Art for the Kitchen & Bath

If you know me you know I'm always thinking about art and artfulness. When it comes to incorporating creativity into the home, I love finding paintings and ways to showcase sculpture and artisan items in a seamless way, especially in kitchens and baths. I recently attended ICFF Florida (International Contemporary Furniture Fair) in Fort Lauderdale and right off the bat I noticed the amazing work of Lee Brock! She makes original digital paintings directly on metal which makes them a natural for the heart of the home. I thought it would be fun to get to know her.

Paris Rain from Lee Brock Art & Design Paris Collection

AK- What is your inspiration?

Music, culture, history, nature, science, good design and other artists. Making art centers me, like meditation, it is cleansing for me.

AK- Do you accept custom commissions? What is the process for this type of order?

Yes, I do. At this time I am only offering commissioned work with the digital process. The digital images in my catalogs can have custom color themes applied to them, with outcomes dependent on the file type. A discussion in person is always a great way to get a commission started. My studio is in Fort Lauderdale and is a good place for a meeting. That said, communication can also be over the internet. The biggest hurdle with the digital files is getting the colors correct. It is important that samples from the print company I am working directly with are actually seen - in the clients hands - during the process. These are printed on PVC and are part the overall cost. I am always open to creating new designs for clients who have some particulars in mind. 

"Box Full of Winter" It's not what you think it is!

AK- Do you have a favorite piece?

Right now it is “Box Full of Winter” (above). Most viewers see a bouquet of flowers, which is fine, but it is really about air-conditioning. For me it portrays that feeling of coming into a lovely air-conditioned building after being out in the hot tropical weather of South Florida. 

Lee Brock, she also does works on paper. Here she is with her silkscreen prints

AK- What is your background and how did you get into making prints on aluminum?

I grew up in the US and in Europe. I had a natural ability to draw realistically early on. In my teens I discovered abstract expressionism and have been exploring it in many mediums ever since. However, I pursued cooking as a career and not art. I spent some 30 years making art with food. Privately I continued to paint and draw. I left cooking in 2012 and got an associate degree in graphic design at Broward College in Fort Lauderdale. Three years ago I started painting digitally on an iPad while I was traveling. Printing these digital images on the white aluminum came about from exploring the commonly used substrate options available. None of the other finishes created the clean modern look I wanted. One day I was discussing options at a print company I work with and I saw a white aluminum sign blank, the kind that is used for street signs. Eureka! The bright white gloss finish reflects ambient light and color, adding a subtly changing effect into the printed design. I choose images that will work well with this effect. Being waterproof and washable are added benefits I hadn’t thought of. 

Riverside from the New York Collection

AK- I have seen your beautiful catalog.   Do you work on any other materials besides aluminum? 

Yes I do. I love painting and drawing on paper. I often like to work fast and automatically and paper is perfect for that. I am not painting on canvas with oil at this time because of space restraints. I am painting on canvas with acrylic. I adore making monoprints, etchings and screen prints. I have a screen print project I want to get started with soon. I am also a photographer.

You can find more of Lee's beautiful work in her catalog right here.

Materials at Play- ICFF South Florida 2018

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.

Kitchen Design Case Study: Awkward Angles

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!

On the Road in New York-ICFF, Art & Great Food

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. 

5 Ways to Make Any Kitchen Your Own Stylish Sanctuary

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

The Big Move: Episode 8 The Big Reveal

Yes, it certainly has been a while since our last episode but guess what? The Big Move is complete and it's time for THE BIG REVEAL. We are done for the most part.  I guess the truth is the homeowner is really never done.

There's always something, right? Anyway, we are enjoying our new home immensely and in this episode I will give you a tour of the kitchen, show you some of the of the work we've been up to since we met last, share some final words of wisdom and then THE BIG REVEAL!!! Please comment and let me know what you think.  I think the final result is so Glo&Joe.  You'll see my art and Joe's music represented.  Then there's Mac. =^..^= These personal touches are what make a house a home.  Special THANK YOU for following our adventure we are so grateful to all the generous souls who contributed to making it happen.  Without further ado, THE BIG REVEAL

If you just happened to find my video, there are seven more on my YouTube channel. You can tag along with me, a South Florida kitchen and bath designer, as I, with my husband, transition from suburban family living to a cozy condo by the water. As new empty nesters, we're downsizing, minimalizing and taking a property with potential from sad to fab. Follow The Big Move series as I encounter all the choices and issues my own clients face from the other side!

Join me in my upcoming kitchen design workshops in 2018 if you're thinking about a new kitchen in the new year.  Email me at Gloria@ArtfulKitchens.net and I'll let you know the dates and locations.