A Kitchen With A Happy Ending!

Today we wrapped up some final details in this new kitchen.  The client was going for a Mediterranean vibe, elegant but at the same time warm and inviting.  She loves to entertain so the kitchen had to be a focal point for her guests and it had to tell the story of her vision.  All these bells and whistles can really run up the price of your cabinets but we were able strike a good deal with Kith Cabinets.  We knew we could improve the function, incorporating her appliance wish list in the style she was dreaming of.  An added challenge was that we had to incorporate the existing floor because it had to stay.  She selected white painted cabinets with a warm brown glaze which really worked well.We were able to include a range by Viking, a Dacor microwave drawer, a beautiful Silgranit sink by Blanco, and some really nifty accessories including a mixer lift which she uses to store her juicer.  We devoted one roll out in the pantry to be used as a charging station and a place to throw the mail so the lovely counter can remain clutter free.  Notice that we also incorporated some gentle curvy shapes with the counter top and the wood hood.

That FAB box on the counter is a nifty gift for our client, gourmet salts that magnetically attach to pull out next to range.  They are something like this.This client had a clear direction from day one which really helped keep the project on track.  This very traditional design comes with a maximum of detail and I'm happy to say we have left a very happy couple to enjoy years of romantic dinners in their new kitchen.Design was a collaboration between the client and myself.  Cabinets by Kith Kitchens, counter tops by Stone Palace, appliances by House of Appliances and installation by Brendan Donovan Furniture & Cabinet Co.  See local resources for more info and contact details.

5 STEPS TO A MINDFUL KITCHEN REMODEL

One of my favorite magazines, Cooking Light, contains a very interesting article that I love this month.  It’s about something called “mindful eating”.  I agree that we, as a culture, me included, eat way too much because we don’t do it mindfully.  Simply put it just means that if you make yourself 100% present and focused at the task at hand (eating) during mealtime you will enjoy your food more and you won’t feel the need to eat as much.  I happen to believe that you can easily carry this concept over to the kitchen design and remodel process.  These days when we are trying to get the most out of every dollar we want to know that every aspect of the complicated process of remodeling a kitchen has been well thought out.  Here are five ways you can do it.  

On line resources such as houzz.com allow you to research and prepare for your remodel. Contemporary Kitchen design by San Francisco Architect Cathy Schwabe Architecture

 1) Don’t be in a rush-  When you impose a drop dead date such as Thanksgiving or Christmas you will be more likely to rush your choices.  This is a complicated process and it needs to be planned out properly and executed in a certain order.  Collect your thoughts and ideas beforehand.  This should included concept photos, and ideas for products.  In this day of social media there is no excuse not to do the research.  It will allow your professional partners to do an even better job for you.  

This would be an example of a master of  traditional design!

Mediterranean Kitchen design by Phoenix Design-build Fratantoni Luxury Estates

There's a big difference in the details!

Modern Kitchen design by San Francisco Kitchen And Bath European Cabinets & Design Studios

 2)     Work with someone you feel good about-  I don’t care how knowledgeable your designer, or salesperson seems, if they don’t feel right for you, you’ll probably save much aggravation by partnering with someone you feel is your ally and can see your own unique vision.  Many designers are adept at working in a variety of styles.  However, if you love sleek, modern, minimal designs don’t select a designer who’s work is typically very traditional.  They’ll probably be able to help you but it not with the insight, enthusiasm and access to products as someone who specializes in your style.                3) Prepare for the downtime- Always insist on a schedule for your project.  This is NOT to say it won’t have to be tweaked from time to time but it’s always best to have a starting point.  It helps keep all the players on the same page. A big part of this is to plan how you’re going to get by when you’re without a kitchen.  Where are you going to put the refrigerator?  Do you have convenient place to put your microwave?  How close is your temporary set up to a sink?  Keep most used cups and utensils easy to access.                           4)   Pick your battles- Everyone has a budget and  most of us  can’t have it all.  That said, there are usually a couple of areas in which a judicious splurge can make all the difference.  One biggie is springing for a counter depth model refrigerator which is nearly flush with your counter top.  This makes a big difference in a small space. Although they’re more expensive they’re still a lot less than the super high end true built-in models.   5)   Don’t rush to judgement- If you are living on site during your remodel, resist the impulse to go into a seizure over every nick or crooked drawer front.  Again, it’s a process with a million details and steps.  At this point you should be trusting (if you did step 2) your professionals to do what they do.  Typically all doors and drawer fronts will be aligned before your installation is finished.  It is also typical practice for you and your designer to get together on a punch out list so all concerns, including touch ups are addressed before completion.If you have a question about your kitchen design or remodel I’d love to hear from you!

FIVE NEW ALTERNATIVES TO STAINLESS STEEL APPLIANCES

As you know, I’m always on the prowl for the latest in the kitchen and bath industry.  You may have noticed all the articles lately about the decline of stainless steel as the “go to” finish for kitchen appliances.  Everyone from the Wall Street Journal to The Daily Beast  is touting the hunt for THE new finish that will supposedly unseat stainless.  Yes, stainless steel does have a reputation, and rightly so, for being fingerprint prone and hard to clean.Tip:  Never clean your stainless with any product containing ammonia or chloride.  For best results use mild soap and water and dry with a dry cloth.  For tougher jobs you can also use find stainless steel wipes at your local grocers.  Never use steel wool as it will scratch the finish.This said, there have been lots of improvements and attempts to address these issues with special coatings and claims of “finger print resistance”. True or not, we’re ready for a change and several major manufacturers are taking a stab at what will be the next big thing.  Personally, I think stainless will continue to be a predominant option but I also believe we’re going to continue to see many new choices.  Here is what 5 major players are doing:-G.E. Slate is one of my favorites.  I like it because it’s fresh and different yet not SO different that it will clash with existing stainless steel.  Brushed metal touch points can also tie a new appliance into the mix  in case you’re not in the market for a complete suite.  They also claim the Slate finish is fingerprint resistant and easy to clean.SubZero Wolf- The Mercedes Benz of appliance brands introduced the “Black Glass E Series Ovens” a year ago. Clearly not the best choice for households with children!  Built in ovens are available in 30” standard or flush inset application, the Black Glass model comes adorned with a black glass tubular handle and, wait for it, a COBALT BLUE interior!In addition  to the oven, Wolf also offers black glass trim kits for Warming Drawers and 30” Convection and Standard Microwaves. Glass may be print-prone but it’s also one of the easiest surfaces to clean. No word on if this finish has been popular enough for them to offer refrigerators in Black Glass.Whirlpool White Ice is hot.  It’s the new white.  I think in general, people are taking another look at white which is also hugely popular as a cabinet finish.  Just think how seamlessly it would integrate with white cabinetry. On the other hand a contrast highlights the best of both worlds.  I must spill the beans, however, White Ice isn’t really glass, it’s just metal that looks like it. If you want real glass Jenn-Air makes the “Floating Glass” collection & does offer a choice of white or black glass fronts to them. They no longer offer the contrasting stainless tubular handles however. The handles are now a euro curved powder coated finish (that won’t discolor like plastic)Last but not least, my fave appliance maker Bosch featured a line of UBER glass finished appliances  just a few months ago at IFA,   the world's leading trade show for consumer electronics and home appliances in Berlin.  This is strictly a European offering so far and I don’t believe we’ll be seeing it here anytime soon.  A kitchen designer can dream though.  Bosch has applied their good old German practicality and efficiency to create a seemingly indestructible and beautiful product. Here’s video filmed on location at IFA Check out this line up, also as seen at IFA this year in Berlin.  Can you imagine a purple refrigerator?  I hear they also deduct calories, just kidding...  

BETTER LIVING BY MIELE

This past week I was given the opportunity, by the nice folks at Miele (rhymes with tequila), to mix business with pleasure.  I attended a Miele Table Artist Salon for an evening of culinary creativity.  I was not disappointed.Not only were we treated to an exceptional gourmet experience, courtesy of Chef David Whyko, but I also got to learn more about the two most promising and up and coming appliances in the industry. (Trivia:  Chef David was chef for Lenny Kravitz for ten years!)

Greeted at the door with a glass of bubbly set the tone.  This was followed by a sit down dinner for around 20 people. All food prepared by Chef David was cooked using a combination of induction, steam and speed cooking.Miele, based in Germany, is a family owned business started over 100 years ago.  Their guiding principle is to provide “Better Living” with products designed to make one’s life easier.  All appliances are tested to last a minimum of 20 years.We’ve been hearing the buzz about induction cooking and, as I have written before, it is a safer, faster and more efficient way to cook.  You will certainly be seeing the induction cooktop become a major player very soon.  The second star of the show was Miele’s steam oven.  Steam cooking is gaining in popularity as more people become aware of the capabilities it offers.  For example, you can do anything in a steam oven that you can do in a microwave.  Not gonna lie, there are two exceptions to that rule which are popcorn and reheating your morning cup of joe.  Here’s how it works.  Fill the reservoir with water, set your temperature and in about ten minutes average you should be done.  Steam cooking retains flavor and nutrients to a greater degree than with other modes..  A big thanks to the Miele Gallery in Boca Raton for an informative and delish event.  The Gallery offers prospective customers a hands on experience so you can see how their products add a little "better living" to your life. 

IT'S ALL CREATIVE

One thing I discovered during my Bosch Blanco Bloggers' Retreat is that creativity cannot be contained.  It spills out of the box in all sorts of interesting ways.  It was a great experience.  It's exciting and inspiring to learn about all the products, both the history and origins, as well as the very latest technologies.  Most of all, I loved hearing about  the design process and how these products come into being.  I enjoyed interacting, not only with the creatives at Bosch and Blanco, but also with my peers.  Whenever I could, I asked them about their typical days, how they work and what they do in their off time.  What I found is that there is no off time for a creative.  I should know that, right?  I discovered an editor who loves to knit, a kitchen designer who's passion is ballroom dancing and a much admired kitchen blogger who loves to photograph roses.  She confesses to having literally thousands of rose photos lurking in her hard drive!  The creative process is also a big part of what I learned about during our two days at the BSH Design Center in Irvine, California.The process of developing new products begins with colored pencils and adventurous minds.  The team at Bosch endeavors to achieve just the right combination of precision German engineering and the latest technology to address the needs of the consumer.Sometimes these needs are apparent but often they can be situations (observed and researched) that we may not even be aware of!  This is what makes the folks at Blanco and Bosch such a great team. They have a similar approach which understands that everything's connected in our world and it all informs what we need to function comfortably and efficiently in our homes.  Kudos to them and thanks for the memories! 

DAY 2 BOSCH BLANCO BLOGGER RETREAT

So where were we?  Ah yes, day 2 of my latest great adventure.  Friday, after an impressive little breakfast spread, we settled in for a guided tour of the new BSH Experience and Design Center and yes it WAS quite an experience.  We were outfitted in our very own custom and official looking lab coats (my first).  A camera crew toured with our group so someday I expect a film or two to make its appearance.Our first stop was THE WALLS (excellent use of hallway space, I might add).  These walls illustrate through shadow boxes, the details of materials, engineering and quality control that go into a Bosch appliance.  Each appliance undergoes not 25, not 250 but 2500 checks before being sent out into the world.  Yes, your new dishwasher may have a couple water spots and that's why.  The Bosch design philosophy is inspired by German industrial designer Dieter Ram's 10 principles of design .  They are in good company.    Apple Inc. is also one of the few companies designing products according to his principles.DESIGNED FOR LIFENext on the hit parade was Designed for Life-an Interactive Design Workshop.  My group worked with a member of the industrial design team to design a range.  We looked at things like how it could work for people that have limited mobility, are visually impaired (just had to remove my spectacles) or victims of advanced pregnancy.It was a real eye opener and I actually did come up with some ideas.  Here are my notes.  From sketches and notes the design team takes it to 3D imaging on the computer where they will tweak until its ready for the prototype stage.

 LISTEN TO THE SILENCEFrom vision to hearing, the next experience was all about my favorite Bosch product, the quintessential dishwasher.  Bosch makes the quietest dishwasher in the industry rated at 39 decibels.  I know this to be a fact from personal experience.  I've been squirted a time or two from opening the door when I wasn't aware that it was running (probably didn't have my glasses on).  They have solved that problem.  In new models a red laser dot shines on the floor when the dishwasher is running.  You can't miss it, even sans glasses.  In addition to the silence these dishwashers are rated the most water and energy efficient.  They are quite proud to have placed in Consumer Reports latest top ten in five categories including number one in value.  Speaking of value, you will spend anywhere from $549-$1,999 for a Bosch dishwasher.  The nice thing is that whether you opt for high end or entry level you don't have to sacrifice efficiency or silence.  The differences are in the interior bells and whistles. FIX AND FEAST!Time for lunch and a great opportunity to test drive all the Bosch appliances and Blanco plumbing fixtures .  Under the guidance of company chef, Kyle Jacobi, we collectively prepared a feast including fish tacos, stuffe chili rellenos, bacon wrapped shrimp, Spanish rice and more!WHAT'S COOKING?After lunch it was time to learn about induction cooking and convection ovens.  If you're not cooking on induction now, you will be in about ten years.  I'm not kidding.  Even the glass top electric range will go the way of those coil burner types we used to use.  Remember those?  The cool thing is you cannot burn yourself.  The heat only happens when the burner comes in contract with the bottom of the pan.  It uses a lot less power too!Convection ovens have been around a long time but I learned a couple of things about them too.  True convection, as featured in Bosch ovens, has its own separate heating element.  Then there is something called "Speed Convect".  What that means is no preheating.  Zero to 350 in no time at all!  We finished the BSH Experience in some really comfy chairs learning about the Forces that Drive Innovation presented by Tim Maicher, Director of Marketing at Blanco America.  I loved that he expressed that there is an emotional as well as technical component to kitchen design.  I have always held that belief.THE LAST HURRAH!The final event of this two day adventure was dinner at The Cannery in Newport Beach.  Here I got another glimpse of the water but for the first time the sky turned gray. (Guess it was sad we were leaving).That's it!  I have a lot more to share about new products at Blanco along with my random musings on stuff.  I hope you enjoyed your personal virtual tour.  I'll be loading lots more photos to the On the Road with Kitchens for Living Flickr album.  I'll let you know when they're up.  Ciao for now!