Island State of Mind

Haldane’s new modular Galapagos outdoor kitchen island redefines alfresco entertaining, transforming meal preparation into an artful and social experience.

WORDS Gina Dionisio PHOTOS Emma Jude Jackson

Debuted during Cape Town Furniture Week 2025, Haldane‘s new outdoor kitchen island – Galapagos – sets a new benchmark for alfresco entertaining.

“The Galapagos concept takes cues from indoor kitchen island trends, transforming outdoor entertaining and meal prep into a communal, convivial experience,” says Haldane Martin, furniture designer and founder of Haldane.

The new luxury outdoor kitchen island is ideal for both residential and commercial spaces, thanks to its modular design. The Galapagos easily complements pre-existing built-in braai areas, combining modules integrating a variety of outdoor appliances (such as under-counter refrigeration, gas grill and gas hob, prep bowl and mixer) to create a sophisticated hub for entertainment and storage.  

Every detail of the Galapagos has been carefully considered. It boasts a weather-resistant stainless-steel frame, wrapped in powder-coated aluminium cladding and door fronts, and topped with a sleek 20mm carbon-neutral Dekton porcelain countertop.

“It’s a durable synthesis of luxury and utility,” says Danielle Martin. “For Haldane’s inaugural showroom unit, our team chose a three-colour palette – terra brown, pastel turquoise and cream, taking inspiration from the vibrant colours of the blue-footed booby, a marine bird native to the Galápagos Islands.” The island-inspired naturalist Charles Darwin’s theories on evolution. “As a designer, I’ve always been fascinated by evolution – natural, cultural, technological and social. For me, design is an evolutionary process, and the Galapagos collection reflects this ethos,” says Haldane Martin. 

The eye-catching modular kitchen islands are available in 25 powder-coating colours and 10 stone finishes, with countertops of varied depths that cater for seating or wall placement. This latest collection underpins Haldane’s commitment to cutting-edge design. | haldane.co.za

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