Kitchen Design Notes

New Product Watch: Grab Bars in Plain Sight:

2009-12-23T22:30:00.000-08:00

Grab bars or Safety Bars, what ever you call them, when you think of grab bars, what comes to mind? Utilitarian? Ugly, even? Well the folks at Health Craft Products came out with a new line called the Invisia Collection.

The Invisia™ Collection is based on a simple concept; GRAB BARS SHOULD NOT LOOK LIKE GRAB BARS.

In keeping with this concept, Health Craft Products has designed a series of luxurious bathroom accessories that also happen to be grab bars hidden in plain sight. Great ideas for "Aging in Place" Design.

WTRH-CRP, Wall Toilet Roll Holder, Bright Polish Chrome Plate

Add a touch of elegance and just the right amount of support with the Accent Ring. Corian® shelves provide ample space for toilet roll storage or other items while the discrete hand rail offers trustworthy support.

ACR-CRP, Accent Ring, Bright Polish Chrome Plate

A unique and incredibly solid handrail designed to contour circular shower fixtures and provide support when accessing controls.

CS-CRP, Corner Shelf, Bright Polish Chrome Plate

The Corian® shelf provides a generous surface that can be removed for easy cleaning. The reliable support rail is always within reach to offer a helping hand.

TB-24-CRP, Towel Bar, 24"/61cm, Polish Chrome Plate

Add a simple yet elegant touch to any bathing area. The 16" or 24" towel bar provides ample space to display virtually any towel set while the graceful arc of the integrated support rail creates a functionally superb design element.

For more information visit, http://healthcraftproducts.com/invisiacollection.htm

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How about a little "Relief"

2009-12-15T08:57:00.000-08:00

I am talking "art relief". Here is a product I stumbled on today that I like called Hardwick Home Decor. These pieces are designed to be inlayed into kitchen backsplashes, indoor and outdoor fireplaces. However, you can use the pieces anyway you wish. Hanging on a wall or simply leaning against a backsplash or a mantel. The website is www.hardwickhomedecor.com. The web site does not say what material theses are made out of, so I am assuming they are bronze. http://www.hardwickhomedecor.com/Artreliefs.html

Favorite Kitchen of the Day

2009-12-13T21:06:00.000-08:00

Photo: David Duncan Livingston

This is a beautiful way of handling a small kitchen space. Kitchen designed by City Studios. I love the slate blue accent color on the island against the white cabinets. Rustic details like the warm-toned recycled antique terra cotta floor. The kitchen's eco-friendly curved soft ivory concrete countertops are made with concrete - a locally made material - and were given have a patina for an aged look. Other details: energy-efficient appliances, insulated and double-paned windows and door and drawer hardware made from high-quality recycled metal. For the full story visit: SF Gate: Greening the Kitchen.

More Shower Power

2009-12-08T08:12:00.000-08:00

Think “going green” always means sacrificing comfort? Think again. JACLO’s exclusive line of low-flow showerheads and handshowers save water and energy without compromising performance. Their secret? An innovative low-flow regulator, as opposed to restrictors, that keeps the pressure and flow of the water strong. The technology lowers the average rate of gallons-per-minute from 2.5 down to an impressive 1.75 – nothing to sneeze at when you consider the average household uses over 22,000 gallons of water per year in showers.

And if you don’t want to sacrifice aesthetics for ecology, JACLO’s low-flow technology is available in over 30 showerhead and handshower models in styles ranging from traditional to contemporary. The regulator also works with all available shower sprays and strengths – full rain, massage, full rain massage, Nebulizing mist^®, and Nebulizing mist full rain. Turns out less really is more.

JACLO^®, an industry leader since 1961, is the leading manufacturer of decorative plumbing products and advanced shower solutions. They continue to inundate the market with highly-stylized shower systems, faucets and decorative accessories that marry steadfast durability with seamless style. Available at over 2,500 dealers nationwide, JACLO’s products create luxurious fully-coordinated bath suites that exude the finishing touch. Implemented in numerous high-end hotels and residences across the country, their product lines provide a superior experience that enhances daily rituals and defines elegant living. Given their wide range of product and dedication to detail, the company is well-equipped to meet the needs and growing demands of its customers with unparalleled efficiency.
Visit JACLO on the web at www.jaclo.com.

Faucet Friday Follow Up

2009-12-07T19:13:00.000-08:00

It's been a week since we installed the new Delta Pilar Touch 20 faucet and so far so good. But, as with any remodeling effort, the domino effect ensued. The new faucet required new angle stops. Then suddenly our garbage disposal decided it had enough and quit without notice. The nerve! We replaced it mid week. The consensus in our household: we all love this new faucet.

Comments from the Peanut Gallery: Here is what we think of a few parts and what would make it better: The button cap that covers the set screw on the back of the faucet is not flexible and wont stay in. We tried to get it to fit over the screw but it popped out. It broke. We then tried the chrome one, (two came in the package depending if you ordered chrome or stainless), but that one popped out too. It's a real hassle. Since we don't see this little button cap part because it's on the back side of the faucet, we are not going to sweat over it.

The plastic battery pack (4 C size batteries) came with stick-em tape to attach to the inside of the cabinet. Well, the batteries are heavy and over time that stick-em tape will not hold the battery pack in place. We think screws to attach the battery pack to the inside of the cabinet would be more helpful.

A design feature we noticed could be problematic for the elderly, forgetful or for kids...the faucet rotates all the way back. Right away we worried Mom would swing it out of her way and forget to swing it back, turning the water on and flooding the counter top behind sink. We have forewarned her not to swing it that far back.

Oh, also the video has an older model, some of the parts were different than we saw in our faucet box, we were worried we were missing parts.

On the box, it does not mention new 3/8 angle stops are required. That would have been helpful to have printed on the outside of the box to remind us, (eh-hem) plumbing novices, while we are still at the big box store, to be forewarned to get new angle stops before we (I mean they) leave.

The hose is not as long as I thought it would be. I need another foot to be really practical and reach the plants behind the sink or to fill a heavy stock pot on the counter. My mom has arthritis and lifting a heavy pot up and out of the sink is a problem. But the braided hose is very durable. The retraction for the Magnatite spray head is really good. A simple push and it finds it's home snugly.

If you are not a plumber and installing a new faucet, be sure to read ALL THE INSTRUCTIONS to the letter. For example, the instructions warned not to over tighten. Tighter is not better. We g-e-n-t-l-y tightened and of course we wound up with a gentle leak the next day. So we gently tightened again. No leaks so far. All is good. Also, plumbers tape is not necessary on the threads. Learning curve aside, we are happy we have our new Delta Faucet.

Pilar Touch-Activated Single Handle Pull-Down Kitchen Faucet with ToucH2O® including Soap Dispenser

Holiday Home Tours in Southern California are...

2009-12-06T21:41:00.000-08:00

so "So Cal". I have to admit, we are a different sort out here in Southern California. We live in a time of strange dichotomies. We import our fun, not content to love what we have, and what the rest of the US wishes they had, oh no, we go to great lengths to import faux weather. Go to the snow? Not us, we bring the snow to us. We are not exactly living in a "Winter Wonderland" but we try. Snow in LA is a rarity so I had to do a double take while driving on the 101 Fwy. this Sunday afternoon when I saw the small hilly front lawn the size of a football stadium at Oaks Christian School covered in snow and kids frolicking with their sleds. It was in the 60's today. No rain, no snow. We are in middle of a drought and Oaks Christian can afford to import truckloads of snow. Hopefully it was a fund raiser for a good cause. Thousand Oaks City Hall also has a hand in creating faux weather. The concrete lake is frozen over to create an outdoor skating rink.

Meanwhile I am heading towards another charity event for a good cause and anticipating having a fun time with friends. It's the annual jaunt to the Holiday Home Tour put together by the Wellness Community-Valley/Ventura Chapter. We go for many reasons. Not only is it a warm fuzzy knowing our money is going to support a worthy cause. The Wellness Community provides a wonderful network of free programs to those individuals who have been diagnosed with cancer as well as provide support for their family members.

Moreover it is fun day out for girl friends to get together, throw a little money back into the local economy while we "ooh and ah" at the spectacular 10,000 sq ft. Mega Mansions in all their holiday faux-snowy glory. Tuscan, "Zen-tarian" (Mediterranean meet Asian), French Country and Tudor style estates, one more spectacular than the next.Oh My! I would have loved to have shown you pictures but no cameras were allowed.

As we are at one home on the tour, we notice the Carolers. My feeling is there is something really out of sync watching Christmas Carolers adorned in Dickens Era Caroling Costumes replete with Heavy Coats, Tops Hats, Bonnets and Petticoats gathered deck side near the infinity pool on a pleasant Southern California Sunday.

We saw enchanting displays of Christmas Trees in front halls, libraries, dens and dining rooms but I have to admit the real show was the backyards! As I walked through beautiful mega-manse estates, I wondered why some homeowners overlooked the kitchens. There were some kitchens that were downright dull with builder grade cabinets that looked so out of place when the rest of the house was so exquisite. It then hit me as I entered the back yards, (indoor-outdoor living space as we call it in California). The backyard is the other living room. It was no surprise to see where the money was invested. Outdoor kitchens! And what kitchens they were! We are talking beautiful resort worthy backyards. Infinity pools, jacuzzi's, one had a zip line traversing over a stream in the Santa Monica Mountains, another had a water slide formed out of the mountain side, Separate Structures for the Cabana Houses with wide screen TV's, fireplaces, "His and Her" bathrooms were some of the amenities I saw. Then my heart skipped a beat when I saw the outdoor cooking cabanas. I mean these backyard designs and construction must have cost the price of a small house. Complete Viking Outdoor Kitchens: fully equipped with bar-b-cue grills, refrigerators, dishwashers, sinks, beer taps, plenty of granite topped counters, teak style cabinets, fireplaces and flat screen TV's around cozy seating arrangements. Who would ever want to leave home? With outdoor living spaces like this, no wonder why the indoor kitchens were ho-hum. Who needs to use the indoor kitchen when outside is so beautiful?

In a time of such great disparity, it is a pleasure to see many people come together to donate their time, their labor, and their homes for a worthy cause. We stopped at the Holiday Boutique and bought some gifts. I found a beautiful knit scarf and found out the ladies who knitted the scarves donated their time and yarn just for the event. I was told all their proceeds go back into the charity. That meant something to me. It was a good show and a lot of fun.

Photo credit: www.dailystoke.com/.../2008/12/surfing_santa.jpg

I have a new found appreciation for Plumbers and the rates they charge.

2009-11-29T20:25:00.000-08:00

I hope everyone had a lovely Thanksgiving weekend! Long weekends are so wonderful, it's like getting a little mini vacation.

Today, I helped my brother ( I read the instructions) install a new Pilar Touch 2O kitchen faucet by Delta. I'll blog more about this week with tips and comments. Bottom line: We love it! It's terrific. Look ma, no more chicken hands on the faucet.

We got it in and it works great, but I certainly see why plumbers get paid the big bucks. It's not just the process of installing a new item, it's dealing with cruddy old parts, rusted angle stops and other detritus that they are prepared to deal with that a novice is not. So anyhow, it's a beautiful thing to complete a project from start to finish even though it took us all day while a plumber would have done it within a couple of hours.

Before you fire up the oven for the Thanksgiving Turkey

2009-11-24T21:29:00.000-08:00

So yes, it's true my family says I worry a lot. It's not about being a worry wort, it's about safety and there isn't anything wrong with erring on the side of caution. So, before you fire up that new range oven for the Thanksgiving turkey, if you have purchased a new Electrolux ICON or Kenmore PRO Gas Range between August 2008 through October 2009 double check your model # to see if yours is on the voluntary recall list.

Click this link to be directed to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission for the details.

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission report states Electrolux has received four reports of incidents involving carbon monoxide being released from the recalled gas range. No injuries have been reported. Consumers should immediately stop using the range's oven and contact Electrolux for the Electrolux ICON or Sears for the Kenmore PRO to schedule a free repair. Consumers can continue to use the cooktop (top burners) and the broiler as well as any clock and/or timer functions.

http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml10/10048.html

Have a happy and safe Thanksgiving.

New Product Watch: Outdoor Kitchen Hood

2009-11-10T07:57:00.000-08:00

So who needs an outdoor hood you ask? Anyone who enjoys outdoor living. Here in Southern California where we spend a great deal of our time enjoying our backyard patios, outdoor cooking is second nature for some.

With DANVER'S recent introduction of the first Stainless BBQ grill hood built at 32 inches deep, there are more design placement options than ever for locating the BBQ grill.

Knowing that my readers may ask the question "why do I need a hood in my backyard?" I have taken time to interview the great folks at DANVER.

Q: "Why do I need a hood for my BBQ?, My BBQ is not in a covered area and I have been doing fine without one so far."
DANVER responds: You only need a hood for a covered area. For instance, most outdoor kitchens in FL are open and do not require hoods. However, DANVER has seen a growing trend throughout the country for outdoor living and entertainment areas that included not only kitchens, but also TVs and sitting areas. Even in colder climates homeowners are looking to invest in outdoor living spaces they can use year-round. These particular areas are normally covered increasing the demand for outdoor hoods.

Q: "Why can't I use a standard stainless steel hood for my outdoor BBQ?"

DANVER responds: Besides the extra installation and costs mentioned before, the UL listing for outdoors hoods is different. Some stainless steel hoods may work for both indoor and outdoor kitchens, but not all of them. It depends on the hoods ability to handle direct flame.

Q: "Does my local building dept. require a vent hood for an outdoor BBQ?"

DANVER responds: If the outdoor kitchen and BBQ are under a covered area, Yes.

Q: "Where does an outdoor hood vent out to?"

DANVER responds: Considering it is in covered area- either straight up to the roof or straight up the back wall out to the area of the house that is not covered. The hoods are always attached to a wall.

For more information on designing with DANVER HOODS, follow the link below:

http://www.danver.com/productspgs/prod_grllhood.html

Before DANVER’s production introduction, the deepest hoods available measured 27 inches front to back, which did not fully cover the depth of most outdoor grills. To compensate, installers had to build some sort of box to add depth, adding cost and complexity to the hood installation. To simplify installation and cut costs DANVER worked with a major U.S. hood manufacturer to develop a 32 inch deep stainless steel BBQ hood.

Introduced in Summer 2009, the BBQ Hood is available in 36 inch, 48 inch and 60 inch widths to work with various outdoor kitchen designs. The all stainless steel exterior design is easy to keep clean and eliminates grease traps. For even easier clean-up the baffle filters underneath the hood are durable and dishwasher safe. For builders, dealers and other installation professionals who want to build their own hood, Danver’s hood liner is available providing the same 32” deep capture area.

For more information on DANVER’s outdoor BBQ grill hood or to design your own outdoor kitchen, visit www.danver.com and call 888.441.0537.

About DANVER

Headquartered in Wallingford, Conn., DANVER is the leading provider of stainless steel cabinetry and amenities for outdoor living including island inserts, grills, specialty burners, pizza ovens, bartenders, refrigerators, freezers and beverage coolers, sinks and faucets, floating shelves and kitchen carts, and door and drawer fronts. DANVER is dedicated to providing a luxurious outdoor kitchen experience.

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Follow Fridays

2009-11-06T09:04:00.000-08:00

Sometimes I just nod my head in agreement when reading a fellow Designer's blog post. So with no further ado, I divert your attention from my blog to go read what Kelly is talking about in her blog Kitchen Sync.

Managing Stealth Costs

Very well said Kelly! Thank you so much for pointing out the obvious to us but not so obvious to first time remodel types.

Appliance Recall

2009-11-06T06:24:00.000-08:00

Samsung™ Over-the-Range Microwaves Recalled Due to Shock Hazard

Click here for the report.

Reuse, Repurpose, Recycle

2009-11-05T08:55:00.000-08:00

Don't ya love it when you can reuse an object and it actually looks cool? Notice anything familiar on the table? This coffee table uses reclaimed wood from a bowling alley.While no one would ever think high end modern style and bowling have anything in common...

William Stranger’s “Second Life” project proves to be an exception to the rule. Using reclaimed wood from a local LA bowling alley, Stranger has created a number of different and interesting pieces that include a coffee table, bench and diptych. Read the full story at PSFK

Concept Outlet Design Saves Power Without Unplugging

2009-11-03T07:56:00.000-08:00

Have you heard that the simple act of unplugging electronics and electric equipment not in use can save big on your energy bill? Equipment not in use but still plugged in draws energy in stand-by mode. Freelance designer Yong-jin Kim has come up with an innovative solution. Instead of the hassle of unplugging equipment. with the simple twist left, the electrical supply is cut off at the receptacle.

Via Design Milk

Kitchens should be fun! It's so easy, dance if you want to.

2009-11-01T12:30:00.000-08:00

The quest for the most efficiently built cabinets never ends. Here is a Merillat ad from the sixties, (maybe someone from Merillat can confirm the year of this ad for us), that shows modern convenience back then, to the new video from Blum showing us the latest technology and convenience today.

Ok, so a little more news on base cabinets today. Yesterday we looked at corners in action, today we are going to look at a real cute guy in action. (Grin). This video deserves a post all on it's own. A man who dances and cooks. I LOVE THIS! Servo drive has been around for a few years, but this video was just created in May '09. Think of the uses, even if you limit the Servo drive to just one of your hardest working drawers, imagine the convenience! With a tap from a knee or a push from the hip, no more water drips on the cabinets near the sink. No more chicken hands on your drawers or cabinet pulls.

The product is showing the new Blum Servo Drive for drawers. Drawers open automatically using an electrical drive. Sorry, cute guy not included.

If you are having trouble viewing the U Tube Video, click here:

Hello, Oven? It’s Phone. Now Let’s Get Cooking!

2009-11-01T12:10:00.000-08:00

Is technology smarter than we are? Man's cell phone turns on his oven. For the full story click here.
It has the Maytag authorites, the Fire Marshals and the experts at Consumer's Report baffled.

Cellphones, which send signals at up to 3 watts, often create electromagnetic interference with baby monitors, computer speakers and car radios, so it's reasonale to assume that a cell phone can cause your electronic igniter on your oven to "pick up the call."

Be careful with keeping electronic equipment too close to your cook top and oven. You may get a phone call and your oven may just pick up!

reference: http://www.nytimes.com/2009/08/23/nyregion/23about.html

The Future of Corner Cabinets in the Kitchen Is Here Now!

2009-10-31T11:40:00.000-07:00

Once upon a time being sent to the corner as a kid was a bad, bad thing. It was considered punishment in school. Even worse, (or so I've heard), if you had a real tough school marm, you were further humiliated by wearing a dunce cap.

In remodeling a kitchen, reaching into a blind corner cabinet is the equivalent of being punished. No one wants to stoop down, on bended knees, crawling and reaching forward in a contorted yoga move forcing you to breath while grasping for that unreachable bowl in the caverns of the dark corner.

Corners have come a long way in kitchen design. Check out these space saving options in corner cabinets found around the web.

Going to the corner has never been so much fun. Watch and see!

University Creates Catharsis Chambers for Stress Release

2009-10-30T08:52:00.000-07:00

University Creates Catharsis Chambers for Stress Release
The Epoch Times released a report on October 6, 2009 about Universities in China installing emotional release rooms. Could they be on to something? Wouldn't we all like an emotional release from the stress of .... (fill in the blank). Or is this a bad idea leading to more anger and range...I meant rage. (Sorry, still thinking about an annoying spec detail on a range). And exhaustion too! These catharsis chambers sound like an exhausting experience leading to more stress and anxiety.

Remodeling can bring on stress and I find that a long walk works quite well. Maintaining a sense of humor also works well. When ever stressed out, I imagine how Robin Williams would respond to the issue at hand and I wind up making myself laugh.

image by BrittneyBush

Playing poker with your cabinet estimate: "How much is it gonna cost ?"

2009-10-29T20:16:00.000-07:00

I am not a betting person but sometimes I wonder if I should take up poker since some client's like to play it with me. Poker it seems is a game of not revealing your cards and is a game of chance, skill and never revealing your moves.

The problem with playing poker in remodeling is that it just doesn't work this way if you want me to plan an estimate for you. "How much is it gonna cost me?" "How much do you want to spend?" I could bluff but that just wastes both your time and mine, doesn't it? You can't build your budget on a game of Texas Hold-em and I can't plan a design for you unless I know your budget, pardner. Case in point: You want to buy cabinets from me and you want to know how much it's gonna cost. You look at my corner 10 x 10 display and you ask how much would something like this cost in my kitchen? Well that's like asking how much is a bag of groceries!

Estimating is time intensive and if you really want to know the truth, if you think you are getting a deal with getting someone to come out and give you a "free estimate" you just lost the game. Anytime someone says it's a "free estimate" is playing poker with you. Chances are he is factoring his time into the cost of the project without revealing to you that the time to estimate, the drive time, the payroll expense to pay someone to layout the plans for your "free design" just upped the ante for him. He has to factor his time and labor into your cost. But not just your estimate, you are also paying for everyone else who asked for a free estimate with over all higher prices. Time is money, my friend, and no one is driving around town, spending time with each customer that calls for a free estimate and not building his costs into your estimate. If he isn't, he won't be in business for long.

Do I want to play poker with clients? Nope, I am a straight shooter. I don't like gambling with my customer's time or money. I can provide you the option of a free estimate if you bring me your measurements and I can do a take off with preliminary numbers to get you in the ball park of price ranges. A free estimate won't be accurate to the penny because I have not verified the dimensions my self. It will remain a ballpark range within 10-15% until the dimensions can be verified and the details of your "wish list" versus "must have" list" clarified by you.

If you are not comfortable with measuring your own kitchen, I can do that for you but I charge a measure fee for my time to come out to your house and take accurate measurements of the space and you will get accurate pricing. This is rebated back to you when you purchase my cabinets, which is a fair deal. If you don't want to buy from me, you get a few rendered concept views and those are for you to keep.

All this makes sense until the customer who wants to have a Mexican Stand Off enters the picture. She wants a price, but won't bring in dimensions of the kitchen and she won't pay a measure fee for preliminary plans. She won't pay the fee because she doesn't know if she will like what she gets. It does not pay to play poker with a client because I cannot guess how much your kitchen is going to cost until we discuss what it is exactly you want in your kitchen and until I price it out. I cannot presume to know your taste and style without at least having a conversation with you. I have to see it or at the very least be provided pictures of kitchens you like and dimensions to estimate from.

Come on folks, this is like going to see your Cosmetic Surgeon and telling her you want your face to look younger but you are not willing to reveal what part of the face you want worked on and how much you want to spend. A brow lift, a facial peel, a face lift, remove the bags under your eyes, remove the jowels, it all adds up. What do you want to do?

Likewise you can't go to a Realtor and say "I want to buy a house" and escorted to several homes for sale without knowing what your price range is. Kitchens, like houses, like cars, like anything you want to buy are available in several different prices ranges. If you cannot reveal honestly what your investment can be, your service provider will not be able to provide you the best service or the best value for the money without these basic facts to work from. Mostly, I want to provide my clients a project and a product they are satisfied with. To do this well, communication is essential and this is no place for a game of poker with your wants and needs.

Also, if a client tells me she doesn't need a design, she just needs to order cabinets, you can't place an order for cabinets without a plan. A plan involves a design, a design involves exact dimensions, dimensions require accuracy and if I am responsible for your order, I need to be the one measuring for those cabinets. I suppose you can simply go to your local big box store and place your order with the order takers, but then you are responsible for your dimensions. I prefer not to be an order taker.

Getting an accurate design and paying a Professional Kitchen Designer will save you money in the long run. You can retain a Kitchen Designer to provide you a space plan so that you can get competitive bids from contractors or you may get a great price from that Kitchen Designer and buy from her. Whichever the case may be for you, working with a Kitchen Designer will add value to your project. Contractors will thank you for having detailed plans to bid from, as this saves them time knowing what the details are for your project in advance. There are too many details in cabinet design for a contractor to keep up with or even care about. Most contractors will advise clients to get their cabinets planned out and provide them a copy of the plans. A kitchen designer will be able to best advise on cabinetry, counter tops, lighting, flooring, best use of space layout, seating arrangements, appliances, storage solutions and so much more. Furthermore, an experienced designer that specializes in Kitchen Design will save you from the headaches of not pre-planning the details and not having the materials on the job when the contractor needs them. You can find a Professional Kitchen Designer by searching the National Kitchen and Bath Association website, NKBA.org.

How much is it going to cost? Moreover, how much will you save by retaining expert advice?

photo credit1: http://flickr.com/photos/latitudes/66492870/in/set-1442169/
photo credit2: Clint Eastwood, The Man With No Name

Oyster Tub By Salvinistile

2009-09-19T06:31:00.000-07:00

Specs.
Size: 70.85" x 42.15" x 26.60"
Material: Marble
Design By: Architect Carla Baratelli for Salvinistile
Country: Italy

This is more than just design in marble. As shown from their web site, click the photos to link back to more photos from House 8, this is European designed "concept living". Shapes influenced by nature is a trend we are seeing more of in sinks and tubs.

Great design if you are Michael Phelps, limber enough to move in and out of water like a fish. For those of us who are aging less than gracefully, planning a design with safety factors in mind is critical.

The National Kitchen & Bath Association developed the Bathroom Planning Guidelines with Access Standards to provide designers with good planning practices that consider the needs of a range of users.

Grab Bars: Plan grab bars to facilitate access to and maneuvering within the tub and shower areas.

Tub and shower walls should be prepared (reinforced) at time of construction to allow for installation of grab bars to support a static load of 250 lbs.

Grab bars should be placed at least 33” – 36” above the floor.

Grab bars must be 11⁄4” to 2” in diameter and extend 11⁄2” from the wall.

Access Standard

Recommended: Walls throughout the bathroom should be prepared (reinforced) at time of construction to allow for installation of grab bars to support a minimum of 250 lbs. of pressure.

Grab bars should be placed according to the needs and height of the user, particularly near the tub/shower and the toilet.

Code Reference:

Grab bars should be installed at the tub, shower, and toilet according to the following:
Bathtubs with permanent seats: Two horizontal grab bars (a1) should be provided on the back wall, one between 33” and 36” above the floor and the other 9” above the rim of the bathtub (a2). Each grab bar should be no more than 15” from the head end wall or 12” from the foot end wall. A grab bar 24” long should be provided on the foot end wall at the front edge of the bathtub. (ANSI 607.4.1)
Bathtubs without permanent seats: Two horizontal grab bars should be provided on the back wall, one between 33” and 36” above the floor and the other 9” above the rim of the bathtub (a3). Each grab bar should be at least 24” long and no more than 24” from the head end wall or 12” from the foot end wall. A grab bar 24” long should be provided on the foot end wall at the front edge of the bathtub. A grab bar 12” long should be provided on the head end wall at the front edge of the bathtub (a4). (ANSI 607.4.2)

For More information:
Salvini Stile
NKBA.org
Michael Phelps Photo Credit Link

Recyclable Lids Give Old Cans a New Life

2009-09-18T11:49:00.000-07:00

In the spirit of reduce, reuse, and recycle Recyclable Lids Give Old Cans a New Life

Northumbria University graduate Jack Bresnahan, drew rave reviews at the New Designers 09 exhibit in London for his innovative design of biodegradable, plastic lids designed to re-purpose tin can containers.

Innovative concept, yet I will add my own "Kitchen Designer" caveat. When re-purposing tin cans, I would recommend reusing recycled tin cans for
dry, non food storage items only.

Reason: Food Storage Safety. 1) tin cans gives off a metallic taste to food. 2.) the soldered side seam and bottom of a can may leak over a period of time. I had a sticky mess in my pantry one day when I discovered an unopened tin can of mandarin oranges leaked syrupy juice after sitting a long time. 3.) A metal rust ring can collect on wet surfaces.

Lest you think I am kicking the tin can idea to the curb, this recycling idea is a good start to keep us moving forward with "cradle to cradle" product design.

A passionate believer that designers must take responsibility for their designs from conception to disposal, Jack feels that ‘anything that ends up in landfill is simply poor design’.

All Images, copyright by Jack Bresnahan

SketchBook Mobile

2009-09-17T15:43:00.000-07:00

Imagine what Michelangelo could do today with this technology.
Watch and be amazed!

For more information, read at It is Alive in the Lab

A Cautionary Tale: Identity Theft on the Internet

2009-09-17T09:09:00.000-07:00

Things are not what they appear to be on internet blogs. I send you over to Nicolette's, "Comfort and Joy" Blog, to read her eye opening experience.

Of Scruples, Scams, Divas, and My Evil Twin

"Oh what a tangled web we weave,
When first we practice to deceive!"
Sir Walter Scott, Marmion, Canto vi. Stanza 17.
Scottish author & novelist (1771 - 1832)

photo credit: Daniel Rozin's Weave Mirror

New on my Watch List: Coquillage Sink by Amin Design

2009-09-16T16:26:00.001-07:00

Perfection in form.

Look...

What a beautiful sweep in form from lavatory to faucet.

More...

http://www.amindesign.de/

Managing Design Expectations: The Client -Designer Relationship

2009-09-16T03:03:00.000-07:00

The Kitchen Designer: Hello, this is Laurie. How may I help you?

Client: Oh Hello, before you come out to my house to take measurements, I have one other request for my kitchen design. At our first meeting you asked us if there was one primary cook or two and if we had any special needs we want you to take into consideration.

The Kitchen Designer: Yes?

Client: Well, yes, we thought about your question and realize we do have a family member that uses the kitchen quite frequently and we think we need to take his special needs into consideration.

The Kitchen Designer: Oh?

Client: Yes, you see we have a cat that won't drink from his bowl. He drinks from the kitchen faucet. Actually, our cat is very fond of water. The only problem we have with this is that he can't turn the faucet off when he's finished. We need you to help us with this. Can you specify a sensor into the faucet that will turn off when there is no motion?

The Kitchen Designer: Well... sensor faucets are on the market and they are becoming more popular...I would have to check specs to see how we could make this work...I suppose...can I get back to you with an answer?

Client: Sure, that would be fine. Here is a video we took of our cat, perhaps it would be easier if we could just show you what we mean. If you can just review this, and maybe if you can also show this around to your vendors to get the best deal, we want the faucet to be triggered by a sensor...our water bill is getting pretty high with the faucet on all day. Can you show us all the best possible options to help us out?

This is a hypothetical story, of course, using a very funny cat video submitted on line by Kim Tasky at You Tube. (She is neither a client nor the person in the above scenario.) I use this very amusing cat story to make a "tongue in cheek" point about a universal problem regarding the client-designer relationship.

The point is this:
There are some clients working under the impression that Kitchen Designers should spend time on your project researching, sourcing, evaluating, planning the best possible options to incorporate a client's every last desire on the wish list before paying for services. There are no professions that work for free. So why do people expect to be dazzled with a design before paying for it?

You can call a plumber for a service call and he will charge you $75.00 just for the trip charge before he pulls out his plumber's wrench.

You wouldn't call your attorney and ask him to review your lease agreement

without expecting a bill would you?

And you wouldn't tell your attorney "I want to see what ideas you can come up with first and then I will let you know if I will hire you."

Perry Mason

Kitchen Designers receive a myriad of special requests for a remodel project. Some details more complex then the next to specify and execute. And most every time, the client is on a deadline because they did not budget the time to allow for the design details to be fleshed out. All projects, no matter the size, require thought and research before recommendations can be made. Here in lies the problem. How do you value your designer's time?

How much free design do you think you are owed before paying a retainer?

Solving Design Problems: What is this service worth to you?
There is a perception problem about what a design is worth to the client. Here is the issue Designers are continually facing: a prospective client has a design problem they want their Kitchen Designer to solve for them. Designers expect a prospective client to interview with two or three designers before making a final selection. Qualified designers expect to be interviewed and are able and ready to prove their qualifications to prospective clients. But ask a Designer to pull out the "dog and pony show" for you and you may get a polite response declining your request. Internally the dialogue going through that Designer's head may be something to the effect of "I have been doing this for 30 years, I don't need any more practice to prove I can design."

Ask a Kitchen Designer their opinion about "HGTV" type shows where three designers are trotted out for the client to compare three fully detailed designs and you will get very opinionated answers.

"Ideas are free but designs must be paid for." Laurie Burke

Home improvement shows have done a disservice to the design community and have built up unrealistic expectations for clients. You would be surprised to know that a majority of potential clients expect that several design options be presented in detail before paying a retainer to contract for design services. It happens at all ends of the spectrum from the high end client to the budget minded client.

A fully detailed dimensioned design plan with elevations and renderings, before a retainer is paid is just not a workable business model for designers as it involves time without money, and giving ideas away with the ‘hope’ of getting the business is just bad business.

Charles Schulz

Hiring your Kitchen Designer should be based on several factors, creativity being one if them. Secondly, the ability to complete projects in a timely manner and within budget. Third, the ability to communicate with you, your architect, your engineer, your GC or subs throughout the job as needed. Fourth, the ability to manage obstacles as they arise, and lastly the ability to see a project to it's completion.

A Renovation Check List

2009-09-15T07:51:00.000-07:00

Getting ready to remodel? I will point my readers in the direction of a "MUST READ" article posted by my friend Paul Anater of Kitchen and Residential Design about renovation expectations. I too have received the phone calls from clients who are in a state of panic over the tile going up, the color of the cabinets, the floor, the paint and so forth. Paul has made sane points, so with no further ado, I point you to Ready To Renovate? Take A Moment And Breathe First.

I highly recommend you print out these "10 Points of Reason " when you feel like you are going to loose your mind. Print it, post it where you can see it, your bathroom mirror, outside the plastic wall of your remodel zone, your check book.

Remind yourself that long after the remodel is over with, the dust and muss is gone, what remains is a beautiful space. And above all else, remind yourself to breathe! Thanks Paul!