LivingKitchen at IMM Cologne: Top Trends

Last week in Germany, two firsts occurred: One, I attended a European trade show. Two, the popular IMM Cologne interior design expo created LivingKitchen, a show within their already popular show dedicated exclusively to my favorite room in the house!

LivingKitchen featured some of the top European brands, including Blanco, the sink and faucet company sponsoring our group, among others. I'm a member of the Blanco Design Council, which means I'm periodically asked for my input on products, advertisements and other company initiatives.

What it's important for my readers to know is that my BDC involvement doesn't mean that I'm paid to write or speak about their products; long before I became a member, I was praising their Silgranit sinks. In fact, don't be surprised if you see a Blanco product or two in my next IMM top products post, or if you see a Cafe Brown Silgranit II sink in my kitchen in the not-too-distant future either. Enough on that subject. Let's get to the good stuff -- the trends I spotted at IMM's LivingKitchen show last week.


Cool white was red hot at IMM. White appliances showed up everywhere, along with white cabinets and countertops. While I don't see white being a hot seller in the US, at least not in the near future, it did have a nice look at the show.


Sleeker ovens showed up strongly at IMM. When I toured KBIS with my architect contributor/ friend/go-to guy for luxury trends Dean Larkin, AIA in 2008, he was lamenting the chunky ovens that protruded awkwardly from their cabinets. Well, that problem appears to have been solved. So many of the ovens on display at this show were fully integrated into their boxes. If they came paneled, like dishwashers or refrigerators, you would never know they were there. This leads smoothly to my next trend...

Minimalist white appliances from Miele

"Un-kitchens" were handsomely on display last week. Don't want to see your appliances? Pull a door across them. Want an open floor plan that doesn't scream kitchen? This hide-away design strategy is for you!

One of the many handsome "Un-Kitchens" on display at LivingKitchen expo
Photo: Koelnmesse

Laminate continues to come on strong. It clads more European cabinets and countertops than any other material I spotted at the show. Their laminate, however, is much higher end than what we're used to seeing in American tract homes. (You know, the stuff we rip out in almost every remodel!) The dominant look is textured, but glossy laminates that look like glass caught my eye, too.

One of my favorites, white and textured laminate from Allmilmo

Black cladding on polished chrome was a sharp, formal yet modern look for faucets. I like this trend myself, but see it more in a powder room or master bath than a kitchen. They evoke a black-tie soiree at home!

What's black and chrome and stylish all over? A Blanco faucet!

Skinny tops ruled the show! Whereas in the US, we're used to the "bigger is better" approach in countertops, the Europeans have gone the opposite direction. Countertops were thin, (about three-eighths of an-inch), sleek and sometimes raised above the cabinets with LEDs or open space between the two.

One of the many ultra-thin countertops on display at LivingKitchen expo
Photo: Koelnmesse

Sinks rose to new heights. Since laminate tops are so popular in Europe, you don't see as many of the undermounts we associate with high-end design here. Some manufacturers, like Duravit, are showing just raised edges. Others are raising the whole countertop section around the sink, or creating "wading pool" sinks for the kitchen. While I like their style, I'm not sold yet on the sensibility of these.

I do, however, like the hideaway concept, where a clever cutting board slides across to hide the sink and add extra workspace. There were many hideaway options shown at Living Kitchen, and I can see them coming to the US market quickly, too.

Built-in drainboards are popular there, too. They work especially well with drop-in sinks, but can be extended from undermounts, too.

Blanco lets the sink drainboard Flow 0nto the countertop

Check out my second post on the show: LivingKitchen at IMM Cologne - Top Products. You'll spot what I consider to be The Next Great Countertop and other game changers. Promise!

***

Also check out the brilliant blogs by my LivingKitchen traveling companions: Cheryl Nagle Kees Clendenon, Paul Anater, Susan Serra and Leslie Claggett - some of the most respected design bloggers in the industry and folks I'm happy to call friends. Search "IMM" or "Living Kitchen" or "LivingKitchen" from the above links and enjoy their individual takes on the trip of a lifetime!

Go-to Gold: Appliance Pro Guest Post

In honor of Gold Notes' second anniversary this month, I've invited colleagues to share their own favorite Go-to design product sources for GN's new Go-to Gold series. For appliances, my own go-to gal was Julie Warner of Warners' Stellian. This 60-year-old, family-owned business has seven showrooms in Minnesota and nationwide shipping.

Julie is incredibly savvy and generous with her expertise. You can read her regularly at the informative Warners’Stellian Kitchen and Home Appliance Blog. Here is Julie’s Go-to Gold list for top-notch appliances.


Warner on appliances

When Jamie asked me to choose my go-to brands for appliances, my first instinct was that I don't have go-to brands. I try to listen to the customer and then choose the product based on their needs. And I'm sure that many designers feel this way, as well. But of course, certain brands within an appliance category get specified into projects more often than others and end up arguably being my go-to products. Disclaimer: All the products I'm writing about, we sell both in our stores and online at our website.


Sub-Zero

Sub-Zero invented the built-in refrigerator. Its products prove the most reliable long-term because of their quality and design. Sub-Zero also offers the most models available to fit any installation needs, from columns, to all-freezer/all-refrigerators that can be placed anywhere, to refrigeration and freezer drawers. When I bring people in to look at a Sub-Zero, they're going to find what they're looking for.

The SUB-736TCI is probably our most popular model

Dacor

Dacor ranges have become a favorite of mine because they're not overdone; you don't see them in everyone's high-end kitchen. Plus, I think they're more elegant looking in many cases. They're a family-owned company -- which we love! -- that makes its products here in America at a lower price point than other comparable brands.

Dacor lets design drive its styling, too. For instance, Epicure offers an entire line of traditional-style products, whereas Millenia lends a modern look throughout its products. Finishes include stainless, glass and colors. Aside from ranges, Dacor cooktops and wall ovens also offer phenomenal cooking performance.

Dacor's 36" Epicure dual-fuel range offers phenomenal cooking performance

Miele

If I sell someone Miele laundry, it will stay sold. Basically, this stuff's built to last. The capacity is good and Miele has all the features clients ask for. People spend a lot of money on their clothes, so I argue they should buy a product that's going to take care of them. I also choose Miele for dishwashers, because they are built to last the longest. Miele dishwashers never let me down, client-wise. Clients love them, and then can't help but tell their friends about them, so we get a good deal of referrals specifically for these. Most of our showroom staff aspires to have a Miele dishwasher, which says a lot. Families will appreciate how intuitive the loading is, but I think it also makes sense for single people because of its versatility, quietness and energy efficiency.
A dishwasher gets used and abused, so it makes sense to purchase a well-built model. I'm comfortable selling it to anyone and everyone. And it's absolutely worth the extra money because it will last the longest.

Built to last: Miele's G2472SCVI

Vent-A-Hood

Vent-A-Hood invented the range hood. Its product line proves the quietest, safest and most versatile in its styling. Locally, we also like Vent-A-Hood because its blower systems match Minnesota's ratings for CFM restrictions. I could go on: Vent-A-Hood products are powerful, easy-to-clean and efficient.

The BH140SLD is very popular for mantel-style hoods

Sensible Style - Fall in love with your kitchen again!

Have you fallen out of love with your kitchen over the years? Does it now seem cramped and dull? This edition of Sensible Style, right in time for Valentine's Day, can rekindle your passion for this hardest working space in your home. Doesn't yours deserve some new love?

What are your favorite Valentine's gifts? Candy? Flowers? Jewelry? A romantic dinner? An island getaway? Here are some swoon-worthy treats along those lines that your kitchen would surely welcome.


Cabinet jewelry

Dress up your cabinets with rich, elegant hardware for a completely new look. Just as the right bracelet and necklace can take a work suit from day into evening, the right knobs and pulls for your kitchen can take them from so-so to sensational. If your budget won't handle replacing all of your hardware, choose a single focal point piece - like an island or hutch - and just decorate it. To really set off its new jewelry, paint this piece a different color than the rest of your cabinets.

This sparkling hardware from Topex by Swarovski will add brilliance to even the most timeworn cabinets.

Eye candy

Several of my clients over the years have hesitated to change their tired, old kitchen tiles because they extended all the way through the first floor of their home, and they weren't ready for that level of change. For those folks, and for any of you who want to add some visual impact to your kitchen without a full scale flooring change, consider adding a tile rug to your kitchen. This can give your space an updated look without remodeling the entire space. There are two key considerations in making this work well: (1) You're going to need a skilled, experienced tile setter to handle the job. (2) You're going to have to coordinate the tile rug pattern, colors and scale to work with your existing space. I suggest bringing in a professional designer to help you pull this off.

Create a fresh, new kitchen floor with a coordinating tile rug like this one from Crossville.

Flower power

Fresh flowers bring softness and life to an overworked kitchen. They can add a touch of elegance or whimsy. They can also add a desired accent color. Best of all, they can make you smile whenever you walk into the room. If fresh flowers are too extravagant on a regular basis, find quality silks to create the look on a lasting basis. Something to keep in mind, as you imagine a vase of peonies or tulips on your island: Kitchens are very busy places. Choose a container for your florals that isn't easily broken if slammed by a wayward elbow or skillet.

I love the muted richness of pewter, shown here in a vase from Match, in a kitchen. It will compliment and soften your stainless appliances.

Romance enhancer

Remember those honeymoon moments on the Left Bank, or in the Piazza San Marco... You and your beloved savored endless cappuccinos at a sidewalk café, drinking in the romance of the encounter. You can enjoy those moments again in your very own kitchen with the creation of a coffee station. This could include a built-in coffee maker, an accessory drawer to hold your espresso service and adjacent cabinetry for your coffee, filters and the like. Built-ins usually entail professional planning and installation, but for those of you who live for the bean, this can quickly become your favorite new kitchen zone.

A coffee zone with a built-in coffee maker, like this one from Miele, can be a real value-adder to your kitchen.

Island staycation

An island for your kitchen won't carry you away to far-off fantasy lands, but it can carry essential daily or entertaining items that your current, already-crammed cabinets won't hold. It can also provide landing space for additional prep tasks, or even umbrella drinks! Choose one whose door style and finish will coordinate attractively with your current cabinets. It will become a new focal point for your kitchen, and can instantly update it without a major remodel. Be sure that there's at least 42 inches between this new island and your existing cabinets and appliances for it to be a welcome addition, not a space-hogging intrusion, to your kitchen.

An island can add valuable real estate to your kitchen. Some, like this Bedford model from Ballard Designs, can go with you if you move.

And here are some additional ways to fall in love with your kitchen on any of the 364 other days of the year!


A la cart

Some kitchens just don't have the room for a permanently-placed island. For those, a moveable cart could be a good option. The trick is finding the one that serves the purpose. Do you need more prep space? Choose one with an easy-maintenance countertop. Need more place to store unsightly stuff? Find a cart with closed door storage. Storing prettier stuff? There are numerous carts with open storage. Identify your needs and start searching online. Your heart's desired cart is probably out there.

This cart from KitchenCartStation.com is an entertainer's best friend with its wine rack and serving tray.

Curve appeal

Curves can add flair to a space, but can be an expensive component in a kitchen remodel. A curved-front cabinet, for instance, will cost far more than its traditional flat-front equivalent. Adding curves with your countertops instead will give you the sex appeal of the shape without adding much to the bottom line. One way to achieve this if you're not planning on replacing all of your tops is to add a small curve -- or radius, as they're called in the industry -- in a single focal point area. This can be on a hutch or island, for example. This one small detail can add immeasurably to the style of the space. Give it a try!

This hickory top with a subtle radius by Craft-Art gives added richness to a built-in.

Open door policy

My last house came with a cheap, builder-grade bifold pantry door that I absolutely detested. It clashed with my cherry cabinets and offered no storage or aesthetic benefits. If the builder had given me a wider door opening, I could -- and would have -- easily swapped it out for a more stylish alternative. Imagine what upgrading this prominent feature can do for your kitchen?

A pantry door can be a pretty portal, and coordinate stylishly with the rest of your kitchen elements. This one by Jeld-Wen features room-brightening glass.

Light up your life

My last house also came with recessed lights over the island. Yes, they added illumination to our heavily-used prep area, but they added no style whatsoever. Chances are, your builder put one or two of these over your island or bar, too. Consider swapping them out for a great-looking fixture instead. It's an easy change by a professional electrician that will add instant appeal to your kitchen.

These handsome pendants from Hubbardton Forge add coordinated style, as well as illumination, to this great-looking kitchen.

Water lust

Never underestimate the aesthetic power of a great faucet to upgrade your kitchen. Some of the newer models also combine enhanced functionality with their enviable style. Consider a hands-free model that lets you turn on the water even when your hands are full, or greasy, or even germy. A matching soap dispenser is a nice touch, too. There are no style points for plastic soap bottles on your counter -- not a one!

The Talo Faucet by Brizo adds Sensible Style to any kitchen. (Brizo is hosting me and my design blogging colleagues in New York City this week to learn more about their products.)

Visit the Sensible Style box on the right column for links to all the posts in this ongoing series.

ISLAND FEVER II - EQUIPPING THE DREAM

Aruba. Bermuda. Barbados. Microwaves and wine chillers. Wait, what??? Yes, it's island season, that time of year when your thoughts turn to holiday entertaining and holiday escapes.

Maybe you're looking for an escape from an over-crowded kitchen, too. Will adding an island provide an idyll for this hardest-working room in your house? Let's consider the possibility.

Last week, you read ISLAND FEVER I: SIZING UP YOUR OPTIONS, and determined that you can make an island work and that you're going to make the investment. You also determined how you want that space to function. After proper sizing, function planning is the most important aspect to making an island pay off for you.


AGAIN, ASK YOURSELF WHY

In Island Fever I, I mentioned the following reasons for adding an island to your kitchen:

* Increase your kitchen storage
* Add an additional work zone
* Add a specialty function - e.g., baking center
* Facilitate a Kosher lifestyle
* Add an entertaining center

Read no further before you decide what role your island will play in your kitchen improvement. Any one of them is fine - you can even come up with something else on your own - you just need to define its job before you proceed.




INCREASE YOUR KITCHEN STORAGE

If increasing your storage capacity is your primary goal, determine what will "live" in that space and how best to access it. For example:

* Your existing drawers are overflowing: A trio of four-drawer banks, each with built-in organizers, tame the clutter.

* You just got married and need room for your beloved's cast iron skillet collection, your Calphalon set and your wedding registry's All-Clad: You opt for base cabinets with roll-out trays in each, and a ceiling-mounted pot rack for the ones you use most often.

* You got a juicer to get healthy and need space to store it, along with all the fruits and vegetables you're going to blend: One base cabinet with a built-in knife holder drawer and roll-out trays for the juicer's accessories, one with a lift for the heavy juicer itself and a dual drawer under-counter refrigerator for the fruits and vegetables you'll be juicing.


ADD AN ADDITIONAL WORK ZONE

What tasks does that work zone need to perform. Will it cook? Clean up? Prepare meals? Re-heat? A well-equipped work zone will encompass strategic appliances, appropriate counter top material and well-appointed storage, (as shown in the juice-making example, above). Here are two examples:

* Your island clean up station has a deep sink, garbage disposal and pull-out faucet, a dishwasher and pull out dual trash bins for garbage and recycling. The cabinet holding the sink has a rack for your cleaning supplies. A narrow, open cabinet next to that features a pull-out rack for your dish towels. If space allows, you also have a divided, deep drawer bank for your Tupperware collection, so that left-overs can be conveniently gathered and sealed.



* Your island cooking station is equipped with an induction cooktop, countertop-mounted pot filler, convection-steam oven, (my December '08 Gold Nugget Award winner), ceiling-mounted ventilation hood and warming drawer - everything you need to get dinner on the table, at whatever time everyone eats. It also includes a base cabinet with top drawer organizer and roll-out trays to keep your cooking essentials at hand.


Both of these work stations feature quartz countertops for durability and easy maintenance. Despite their well-respected heat resistance, you keep a trivet nearby for hot pots and pans if all of your induction burners are occupied.


ADD A SPECIALTY FUNCTION

These are always fun to plan, because they cater to the homeowner's passions and bring together the client's inspirations and designer's knowledge in a true partnership. Here are two examples:

* The island baking center has a convection-steam oven, base mixer stand cabinet, tray base for cookie sheets and three-drawer base with top drawer organizers to separate measuring spoons from whisks and whisks from spatulas and dividers below to hold your measuring cups, mixing bowls and other baking favorites. You also opted for a non-porous, engineered stone countertop for rolling your dough and easy clean-up afterward.

* The entertaining center features U-Line's ice maker/fridge/freezer, which I featured in my Multi-Taskers posting last summer, and a dual-zone wine captain. It also includes a bar sink and a three-drawer bank for accessories like wine charms, corkscrews and bottle openers (above) and deep divided drawers for non-refrigerated bottles below. If desired, shallow storage on the back allows for a raised standing bar and spot for serveware. If seating is preferred, factor in serveware storage in a more accessible spot. A decorative glass top, like those from ThinkGlass, offers a splashy focal point for an entertainment center island. It also offers easy clean-up. Handsome focal point alternatives could be wood or concrete. Unlike glass slab, both require some maintenance to preserve their integrity and beauty.




STYLE NOTES

An island gives you a great opportunity to upgrade your kitchen and even add some much-needed style to a dated space. However, since the island and the rest of your appliances and cabinetry share the same visual space, you're best served by coordinating looks, not clashing.



Here are a few tips for the most common builder kitchens I've encountered:

* Let's say your kitchen has golden oak cabinets, dark green laminate countertops, dark tan floor tiles and black appliances. Your island can feature dark green or black painted cabinets and paneled appliances in a similar door style. The dark green cabinets would look great with black tops, and vice versa. Select hardware for your island and add it to the cabinets on the periphery. If the island features a prep sink, choose a bar faucet and a companion main faucet to replace your existing one.

* Let's say your kitchen has white laminate cabinets, white appliances and a light, flecked laminate countertop. Your floors are a beige tile. Choose one of the accent colors in the laminate flecked top, (e.g., light blue or light green) and opt for painted cabinets in that color. Choose a light, solid-color top and paneled appliances.

* Let's say your kitchen has faux walnut cabinets, almond appliances, beige tile tops and floors. If your budget doesn't allow for tearing it all out, replace all your appliances with stainless ones to add some brightness; choose painted black island cabinets to tie into the darker tones in the walnut-grained ones surrounding it, (and coordinate with future replacements), and opt for a solid-toned cream-colored slab countertop. Update all the hardware and faucets with stainless, as well, for more shine. A nifty - extremely durable - sink to consider is one of Blanco's Silgranit models in its handsome Café Brown. It'll tie in with your existing brown cabinets and remind you of how far you've come when you finally replace them!


FINAL THOUGHTS

Adding an installed island to your kitchen is likely to invoke local code issues. Be sure to engage a local professional to ensure that your island is properly wired, plumbed, equipped, sized and planned. This will provide you and future homeowners with a safe, enjoyable addition to your home.


PHOTO NOTES

AGAIN, ASK YOURSELF WHY: This island really cooks. It features a hood, oven, cooktop and Brookhaven semi-custom cabinetry from Wood-Mode, featured on the company's web site.

ISLAND CLEAN-UP STATION: This large island that I co-designed for a local family features a dishwasher, trash center, sink and convenient storage for baggies, tin foil, Tupperware, etc.

ISLAND COOKING STATION: This island features a Miele DA424 hood that elevates when not in use, preserving views and conversation sight lines for the cook.

THE ENTERTAINING CENTER: This island features a bar sink, a full suite of entertaining-friendly appliances and a strikingly-beautiful ThinkGlass countertop, shown on the company's web site.

STYLE NOTES: Your island doesn't have to match the rest of your kitchen, but it should coordinate. Here's a beautiful example featuring Dynasty by Omega semi-custom cabinets from the manufacturer's web site.

GET STEAMED... OR HOW I WENT TO GREENWOOD, MISSISSIPPI AND FELL IN LOVE WITH AN OVEN

“Steaming is great because of its speed and minimal impact on [the] flavor and texture of food. The method is particularly appropriate with ingredients that bring a delicate flavor. Fresh vegetables are perfectly suited to steam cooking, as they have subtle, delicious flavors that are lost to more aggressive heat. Poultry, pork, and many kinds of seafood are also beautiful matches with this form of cooking.” FamilyEducation.com

“Steam ovens, (often called ‘combi ovens,’ because they cook with a combination of steam and dry heat), are a chef’s secret weapon.” Food and Wine Magazine


Last week, at Viking Range Company’s designer open house program, I had some of the best stir-fried rice and cheesecake I’ve ever enjoyed – prepared in its Steam/Convect Oven™, (shown above right). Now I seriously want one! This baby:

* Steams
* Roasts
* Bakes
* Browns
* Reheats

It even multi-tasks! The Steam/Convect Oven can cook two dishes on two separate settings at the same time to get dinner on the table faster. How perfect is that for busy homeowners?

Here’s a 10-second video Viking has prepared to show the S/O in operation.


OTHER RESOURCES

Many major manufacturers make combination steam ovens. Here are a few links for your convenience:

Gaggenau
Kitchen Aid
Kuppersbusch
Miele

The Gaggenau offers the unique feature of a side-opening door, which is ideal for wheelchair users. I have not had the opportunity to evaluate or use any of these competing combination-steam ovens on the market, so I can’t comment on them with any authority.

If you decide that this is an appliance that would enhance your kitchen – as I have – then compare and contrast. When I start shopping for my own Casa de Goldberg combi-steam oven, these are the Viking benchmarks I’ll be using:

* Doesn’t need to be plumbed for less expensive installation and easier maintenance.
* Multi-tasks for cook’s convenience and faster cooking time.
* Alerts owner to run self-clean (de-scale) function so I don’t have to worry about it.

Here are a few related considerations for adding a combi-steam oven to your kitchen:

* Will it replace an existing second oven?
* If so, does it need or come with a trim kit?
* Do you need a new cabinet to accommodate an added appliance?
* Do you have a licensed electrician to run the wiring and install it?
* What is the most convenient location in your kitchen for this new appliance, based on your cooking plans for it?
* Where can it be safely installed?
* Do you have trusted local appliance and remodeling experts to guide you?


BLOG BONUS

Here, compliments of Viking Product Training Manager and hostess extraordinaire Dorothy Gates, is the recipe for the best cheesecake on the planet:

CHEESECAKE

Crust:

3 tablespoons sugar
3 tablespoons butter
2 cups graham cracker crumbs

Using a [Viking] Food Processor, combine ingredients until blended.

Press into a spring form pan, pressing halfway up the sides of the pan.

Filling:

16 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
1 cup sugar
3 eggs
2 tablespoons vanilla extract
3 cups sour cream

Using a [Viking] Stand Mixer, cream cheese and sugar until smooth on medium speed.

Add eggs, one at a time, beating after each addition until smooth, scraping down bowl from time to time.

Mix in vanilla and sour cream until combined.

Pour into spring form pan.

Place rack at level 1 and level 3.

Preheat oven using Truconvec™ cooking, 300°F.

Bake until center is set but not firm, at 300°F, 1 hour 10 minutes.

Let set in oven for 10 minutes with door open.

Cool completely before removing from pan.

Enjoy!


FINAL THOUGHTS

This is my second entry in a Gold Notes holiday entertaining series. Last week, I focused on wine storage. I haven't decided on next week's topic yet. (If you have a request, don't hesitate to let me know.) I also shared some holiday entertaining tips with my Tampa Tribune Flair Magazine readers this month. Click to page 41 to read this story, which includes tips from an appliance pro, caterer/cafe owner and wine expert.

TOP KITCHEN PRODUCTS FROM KBIS 2008

Every year, the leading companies in the kitchen and bath industry gather for the Kitchen/Bath Industry Show, the largest gathering of manufacturers, dealers and designers in North America. This year, the National Kitchen & Bath Association, which produces KBIS, decided to feature official bloggers to cover the show as it occurred. I was one of those bloggers. My beat was "luxury products."

This posting extends beyond the luxury market, though, to products that could benefit any of our kitchens. Here are those I feel are the most helpful, and fill the greatest need.

THERMADOR'S RECIRCULATING DOWNDRAFT

The first is Thermador's recirculating unit for its downdraft ventilation system. While downdrafts and recirculating models are less powerful than a conventional hood vented outdoors, this is a good solution for condo kitchens with island cooktops where outside venting isn't an option. I had one of those projects earlier this year and was delighted to find this solution at the show. Sister company, Bosch, is also offering a recirculating unit for its downdrafts. They're expected to be available by the end of August 2008.


MIELE RETRACTABLE HOOD

Here's another innovation in cooking ventilation systems from Miele. This one elevates when not in use. It is ideal for open plan kitchens with killer views, that would be partially obstructed by a standard hood. Shown here: Model DA424 is scheduled for October or November 2008 release.



COUNTERTOP-MOUNTED POT FILLER

These are not a new introduction, but nonetheless merit a mention as they've more than proved their value, and showed up at most of the fixture companies' booths. They are ideal for an island-based cooktop or range, where a wall-mounted pot-filler won't work. Shown: Hansgrohe's Talis S Pot Filler, Deck-Mounted.

VIKING'S INDUCTION RANGE

Just about every appliance manufacturer was showing an induction cooktop at KBIS. Viking was the only one I spotted with an induction range in the works. This is ideal for homeowners who want to replace appliances, not cabinets. The new induction range, expected at the end of this year or early 2009, can fit in the same spot as a 30-inch gas or electric range, and save you money on your utility bills. For more induction advantages, please see my earlier posting on this topic. If you'd like a sneak peak at the KBIS-displayed range prototype, you can click here at my KBIS Blog - Day One entry and scroll down three snapshots to see the photograph I took at the Viking booth.


KUPPERBUSCH'S INDUCTION WOK

While on the subject of induction cooking which, by now, you know I heartily endorse, this induction wok from German manufacturer, Kuppersbusch, is a great kitchen addition for those who enjoy stir-fry.



GE PROFILE'S SINGLE/DOUBLE WALL OVEN

If you'd love to have a double oven, but have a space-challenged kitchen, you'll love this innovation from GE Profile. It allows you to cook in two ovens while only using the space requirements of one. The larger, lower oven can accommodate a 22-pound turkey, while the upper one cooks side dishes. This is the perfect holiday helper, and is expected to debut October 2008.

DISHWASHER INNOVATIONS

Asko introduced two dishwasher innovations: a third rack for low-profile items like bowls and a special rack for extra glasses. Electrolux added a light to the interior of their dishwasher, which is handy if you drop something in the bottom after a late-night snack attack.


FISHER & PAYKEL'S COOLDRAWER

Fisher & Paykel, the folks who energized the dishwasher category with their double drawer model several years ago, have come up with something new, unique and very convenient. It’s a refrigerator. It’s a freezer. You set the temperature for your current need, then change it in the future if those needs changed. This versatile, single drawer-based appliance can live in your cooking zone under a cooktop, so no more carrying a slab of ribs across the kitchen. I can see this chiller also working well in a catering kitchen, a Kosher kitchen, (which frowns on dairy fraternizing with meat), a wheelchair-user’s kitchen, given its upper drawer placement, and my next kitchen, too.



MIELE'S REMOTEVISION TECHNOLOGY REFRIGERATORS

Imagine if your refrigerator alerted you if one of its doors was left open, (or if there was a malfunction threatening your perishables). You don't have to imagine any longer. Miele's new RemoteVision technology will do that for you. It won't tell you which son or daughter left the fridge open, but at least you'll know to phone home and get someone to close it! Shown below: One of Miele's refrigerator/freezer models with RemoteVision -- KF 1901 SF.

COMING SOON

Look for an upcoming "Top Bathroom Products from KBIS 2008" posting.

FINAL THOUGHTS

If you're interested in more information about any of these appliances not furnished here or on the company's web sites, please let me know. I may be able to get your questions answered through my manufacturers' contacts.

Also, if you live in the Tampa, Florida area, feel free to contact me to run some local comparison pricing for you. I do long-distance consulting on appliance planning, too, but not price comparisons out of area. Feel free to contact me at (813) 810-0467 or jamie@jgkitchens.com.

MY OLYMPIC DREAM

Did you watch the opening ceremonies of the Olympic Games last Friday night? I was one of the billion or so viewers who tuned in and enjoyed the festivities. My favorite moment, by far, was NBA and Team China basketball star Yao Ming leading the Chinese team in the Parade of Nations with Lin Hao, a nine-year-old Chinese earthquake survivor.

That scene touched me in so many ways. For one thing, it is so rare to see a celebrity today who is willing to share the spotlight with anyone else, much less a scene-stealing child. Another was the delicious contrast between the 7’6” giant and the diminutive boy walking next to him, both cheered mightily by their countrymen and guests alike.

The third was learning of the heroism of this youngster, who went back into the collapsed building to rescue two classmates. When asked later why he did this, after managing his own escape, he responded that he was a class leader risked his own safety because that’s what he was supposed to do as a leader. Wow. Yao Ming is also a leader in this regard. Though he now lives in Houston, Texas, he has established a charitable foundation to rebuild schools in the earthquake-struck region of China to higher construction standards so that no other children have to die.

So what does this all have to do with design, the primary focus of this blog. Being a designer myself and musing at the disparity between the towering basketball player and the tiny boy by his side, I began to wonder, how would I go about designing a kitchen for Yao Ming… That is my Olympic dream!


HEIGHTS OF SUCCESS

Clearly, you can’t fill a super-sized athlete’s kitchen with standard-height cabinets – not if he likes to cook at all. (His bride of one year, Ye Li, is a 6’3” member of China’s national women’s basketball team.) I would design their kitchen in a custom line that allows me to change the cabinets’ height, and identify which, if any, cooking tasks he enjoys participating in when he’s not on the road. For some very successful people, cooking is a relaxing hobby. If Yao Ming is among that group, I’d want to be sure his ergonomics were taken into account. Ye Li may want a taller prep section, too, given her stature.

I have read that Yao Ming’s mother, who now lives in the States and owns a restaurant in Houston, loves to cook old-fashioned Chinese food for her son. If Yao and his wife still enjoy having her cook for them in their home on a regular basis, as she did regularly when he was a bachelor, a section of the kitchen could be zoned for Mama Yao. Though she’s a retired basketball player herself and restaurateur, I would plan a table-height space in her section with some roll-under seating. That will let this hard worker get off her feet for a while as she preps her special dishes.


HEALTHY LIVING

Health is always a big concern for professional athletes. I would plan on construction materials for Yao Ming’s kitchen that would contribute to his well-being. For example, I’d probably specify Breathe Easy cabinetry, which is made from formaldehyde-free plywood with no- and low-VOC finishes. I’d recommend quartz countertops for an easy-maintenance, non-porous countertop. (I've blogged about both of these recently in a healthy kitchen posting.)

I would also suggest a softer floor than the typical stone or wood celebrity kitchen. NBA knees and feet already take a pounding on the court. They don’t need to do so at home. Cork or Marmoleum Click would be my health-based recommendations, as both are anti-allergenic and anti-mold. Rubber is another great option. While none of these really sound like they could meet a celebrity home’s style quotient, I promise you that I can deliver the aesthetic points, too.

A top-notch ventilation system must also be factored into this remodel, so that all the Yao chow, (my foodie husband’s pun, not mine, I swear), cooking gases escape outside. You can’t account for air quality in Houston or Beijing, but at least indoor air quality in this Houstonian home will be top-notch. I hear good breathing is quite helpful in sports.


HEAVY METAL

There are a few appliance categories that could particularly benefit this household. Since Yao and his wife both have professional athletes’ heavy travel schedules, Miele’s new refrigerators with RemoteVision – introduced at this year’s Kitchen/Bath Industry Show – are among those I’d suggest to this couple . The technology communicates any temperature malfunction or open fridge doors, (which could be really helpful if you’re on a long road trip), back to its manufacturer. The manufacturer then alerts a homeowner contact to alert them about trouble at home.

Given the customized height of this kitchen’s cabinets to accommodate the basketball players, a cooktop and wall ovens will work better than a range for the Yaos. I’m partial to induction cooking, as I’ve blogged about before. It’s more energy efficient and safer to use than a standard gas or electric cooktop, (especially for aging eyes and young hands, if the Yaos start a family in this home). Best of all, it offers the same cooking performance as professional gas burners without the need for gas flame or fuel.

A pair of wall ovens, one microwave/convection and one standard-steam could be good options for the Yaos. (Many Chinese dishes are prepared by steaming, so Kuppersbusch’s Combi-Steam oven could be ideal for this couple.) If space allows, I’d mount each in separate cabinets so that both ovens could be set at ideal heights for their users.

If Mama Yao is getting her own cooking section, she might enjoy an induction wok. Kuppersbusch demonstrated one at KBIS and it really sizzled. Many restaurateurs in Europe are switching to induction, I’m told. Mrs. Yao could start that trend among her U.S. colleagues. I’d also suggest a refrigerator of her own, so that she can have her preferred ingredients close at hand in her area. Two options present themselves: One is the standard, under-counter double drawer refrigerator widely available in both stainless and panel-ready versions. A new innovation – also launched at the most recent KBIS – is Fisher & Paykel’s CoolDrawer. This unit serves as either a refrigerator or freezer, depending on the user’s preference at any given time, and can install directly under a cooktop for both super-handy convenience and compact spaces.


FENG SHUI

I don’t have professional-level training in feng shui, the Chinese system of home and room arrangement, and its principles may be important to the Yaos, both natives of China. (I would have a feng shui consultant review the plans before any final decisions were made, if this were something the Yaos desired.)

In feng shui, the kitchen is extremely important, both in terms of its placement in the home and the placement of elements within it. Quite happily, many feng shui kitchen concepts mesh well with the design principles I already practice. For example, feng shui recommends that kitchens be located at the back of the home. This is ideal for houses with outdoor living areas just beyond the back door, as it creates a great indoor-outdoor entertaining flow.

Feng shui also suggests that the cook be able to see the room’s entry while working at the range or cooktop. This ties in well with participatory cooking/entertaining, which many young professionals enjoy. Given that we’re planning a cooktop for the Yaos, it can certainly be located on an island that faces the main views of the room. (Wouldn’t it be fun to watch someone so wonderfully dexterous play in the kitchen!)


STAR CENTER

I’m a strong believer that an open plan kitchen should fit well into its home environment, just like a team member fits with his team. One of the major mistakes I steer clients away from making is creating a gorgeous new kitchen that looks completely out of place in its setting. The Yaos already own a large, fairly new home in the Houston suburbs. I haven’t seen it for myself, but feel safe presuming that it has an open floor plan, as most young houses are designed that way. I would ensure that their remodeled kitchen, should they decide to take on such a project, would work for their home, their lives and their careers.

So call me some time, Rocket Man (or Mrs. Rocket Man)! Make my Olympic dream come true.