2018 was a year of fun and exciting projects which challenged and sparked my creativity! White kitchens continued to be the hot ticket sometimes with an artful mix of natural wood or with deep rich blues.
I call this the "new traditional kitchen". I had fun working with HW Interiors on this one.
There were difficult situations but always solutions. This video gives you a snapshot of the vast variety of spaces and projects that came my way throughout the year. When you work with me I create these 3D renderings in Chief Architect Interiors X10 so you can get a sense of the space because visuals are everything! I am deeply grateful to my clients for placing their trust in me. Wishing all my readers the best in 2019. Maybe this will be the year we create your new space! xoxo
Every now and then it's fun and inspiring to venture away from the drawing board to get out and about. I didn't have to travel far for my latest adventure which took me to the International Contemporary Furniture Fair (ICFF) Florida.
ICFF South Florida 2018
This small tradeshow was held at the Fort Lauderdale Convention Center December 4-6. The next ICFF happens May 19-22 at the Javits Center in New York City. It was clear to me at once that the theme for this year was materials. Whether it was innovations, original usage, mixing, texture etc. it was all about materials and combinations. Speaking of materials, there were three separate exhibits showcasing natural wood with resin furniture and "live edge" tables. Vendors were global with strong European as well as domestic representation. I attended on opening day and exhibitors were eager to chat and show off their wares. They say a picture is worth a thousand words, If that is true, just think what a video is worth! That is why I had great fun creating this visual recap of ICFF for you. Tell me what your favorites are and let's create something together!! xoxo
For a complete list of vendors exhibiting at ICFF South Florida click here.
Every time I think I've seen it all I'm challenged to create a kitchen design that seems impossible! Such is the case with this recent project. This home is located in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida and features not only a stunning view but also the strangest shaped kitchen! Sometimes I wonder what architects are thinking.
coastal kitchen watercolor render blue island chief architect kitchen design
Step 1- Let there be walls
(to scale and correctly angled)
I can't even begin to design until I can get the walls drawn to scale. I had a physical blueprint which (after some quick research) I was able to trace over in my design program (Chief Architect). Once I did this I discovered those angles are 30 and 60 degrees, not the typical 45! There was no possibility of changing the shape of this kitchen.
blue print kitchen with angles
Step 2- Embrace the Space
One thing I have learned is that you will never win by trying to fight the space you're designing. Honor it, whatever it is, if you can't change it. That is the only way to end up with a design that is timeless and looks like it has always "lived" in the space. In this case, that means embracing the angled main wall while allowing ample and efficient flow.
Step 2- How to make it better
Once I had the walls accurately represented I evaluated the current layout keeping my client in mind. He loves to cook and he and his girlfriend love to entertain. Here are my observations:
-Cabinets are too low, not taking advantage of the high ceiling and limiting storage
-The big POINT on the island has to go! That just jumped right out at me and called for correction
-We are in need of an update and new appliances that are up to the task of my client's cooking endeavors
-The shape of the island does allow for lots of storage but also lots of walking. The sink is pretty far from the main wall.
-With the boat docked outside and observing everything else about the home I knew my clients' style is casual, Florida-Coastal and they are much more "comfortable" than contemporary.
a boat in the back with pool and canal palm beach gardens
Step 3- The Solution
The first thing I did was the back wall. I knew it had to accommodate the refrigerator and the new wall oven my client selected. The fridge and stove were already there so no need to reinvent the wheel. Remember it saves money when you can keep your major appliances in the same, or close to the same location. In the new design cabinets are now eight and a half feet high plus crown molding. The upper, hard to access area, features glass doors to add a bit of style and aesthetic appeal which incidentally the homeowner mentioned he wanted. This is the perfect spot for showcasing a collection and you can change the flavor by changing the contents when the spirit moves you. Versatility is always an important aspect of my designs. We've also got generous counter space next to the fridge, on each side of the stove and next to the ovens, a must! That was the easy part.
white kitchen Palm Beach Gardens coastal style white cabinets blue accent kitchen design
Now for that island. Hmmm. Since I'm updating that means I'm simplifying. I'll honor that angle but I think simplicity will calm the "angle noise". It's a popular trend these days to keep an island all at one height but I didn't think it was the right solution for this project. It turns out I was right and my client was so relieved! This island is really a serious cleanup and prep space and with such an open space a little buffer was needed. The raised bar also makes me think of the captain behind the wheel, it's sort of boat-like. Pulling the island closer to the main wall (still allowing 48") not only reduces the chef's steps but discourages unwanted traffic from congregating behind the island and getting underfoot. Now our island contains all the essentials but, not gonna lie, we've lost a little storage. To compensate I added a section of full height cabinets to balance out the kitchen. Glass panes at top reference those on the main wall. We're keeping these at 15" deep to keep the space open. Another benefit of shallow tall cabinets is that you will do just fine with adjustable shelves whereas, in a deeper, 24"cabinet, you'll probably need roll outs or stuff gets lost and is hard to access in the back. Roll outs really add to the price of your cabinets too.
Step 4- More About Those Aesthetics
Now that the layout is solved I think, what can I do to make this kitchen design stand out and fit my client's personality? A deep nautical blue island and coordinating hood of course! I also loved the idea of creating a spot for an ocean scene front and center on the hood itself. This is a great place to add a painting you love and, again, you can change it up! Voila
awkward angle kitchen floor plan view kitchen design
What do you think of this kitchen design? Are there any elements here you can apply to your own situation? This project is now underway and I look forward to sharing the outcome!
Naturally, I focus a lot on the kitchen including cabinetry and all the other components but one way to really personalize your heart of the home and give it a fresh look is with your dining table. More and more we are seeing open kitchens that incorporate dining rooms. If you are on a budget and are opting for stock cabinets which can be rather limited in materials and design the perfect dining table choice could be your answer. Even if your styling is more contemporary a lovely vintage dining table can make for a unique focal point.Dining tables can and, in my opinion, should lend contrast to your kitchen in some way especially if you have an open floor plan. Let me share with you a few tips on how to select the right size, shape and style for your dining table or breakfast table.
dining table for ten modern natural wood table mid century modern dining chairs with upholstery in blue white wainscot panels on wall light gray faux finishes
Size Matters
First things first, it has to fit and you'll need enough space to move around your dining table with ease. This means that if there is a wall behind a chair you'll need a minimum of 36" to move in and out comfortably. 42" clear on all sides is preferable. One seat requires about 24" in width so that will determine how many chairs you can fit. How wide the chair itself also makes a difference and, of course, armless is best if you're looking to maximize seating. Tight quarters nearly always work best with round tables and if you have a bar I suggest stools with an adjustable height option so they can double as extra dining table chairs if necessary.
round glass top dining table with natural wood base and woven rattan dining chairs natural wood console mid century modern style
The Look & Feel
Once you have the size just right you'll want to select a style that will take it from table to show stopper. The trick is in contrast. Dining tables should stand out from the surroundings but it's also lovely if there is at least one element that ties it to the room. For example, in the photo above, the table base is a different color stain and the chairs are entirely different but its the beautiful wood grain that makes it work. This room is all about the organic color palette, natural materials, and clean modern lines. All together this ensemble says Mid Century magic!
Farmhouse Charm
This modern farmhouse look is huge at the moment. Below the deep rich finish of the top contrasts and stands out but look how perfectly it works in the room. Note also how the beautiful glass globes on the light fixtures repeat the shape of the turned legs on the table and bench. The bench look goes right along with the farmhouse style and is great for maximizing seating.
Baluster turned leg dining table by James + James white legs with dark wood top matching bench seat and dining chairs white shiplap on wall glass globe pendant lights
Elegant Coastal
This elegant coastal design by Amy Tyndale features a wood stained dining table. The contrasting white chairs tie the dining area to the kitchen and trim molding. Also check out the repeating curvy X motif in the chairs, light fixtures and candle holders on the table. It's the details that come together to create one amazing design statement.
amy tyndale design coastal dining room with natural wood dining table, white dining chairs, traditional cabinets with glass doors wine coolers built-in coffee maker large white pendant lights with chrome accents wood floor
Do you have a dining table dilemma? Please do share!! Email me at Gloria@ArtfulKitchens.net and I just might feature your question and share my ideas for you right here at Artful Kitchens. Cheers!
When Nakturnal offered to sponsor me to dish on dining rooms it was a natural fit! I received compensation as a thank you for my participation. All content and images reflect my own personal viewpoint.
This year my birthday coincided with Design Week so I thought what the heck, it's time for another On the Road episode, this time to the Big Apple for ICFF. The International Contemporary Furniture Fair was held at the Jacob K. Javits Center May 20-23 and is known as the North American platform for Luxury International Design showcasing the latest in exclusive interiors, contemporary design and high-end furniture. However, it's much more than furniture. Naturally, I wanted to home in on the latest and greatest for the kitchen and bath. Read on to see my discoveries.
I found lots of beautiful plumbing fixture booths featuring all types of sculptural free standing tubs and faucets in the widest variety of metal finishes ever! Admittedly the innovative furniture was the star of the show with an emphasis on bentwood designs and mid-century modern styling. I also loved the "International aspect and one of my favorite sections was the Hand Made in Germany booth. There was a lot of Bauhaus inspired design and I especially loved a minimalist work center. So clever! Push play and you'll see what I found at the show.
At the same time another show, Wanted Design, was happening right down the street in the Terminal Stores located in an up and coming area by the waterfront. The venue was old warehouse chic and the show was even younger and edgier than the main event at ICFF. There was a global focus here as well.
I found the Mexican contingent filled with creative and visionary youth. There was product design, jewelry, furniture and even a line of bar ware based on Mexican cocktails made out of sustainable materials! That's quite specific and remarkable, don't you think? For now, these are one of a kind but I think it's a testament to creative thinking in the future.
Wanted Design was also the venue for Modenus Talks sponsored by Lixil and hosted by Modenus and Design Milk. This regular series of talks is held in different locations usually in conjunction with trade events. They are always so informative and relevant. The one we attended was Sustaining the Sustainable Home moderated by Modenus Media CEO Veronika Miller and featuring materials expert Grace Jeffers. It's always great to have more knowledge about the materials I am specifying and to educate the public about safety and sourcing. Do you know the number one thing you can do to reduce pollution in the home? I'll tell you because you'll never guess, It's removing your shoes at the front door. Your shoes track in not only dirt but also carbon monoxide! Who knew? Honestly even though some really relevant information was shared it was also very scary.
If you know me you know that no trip to NY is complete without an "art fix". My savvy New Yorker sister and brother-in-law suggested the Noguchi Museum which did not disappoint. Noguchi was a stone sculptor among other things. He's also famous for those fabulous paper lamps. It was very inspiring and I even bought the T-shirt. I'll be making another video about my Noguchi Museum visit. Subscribe below and stay tuned. Part two of the art experience was The Museum Of Art & Design which is a satisfying combination of craft and fine art. This was my second visit and I must say my favorite part is the sixth floor where you can see and talk to artists in residence. It was quiet on this rainy afternoon but I did meet textile artist Emily Oliveira.
.All in all it was a great trip topped off by a birthday dinner courtesy of my dear sister and brother in law at Shuka in the Village. OMG what an amazing feast! Executive chef Ayesha Nurdjaja has a knack for flavorful combinations which feel Middle Eastern to me and are described as Eastern Mediterranean. The service was top notch too, even though it was packed for a Tuesday evening. Maybe everyone knew it was my birthday ;) Back to work now but at least I have some great memories to savor.
Do you get frustrated looking at all the beautiful images on Houzz and Pinterest? If only, right? The good news is you don't always have to shoot the budget to have a kitchen that is your own unique design statement. This means you're going to have to forgo the temptation to slavishly emulate the trend of the moment in exchange for investing in a look that is authentically your own. Yes! Inject your own personality, make it versatile to allow for your moods and you will have something timeless that will always give you joy. Read on and I'll show you how.
5 Ways to Make Any Kitchen Your Own Stylish Sanctuary
Own Your Color
A favorite color is one way to create a personal statement in your kitchen. Perhaps you embrace all color bright an bold. If this is your cup of tea allow yourself open space and glass front cabinets to show your true color in all its glory. I recommend keeping the fixed elements such as flooring and countertops neutral so you can play more with color in ways that are versatile. This would include paint, dishes, artwork and decorative items. A nice crisp white is always a great backdrop to vibrant hues. If you are an adventurous soul because that's your personality, create a focal point like this beautiful back splash using your favorite color. Just keep it over one area such as the stove. Less is more and you don't want to dilute the power of the statement, right?
5 Ways to Make Any Kitchen Your Own Stylish Sanctuary
5 Ways to Make Any Kitchen Your Own Stylish Sanctuary
"Artful detail can literally be art such as paintings and sculpture but it can also be beautiful hand made utilitarian items, family treasures or books."
Embrace Your Architecture
Believe me, I have tried to "correct". Sometimes you can but often it just doesn't work. I have had much better results when I embrace the fixed conditions I am faced with when creating a new design. These issues can include angles, bump outs, ceiling height differences and last but not least the age and era in which a home was built. Your space should look like it belongs. This happens when you match the style of your design to your home. In fact, I always try to look for clues such as arches and fixed architectural elements that I will repeat in the design. If your kitchen "goes with" your home it will always be right.
5 Ways to Make Any Kitchen Your Own Stylish Sanctuary
In this kitchen which you can read more about here, we were stuck with some of the angles (yes there were more) as they are exterior walls. What we did do was move the refrigerator. It used to be where the hood is. It opens up space and gives us a focal point. We also eliminated angles on both the island and the peninsula. Now my client has a kitchen that makes sense and functions perfectly for her lifestyle.
Go Within
The way you customize your cabinet interiors is always based on the way you live. Think about it. Is there one particular item that just doesn't have a home with enough space in your kitchen? It could be food storage containers, pots or even trash! It's different for everybody. Even if you have a small kitchen you can maximize function. There are solutions.
5 Ways to Make Any Kitchen Your Own Stylish Sanctuary
If you're short (like me;-) or you're just short on upper cabinets, this drawer insert featuring dish pegs can be used to customize your dish storage. Food storage containers are so necessary but can be a PIA, if you know what I mean. You may even be able to retrofit one of your cabinets with one of these handy pull out organization systems by Revashelf. These are just two examples but there are so many options.
5 Ways to Make Any Kitchen Your Own Stylish Sanctuary
Customize Work Centers
Every kitchen has a work center for food prep, clean up and cooking. Sometimes in small kitchens, they overlap but those are the basics. Add your own as needed to customize your kitchen. Think media center or beverage center to house your coffee or tea stash and accoutrements. Those are two popular ones that come to mind. How about a pet center? It could be as easy as designating a certain space or cabinet and tricking out the inside. It can be planned in a new kitchen or created in your existing space.
5 Ways to Make Any Kitchen Your Own Stylish Sanctuary
A media center in a drawer! Measure your devices and make sure you have enough USB outlets and you're good to go. Sometimes it's nice to put the phone away. Who knows what could happen ;)
5 Ways to Make Any Kitchen Your Own Stylish Sanctuary
This is WoodMode's version of a pet center. They call it a Pet Parlor and you can create this with most cabinetry
Artful Detail
Artful detail can literally be art such as paintings and sculpture but it can also be beautiful hand made utilitarian items, family treasures or books. If you have the room I encourage you to try and leave some open space to display such items and change them out as the mood strikes you. This is perhaps the easiest way to make a neutral space very personal and joyful to be in.
5 Ways to Make Any Kitchen Your Own Stylish Sanctuary
Many kitchens have a wall on at least one end which is a perfect place for a small gallery of paintings, floating shelves or one big piece of art.
5 Ways to Make Any Kitchen Your Own Stylish Sanctuary
These hand-carved spoons could be considered "working sculpture" in my book. Speaking of books, I think they enhance every space. I love my well-worn cookbooks that probably contain bits of all the meals cooked from them!
5 Ways to Make Any Kitchen Your Own Stylish Sanctuary
This is a home run for me books + art!! I love it and if you do too we'd probably get along :)
COMING SOON!
My quarterly newsletter is coming soon. See what I've been up to in my real life Palm Beach County projects along with new products and where you can shop locally for the best selections and value. Subscribe below so I can keep you in the loop! xoxo
