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Cucina — A Kitchen Reimagined

European character without a complete renovation.

A Mediterranean-inspired kitchen concept demonstrating how antiques, European materials and considered details can transform an existing space without a complete renovation.

Note: Digital concept visualisation by Founders of Rome.

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The Transformation

  • Before

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  • Proposed concept

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The Thinking Behind the Transformation

  • The Brief

     A softer, more characterful kitchen with additional working space, without altering the existing cabinetry, flooring or structure unless essential to achieve the desired outcome. 

    A considered mix of old and new, rather than a room assembled from a catalogue.

  • Our Design Direction

    A Provençal Mediterranean kitchen with Italian influences. Warmth, texture and European character are introduced through antique furniture, architectural lighting, natural finishes and purposeful decorative details.

    The intention is a relaxed, layered interior where every piece has a reason for being there.
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Key Changes  - low effort but high impact

Venetian-Plaster Rangehood Detail - Subtle architectural refinement. A softly textured, off-white finish gives the existing rangehood introduces depth and organic texture.

Unlacquered Brass Tapware - natural brass that develops patina over time warmth, character and its evolving finish complements the aged copper, timber and stone with warmth and character.

Off-White Handmade-Style Tiles - the shine and irregularity creates interest, dimension + a calm backdrop that allows the timber, copper and brass to shine.

The Relaxed Roman Blind -  natural linen  with tone on tone tassel ends. Soft movement, romantic but polished.

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Shop The Cucina

19th Century Italian Pine Console

The anchor piece. Replaces the conventional kitchen table with a generous, character-filled work surface. Its architectural proportions introduce Italian heritage, Practical, beautiful and versatile.

19th Century Italian Pine Console19th Century Italian Pine Console
$8,100.00View product

Copper pot holding rolling pins

Get creative! Copper is not just for ccoking, pile it with herbs, rolling pins, hang it, load it with citrus - enjoy.

Antique Copper Pot with Iron Swing HandleAntique Copper Pot with Iron Swing Handle
$410.00View product

Olive branch urn

Large Antique French Multicolour-Glazed Terracotta UrnLarge Antique French Multicolour-Glazed Terracotta Urn
$430.00View product

White hydrangea urn

Rustic urn with white flowers on a wooden surface. French antique styling idea for urn. French Silvered Cast Iron Garden Urn Cachepot, circa 19th Century
$490.00View product

Antique French copper fish poacher Poissonniere

Use for herbs, utensils or floral Warmth, patina and reflection. Brass contrast works in perfectly.

Antique French copper fish poacher "Poissonnière”Antique French copper fish poacher "Poissonnière”
$395.00View product

Ceramic bowl

Coming soon from France. Sign up for arrival news.


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Antique Wooden Dough Bowl

Coming soon. Express your interest via our contact page.


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French Lantern Light

Special procurement from France. POA. Express interest: info@foundersofrome.co.nz. Email subject: French Lantern Light.


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French Lantern Light

Special procurement from France. POA. Express interest: info@foundersofrome.co.nz. Email subject: French Lantern Light.


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Classic French Confit pots & Jars

Earthy glazes and irregular forms bring colour, patina and Provençal heritage. Used for herbs, flowers or simply as sculptural objects.


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Herb pot


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Venetian-Plaster Rangehood Detail

A softly textured, off-white finish refines the existing rangehood, introducing depth, organic texture and subtle architectural character. Explore details like this as part of our styling consultation.


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Relaxed Roman Blind

A very relaxed Roman blind in a natural linen sheer, with tone-on-tone tassel ends. Soft movement, romantic but polished. Style suggestion.


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Unlacquered Brass Rail & Vintage Copper

A classic cucina-inspired detail, bringing warmth, interest and purpose to the kitchen. An unlacquered brass rail paired with vintage copper creates a softly patinated glow. Explore details like this as part of our styling consultation.


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Off-White Handmade-Style Tiles

The shine and irregularity creates interest, dimension and a calm backdrop that allows the timber, copper and brass to shine. Style suggestion.


View product

Unlacquered Brass Tapware

Natural brass that develops patina over time. Its evolving finish complements the aged copper, timber and stone with warmth and character. Style suggestion.


View product