A Curved Island Feature in American Oak Wall Panels

The brief for this project was clear: create a kitchen that felt warm, refined and intentional. A space designed not just for cooking, but for gathering.

The client wanted a feature beneath the island bench that echoed the material language of the rest of the kitchen cabinetry. Rather than leaving the underside flat and unconsidered, they were looking for a detail that would feel architectural, cohesive and elevated.

The Design Approach

The kitchen itself is finished in a rich American oak tone. In certain lighting it reads as deep and warm, while in brighter conditions it reveals the lighter, natural character of the timber.

To complement this palette, we supplied Flutto Ridge in American Oak, installed beneath the curved island bench and continued as a vertical feature on the adjoining wall.

This was not simply decorative. The goal was rhythm and continuity. The ridge profile introduces subtle shadow lines that bring movement to the cabinetry, while still remaining calm and refined.

The Curved Island Detail

One of the most striking elements of this kitchen is the curved island.

The client wanted the fluted detail to wrap seamlessly around the curve, maintaining clean lines without interruption. Flutto Ridge in American Oak allowed for exactly that, flowing with the contour of the island to create a sculptural focal point at the centre of the space.

Under natural light, the ridges catch soft highlights. In the evening, they deepen into a richer tone, creating a more intimate atmosphere.

It’s a small detail, but it transforms the island from a functional surface into a feature.

A Cohesive Feature Wall

To reinforce the design language, the same Flutto Ridge profile was applied vertically to a section of the kitchen wall.

This subtle repetition ties the room together. Rather than competing with the cabinetry, it enhances it by adding texture without overwhelming the space.

The result is a kitchen that feels truly cohesive from every angle.

Designed for Living

What makes this project special is not just the material choice, but how it supports the way the space is used.

The island becomes a place for morning coffee, shared meals, evening cocktails. The warmth of the oak softens the clean architectural lines, making the space feel welcoming rather than clinical.

Timber has a way of grounding a room. The American oak tone shifts beautifully throughout the day. Light and fresh in the morning, rich and ambient by night.

It’s a kitchen designed not only to be seen, but to be lived in.