Kitchen Design and Bath Design for Remodeling
Kitchen design by Joanne Cannell
“Your creativity in presenting us with multiple design options and solutions to design problems was very helpful. We particularly appreciated your knowledge of and adherence to the period design of our home. Your research on appropriate design styles guided us toward products and features that are consistent with our 1920’s house but which still provide modern functionality. You were excellent at suggesting quality products in an appropriate price range. As we live with the remodeled rooms, we still appreciate your meticulousness. Your knowledge about how to make your designs ‘work’ is commendable.”
  -Kris and Bruce Erway

GENERAL KITCHEN AND BATH DESIGN TRENDS

Clever storage ideas: Baskets and shelves that pull out also pull down and turn to increase accessibility & organization.

Electronics: Lighting systems that allow for multiple lighting scenes. These can be wireless, which allows for easy installation. Sound systems can be wired throughout the house. Wall mounted televisions are increasingly popular.

Green Design/Eco-friendly: An evolving area as new products, codes and standards are developed, prices drop and options increase. There are many shades of green including: low toxic emissions; recycled content; raw materials used; replenishment; transportation methods; installation methods; cleanability and recyclability. Particular attention is being paid to energy savings & water conservation.

  • Plumbing: Low flow and touchless faucets. New technologies that deliver water savings without sacrificing performance.
  • Cabinets: Bamboo; lyptus; Kirei board and composite veneers for doors. Wheat board and plywood with no formaldehyde (and therefore no out-gassing) for cabinet boxes and under veneers.
  • Flooring: Linoleum, bamboo, reclaimed wood and cork
  • Countertops: Recycled glass, paper, quartz & concrete
  • CFL & LED lighting: CFLs (compact fluorescent light bulbs) have made major improvements. The better CFLs have a high color rendering index (85 or above) so that colors appear true. They have electronic ballasts so there is no hum, and decent dimming capabilities. LED lights are improving rapidly & new options for undercabinet, accent & general lighting are gaining popularity.

Universal Design: These practices are being increasing adopted – not just for aging in place or to accommodate a disability, but also to be prepared for injuries, and to protect visiting elderly relatives and children. Attractive new products make this easier to do. A few examples: Lever handles on doors;pulls instead of knobs on cabinets; hands-free faucets; toekick drawer to store a step stool; space underthe sink for wheelchair users, cabinets that open & close with one touch.

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© 2009 Joanne Cannell, CKD, CBD, CID
Site by Todd Blank Design
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