, and malfunctioning drawers made the space feel disjointed and unwelcoming. The kitchen was not only visually out of sync with the rest of the home but was also physically cut off from the outdoor deck, making it difficult for the family to fully enjoy their stunning ocean views.

When the client reached out to GDD, the brief was clear: create a modern kitchen inspired by their Canadian heritage, ensuring it worked harmoniously with recent renovations and provided seamless access to the living, dining, and outdoor areas. They wanted a space where the family and guests could gather comfortably without feeling isolated from the action.

The decision to completely flip the kitchen and dining areas was pivotal. This bold move allowed us to connect the kitchen with the main living spaces, enhancing the flow and creating a stronger indoor-outdoor connection. By installing a large sliding door in the new dining area, we maximized the breathtaking ocean views and natural breezes, bringing the outdoors in.

The new layout also provided ample wall space for upper cabinets and a large island bench, perfect for family gatherings or casual TV dinners. The old kitchen area was reimagined as a social dining and relaxation space, featuring a large bench seat that offers practical storage while making the most of the coastal views.

Throughout the design process, we drew inspiration from Canadian and American kitchens, incorporating elements that resonated with the client's background. The use of natural materials, clean lines, and a neutral palette created a timeless aesthetic that aligns with the home’s beachside setting while offering a nod to the client’s roots.

We replaced the outdated cabinetry and finishes with modern, high-quality materials that not only look beautiful but are built to last. The new kitchen is equipped with a 900w gas cooktop and oven, a fridge and under-bench wine fridge, and a charming double farmhouse sink, all carefully selected to meet the family’s needs and lifestyle

The result is a kitchen that feels larger, lighter, and infinitely more connected to the rest of the home, despite no additional square footage being added. The clients love how the space now allows for easy interaction, whether they’re entertaining guests, cooking family meals, or simply enjoying a quiet moment by the ocean.

At Gaylene Drew Designs, we believe that thoughtful design can transform not just spaces, but the way you live in them. This project is a testament to how a well-planned renovation can bring a sense of ‘home’ to any location—be it a coastal retreat in Agnes Water or beyond.