Designer Q&A with Juli Kokinovska
Published on
July 18, 2023 at 10:59:56 AM PDT July 18, 2023 at 10:59:56 AM PDTth, July 18, 2023 at 10:59:56 AM PDT
Juli Kokinovska from Ortenburg Interior Design won our Mood Competition for June. We speak to Juli about what inspired their mood board and how mixing and matching different finishes and styles can create unexpected harmonies in interiors.
Tell us a bit about the mood board. Where did you draw your inspiration and was it designed for a specific project?
A major influence on this mood board was the residence’s setting in gorgeous Boat Harbour, Port Stephens NSW. In creating the azure colour scheme, we took our cue from the sublime ocean views enveloping the property, while the reflective qualities of the chrome handles lend a dazzling effect to the interiors.
Would you base your overall design / styling around a specific kitchen handle or are handles an afterthought?
It really depends on the project. Sometimes we already have a specific handle style and colour in mind after a preliminary scan through our sample collection in the showroom – in which case the design follows on from this selection. Other times, it happens more organically as the joinery and finishes are selected.
Pictured is our Bellevue Appliance Pull
Are all-white, handle-less kitchens a thing of the past? What coloured cabinetry is here to stay?
While we are known for our bold colour choices, I think all-white still has its place - it’s how you use forms and textures to create an interesting and inviting space. With so many amazing handles to choose from nowadays, it’s not often that we’d design a kitchen completely without handles – certain sections maybe, but never totally handle-less.
When it comes to colours, natural usually stands the test of time, especially figured timber textures like walnuts and oaks in varying shades. These surfaces are incredibly versatile and work with a wide range of design styles and handles.
When using this mood board to style a project, what do you see as being the most prominent feature?
The chrome handles without question! Although we used some fairly attention-grabbing colours and textures in this mood board, the handles just crown the whole composition. We particularly love how the light behaves with each handle texture, be it scored, knurled, or smooth.
What materials and finishes do you like to use in your kitchen designs? Is there a design feature you tend to use regularly?
We love mixing different joinery profiles together, often with different finishes, to create unexpected harmonies and rich interior spaces. This can really help showcase the handles.
Newcastle Project
Do you just advise on styles / certain looks and how to achieve this or take control of the project styling right down to the products bought?
We generally take control of all aspects of a project, from the interior design and architecture down to fit out and accessory selection. Our clients often prefer a single point of reference for their projects to simplify the process, which is why we provide a complete end-to-end service.
What are some Momo Handle ranges you’re loving at the moment?
We’re absolutely loving all the new knurled brass handles from the Brighton, Bellevue, and Belgravia collections. Not only are the designs and colours gorgeously elegant, but they have a wonderfully solid feel to them as well, making it such a treat each time you open cabinetry doors. We can’t wait to use them all!
Do you have any upcoming projects featuring Momo Handles that we should look out for?
We’ve just finished a full renovation of an apartment in Newcastle CBD featuring Momo’s knurled brass appliance pull handles and Sussex round knobs, so definitely keep an eye out for that on our social media.
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and participating in our mood board competition.
Find Juli at ortenburginteriors.com