Tile of Spain - Tradition and Innovation Defined

Last Week I was a guest of Tile of Spain on a trip that immersed our small group in Spanish history, culture, and tile innovation as we attended the fantastic tile fair, Cevisama, an image of the fair below.

To experience Spain in this 360 degree way allowed me to connect the dots from historic art and tile to modern, quite incredible architecture, to innovative food still grounded in tradition, to stunning, modern tile design and impressive technological advances in tile, all of which has shown me that there is a great energy and spirit for design across many disciplines. The desire and commitment for excellence has always been a source of pride, justifiably, for this beautiful country.

Aparici Showroom

I took just about 3,300 images of Spain in all its glory. We toured both Madrid and Valencia, led by at least three architects who lived in the region. I think, quite simply, that Spain's commitment to and achievements, today, in design and design innovation may well be under the radar of many who appreciate good and intelligent design.

What I have seen in this, my fourth visit to Spain in four years, was more of the same - truly stunning design and architecture, which includes the Spanish tile industry. There is no question in my mind that Spain is a leader in tile design and development. I've seen endless installations of Spanish tile in showrooms and at Cevisama, have spoken to owners and employees of factories and have walked the factory floors. Noteworthy form and function is everywhere.

It's more than a cottage industry in Spain - it's a sophisticated strategy to produce tile for the world that is beautiful, useful, of good quality and sustainable. It is fairly recent that Tile of Spain has begun their campaign to create awareness of their natural strength in tile design and manufacture, and from my firsthand look, it is exciting to see so many people passionately dedicated to producing smartly designed tile products. Below is a bridge overpass designed for a modern mosaic mural.

As this is more of an overview post, I will aim, via these images, to communicate a feeling of awe inspiring design and architecture which includes the new, the old, and sometimes mixing both to create a modern experience.

To talk trends (next post) you really need to see Spain from this vantage point, so I hope you can see that you are in for a treat!

Mr. Steam Steam Bath - For Health & Wellness

Mr. Steam's steam generating products for the shower, unbeknownst to me until last month, have powerful, and seemingly magical qualities that can actually add a positive dimension to your life. Sounds like ad-speak, right?

I'm a typical stressed New Yorker-type, as I sit in front of my 3 monitors in my home office, all of which I use (and could really use a fourth), travel frequently and juggle too many balls. Yet, I'm also at an age, 59, where I understand the importance of relaxation and have the luxury of relaxing when I wish to - putting my feet up, having a glass of wine, things like that.

In our other house we moved from nearly 5 years ago, my husband and I had a hot tub. We used it quite a bit over the years. It required constant maintenance, required setting aside time for my husband and I to use it (neither of us used it alone for some reason) required appropriate clothing to walk outside, shower after, and we could only use it about 6 months during the year because it was best suited for use in cold weather. Nonetheless, we loved it - it was so relaxing.

My world changed when I experienced a steam shower last month! But first, a little note:

Mr. Steam is one of the sponsors of BlogTourLA, presented by Modenus, which makes it possible for designers to greatly broaden our horizons in regard to design and culture in the city we travel to. In exchange for this incredible opportunity, we are asked to write about the sponsors and it stops there. Opinions are completely my own.

So, I had my first steam shower last month, as part of BlogTourLA and here's what changed for me: it was a similar feeling of complete and utter relaxation as the hot tub. I instinctively closed my eyes, became used to breathing in a steam environment, and found my muscles relaxing little by little. Ultimately, I felt this "new" sort of feeling which is hard to describe.

It was a relaxed feeling, yes, but more than that, it was an entire body, mind, and soul experience which organically blocked out everything else that was happening in my life at that moment, which encouraged a state of quiet bliss - those are the words that come to mind for me.

Steam therapy has many other benefits which you cannot necessarily "feel". What I DID feel affected my entire being, translating to an "experience" and one which I would like to repeat - like, multiple times a week! And I will own a Mr. Steam product within the next year. I need that type of relaxation - year round!

We're taking better care of ourselves in the kitchen, eating in a healthy manner and are using safe, non toxic, materials in kitchen design. In the bath, we are taking the opportunity to slow down, even for a short period of time and care for the body, mind and soul before taking on the world once again.

This conept, above, has been confirmed to me recently by one of the largest U.S. brands of residential plumbing fixtures during a recent presentation, at which Mr. Steam's iSteam control product was mentioned as addressing the needs and desires of today's homeowners. It is not often that one brand of plumbing fixtures mentions another's!

Beyond relaxation, Mr. Steam is a natural detox system, and offers "aromasteam" to stir the sense of smell in different ways depending on the mood you want to create (imagine - your eyes are closed in the steam bath and aromas become a lovely focus.) "Chromasteam", using color as a mood creator and "audiosteam" uses music to gently stimulate with sound. Following is my Google+ post, take a quick look and if the post is not shown just below, then you can see the Mr. Steam video I shot here :

But the BEST news is the ease of installation. Regardless of your limitations, there is a Mr. Steam product for you. Mr. Steam provides "clean steam ... every time" to further the wellness performance properties. Slope your ceiling to allow for steam to run off properly. A shower seat is recommended.

I KNOW I need a method by which I can enter a "zone" that is a dimension other than "sleep". There's no doubt that I became enlightened from my experience with steam. Have you considered steam therapy for your busy life?

Dekton - By Cosentino

In June I traveled to Spain on a press trip with Cosentino to take a look at new product introductions from Silestone, the Nebula Series, and an entirely new category of surfacing, Dekton.

Our group traveled to the south of Spain where the headquarters of Cosentino is located. Situated in a desert landscape lies a huge factory dedicated solely to the production of Dekton. I'm not sure how far we walked in this building (a mile or two?) but the factory's size, the newness of every piece of (custom designed) machinery, the organization, the endless technology, extremely long/innovative production line and product samples we observed made it clear that we were witnessing an unprecedented commitment by a brand which knows that Dekton is a gamechanger for surfacing materials.

Dekton is manufactured in a way unlike any other surface material, with new technology, new state of the art machines, and new formulas created by the scientists at Cosentino. Every step of the entire process is truly innovative. Using extreme heat and pressure, the result is a surface with exceptional strength and performance, high resistance to impact, scratches and abrasion. It is suitable for use as exterior cladding and interior surfaces with extremely low water absorption.

For today's interiors and exteriors which are often connected visually, Dekton is a beautiful and functional design solution. Dekton will withstand 1200 degree temperatures. The slab sizes are 126" x 56" with thicknesses from .8cm to 3cm.

For an interactive description of the performance properties of Dekton, see this very interesting page on the Dekton website. A very informative pdf brochure with a full explanation on aesthetics, function and the engineering of Dekton can be found here.

Dekton encourages a new way of thinking for designers in the kitchen and bath industry. Dekton's performance and aesthetic characteristics are such that it should be considered for use in the following ways by designers:

countertops and backsplashes

flooring - customized, large format sections

wall treatments - an understated, elegant look

any application in the bath - coordinating walls, flooring, shower as required

outdoor kitchens

creatively blending floor and wall treatments interiors and exteriors

quiet, sophisticated colors to accentuate form and design flow

As restraint in design is more understood and desired in today's contemporary interiors in conjunction with a continuing desire for warmth, the understated beauty of Dekton becomes a top contender to express interior design in a very lovely way. Dekton colors - simple and elegant.

Lamps Plus - Lighting The Way To Good Design

A highlight of my trip to LA last month was a visit to the huge Lamps Plus showroom, a lighting fixture superstore. Lighting design, done well, brings every room in the home to life, and the three anchors of a good lighting plan are:

• task lighting
• accent lighting
• general lighting

These lighting concepts will bring dimension and layers to an entire space, a featured area, with the option to use multiple effects for aesthetics, function or both, depending on time of day or use. As you can see, lighting fixtures have the ability to transform the entire perception of a space. It will take time to get to that special, transformative place, but it's well worth the effort, and of course, design professionals can add creativity, knowledge and experience to make all lighting elements work in concert together.

Lamps Plus is one of the sponsors of BlogTourLA, presented by Modenus, which makes it possible for designers to greatly broaden our horizons in regard to design and culture in the city we travel to. In exchange for this incredible opportunity, we are asked to write about the sponsors and it stops there. Opinions are completely my own.

When I entered the Lamps Plus store (one of more than 40 superstores throughout the western U.S.) I went with those lighting concepts in mind - layers, function, pure aesthetics. Lamps Plus has EVERYTHING in their store, including lamps you can custom spec. Take a look at some of the beautiful light fixtures I discovered in this video I made:

This is why I love getting immersed in a brand, because you would think that Lamps Plus only has lighting, right? No, far from it. Lamps Plus has in-home lighting consultations, in-store tutorials, and offers installation services from licensed electricians, but that's still only the beginning! How about home furnishings?

A sister company of Lamps Plus is 55 Downing Street, an online destination for home furnishings, always on sale. Events are limited, allowing for a revolving collection of brands and styles of home furnishings. There are literally thousands of products to choose from and, taking a look at the contemporary rug collection, as one example, revealed a very broad collection of designs that were both sophisticated in design aesthetic and reasonably priced. The value is clearly there in my opinion.

Like any store, shop or even boutique that has endless items for sale, it's important to take your time during the hunt on the Lamps Plus online store. Here are some tips to make your shopping experience the most efficient it can be:

• narrow the results as much as you can
• read the specs which are very detailed and very helpful
• add to a wish list
• review your favorites several times to be sure of your choice
• watch the ship date
• take advantage of the low price guarantee
• read reviews
• see color and bulb options

I was quite surprised at the breadth of the products I found. Look carefully, and you'll find that gem.

Google Helpouts For Kitchen Design - A New Day!

What are Google Helpouts? They are the future - the new way to bring together a homeowner and design expert to talk through kitchen and bath design issues, among many other topics, live over video. A Google Helpout will soon be the most immediate, most affordable, most trustworthy, and best way to find the information you are looking for-NOW, or at a time that can be scheduled at your convenience.

Google Helpouts launched last week and I am proud to announce that I am the first kitchen design professional vetted by Google and invited to become a charter expert on Google Helpouts. You'll find my kitchen design listings here.

For those who could not otherwise afford a professional kitchen designer, or who prefer to do a DIY kitchen project, Helpouts are the answer. Helpouts are also a great solution for those who need a second opinion from another kitchen design professional.

Homeowners, interior designers, allied professionals or anyone needing information on any aspect of kitchen design can now get answers FAST. I would not be surprised if a smart phone app is on the horizon. At the tile store? Login for a Helpout with me on the spot! I expect that to be launched soon, although I have no advanced word on it. 

I've done several Helpouts, and here are some tips to get the most information from your Helpout.

• Message me in advance and tell me what you would like to focus on.
• If you have a plan or images, send them along and the Helpout form will allow you to add images and links.
• If you'd like to show me your kitchen and you have a laptop or tablet, at the time of our Helpout, you can certainly move the laptop so that the camera captures your kitchen. That's exactly what my first clients did, complete with having granite samples on hand.

The prices are so affordable for all of the Google Helpout experts, it will cost more NOT to engage in a Helpout, risking costly mistakes.

Google Helpouts has just changed the course of the kitchen and bath industry, giving instant professional information to anyone at extremely affordable prices. It's a new day - and a GOOD one for so many homeowners!

Gessi - Kitchen And Bath Luxury

The Gessi “lifestyle” is luxury, and I COULD stop right there, as it says it all. Gessi was a brand I was often curious about and up to now, have not taken the opportunity to immerse myself in.

Gessi is one of the sponsors of BlogTourLA, presented by Modenus, which makes it possible for designers to greatly broaden our horizons in regard to design and culture in the city we travel to. In exchange for this incredible opportunity, we are asked to write about the sponsors and it stops there. Opinions are completely my own.

Here is a quick look at Gessi!

As I look over my images of a great many Gessi products that I was able to see, touch, and use and after speaking with Gessi representatives, it is apparent that Gessi is committed to (obsessed with?) capturing the entire experience surrounding their products. This means not just good, but superb, design, quality, functional control, and endless options for how one would like to interact with water. Take a look at this dramatic shower...

gessi goccia ceiling mount washbasin spoutDo you know that you can have a ceiling mounted washbasin spout? I think it's one of those products that is a true original in the luxury bath marketplace. If you only have room for a small mirror behind it, it could get tricky when using the mirror. Planning in advance for optimal use of your bathroom mirror is essential-including an oversized mirror or second mirror are the solutions. But, this is clearly a sculptural look - the end of the spout is in the design of a water droplet!

The collection of kitchen faucets is small, but the designs are elegant, scuptural, and functional. Both modern and transitional designs, and one stunning chef's faucet, I can report that the quality of the fit and finish that I took a close look at is top notch.

An impressive note, beyond the beauty and quality of Gessi products, is the manufacturing process. Every product component AND production process is done in house, following green practices, in Gessi's manufacturing facility in Gessi, Italy.

I think if you are seeking designs that are truly unique, highly stylized, and which will actively communicate beauty and quality, Gessi is a brand to look at. I'm very glad that I had the opportunity to spend the time to learn about Gessi.

Designing Pro Appliances Into The Kitchen

By Susan Serra

Pro appliances first made their appearance in the late 80s, the beginning of widespread adoption as baby boomers wanted new - better - more powerful toys with which to cook (and ok, the alpha status of a pro range was a slight draw too ... *cough*) We're talking about this topic on the Twitter chat, #kbtribechat.

BlueStar Super Performance Range - Platinum

Fast forward to 2013. We have a few years under our belt post-near catastrophic recession (just ignore the detail of possible financial armaggedon if the debt ceiling is not dealt with, oh, in less than 24 hours from now?) But I digress.

In a very small nutshell, the years since 2008 have taken us:

1. to cooking more in our homes

2. to knocking down even more walls or otherwise create as open a floorplan as we can, for social and non-kitchen related activities increasingly taking place in the kitchen

3. on an interesting, inviting, and addicting journey toward wanting ever more performance in everything - technology products, cars, clothing, cooking appliances and on and on. 

The paradox, to me as an observer of kitchen design and social trends, is that while most of us want the open plan kitchen and are moving toward a cleaner, more modern aesthetic, we also do not want to give up performance in those alpha appliances. Yet, many of us don't necessarily need the range to be the focal point of the kitchen like we used to want - we are moving toward the kitchen as more of a seamless connection to surrounding rooms and less utilitarian in spirit. This is true for many, but of course not all, kitchens.

So how do you quietly integrate pro appliances into the kitchen? For this post, let's just talk about pro cooking appliances such as the range and separate rangetop and ovens. Here are some tips:

Look for true built-in depth - 24" is compatible with the depth of kitchen cabinetry. That said, note the depth of the door and handles.

Consider colors and finishes - Think of this on the front end of the design process. A brand like BlueStar has 750 colors and quite a few mettalic finishes as well, and you can also combine metals and do all sorts of quite smashing and chic custom looks. Coordinate colors with your cabinetry for a look that flows.

More on finishes - It had been my prediction early this year that we would see matte finishes in appliances just because of the open floor kitchen. I then went to the Architectural Digest show to see a couple of BlueStar appliances in a fabulous matte finish. This adds to an understated look.

Consider the hood - A trend in hood design, or ventilation design, also due to the open plan kitchen, is to create an invisible hood or one which is more of an integrated architectural element in the kitchen. This is not the best or only example, but you can see where it's going (imagine a pro range or cooktop is underneath):

Separate Rangetop and Ovens - For a less "big" look, use separate pieces. Use a rangetop and put the ovens under the counter, hidden from the family room or den, rather than up high. Sure, I hear you groaning already re having to bend down, and if that is a real problem, then don't do that. But, it's also my contention that aesthetics needs to be further up in status with function at the start of the design process rather than filling in the blanks as often happens after everything is designed.

A good thing? BlueStar has handles configured for a French door opening so that you can access the handle just under the countertop and swing it to the side and close it the same way. That is also a quasi-universal design feature.

I will add more tips over time, but this is a good start to get you to have it all - pro performance and an understated kitchen design.

WestEdge Design Fair - 2013

By: Susan Serra, CKD, CAPS

I'm attending the WestEdge design fair in sunny LA this week! WestEdge will showcase U.S. AND international design. 

Chelsea Design Center, London, which I visited on a previous BlogTour
I was invited by Modenus which presents "BlogTours" in the U.S. and abroad, bringing international design bloggers together to experience design fairs, learn from other top designers in the region of the specific fair, observe and enjoy the regional culture via architecture, food, people, and along with it, simply, and profoundly, to transform BlogTour participants' outlook on design, while the group shares and compares the experiences with one another and with their family, friends and followers.

Inspiring, no? Seen during London Design Fair

I know this to be an incredible experience because I attended the first BlogTour in London in 2011. Even then, in its infancy, BlogTour added knowledge and a stunningly expanded view of design outside of my bubble (even though I'm not in much of a bubble anyway, but it was a meaningful experience for me in many ways.)

Poggenpohl Showroom London
BlogTour by Modenus is not possible without the help of wonderful sponsors. The sponsors for BlogTourLA are:

BLANCO

Duverre Hardware

Gaggenau

Gessi

Lamps Plus

Modenus

Mr. Steam

Poggenpohl

I look very much forward to interacting with the sponsors from BlogTour for one reason only (ok, the cocktails will be enjoyed too!) - to learn. That's what this is about for me. It's a privilege as a designer to have access to brands large and small, in many different ways and venues, to learn. Having access to the top people at these brands who can talk intelligently about design and technology, enhances my knowledge which benefits my readers and others. I'm grateful and ready to go!!!

How To Design A Kitchen - And Google+

One day I was inspired to talk about how I approach the design of a kitchen and I described the process on Google+. I put lots of good, fresh, content on kitchen design in Google+ - some which is in short snippets and some long form. From time to time I will share that content. You can find me on Google+ in three places:

• My personal Google+ Profile: Susan Serra
• My own community: Kitchen Products + Design
• My role as kitchen & bath moderator in the Interior Design Community

And that's not all!!! I have created my own personal hashtag on Google+ called #SSKITCHENTIPS which puts ONLY my personal kitchen content in one place, not mixed with others' content and not mixed with my NON-kitchen content. It's all there, so follow me on Google+ as well and visit me in these places in addition to the blog. 

Here's a little bit about my philosophy on how I approach kitchen design. If you're on Google+, please comment on that post as well right from this page!

 

If the post does not appear above this line, you can find it here. 

Chalkboard Paint In The Kitchen

Do you like chalkboard (also called blackboard) paint? Yes, we've seen it fairly frequently in kitchen design, but it's certainly not a mainstream trend, maybe something on the periphery in my opinion, so embrace it if you love it.

Here's a chalkboard look with a difference! I can see something like this in a kitchen on a big wall at the breakfast area. It's very artistic, don't you think? I shot this image at the kitchen design fair in Germany and every so often I look back at my images to refresh my memory on special discoveries. Just like we notice design in hotels and other public spaces, trade shows are where you always find innovation so I knew I had to share this example of chalkboard paint. With so very much to capture at a show, I like to bring out bits and pieces of cool design concepts throughout the year.

For those who are creative, or who know someone who is an artist, this could be a superb way to add multiple themes via the chalkboard to the kitchen as the mood or season changes. Create designs on the blackboard that are formal, modern, urban, country, or an eclectic design. Make it cool and cluttered as is shown, or the opposite - super simple with one strong motif. Tired of the blackboard? Paint over it!

Chalkboard paint is easy to use and easy to do away with once you tire of it. I LOVE change in the home. I think it's so important to build in the ability to change a mood into my designs. Why keep everything the same for years??? Maybe the way to set your version of the chalkboard apart is to use a colored paint for your wall. You can get any color paint you wish. It could be interesting to do a chalkboard look in a very light neutral such as a white, off white, a sophisticated khaki or very light and soft blue gray.

The best bet is to experiment on a large piece of 1/8" thick masonite or other smooth surface, put it in position and live with it awhile before you make the visual commitment. Play with colored chalk. Create a variety of designs to test them for design, scale, proportion and contrast and when you like something you have drawn take a picture of it for future reference because you will be most likely trying quite a few artistic concepts on the board! But, definitely do it your way!

Modern Kitchen Design - The Kitchen Furniture Look

Let's dissect this brown, modern kitchen design. I took these shots of a display, a very large one, similar to a furniture look, as large as a kitchen is if not quite a bit larger, at the LivingKitchen design fair in Germany this year. I attended the show with Blanco America and it showed the very latest in kitchen design from Europe.

Although it's a display, which is meant to instill excitement and show innovation in design, we can still learn quite a bit from a kitchen as large as this one, especially if we are interested in design concepts far away from the typical, which I'm always open to! So, let's get to it. Here's MY take and tell me yours:

Pros: 

• It's just an exciting design overall
• It's a unique color, one nor normally seen in a gloss door style
• Who wouldn't love the fireplace and skin effect?
• It looks like furniture
• The eye has room to REST, SO important IMO!
• I love the floating effect
• I love the ability to change out decorative/useful items in open/closed storage
• The horizontal lines are interesting, also the depths of cabinetry, etc.

Cons: 

• Everything happens at the island - ok if there is ample room on all sides
• The flooring is too sterile for me
• As is, regardless of the warm color, it's a bit cold-I need art

Overall, I think it's gorgeous. My assumption is that the refrigerator might be situated down toward the fireplace, in the tall cabinet section to the right or maybe unseen, at the other end closer to the sink section of the island. Likewise, the ovens might be situated in one of these areas, perhaps concealed. The ovens could also be built into the island. 

If a design similar to this one worked out for my own kitchen space, I'd definitely try something like this. I think it's modern, furniture-like, while still being utilitarian.

What do you think of this design? Is it warm, cold, something in between? What would you change?

Kitchen Backsplash Rail

What do you think of a backsplash rail? I've always liked them. When I first started in kitchen design in the late 80s, they were very common in European kitchen design - and still are. I would not call a backsplash rail a trend - it's really a classic way to store cooking equipment that is useful and intrinsically decorative too.

This is an image I shot at the Architectural Digest show at the fabulous La Cornue booth. I think it's a nice eclectic look - to have the, let's say, "less kitcheny" wood backsplash wall, which to me looks more formal juxtaposed with the useful items on the rails. 

The black and stainless add to the glam factor but the texture and tone on the wall is very understated and soothing. Of course, the pots are gorgeous with those brass handles!

Other options to add some warmth to backsplash rails are to add tea towels hung over the rail, place some herbs or flowers in utensil holders, put a small piece of artwork on a rail shelf or decorative crockery as a few ideas. The great thing about this kitchen design element is that it can change - just move useful items around the rail, add and subtract items, and create a whole new look for any reason or occasion. Change is good!

Following are other images of backsplash rails that I took while in Germany at the LivingKitchen fair. 

One of the best sources for a backsplash rail is the great collection of accessories and backsplash rail systems from Clever Storage. 

Would you use a backsplash rail in your kitchen?

Tile Trends 2013

There's more to share on my trip to Coverings, the tile design trade fair, showcasing tile trends, stone, artisans, processes and more.

Along with more insight on what I saw at Coverings is another collection of inspiring tile via the slide show I put together with images I took from the show floor. And there will be more, as the best is yet to come, but in the meantime, you'll love these tiles!

Often, when I am going home on the plane from a design event, rather than flip through a magazine (after all electronic devices need to be turned off) I take that time, from the gate up to 10,000 feet, to write in my Moleskine about what information stood out to me, for future reference. As I look at my little notebook, here's what I noted about trends (but first, take a look at some beautiful tile!)

Trends spotted:

• WOOD (tile), wood and more wood
• Wood tile that is super rustic and stunning!
• Wood tile that is incredibly realistic thanks to advanced technologies
• Wood in lighter tones as a peripheral trend
• Long planks of wood tile
• Wood, conrete and stone looks trending
• NEUTRALS BIGTIME!
• Very large format, even larger than I observed at last year's coverings show
• Large porcelain slabs by many manufacturers designed for paneled surfaces including kitchen countertops
• Very THIN tiles - definitely the new way to produce tile
• Fun patterns, geometrics, playing with shapes
• Microbial and recycled content
• Salvage, urban, metallics
• Vintage, inspired by nature
• Pop and subculture references
• Damask!

A few of these trends were noted in my previous post on tile trends, but there are quite a few more discoveries I have added here. 

Tile technology has been rapidly advancing and by that I mean tile is manufactured much lighter in weight which saves much energy especially for imported materials, in many cases the materials are much more green than ever before, and although there was an abundance of grays and wood design stories, there is also an enormous amount of real creativity and original design. Fresh vintage/retro is also still a story, but probably the biggest story is the microbial effect where the tile actually cleans the air! Learn more here from Crossville's latest introduction. 

I have more fabulous tile to show you - just wait - you'll be shocked at what's to come!

Tile Trends 2013 - Tile of Spain

A couple of months ago I traveled to the Coverings show to see 2013 tile trends first hand. Coverings is an American showcase for all things tile. The design fair was held in Atlanta. I attended at the invitation of the Coverings show officials, a great opportunity. 

While I have many, many images of tile from the trade show, some of which I will feature in the near future, I'd like to start my coverage (overdue!) with a few of the tile companies who are members of the Tile of Spain trade association. Here is a slideshow which features my images from the show floor!

Following are trends that I have identified at the show that are true for Tile of Spain as well as trends which were seen throughout the show.

• As travel is on the rise, homeowners want to replicate a travel experience with tile textures and patterns that bring back their favorite place
• Art Nouveau has surfaced as a trend many like due to its unique design elements, not quite traditional, not quite modern
• Mid Century Modern continues to gain interest in the marketplace
• Popular colors are mid range warm gray and neutrals (no surprise there!)
• Warm tones - cream, beige, camel, brown and red are rising. Emerald and blue are important in North America this year.
• Metallics with their warmth, patina, and age add personality
• Vintage design helps homeowners connect with a meaningful period
• Salvage such as brick, rustic wood and stone remains very popular
• Inspiration from nature and accompanying natural textures seen in stone and wood, particularly with more pronounced texture and grain is increasing in popularity
• Subculture motifs from graffiti, classic art forms, pop culture, industrial are a strong peripheral trend
• Tiles are very thin and are produced in ever larger sizes 

In addition to these trends, the refreshed traditional tiles such as Spanish and Moroccan looks continue their innovations, producing exciting new designs.

I have many more images which I will share with you in the days ahead!

A Dysfunctional Kitchen

This could be the most fabulously dysfunctional kitchen design that I have laid eyes on in recent memory - what a great find from my tumblr feed!

It's everything fabulous - the uber-serious moody overtones, the sense of haute kitchen fashion, the "this is my kitchen and did you notice the old iron lally column???" nuance. But, the best feature is the utter and ridiculous dysfunction.

First question - who in their right mind would actually spend the money to execute this "design"? It has to have been designed for some sort of set. I do see a table off to the left of the image - could this be a real home? Speaking of fabulous, here is a list of the fabulously dysfunctional elements to this kitchen design:

• Note the high sink edges and the faucet controls
• Where is the storage?
• See the location of the refrigerator-behind the sink
• Doesn't look to be much lighting
• How does the antique brass countertop hold up?
• How do you clean this kitchen?
• What is the significance of 6 pans on top of one another on a gas burner?
• A recirculating island type fan = ZERO FUNCTION
• Where are the dishes and glasses, not to mention food, stored?

If this set was not designed specifically to torture a professional kitchen designer, I'm not sure what other purpose it serves! 

To me, this image does provide one interesting lesson: Don't immediately be influenced by what appears to be esoteric, fashionably-original design, as being representative of GOOD design. Money thrown at high end products and materials (and designers) does not necessarily translate to good design. My work is done here ;) 

The Modern Kitchen Pantry

The design of the kitchen pantry is an opportunity to play with form and function. The image below was taken by me at a kitchen fair in Germany, LivingKitchen. Take a look at the special design elements.

Finish - An immediate attraction for me, this super rich brown finish adds a large dose of immediate visual warmth regardless of its otherwise modern design. The grain has a horizontal direction, another hint of a modern aesthetic.

Cubicles - We quickly focus in on the three white cubicles, situated in the cabinetry in an asymmetrical design. The cubicles serve to project an unexpected visual treat, solely to add interest to the cabinetry. The high contrast of bright white surrounded by the rich brown finish serves as a visual punctuation mark!

Recessed Hardware - The hardware, recessed rather than a separate pull or knob, provides a built-in look and a modern horizontal shape. 

Lines - The rectilinear shape of the pantry cabinetry, unadorned by molding, accentuate its modern design.

Overall, these pantry cabinets communicate a look of modern sophistication. Think out of the (typical) pantry box to add your own special design elements. It's rewarding to just take a few creative steps beyond the typical which always results in a highly personal and timeless design.

Holiday House Hamptons

Last week I dressed up in all white (as was requested) and went to a fabulous press event in Bridgehampton for the opening of Holiday House Hamptons. Celeb designers were there, everyone in white, and it was a perfect summer day. Following are images of the kitchen and breakfast room, designed by Jennifer Duneier.

As a kitchen designer, I like to point out pros and cons and anyone is welcome to discuss, agree, disagree, etc. so please do! Here's my take on this kitchen.

It's eye catching! There's a sort of "no fear" approach in terms of bold color. At the same time, there is restraint by only using two main color-colors, each of which allows the other to be a visual player. 

The softer color of the backsplash, bold in its pattern, yet softer in tone, supports the brighter colors in the kitchen to make them be the stars. The backsplash is a supporting role, yet it's not. It works because the wall is otherwise uncluttered, given the bold pattern, let me put it that way-it's a good thing! I'll also say that I was initially struck by color, not pattern when I first saw the kitchen, but that's just me and is not a positive or a negative.

I'm not sure I would have added the vertical metal stripes on the hood, but there is interest in lines and circles used near one another, allowing for another focal point on that wall, and it is simple in its execution. And, classic.

The marble works well and adds to the cool/warm design. It was smart not to add the strong tile on to the other walls.

Now to the cabinetry

I have a few issues here. The door design is absolutely fantastic - stunningly different, interesting, original. Love it. 

Personally, I would not have wrapped the cabinetry around on to the range wall. I'm more conservative with cabinetry and don't like to fill all spaces in with cabinetry. There are other alternatives. 

I would also have done something more interesting to the right of the refrigerator. My guess is that the designer wanted to keep things simple and have the cabinetry be sort of cohesive "blocks" in a sense. I think there would have been other opportunities, lots of them, to add interest, but not clutter, on this wall. 

One thing that could have been done is to use fewer cabinets but have them float on the wall, allowing for about 15-18" or so of wall space on either side of the cabinets. That would still be simple and they would appear more "dressed", less utilitarian. 

One could also put up simple but industrial stainless steel shelving which could tie in the appliances and strong hardware, as long as there were few, but properly proportioned items on the shelves. Or span a stainless shelf in between 2 cabinets. There are lots of other things that could have been done on this wall. 

I'm not sure the island had to be that long - it is definitely an obstacle to the refrigerator. Making it a little shorter at the range end would help immensely in traffic, especially as people are walking back and forth in real life. It's always a challenge when there are windows and doors and room connections going on, to find places for appliances, so I understand why the refrigerator is placed there. 

That said, which way should the refrigerator be hinged? Given the location of the sink and range, possibly the other way.

I may have added a cabinet that sits ON the counter to the far right of the sink which would also be more of a furniture look than what appears to me to be too large (wide) of a cabinet in that location. Given the elegance of the kitchen and breakfast room, to my point of view, that cabinet just appears to have too much of a "box" look. It's subjective, for sure.

Very cool lighting and love the turquoise ceiling! It was a fantastic event. What do you think of this kitchen? Would you change anything?

New Kitchen Ideas That Work - Book Review

New kitchen Ideas That Work, by Jamie Gold is, simply, a good book, a great reference, and a source of inspiration for the entire kitchen design process. Upfront, I've got to say that I heartily endorse this book as a go-to manual for homeowners to get those "kitchen ducks" in a row before you spend your first (or second, first being this book) dime on your kitchen.

As I've said before on this blog, I've lost a friendship over choosing not to review a book on kitchen design due to its errors and overall sub-par quality and have declined to review another book by an author I did not know for the same reason. Thus, I take the subject matter very seriously, being a certified kitchen designer for many years. 

I know the author of New Kitchen Ideas That Work, Jamie Gold, quite well. We have been friends and colleagues for a number of years. Of course, I must also mention that images of one of MY kitchens is in this book. That's all well and good, but still, if this book did not meet my standards, overall, for kitchen design information, I would absolutely pass on doing a review. And, as noted above, my knowing the author has no influence on my decision to review this book.

 

Review Notes

I love the way the chapters are organized. The topics have a progression which makes perfect sense within he framework of a kitchen project and makes it easy to understand the process and to find the information you need. The tone of the text is conversational and the content is easy to understand, making it read almost like a novel - it's actually a pleasant read! You feel as if you are being spoken to by a trusted design professional whom you have known a long time and have a lovely rapport with. 

The reader is not being told to replace everything, but to pick and choose - wisely, with recommendations: choose a facelift or complete remodel which, of course, also relates to budget issues. Jamie walks you through this decision making process and many others throughout the book.

Islands, work zones, appliances, layout, storage must all be considered together, at once, in the preliminary design process. Jamie addresses each of these issues in depth, making sure the homeowner asks himself/herself the right questions to get to the essence of the appropriate design solutions for his/her/their individual lifestyle needs. Let me tell you - these are big issues as most people only do a kitchen once! 

There is a wealth of design information covering styles and themes of kitchens as well as how individual materials nudge the design in one direction or another. In addition, the properties of many materials are discussed including durability, cleaning, preparation and specialized installation requirements. Jamie goes beyond noting the most common materials used in kitchens and notes materials that you may not have heard of.

Decorative details - a decorative "layer" that I have always said must be considered at the start of the design process, are discussed. Beautiful images are seen throughout the book providing information and inspiration. In fact, I would definitely say that this book has equal parts of each - information and beautiful visual inspiration.

There is so much more good content that I do not have room to mention in this post. Sinks, faucets, lighting, backsplashes, the role of technology in kitchens and more, more, more. Your money will be well spent with and is a smart initial investment toward your new kitchen project.

Cosentino Materials For Kitchen And Bath - It's More Than Silestone!

Last week I went to the latest Cosentino Center opening in Westchester. It was a good reminder that Cosentino, a name so often synonymous with Silestone, offers so many more materials than engineered stone. I mean, did you know that Cosentino offers soapstone? Luxury marbles and granites? And much, much more. 

And did you even know that Cosentino has 20 centers around the U.S. with material in-stock? I did, but I rarely thought about it since there was not one near me, until I received the invitation to come to the opening in Westchester and was so impressed to see this facility and all it offers designers, trade professionals and homeowners.

Usually, when a client considers engineered stone for their home, as one example, they see very small samples. To be able to see full slabs is an entirely different experience. It completely changes the look of the material's pattern and texture.

It's an enormous difference when one looks at a small sample compared to looking at a whole slab. What may have been a noticeable pattern in the material changes to a much smoother, flowing look. Trust me, it is critical to see a surface material for your home in as large a piece as possible. Tiny samples are misleading. Here is a look at a Cosentino Center!

There are many centers in convenient locations around the country - it's a valuable resource for a once-in-a-lifetime project!

KBIS 2013 - Top Kitchen Trends

The kitchen and bath industry show, known as KBIS, just ended in beautiful New Orleans. I take this annual pilgrimage each year (maybe this was my 22nd or 23rd annual show) to see new products, learn new things, see friends and otherwise, just immerse myself in the world of kitchens for 4 days.

While the kitchen show has decreased in size, there are always fantastic products to discover as well as trend dots to connect. After all, kitchen design IS fashion for the home! It's not work for me, it's all about discovery.

I sat down after the show, this week, and went through my images (over 500) and put together a comprehensive slideshow on what I believe to be the coming trends this year and beyond. You can flip through the slideshow below, but to see it full screen, follow this link on KBIS 2013 Top Kitchen Trends. 

I have a list of trends I spotted in slide #11, but the big takeaway for me was this: We are moving toward "The Practical Kitchen". Practical is good - it's efficient, it's easy access, it's simple, it makes sense.

So many products were designed around a practical point of view. This also means easy to use and easy to clean. Of course, this design concept can be said to be closely connected to Universal Design, and in fact, it is, but for those who may not be familiar with that term, they will surely see a pleasant and sort of, people/ergonomic-centric focus in new products from many brands, large and small.

Consumers may not even realize some of the products were made to make life easier, as so many products were also so good looking, and that's just fine. When you consider that knobs are back (what could be easier than turning a knob), matte finishes are emerging, storage aids inside cabinetry are being designed to enable even easier access than ever before, with lighting in the kitchen designed to illuminate anything at all that needs to be lit, I can report that life in the kitchen just got BETTER.

There were some stand out products for me, which I will put together in a post in the near future, but trust me, this slideshow gives you as comprehensive a look at KBIS as I think you can find!

Here's an image I took while in New Orleans, and I'll have to do a post with some of my images. Talk about design inspiration? Just take a walk in New Orleans!