Queensland-based firm Darren James Interiors reveal why exceptional construction and quality are essential ingredients in the kitchen.
Darren James Interiors CEO and creative director Darren James has a firm grasp on premium finishes. With a professional background as a licenced builder, cabinet maker and interior designer, Darren understands the complexities required to deliver tailored, enduring designs. Having won a slew of awards in this category, we explore Darren’s approach to kitchens, focusing on why durability is always at the forefront of the hub of the home.
Produced in partnership with Blum
Bayview One by Darren James Interiors features Austaron Surfaces benchtops, Sussex tapware, Blum LEGRABOX drawers and Blum AMBIA-LINE inner dividing systems, Schweigen silent rangehood and a L’aviva home wall sconce.
Client & Composition
Darren acknowledges that every kitchen project is unique and designed primarily for busy families and young professionals. “Depending on the client, we adapt to different styles, needs and architecture,” he says. “No two kitchens are the same, and there is no repetition. We focus on creating bespoke designs suited to the individual homeowner”.
The layout of the kitchen is key. “Some say ‘form follows function’, but we believe both are equally important. Natural light, storage and ease of use are all essential elements. Expert design must tick all the boxes even before aesthetics,” he says. “Regardless of the kitchen style, one constant in every project is the integrity of the joinery, cabinetry, internals, and finishes.”
The adjoining scullery features oak look Farmers Doors cabinetry, Blum LEGRABOX drawers and a Zipwater zip hydrotap.
Materiality
Darren James Interiors has a strong inclination toward natural materials in the kitchen for their tactile qualities and timeless longevity – especially when designing for families. “When it comes to benchtops, we commonly specify natural stone slabs,” Darren maintains. As seen in the Bayview One project, Darren has a strong preference for natural matt, textured materials with his joinery. Timber, metal and 2pac hardened paint finishes are often included for their robustness, longevity and maintenance.
The Blum LEGRABOX drawers, Blum AMBIA-LINE inner dividing system and Blum AMBIA-LINE accessories with optional personalised designer branding.
“I have specified Blum throughout my entire career and have even had the pleasure of visiting their manufacturing plant. I firmly believe Blum has the most superior soft close mechanisms in the world.”
– Darren James
Design Details
Darren supports Australian designers and manufacturers wherever possible – particularly with tapware and lighting. “It means we can support smaller designers while also injecting individual character into a kitchen space.” Among Darren’s go-to tapware firms are Sussex, Astrawalker and Brodware. For larger kitchen appliances, Darren looks to German and United States-based brands including Gaggenau, Liebherr, Wolf, Sub Zero and Miele, as well as Schweigen silent rangehoods.
Storage
True to Darren’s philosophy – ensuring durability is synonymous with quality – he creates designs that are aesthetically pleasing and built to last. “For this reason, we always specify Blum. Their products have a warranty of 20 years and are the most superior soft close mechanisms for drawers and doors in the world,” he says.
Darren regularly specifies Blum drawers and lift systems. In particular, Darren says the Blum LEGRABOX drawers are a favourite due to their slimline walls, maximum depth and storage capacity. “Their sleek look enhances the contemporary aesthetic of our projects,” he says. “We love pairing the Blum Orion Grey LEGRABOX drawers with their CLIP top BLUMOTION hinges in Onyx Black and the Blum SERVO-DRIVE for pull-out systems.”
For Darren, every product within the brand is efficient and considered. “This ensures ease of use for both the installer and the homeowner for timeless enjoyment,” he affirms.
Darren James Interiors co-owners Darren and Elissa James
