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Online Contents What’s new this month at kbbonline.com

Online NewsThe latest from the kitchen and bath industry

Digits

ConsumerAIA reports project decline and the rise of green

Ad Index

Editorial Index

TrendsThe latest dishwashers do it all

ProductsLighting and more

Design 28 Family Affair—A North Carolina kitchen gets real 32 Runner’s World—In Colorado, a bath fit for an athlete

FavoritesMark White’s top product picks

Editorial

ProfileMaryJo Camp loves what she does

AccessAccessibility is elegant in a California bath

TechCooking goes wireless

EducationHow to install large-format tile

PracticeTax deductions for trade show attendees

8

8

14

16

4849

18

20

28

50

12

26

36

38

44

46

information what to know to stay current

insight what to consider to stay savvy

inspiration what to discover to stay creative

Contents

28Cover storyFamily Affair: A kitchen remodelfosters ties that bindCover photo: © Michael Traister

The Contessa Collection by Walker Zanger shown on this page

kbbonline.com

Furnishing StyleWhat to consider when using furniture pieces in the kitchen or bath.www.kbbonline.com/furniture

The Condo ConundrumHow to maximize style and efficiency in a condo’s compact kitchen.www.kbbonline.com/condo

Keeping Up with the JetsonsPropel your kitchen and bath designs into the future with these high-techitems. www.kbbonline.com/future

THIS MONTH ONLINE

PROJECTS PRODUCTS DESIGNER’S CORNER RESOURCES NEWS & FEATURES MAGAZINE

8 KBB+ March 2009 / www.kbbonline.com / The Official Sponsor of K/BIS www.kbis.com

Designer’s Corner: Connect with your fellow designers and shareprojects at www.kbbonline.com/designerscorner

K+BBTV: Tune into K+BBTV for interviews, products and tips atwww.kbbtv.biz

Product Gallery: Learn about the latest and greatest k & b products at www.kbbonline.com/products

Projects: Get inspired by projects that appeared in the magazineat www.kbbonline.com/projects

Newsletter: Subscribe to Industry Watch, our email newsletter, atwww.kbbonline.com/newsletters

Breaking News: For the latest industry headlines, visit www.kbbonline.com/news

Letters to the Editor: Email your comments to ctrauthwein@kbbonline.com

Industry Events: View conference and trade show dates atwww.kbbonline.com/events

Directory of Online Services

Cambria Opens Design Center in CaliforniaCambria has opened a 4,000-sq.-ft. design and distribution center in Palm Desert, CA.

WAC Lighting Celebrates 25th Anniversary Offering track, recessed, undercabinet, monorail and decorative lighting, WAC Lighting is

celebrating its 25th anniversary this year.

NKBA Announces Student Design Competition WinnersThe National Kitchen & Bath Association has named the 10 winners of the 2008/2009

NKBA Student Design Competition. The winners will receive their awards during K/BIS in

Atlanta this May.

Snaidero USA Goes Green Responding to the increasing demand for eco-friendly products, Snaidero USA has added

a line of green cabinets that may be used to qualify for LEED certification.

• InformeDesign Launches InStore

• Green Purchasing Accreditation

Now Available

• Attendees at Coverings 2009 Can Choose

from Numerous Seminars

• Whirlpool Corporation Wins Education Award

from AIA

• Gaggenau Home Appliances Announces

Five-Year Warranty

• Eleek Releases Lamping Comparison Chart

• JACLO Announces Acquisition of

Taps & More

• NKBA Design Competition Finalists Revealed

* At press time

Most Viewed Online Stories* Industry News Check out kbbonline.com/news for the very latest kitchen & bath industry news

FeaturesWant more in-depth coverage? Check out these web exclusives

The GeorgetownLike its namesake city, our Georgetown line of kitchen cabinets exudes fashionand elegance. Featuring a rich, cherry-stained North American maple, finished witha dark brown glaze, the Georgetown cabinets will turn any kitchen into a showplace.

Your clients will be thrilled with the many options, including large crown and elegantrope molding, fluted fillers and turned spindle posts, to name a few. They’ll marvelat the intricate detail on the doors and drawer fronts.

And they’ll really be surprised by the affordability. After all, isn’t that what youexpect from JSI? Affordable luxury.

Come visit us at K/BIS 2009 Booth #B4603 and learn about our full selection ofkitchen and bath cabinetry.

485 Commerce DriveFall River, MA 02720

Toll Free: 800-239-0036T: (508) 675-4722F: (508) 675-4724

www.jsicabinetry.com

our salute to fine craftsmanship & tradition.

Circle No. 167

Copyright © 2009 by Nielsen Business Media, Inc. All rights reserved.

DESIGN + INNOVATION + LIFESTYLE / March 2009

VOL. 56, NO. 3

10 KBB JDec004+ March 2009 / www.kbbonline.com / The Official Sponsor of K/BIS www.kbis.com

REPRINTSMike ShoberThe YGS Group(800) 290-5460 Ext. 129kbb@theYGSgroup.com

CIRCULATION CUSTOMER SERVICE(847) 763-9050FAX: (847) 763-9037kbb@halldata.com

LIST RENTAL PRODUCT MANAGERMichele Wiesner(646) 654-7220

SUPPORTPRODUCTION MANAGER

James M. Green(646) 654-7242

James.Green@nielsen.com

GROUP FINANCE DIRECTORHelen Maxey

(770) 291-5408Helen.Maxey@nielsen.com

BUSINESS MANAGER, LICENSING & EVENTSBarbara Grieninger

barbara.grieninger@nielsen.com

The Official Sponsor of

EDITORIALEDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Christina Trauthwein(646) 654-4481

ctrauthwein@kbbonline.com

CREATIVE DIRECTORJonathan Marsland

(646) 654-4472jmarsland@kbbonline.com

ART DIRECTORMichelle Matteson

(646) 654-4486michelle.matteson@nielsen.com

EXECUTIVE EDITORAlice Liao

(646) 654-4408aliao@kbbonline.com

SENIOR EDITORSallie Moffat

(646) 654-4407smoffat@kbbonline.com

ASSOCIATE EDITORMatthew Marin(646) 654-4496

matthew.marin@kbbonline.com

INDUSTRY WATCH eNEWSLETTERNichole Schulze

naschulze@yahoo.com

PUBLISHERDoug Krainman770 Broadway, New York, NY 10003(646) 654-4409Doug.Krainman@nielsen.com

TERRITORY MANAGERSSOUTH & WESTJoy Williams103 Oak Grove Lane, Boyd, TX 76023(940) 433-5375; FAX: (940) 433-5425jwilliams@kbbonline.com

EAST COASTPaul Bienkowski2422 Ellington Rd., South Windsor, CT 06074(860) 644-3861; FAX: (860) 644-0700pbienkowski@cox.net

EAST COASTPhil ViscidiOne Hollis St., Suite 305, Wellesley, MA 02482(781) 431-1320; FAX: (781) 431-1968phil@viscidi.com

ACCOUNT MANAGER, GALLERY, CLASSIFIEDS and SPECIAL SECTIONSFatima Ruiz770 Broadway, New York, NY 10003(646) 654-5763; FAX: (646) 654-4417fruiz@kbbonline.com

VP KITCHEN AND BATH GROUPBrian Pagel1145 Sanctuary Parkway, Suite #355, Alpharetta, GA 30004(770) 291-5438Brian.Pagel@nielsen.com

EDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARDGary White, CMKBD; John

Buscarello, ASID; Dick Titus; Lloyd Princeton; James Lev, AIA;Candace Morris; Jeff Cannata,

CMKBD; Roderick Shade; Florence Perchuk, CKD;

Jeff Burton; David Stimmel

Phillip M. Perry is a New York City-based writer

who has published widely in the fields of busi-

ness management, workplace psychology

and employment law. A 20-year veteran of

both sides of the editorial desk, Perry is now

syndicated in several magazines nationwide,

and his byline has appeared more than 3,000

times. A two-time recipient of The American

Bar Association’s annual award for editorial

excellence, Perry was awarded an M.A. in the

Humanities from California State University and is currently working

toward a Doctor of Arts from Harrison Middleton University in Tempe,

AZ. He has spoken before the American Society of Journalists and

Authors on the subject of business magazine journalism. Perry is a

member of the Manhattan Chamber of Commerce and maintains a

website at www.editorialcalendar.net. (Practice, page 46)

James R. Lev, AIA, NCARB, is senior project man-

ager at Hagney Architects in Rockford, IL. He

has more than 25 years of experience in design

and construction administration for a variety of

projects. His portfolio includes educational

buildings, research and training facilities, com-

puter centers, hospitals, churches, office and

financial centers and manufacturing and indus-

trial buildings. Lev has served as an adjunct pro-

fessor and lecturer at the University of Illinois at

Urbana and is currently a member of the K+BB editorial advisory

board. (Consumer, page 16)

Damien Guermont, owner of Soleil Home

Improvements, which serves southern New Jer-

sey and Philadelphia, has 12 years of experi-

ence remodeling homes. Given Guermont’s

background in architecture, along with his culi-

nary experience, function of design plays a

large part in his business. His main objective is to

deliver custom solutions for every client’s needs.

Providing quality workmanship with an eye for

detail, he stays on top of the industry through

research and education. For more information about Soleil Home

Improvements, please visit www.soleilhomeimprovements.com.

(Education, page 44)

Contributors

Reinventing the 36" Refrigerator

This is what happens when you leave Liebherr

engineers and designers alone in a room with a

fridge. Leading design and innovation now exists in

the 36" size category with the introduction of the

new 2062 Series of high performance refrigerators

available in freestanding and integrated models.

Unique LED light columns and LED drawer lights

illuminate 20 cubic feet of storage capacity. The

dual refrigeration system, with two separate

variable speed compressors, provides superior and

consistent cooling in the most energy efficient

manner possible. And the eloquent French doors

coupled with double freezer drawers make it a

kitchen showpiece.

www.liebherr-appliances.com

Design, Quality and InnovationCircle No. 155

Editorial

Again, it’s really easy: Log on to www.linkedin.com, create a profile if you

haven’t already (it’s quick, easy and free!), request to join the Network

and voilà, you’re in (we approve you). As I write this, we’re up to 226

members—your colleagues and peers. You can ask questions, answer

questions and bounce ideas off of those who share the same passion

and profession as you. There have been a lot of thought-provoking dis-

cussions and thoughtful comments posted thus far, so I thought I would

pick a topic and share it with you, our K+BB readers, to keep you in the

loop on what the design community is talking about and to possibly give

you some ideas in managing your businesses, especially in these tough

economic times. Oh, and I figure maybe, just maybe, if you get a taste of

what’s going on in the Network, it will give you that extra nudge to join.

I selected this question, as I believe it just may be top-of-mind for many

of you: During this economy, what are some additional ways to get your

name out there? Here are some excerpts from the responses, in bullet for-

mat for your convenience, as they address “the new reality” of the current

times. Hopefully you, too, can benefit from them:

• Come up with a motto for your business, such as “When the surf’s

up, go for all you can get,” or “Spend and invest only on the things that

will help turn a profit now and in the immediate future.”

• Now is a great time to find out how your customers are doing and

how they feel about the last job you did for them. They may give you

some great referrals or repeat business.

• Strengthen your targeted marketing efforts. Start a newsletter for

your previous client list or build a mailing list and send them necessary

and interesting information. One writer recommends www.constantcon-

tact.com. Were you published recently? Include the article.

• Work on your website and maybe even start a blog.

• Foreclosed homes will be bought and a new round of remodeling

will begin. Be ready for that by learning about those buyers and what

their needs and expectations will be. Most likely, they will be cautious

types, “penny pinchers.” Find out what that means.

• Align yourselves with contractors, painters, craftsmen, paint stores,

carpet stores, etc. that are willing to reciprocate with leads.

• Offer clinics and supply handouts with your business card

attached. These can be about design choices or about the economy,

such as “How to Stretch Your Dollar When Remodeling.” How about

something on auditing your home for quick, energy-efficient kitchen and

bath updates?

All great ideas, but if that doesn’t get you thinking, maybe this one

will. Here’s another question that is posted on the Network: Are kitchen

and bath dealers going to be the next generation’s dinosaurs? OK, now

I know I’ve whetted your appetite. Join the group and find out what

they’re saying about that.

Off topic a little bit, but related, as I’m curious to know what you all

think. I have a question. And this one is much less of a downer, as it’s, well,

in my opinion, almost goofy. But I’d like you to weigh in on it. In this

month’s issue, our Trends piece (page 18) is about dishwashers and the

strides that have been made in their performance and how they “do it

all.” This, of course, prompted me to recall an article I read (and clipped

for just this purpose) in a New York newspaper a few months ago titled,

“Doing the Dishes.” The tagline reads: “No oven required—create a deli-

cious and healthful holiday meal, all in the dishwasher.” It goes on to

explain that it’s often challenging to prepare such a feast in the confines

of an oven and on a simple cooktop. It is tough. I know that firsthand. But,

the article advises you not to worry because an ingenious idea from chef

and restaurateur David Burke could save the day…and meal (and

aggravation!). The dishwasher, you see, is no longer relegated to clean-

ing up after the meal, but can actually cook the meal, too! It all has to

do with that healthy choice called steaming. Not just the “roast beast,”

though. The side dishes too. Don’t believe me? He supplied recipes for

such favorites as dishwasher turkey, steamed spinach with lemon and

garlic, mushroom, shallots and thyme, and who could forget, stuffing.

Yum. Just please, leave out the Cascade! OK, I promised there was a

question in all of this, so here goes: Would you ever advise your clients to

cook in their dishwasher? Is this crazy? Or, am I? Like I said, just asking… �

A few months ago, I mentioned the K+BB Designers Network on LinkedIn and invited our designer audience to join the group.

12 KBB July 2004March 2009 / www.kbbonline.com / The Official Sponsor of K/BIS www.kbis.com+

Christina Trauthwein, Editor-in-Chiefctrauthwein@kbbonline.com

Just Asking

A Cleaner, Safer Countertop.

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Digits

We’ve got your number…

346

The amount of CO2 reduced per year byusing a solar water heating system,

according to Alno

1,000 lbs The amount of CO2 reduced peryear by wrapping a water heater in an

insulating jacket

2,490 lbs The amount of CO2 reduced byinsulating the home, tuning up the furnaceand installing energy-efficient showerheads

720 lbs

m i l l i o n

March 2009 / www.kbbonline.com / The Official Sponsor of K/BIS www.kbis.com

The number of states projected toface water shortages in the next fiveyears, according to a recent issue ofPMI News

27 %27

40The number ofgallons of freshwater the UnitedStates uses everyday, according to aDanze newsletter

The increase in home entertaining in thepast six months, according to the

November 2008 edition of the Evo newsletter

Circle No. 51

Consumer

The American Institute of Architects (AIA) conducts a quarterly survey of

500 architectural firms practicing in the residential market. The subject of

the survey varies, ranging from business activity in residential markets to

development features and trends, to materials, home features and

kitchen and bath trends. The third quarter survey polled architects on a

potpourri of topics, including regional market and business trends,

design features, popular products and systems.

DOWN & UP • Trends. Business trends in residential markets continue to reflect the

weaknesses in the overall housing sector of the economy. Trends as late

as the third quarter of 2007 were still showing slowing yet positive growth.

Moving into 2008, the trends slipped into decline and the downturn

increased as the year wore on. Fifty percent of the architectural firms sur-

veyed reported decreased billings of at least 5 percent, while 57 per-

cent reported declines in inquiries regarding new work. The most positive

results once again came from the Northeast and Midwest regions,

where the downturn in business was not as severe, thanks to higher per-

centages of remodeling and renovation work. By contrast, the Southern

and Western regions were the most severely affected by the downturn

during the past year, despite having reported, until recently, the most

activity in new residential construction.

• Segments. While all segments of the residential housing market were

showing declines in business in the past 12 months, the greatest reduction

took place in the second-home and vacation-home markets. These mar-

ket segments were followed closely by those for first-time buyers, affordable

homes, move-up homes, townhouses and condos, and custom homes.

New home construction that targets first-time buyers didn’t show a signifi-

cant difference from last year’s performance, perhaps indicating that, at

least, this market segment is about to reverse in the coming months.

A year ago, homeowners were investing in their existing properties with

significant activity in remodeling, kitchen and bath renovation projects

and home additions. Not so this year. That market segment has experi-

enced a sizable drop, which can be attributed to decreases in home

equity and the inability of homeowners to finance remodeling projects.

• Green. Increased energy, gas, oil and electricity costs continue to

influence design trends in the housing market. A year ago, homebuyers

and home remodelers were already seeking out energy conservation

features and their interest has not waned. Green design continues to

influence the choice of materials and construction in projects where

homeowners request energy-efficient and low-maintenance solutions.

In fact, more than 75 percent of the architects surveyed reported

requests for these features.

Sustainable design solutions and products are also on the shopping

lists of and being displayed in model homes. These include permeable

paving, which reduces storm-water run-off, as well as recycled paving

and landscape materials. Recycled, reclaimed, salvaged and sustain-

able materials continue to be highly popular, as are sustainable and

recycled roofing products, which have gathered interest as homeown-

ers become more aware of their availability. Helping to push interest on

this front, developers are willing to customize to attract buyers and

reduce their inventory of unsold properties.

SIMPLICITY IS KEY At the same time, buyers seem to be less concerned with design and

detail, paying less attention to property appearance and gravitating

toward simplicity in look and aesthetic. Similarly, contemporary and

streamlined styles are gaining in preference over those that are more

traditional. Not surprisingly, homeowners are also showing an affinity for

homes that are more affordable and pared down.

The past year has shown dramatic decreases in housing develop-

ment and construction, with numerous housing developments stalled or

abandoned and homebuyers turning to alternative housing options. The

result is a rethinking of development and marketing trends. Developers

are looking to more affordable and smaller-scale projects. This has led to

development of infill sites in urban settings where access to existing utili-

ties reduces site development costs. Such infill sites offer a better chance

of a property retaining value. Urban sites often provide better access to

public transportation, jobs and recreation.

Future surveys will cover remodeling and kitchen and bath trends.

Look for the next report in an upcoming issue of K+BB. �

—James R. Lev, AIA, is senior project manager at Hagney Architects in

Rockford, IL, and is a member of the K+BB editorial advisory board.

Slow Times

16 KBB+ March 2009 / www.kbbonline.com / The Official Sponsor of K/BIS www.kbis.com

AIA’s third quarter survey reflects economic downturn

Business trends in residential markets continue to reflectthe weaknesses in the overall housing sector of the market.

K+BB’s Market Forecaster Report provides you withthe answers you need to move your businessforward including:

� Economic trends including consumer confidence,

appliance shipments, home improvement spending

� Remodeling vs. New Construction projections

� Kitchen and bath jobs planned for 2009 and price points

� Projected sales by job category

� Sales by retail channels

� Sales by product specifiers: designers/architects,

buy-it-yourselfers or do-it-yourselfers

� What are the best opportunities for profitabilityin 2009 and beyond?

The Essential Resource for Market Insightto Help You Strategize and Drive Sales

For the past 23 years, K+BB has exclusively brought you thekitchen and bath industry Market Forecaster Report. Publishedannually and drawn from independent research, the Reportidentifies and interprets the industry’s key trends for theupcoming year and beyond. Based on survey results from3,000+ consumers and design professionals, thiscomprehensive report is the only industry research of its kind.

As we have all recently seen, market conditions are now aptto change at an exceedingly rapid pace, making time-sensitive information more critical than ever before. To addressthis growing need in the marketplace, K+BB and Standpointwill follow up the 2009 Market Forecaster Report with a series ofFour Quarterly Updates. These updates will provide the latestinsights into consumer trends and market key performanceindicators, giving you additional and invaluable perspectiveinto where the market is headed.

M MarketForecasterF24th Annual

Report 2009

PLEASE SEND ME:

� 2009 Market Forecaster Report and 4 Quarterly Updates $995 � 2009 Market Forecaster Report $595

� 2009 Regional Report $195 Per Region

Company Name:

Contact Name: Title:

Address: City: State: Zip:

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Method of Payment: � Check (due with order)** Credit Card � American Express � Visa � Mastercard

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Signature:

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FAX BACK TO FATIMA RUIZ (646) 654-7108

MF2009

The only constant in life is change.And our market is no different.

Stay Ahead of Your Competition… go to www.kbbonline.com or call Fatima Ruizat (646) 654-5763 to purchase your 2009 K+BB Market Forecaster Report Today!

With significant advances being made in wash programs, noise reduc-

tion, aesthetics and eco-friendliness, the latest dishwashers are pushing

the limits of technology and style, giving designers and consumers

greater convenience and more choices. And why not? “If you can add

features to the dishwasher without wasting energy and water, or having

to reconfigure an existing kitchen, then everyone wins,” said Jamie

Gibbs, ASID, IFDA, WCAA, of Jamie Gibbs and Associates.

One winner, of course, is the environment. According to Matthew

Kueny, senior product manager at Miele, manufacturers have been

working hard to “squeeze” every ounce of cleaning performance out of

their machines while minimizing energy and water usage. In fact, more

models are offering water-saving programs as standard and feature

water-conserving improvements to such internal components as spray

arms, pumps and basket designs.

Similarly, steam dishwashers, which consume less water than tradition-

al dishwashers, have been hitting the market and are expected to

become more commonplace. The residential units haven’t been truly

tested yet, “but steam is the method of choice for restaurants,” said

Gibbs. “The technology has been there for years.”

SOMETIMES SEEN BUT NOT HEARDTechnology is also helping to phase out noisy dishwashers—a major

concern for homeowners, noted Jamie Piper, senior category manager

of premium products for Whirlpool Corporation. “Homeowners want to

be able to carry on their daily lives in the kitchen, have a conversation or

watch TV without listening to the dishwasher,” she said. In response, com-

panies are reducing decibel levels by incorporating specialized motors or

new insulation techniques. The result? While older dishwashers operated

at around 60-70 decibels, current models run at a quiet 41-50 decibels.

In terms of finishes, stainless steel remains popular, said Kueny, with

black and white gaining momentum. For those who prefer a seamless

appearance, integrated front panels and trim kits abound to fully, or

partially, blend dishwashers in with surrounding cabinetry. And for

added sleekness, many units come with electronic touch pads and/or

concealed, integrated controls.

SPACE FRIENDLY For larger kitchens where two dishwashers—one for everyday dishes

and cookware and the other for delicate wash—are becoming the norm,

demand is high for drawer-style units, which provide a spacious and flexi-

ble configuration. “Smaller loads can be easily accommodated in just

one drawer, cutting down energy and water consumption,” Gibbs said.

Another space-saving trend is the growing popularity of compact

dishwashers that measure 18 in. in width. According to Gibbs, the narrow

models are ideal not only for kitchens with space constraints, but also for

other-room applications such as outdoor kitchens and media rooms.

And what about the future? Undoubtedly, dishwashers will continue

to evolve, providing more space solutions and greener features. “Work-

ing with the soap manufacturers, I see dishwasher water being recycled

as gray water for irrigation purposes in the future,” Gibbs said. “I see side-

by-side units with doors that hinge sideways to complement the side-by-

side refrigerators.” As far as dishwashers have come, there’s still so much

more to look forward to. �

—Matthew Marin

Dishing It OutToday’s advanced dishwashers give their all

18 KBB July 2004+ March 2009 / www.kbbonline.com / The Official Sponsor of K/BIS www.kbis.com

Trends

July 2004 KBB 19+www.kbbonline.com / March 2009

[1] Using as little as 2.9 gallons of water per cycle and exceeding 2011 Energy Star requirements for water and energy consumption, Miele’s

G 2002 La Perla series offers a Turbo feature that speeds up wash programs by 35 percent and automatically adjusts the temperature of the

water in the wash and rinse cycles. Circle No. 200 [2] Fisher & Paykel’s Energy Star-rated Tall DishDrawer combines ergonomic design with

such water-saving benefits as the option of running a smaller load, which consumes as little as 1.98 gallons of water. The unit’s top drawer can

fit 13-in. plates and features a racking system with vertically adjustable and independent cup racks, as well as enhanced plate racks. Circle

No. 201 [3] Ideal for compact spaces, the GE Profile 18-in. dishwasher is sized to wash eight place settings at one time, includes a special glass-

ware cycle and runs at 50 decibels. Available with a contoured door or a custom panel, the appliance features controls discreetly integrated

into the top edge of the unit. Circle No. 202 [4] KitchenAid’s Superba Series EQ dishwasher features the EQ Wash System, which reduces

motor noise to just 41 decibels. The system utilizes pressure-optimizing wash arms that provide concentrated wash performance and a variable

speed motor, which automatically adjusts power based on water conditions. Circle No. 203 [5] LG’s LDF7932ST SteamDishwasher allows for

thorough cleaning of baked-on foods while using less water than other power-scrub methods. The dishwasher includes fully integrated controls,

two LEDs that signal the status of the wash process, a 16-place-setting capacity and a built-in food disposer at 50 decibels. Circle No. 204

[2]

[4][3]

[1]

[5]

Products

20 KBB July 2004+ March 2009 / www.kbbonline.com / The Official Sponsor of K/BIS www.kbis.com

From Dusk to Dawn

What’s Hot In Lighting

Available with 12 or 20 frosted glass teardrops suspended on stainless-steel arms, the Twilight 12 &20 chandelier from LBL Lighting is offered in a satinnickel finish. Twilight 12 is 31 in. in diameter, whileTwilight 20 measures 40 in. in diameter. Both can beswapped out with heat-resistant Flite paper shades,and additional Confuzion teardrops in several colors can be ordered separately. Circle No. 205

July 2004 KBB 21+www.kbbonline.com / March 2009

Also available in ceiling, table and wallversions, Studio Italia Design’s Lace SOpendant luminaire has a hand-blown clearcrystal diffuser and a chrome frame.Adjustable for direct or indirect lighting, itmeasures just over 113/4 in. in height andtakes one 40W candelabra-base E12 lamp.Circle No. 207

Crystal Clear

For more products, go to www.kbbonline.com/products.

Foscarini’s Wagashi luminaire is nowavailable with a shade resembling aclosely woven web of metal threads.Named Wires, the fixture is comprised

of a metal structure covered with aprinted fabric diffuser and can be

mounted to the wall or ceiling. Itcomes in three sizes and can take

incandescent or fluorescent lamps.Circle No. 208

Designed by David Trubridge, one of New Zealand’s mostcelebrated green designers, essenze’s Squirt is a sculpturalpendant made from natural and untreated hoop pine plywood and hand-sanded polycarbonate strips. Measuring 861/2 in. tall, it takes two lamps. Circle No. 206

Light Sculpture

Part of Thomas Lighting’s Ditto family of luminaires, this three-light bathsconce (Model M1643-96) features contemporary elements to freshenup a traditional design. Measuring 231/2 in. wide by 111/2 in. high, thefixture is equipped with soft white, mouth-blown glass shades that provide contrast against a dark gunmetal finish. Circle No. 209

Wall Art

Under the Wire

22 KBB July 2004+ March 2009 / www.kbbonline.com / The Official Sponsor of K/BIS www.kbis.com

What’s Cool

Products

Everywhere ElseEverywhere Else

Made from porcelain stoneware, theBarcode collection from Attivissimofeatures a sequence of numbers andvertical lines. The collection utilizesrough-ground, polished, satin andantiqued finishes. Barcode comes intwo sizes—8 in. x 8 in. and 16 in. x 16in.—and a variety of colors that canbe hand-selected and personalized.Circle No. 210

Going Digital

Perlick’s new 24-in. ADA-compliant undercounter

refrigeration products eachmeasure 32 in. in height, allowing

for maximum capacity whilecomplying with strict 34-in.

counter-height regulations.Shelving also extends completely

out of the cabinet for easy access.The line includes a freezer, a

refrigerator, freezer and refrigeratordrawers, a beverage center, awine reserve and a 53-pound-

capacity icemaker. Circle No. 212

Easy Access

Derek Marshall Lighting introducesConstellation, a seven-element chandelier

consisting of three tiers of American art glassthat has been cut, curved and polished into

a graceful overlapping pattern. The fixturemeasures 32 in. in diameter and 24 in. in

depth and takes incandescent, halogen andcompact fluorescent lamps. Circle No. 211

Star Gazing

New Dimensions

Julien Home Refinements has addedmore sizes and configurations to itspopular J7, UrbanEdge and ClassicCollections (shown) of kitchen sinks. Thenew options include 28 single-bowlmodels, five one-and-three-quarter-bowl (or trough-style) designs and twodouble-bowl versions. Circle No. 213

From Dornbracht, the fully articulateddesign of the Tara Ultra pot filler

extends completely to fill pots andswivels 360 degrees to stay tucked

away in a crowded workspace.Available in polished chrome, platinum

matte and platinum finishes, itmeasures 133/4 in. tall with an arm that

reaches 195/8 in. Circle No. 214

Fill ’Er Up

Influenced by the latest decoration andfurniture trends in cosmopolitan cities,Azuvi’s Urban tile line from the GeotechCollection comes in red, cobalt, bone,white, gold, black, silver and cream. Madefrom colored-body porcelain, the 44-cm x63-cm tiles have a matte finish and varyslightly in shade from piece to piece.Circle No. 216

Urban Jungle

my imagination free

“Whi te R iver sets

wi thout any l imi t a t ions.”

- Beth Thomas, Interior Designer

Embellished Hardwood Mouldings & Woodcarvings

Helping you create unique style and beauty for Cabinetry and Interiors is what White River is all about. No one knows this Industry and your needs better – that’s why we help you achieve your design goals with the ultimate in ease and simplicity. To explore all the possibilities, visit us at www.WhiteRiver.com and enjoy: 7 Collections, 1500 Products e - Catalog for 20-20 Technologies & Planit Solutions Design Gallery with over 250 Design Ideas In Stock, Prompt Shipment

You can also take your creativity further by requesting our product catalog by calling 800.558.0119.

WhiteRiver.com’s website received a total of 6 awards including Best Overall, Best in Class for Best Design, Best Product Information and Best Section for Professionals.

Circle No. 45

Bruce Hardwood Floors’ Park Avenue(shown) and Reserve laminate flooringcollections replicate the appearanceof solid, exotic hardwoods. Theselaminates are more resistant toscratches and dents than engineeredwood. Park Avenue is offered in fivedistinctive finishes: Ironwood in twocolors, Pradoo, Makore and exoticwalnut. Circle No. 215

Look Alikes

Products

JSI’s ergonomically craftedPrinceton, a contemporary-style

vanity in ebony-stainedbamboo, stands 341/2 in. tall and

21 in. deep. The vanity includessolid, 3/4-in. bamboo face

frames, slab doors andmatching drawer fronts, and

features European-styleconcealed, adjustable hinges. It

incorporates 5/8-in. drawer boxesand heavy-duty, side-mounteddrawer glides. Circle No. 218

Princeton Study

Capturing the welcomingpresence of the Caribbean,the Havana standard finishfrom Diamond Cabinetsfeatures a smooth, earthyblend of dark chocolatetones. This translucent stainshowcases the wood’s naturalgrain while providingmultitonal depth and can beused with contrasting colorsand textures. Circle No. 219

Little Havana

Circle No. 29

With colors ranging from bright Mediterranean huesto subtle browns and grays, the Contessa Collectionby Walker Zanger features handcrafted ceramicsthat reflect patterns inspired by Spain, Italy, Chinaand Morocco. The collection is available in metallicfinishes, such as genuine gold or silver leaf, and tilesmeasure 45/8 in. x 45/8 in. Circle No. 217

Old-World Eclectic

Liebherr has expanded its Premium Plus 24-in.refrigeration line with a fully integrated refrigerator(Model HRB 1110) that features the company’spatented BioFresh system and LED light columns, aswell as a fully integrated freezer with icemaker (ModelHRB HF 851). Both incorporate a soft-close door systemand are Energy Star-rated. Circle No. 220

Freshen Up

From Hettich, the single-walled MultiTech steel drawersystem can be used for both

face-frame and framelessconstructions. Available in

white and gray, the drawersare offered in five heights—21/8 in., 33/8 in., 45/8 in., 6 in.

and 83/8 in.—and sevenlengths. The system can be

screwed together orassembled without tools.

Circle No. 221

The Steelers

Gerber introduces theAvalanche 1.28 high-efficiencytoilet, a single-flush gravity-fedmodel that uses only 1.28 gpf.Engineered with Gerber’sproprietary XP3 flushing system,the toilet features a 3-in. flushvalve, a Fluidmaster fill valve, aspecially designed jet feed, rimstructure and trapwayconfiguration—all contributingto its performance. It isavailable in white and biscuit.Circle No. 222

Flushed Out

Famous for its legendary Michigan Avenue, Chicago will also be known for magnificent miles of tile and stone inspiration this April. Attend Coverings in Chicago and see the world’s leading suppliers present the latest trends, technical specifications, installation methods, color stories and so much more. Find inspiration for your next project among the magnificent vignettes and become a better practitioner by attending the industry’s finest conference program. It’s the only opportunity in North America to see the world of tile and stone come together under one roof. And it’s all FREE.

IF YOU CAN ONLY ATTEND ONE SHOW THIS YEAR, CHOOSE COVERINGS.

Visit www.coverings.com for FREE registration and to learn more.

Use VIP Code CKB69 when registering.

FOR MAGNIFICENT MILES OF INSPIRATION,

CHOOSE COVERINGS.CHICAGO 2009.

Circle No. 65

26 KBB July 2004+ March 2009 / www.kbbonline.com / The Official Sponsor of K/BIS www.kbis.com

Profile

What learning experience has had the most impact on you?The biggest learning experience I’ve had has been in teaching. It’s

that moment when you’re talking to the students, then one of them

illuminates your point to the rest of the class, and you see in their faces

that they get it.

What words of wisdom would you share with others? If you love what you do, success follows.

What is the best thing that has happened in the profession in the pastfive years?

With the economic downturn, we’re seeing homes getting small-

er and more human in scale. People are making decisions based

on what’s important to them. It furthers good design to have con-

sumers really thinking about what they’re purchasing and what their

needs are.

What kind of architecture motivates you to design?Architecture that incorporates space for human interaction.

Kitchens are a place for collaboration and communication. It’s a busy

world out there, and we want to come home and be able to use our

space to satisfy our needs.

What, as a designer, is particularly challenging when dealing withclients? How do you deal with the challenge?

When clients might not understand our concept and have differ-

ent ideas about their space. I think a little bit of honesty goes a long

way. I think it’s hard for me as a designer to give up a detail that the

client doesn’t want. Sometimes you have to let it go.

Tell us about your favorite client.I have one right now. She knows more about energy efficiency

than I do. She works for an energy department. She is very open to

new ideas, collaborative, knowledgeable and pretty straightforward.

Do you have any professional pet peeves?As an industry, we jump on the creative bandwagon. But I think

there’s a lot of room for different ideas. I’ll see a designer with a very

distinctive style and philosophy, and then I see people copying

instead of developing something different.

What is your greatest strength as a designer?Listening to my clients and having a sense of humor.

What’s the coolest thing you ever put in one of your projects? I put a golf hole in the floor of a kitchen. The husband can putt

indoors while his wife is fixing dinner. We also added a small cap for

the hole so no one would trip over it when he wasn’t putting.

What are some of the proudest experiences in your career? Do youhave any regrets?

I like the fact that I’ve been able to reinvent myself and do differ-

ent jobs within the industry. As for regrets, I wish I had time to do more.

What do you like to do in your spare time when not designing? I like gardening. I have a small, intimate garden in my backyard,

and I just enjoy being out there.

If you could have a five-minute conversation with anyone, dead oralive, who would it be?

My dad. He passed away 32 years ago. He raised eight kids and

he always let me know that I can do anything that I set my mind to. �

—Matthew MarinFor more of this interview, go to www.kbbonline.com/Camp.

A 30-year veteran of the kitchen and bath industry, MaryJo Camp, CKD,CBD, CID, has worn many hats in her professional life, including owningher own design firm at one point in her career. But what she most enjoysis teaching interior design students. In fact, not only is Camp an adjunctprofessor at Cañada College, an NKBA-endorsed college in RedwoodCity, CA, but she also frequently takes her design courses on the road.Most recently, she spoke at “The How and Wow of Great Kitchens” session at the International Builders’ Show in Las Vegas in January. In

addition, during the past five years, Camp has designed and overseenthe construction of many appliance showrooms that demonstrate thelatest kitchen trends. She is active in the NKBA and serves as VP of theCalifornia Council for Interior Design Certification. Currently, the award-winning designer, who resides in San Francisco, works as national VP ofmarketing for FBA Holdings—an appliance distributor consisting of Flori-da Builder Appliances, Standards of Excellence and Westar—which has24 showrooms serving Florida, California, Arizona and Nevada.

Q & AMaryJo Camp, CKD, CBD, CID

WWe’ve all seen those kitchens (and maybe you even own one)—beauti-

ful, sleek and perfect. Perfect, that is, for the camera and a magazine,

but not so much for people. Oftentimes, designers get so caught up in

creating a style and homeowners in recreating a look, that together,

they forget function. And for most of us, the kitchen is a usable space

and a livable space, filled with family, friends and even children.

This idea was not lost on the owners of this home in Jamestown, NC,

nor was it overlooked by designer Lisa Principe, of CKS Kitchens &

Design, when remodeling the home’s expansive kitchen. The new

kitchen, with its more-than-generous gathering space and kid-friendly

touches is all about putting family first.

While the house is only a few decades old, it sits on land that has

been in the homeowner’s family, passed down through generations,

for hundreds of years. The house, though generous in size, needed to

be updated for a growing family. “The homeowner was pregnant with

her fourth child when she approached me,” said Principe, who collab-

orated with Manhattan-based interior designer Seborn Ragsdale,

brother-in-law of the client. “They came to me with some pretty defini-

tive ideas.” The homeowners wanted the kitchen to combine family

history and tradition with modern design and conveniences, and to

“provide enough flexibility for cooking while entertaining family and

friends,” said Principe. While the clients requested an updated and

fresh design, they also wanted to remain somewhat true to the older

look and structure of the house, so a clean, uncluttered traditional

style was favored over a sleek, streamlined, contemporary aesthetic.

“They wanted a relaxed, casual feel to their kitchen with lots of space

for prep and cleanup, multiple eating surfaces and an area for their

three children to do homework,” said Principe.

Sounds like a lot to fit into one space, doesn’t it? Not a problem.

By the time the clients had contacted Principe, structural changes

were already afoot. She noted, “They tore down a wall that separat-

ed the existing kitchen from an adjacent room and opened up the

space to become what is now their 34-ft. x 21-ft. kitchen.” And while

most of us can only dream of having such an abundance of space,

the sheer size of this kitchen posed the biggest challenge for the

designer. “It’s not often that, as a designer, you have what you’d

consider to be too much space, but it was huge,” said Principe.

“The good news, of course, is that we had enough room to plan

each of the separate areas to fulfill the client’s wishes, but getting

the balance and proportion in something of this size can be difficult.

You have to be extra careful in making sure it’s still warm and inti-

mate.” She succeeded.

“The client was really generous with her approvals, allowing Seborn

and I to take the space and develop it ourselves,” said Principe. The two

worked closely to select a color palette and materials that responded

to the owners’ wish for something with softness and color. As a result,

“we chose paints, not wood stains,” noted Principe. White-painted

maple cabinetry anchors the room, with a “touch of color” on the main

island. “Without some contrast, the room would appear monochromat-

ic, and in a space this large, monolithic, which is the opposite of what

the client wanted,” said Principe. The cabinetry features square inset

doors that provide a clean line, and beadboard panels articulate the

base of the kitchen’s two islands, again to add some contrast while

keeping with the traditional theme. Moreover, the kitchen includes a

custom, quarter-sawn oak desk and hutch in a deep cocoa brown

stain, bringing not only additional wood textures and tones into the

space, but providing a furniture look to the family-oriented kitchen.

This theme extends to the finer details. For example, latches on

stacked upper cabinets are a substitute for more conventional knobs,

tin panels with a punched clover leaf design front the cabinets under

the kitchen sink, and antique water glass on the upper cabinets diffuses

the light inside. “Adding furniture-style pieces and touches helps create

the intimacy and scale we wanted to achieve,” said Principe.

The designer also chose to mix it up a bit in terms of the countertops,

further defining the functional areas of the kitchen. Black walnut—

sealed properly for wet location—is used on the perimeter countertops,

near the cooking surface and around the sink, adding a warm counter-

point to the granite used on the islands. “It would have looked like a

granite showroom to have too much of the same material,” said

Principe, “but the visual effect was not the only rationale for incorporat-

ing some wood into the space. Wood helps to soften up some of the sur-

faces, and with kids setting down dishes near the sink, it was a practical

move. Let’s face it, little kids and dishes are not compatible.”

We’ve already established that the design of the space was devel-

oped with a nod to the children—seating at the island, a homework

area—but if you think the wood countertop was the only material

selection made with the kids in mind, think again: There is a magnetic

chalkboard on the refrigerator. “We really tried to think out how the

family was going to use this kitchen,” said Principe. “Typically, for most

refrigerators, the options would be stainless steel or cabinetry paneling.

sourcesDesigner: Lisa Principe, CKS Kitchens & Design, Durham, NC; www.cksdesignstudio.com Interior Designer: Seborn Ragsdale, New York CityManufacturers: Sinks (main and island): Rohl; Bar sink: Kohler; Faucets: Danze; Pot filler: Danze; Refrigerator: Sub-Zero; Range: Wolf; Dishwasher: Bosch; Wall oven: Dacor; Warming drawer: Dacor; Wine storage: Marvel; Tile: Ann Sacks Photography: © Michael Traister

By Christina Trauthwein

Family AffairDesigned with family for family about family

KBB 29+www.kbbonline.com / March 2009

30 KBB July 2004March 2009 / www.kbbonline.com / The Official Sponsor of K/BIS www.kbis.com+

The kitchen boasts two islands at different heights to accommodateboth adults and children and to provide additional prep andcleanup areas (above). Subway tiles with an opaque glaze finishadd dimension to the white-painted cabinets (below), which pro-vide a neutral backdrop for the clients’ changing tastes and styles.Exposed wood beams at aesthetically pleasing intervals addcharm, and suspended light fixtures with a “warehouse” look add anindustrial feel to the oversized kitchen.

But little children are going to have artwork and projects, and magnets

do not stick to stainless.” So rather than create a bulletin-board area, the

designer clad the refrigerator with magnetic chalkboards and inserted

them into the panel grooves in the appliance. “Kitchens often lose an

element of people,” said Principe. “They look like they’re ready for a

catalog or magazine, not life.”

“This kitchen is new but wants to look and feel lived in,” she added.

To help further this goal, the homeowners chose to keep the original

wide-plank pine floor, the visual foundation for the entire space. A New

York artist was hired to handpaint the floors in silver-blue tones similar to

the cabinetry, “but then we did something really fabulous to it,” said

Principe. The homeowner allowed the designers to scuff it up a bit prior

to applying a protective polyurethane topcoat to add a weathered,

antique character. “White can get a bit plain so it really offsets the

space,” Principe noted. “This client was so much fun because she real-

ly just set the parameters for the project and said this is how my family

lives. It’s really nice to design a kitchen for someone you know is going

to use it.” �

products

July 2004 KBB 31+www.kbbonline.com / March 2009

For more projects, go to www.kbbonline.com/projects.

The 800 Series Integra dishwasher from

Bosch is offered in stainless steel, stainless

steel with display or fully integrated models.

Some of the features include: super, deli-

cate, extreme and party wash options;

extra capacity; platinum premium racks;

and a load-sensing system. The dishwasher

is Energy Star-qualified and super quiet at

only 42 decibels. Circle No. 223

Dacor’s Epicure Renaissance wall oven is

available in 36-, 30- and 27-in. widths in a

commercial-inspired stainless-steel finish and

with handles that feature interchangeable

trim caps in color options of chrome, brass,

copper and black chrome. The Millennia

models are available in 30- and 27-in. widths

with a contemporary black or stainless-steel

finish to coordinate with Epicure Collection

appliances. Circle No. 224

This Danze deck-mount pot filler, part of

the Victorian-inspired Opulence Collec-

tion, offers an alternative to wall-mounted

pot fillers that require plumbing behind

the stove wall. The filler features an articu-

lated arm that extends up to 22 in. and

comes in chrome, antique copper, satin

black, oil-rubbed bronze and stainless

steel. Circle No. 225

Wolf’s 48-in. dual-fuel range offers a wide

variety of top configurations and standard

dual-stacked surface burners. The optional

steel griddle, infrared charbroiler and French

top allow you to customize your range. The

electronic oven features a dual convection

system that delivers even temperature and

airflow throughout. Circle No. 226

Sub-Zero’s Model 695 ice/water-dispensing

refrigerator is the company’s largest side-

by-side model, which is much needed for

this growing family. The built-in design at

true cabinet depth allows easy access to

every inch of the interior. Model 695 is avail-

able in framed, overlay and classic stain-

less steel. For this project, it was paneled

with magnetic chalkboard. Circle No. 227

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Runner’s World A Colorado bath with spa appeal

goes the distanceBy Sallie Moffat

CComplete with expansive outdoor kitchen and dining areas, cook’s

and butler’s pantries, multi-room guest quarters and a three-car heat-

ed garage, this new, 6,140-sq.-ft. home occupies an oversized lot in

the elite neighborhood of Hilltop, southeast of downtown Denver. An

older, stately area, the neighborhood has become attractive to

younger families of high net worth.

Home to a world-class runner, her husband and their four children,

the house draws its inspiration from the American Craftsman architec-

tural style—showcasing stone, shingles, ironwork and carriage-style

garage doors—but “its details have been modified to be more reflec-

tive of a Frank Lloyd Wright design with Asian influences throughout,”

said Debra Toney, ASSOC. AIA, founder and president of Denver-based

Debra Toney Architecture & Interiors, who designed the entire home.

Inside, an open and uniquely interconnected floor plan affords ver-

satility and cleverly maximizes square footage, which is also evident

upstairs in the master suite. Comprised of generously proportioned

spaces, it includes the master bedroom, a sitting area, two dressing

rooms and an outdoor deck, all of which surround the master bath,

creating a true retreat cocooned from the rest of the home.

At a sizable 610 sq. ft., the master bath could seem overwhelming

if not for Toney’s smart use of a freestanding wall that houses back-to-

back his and hers matching vanities. Located in the center of the

bath, the “floating partition gives the rather large space a more liv-

able scale,” she explained, and provides not only a centerpiece for

the space, but also a sense of intimacy. As for the vanities, Toney opt-

ed for “open under” units with glass shelving and white Carrara mar-

ble tops. “We often use these within spaces that are large and have

other good options for storage,” she noted.

And this bath is certainly not lacking in storage options. Built-in cus-

tom cabinetry—ideal for linens, towels and toiletries—and adjoining

his and hers walk-in closets eliminate the need for dressers that would

have cluttered the sleekness of the space. The built-in cabinetry

countertop offers an additional surface for amenities, such as a cof-

fee station, a convenience that allows the homeowners to enjoy their

morning coffee while getting ready.

In order to create an interior that would “honor the traditional

exterior style of the home, but also reflect a level of hip-ness that

reflects a younger attitude,” Toney focused on traditional materials,

but incorporated a twist. While she chose subway tile wainscoting,

1-in.-diameter penny floor tiles and marble to keep the design

grounded in tradition, she used mocha brown grout and outfitted the

walls in a matching shade to “create an updated neutral palette

that,” she said, “is unexpected.”

Another unexpected aspect of the design is the adjoining outdoor

deck where the homeowners can relax on chaise lounges and sun

bathe, or just enjoy the sweeping mountain, city and park views. Sliding

glass doors supply the bath with an abundance of natural light, which

also enters through a shower window and partially frosted windows

next to the tub.

Ensuring the essence of a spa-like retreat, the shower is equipped

with steam, a bench and a hand shower, while the tub—with its white

Carrara marble surround and rift-cut white oak front (stained in

espresso to match the custom cabinetry)—is purely a soaking tub.

“This seems to be my clients’ preference these days,” noted Toney,

referencing the desire for clean lines that can be compromised with

exposed jets.

Directly opposite the tub, on the other side of the bathroom, is a

small water closet, where a sleek one-piece toilet exemplifies the sim-

plicity of the space. With its minimal yet glamorous finishes and the

warmth of its mocha walls, this well-planned bath delivers the feeling

of luxury and provides, said Toney, “a seductive yet quiet retreat for

the couple.” �

sourcesDesigner: Debra Toney, ASSOC. AIA—Debra Toney Architecture & Interiors, Denver; www.debratoney.com Manufacturers: Cabinetry: Toney +Stur Kitchen and Bath Studios; Countertops: Statuary Vein Marble; Bathtub: Pearl Baths; Faucets (tub and vanity): Cifial; Sinks: Kohler; Toilet:TOTO USA; Hardware: Colonial Bronze; Lighting (vanity sconce): LBL Lighting Photography: © Emily Minton Redfield

July 2004 KBB 33+www.kbbonline.com / March 2009

34 KBB July 2004+ March 2009 / www.kbbonline.com / The Official Sponsor of K/BIS www.kbis.com

To give the large space a more livable scale,Toney built a freestanding wall to house thecouple’s back-to-back his and hers matchingvanities (left). Honoring the traditional exterior styleof the home, she incorporated familiar materialssuch as marble (on the tub surround, below),subway tile wainscoting and penny floor tiles, butupdated them with mocha-colored grout andoutfitted the walls in a matching shade.

products

Available with 4- and 8-in. centers,

Kohler’s Chord Wading Pool lavatory

measures 185/8 in. long by 1613/16 in.

wide. It is made of vitreous china, fea-

tures an integrated faucet deck that

allows for an array of faucet styles

and comes in numerous colors,

including white, cashmere and sand-

bar. Circle No. 228

LBL Lighting’s Twin Tube Bath Installa-

tion Kit offers both direct and ambient

lighting from three low-voltage twin-

tube heads on a 36-in. monorail. Avail-

able in bronze and satin nickel finishes,

each head has a frosted glass diffuser,

measures 7 in. high by 1 in. in diameter

and takes compact fluorescent lamps.

Circle No. 229

Part of Cifial’s Techno series of faucets

and bath accessories, the 3-Hole

Widespread Lavatory Faucet measures

9 in. tall and has a 6-in. spout reach.

Available in polished chrome, weath-

ered and satin nickel finishes, it comes

with lever or cross handles and has a

flow rate of 2.2 gpm. Circle No. 230

Available with a round or an elongat-

ed bowl, TOTO USA’s Ultimate toilet is

a sleek, high-profile, one-piece toilet

that consumes only 1.6 gpf. Equipped

with a power gravity flushing system, a

SoftClose seat and a 3-in. flush valve

for faster flushes, it comes in colonial

white, bone, cotton and Sedona

beige. Circle No. 231

A soaking tub from Pearl Baths similar

to the one shown was chosen for the

master bath. With clean lines and no

exposed jets, it maintains the sleek aes-

thetic of the space. Available in a vari-

ety of sizes and shapes, the company’s

tubs come with optional features and

in a variety of colors. Circle No. 232

July 2004 KBB 35+www.kbbonline.com / March 2009

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Every now and then, a project comes along that takes on special signifi-

cance for its designer. For Rhonda Chen, of Interior Design Details, that

project was the Rathbun residence in Riverside, CA—a 2,500-sq.-ft., two-

story house owned by a convivial couple with a love of life and enter-

taining. Chen was initially hired to renovate the couple’s kitchen, as well

as other areas of the home, but when the wife was diagnosed with Mul-

tiple Systems Atrophy (MSA), a degenerative neural disorder with no

known cure, the scope of the project evolved to encompass a new

800-sq.-ft. addition on the first floor.

Replacing a master suite originally situated upstairs that had

become too difficult for the wife to access, the addition comprises a

bedroom, bathroom, large doorless closet and work area, and is

designed to not only address the increasing physical challenges

brought on by MSA, such as failing muscular coordination, but also

accommodate the husband’s height. Chen said, “With the husband

standing over 6 ft. tall and the wife ultimately confined to a wheel-

chair, we needed to create an environment that was not static, but

rather organic and expandable.”

WARM AND INVITINGWheelchair accessibility was, of course, a prime consideration in

the master suite and throughout the first floor. In response, Chen

installed double-door entrances, widened circulation areas, gently

graded floors and removed thresholds where possible. In the family

room, which connects the addition to the rest of the home and was

particularly problematic, the floor was raised 6 in. to provide a level

transition to the adjoining spaces and eliminate the need for ramps.

The modification, though no easy feat, is imperceptible. As Chen not-

ed, “Everything looks as if it were meant to be there.”

Because the wife “wanted her environment to be beautiful and

accessible so that she could bring family and friends into her home

to entertain,” the master suite is far from institutional in feel—an aes-

thetic the clients did not want—but warm and inviting. In the master

bathroom, which consists of a large vanity area that connects to

the garage, a shower room generously sized for two and a water

closet, luxe finishes, autumnal colors and arched doorways impart

In California, a new master bath melds accessibility with beauty

Added Charm

Access

Tall, low-mounted mirrors and a floating vanity easily accommodate bothhusband and wife. Her side (above) is also equipped with a sensor faucetfor hands-free operation and a curved grab bar for support. Designed fortwo, the roomy shower (right) features dual sets of shower fittings, as wellas a pull-down shower bench and grab bar for her convenience.

an Old-World elegance. The look is further enhanced by wood

molding and stone and glass wainscoting applied throughout the

different spaces to visually tie them together. “There are a lot of

details that you normally wouldn’t use in a Universal or ADA bath-

room,” said Chen. “The wife liked jewelry, so we tried to include

items that were jewel-toned.”

The vanity area, for example, features twin gold-framed mirrors set

against a backsplash of amber and ruby-colored glass mosaics, while

below, dual undermount sinks, lined with mother-of-pearl mosaics, are

offset by a Mascarello granite countertop veined in rust and dark

brown. The tall, low-mounted mirrors, which conceal medicine cabi-

nets, easily accommodate the couple’s height disparity, as does the

vanity top, which “floats” at roughly 34 in. off the floor to allow for

wheelchair access. At each sink, a faucet, finished in brushed nickel, is

equipped with lever handles for better gripping, and, on the wife’s

side, a second sensor faucet in oil-rubbed bronze offers hands-free

operation, a useful convenience for someone seated. “Initially, the

wife could walk when she started to use her bathroom,” Chen said,

“but then her health deteriorated and she was in a wheelchair.”

DUAL USEChen’s sensitivity to the couple’s needs is also evident in the show-

er room, where two sets of shower fittings enable them to bathe

together in comfort. Both have recessed water tiles and wall bars with

adjustable handshowers, all of

which are situated in relation to

each person’s height, and for the

wife’s comfort and safety, Chen

included a pull-down bench and

horizontal grab bar. The couple’s

bathing preferences are pre-pro-

grammed into a digital control sys-

tem and can be activated with a

simple push of the button. Because

Chen also wanted the shower to be

easy to clean and maintain, the

walls and floor are paved with stone

tiles that have been sealed to pre-

vent water absorption and mold.

“The water just beads up,” she said.

During the day, diffuse sunlight

floods the area via a wall of glass

bricks framed by the same mosaics

that form the vanity backsplash and

articulate the wainscoting.

To unify the master bath, the wainscoting continues into the toilet

room, which is furnished with a large mirror and a shampoo sink for

the wife to have her hair washed, as well as a sensor-operated toilet

complete with self-opening lid and a variety of automatic features.

Adjacent to the toilet, Chen chose a grab bar whose subtle curves

and decorative flair not only offer support, but also enhance the

overall aesthetic of the space and, like many of the bathroom ele-

ments, reflect the wife’s love of ornament and design.

“She really loved beautiful things,” Chen said, and, by extension,

her new master suite. In fact, such was the couple’s appreciation that

the addition has hosted many a gathering, including an Election Day

viewing party. Not surprisingly, the project has also garnered Chen a

AARP/NAHB 2008 Livable Communities Award. �

—Alice Liao

Circle No. 197

July 2004 KBB 37+www.kbbonline.com / March 2009

Rich colors and warm finishes givethe vanity area (left) and the rest ofthe bathroom an elegant feel whilereflecting the wife’s love of jewelryand ornament. Throughout, intricatemolding helps to visually tie thespaces together (below far left) andadds character, diffusing any hint ofan ADA bathroom. In the watercloset (below left), a shampoo sinkand automated toilet are pairedwith a gold-framed mirror and stoneand glass wainscoting.

38 KBB+ March 2009 / www.kbbonline.com / The Official Sponsor of K/BIS www.kbis.com

Maybe you saw it at last year’s K/BIS or maybe you caught

it on HGTV’s show coverage. For those who did, Fulton

Innovation’s wireless blender was a pretty eye-opening

experience, one that might lead someone to ask, “Is it

magic?” Well, uh, no. But then again, the science behind

the demo is about more than just giving friends and family

something to talk about while you whip them up a few

frozen drinks. The company’s eCoupled technology, which

is what’s really making that blender run, has more wide-

reaching applications in the kitchen and beyond.

So what is eCoupled technology? Simply put, it’s intelli-

gent wireless power. According to David Baarman, director

of advanced technologies at Fulton Innovation, the tech-

nology embeds a coil outfitted with a transceiver under a

surface, like a kitchen countertop, to generate a local

magnetic field, which is then converted into electrical pow-

er by a second coil that is built into a blender or any other

small countertop appliance. “The minute the device passes

over the coil, it communicates to the embedded coil,

which in turn identifies it, be it a blender, mixer or chafing

dish, and gives it what it needs in power,” said Baarman.

COOKING SMARTSIf this sounds a bit like induction cooking, there’s a reason for that.

Like induction cooking, eCoupled is grounded in the same science of

near-field inductive coupling, but adds to it a digital communications

component that enables it to do some pretty far-out things.

For example, in addition to powering small electrical devices wire-

lessly, the same coil can actually cook food, transforming the coun-

tertop into a kind of induction cooktop. To do this, the company has

developed a pan with a smart handle that can “talk” to the embed-

ded coil. Three buttons on the handle can be depressed to adjust the

power level, and to protect the countertop surface, Baarman sug-

gests using a magnetic trivet.

But let’s say you want to multitask while you’re making lunch, and

better yet, lunch is some new recipe that you’ve downloaded from the

web onto your laptop. Normally, you’d have to stay close to keep an

eye on the pan or, at the very least, check on the status of your food

from time to time to prevent it from burning, a common occurrence,

said Baarman, when people multitask. With an eCoupled setup, a USB

transceiver could be inserted into your laptop to allow it to communi-

cate with the pan and the cooking surface and adjust power and tem-

perature according to different cooking “profiles,” such as boil or sim-

mer. “So you can go do your laundry, and the laptop will beep you

when the pan is done with a profile,” Baarman said. Or if the recipe

requires the addition of an ingredient, the laptop could alert you either

by cell phone or some other messaging system. Of course, recipes

have to be translated to be properly transmitted, but, as Baarman not-

ed, “We have a tool that allows this to be designed easily.”

ACCOMMODATING FEATUREAnother bonus, eCoupled easily accommodates devices that use

different voltages, so “if you have a rice cooker or a special Italian

espresso maker, this manages both,” said Baarman. “You don’t have

to worry about cords, cables or plugs.” Naturally, all devices do have

to be designed for the technology, and the company is working with

several manufacturers on this front, developing products not only for

the kitchen, but also other areas of the home, as well as the office. At

this year’s Consumer Electronics Show, in addition to its kitchen

demonstration, the company showed a cell phone charger, a home

entertainment vignette complete with a surface for charging remotes

and other electrical devices, as well as power tool applications.

Although specific product launches are slated for the end of 2009,

the initial roll-out unfortunately will not include those intended for resi-

dential use, but instead will be limited to automotive items such as an

in-car console with a flashlight. In the meantime, check out the eCou-

pled website at www.ecoupled.com for a series of videos demon-

strating the technology in action. �

—Alice Liao

Tech

Just Like MagiceCoupled takes wireless to a whole new level

eCoupled will enable blenders(left) and other small appliancesto operate wirelessly, keepingcountertops free of clutter. Atpresent, Fulton Innovation’sproduct roll-out will includeautomotive products such as anin-car console (above).

Large-format tiles create a look that is unparalleled by that of their small-

er counterparts. Allowing grout lines to be reduced by 50 to 90 percent,

they produce an overall appearance that can seem virtually seamless

in comparison to solid surfaces. Interior designers and homeowners alike

have recognized this and are increasingly asking for them, but technolo-

gy has not solved all of our problems.

While the aesthetic appeal of large-format tiles cannot be denied,

their installation can pose a challenge, as conventional requirements

do not apply. Structural elements, substrate, adhesives and grout all

have to be rethought.

SUBFLOOR AND SUBSTRATE PREPARATIONA thorough inspection of existing structural elements is a must

before installation can occur. Concrete slabs should be free from con-

taminants, cracks and defects in levelness. Deflection is not a concern

with slab on grade installations, but for upper levels and suspended

floors, it may be necessary to use a crack isolation or uncoupling mem-

brane. A membrane is also necessary to repair any fractures that may

be present.

For installations over wooden floors, inspect the joists, beams and

piers to ensure they are adequate. If these members cannot support

the floor properly, there may be need to shim and sister the joist and

add piers. Although a 11/2-in. mud base is the best solution to reduce

deflection, this is often not cost-effective nor desirable because of the

raised profile it creates. As an alternative, 1/2-in. to 3/4-in. plywood,

glued and screwed every 6 to 12 in., can reduce deflection to an

acceptable tolerance. Once the structural qualities of the subfloor

have been inspected or improved, it is time to consider the substrate.

Tiles smaller than 12 in. can be more easily installed over substrates

with minor deficiencies, whereas larger tiles require additional care to

reduce lipage, cracking and dislodging. The accepted 1/4-in. variation

for 10 ft. in a floor or wall must be improved to 1/16 in. or less for larger

tiles to guarantee a complete bond and a level finished surface.

As a result, the use of a self-leveling underlayment will almost always

be necessary for preparing the substrate for installation. Combined with

the appropriate primer, self-leveling underlayments adhere well to the

subfloor, making a sound connection between substrate and tile.

Cement backer boards create a monolithic substrate that help pro-

tect the tile from the expansion and contraction of a wood subfloor.

But keep in mind these products do not improve the structural quali-

ties of the subfloor.

ADHESIVESOnce the substrate has been properly prepared, the next issue at

hand is setting the tiles. Organic mastics work well with smaller tiles

under certain conditions, but with larger tiles they should never be used

as an adhesive because of the increased surface area and the non-

porous properties of today’s porcelain tiles. Also, mastic can stain natu-

ral stone, regardless of size, so it should never be used for this material.

That being said, there is much controversy over what type of mortar

should indeed be used for setting larger tile.

While large tiles require additional mortar to ensure proper adhesion

and thus prevent cracking or dislodgement, thinset, which has a maxi-

mum usable thickness of 1/4 in., weakens the thicker it is applied. Greater

thickness also increases the possibility of introducing air under the tiles,

thereby reducing its strength even more. Something else to keep in mind

is that a thinner layer of mortar will not allow much room for compensa-

tion when you’re trying to keep lipage to a minimum.

Thinset mortars, though, have proven to work well when additional

care is taken. Be certain to back-butter the tiles and consistently check

for adequate surface contact. In situations where the substrate is less

than perfect and more difficult to improve, a medium-bed mortar may

be a more suitable choice. Medium-bed mortars have been modified

with larger aggregate and other components so they can be used in

thicknesses of up to 3/4 in., which eliminates the need for back-buttering

and allows for a substantial amount of freedom. Therefore, imperfec-

tions in the substrate can be corrected as the tile is being set. It is recom-

mended that you use a specialized round notch trowel, which increases

surface contact, ensures proper coverage and secures an adequate

bond to the substrate.

Education

Laying the GroundworkWhat to do when installing large-format tile

44 KBB Jully2004+ March 2009 / www.kbbonline.com / The Official Sponsor of K/BIS www.kbis.com

While the aesthetic appeal of large-format tiles cannot bedenied, their installation can pose a challenge.

SETTING AND GROUTING Placing larger tiles takes extra care as their weight alone can easily

displace the mortar. It is also good practice to apply the mortar to the

substrate in a consistent linear pattern, as opposed to the circular ran-

dom pattern often used for smaller tiles, and make sure the tiles are set in

the mortar by moving them 1/4 in. across the ridges. Disregarding these

guidelines may create undesirable voids in the mortar that, if occurring at

the edges or corners, can cause rocking and dislodgement or cracking.

When adhering large-format tiles to walls, once again you will want

to ensure that the work surface is level. In most situations, a standard 1/2-

in. cement backer board will suffice as deflection is not a concern. Most

importantly, be sure to use spacers that will not be compressed by the

weight of the tiles (otherwise grout lines may become distorted and

uneven) and brace and support the tiles while the adhesive is curing.

The final part of any tile installation is grouting. Inconsistency in the

grout color has long been the grout industry’s biggest obstacle to over-

come. As suppliers have broadened their color offerings to match the

growing number of tile choices, they have also created higher expecta-

tions from the customer.

Traditional grouts, which are Portland cement-based, are prone to

creating efflorescents as they cure. This is more likely to occur with large-

format tiles, which have an extended setting time due to moisture

becoming trapped under the large surface areas. The efflorescents can

be removed using a mild etching solution and a grout brush, but this is a

timely process that will minimize the effect but not rectify the problem.

Instead, opt for a grout that has been modified to set without creating

efflourescents. Regardless of the type of grout you use, it is essential that

you wait a minimum of 48 hours before grouting and perhaps even

longer if conditions warrant.

Large-format tiles offer an alternative in design and a look that is

high in demand. Working with any new product can result in situations

that are less than desirable, and repairing a problem is never time- or

cost-effective. So prepare your substrate with care. Doing so will pay

you back several times over. �

—Damien Guermont is owner of Soleil Home Improvements, which

serves southern New Jersey and Philadelphia, and has 12 years of expe-

rience remodeling homes.

It starts with an idea. Then it becomes your

design. From that point, Art For Everyday believes that nothing

should hinder the realization of your vision. Our limitless array

of products and combinations, crafted from premium North

American hardwood, will complete your design palette. And if

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Circle No. 195

Trade shows are great for finding new products and making profitable

contacts. But there’s a downside: With the rising cost of travel, going to a

show can get mighty expensive. Plane fares, car rentals, hotel bills and

meals all add up to big money.

What to do? You can reduce a trade show’s impact on your bottom

line by deducting all appropriate travel costs as business expenses on

your income taxes. Take care, though: You must take only those tax

deductions allowed by law. “The IRS is always looking for excessive or

unsubstantiated deductions when it comes to travel expenses,” said Tom

Ochsenschlager, VP of taxation at The American Institute of Certified

Public Accountants (AICPA) in Washington, DC. “It’s the low-hanging fruit

for auditors.” Disallowed deductions, of course, can be expensive in

terms of penalties and interest.

QUALIFIED DEDUCTIONS• Show criteria. Before you can deduct any expenses related to

attending a trade show, you must first determine if the event qualifies for

tax deductibility. What are the criteria? Consider the topic of the show

and your purpose in attending. “If a trade show serves a legitimate busi-

ness purpose, then the related travel expenses are tax deductible,” said

Patrick Anderson, principal of Anderson Economic Group in Lansing, MI.

Once you’re sure that your trade show is business-related, you can

deduct a variety of expenses from airline fares to hotels and meals.

• Meal expenses. When you’re traveling, meals can generate

expensive restaurant bills, but special rules apply to these expenses. “You

can deduct meals when you are traveling overnight away from home or

if the meal is business related,” explained Andrew Benedict, tax manager

at RGA Advisors in New York City. However, only 50 percent of the meal

cost is deductible, as the other half represents an expense you would

have even if you were not on a business trip.

• Evidence. Also, keep in mind that a meal deduction is only allow-

able when substantiated by adequate records or sufficient evidence,

said Benedict. Information that should be kept includes: dollar amount,

time and place, business purpose and per diem rates.

Itemizing expenses while traveling can be a chore. You can save your-

self some effort by opting for standardized deductions, also called “per

diems.” These are available in two categories: lodging and meals and

incidental expenses (M&IE). “If you are taking a lot of employees to the

show, using the per diem expense can simplify your record keeping,”

said Abe Schneier, technical manager at AICPA. “It also helps you con-

trol expenses since you can ask your employees to try to limit their budg-

ets to the per diem rate.”

Per diem rates are revised periodically and are delineated in IRS Publi-

cation 1542, “Per Diem Rates (for Travel Within the Continental United

States).” For the latest edition, visit the website for the Internal Revenue

Service at www.irs.gov and enter “Publication 1542” in the search box.

CAREFUL RECORDSKnowing which travel expenses are deductible is a great help at

income tax time, but your job’s not done when you stuff a handful of

hotel and car rental receipts into a storage envelope. You must also

properly document your expenses. “The IRS typically requires contempo-

raneous records for expenses related to travel, meals and entertain-

ment,” noted Benedict. “For each day’s business expense, you need to

record the business purpose, the time and the place in some kind of log.

Such notations should be made at or close to the time you actually

incurred the expense.”

Too often documentation is inadequate or misplaced, added Bene-

dict. In such cases, the business owner is faced with a credibility problem.

“The biggest mistake that business owners make is not keeping an ade-

quate record the same week the expenses were incurred and then try-

ing to reconstruct the events a year later.” Once you have made your

records, store them in a safe place where you can access them easily if

the IRS ever questions your travel expenses.

When given careful consideration, the bottom-line impact of

attending trade shows can be mitigated by taking all of your allowable

tax deductions. Additional guidance is available from the IRS in “Publi-

cation 463: Travel, Entertainment, Gift and Car Expenses.” To get your

copy online, go to www.irs.gov/formspubs and enter “463” in the

search box. �

—Phillip M. Perry is based in New York and has published widely in the

fields of business management and law.

A Taxing BusinessGoing to a show? Take these deductions

Practice

Reduce a trade show’s impact on your bottom line bydeducting all appropriate travel costs as business expenses.

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K+BB (ISSN 0730-2487) is published monthly by Nielsen Business Media, Inc. 770 Broadway, New York, NY 10003; (646) 654-5000. Editorial offices: 770 Broadway, New York, N.Y., 10003, (646) 654-4400. Volume 56, No. 3. U.S. Subscriptions $79.00 one year, to individuals or firms engaged in retailing, wholesaling, or manufacturing of kitchen cabinets, bath vanities, built-in kitchens and baths. All other U.S. subscriptions $83.00 per year. Qualified Canadian and Mexican subscriptions $94.00 per year. All other foreignsubscriptions $139.00 per year. Single copies $10.00 per issue, prepayment required. Member Business Publications Audit of Circulation, Inc.SUBSCRIPTION INFORMATION, ADDRESS CHANGES AND SINGLE ISSUE REQUESTS: Write to K+BB, P.O. Box 1124. Skokie, IL 60076-8124. CANADA POSTPUBLICATION AGREEMENT NO: 40031729, RETURN UNDELIVERABLE CANADIAN ADDRESSES TO: Deutsche Post Global Mail, 4960-2 Walker Road, Windsor,ON N9A 6J3 CUSTOMER SERVICE INQUIRIES: Call (847) 647-7987 or Fax (732) 380-2418. Periodicals postage paid at New York, N.Y., and additionalmailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to K+BB, P.O. Box 1124, Skokie, IL 60076-8124. © Copyright 2009 Nielsen Business Media, Inc.

Amba Towel Warmers ..............................................47............................322Art For Everyday ........................................................45............................195Best of K/BIS ................................................................49 ..........................N/ACoverings ....................................................................25..............................65Dimension One Spas ..................................................6............................173Doors and Drawers....................................................47............................323Eldorado Stone ........................................................4-5............................149Evoba ..........................................................................24..............................29Green & Design..........................................................48 ..........................N/AHandcrafted Metal ..................................................2-3............................132Jeffrey Court ..............................................................C4............................119JSI Cabinetry ................................................................9............................167K/BIS 2009 ....................................................................39 ..........................N/AK+BB Designers Network ..........................................48 ..........................N/AK+BB Market Forecaster............................................17 ..........................N/ALiebherr Appliances ..................................................11............................155National Kitchen & Bath Association......................15..............................51Outwater Plastics Industries, Inc. ............................47............................321Silestone by Cosentino..............................................13 ................................8Victoria & Albert........................................................C3............................163White River Hardwoods-Woodworks, Inc...............23..............................45

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Ad Index

Editorial Index

ALNO 14Ann Sacks 29Attivissimo 22Azuvi 23Bentwood Kitchens 50Bosch 29, 31Bruce Hardwood Floors 23Cambria 8Cifial 33, 35Colonial Bronze 33Craft-Art 50Dacor 29, 31Danze 14, 29, 31Derek Marshall Lighting 22Diamond Cabinets 24Dornbracht 23Eleek 8essenze 21Evo 14Fisher & Paykel 19Foscarini 21Fulton Innovation 38Gaggenau 8GE 19Gerber 25Hettich 25JACLO 8JSI 24

Julien Home Refinements 22KitchenAid 19Kohler 29, 33, 35, 50LBL Lighting 20, 33, 35LG 19Liebherr 25Marvel 29Miele 18, 19Neff Kitchens 50Pearl Baths 33, 35Pedal Valves 50Perlick 22Rohl 29Sharp 50Snaidero USA 8Statuary Vein Marble 33Studio Italia Design 21Sub-Zero 29, 31Taps & More 8Thomas Lighting 21Toney + Stur Kitchen and Bath Studios 33TOTO USA 33, 35WAC Lighting 8Walker Zanger 7, 24Whirlpool 8, 18Wolf 29, 31

Publisher is not liable for errors or omissions.

Company Page Company Page

A 28-year veteran of the kitchen and bath industry, award-winning designer Mark

White, CKD, of Kitchen Encounters in Annapolis, MD, is probably better than most at

spotting innovative products. Although he tries to ascertain his clients’ preferences by

presenting them with a wide range of styles and options, White also insists on showing

them products that hopefully they’ve never seen anywhere else. His approach has

been a successful one, given the longevity of his firm and its many accolades, and his

versatility and wealth of experience have sharpened his eye for what’s new and truly

ingenious. Some products, not surprisingly, have become favorites.

Take Sharp’s Microwave Drawer (1), which provides a handy solution to a prob-

lem White frequently encounters in his practice. “Because so many of the kitchens we do today are open

plans, we’ve lost a lot of the wall space necessary to install eye-level appliances, such as a microwave,” said

White. Unlike countertop models that can inadvertently become focal points (or eye sores) in a kitchen, “the

drawer can be installed into an island or somewhere where it’s out of sight,” he explained, and its design is

“much more convenient to use than a regular microwave placed under a counter.”

As a second sink, Kohler’s Undertone trough-style basin (5) adds functionality without taking up too

much space. Available in several lengths, the sink measures a slim 7 in. wide and, when situated along the

back edge of a countertop, leaves ample room in front for prep work. “It’s extremely useful in areas where

you might not have an abundance of counter space, but you want to put in a second sink near the cook-

ing station to have that convenience,” White said. “It can also be placed in the middle of an island so it’s

accessible from both sides.”

Pedal Valves’ foot pedals (6) make White’s list for being both hygienic and water-efficient. Easy to

“hook up and not terribly expensive,” said White, the pedals allow hands-free operation of the kitchen

faucet when hands are dirty and limit water usage to only what’s needed. White added, “They’re the type

of thing people are familiar with in doctors’ offices, but they’re also really convenient in a kitchen.”

Equally functional, as well as attractive, are Craft-Art wood countertops (3), which White often incorpo-

rates into his kitchen designs as transitional surfaces, breakfast bars and eating and prep areas. The tops

come in “a wonderful variety” of woods, thicknesses and edge treatments, and, according to White, “can

really be practical and beautiful if used correctly.”

And speaking of beauty, all fetching kitchens require a set of, well, fetching cabinetry. For that, White

likes Neff Kitchens, which offers “beautiful wood veneer inlays on its cabinet doors” (2) to expand one’s

design horizons, as well as Bentwood Kitchens’ Pacific Rim line (4), which will soon be featured in his show-

room. The latter, White noted, perfectly synthesizes the “key characteristics” of that region and reflects the

growing interest in a modern, Asian-inspired aesthetic. “It’s an exciting and really innovative product,” he

added. And he should know. �

—Alice Liao

Favorites

50 KBB+ March 2009 / www.kbbonline.com / The Official Sponsor of K/BIS www.kbis.com

1

5

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Mark White’s Top Product Picks

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volcanic limestone baths

Luxury classic & contemporary designs made from 100% ENGLISHCAST™

The Victoria & Albert collection combines exceptional comfortwith award winning aesthetics. Packed with naturally occurringvolcanic limestone, every bathtub is as strong as cast iron butnaturally white, featuring a renewable, scratch resistant surface.

Victoria & Albert: the natural choice that is more than a purchase – it’s an investment for life.

Victoria & Albert Bath LLC, 1952 Long Grove DriveSuite 4, Mount Pleasant, SC 29494, USA.

Phone: 800 421 7189 | email:sales@englishtubs.com

www.vandabaths.com

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Change life. One room at a time.

BEFORE

AFTER

Designer Showroom & Corporate Office: 620 Parkridge Avenue, Norco, California 92860 ◆ 951 340-3383 ◆ Visit jeffreycourt.com/designer2 for the dealer in your area.

Visit jeffreycourt.com/designer2 to see the complete Chapter 8 Facets Collection.

Add a little sparkle to home surroundings with the

brilliant, jewel-toned accents found in Jeffrey

Court’s new Chapter 8 Facets Collection.

Using subtle colors and distinctive mosaic

shapes and sizes, these ceramic decorative tiles and

glass accents bring inspiration to your individual

designs and glamour to home decor. For elegant

and unique styling, choose Jeffrey Court.

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