Finalist for the KBDi Student Design Awards 2025: A Bold Kitchen Vision Comes to Life

I’m incredibly honoured to share that I’ve been selected as a Finalist in the 2025 KBDi Student Design Awards, a national recognition celebrating excellence and innovation in interior design across Australia.

Presented by the Kitchen & Bathroom Designers Institute of Australia, this award acknowledges emerging designers who demonstrate exceptional creativity, functionality, and insight in spatial design. To be recognised among this year’s finalists is a deeply meaningful moment — a reflection of the dedication, experimentation, and heart that has shaped my journey.

About the Project: Brutalism Meets Nature

My finalist submission, Marie and Ralph Roberts’ kitchen, explores a powerful design language — one that balances brutalist influences with organic indoor-outdoor integration. The aim was to create a space that is not only functional, but emotionally resonant — grounded in material honesty and architectural boldness, yet softened by its connection to the natural world.

At the core of the design is a commitment to both form and feeling. Inspired by rugged industrial aesthetics, the kitchen features exposed concrete surfaces, contrasted with natural stone countertops, paying homage to Ralph’s appreciation for raw, enduring materials. The inclusion of lush greenery intentionally dissolves the line between inside and outside, fostering a daily connection to nature and light.

We prioritised functional efficiency through custom-designed storage and intuitive spatial planning, while premium materials and finishes add a quiet layer of luxury. From start to finish, this was a deeply collaborative process — one that honoured Marie and Ralph’s lifestyle and aspirations, and brought their unique vision to life.

A Moment of Gratitude

To be selected for the KBDi Student Design Awards is not only a personal achievement, but also an acknowledgment of the way design can reflect who we are — and where we want to be. This project was about creating more than a kitchen — it was about designing a space that embodies strength, refinement, and grounded beauty.

The winners will be announced at the KBDi Gala Dinner in Adelaide on Saturday, 16 August 2025, during the annual conference. Whatever the outcome, I’m proud to share this recognition with an incredible cohort of emerging designers, and I’m deeply thankful for the support I’ve received from mentors, peers, and clients along the way.

Learn more about the KBDi Student Design Awards and see the full list of finalists:
www.kbdi.org.au