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Expert offers Tips for “Greening” the Kitchen

Jun 22

Posted by Becky Sue Becker, CKD, CAPS in Appliances, Editorials, TRENDS

Falls Church, VA —  There’s a color sweeping the nation…and it’s green! Many people are beginning to understand the impact, or carbon footprint, that their lifestyle choices make on the planet. As a result, they’re starting to seek ways to reduce their impact. One way they can do so is by turning their attention to their kitchens and tweaking what products they use in there.

“The good news is that [changes made in the way people use their kitchens and to what products are used there don’t] have to break the bank. People don’t have to do a 180º overnight. Making small changes here and there can add up to big results, over time,” says Chef Paul F. Magnant, dean of culinary at Stratford University, here.

Here are a few tips from Chef Magnant to help you start greening your kitchen:

* Start with what you bring into the kitchen. Buy as much food that is locally produced as you can so that fuel isn’t wasted trucking it to you. And forgo the paper-or-plastic debate by sticking to reusable bags you take to the store.
* Skip the disposables. Whether it’s for a picnic or a party, opt for utensils, dishes and bakeware that can be reused to save on resources. Invest in a set of cloth napkins, and turn old sheets, towels or clothing into rags for cleaning by cutting them into small pieces.
* Keep it going. Stick a wicker basket in your kitchen to contain all of the items destined for recycling. Once the day is over or the basket is full, just take it to the larger bins to be sorted.
* Recycling saves a lot of items from heading to landfills, and reduces the amount of garbage at your curb each week. You can also reuse your raw vegetable left-overs and scraps by setting up a composting system and using the collected matter in your garden.
* Drink home water. Skip buying the bottles of water and invest in a water-filtration device for your kitchen. You’ll save a lot of money in the end and will avoid adding to the water-bottle problem our country faces.
* Clean green. Save money by using natural cleaning supplies and keep unnecessary chemicals out of the environment at the same time. Take a spray bottle and put equal parts water and distilled vinegar in it; this can be used as an all-purpose cleaner for everything from counters to sinks.
* Think big. When it’s time to buy new appliances, opt for ones that are energy-efficient by specifically looking for the ENERGY STAR endorsement. ENERGY STAR is a government-backed initiative that ensures you’re buying an energy-efficient product. Bigger isn’t always better, especially if you don’t need the extra room. Smaller appliances will shave money off your bill each year.

“Nobody is going to make all these changes overnight,” adds Magnant. “But making a couple each year will have your kitchen as green as can be before you know it. We what save, saves us!”

Stratford University’s culinary arts program offers several degrees, including concentrations in baking and pastry, as well as advanced culinary arts. The school also offers non-degree public one-day culinary courses covering such topics as beginner baking, knife skills, vegetarian cooking and cake decorating, as well as parent-and-child cooking.

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20 Ways to Save Water Without Sacrificing Performance

May 23

Posted by Becky Sue Becker, CKD, CAPS in Editorials, Plumbing Products

Go the extra mile and help clients reduce water use – you can save them money and help protect the environment.

Bath

  • Choose fixtures certified to meet WaterSense criteria, which offer a flow rate of 1.5 gallons per minute (gpm), compared to an industry standard of 2.2 gpm. WaterSense is a partnership program sponsored by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency that aims to decrease indoor and outdoor water use through water-efficient products and simple, water-saving practices. All of Moen’s lavatory faucets are certified to meet WaterSense criteria.
  • Replace 3.5 gallons per flush (gpf) toilets with newer 1.28 gpf models when remodeling an older home. The WaterSense certification is currently available for high-efficiency toilets as well as faucets. Toilets can use 28 percent of a home’s water according to some estimates.
  • Consider dual-flush toilets. Users can conserve water by choosing a flush with less water for liquid waste.
  • Read consumer reviews and choose toilets that consistently do the job with one flush. Be aware that higher price doesn’t always mean better performance.
  • Showers can account for 20 percent of indoor water use. You can slash that percentage that by replacing each industry standard 2.5 gpm showerhead with a showerhead certified to meet WaterSense criteria such as Moen’s Envi™ Eco-Performance Rainshower. The Eco-Performance line includes 12 models, with flow rates of 1.75 or 2.0 gallons per minute (up to 30% less than the industry standard). Several of these showerheads feature Moen’s innovative Immersion® technology – a self-pressurizing system that increases the force and flow of water delivery.
  • Consider products such as Moen’s ioDigital shower or vertical spa, which includes a water-saving setting that really earns its keep in the home bath.
  • Add an aerator to mix air and water to reduce flow without cutting pressure, if you can’t replace the faucet. They’re easy to install. Aerators for the bath should have a rating of 1.0 gpm max.

Photo Credit: Moen Incorporated
Moen Envi™ Three Function Eco-Performance Showerhead

Photo Credit: Moen Incorporated
Moen ioDigital™ Shower

Kitchen

  • Add faucet aerators (2.2 gpm rating is adequate) to existing kitchen faucets to conserve water without reducing pressure.
  • Recommend ENERGY STAR®-qualified dishwashers, which use a third less water than non-qualified models.
  • Suggest a dishwasher that does a good job cleaning, so the homeowner doesn’t have to pre-rinse dishes.
  • Recommend refrigerators that dispense chilled water, which can eliminate the wasteful habit of running tap water to cool it before drinking.

Laundry

  • Encourage homeowners not to buy a bigger clothes washer than they really need. Although water-saving front-loading clothes washers are the obvious choice, many people will buy a larger washer just to accommodate special situations (such as the two weeks the kids will be home from college).

Yard

  • Recommend employing water-efficient landscaping practices such as planting drought-tolerant plant species and grouping together plants that need similar amounts of water.
  • Suggest mulching trees and plants to help the soil retain moisture and reduce watering needs.
  • Use as little fertilizer as possible – it can increase plants’ water consumption.
  • Recommend “smart” sprinkler controls, which monitor soil moisture levels and water the lawn only when needed.
  • Suggest sprinkler heads that throw large drops of water. Smaller droplets evaporate more before soaking into the ground.
  • Put covers on swimming pools to reduce evaporation and the need to add water.

Don’t forget the infrastructure

  • Install tankless water heaters. Whole-house models use less energy than a tank, and point-of-use models save water by heating it right under the sink, so there’s no need to run the tap while waiting for hot water to arrive.
  • Insulate the water pipes. Everyone recommends this, but a surprising number of builders and remodelers don’t do follow this advice.

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Why work with our Contractors?

May 3

Posted by Becky Sue Becker, CKD, CAPS in Editorials

I stumbled upon this article written by a fellow designer and I thought it would be very enlightening to my readers also….

On why we prefer to work with our own sub-contractors

By: Kelly Morisseau 01 May 2010 07:51 AM PDT

If you have a contractor or designer or any trade who is part of your remodel or building project, and you’ve heard the phrase, “We have a group of trades or subcontractors we prefer to work with”, here’s a thought on why you might want to stick with their selections.

It takes awhile to gather a group who understand your way of doing business, who sync with you to become a cohesive team. It’s easier to design and execute, because everyone knows the level of expectation. (Plus they get your jokes. Or at least pretend to.) It’s easier on the sub-contractors because you’re a known entity, and hopefully, if you’re doing your job right, you’re the type of company they’re proud to be associated with.

We have a marble tile splash being installed, the type of marble which varies from white to creamy with a brown undertone. Although we ordered some samples, we really didn’t know the final outcome so the outlets were specified in white. Yesterday, our electrician phoned. “The marble is really warm. The outlets look horrible.”  (This is a somewhat cleaned up version. *grin*)

He’d bought the outlets already—they’re already in. He knew that switching them out would be a pain, but we’re still at the pre-grouted stage, and that it would involve an extra trip to the electrical supply.

He called anyway.

I’ve worked with him for 8 years – he knows my tastes pretty well, and although he’s the first to say he doesn’t design, he has a good eye for color.

I asked if he would get the client’s opinion and we all agreed—he’s going to replace them next week with almond outlets. I owe him some Shark tickets or something. (Regular season, mister, regular season!)

Some of the contractors and electricians I know reading this might say, “So? I would have done the same.”  Of course you would—you’re at the level of experience and expectation that you probably wonder why anyone would just leave the white outlets glaring like reflectors. But I get 50-60 emails a day with approximately 10% from homeowners with tales of woe.

That’s why I write–so that hopefully the next group of homeowners who’ve never undertaken a remodel will understand when we say, “We have a group of trades…”

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Caring for your Granite

Feb 17

Posted by Becky Sue Becker, CKD, CAPS in Counter Tops, Editorials

Natural stone counter tops are known for their durability, some more than others, but they are mainly known for their natural beauty. To keep them looking great, they must be cleaned and well looked after.

This guide will give you a general idea of how to care for your counter tops and how to maintain their beauty.

Granite Island Top

The easiest way to keep your stone looking great is to avoid bad habits that will damage it. All stones are different and their differences require varying degrees of maintenance, but if you use proper cleaning procedures and follow general stone care you’ll eliminate most potential problems.

The Do’s

  • Clean up spills immediately. Wine, fruit juices, coffee, and sodas will leave stains if left alone for long periods of time. Cooking oils will also stain if not wiped up. Absorption of stains depends on the condition of your sealer.
  • Use hot water with a soft cloth or sponge for quick clean-ups. Soapy water will work but use a mild soapy water, as harsh detergents or oily dirty water can cause build up.
  • Use coasters under all beverages, bottles and cans. They will not scratch the surface and if using coasters on dense and/or properly sealed granite is not an absolute necessity but on marble it is critical. Coasters are just a good practice to protect all surfaces.
  • Use trivets and hot pads under hot pots and pans. It is impossible to burn or melt granite or marble countertops but the sealer can be damaged from excessive heat. Extreme heat can cause natural stone to crack or pieces to pop out.
  • Use cutting boards. This is more for the protection of your knives but also just to avoid the possibility of scratching the surface. Cutting on stone will dull your knives quickly. Heavy pressure on a good knife may mark the surface of granite and will mark marble.

The Don’ts

  • Do not use bleaches, glass cleaners and degreasers contain acids that will harm your countertops over the course of time. It will also degrade the sealer leaving the stone more prone to staining.
  • Do not use bathroom, tub and tile or grout cleaners. The powders and even the “soft” creams have abrasives that will scratch and dull surfaces.
  • Do not place toiletry products directly on your countertops. They can stain or etch the polish (especially on marble) leaving a ring. Protect your countertop by placing these items on decorative protective tray.
  • Do not stand or sit on top of your countertops. Natural stone countertops are very hard but they do not have any flexibility, so too much weight in one spot may cause the stone to crack.

Granite Island Painted Blue Kitchen

To sum up, clean your countertops with hot water and a sponge to wipe up spills and debris. Use a stone cleaner in the most heavily used areas, which will adequately clean d protect your countertops.

On a weekly basis, use a stone cleaner over the entire surface. Good habits and general knowledge of how to care to for your countertops are the best way to maintain and keep your counters looking great.

Seal your counter top annually to maintain the protection and to minimize the potential for stains. Sealer is easily applied at home and is available at most big box stores such as Lowes or Home Depot. Follow the directions on the container.

If you are interested in a lifetime warranty for your Granite, visit my post regarding Granite Shield!

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Eight Kitchen Cabinet Trends

Jan 26

Posted by Becky Sue Becker, CKD, CAPS in Cabinetry, Editorials

Think outside the box with these perennial and emerging kitchen cabinet trends ~
white hot

It may be the start of a new decade, but some kitchen cabinet trends are timeless. “Functionality is still number one with us,” said Pat Caulfield, AKBD, VP of sales & marketing at Keener Kitchen, a full-service kitchen and bath cabinet manufacturer and design firm with showrooms in Red Lion, PA, and Timonium, MD.

In addition, value and quality are more important than ever these days. “More and more people are bargain hunting,” Caulfield said. “This is a fashion industry, so people want ornamentation—but not over the top. It’s not fashionable now to be a blatant consumer.” She added, “People want items that are well-manufactured and will last.”

On top of this perennial trifecta of trends, some new kitchen cabinetry trends have emerged. Caulfield illustrates five recent cabinet preferences with photos of kitchen designs by Keener Kitchen.

A STREAMLINE DESIGN WITH CLEAN LINES

STREAMLINE DESIGN

“‘Transitional Contemporary’ is the new term,” said Caulfield. “Clients want something that will stand the test of time.” The use of heavy Tuscan-style moldings has really toned down, for example. “People still want moldings, but in an understated and traditional sense,” she said.

WHITE-HOT KITCHENS

white hot

“Ever since the Diane Keaton movie, Something’s Gotta Give, with that great white kitchen, we’ve seen a huge surge in that style,” Caulfield said. “It’s a throwback to grandma’s kitchen—white paint, inset door, bin pulls. People are searching for a level of comfort that is a throwback to what they remember.”

MAKING IT WORK FOR YOU

making it work


“Organization and storage units are very popular [hidden] inside cabinetry,” said Caulfield, “including Le Mans corner systems, ‘mixer lifts’ and pullout tray shelves.”

COORDINATING HARDWARE

coordinating hdwe

“Oil-rubbed bronze, brushed stainless and nickel—these are not going away because of stainless appliances,” Caulfield said. “People are sticking with hardware that goes with those.” Bin pulls, from contemporary to traditional, are still popular, as is mixing hardware.

ADDING CUSTOM ACCENTS TO CLASSIC DESIGN

custom touches

While homeowners may keep cabinet styles simple, they are adding interest with appliances and accessories. “Appliances are the new bling,” said Caulfield. “Microwaves, dishwashers, warming drawers—little luxuries are becoming important. A hot pink KitchenAid mixer can pop the space, but can be changed easily.”

All photos courtesy of Keener Kitchen. Article Written By Ellen Sturm Niz via Kitchen and Bath Design Trends From Kitchen and Bath Business Magazine – kbb.

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Winterizing Your Outdoor Kitchen

Nov 10

Posted by Becky Sue Becker, CKD, CAPS in Appliances, Editorials

winterize-outdoor-kitchenIf where you live experiences yearly frosts or snowfalls, it’s time to start thinking about winterizing your outdoor kitchen and its equipment. If you don’t experience frosts or snow, fall is still a good time to give your outdoor kitchen a good cleaning. Here is a list of tips that will help you keep your outdoor kitchen in perfect working order, no matter where you live.

FIVE GENERAL RULES

1. Clean it out. That means cleaning the interior and exterior of the grill, cabinets and refrigeration, including food and drinks in the refrigerators. If you can get to the back of the refrigeration unit, make sure you remove leaves, dirt, etc. that may have accumulated around the condensing unit.

2. Turn it off. If you have a sink or an ice maker, it’s time to turn off the water supply. Turn it off at the connection to the house. Allow the remaining water to run out of hoses or faucets. This prevents water from freezing inside the lines, causing ruptures and big repair bills.

3. Turn it off again. Outdoor refrigeration doesn’t work well when the outside temperature is colder than the refrigerator’s interior.  If the power cord is easily accessible, unplug the appliance. If not, turn off the circuit breaker serving the appliance.

4. Shine it up. Use stainless cleaner and polish on all exteriors except glass. Use the same cleaner and polish on all cabinet and refrigeration units (only if the interiors are stainless steel).

5. Go undercover. Use a synthetic material for the cover that does not trap and hold moisture and can withstand the elements.

winterize-outdoor-kitchen-2
DETAILED CARE

Refrigerators, Freezers, Wine Chillers and Beverage Centers

Appliances rated for outdoor use are engineered to withstand the elements and do not need to be brought indoors for the off-season, all refrigeration appliances do need to be turned off. Switch off your units before the temperature outside drops below the set cooling temperature or below freezing, whichever comes first.

Also…

• Empty out all refrigerated cabinets and thoroughly clean the insides with stainless-steel cleaner and polish.

• Switch off the power on each unit. Ideally, you should also unplug the units or flip the circuit off at the home’s electrical panel.

• Clean the exposed exterior surfaces with stainless-steel cleaner (DO NOT use abrasives), and give the units a nice coating of stainless-steel polish.

• Remove the front grill (toe plate) and clean behind it with a vacuum cleaner to remove any loose dirt or debris. Reattach the front grill.

• Leave your outdoor refrigeration uncovered. Accumulated moisture underneath a cover can damage the units.

Keg Tappers

Follow all of the recommended steps for a refrigerator, plus clean and drain all beer lines. Remove the kegs, empty or otherwise, and store them indoors.

Ice Makers

Should be winterized before the outside temperature drops below 45 degrees Fahrenheit.  Check your owner’s manual for specific recommendations.

• Switch off the power on the unit.

• Turn off the water supply line at your home’s shut-off valve and open the drain valve.

• Use compressed air or carbon dioxide to blow out the water supply line and the internal water circuit.

• Unplug the ice maker or turn off its circuit breaker in your electrical panel.

• Remove all ice from the storage bin, clean the bin and close the drain valve.

• Remove the front grill and clean the area behind it with a vacuum cleaner to remove any loose dirt or debris. Reattach the front grill.

• Leave your ice maker uncovered. Accumulated moisture underneath a cover can damage the ice maker.

Sinks and Other Plumbing

All water needs to be drained from the supply lines and faucets before winter sets in.

• Close the water supply shut-off valves and open the drain valves on both the hot and cold plumbing.

• Fully open the hot and cold taps.

• Blow compressed air or carbon dioxide in through the drain valves to force all remaining water out through the faucet.

• If desired, uninstall your faucet and store indoors. Cap off the supply lines.

• Thoroughly clean the sink according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

• Securely cover the sink to keep winter debris from filling it or entering the drain.

Grills

Grills withstand the elements and typically do not need winterized. Covering a grill during the winter is purely optional. It will help keep the grill clean, but check with the manufacturer of your grill to determine if it will withstand the elements without a cover.

Regardless of winterization, a thorough fall cleaning is recommended for keeping your grill in prime condition.

• Clean the exterior of the grill with a citrus-based, organic degreaser, followed by stainless-steel polish. Do not use anything abrasive to clean the exterior of your grill. Burnt-on sauce or grease on the exterior of the grill can be removed with the special Scratch-B-Gone kit.

• Remove any cooking grates, warming racks and hybrid grilling drawer(s) to freely access the burners and hopper. Use a brass or stainless-steel brush to clean the tops of the burners and slide any remaining debris down the hopper to the cleanout. Empty the cleanout.

• Re-season cooking surfaces each fall. Using a clean rag, wipe vegetable oil on both sides of the cooking grates. Place grates, warming racks and grilling drawers back into the grill, heat the grill to 500 degrees Fahrenheit with the hood closed. Turn down the burners to hold the temperature at 500 degrees Fahrenheit for about 20 minutes. When the surfaces turn brown or black, they are seasoned.

• When the grill is not in use, keep the hood vent closed.

• If the grill will not be used during the winter, turn off the gas supply.

Pizza Ovens

Like the grills, pizza ovens typically do not require any particular winterization. Covering the pizza oven is optional, but will help keep the unit clean. If using a cover, make sure it is a cover designed to let moisture escape.

• Clean the exterior of the oven with a citrus-based, organic degreaser, followed by stainless-steel polish. Do not use anything abrasive to clean the exterior of your pizza oven. Burnt-on sauce or grease on the exterior of the oven or interior of the door can be removed with a Scratch-B-Gone kit.

• Use a brass brush to remove any debris from the baking stone, brushing it off to the sides of the oven. There is no need to remove the stone for winter storage.

• Empty the crumb tray located at the bottom of your pizza oven.

• If the oven will not be used during the winter, turn off the gas supply.

Cooktops

To protect cooking grates during the winter months, season them and keep them covered with the factory-supplied stainless-steel cover.

• While the burner is cool, use a clean cloth to wipe the entire cast iron burner with vegetable oil. Light the burner and run on high, preferably with a wok in place, for 10 to 20 minutes until the oil is absorbed and/or burned off.

• Turn off the burner and put the stainless-steel burner cover in place.

• If the cooktop will not be used during the winter months, turn off the gas supply.

Cabinets

Stainless-steel outdoor kitchen cabinets will benefit from a coat of stainless-steel polish. Even if you have weather-tight cabinets that enable clean and dry storage throughout the winter months, be sure to remove all liquids from the cabinets before the first freeze. Now is also a good time to clean out the cabinets, removing anything that is expired, old or not needed. It is also a good idea to remove any cutting boards from their pull-out trays and store them inside the cabinets.

NOTE:  Most outdoor cabinets do not keep out damp air. The atmospheric humidity can be as high inside the cabinet as it is outside. Do not store high-quality knives or other rust-prone cooking equipment in the outdoor kitchen during the winter months.

Counters

Most countertop materials will benefit from a coat of sealer before winter hits. Check with your installer or fabricator for guidance.

Source: KBBonline.com

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2009 Kitchen & Bath Trends

Sep 29

Posted by Becky Sue Becker, CKD, CAPS in Appliances, Cabinetry, Counter Tops, Editorials, Plumbing Products

Want to know what the hottest trends in kitchens and baths are in 2009? The NKBA Design Competition received 678 entries, and after searching through all of them, the NKBA (National Kitchen & Bath Association) selected ten design elements that clearly stood out.

“The trends spotted in this year’s competition are a great example of what’s to come in kitchen and bath design,” said Suzie Williford, President, National Kitchen and Bath Association. “Each new trend will help turn a room into a well-designed, classic space.”

Based on the review of the design competition entries, the NKBA offers the top kitchen and bath trends for 2009:

Steel Counters
Stainless steel is emerging as a new countertop favorite in kitchen design by creating a sleek, modern look that ties in perfectly with stainless steel appliances. Its part of a styling trend which combines the ingredients of a commercial-style kitchen with the warmth of cherry cabinets and natural stone floor, creating a room that is efficient, yet comfortable.
Black and White Kitchens
Eschewing color, dramatic black and white color schemes are becoming the norm with its contrast to one another in both value and sheen. The versatility and functional design create visual interest while blending together for a simple feeling.
Mirror, Mirror Off The Wall
Flush-mounted bathroom wall mirrors are starting to yield to more creative placements. We’re seeing mirrors creatively popping up as freestanding furniture pieces, including back-to-back mirrors, sinks and faucets to provide a clear his-and-hers space.
Resin Panels
Tile and stone backsplashes are still popular but this year we’re seeing a number of designs with backsplashes made of interesting items such as fabric, mesh and bamboo, encased in plastic panel. These items create a unique look that complements the accents and countertops.
Tin Ceilings
Tin ceilings are being increasingly used to add more visual to kitchens and symmetrical focal points.
Floating Cabinets
To create a cleaner, more open feel, many of the latest bathroom designs are eliminating cabinet legs and toe kicks in favor of floating, wall-mounted units. This leaves a large open area beneath the cabinet that makes the room feel more spacious.
Stone Hearths
Huge, dramatic hearths made of natural stone are becoming more common in kitchens.
Shoji Screens
The Asian-influenced shoji screen is now gaining popularity in a number of kitchen designs as they provide separation between kitchens and other living spaces when needed, while still allowing light to pass through.
Chrome Is Back
After years of yielding to finishes like brushed nickel and oil-rubbed bronze, polished chrome is making a comeback, particularly in bathrooms.
Glass Elements
The use of glass was very prominent in the kitchens seen in 2009, but not in traditional places. Glass is turning up in countertops and backsplashes.

To see a slide show of supporting projects to the trends listed  CLICK HERE

Click on the logo below for more information on the NKBA.


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HGTV “Bang For Your Buck” – Brunt Kitchen

Sep 26

Posted by Becky Sue Becker, CKD, CAPS in Awards & Publications, Editorials

HGTV Bang For Your Buck

On September 25, 2009, Home & Garden Television aired the first episode of a kitchen designed by Becky Sue Becker, CKD.     Designer Vern Yip and a local real estate expert compare $70,000 kitchen renovations in Atlanta. They look at a contemporary kitchen with a floating bar, a contemporary Italian kitchen with an eclectic vibe, and a contemporary kitchen that went from purple to purely elegant!

The “contemporary kitchen with a floating bar” is the project that I had the distinct pleasure to be a part of.  Now granted I am non-bias, but I am quite proud of how the Brunt kitchen competed against the other 2 projects on the show.  I do think it is odd how the show critiques from a resale point of view.   Most homeowners that I work with make choices for their own personal needs/preferences.   In my opinion, if their needs are met and they truly enjoy the space, then their quality of life is better – and they indeed get the biggest bang for their buck.

Vern Yip was the most complimenting on the Brunt kitchen, a designer I highly respect – could I be any more proud? :)     I would like to address a couple of his critiques to illustrate that design is truly subjective, even among the best of designers :)   Vern was not fond of the choice of the glass tile as he thought it would be out of date in 5 years, whereas I foresee glass has just begun to hit the hot trends and has many years of appeal.  Its sustainable and timeless, and the color chosen here is a muted green so it lends to be very subdued and natural feeling.   Vern also suggested the idea that the refrigerator and dishwasher could have been kept stainless steel rather than covered with wood fronts to match the cabinets – to achieve a lighter feeling.   This was a consideration during the design process but it was over ruled because 1) wood fronts gave more continuity in the smaller space and 2) the maintenance of wood fronts is much easier than stainless steel.   The visual simplistic balance was critical, we did not wish to have the stainless steel be the main focal point.

Overall Vern offered compliments  on the microwave placement, the harmony of the finishes used throughout and the good balance of lighting.  If you missed the episode, check out the listings at the end of this blog for a re-run schedule.

Here is a BEFORE photo:

Brunt Kitchen Before

And AFTER:

Meredith Brunt Kitchen Renovation

Click HERE to see more photos of the Meredith-Brunt project.

My design statement for this project …

This 60′s kitchen was small, inefficient needless to say outdated. The home is contemporary mid-century style, so the first objective was to have the interior flow with the overall theme. Due to lack of options of the small  space with numerous doorways, the walls to the laundry room were removed and the washer and dryer were relocated to another area of the home. The sink was relocated to the larger existing window on the rear side of the house (old laundry area), and the old sink window was closed tooffer additional storage and a location for a large professional range.

To achieve a modern look, clean elements were used throughout. The dark, flat panel maple cabinetry set the stage to display the sophisticated glass tile backsplash and frosted glass cabinet doors, which carry warm hues of green. The raised glass counter top and island were designed with stainless steel stand offs to help keep a light visual flow while enhancing the balance of metal with the appliances and toe kick.

Xenon under-cabinet lighting, recessed cans, and sleek halogen pendants and sconces were strategically placed to enhance the elegant features, in addition to provide high quality task lighting. Furthermore, to improve the natural light source, the existing single door to the patio was increased to a double French door. The hardwood floors replaced the old tile, adding warmth to the room. And finally, the island received an exotic Zebrawood (referenced as Tigerwood on the HGTV show) counter top creating not only a focal point, but also it marries the colors of the oak floors and dark cabinetry.

With more space given to windows and doors, storage space and visual consideration were critical.   Simplistic continuity was key so wood fronts were used on the refrigerator & dishwasher, a microwave drawer was installed in the peninsula base cabinets to keep the eye view clean and floating shelves for a tv finished off the wall cabinet run.  These decisions helped achieve a well balanced and surreal theme.

In the end, Ben & Katie are proud owners of a kitchen with state-of-the-art products that added value and charm to their old mid-century style home.

Episode Information:
$70,000 Atlanta Kitchens Episode# HBFYB-207H
TUNE – IN:

  • September 25, 2009 9:30 PM e/p
  • September 25, 2009 1:30 AM e/p
  • October 06, 2009  5:30 PM e/p
  • October 20, 2009  9:30 PM e/p
  • October 20, 2009 12:30 AM e/p
  • November 15, 2009 2:00 PM e/p

Or click on the Logo below to get the newest air-time or to learn more about the show!

HGTV Bang For Your Buck

Contractor:  Parkman Properties, Atlanta, GA

Decorator:  Chris Holt Interiors, Atlanta, GA

Custom Cabinetry:  Private label by Designs By BSB

Granite Tops:  G&L Marble/Traditional Marble & Granite

Lighting:  Design Lighting in Atlanta

Glass Counter Top:  Creative Glass Concepts, Sugar Hill, GA

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Privacy you ask?

Aug 25

Posted by Becky Sue Becker, CKD, CAPS in Editorials, Product Reviews

PRODUCT REVIEW…in disguise!

One of the most interesting challenges I have had over the years when designing master bathrooms & suites is dealing with the privacy factor.    This is not only inherently a factor with homeowner’s who wish to have a open spa like bathroom, but also for those with smaller rooms looking to remove walls to create the illusion of a larger space.

So what are the options? In all of my experiences and research the most common ways to create privacy walls that offer some amount of light through has been through the use of glass, whether it be obscured (old fashion ripple, etched/frosted, patterned, etc) or the use of glass tile blocks.   There are numerous ways these are still used today, but the demand for new innovation & style has pushed way for new product and design.   Client’s are wanting personalization and fresh look.   If your desire fits your wish list, then read on…

My first product of choice is Lumicor®. This product is so creative, inspiring and innovative that it is yet to have any competition  (that I’m aware of course!).   The basics of the product is that it is a resin panel (eco-friendly by nature!) manufactured in various thicknesses, ranging from 1/16″ to 1″.    As for styles, the choices are astonishing and quite exciting!

Take a glimpse at a small range of designs they offer – woods, leaves, shells, and textiles to name a few!

The last photo above is one of my favorite applications in a master bath renovation I designed in the Spring of 2009.  The “before” plan was a typical, dated design that had the shower and toilet in a closed-in area, separated from the sinks.   With the use of the Lumicor Praire Grass Panel, privacy from the main bath area is still achieved – without sacrificing style!   The frame around the panel was custom made to match the other cabinetry throughout the room.   Here are a few additional views:

Lumicor prairie grass Lumicor Prairie Grass Panel

For more photos on this master bathroom renovation, and other great designs,

visit my online PORTFOLIO (page 4 = VanDyne project)

Before now Lumicor was well known in hospitality/commercial arenas for unique architectural panels.   But now Lumicor is available to the design community and the possibilities for residential design are near endless!  For more creative applications visit the manufacturer’s website:  Lumicor.com

Founded in 2002, Lumicor is a privately held company located in the Puget Sound area in Washington. The company has grown substantially over the last six years as a leader in the manufacturing, cutting, and fabrication of architectural panels, all produced at its facility in Renton, Washington. Today,  Lumicor leads the industry as the pioneer of high-quality architectural resin panels paired with unrivaled customer service. To view Lumicor’s product line and for more information visit www.lumicor.com

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Viking Appliances

Jun 5

Posted by Becky Sue Becker, CKD, CAPS in Appliances, Editorials

This past week I had the incredible privilege to spend 4 days in Greenwood, Mississippi… a town I had never heard of, and a state I had not visited!  This invitation was extended from HADCO, a respected Distributor in Suwanee, Georgia.   They are the exclusive distributor of Viking Appliances for the Southeast.hadco

The trip was a total of 14 designers from different areas of the Southeast, each with a diverse business model and experience – so the networking was an added bonus for all.   Numerous segments included in the 4 day trip included: training in the classroom, cooking in the demonstration kitchen, touring the cooking & refrigerator plants, cooking at the Viking Cooking School, touring the administration & design offices and a little fun history adventurous in the quaint town of Greenwood!

Viking_corp_logo_small

From the start it was apparent that we were going to be spoiled :)    Our day started and ended at The Alluvian – a beautiful boutique hotel built by the Founder/Owner of Viking.    The speakers, instructors  and most importantly the story behind it all were enlightening and entertaining!   What surprised me the most was learning that Viking is only a 18 year old company!   The founder, Fred Carl Jr., had a vision to bring commercial appliances into the average home ..per his wife’s desire!     It is clear that Fred is a man of great vision and honor.  Being a native of the small Mississippi Delta town, Greenwood, he chose his hometown Viking manufacturing.   Many said it would be impossible, but Fred would have it no other way.  He wished to give back to the community in which was home… his life.

Now 18 years later Viking is one of the most recognized brands in the nation.  They distribute to 80 different countries and employ over 1,400 people right in Greenwood, Mississippi!   Click HERE for the full Viking Story – you too will be amazed at the history!

So what did I learn besides Viking is one of the most admirable companies that manufacturers right here in the U.S. ?    I honestly was intrigued beyond my expectations during the product training.   Here are a just few various highlights that left a lasting impression on my views of Viking.

  • Viking refrigeration has 2 year FULL warranty that is extended to 3 years if installed by a certified installer!  Thereafter it has 6 years coverage on any sealed component AND the ice maker!  It does not stop there – the sealed components are extended to 12 years.
  • The outdoor grills are equipped with a TruSear™ burner that has 30,000 BTUs of searing infrared power!  You  can caramelize the outside of food and lock in natural flavors and juices like a professional!
  • Induction cooking has more benefits than just the infinite speed control and speed, the clean up is the easiest of all cooking equipment!  Since the heating process is only created via magnetic methods, the heat only occurs between the pan and the surface/element.   So spill overs or splashes do not get baked on, eliminating the need for tedious cleaning methods.
  • The Steam Oven requires no rough-in plumbing, making the possibilities of design/location and installation simple.    This unit is one of the most unique cooking equipment I have ever seen.  Whether you are looking to bake bread or steam your vegetables, you can be assured you are choosing the healthiest form of cooking!
  • The new dishwashers have an Exclusive five stage filtration & food waste removal system.  What this means that food particles are non-existent!  Additionally it has a 1/2 horsepower motor!
  • The convection ovens has the largest fan blade with Vari-Speed Dual Flow™ convection system.  The 2 speed system capable of turning the fan in both directions, giving even heat throughout the oven no matter how much food or which racks you use.  Also take the time to compare the oven size to their competition.  The 27″ oven is as large as a typical 30″!
  • The High Speed Convection Oven combines high-powered convection cooking with microwaves, cooking up to 80 % faster than conventional ovens!   The fan runs air through at 44 MPH !
  • The 48″ and 60″ Pro Ranges have 2 ovens, but did you know the smaller second oven has all the same technology?  It has the same great convection technology and has a proof mode!
  • The in-line ventilator system has an accessory called a Duct Silencer.  It is unbelievable how quiet a venthood becomes, even at the highest speed!  FYI: Most people think by using a remote blower makes a Vent Hood quieter, this is false.  The actual noise created is from the movement of air, not the motor of the unit.  The duct silencer is the first time this can truly be minimized!

Viking has more to offer than what meets the eye.  True quality and innovative technology.   Check out their full line of products including counter top appliances at:  www.vikingrange.com And my sincerist thanks to the Viking and HADCO team, along with the 13 other designers, for an incredble fun and educational trip!

If you have any questions, feel free to ask!   You may also contact HADCO in Suwanee, GA, for more information on where to buy – or to visit their showroom of Viking!  770-932-7282

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