Products For Kitchen Inspiration
Here are a few things, either new or cool, that I think are definitely worth noting.
First, take a look at this receptacle. Good for an island situation or other areas around the kitchen. It makes countertop receptacles possible. Not for every installation, but I can think of a few it would be perfect for, a long island, for one. This kitchen receptacle will do a good job being sealed off from liquid spills. By Doug Mockett & Company.
Look at these Harmony Wood tiles, by Anchor Bay Tile, aren't they cool? It's a real wood tile that is mounted with mesh, something your tile man will thank you for, that is, after he criticizes you for buying non ceramic tiles, of course. Just tell him they are made of wood from sustainable forests, and he'll feel better..we can dream.
And, I really love this product, American Clay. It is a natural earth plaster, made of natural clays, a green product, recycled and reclaimed aggregates, and contributes to Leed points on your project. It is such a beautiful, sort of suede like finish for your walls, and again, it is healthy for your home. I'm seriously thinking of using it in my home this spring. In fact, someone is coming to my home today to take a look at my walls!
I also love the idea of a chalkboard wall, or section. My immediate thought is to do a post just on chalkboards in kitchens, and I may, but I also know that if I say, good idea, it won't happen for a month, so here's the idea now. I'm also seriously thinking of doing this in my kitchen too. The image is by booizzy. Here are a couple of other places for inspiration: Martha Stewart (but, of course) and Apartment Therapy (always.)
Monday, March 31, 2008 at 07:07AM
Reader Comments (13)
Cool stuff, thanks.
I wish I had seen that pop-up receptacle thingie prior to removing bricks from my backsplash to install outlets! Would have solved lots of probs.
Love the look of those wood tiles but am wondering what kind of grout to use that wouldn't warp them.
I also love the look of chalkboard and have used it in children's bedrooms, but not in kitchens (yet). One client complained that "It never looks new after it gets used" and complained of it looking "chalky" which made me laugh. Is the concept better than the actual? I've never lived with it.
Glad you're blogging more frequently...
There are no walls in our kitchen - it's all windows, ending at the countertops. So we had two receptacles installed and I'm glad we did.
Wendy, bricks to display outlets? Send me pictures, girl! And, I don't know about the concept vs. actual. I also read of that complaint for the chalkboard and then I read of someone who said coke is the best cleaner for it. Maybe it's best to make samples up first.
Glad to be blogging again too. Had a busy couple of weeks and sometimes it's just good to take a brief break.
Connie, windows ending at the countertops...very European, LOVE that look. lovelovelove
Hi Susan -- who makes that first countertop receptacle? Thanks!
Rachele, sorry, I totally forgot, it's linked up above! Thank you for the reminder.
Oh dear. It says in bold "not for use in kitchens" :(
Here's the one for kitchens, I have to redo the link above:
http://www.mockett.com/default.asp?ID=4&action=detail&partCode=PCS34
Thanks!
Fabulous! It is now bookmarked for my current project, as well as my own kitchen which I will redo next year.
I think you are faster than my "refresh" button! :)
The Pop Up from Doug Mocket was unfortunately disappointing for my client on two accounts. It is really not the easiest push pull mechanism. I cannot recommend to those who have limited hand mobility or arthritis.
Secondly, the diameter of the unit itself is fairly large. Check drawers for clearance. It could become a problem with some top drawers.
I do hope they revise it for easier use.
Laurie, thanks very much for the feedback on this. I'd probably order one to see what it's like/if a client can live with it and check the return policy as well. Thanks.
The Mockett pop-up receptacle is not UL approved for permanent wiring because it is cord connected. NEC requires permanent wiring for required kitchen outlets, however the pop-up could be used as a supplemental outlet. Strictly enforced in New Jersey by DCA.
I have chalkboard paint in my kitchen (the enclosure "box" around the wall hood), and used to have it on an entire wall. IT is so fun to doodle on and write notes etc. But clients just have to be made aware that unless they draw something that is so beautiful it will never be changed (erased), it will be "chalky"....go figure. With chalkboard paint you can always just recoat for that "clean" look.
You can get chalkboard panels
http://www.usmarkerboard.com/Blackboards-Chalkboards.html
these can be easier to clean, but "limited" by panel sizes.
Walker Zanger makes some great wood tiles
Jim, thanks for your comment. I have not verified it, but I appreciate your feedback on this.
Robert, thanks so much for your interesting information! Part of me really wants to do a chalkboard thing somewhere. Yes, maybe panels are a good "trial" answer. Thanks so much.