More Kitchen Bling with Hardware

If you are looking for another way to top off your kitchen face lift, look no further than cabinet hardware.  Fun little accessories that can liven up any kitchen, or even bathroom.  Available in a large quantity of shapes and sizes, finishes and materials, hardware is the final finishing touch for your project. Many cabinet styles require the use of hardware, including full overlay door styles and European construction cabinets, for ease of use, so be sure not to overlook this fun source of additional personalization.  In the world of suburban track homes, this quick and easy afternoon project is a definite must to put a little more you in your kitchen. 

This rustic cup pull from Rocky Mountain Hardware is a great option for drawers.  It is shown in copper with an aged patina.  The list price for this pull is $45 and measures 3 11/16" oc.  There is a larger option, which is 5 5/8"oc and is $61.00  This cup pull is also a green option, being made of recycled materials.   

This beautiful pull, also from Rocky Mountain Hardware has beautiful lines and can be used in many different installations.  The Quatrafoil cabinet pull is available in several finishes, patina's, and the price starts at $49 and is available in two sizes.  This knob is made of recycled materials.  

This contemporary knob from SA Baxter shows that pulls and knobs don't have to be traditional.  There are millions of options that are available to create your more contemporary interior.  SA Baxter is a green manufacturer, as their knobs, pulls, and other hardware are made using recycled materials, there is no waste water produced, and even their machines are newer and produce less fumes and gasses.  

This ceramic on brass reproduction would be great in a bathroom, or even on a piece of furniture or an island.  This piece is available from Anthropologie, and starts at $8

Maybe you want to add some true character?  This frog pull has a lot of animal and insect pull cousins, including bat's, birds, butterflies, grasshoppers, and so much more.  Available from Martin Pierce and are priced at around $113 and available in a few different finishes and sizes.  

What are all those letters after your name?

The professionals in the industry of Interior Design have a lot of experience, and certifications.  So what do they mean to you, and what do they mean to your project?  Sure you can do a lot of research, but who has time for that?  So here is the information you need, in one place, and the resources to find those professionals.

AKBD - Associate Kitchen and Bath Designer 
This certification, by the National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA) is a professional that is knowledgeable in product selection, space planning, materials and finishes.  They have a minimum of two years experience, one of which must be in the kitchen and bath industry.
[click here to learn more]


CAPS - Certified Aging in Place Specialist
The CAPS designation teaches the technical, business management, and customer service skills that are essential to completing one of the fastest growing segments of the residential remodeling industry:  aging-in-place.  With extensive knowledge of gerontology, these designers can design a single space to accommodate children, adults, and the elderly.  These designers have an expanded understanding of the aging-in-place market.
[click here to learn more]


CGP - Certified Green Professional 
Builders, remodelers, and other industry professionals who incorporate green building principles into homes, without driving up the costs of construction.  They posses a solid background in green building methods. There is also the Master Certified Green Professional (Master CGP) which is a more in-depth study of green building science techniques.  For this certification, the professional must have five years of green building experience, as well as have built at least three dwellings in a three-year period.
[click here to learn more]


CID - Certified Interior Designer

This Certification ensures an experienced and competent design professional, qualified to design, prepare, and submit non-structural and non-seismic interior construction plans and specifications to your local building departments.  In order to obtain a CID, the designer has received education, experience, and passed an exam based on their knowledge of the building code.  This includes space planning, life safety, flammability, and disabled access code issues.  

[click here to learn more]

CKD/CBD - Certified Kitchen/Bath Designer
These designers specialize in design, planning, execution of residential kitchens and bathrooms and provide advanced knowledge.  These professionals have passed both a written examination as well as a practical examination.  A further certification is the Certified Master Kitchen and Bath Designer (CMKBD) which recognizes extraordinary experience and achievements in the industry.  These designers must have a minimum of ten years experience in the industry beyond the date of their first certification (CKD/CBD)
[click here to learn more]

CKBP - Certified Kitchen and Bath Professional
This Certification is for Non-Design Professionals, and is administered by the NKBA.  These professionals prove a high level of proficiency and professional knowledge and industry experience as well as education in the kitchen and bath industry.  The curriculum is focused on critical areas of knowledge in residential construction and general business knowledge in materials, products, and project management, and not centered on design.
[click here to learn more]

LEED - Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design
This Certification for building professionals is an internationally recognized system.  It was developed by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) and provides building owners and operators a framework to identify and implement green building design and construction as well as operation and maintenance solutions.  LEED can be applied to all building types, including both commercial and residential, and even entire neighborhoods.
[click here to learn more]

Note: Please feel free to comment alternative certifications that are local or not listed.  Also, feel free to comment on additional information on any of the certifications listed, as the more information the better.  I thank all of my readers and contributors in advance.  

Green Lights

So, with my readers loving my lighting posts, and with the ever growing trend in Environmental and Green Living, I decided to combine the two, a post on Green Lighting.  If you want to see actual green lights, this probably isn't the place to go, but if you want to see lighting fixtures created with the earth in mind, then continue browsing.

The Cyclone Chandelier by 2nd Ave. Lighting measures 96" high and 72" in diameter.  It starts out at $22,050.00 and features 36-60W Candelabra incandescent bulbs.  2nd Ave. Lighting provides fluorescent lights with electric ballasts and retrofit designs to reduce energy consumption.  Their water or powder based paints are used exclusively, and solder for brass braising process is lead free.

The Cascade Ellips Chandelier by Bodner Chandeliers measures 36" w x 14" d x 21" h.  The manufacturer is located in Ventura California, and is dedicated to creating custom one of a kind fine art chandeliers, sconces and pendants.  Materials used include 98% post consumer recycled metals and are fully renewable/recyclable.  

eluma Illuminated Backsplash by Element Designs features an aluminum frame with an LED illuminated acrylic insert  and Lumicor Serengeti Overlay.  This fixture features recycled content and no VOC's.  

The Spin Pendant lighting by Lampa start at $450.  These fun pendant lights are available in a variety of colors and are 12".  They come with a 21w LED light and are composed of renewable sources.  

The Baskets of Knowledge by wakaNINE, LLC are a fun lighting option that measures 32"W and 82"H.  These hanging lamps are lighted by a low wattage LED light source,  and are manufactured in a green environment using green products, shipping, and finishes.  

This Lotus Fixture by Fire Farm Lighting is a custom fabricated piece and was designed and fabricated with the carbon footprint in mind.  This dimmable fluorescent, high-output light is a great option and focal piece.  

Adding Color with Teal

A new color trend is the color Teal, or Aqua.  I fun and energetic color which lends itself well in a natural color pallet and is very easy to decorate with.  Here are some fun amazing products ranging from wall paper, fabrics, tile, and furniture.  This fun color is a new trend that is sure to please.  

This fun wall paper by Graham and Brown shows this color trend mixed with Chocolate Brown.
This product is FSC Certified Green.   

The Parlor Arm Chair from Drexel Heritage Furniture, is priced from $1,169.  This chair shows this color trend and how it can fit into your more formal interiors.  

Turquoise Puya Flowers by Organic Imagery.  I love this graphic!  The color is so vibrant, and would be great to add a splash of color to a black and white room.    

This fun Mosaic Glass Tile by Hakatai called Dragonfly Teal would be a great accent to a back splash, shower surround, or even accent wall.  

Thomasville Cabinetry's Marine finish paired with Cove on Maple is a great way to accent your kitchen with a splash of color.  You can use it as your full kitchen, or as an island or hutch as they did in this design.  

This Cowhide Leather by Townsend Leather Company starts at $18.50/sqft and was inspired by the sea.  It is called Fierce Fish Aqua Sea Great White, and has been embossed in a sea inspired print.  

Using Black in Your Designs

I love the color black, or should I say the lack of color? Black is such a sophisticated color, and I often hear clients say they love black, but don't know how to bring it into their designs.  Even in many of the designs I have seen from colleagues, many of them don't use black either.  So here are some fun accessories, and samples of designs using black.

This etched Apron Front double bowl sink would look good in a kitchen with  nearly any color cabinets.  Available from  Lenova Sinks, this granite sink will cost around $2000.  Lenova also offers vessel sinks for the bathroom.  

This kitchen from Kraftmaid features Black perimeter cabinets with a  vibrant red island.  Too much for you?  Choose a black island with peninsula cabinets in your wood finish of choice.  

Murano Chandelier by Murano Imports 

Social Butterfly Chair $1,729 by Caracole

This Photograph shows a black door, as well as black flooring.
From HGTV.com

Alternative Countertop Options

Looking for a countertop?  There is a lot more out there than Granite, Quartz, and Corian.  While, yes, those are amazing surfaces, there are some others out there to consider when selecting a surface for your kitchen.  All of the materials I will show in this article are recycled, sustainable, and will count toward a LEED certified project.  So if your looking for a fun, Environmentally Friendly surface, get started here!

Eco by Cosentino - Recycled Surfaces

Eco is a durable surface that is 75% recycled content.  That content is post-industrial or post-consumer materials including mirrors, windshields, windows, bottles, and porcelain, and is bound by a resin which comes from corn oil.  It is an ideal substitute for natural or engineered stone.  The products used in ECO have :reached the end of their life cycle," and are being saved from landfills.  The standard finish of this material is gloss, and this material is 2cm thick.  This surface is a fun new way to gain points toward your LEED certification.

Eco by Cosentino

Vetrazzo - Recycled Glass Surfaces

This surface is a little more commonly known.  This product is produced using strict green building and environmental standards.  It is about 85% recycled material, including glass.  There is no off-gassing or VOC's. The standard finish of this stone is gloss, and the material is 3cm thick.  Vetrazzo surfaces can also contribute to your LEED certification points.

Vetrazzo

Paperstone - Sustainable Composite Surfaces

Known as a sustainable countertop material, but is so much more, including public restroom partitions, tabletops, signs, etc.  It is made from 100% post-consumer recycled paper and a proprietary PetroFree (tm) resins.  Completely sustainable, and a solid surface material, and is LEED certified.

Paperstone

Shetkastone by All Paper Recycling

A natural granite-like appearance, Shetkastone uses recycled paper for many uses including tables, countertops, molding, tiles, and vanities.  The materials are 100% post-consumer and industrial paper recycled fibers.  The impact on the environment is minimal.  The binders are a plastic polyester.  There are a variety of finishes available, and there is zero VOC's and it contains no formaldehyde.  Shetkastone is also recyclable by returning it to the manufacturer, who will then turn it into another surface.  Shetkastone can also contribute to your LEED certification.  

Shetkastone 

Icestone Durable Surfaces made of Recycled Glass and Concrete

This Cradle to Cradle (TM) Gold certified product is manufactured of 100% recycled glass mixed in a cement matrix.  It collects hundreds of tons of glass from landfills every year.  The green renovated, day-lit manufacturing facility is located at the Brooklyn Navy Yard.  Classic and contemporary styles can be used in both the kitchen and the bath, as well as desks and table tops.  This material can also contribute to your LEED points and certification.  

IceStone 

The emotions of color

colourlovers.com

Sure,  you like that particular shade of whatever color,  and you want it in your kitchen.  Before you run down to the home improvement store for the experts to mix you up a gallon, and to get the perfect brush,  tapes,  and rollers, you might want to read about the emotions in color.  What colors are a dieters enemy, what colors can cause frustration, and so much more. 

We all know that black makes you look thinner.  You may need to keep that in mind if you paint your kitchen red.  The color red is the passion color, which would be great in bedrooms and boutiques.  It has been said to increase a person's energy, and blood pressure.  Closely related to Red is Pink, which is more of a romantic color.  Other feelings red can stimulate can include energy, danger, and power.  This is a strong color, and best used as an accent.  When painting the walls, consider using a brownish red.

Orange stimulates our creativity.  It is warm and inviting, and considered to be easier on our eyes than colors like yellow.  Orange also isn't as bright as red.  This color would be great in a child's room also.  This welcoming color, like red, has been known to stimulate passion.  Other colors in this group can include melon and salmon, which can also generate lively discussions.  If the orange has a pink tint to it, you will add an element of intimacy.  Like red, orange can increase the appetite.

The next color is yellow.  This stimulating and playful color is often seen in places like preschools, kitchens, and bathrooms.  It is a hard color for the human eye to focus, and has been known to cause fatigue.  It has also been known to cause it's viewers to become agitated and angrier quicker, so be sure to avoid putting this color in the nursery.

Green is a very calming color often used in places like hospitals and hotels.  Some variations of green create other emotions as well.  A blue-green can be considered restful and yellow-green add's refinement.  Greens can invite interaction, and the darker hues add a masculine characteristic.

Blue can depress desire, which is the opposite of red. Blue is often seen in children's rooms, and rarely in restaurants.  It is a soothing color, and can suppress the appetite.  Blue is also a color often associated with cleanliness and freshness, so consider using this color in the bathroom or the kitchen.    

Brown, the neutral and comforting color, typically is combined with other brighter colors. This color is best for the walls, and use some of the other colors as accents.

Purple symbolizes royalty.  Look at the Sacramento Kings!  The darker shades make bold statements, and the lighter shades are considered more feminine.  Mauve's can create feelings of sadness.

Black is an elegant color, which gives you a bit of a classy feel.  Often used as accents, or for contrast.  This color on the walls can make spaces feel very small, and like purple, depressing.  A good tip to know, if you want to lower that really high ceiling, dark colors like black can bring it down.  Also, if you have a really long and narrow room, paint the far wall a dark color like black to shorten it up a bit visually.  

Kitchen Bling - The Backsplash

Back splashes are a great way to show a little bit of flair in your space.  Throw in different textures, materials, both natural and man made, into a small focal point in the room.  Don't know where to start, or where to get inspiration?  Why not here!  There are a lot of materials that can be used on a backsplash, both natural and man made.  Some of those choices include glass, ceramic, porcelain, stones like slate, marble, and granite, metals including copper and stainless steel, and so many more.

Custom Glass Subway Tile Backsplash
Photo: Vintage Modern Blog

Mixed Materials, Slate and Metal Tiles
Photo: HGTV

Glass Mosaics
Photo: About.com

Tiled Mural
Photo: Bloomingtiles

All about Orange

The color orange, often associated with Halloween or The Home Depot, has a new twist in your home.  This fun, versatile color is warm and inviting, and looks great either on the walls, or as accessories.  Here are some products to get you started in this fun color.

Mood Board of Orange accessories created by Sarah G.
Shop This Board Here

Designed by Celia Berliner

Georgian Library Chair by Ann Getty House available at Shears & Window

Schumacher 2008 Fall Wovens
Chale de Cachemire

Orange Calla Lillies with Resin in Glass Vase
by LDF Silk 

Barbados Patio Two Piece Orbital Daybed and ottoman Set with 706 Orange Sunbrella Cushion, Canopy and Throw Pillows.  Available by Pelican Reef Wicker