Through their conscious material selections, Kara Kennedy of DC8 Studio and Theo Sismanellis of Mint Kitchen Group have each won ForestOne’s Specified Responsibly EuroCucina Trade Competition for the month of July. From their use of EGGER’s wood-based decor products, Kara and Theo have gone in the draw for a chance to win the 2024 Grand Prize of a trip for two to EuroCucina in Milan, Italy.
By employing EGGER’s wood products, Kara and Theo have elevated each of their projects through clever specification and sustainable design. Guided by ForestOne representatives, as well as the desire to use more sustainable materials, the winners exemplify diligent and responsible specification. For his project, Ascot Vale, Theo employed the EGGER Vicenza Oak in many areas, while Kara used EGGER’s Natural Halifax Oak for her project Stockland Armstrong Creek; the respective designs allowed the winners to implement positive changes for end users.
Engaged by Stockland Halcyon to rejuvenate the Victorian House library for its over-55s land lease communities, Kara from DC8 Studio designed the external and internal colour schemes. Due to the project’s location in the outskirts of the city, Kara took inspiration from Port Philip Bay, Dandenong Ranges and Mount Macedon as well as regional areas. “Each colour scheme has its own distinct flavour,” says Kara. As such, the city aspect of the colour scheme consisted of more refined and contemporary choices, with a classic dark and white theme. Meanwhile, other spaces featured a softer palette, consisting of light greys and washed-out timbers or warmer tones and muted greens. “We specified EGGER not only for its highly sustainable, eco-conscious properties but also for its beautifully coloured and textured selection of products,” says Kara. Kara chose EGGER’s Natural Hamilton Oak, White Halifax Oak, Natural Halifax Oak and Tobacco Halifax Oak to complement her colour schemes.
As the selection of products for the material palette played a crucial role in the design process, particularly the timber elements, Kara knew she wanted each colour scheme to have its own striking timber feature that worked well with the overall theme. Due to this, EGGER woodgrains were selected, as the products revealed a “unique timber hue and texture in a very elegant and contemporary way,” explains Kara. As DC8 Studio aims to design better places for people, Kara’s selection of EGGER products complements the company’s ethos. “When specifying products, we prefer to purchase from companies that share our values,” she says. “And when it comes to being eco-friendly and environmentally responsible, choosing which products to purchase is important.”
“We specified EGGER not only for its highly sustainable, eco-conscious properties but also for its beautifully coloured and textured selection of products,” says Kara.
For Ascot Vale, Theo completed a full renovation of an original period-style dwelling and created an extension that radiated a more modern aesthetic. For the renovation and contemporary extensions, Theo employed EGGER’s 18-millimetre Woodgrain Laminate Board for “the entire kitchen, walk-in-pantry, family room, main bathroom and ensuite,” he says. Additionally, the EGGER Vicenza Oak was used alongside an “impressive mixture of EGGER of woodgrains,” he continues. Focused on delivering a sustainable design, Theo reasons that it is crucial for several reasons “including environmental preservation, resource efficiency and long-term viability.”
Considering ecological concerns when renovating a space, Theo chooses to use sustainable building materials. “[We] look for products with recycled content, such as reclaimed wood or recycled metal,” he says, “and [we also] consider using locally sourced materials to reduce transportation-related emissions.” Additionally, Theo also looks at natural lighting, landscaping, smart technology and longevity when designing, renovating or adding extensions. With the help of ForestOne, Theo was able to visit the Melbourne showroom, which offered the opportunity to see and experience the products before selection. Furthermore, “All the staff have a passion for their products and their service is next to none,” he says.
For Ascot Vale, Theo completed a full renovation of an original period-style dwelling and created an extension that radiated a more modern aesthetic.
Though working on vastly different projects, both Theo and Kara have chosen EGGER materials to complement their work and leave a positive mark by specifying eco-friendly materials. Assisted by their informed representatives, the winners were able to specify consciously and, as such, complete their designs with respect to their clients and the environment.
Author: Brett Winchester
Photography: Cieran Murphy | https://cieranmurphy.com/
Photography: Tim Allen | https://www.timallenphoto.net/
DC8 Studio | https://dc8studio.com/
Mint Kitchen Group | https://www.mintkitchengroup.com.au/
