Induction Cooking Within Reach

One of today's most exciting technologies for the kitchen can be found in electro magnetics.  I feel like the dad in The Graduate when he sagely whispers into Benjamin's ear "plastics"! Ok I'm dating myself but truthfully it was an old movie when I saw it for the first time.  Back to the kitchen, the electro magnetics I'm talking about is induction cooking.  Whenever I bring this up to my clients they invariably say, "isn't that the thing where you need special pots"?

You certainly do not need new pots IF they pass the test.  Simply grab a magnet and if it sticks to the bottom of your pot you're good to go.  That's it. Some work and some don't. Now if you're splurging on a new kitchen or stove perhaps a new set of pots is in order anyway, yes?  

History of Induction Cooking

Induction cooking technology was actually first introduced  at the 1933 World's Fair in Chicago.  It became available to homeowners in the seventies but you probably never heard about it because, well frankly, it was a fail.  Kinks were resolved as the technology continued to advance in Europe and Asia. Then several years ago induction cooktops were back and they've been gaining popularity in the luxury market every since.  In fact, Ryan DeGraffenreid, Territory Sales Manager for Florida, Latin America and the Caribbean for Subzero-Wolf, ventures to say that when considering electric vs induction their clients are choosing induction most of the time!

Why Induction?

The big reasons to go with the big "I" are safety, ease of maintenance and cooking efficiency.  Since your pot only heats up where it makes contact with the burner you're a lot less likely to get burned, plus all your energy goes into cooking your food instead of it being expelled into the air.  In fact, with induction, 84-90% of energy goes into your cooking as opposed to 44- 55% for gas, the least efficient. Electric falls somewhere in between.  Induction cooking is also a bit quicker.  It takes about 4 minutes to boil water with induction.  It's about 7 minutes for electric and 8 for gas. If your pot does boil over, clean up is a lot easier since the area surrounding the pot will not be as hot. It's no fun chiseling baked on goo off your cooking surface!

The New Choices Make Induction Available for Everyone

I am looking forward to downsizing and moving back into my little condo by the water.  My kitchen will definitely be getting a makeover (stay tuned) and since induction technology is now available in the 30" range format, I'm in.  I've been doing a bit of research and have found that you can switch to an induction range starting at $1,700 for a free standing (as opposed to slide-in which has controls on the front)  model by Kenmore.  Right now with the current sale you can get that down to $1,099.00  It's the same size as your old 30" range too so no worries there.  Then at the other end of the spectrum you can find this Subzero-Wolf which retails for over $9,000.  Currently it's the only 36" induction range on the market.  Needless to say it's the Rolls Royce of ranges!

Is All Induction Created Equal?

One thing I have notice with just about every single model is that the ratings are consistently 4.5 stars.  There also typically seems to be a lemon in the mix as well. If you come upon a bad review you should read it and decide if the issues are something you should research further.   Bad reviews can be great tools.  All these ranges feature convection ovens. (another blog post)  The main differences are styling and bells and whistles including myriad settings on the higher end models.  Find an appliance retailer in your area and check it out.  If you're in my area I'd love to go with you. :-) As far as my search goes, I'm still exploring.  Price is definitely important but this model by Bosch is a clear favorite.  It retails at $3,199 and also includes a warming drawer at the bottom.   I'm still looking though.  As I always say, when it comes to doing your kitchen you must pick your battles.  Spend the money where it means the most to you and save in areas where you really don't mind compromising a little. The trick is deciphering both which is one of the things I explore with my clients.

I'd love to hear your thoughts, comments or questions about induction cooking, pro or consumer, do share!

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.

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.

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."

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.

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.

A Quest for Efficiency Fuels Passion at TecnogasSUPERIORE

What is hot, sexy, Italian and soon to be gracing kitchens across America? No, it's not my husband ;) , it's TecnogasSUPERIORE.  I had the pleasure of meeting the new SUPERIORE line during my recent daytrip to Miami. The South Florida introduction of this new line of Italian dream appliances took place at the historic Biltmore Hotel in Coral Gables Florida. Built by developer George Merrick in 1924, the Biltmore resembles the finest in classic Mediterranean architecture.  It remains the centerpiece of  Merrick’s vision of Coral Gables as an elegant, stately suburb, which he called “The City Beautiful.” Did I mention I was born there?Back to TecnogasSUPERIORE!  Manufactured strictly for the North American market, this line features optional panoramic windows, American sizing as well as a variety of cooking options including gas, induction and convection.  Founded in 1952, Tecnogas is the premiere manufacturer of ranges and matching hoods in Italy.Check out this early version (left ) of a gas range devised by the two young and inquisitive Contini brothers.  It's called a Mobilfornello, an unconventional device that brought together a cook top and a propane tank compartment.  We've come a long way since then but that very same enthusiasm can still be found today in CEO Antonio Di Tommaso who was on hand to introduce the product.  He speaks of his product with a twinkle of enthusiasm and his passion for what he does is very apparent.Gas has always been a preferred cooking method with chefs.  For some of us, there is no substitute for the regal flame, however you can't beat the efficiency of induction cooking.  It's the future.  TechnogasSUPERIORE knows that and they know that Americans love options!  Meet NEXT.  This contemporary series offers gas AND induction cooking surfaces for perfect versatility.  In addition to that, there is an option for  large viewing window so you don't have to open the oven to see what's going on with your turkey.  If you do open the oven you will also love the soft-close door feature.  This is a detail we have been including on cabinet doors and drawers for years and what a good idea it is for your oven too!TecnogasSUPERIORE ranges and hoods are made in Gualtieri, located in the Emilia Romagna region of Italy, which also happens to be the heart of the Italian automotive industry.  Think Lamborghini, Ferrari, you get the picture, fine Italian detail and design.   For them, it was only natural for these elements to be incorporated into their products.  Cuisine and an enthusiasm for cooking are celebrated in this region of Italy. Since size counts when it comes to our ovens, you can find 6.7 cubic feet in their 36" ovens.  They call them "big gas ovens"! (say that quickly three times and you've got the right idea). A perfect blend of function with a distinctive Italian flair customized for American taste is what defines TecnogasSUPERIORE. The DECO series is for you if you want a punch of color in your kitchen.  Matte finishes include brown, red, cream and black with a variety of finishes available on the Deco-inspired knobs. All smart chefs know that when you have a range, adequate ventilation is a must.  TecnogasSUPERIORE has got you covered there too.Hoods to pair with all range styles  offer a 600 CFM capacity.  It isn't just about the looks, you see.TecnogasSUPERIORE is distributed throughout the US by Almo.  They have also established  a nationwide service network of partners trained as experts in their appliances.  Feel free to contact me for pricing and availability.  I say every kitchen has a "star".  If you love to cook in style, this could be yours!Update 11/13/15-  Tecnogas Superiore Ranges start at $3200 for 30” sizes, under $4500 for 36” and up to $10,000 for the Tri Fuel.  The line is available at fine appliance retailers on the east coast and will be available in early 2016 in the Central US and West Coast.

5 Elements of an Artful Kitchen

Summer projects are underway in South Florida!  In fact, it's the height of the busy season for most design professionals here.

I don't have to tell you that a new kitchen is a big investment, in fact the kitchen is the most expensive renovation you're ever likely to undertake. It stands to reason that you'd want a kitchen that is tailor-made for you whether you can afford custom or not. This is what we're all about at Artful Kitchens.

The concept of an "artful kitchen" has many different facets.  It is not just about budget or the amount of space you have but the skill you employ using what is available to you. Here are five tips to consider along with some visual inspiration featuring products I saw this year at the Kitchen & Bath Industry (KBIS) trade show in Las Vegas. Implement these with style and confidence and you will be the proud owner of an artful kitchen!

1. Flawless Function

I'm all about artistic expression but a major part of creativity in the kitchen comes from devising flawless function. This quality is not something you see but something you can experience if artfully accomplished.  When I say function, I mean work centers comprised of cooking, clean up and food prep areas.

Those are the basics but you could have more such as a beverage center (think coffee, tea, wine), a computer station or a baking center.  If you have a two-cook kitchen, your layout should be designed so that any one of the major functions can be performed without anyone getting underfoot.

Following the guidelines set by the NKBA is a must to make sure all clearances are adequate. Sometimes we don't have a lot of choice about where to locate our sink or appliances but we can organize our utensils, dishes, pots and food items in a more efficient way.  Don't forget the more flawlessly your kitchen functions the safer it is. You don't have to be an expert at this, just think about how you use your kitchen so that you will be a good collaborator when it comes time to work with a professional.

2. Personalization

This is, without a doubt, the biggest movement in the design world.  An artful kitchen is your own personal statement customized to the way you live.  It could be a steam oven because healthy eating is your passion or it could be a lovely furniture piece with glass doors to display your grandmother's china. Include the colors you love.  Even though you must be mindful of your budget (everyone has one), strive to retain the essence of what you see as your dream kitchen.

3. Harmony

Harmony is one of the principles of design and a must for your kitchen.  Whenever I design a two-toned kitchen I like to ensure that different finishes and details are carried through the space to create a cohesive whole.  It's about how the floor relates to the cabinets and  how the cabinet hardware relates to the faucet. You get the picture!  It does not mean that everything has to match perfectly, it means elements should relate to and complement each other. It also does not mean that every element has to be perfectly symmetrical.  In fact, consider this permission NOT to be! I find that the best rule of thumb is to follow the architecture and style of the home you're in.  If, for example, the kitchen window is way off center you should work with that not against it.  Never force solutions by sacrificing function.

4. Focal Point

Every piece of great artwork has a focal point.  It is the "star of the show", so to speak.  In a kitchen it can be a sculptural range hood, a granite counter with big bold movement or actually a piece of art! It is the item that makes you say WOW when you enter the kitchen.  Just remember less is more here.  One great focal point is probably enough.  Too much and the statement gets lost. Less is definitely more.

5. Texture

The element of texture involves at least two of our senses, touch and sight.  The textures you are likely to come across include the glossy finishes popular in contemporary design, prominent wood grains which can be traditional or modern and smooth honed surfaces that are more matte.  A flat slab cabinet door is a great choice if you plan to use a wood with a lot of pattern and graining.  In this case the material is the decorative element of the cabinet.  On the other hand, if you are traditional and you are using white cabinets you can select a door with some molding or detail.  Also let the wild patterns either be on your cabinets or on your counter, both would be busy and distracting.

This is only the tip of the iceberg, so to speak.  There are many more tricks and methods to create an artful kitchen. What are yours?  Please keep in touch and contact me. Whether you need a quick consult or a full design layout I can help in person or virtually.

I'm located in the West Palm Beach area, so if you're local I can also help you shop for your kitchen products.

Getting Personal with Thermador

The Kitchen & Bath Industry show (KBIS) is like Christmas morning for a designer, full of excitement and new discoveries.  That's exactly what my experience was like this year as a member of  the Modenus Blog Tour.  Not only that, I also had the opportunity to meet and mingle with some truly awesome designers, the rock stars of our industry.  Before we get to that, on Monday our group visited the Las Vegas Market located in the World Market Center, also the location of Modenus Talks, a meeting of the minds where the topic of the day was: The Power of Great Design - Improving Well Being at Work and at Home.So awesome to think that the way we design our homes and work spaces impacts our health and well being, including mental health!  Combine this with personalization, a significant trend across brands, and you have a winning recipe for client and designer.Personalization means  more options and choices to suit your individual needs.  One example of this is the innovation at  Thermador.  Zach Elkin, Director Luxury Division at Thermador, spoke about how the brand embraces the culinary enthusiast.This year, at KBIS, they introduced a new 30” professional style range with innovative features that provide more design possibilities.  Sister company Bosch also introduced a line of smaller appliances proving that very good things come in small packages Another big healthy trend is steam cooking.  Trust me, you are going to be seeing much more of this.  You can cook ANYTHING except popcorn in a steam oven and it comes out great, even pizza, crispy too!  Steam is not just for veggies anymore.I can't leave without telling you about Thermador's new Freedom Induction Range, the first full-surface induction appliance in the luxury appliance category.  That means that there are no "burners", in fact the whole thing is one big "burner"!  It has sensory technology that "just knows" ;) Next up:  The Perfect Party Mix: Blanco & Poggenpohl