From Magazine to Masterpiece: Lisa Adams’ Stunning Kitchen Renovation
Ever imagined stepping into a kitchen straight out of a magazine, where function and style dance in perfect harmony? Lisa Adams’ stunning Cape Town home exemplifies the power of this combination. But as the Founder and Creative Director of Against the Grain Interior Design firm, it is no surprise that Lisa created such a showstopper. And the heart of the project? Infinity’s captivating Ocean Blue surfaces. Join us as we explore this inspiring space…

A Dream Kitchen Takes Shape
This kitchen seamlessly blends modern and traditional aesthetics. Imagine deep blue shaker doors, whispering tales of timeless elegance, set against the sleek, contemporary canvas of the Infinity Ocean Blue countertops. The overall design is sophisticated and inviting, perfect for both everyday use and entertaining.
Lisa faced the challenge of transforming a lackluster kitchen into a showstopper. By rearranging the layout and incorporating a larger island, she created a more spacious and functional space.
The Infinity Ocean Blue surfaces were the key to achieving the desired look and functionality. The striking color and pattern instantly elevate the kitchen’s design, adding a touch of luxury and drama. Plus, they’re incredibly durable and easy to maintain, making them a standout choice for any kitchen.


A passion for Interior Design
My interior design journey began in 2003, when I was assisting my husband with his kitchen design business. I quickly realized my passion for creating beautiful and functional spaces. Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to work on a variety of projects, from large-scale residential renovations to commercial spaces. I love the challenge of transforming a space into something truly special, and the satisfaction of seeing a client’s vision come to life.
Against the Grain making waves
Against the Grain is our Durban-based kitchen design firm known for its timeless and functional designs. We blend classic and modern elements, using high-quality materials. I personally love natural materials like wood and stone. While I appreciate modern trends, I focus on creating timeless designs that will stand the test of time. I believe in using white, textures, and wood to create stunning kitchens. I love it when clients trust my adventurous spirit, allowing us to explore bolder colours like the dark blue or greens used in my Cape Town kitchen.


From Durban to Cape Town
While my Durban home has a more colonial feel with herringbone oak floors, white kitchens, and Congo cream walls, I’ve opted for a slightly different aesthetic in my Cape Town space. I believe that a holiday home should feel like a home away from home, so I’ve decorated them with personal touches and unique finds from my travels.
This home, which is also planned to be a holiday rental, features a blend of modern and vintage elements, with a focus on comfort and style. I’ve incorporated local art, antiques, and unique pieces to give each space a distinct personality. The goal was to create a welcoming and inviting atmosphere where guests can truly relax and enjoy their stay.
Timeless yet contemporary
Shaker-style doors, hand-painted in a deep blue, add a timeless touch, while the sleek Infinity Ocean Blue countertops provide a contemporary edge. The overall design is sophisticated and inviting, perfect for both everyday use and entertaining. To complement the dark blue doors, we painted the walls in a matching PVA shade. Recognizing the emerging trend towards darker woods, we incorporated walnut top units into the kitchen for a richer, more luxurious feel. A beautiful dresser unit with pocket doors, crafted from solid walnut, adds a touch of elegance and functionality. The island, equipped with underfloor heating, seats four and serves as the heart of the home on cozy winter nights.


Incorporating Infinity Surfaces
It just elevated it to a new level. The safe option would have been to do a white kitchen, with one of your white tops and leave the walls dark, but by taking the risk of using the Ocean Blue, it turned a very ordinary kitchen into a ‘wow’ kitchen. Everyone who walks in literally says “Wow, those tops!”
If you are brave enough to use a dark busy top, don’t use it on a light cupboard. Take a colour or element from that dark top, and make the cupboards dark, so that the top becomes the feature.
Infinity is great to use as you can plan the pattern in your top template layout, which I did so that the patterns down onto the tops matched. We used the 12mm and built it up to 30mm on the bases and then pattern matched the 6mm splashbacks to suit. We also used infinity on the bathroom cabinets and the upstairs bedside tables. Those palettes where all neutrals with white, so white was the obvious choice up here. The outside braai area, is also your weather resistant infinity which was bullnosed to match the concrete bench detail.


Lisa envisioned a kitchen that would WOW everyone. Infinity Surfaces made her dream a reality. These durable, heatproof porcelain slabs are easy to clean and perfect for busy kitchens. Their sleek design complements any style. Lisa’s stunning renovation proves that a beautiful and functional kitchen is within reach. Explore Infinity’s colour range and transform your kitchen today.
To book Lisa’s Modern Coastal Retreat Click here
Many thanks to Calzan Creations and Against the Grain Cabinet Co
