Kitchen Case Study: Tips and Products that Can Bring Your Design to the Next Level

Designing a kitchen is a bit like solving a puzzle, eventually all the pieces come together and it all makes sense from both a visual as well as a functional perspective.  This new kitchen design in Wellington Florida is a great example of that. Today I'd like to share with you an inside peek at the process and how we got from drab to amazing in ten million easy steps.

White Shaker Cabinets,Style My Faucet, Kitchen Design, Kitchen Makeover

 

I jest, it was really only eight million.  Here's where we began.  Check out these before images.  As you can see the old kitchen was outdated and just didn't work from a layout point of view.  The challenge we faced was to create something light, modern and very user friendly for my client who loves to cook for her family.

Befores

First Things First: Layout Challenges

Kitchens generally work a lot better without too many angles so although we were stuck with the exterior angled walls, we could straighten out that peninsula.  Then there was the island in the center.  All the angles were affecting the usable storage inside so I wanted to square that up too.  Next up was that oppressive soffit at the top!  It was like a heavy weight pushing down on the kitchen.  Removing it would allow taller cabinets and a much more open feeling.  The refrigerator was crowded next to the stove so I really wanted to relocate it if possible.  Last but not least, where the fridge used to be is our new focal point,  a modern hood and beautiful reflective glass tile.

 

 

The above plan shows how it all panned out.  We accomplished all of our objectives.  The soffit was removed, peninsula reshaped with the addition of a beverage center, the island became a baking center with no angles and storage for a mixer lift.  We extended the pantry wall and created the perfect home for a new refrigerator and combination wall and microwave ovens with convenient counter space in between.

White Shaker Cabinets,Style My Faucet, Kitchen Design, Kitchen Makeover

Star Elements & The Power of Collaboration

I always say the best projects are great collaborations and that is exactly what we had here.  My client didn't think she knew what she wanted but she really did.  She gave me lots of feedback and clues as to what is most important to her and her family.  The result was an appliance package by Bosch including an induction cooktop, all wood white Shaker style cabinets by Holiday Kitchens and Brendan Donovan Furniture & Cabinet Co., an undermount Silgranit kitchen sink by Blanco and the Beale Touchless Kitchen Faucet by American Standard.  This was the first kitchen I've done using this particular faucet.  In exchange for the faucet, American Standard offered me the opportunity to participate in a really fun project called Style My Faucet.  Designers all over the country played too.  We had fun staging the Beale and got some great shots.  Flowers and veggies had already been beautifully featured so we did pasta! 

"The best advice I can give my clients is to invest in a quality faucet."

 

Beale Touchless Kitchen Faucet, AmericanStandard,StyleMyFaucet

 

The Beale Touchless Kitchen Faucet was very easy to install,  the battery for the  Selectronic hands-free sensor is conveniently located below in the cabinet.  You can opt to leave it on manual mode too if you prefer.  Just slide the sensor door on the front and you can operate with a wave of your hand.  This is so nice to have when you're preparing things like raw chicken, right? I was also impressed with the Dock-Tite spray head docking system.  It feels really nice and secure.  I've seen faucets that dangle when they're not supposed too.  Yuck.  The best advice I can give to my clients is to invest in a quality faucet.  I will definitely be specifying the Beale again because I am impressed with not only the quality but also the sleek  styling that works so well with contemporary and transitional designs, just like this one.

White Shaker Cabinets,Style My Faucet, Kitchen Design, Kitchen Makeover

 

There you have it.  It's a wrap.  Drop me a line  at artfulkitchensbyglo@gmail.com and let's get started on your kitchen!

 This is a sponsored blog post.  All editorial content is entirely my own opinions and perspectives.

 

 

KBIS2017 Part III-Exploring Surfaces

This is Part III of my KBIS2017 recap.  You can find Part I  here and Part II here

Ok where were we?  Ah yes, I believe I promised you something to do with rhino poop and a surprise inside the shower.  In Part III, the final installment of my Kitchen & Bath Industry Show (KBIS2017)  recap, I’m going to deliver just that as I share with you two really cool surface manufacturers  that are game changers in the world of design.  The first is from the tradition of Ripley’s Believe It or Not!

 

MohawkFlooring,KBIS2017

 

Mohawk Flooring, known largely for their carpet, actually manufactures a wide variety of products including tile, hardwood, laminate and luxury vinyl.  The star of their show this year was SmartStrand Silk Reserve carpet which MUST be felt to be believed. The story is not only about the ultimate in comfort and beauty, but also unbelievable cleanability.  

 

To test this new generation of carpeting they had a rhino, yes a rhinoceros, live on it for two weeks! That includes peeing, pooping and God knows what.  This experiment compared SmartStrand Silk Reserve to other leading carpets.  The results were impressive. With the Pet Protection Warranty there’s never any worry about a little occasional cat puke. Here’s a little video so you know I’m not lying.

 

                                                                                                                       

 

Not only did SmartStrand Silk Reserve stand up to the rhino test, it was also a welcome respite for the tired feet of 24 or so bloggers and social media influencers.  We got to enjoy the silky soft  experience at the Ritz, no less. It’s really really soft!

MohawkFlooring,SmartStrandSilkReserve,Carpet

 

Since we’re talking about cleaning, let’s move on the the shower.  That’s where Wilsonart comes in.  Wilsonart is a leader in engineered surfaces such as laminates, quartz, solid surfaces and even interesting wall paneling which is a look that has been so popular.

 

I love how they are always coming up with something new that is so relevant and on trend.  One such item is Wilsonart VDL Artfully Repurposed Woods (above left).  Yes these are laminates, no splinters here, soft as a baby’s butt (well nearly).  I digress. Let’s get back to the shower on show at KBIS2017.  This seamless laminate shower wall (below)  is easy to clean with no grout lines and they assure me it’s water friendly.  I also love the sleek contemporary look.

 

Wilsonart, KBIS2017,BlogTourKBIS

Wilsonart is also offering their own brand of quartz.  I often have clients who seek a pristine white counter top.  This one (Niwa Q1002) certainly fits the bill.   Quartz is a very popular choice these days because of it's durability and stain resistance. Check out their website here for more on the wide variety of products you can find at Wilsonart.

Wilsonart, WilsonartQuartz, BlogTourKBIS, KBIS2017, designhounds

 

There you have it!  Thank you so much to Modenus and all the sponsors of BlogTour KBIS.  It’s such a treat to have access to all this in depth knowledge that I can share with you.  All editorial content is entirely my own opinions and perspectives.

 

KBIS2017 Part II- Color Splash!

This is Part II of my KBIS2017 recap.  You can find Part I  here.

If you've read part one you know that I was off meeting old and new friends earlier this month at our big annual trade show known as KBIS2017.  One of the best perks of being on Modenus Blog Tour is always the people.  What a huge source of friends this whole blog adventure has been for me!  Now back to the trends you need to know. 

BlogTourKBIS, Modenus

One of the huge trends at the recent Kitchen & Bath Show (KBIS2017)  in Orlando was bold brilliant color. I saw bright color across all product lines including cabinets, appliances and even faucets.  Cabinet Manufacturer Wellborn was no exception.  This vibrant  green was a big hit and showcases their custom color options.   The Color Inspire program offers a broad selection of hues from Sherwin Williams, Benjamin Moore, and Valspar. The possibilities are only limited by your imagination. 

 

 

ColorInspireWellborn

Color was also the star of the show for me at Metrie, North America's largest solid wood and MDF moulding company.  These stunning pink doors are a part of their Then & Now Finishing Collections.  This is actually a great concept that allows you to take a boring space and make it sing with character.  They have curated perfectly coordinated mouldings and interior doors to create "the look".  The styles range from the cutting edge "Fashion Forward", to girly "French Curves", to Minimalism with "Pretty Simple".  There are even a few more.  It's an awesome option for designers as it saves time spent hunting for the right crown to go with the perfect base board etc.  It's a one stop shop for  beautiful millwork and moulding details.

Metrie,KBIS2017,BlogTourKBIS

 

 

 

Just think of the chic "chick pad" you could create with Metrie...and then there were shoes.  I'm sorry my attention wanders sometimes.  Who can blame me for loving these shoes worn by Christine DaCosta aka Glamamama.

Grohe,Essence semi pro faucet, KBIS2017

 

 

I've got more color!  Check out these faucets by Grohe.  This is the Essence Semi Pro Faucet, available April 2017.  Notice the extended spout for added convenience in the kitchen.  The display is showing limited edition brightly colored silicon hoses. Change your mind, change your faucet, just like a chameleon!

American Standard exhibited this smart faucet that actually measures water for you. Just think, it’s easy, accurate and environmentally friendly.  Turn the dial and you get the perfect amount every time.  So simple. Kudos to the team at American Standard for thinking of it.  Speaking of good ideas, what could be better than a self cleaning toilet? The ActiClean toilet features a turbo type flush system that they call VorMax, with a fully integrated self-cleaning system. The CleanCurveRim omits that rim cavity and holes inside the bowl where dirt gets trapped and EverClean antimicrobial surface helps everything stay clean longer.  Egaads!! I'm just the messenger but it's a good thing.  I'm all for minimal toilet cleaning time.

Modulus, DXV,KBIS2017,BlogTourKBIS

 

Another American Standard company, the luxury line DXV showed their Modulus line for the bath.  I loved the sensuous sculptural line of these vanity tops BUT how cool is this tray? it fits perfectly on the top and then tucks away in it’s own spot underneath when you’re done. Voilá!

   Guess what folks? I've got more. Stay tuned for KBIS III -Just a hint, it has to do with rhino poop and a surprise in the shower (but not together)

L                   

KBIS 2017 Countdown- Newest in Kitchen and Bath Design

I don’t know about you (actually I might) but I’m ready for a fresh new start so I’m welcoming 2017 with open arms.  I’m excited about all the new adventures in store. First up is the always inspiring and exciting Kitchen & Bath Industry Show (KBIS)

 

KBIS 2017

 

 

This year KBIS takes place in Orlando, Florida and will host 500+ leading brands in the kitchen and bath industry, including over 100 NEW companies.  Once again I am proud to be one of 24 design bloggers and social media influencers included in the Modenus Blog tour.  Modenus, in case you don’t know, is all about design connections.  Through their website and blog tours Modenus  connects design pros, brands, media and savvy homeowners.

 

Metrie, DXV, Lisa Mende

 

You can follow along as we provide “real time” coverage on Instagram, Twitter and FaceBook.  Just follow the hashtag #BlogTourKBIS

Wilsonart laminates

You can find me here on Instagram, Twitter and  Facebook.  Follow me if you haven't already.  This is a great way to find the perfect products and design details if you're thinking of a new kitchen or bath in the new year.

KBIS is where I source the latest industry designs, products and technology and bring them to my readers and clients. This trade show is a part of Design & Construction Week and takes place from January 10th -January 12fth at the Orange County Convention Center.  The Modenus Blog Tour is an all expense paid trip however I retain control over all editorial content. I only recommend products or services I  believe will be good for my readers and clients.