Color Picks for Spring 2016

Here are my picks for Spring 2016.  Soft and muted hues are sure to brighten your space.  They can be used in any combination, and come from the Sherwin Williams "Vintage Chic" collection paint colors.  This collection includes: 

• Sea Salt, SW6204, a soft green 
• Alabaster, SW7008, an off white
• Ponder, SW7079, from the purple family
• Ancient Marble, another green

The rest of the collection is an great spring inspired pallet that coordinates well together in part or in full.

SW6204 Sea Salt

SW7008 Alabaster

SW7079 Ponder

SW6162 Ancient Marble

5 Must Have's for Your Next Kitchen

Technology and trends are changing constantly, and that is especially true for the kitchen.  Not only that, but semi custom and custom cabinet manufacturers are coming out with new space saving options for nearly everything.  From charging stations to toe kick drawers, there should be no excuse for wasted space. In today's kitchen, there is a place for everything!  Work with your designer to come up with solutions for even the most random of items you have.

LG Steam Dishwasher with 3rd Rack

1: Utensil Drawer in the Dishwasher!  Some dishwashers have a 3rd rack which is great for utensils like spatula's and some of those larger utensils.  I love them.  In my older dishwasher, I often have to take an entire row of glass storage for spatula's and large wooden spoons that won't fit below in the silverware rack.  This feature is on the top of my list for my new dishwasher. 

Tall Message Center by Diamond Cabinetry.

2: Charging Stations are great for any kitchen.  Since houses are moving more and more towards tech products, why not have a charging station in the kitchen.  A place for cell phones, iPods, tablets, camera's, etc.  They all need to plug in, why not in the hub of the home, the kitchen. This great cabinet by Diamond also features a message center with a whiteboard inside the cabinet door.  Great for messages, calendars, and more. 

Toe Kick Drawer

3: Toe Kick Drawers are an amazing out of the way storage solution.  Great for linens that aren't sued very often, serving platters, cutting boards and cookie sheets, all that big and bulky stuff you don't use often.  The drawers can also be equipped with food and water dishes for your furry family members.  With today's semi and custom cabinets, there should be no reason for wasted toe kick space. 

 

Belken Kitchen Cabinet Tablet Mount

4: The Belkin Kitchen Cabinet Tablet Mount is a must have.  Tablet's are taking over homes, and are a great resource while cooking and in the kitchen.  You can place your tablet on the mount and keep it clear of food and messes while using video's and recipes.  For $34.19, this is a must have.  You can even use App's to build shopping lists and so much more.

Waste/Recycling Center by American Woodmark
Kitchen designed by Sarah George at
Home Depot of Folsom, California

5: Trash compactors are out, especially with the growing trend of recycling, and great recycling programs provided by cities.  This great waste cabinet is hidden away, and takes the same amount of space as a compactor, however gives you the flexibility to have both space for trash and recycling.  I try to put this cabinet in every kitchen I design, and every client has been blown away by its convenience.  Ditch the compactor!

Great Outdoor Spaces and Must Have Products

With summer in full swing, let's celebrate with great outdoor spaces, and some of the products that are must-haves for entertaining outside.  while of course a bar-b-q is a necessity for any backyard oasis, there are other products that you should know about before planning that big party. From materials to entertainment, cooking to dining, these spaces are exceptional and these products make it happen.

Correct poor growth areas, no more weeds, mud, and no mowing.
A play space, a show place, a quality artificial lawn.
HeavenlyGreens.com

Maintenance is key, some people love getting their hands dirty and love spending time working in their yard. Then there are the people like me, those who want a pristine yard but don't want to spend a minute working to get it that way. One thing that is important to me in my dream back yard, is maintenance free grass.  When I think of my lawn, I want no watering (not only green in color, but environmentally green as well), no mowing, and best of all, no weeds!  Now, while researching for this particular article, I was sceptical to recommend artificial turf because of my dog, and where she goes potty.  Well, I did find Heavenly Greens Artificial Turf, which has built in drainage and a sand infill which provides a playable and functional space for dogs.

Additional Maintenance relieving products include drip systems, and sprinkler systems that relieve watering tasks.  While yes, plants flowers and trees will need to be maintained, including trimming, cutting, and pruning, but at least it isn't a multiple times a week job.

TrueBright TV Outdoor Television 

Entertainment is always a must have. So what does the entertaining include?  Ever families idea of outdoor entertainment is different.  So what does your family want?  A giant TV to enjoy the game while Bar-B-Qing some burgers?  A pool table, or perhaps table tennis and air hockey?  How about a pool in general?  All of this can be done outdoors.  With a growing trend in outdoor entertaining, technology is leading the way.  For example, the television pictured here is 100% waterproof and designed to be outdoors, in the elements of the sun, rain, and so much more.  Now you can watch the game while soaking up the rays in the pool, or cook up some killer steaks during the Super Bowl, without missing a play (or commercial!)  There are also quick and easy ways of making your own big screen to be used with a projector.  Simply a white wall, or a large white sheet can be used for a movie night among the stars.

Other entertaining products for outdoors include a variety of gaming tables, including billiards tables, Foosball tables, table tennis, and air hockey.  You can also get items like dart boards and more.  Each family has their own idea of what is fun and entertaining.  Chances are, what ever you want is made for the outdoors.  Be sure to invest in products that will stand the test of time.

This infinity edge pool and spacious pool side living area's are
what so many of us dream about in our outdoor space.
Design by Austin Architect Cornerstone Architects

This outdoor kitchen is a culinary masterpiece featuring
many outdoor entertaining appliances fit for any party or chef.
Design by Sacramento Architect, Debbie R. Gualco

Appliances are key for any outdoor chef.  A Bar-B-Que isn't the only appliance that can fill your outdoor kitchen.  Refrigerators, pizza ovens, beverage centers, ice makers, warming drawers, and ventilation are only a few of the outdoor appliances that can fill your outdoor kitchen.  While there are many appliance manufacturers, be sure you get appliances specified for outdoor use, even if the appliance will be under an overhang and protected by the elements.  High heat and low freezing temperatures can damage any appliance not intended for outdoor use. Some manufacturers of outdoor appliances include KitchenAid, Viking, DCS Appliances, and many more.


Ambient enhancements also create an enjoyable outdoor living space.  Things like misters, ceiling fans, heaters, and creative lighting. It is suggested to work with a landscape architect or designer to create the best outdoor space for not only your family, but also your climate and even the soil you have in your yard.  Landscape Architects and Designers are great resources when planning outdoor living spaces.

Design by Atlanta Architect Kemp Hall Studio

This contemporary exterior space designed by
Denver Lighting Designer, 186 Lighting Design Group

This Modern Patio features creative lighting and a great entertaining space.
Design by Dallas Landscape Architect, Harold Leidner Landscape Architects

This pool and outdoor living space is great for pool parties and more.
Design by Orange County Landscape Designer, AMS Landscape Design Studios, Inc. 

  

Green Products for Baby (and the rest of the house!)

Every new mom has a lot on her plate.  It is very overwhelming, and there are a lot of products out there to make an absolutely lovely nursery, but how do you know what is safe for your baby?  Aside from the ever useful tip of paint early, and get that bedding out of the packaging for off-gassing as early as possible.  I also have some other great and environmentally friendly products to help you out.  Now of course, the ever "Green" option is to obviously reuse products that not only have had the chance to off gas, and your not wasting resources to generate new products.  I am posting this for those of you who don't want to take hand me downs from complete strangers, like myself, who doesn't have friends or family with small children to get those hand me downs from.  

The Sherwin Williams ProMar 200 Zero VOC Interior Paint is a great way to paint up that nursery and not have to worry about the paint harming your little ones lungs. Especially if you are facing moving right before or after the birth of your families new addition.  What else is great, this paint can be whipped up into any Sherwin Williams color or sheen, or matched to the color in that bedding set you just picked up.  Another added bonus, this paint has excellent touch-up abilities, which will be great in a kids room.

The Absolutely Organic Crib Mattress is a healthy mattress that is waterproof (for those nigh time accidents) non-toxic, and stain resistant.  At about $260, this mattress is a great hypoallergenic solution for the crib.  (That's right, no Latex and no Wool!)  This mattress also includes a built in fire protection system.  Absolutely Organic Baby also makes changing pads and covers, and bedding sets.   

The Naturally Organic Crib Bedding available at The Clean Bedroom offers multiple bedding options that are free from chemical treatments.  This bedding is made from organic cotton and come in nursery inspired colors.  The Clean Bedroom also offers organic plush toys for baby, as well as ventilation systems where needed or desired.

When looking for carpet for my new home, as well as the future addition to my family, I kept getting recommendations for Martha Stewart Living's line of carpets available from The Home Depot.  While this carpeting isn't completely zero VOC, it is an environmentally and Eco safe option that is not only recyclable, it is durable, resilient, and comes with a lifetime stain protection, which we all can agree is great for any child's room. 

Wood Countertops

Wood is a great alternative to some of the current counter options out there.  Including reclaimed wood, there is a lot of wood species, finishes, edges, and options.  This counter solution can be eco friendly with the use of quickly repopulating woods like Bamboo, or with reclaimed and recycled woods.  

Heirloom Wood Countertops features custom shapes and sizes, as well as multiple different species and finishes.  They have multiple thicknesses available as well, and several different edge styles.  These wood tops are treated, and so they are heat, water, and stain resistant.  

Block Tops Incorporated is also a great source for wood countertops, which can be used  all over your kitchen, as well as islands, on furniture, and so much more.  Wood countertops can enhance the look of your space, add warmth, and are a great warm surface for the consumer that feels granite and stone is too cold.  Block Tops also offers woods like Bamboo and Reclaimed wood, which are great for the environmentally friendly consumer.  

This reclaimed countertop from Craft-Art features a custom cutting board that fits perfectly into the under-mounted stainless steel sink.  

Design Tips: Be sure to have some contrast between the cabinetry color, and the wooden top color.  This allows a visual separation between counter and cabinets, and will help users see the edge of the countertop.  It also helps avoid trying to "match" two different types of wood from two different providers, which is nearly impossible!

Window Treatments

When designing a room, you don't want to forget the windows.  Window treatments are a final touch, that is often overlooked.  With so many products on the market for your windows, they should never be forgotten.  There are many products out there today that are designed to make life with window treatments easier.  Make them more user friendly, for all users in the home.  Here are some solutions for window treatments. 

Automation, or remote controlled treatments are great for larger windows, where the window treatments are too heave to open and close.  Automated window treatments can be hard wired, or even operated by a remote control, and are great for users with limited strength as well.  Most window treatment companies have automation options.  While a more expensive option, it is always a great thing to price out for those larger windows.  Here is a link to Hunter Douglas and their Motorized Options.  Another producer of window automation is Somfy, which has more than just remote controlled options.  

Natural Materials can also be used in Window Treatments.  Grass, bamboo, and other natural elements can work well with many interior design styles and rooms.  These products can also be motorized, and are typically an environmentally friendly option.  The shades below are made from Grass by Perry Design. 

Shutters are another great alternative to blinds and traditional window treatments.  Several companies offer shutter solutions for all types of windows, including french doors and sliding patio doors.  The below shutter was designed by the Baltimore Shutter Company.  

Roman Shades are a beautiful and completely customizable solution to upholstered window treatments.  They can be equipped with black out liners for ultimate light control.  There are many different shapes and styles of Roman Shades, and they look great in formal and casual settings.  The shades below are part of the Perry Design line up.  

Draperies are another great customization options with several casual and formal designs.  Typically custom made, these solutions can be made however the end user wants them, including style, fabrics, liners, shapes, etc.  Draperies can be made with automation and black out liners if requested.  The draperies below are available from Factory Direct Drapes. 

The Wallpaper Come Back

Wall paper is making a come back, and the products are like nothing you have ever seen before.  Fun metallics, textures, prints, and installation styles.  These products aren't from that 1980's bathroom, or farm house style borders, they are unique and can turn any room into a statement.

This installation by Vahallan Papers shows their circle installation, using circles of wallpaper overlapping.  These hand made papers are a unique.  Vahallan offers several different texture styles as well as shapes including rectangles, circles, squares, and traditional rolls.  Some installation includes tearing the traditional rolls, which is pictured below.  

The Teatro Wallpaper Collection from  Osborne & Little features bold colors and patterns that would accent any room with flair.  The Manzoni pattern Collection pictured above is adorned with metallic tones.  

The Ophelia Twilight pattern from Graham and Brown (Priced from $155/Roll) features high contrast.  Graham and Brown produces Environmentally Friendly wall coverings.  Learn more here.     

The Spa Pastel pattern, also from Graham and Brown (From $50/Yd) also shows the metallic finishes.  Graham and Brown produces Environmentally Friendly wall coverings.  Learn more here.   

The Pomegranate finish in the Arbors Collection by Wallteriors Handcrafted Wallcoverings is a hand made paper that can be installed uniquely by either cutting the pieces into smaller squares, traditional strip styles, or ripped.  (Priced from $46/yd) 

The Colorful Countertop

Looking to add a little color to your kitchen or bath?  Why stick to the same old browns and beige's?  There is color brewing from many of the top countertop surface providers, and now is the time to make a statement.  Many of the surfaces featured are also great for any LEED projects, so not only are they beautiful, they are also environmentally friendly and sustainable materials.    

The Corian Illumination Series features several colors and patterns in soft pastel colors that look great with back lighting.  These tops would be a great addition to any vanity or island as an accent.  They have also been featured in several commercial applications including bars, restaurants, and hospitals.    Like any other Corian color, this collection features a seamless appearance.  Like many other surfaces, Dupont Corian has several products that are environmentally friendly.    

The Silestone Life Series by Cosentino features colors like Fun (Pictured Above) as well as Enjoy (Blue), Vital (Red), Cool (Orange) and Dream (Yellow).  These colors do bring the "Life" to your space with vibrant colors and little maintenance.   Silestone is also an environmentally friendly counter surface.  

ThinkGlass by Mailhot creates custom Glass countertops with a mixture of custom colors to create a focal point in the kitchen, and a statement.  Each countertop is custom, and allows the designer or home owner to design a custom look for each installation.  This product is also 100% recycled materials and goes toward LEED points.  

Onyx counter surfaces come in an array of colors and patterns typically of earth tones, however some do feature greens purples and blues.  These tops can also be lit from below to create an accent piece, focal point, as well as accent lighting.    

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.