A couple created a spacious living area within their home by basing the design around a central island and kitchen sink. Mel and Glen Tomes showed nzherald.co.nz around their home which, the news provider noted, features an open-plan living area including a crisp white kitchen that is the hub of family life for the couple and their two children.The website observed that when the couple are preparing food around the stainless steel kitchen sink, they are still able to talk to their children who can sit on bar stools at the large island bench.It also noted that the arrangement is particularly suited to entertaining guests.We both like to cook, said Ms Tomes. So we designed the kitchen so if we had friends around we were still part of the action.Last week, Rob Nathan, group marketing manager at Media 10, argued that bold colours are the way forward for homeowners wishing to give their interiors and kitchens a new look.