Kitchen Ventilation - Copper Hoods

I received this really cute email yesterday from an artisan who makes hand crafted copper hoods. Here it is:

"Hello, I am writing this letter in regards to a product I make that I think you might be interested in, Copper hood ranges, at the moment, I make them in my spare time but I would like to eventually make it a full time job, there a few different styles I can make and I attached a couple pictures.  By trade I am a welder and I learned how to make and design them while working for a company in Alberta Canada, I try to offer the the best possible price."

The fabricator said he works only with design professionals because there are so many critical dimensions involved into custom making a hood, including issues with shape and proportion. Pairing a hood with the proper ventilation appliance becomes a whole separate challenge as well, in terms of dimensions, cfms, ducting options, and more. Likewise, he prefers to communicate with a design professional on finishes, material properties, and all other details mentioned.

Design pros, contact me for further information.

 

 

New, Cool, Refrigerator From Fagor

Just got word that Fagor is introducing a 24" no frost refrigerator. To me, this is huge news, as I'm in the middle of looking for appliances to plan into my 7' x 7' NYC apartment kitchen. So, I'm doubly excited about this product! Let me tell you a few things about it.

It is 24 x 24 x 78 3/4, meaning that it is true cabinet depth, a huge plus for small kitchens (eyes upward in thanks.) It is a sleek, modern, design, and made of high end, and finger print resistant, stainless steel.  

More features include unbreakable glass trays and drawer fronts, and independent compartments with electronic regulation. The independent "multi fresh" and "double fresh" drawers allow for two unique environments within the refrigerator, great for keep vegetables crisp and meats and seafood at another level of moisture. 

According to Fagor, it is the healthiest refrigerator on the market. Equipped with a unique BIO filter, an antibacterial/odor eliminating filter with indicator keeps the refrigerator hygienic by retaining mold and bacteria from the circulating air. A protection cover disables such bacterial particles from settling and growing, allowing foods to remain fresh for longer periods of time. 

Even more features include fast cooling (automatically detects and adjust large food additions at once) and super freezing capabilities with a vacation setting, changing the refrigerator temperatove to 57F, preventing odor and bacteria, keeping the freezer at normal temp.

An open door alarm and beeper alarm with warning light indicate any sudden interruption of the cold chain. And, it is said to be less noisy due to one generator source for fridge and freezer. No word on energy star rating, they are currently performing the energy star tests, so that information is not complete.

The unit will be available December 2007. List price is $1699.  

Custom Kitchen Cabinetry - Draper DBS

I'm pleased, and very excited, to announce a new line of cabinetry that I have recently welcomed into my design practice. The cabinetry is Draper DBS, located in Perkasie, Pennsylvania, a region of Pennsylvania with a rich tradition of fine cabinet making.

I went to the factory a couple of months back. There is no direct highway to the factory. It's literally over the river and through the woods! One is forced to slow way down (not so easy for me) to go over the covered bridge, through the wonderful village called Frenchtown, up and over big, winding, hills, and to stop and buy a quart of fresh picked strawberries at the local farm. Slow down, I did. But, I happily digress.

I wanted a line of cabinetry for kitchens (and other rooms) that was different, even exciting, yes, I'd say exciting is a good word. I wanted a line rich with authenticity and character. A line with depth, in terms of fine craftsmanship and creative thinking. I found it. I'm very happy to have Desire To Inspire introduce this line on their blog today, and I will follow up with a few other, totally different, looks than what Desire To Inspire is showing today.

What makes me really excited about this line is two things:

First, as noted above, Draper DBS is a thinking company. I was told over and over that if I can imagine it, they will build it, and will do so gladly.  Typically, cabinet companies have their way of doing things. Some factories are willing to deviate from standards more than others. I only choose companies to work with who are willing to accommodate my and my clients' needs, and Draper DBS is one of those (few) companies who will accommodate me.

 
Second, they are a truly creative company. They do any style with aplomb. Modern, artsy, traditional, European farmhouse, cottage, anything. So, on to some examples here (trust me, you'll want to click on that link, above) and below, examples of more traditional styling. Wood species such as alder, butternut, mahogany, and others, (yes, others) create a welcome alternative to the usual pine, maple, oak, and cherry. Bill Draper, owner, having a dose of "hippy" in his past, just adds to the open and creative dialogue he enjoys having with the carefully selected designers who work with his cabinetry.

A little something from The Robb Report on Bill Draper.  

Before I forget, do you know what is one of the most wonderful things I found? The talented cabinetmakers can hand plane the doors, which creates an amazing, one of a kind, and highly authentic, look - see the image. They also have an aged, painted finish which consists of 14 layers of paint to get that great, old, layered paint finish. I don't know about you, but to me, considering this stylish cabinetry plus the rich, authentic, possibilities below, this is a WOW and gets me excited all over again!

Kitchen Tile Styles!

Here is a collection of diverse tile styles that I have become familiar with. I would urge you to look deeper into the links, as there are many wonderfully inspiring tiles quite UNLIKE these that you see here as representatives. Take a look!

The first tile is by a company called Vetro Mosaico.  Oddly, the text says it is tiles for showers, pools, and spas. I think they forgot about the kitchen! They offer a beautiful variety of colored glass, including the ability to do custom blends. They also show glass pebbles, which are very interesting, with an organic sort of look.

The next lovely tile product I'd like to show you is by Tilevera. Tilevera uses 500 master painters to create works of art, all of whom are trained in the heritage of Spain's Talavara region. The tiles are exquisitely deisgned and hand painted. You must look at this collection! 

And, last but not least, some really really (I can use that word twice, right?) truly artistic mosaic tiles and murals from Manet Tiles. Each piece is the result of the time and effort of skillful artisans who are committed to working the clay and natural stone into works of art. I show two here to showcase the diversity in their line. The work is just fantastic. If you are one who wants art in your kitchen, well, this is one great way to get it!

Decorative Kitchen Pot Racks & Lighting

A large catalog came in the mail yesterday and when I opened it I knew it was something special. It's a company called 2nd Ave. Design.  They have some really interesting products. They seem to move from Mediterranean rustic to Soho funk. Let me show you some of the things I thought you'd like to see. It's a cinch to coordinate various types of lighting, sconces, chandeliers, pendants, with the pot racks. I actually like to mix finishes, I think it's more interesting, and their finishes are beautiful.

 

And take a look at these finishes, great selection:

KBIS 2007 - Faucet Action!

Back to showing more KBIS items after a too long hiatus! Some companies bring press releases to KBIS on products they have introduced some months back, even as early as the fall of the year before, with KBIS taking place in the spring. As I go through the press kits, I'm not looking for the newest product release dates, although that's always fun and "now." But, with hundreds and thousands of products out in the marketplace, I won't NOT show a product because it's already been introduced some months back. If I think it's cool (thus "new/cool products" category) meaning either good value, good design, finish, or whatever strikes me about it, I'll show you. It may not be THE newest introduction or THE most modern/innovative styling. I just have to think there is something special about it. That's good enough!

So, I saw this Price Pfister faucet, and thought, wow, that's traditional, affordable, Price Pfister? I mean, I don't associate PF with fashion forward high end innovation. But, this faucet looks pretty awesome to me, and you can bet it's not going to cost $1,000 either. I think it's very good looking.

This "Ashfield" pull down ergonomic sprayhead includes an innovative ‘anti-splash’ spray volume control. This allows users to adjust spray volume to a desired pressure level between 20 and 100 percent. The sprayhead also lets homeowners toggle easily between spray and stream modes. Equipped with 360-degree swivel spouts that permit custom handle positioning, the Ashfield™ single-control, kitchen pull-down faucets incorporates a 75-inch nylon hose with ball swivel spray connection that allows for maximum flexibility. Plus, longer levers on the single-handle design provide users a better grip and improved access.

MGS Designs has some great looking contemporary faucets. The VelaD, new for 2007, has a sort of industrial look to it which I like. Crisp/flat edges but with curves. I'm crazy about the pull out spout.

MGS Designs is one of the only "true stainless steel" fixture manufacturers offering products in North America. An integral component of the MGS design philosophy is innovative functionality.

An interesting note, prior to assembly, each element is hand polished. No additional materials such as brass or sheet metal, thus 100% polished stainless steel or matte SS.  

Graff's new faucet introduction (among others) for 2007 is the very cool Oscar kitchen faucet. Two versions of this faucet are offered, one with the black trim, which is my personal favorite, and one without the black trim, called Steelnox. I love the black half circle holder under the control!

This faucet is constructed of solid brass and designed in a minimalist style for modern kitchens. It has a pull down spray/stream configuration. Another good thing, it carries a lifetime warranty on all mechanical aspects of the entire product line. Nice, right? 

Seen at KBIS - kitschy kitcheny kolors from SMEG

SMEG is a hugely popular appliance manufacturer in Europe. I know I see it all over Denmark, when I go there and visit the kitchen showrooms, so that's MY sharp eyed reporter's factoid!

SMEG is introducing its line of appliances in the USA now, after having received all the various certifications. The line, aesthetically is very interesting, and I mean that in the most positive way. They're bold, they're sexy, they're highly functional and stylish. And, they do not only show retro appliances, like this beautifully simplistic retro refrigerator we see here. They have many modern appliances in their line too, custom designed by an architect, as you will hear in my podcast.  Look to SMEG for BOTH modern and retro appliances. They will be introducing a refrigerator with a larger freezer section soon.

I know Scrappy Girl from Domino has a possible retro fridge fixation in her future kitchen plans. With Scrappy Girl in mind, I sought out a bit more information via my podcast. I'm glad I did...there's not too much information on the website!

Scrappy, I gotta tell you, though, I DID see another booth with colorful retro appliances, the only other booth I saw with them. I was looking from afar, taking a needed rest at the end of the second day, feet up, pointing weakly to that area, (all for the cause and dramatic effect) and then it left my mind and I inadvertently walked in another direction! Of course, I remembered much later what I missed. Maybe I'll find it in a press kit!

SMEG REFRIGERATOR INTERVIEW

KBIS 2007 - Cool Woven Copper Kitchen Backsplash

This display just stopped me in my tracks! I love anything woven, textural, hand crafted, and this look gives it all to me. By Frigo, it is woven copper with a fired, burnished finish to get that wonderful rainbow effect.

I'm not sure it's a look to go everywhere, it may be too strong, but at the very least, a great accent. I'm picturing it as the facing for a hood right now. Maybe the back of an island, that comes to me too. So many great places this product can be used.

And the best news is that the maintenance is to simply use warm water to wipe up spills and spots, no special process, cleaners, and so on. Good, right? 

The manner in which it was displayed on the show floor wasn't so great, as the image shows, but look past that and imagine the possibilities!

Kbis 2007 New Products - Siemens Appliances

Siemens is launching an entire new line of appliances in summer, 2007. This is a stunning and highly functional line of appliances, as I observed at KBIS in Las Vegas last week.  Take a look at images of the new line of appliances, and listen in to the podcast on Siemens. I loved what I saw! More information as it becomes available (hello, UPS, deliver the show press kits please??)

Siemens flikr images from the show floor

And, Siemen's podcast from the show floor: 

Siemen's Podcast

Kbis 2007 New Products - Perlick, Gaggenau, Blanco

Here are the first of my images of KBIS 2007! Images are from the Perlick, Gaggenau, Blanco, and Thermador booths. I have access to pretty pictures from press kits, but you know, sometimes I just like the "live from the floor" feeling of the images, so I'll include both types of images.

Also, in this first kbis 2007 flikr set is Thermador's fabulous booth. I'll talk more about Thermador's introductions soon, but for now, enjoy.

Now, hear a podcast of the new sink introductions from the Blanco booth, and follow along in the images included above. Any questions, let me know!

Just fyi, what happens at the show is that there is a press room, where most of the (smart) exhibitors put together a press kit, a folder with information on their new product introductions for members of the media. Then, we go around the room, pick out the press kits which interest us, put them in a box (in my case two large boxes) and send the boxes to our address. I'm not sure just when my boxes will arrive, I'm guessing Monday or Tuesday, so for this particular post, I don't have specific information to fill in on new product introductions, and some of the websites linked (shame shame) do not have their current press releases up either. So, when I get the press kits, I'll fill in the blanks so you know more specifically, what you were looking at in my flikr images. 

For now, enjoy the images, podcasts, and links! 

BLANCO PODCAST

Going To The Kitchen Show in Vegas, Baby!

It's Friday at 5:45 pm, the week is offically closed, although I'll be working my head off till the moment I leave early Sunday morning for Vegas to attend KBIS!

I'll be working hard, trying to fit everything in, the fabulous food samples on the show floor by top chefs like Marcus Samuelsson, from the major appliance manufacturers, the massages from Moen at their press event, the press events at top nightclubs...and, oh yes, the products at the booths, l promise to find all kinds of great stuff and dutifully report back. Whether from major manufacturers, or very small, wonderful artisans, the show has it ALL. You'll hear from me during the show!

I got this great new voice recorder thing that does something special with podcasts, so if I can figure it out, I'll be putting up podcasts. I hate my voice (doesn't everyone?) played back, but I'll sacrifice vanity to give you information right from the sources. I'm so revved up for this as I am every year....see you in Vegas, baby!

March Toward KBIS - New Kitchen Design Products!

Du Verre hardware is launching three new collections. Sophisticated new works called Kuba and Primitive have been designed exclusively for Du Verre by the innovative designer, Clodagh. Rio is an exotic, sculptural series created by Gina Lubin, founding partner of Du Verre Hardware.

I'll be looking for this at the show, looks just beautiful, doesn't it? I always call hardware "jewelry", and I'd put any of these on a chain around my neck! -susan

 

Erin Adam's new tile collection at Ann Sacks

Erin is known for her award-winning custom mosaics and innovative fused glass tile patterns, which have elevated surface tile design to an entirely new level. She has designed several notable collections, including Quilts, a hand-made glass mosaic tile line inspired by Americana folk art and 1960s graphic design; Lume, a lighting collection; Facet, a glass mosaic tile line inspired by ornamental block walls and 1960s wallpaper; and Luna, a fused glass and aluminum tile line.

I love the hand made quality of these tiles, can you see in the image? They look gorgeous! I see tile happening in larger ways throughout the home. I think more risks are being taken with tile than ever before, and it can truly be seen as an art form such as we see here.  -susan 

march toward KBIS - new product introductions

My separate KBIS folder is packed full of emails, I lost count. Invitations to special press events, new product information, sneak peeks...I love this time of year! Spring is definitely the kitchen season and I'm all geared up for the show, as I am every single year. So here are a few of those sneak peeks.

GE

First up, GE is launching a new line of appliances called the GE Cafe Series. "The new GE Café series offers a suite of appliances for those who not only love the look of stainless steel-wrapped technology but who actually love to cook and entertain family and friends. The freestanding line of appliances also makes this an easy upgrade for nearly everyone."

Not everyone wants or can afford high end built in appliances. It's very important to have a source for appliances "for the rest of us," as my clients ask for from time to time.  -susan

Kalamazoo

"Kalamazoo Outdoor Gourmet introduces the Edo, a new sculptural grill inspired by Japanese design and cuisine. Form meets function as the lustrous, hand-textured stainless steel top glides open to reveal the controls and the 432 square-inch grilling surface. Closed, the sleek, simple form could be mistaken for a beautiful outdoor table or piece of sculpture.

There are two control zones with a total of 50,000 BTUs, powered by Kalamazoo’s signature cast stainless steel dragon burner system. The fuel tank is concealed in the base of the grill. Liquid propane is standard; natural gas is an option. Hidden casters make for easy movement. Kalamazoo’s unique customized grilling surfaces are also available."

With outdoor kitchens so hot, it's great to see some innovative designs for grills. I'd much rather gaze out my kitchen window and look at something scuptural than a big, old, common grill...or kettle. But, that's just me. Very cool. -susan

Swanstone

"Quite possibly the most innovative sinks in the world. Swanstone's newest granite kitchen sinks blur the lines between single and double bowls, offering the advantages of both. The Ascend and Large/Small Bowl combine the most sophisticated design with the functionality, durability, and quality for which they are known."

As a kitchen designer, I know Swanstone to be a well made, well priced, reliable product. I think these sinks have style and function going for them. I'll be looking at them at the show. It's all about the low divider between bowls offering more options for our favorite activity, washing stuff as efficiently as humanly possible. -susan

 
KWC

For that new sink, you need a new faucet...

"This smart new kitchen faucet has an operating lever made of robust yet astonishingly thin, hardened stainless steel. The innovative movement system means that joints and edges which could become dirt-traps are kept to a minimum, while the stream of water flows elegantly and precisely. The “highflex” spring hose, with its accurate and wear-resistant flat-topped spout also swivels 360 degrees.

The KWC ONO HIGHFLEX also produces two types of water stream because of the unique two-stage operating system. At the first stage, a practical filtered stream, and at the second, a powerful pressurized stream for removing tough food residues."

To me, it looks useful and stylish. I happen to appreciate clean lines and the beauty of simplicity. The combination of straight lines and curves is also an interesting aesthetic. While at KWC, check out Eve as well. susan  

march toward kbis...new product introductions

Here is a sneak peek at new products being shown at KBIS...

Delta's newest kitchen faucet: The Allora

"What makes the Allora stand out is the completely new magnetic closure that joins the pull-down spray to the body of the faucet. Now, consumers can enjoy the convenience of a pull-down spray, without the extra step of twisting and locking the spray head into place because the magnetic closure engages the spray head and wand in a snap."

 
Me, I think that's neat. Another one of those thing that make you say, why didn't they think of that before?? -susan 

EVERPURE....S.Pelligrino, watch your back!

"Everpure unveils the latest in home water filtration with the launch of its Carbonated Chiller. Join us for an exclusive tour of this industry-first, and experience a delicious Italian soda the way it was meant to taste: with crisp, clean Everpure-filtered carbonated water. "

That's my cue to stop by the booth at KBIS and check it out, which I will be sure to do. -susan

The Padova, BYOM (Bring Your Own Materials) a customizable hood

"A new concept from Fu-Tung Cheng is designed to be customized with the materials of the homeowner’s choice. So whether they prefer mosaic tiles, ribbed glass, or the many possibilities Italian Marmorino plaster, a homeowner can work with their own designer or one of Zephyr’s seasoned designers to make Padova a signature addition to any home. Specifications: Size: 42”, 48”, 54” Internal blowers: 600 cfm External blower: 1000 cfm"

I like the idea of being able to create a transitional piece like this...adding materials, particularly in the more warm or rustic areas, which would add a very exciting eclectic element to this sculptural, thoroughly modern, hood. Imagine barn wood veneer? Why not? Antiqued copper or zink, so many possibilities.  -susan

Kitchens In The Blogosphere

Kitchens are popping up like spring flowers around the blogosphere. All sorts of good stuff I am finding on kitchen design, kitchen products, kitchen remodeling too.

I was almost blown away when I saw images of Julia Child's kitchen on The Happy Living Blog. I suppose the kitchen is pure function! I remember hearing about the pegboard somewhere being in Julia's kitchen. Here is a link to the exhibit at the Smithsonian of Julia's kitchen. Thanks for this reminder of this interesting kitchen! And, what is this about a kitchen consultation you were at, as seen on your blog? Keep me in the loop!

 

 
A great segue to The Kitchen at Apartment Therapy, filled with not only recipes, but lots of stuff for the kitchen, including tips on products, cooking methods, and more.

What really blew me away this morning were the images on Desire to Inspire. The kitchens! They're filled with soul, and earthy textures. Eclectic, with pieces of this and that, thrown together, yet, warm and welcoming, which is what a kitchen should be, right? The image is from Desire to Inspire, by Elle Decor.

Luxist is talking about this new product from LG Electronics. It is a combination toaster/microwave and toaste/coffee maker in two different models  I suppose there is something to be said for saving space, and the toaster is wide enough for bagels, a good thing. They are not overly wide in width either, compared to other microwaves. Makes you go hmmmm....

All around good stuff too in Appliance Notes.  This blog is authored by my friend, Peggy, and I think she'll be coming up with all kinds of interesting pieces of good information in this new blog of hers. Take a look.