City Chic: Stylish Functional Kitchen Under $30K

Winner: Best Kitchen Under $30K – National & Canterbury

Proof that award-winning kitchens don’t always need a premium price tag, City Chic demonstrates how clever design can create a big impact on a modest budget. Designed with maximum functionality in mind, this kitchen features smart storage, a timeless layout, and thoughtful joinery choices that balance form with affordability.

Despite its lower cost bracket, City Chic delivers the same attention to detail and craftsmanship that defines every Finesse Joinery project.

Key features

Optimised workflow with a practical kitchen triangle for easy movement
Stylish finishes that elevate the space without overspending
Thoughtful details to maximise everyday usability and storage
Bespoke joinery crafted to fit seamlessly into the home

Button
Button
Button
Button
Button
Button
Button
Button
Button
Button
Button
Button
Button
Button

Why this project stands out

Winning Best Kitchen Under $30K at both National and Canterbury levels, City Chic highlights our ability to create kitchens that are accessible, practical, and beautiful. It’s a clear example of how Finesse Joinery’s design-led approach can achieve stunning results for homeowners at any budget.

< Older Post

Newer Post >

Our Joinery Services

Kitchens →

Laundries/Pantries/Sculleries →

Wardrobes →

Entertainment Units →

BOOK A FREE CONSULTATION

Modern kitchen with light wood cabinetry, stone countertops, and three stools.

Kitchens that work beautifully: the principles of award-winning kitchen design

3 November 2025

Here at Finesse Joinery in Christchurch, we’re in a celebratory mood. Our talented kitchen designers and Master Joiners have been recognised at a national level, winning prestigious Master Joiners awards for excellence in kitchen design, workmanship and expertise. These achievements are testament to the skills and passion of our team, who share a commitment to creating truly beautiful kitchens. However, true excellence goes far beyond appearance. A kitchen that works beautifully transcends fine materials and contemporary kitchen styles, it’s a space that feels effortless to use. At its heart, award winning kitchen design and joinery is about achieving harmony: where function, flow and form come together to create a room that makes your daily life easier; how you live, cook and entertain. As officially one of the best kitchen joinery specialists and kitchen designers in New Zealand, our philosophy centres on creating kitchens that are both practical and inspiring, while always remaining in budget. Below we explore the key design principles behind our beautiful kitchen designs , from workflow and storage to aesthetics and craftmanship. Whether you are looking for inspiration for a dream kitchen space or at the start of your kitchen renovation journey, these principles can help guide you. Function and flow: the foundation of every great kitchen design Finesse Joinery kitchen designers develop a deep understanding of how you will use your kitchen. The kitchen work triangle, between the oven, sink and fridge, remains a time-tested foundation. Keeping these key areas within a comfortable reach, unnecessary movement is kept to a minimum and a smooth workflow created. Our kitchen designers look beyond the work triangle to design work zones: defined areas for food prep, cooking, cleaning and storage. For example, scullery cabinets or a pantry cabinet would form part of the storage zone, while the kitchen island serves as a prep station, but also the social hub. Every home, family and lifestyle is individual, and the kitchen designs are tailored to meet your unique needs .