Designed around the space. Handcrafted from reclaimed Rimu
This kitchen was designed and built by JKL as a completely custom piece, created specifically for the existing home and the way the client wanted to use the space.
The starting point was reclaimed native Rimu, salvaged from an old shed that had been demolished on the property. Rather than opting for standard manufactured cabinetry, the client wanted something built in a more traditional way, using solid timber and time-honoured joinery methods to create a kitchen made to last.
Designed and built onsite
JKL took care of the design, project management and construction of the kitchen, using SketchUp modelling and hand-drawn detailing to develop the layout before building the cabinetry onsite.
Every cabinet was made specifically for the room, allowing the kitchen to fit the existing floor plan efficiently and make the best use of the available space. The Rimu was used for the cabinet frames, paired with high-quality poplar plywood for the end panels and shelving.
The client came to the project with a very specific vision and wanted to be closely involved throughout the process. Through regular communication, JKL was able to translate that vision into a practical, highly considered design and refine the finer details as the kitchen took shape.
Craftsmanship in the details
Traditional timber joinery leaves nowhere to hide. Many of the connections are exposed in the finished kitchen, meaning every joint needed to be carefully crafted and finished.
Small details became particularly important: consistent gaps between doors and drawers, perfectly aligned face panels, smooth operation and clean, precise junctions throughout.
It is the kind of work that takes more time than mass-produced cabinetry, but the result is something completely individual to the home.
“We love one-off custom projects that require a high level of craftsmanship and skill.”
— Kalem, JKL Architectural Builders
The finished result
The finished kitchen combines the warmth and natural variation of reclaimed Rimu with a clean, highly considered layout. The contrast and colour of the timber became one of JKL’s favourite elements of the finished space.
Most importantly, the kitchen delivered on the client’s original vision: something completely individual, beautifully crafted and made to last. The client was thrilled with the finished result.
For JKL, the project reflects the type of work the team enjoys most: one-off pieces that require patience, accuracy and a genuine level of craftsmanship.
