Bathroom Ideas "Outside the Box"

Lately, I've spent a lot of time on bathroom design. It's been really fun! Looking through idea books, getting great inspirational images from my client, and shopping through catalogs has truly opened my mind to the versatile possibilities for the bathroom. There really is a solution to everything, sometimes you just have to think a little "outside the box!" Here are some great ideas I've found along the way...

Window-Mounted MirrorsRyan Associates General Contractors via Houzz

If you have a window in a seemingly inconvenient location, say, right where you want to mount a mirror, no problem! Just suspend the mirror in front of your window. It will just glow! Natural light is best for applying make-up anyway. With this solution, your face will be bathed in the sun. Here another installation :

Beall + Thomas Photography, Blackberry Farms design team

Bathroom Island

Better Homes and Gardens Bath Design Guide 2008

Islands are no longer just for the kitchen or closet. If you're running out of wall space and have enough room in your bathroom to float an island in the middle then go for it.

This Old House, Photo by Alan Shortall

You can anchor pretty much anything to your bathroom island. It can house your sink, bathtub, storage... whatever your imagination allows.

Faucet Location

Lori Carroll and Associates, William Lesch Photography

If you are working with a tight space, perhaps in a powder room, have you ever thought to mount your faucet to the side of your sink? This can save you the extra counter depth needed to otherwise fit the fixture behind the sink. I think it also suggests an edgy appeal. Here it is again:

Better Homes and Gardens Bath Design Guide 2008

A Twist on the Tub/Shower Combo

Design by Terry McGinnity for the Strings Hotel in Tokyo, Photo via Duravit

Here's an idea I'm applying to my current bathroom project. Having a sort of tub/shower "zone" in my situation was the best use of space but it really seems practical for other applications where you want a nice, large soaking tub with a separate, luxurious shower. It's nice to rinse of before or after a bath, why not have the shower right there? I think this solution is stunning and clever. Here's another take on that idea but still leaves the tub open to the rest of the bathroom:

Rhodes Architecture via Houzz

Below, another example of this tub/shower zone application. This is most similar to how I'll be applying the idea.

Feldman Architecture via Houzz

I am always looking for new ideas! How have you thought "outside the box" lately?

www.thekitchenandbathpeople.com

A Custom Kitchen : Sinks

We all want options. Demand (and, in some cases, need) along with designer innovation have led to some great options for the kitchen's "wet zone." With numerous options for sink depth, finish, style, and organization tools along with an endless variety of specialized and well designed faucets, the kitchen sink can be just as personalized as you!
The Cascade sink by Elkay has an integral drainboard and surrounding lip providing a perfect ledge for any accessories you choose, including a cutting board, wire rack, and colander. The drain board can act as a space to push these accessories out of the way when you need access to the whole sink. Embossing within the sink allows you to insert the wire rack at different levels, bringing dishes up to you and minimizing your need to bend over the sink.
Franke uses a similar lip design to support your sink accessories... but they take it a step further with an integrated knife rack and utensil wells!I love the open, industrial feel to this sink (it's really just the way the sink is installed). A great display for nice pots and makes everything easy to find... it reminds me of a chef-style kitchen. This is also by Franke.
For practicality's sake, here we have a shallow sink. This particular sink is from Moen. For anyone with back problems, this will certainly help alleviate any pains brought on from bending over to wash dishes. Like the wire rack in the Elkay Cascade sink, this bring the dishes up to you, minimizing bending. This is also ADA friendly. For anyone bound to a wheel chair, this sink's depth leaves plenty of knee space below (assuming you don't have cabinets in the way) and makes it easier to reach your dishes in the sink.
Kohler's Karbon faucet has style and function. With all its joints, you can position it to spray water exactly where you want and it will hold that position. It's like a little interactive sculpture for your kitchen, with a purpose! Being a brass and carbon fiber (the stuff road bike frames are made of, making them ultra light-weight) blend, the faucet can be manipulated with weightless fluidity.
Jado's Saffron faucet has the look you would expect to see in any chef's kitchen. This faucet brings professional kitchen design into the home. The high arching hose design provides maximum durability and flexibility and makes it easier to wash those large stock pots.Brizo's Pascal faucet is absolutely fabulous! This guy allows both hand-free and touch-control functionality which conserves water and makes clean up so much more efficient. Water can flow in both a spray or a stream. Just watch this video (link found on the upper-left side of the page) showing the Pascal in action. Quite the culinary experience. Touch free makes life so much easier when dealing with raw meat!!

Have you ever wondered how a custom sink might make your life easier? If you live in North Carolina's triangle area and are interested in customizing your kitchen, please contact us for more information at www.thekitchenandbathpeople.com!

A Custom Kitchen : Cabinet Storage

A combination of technology, creativity and demand has led to the evolution of some exceptionally innovative products for your kitchen. I want to write a short series on where these developments have taken us, starting with kitchen cabinet storage. Like most things, while aesthetic appeal is nice, it really is the inside that counts; and I think that regarding kitchen storage, organization and accessibility are the key elements that make cabinetry truly functional and pleasing. Companies like Rev-A-Shelf and Hafele carry some clever accessories to organize, tuck away, and keep everything in it's place.

These wonderful spice trays, by Rev-A-Shelf, effortlessly stack your seasonings, keeping them fully visible and accessible. Because the material is trim-able, this tray can be fitted precisely to any drawer.

A bread drawer kit (this one also by Rev-A-Shelf) will help keep bread tasting fresh.

If you need to make the most of your vertical space, check out these two-tier trays (another Rev-A-Shelf item). You might store utensils used less often in the bottom, while the top tier glides on wheels, allowing all items stored to remain at least partially visible and easy to get out. This is also trim-able for an exact fit.

This simple peg system (Rev-A-Shelf) allows items stacked high within drawers to stay in place, avoiding sliding and breaking.

Aren't those deep, dark corners of your lower cabinets the worst? The lazy susan is a common remedy for that problem, but I just love Hafele's LeMan's system. It's pivot and shape pulls everything out allowing full accessibility.

I will almost always recommend drawers over doors for your base cabinets. But in some cases, like under a sink, doors might make more sense. This doesn't mean you have to sacrifice storage. With this handy pull out by Hafele, cleaning products stay organized, visible and within reach.

These pantry pull-outs, by Hafele, are so practical. Just think of all the snacks that go to waste because they were shoved to the back of the pantry only to be recovered after expiration. Or how about that same hot-sauce you've bought 3 times because you thought you were out :). This system will not let food or storage go to waste.

This is only the tip of the ice-berg for kitchen organization, and there are similar products for bathroom, laundry, and garage management. Just imagine the possibilities! If you are interested in remodeling a room in your home, check us out at thekitchenandbathpeople.com for more information.

Tax Credits Encourage Green Remodeling as part of The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act

Did you know that "spending $10,000 to retrofit a 1960's home with energy efficient features could save 8.5 tons of carbon... by comparison, increasing the energy efficiency of a new home 35% over current state requirements would cost $5,000 and would only reduce emissions by 1.1 tons."* In conclusion, "retrofitting existing homes with energy efficient features is 4-8 times more carbon and cost efficient."* I guess this is due to the waste and pollution caused by new construction as well as the further diminishing of our ever shrinking, precious green spaces.

Well, there is good news for you home owners out there who want to reduce your carbon footprint as well as save dollars on your water and energy bills. If you've been watching or listening the the news lately you've probably heard a lot of talk about the United Nations Climate Change Conference currently under way in Copenhagen. Then adding to that, there's still constant chatter on the economy. To both combat climate change and stimulate the economy, through The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, our states have been given money (our tax dollars) to provide tax incentives for purchasing and installing certain Energy Star appliances. This is being detailed and carried out by each individual state. You can find more information about these rebates by clicking here. North Carolina will begin phasing the rebate initiative in April of next year! If you happen to be in New York City over the holidays you can view Fagor's green kitchen installation at the Wired pop-up store through December 27. So far, the types of appliances that will qualify (that are of a particular interest to me) include Energy Star clothes washers, dishwashers, and refrigerators/freezers (there are of course others).This is Electrolux's front loading washing machine. Not only does it have the Energy Star label for its energy and water efficiency, my favorite feature is its 18 minute wash cycle!! AND it partner drier.... 18 minutes too! "Ready before you are."

All Miele dishwashers qualify for the Energy Star Program. The G 2002 Series uses only 5.1 gallons of water in the normal cycle, and a measly 1.2 gallons in the economy cycle. Above, take a look inside.

GE has a whole slew of Energy Star refrigerators. Above I've pictured there Profile model.

With the new year approaching, now is a good time to begin thinking about ways to decrease your carbon footprint. If you decided to do a complete kitchen or bathroom renovation, here are a few more green products (that do not qualify for the tax rebate) to give you "feel-goods" and maybe even lower some bills...

This is TOTO's Eco Promenade toilet and one of MANY water efficient models out there. The EPA has partnered with WaterSense to develop third party testing for water-efficient products. Toilets with the WaterSense-label use 32% less water and perform as well or better than non-labeled products. These save the average household 11 gallons of water per day!

Faucets can also earn the WaterSense label. This RSVP faucet by Brizo has earned the label due to it's laminar flow.

This beautiful surface is from the ECO line by Cosentino (makers of Silestone). These products incorporate recycled bottles, mirror, cystal ash and ceramic; they are non-porous products that will never need to be sealed; and installing it can contribute to 5 LEED points.

Not only can bamboo add beauty and visual interest, it is a highly renewable (aka. green) resource. Bamboo can be used for countertops, floors, accents, accessories, and much more!

If you are interested in a kitchen or bathroom remodel or addition, please visit our website at thekitchenandbathpeople.com


*Nations Building News Online; Expanded Energy Tax Credit to Boost Demand for Renovation Jobs; February 16, 2009

Not Your Grandma's Clawfoot Tub...

Lately we've been receiving several phone calls for bathroom remodels. Why the sudden appetite for bathroom renovations? Beats me. But we sure are happy to see some potential business!

In light of bathrooms renovations, I thought it might be fun to showcase some beautiful freestanding tubs. Bathtubs have developed from the claw foot into an array of styles, providing something for everyone. Not only are free standing tubs a beautiful focal point in the bathroom, if you actually use the tub, a good soak in a hot bath is beneficial to your health. A hot bath will increase your heart rate - improving circulation, relax muscles, lower blood pressure, and can counteract stress and help you sleep at night. Hydrotherapy incorporates both hot and cold water baths, depending on what aches, to soothe various ailments whether it be a sprained ankle, poor circulation, a cold, hemorrhoids, arthritis, insomina... the list goes on. Water is natures healer.

In this metro-chic, modern meets tradition bathroom the soaking tub was placed smack in the middle of the space. Talk about the center of attention! I love the striking, black and white, mosaic tile backdrop housing the "spa-bar". This is where an otherwise divided "his and her" bathroom comes together... so dramatically romantic!

This image reminds me of the Spinning Teacups ride at Disney World, maybe it's just those little girls... but I love it. The travertine material just glows... so natural and so relaxing.

Japanese were the originators of the healing bath soak; and it is still an integral part of their culture. The shedding of ones clothes symbolically casts-off the cares of the day. They then scrub and cleanse themselves before sinking into the hot bath. To them, the bath is purely for relaxation and their well-being.

Now to the traditional western bath we're all used to. The exaggerated ball in claw foot on this tub is so theatrical!

This clean-lined, contemporary tub is a piece from WS Bath Collections. The headrests are a veneered marine ply wood and the outside can be covered with either a wood or -get this- leather finish! An interesting thought providing a clean, tailored look (the details are quite beautiful) but I'm really curious to know how those materials stand up to the constant humidity. Well, it comes with a quality guarantee certificate so why not go for it? :)

Ah, this modern meets tradition tub is probably my favorite of the pieces I'm showing. The metallic finish & simple, classic shape of this bathtub will fit seamlessly with a variety of bathroom themes. So elegant.

A bath; what a wonderful way to reconnect with nature. 'Tis the Season for indulgences, take time out of your busy schedule to heal your body and soul.

If you are interested in a kitchen or bathroom remodel or addition, please visit our website at thekitchenandbathpeople.com

Photo Credits : Photo 1 - Featured in Traditional Home Magazine, Bathroom Design by Robert Young, Photography by Greg Scheidemann, Tub by Kallista; Photo 2 - Tub by Stone Forest; Photo 3 - Tub by WS Bath Collections; Photo 4 - Tub by Victoria and Albert; Photo 5 - Tub by WS Bath Collections; Photo 6 - Featured in Elle Decor, Design by Jeffery Weisman and Andrew Fisher, Photography by Grey Crawford, Tub by Waterworks; Photo 7 - Featured in Elle Decor, Bathroom Design by George Yabu and Glenn Pushelberg, Tub by Agape

Universal Design Ideas to Invest in Your Home

A few posts ago I wrote about various simple ways to incorporate Universal Design in your home; creating a space to allow "Aging in Place" without making your home look like a hospital room. Since then, our office has decided to hold a booth at the North Carolina Assistive Technology Expo on December 3 this year. To prepare for the show, I have put together a presentation with many more ideas to universalize your home. Universal Design is not just for the aging... it helps young & old, short & tall, handicapped and healthy. Browse through, you may be surprised by what you never thought could make life just a little easier!

-To view, click in the image below. Click on the arrows at the end of each page to flip through.-



If you are interested in a kitchen or bathroom remodel or addition, please visit our website at thekitchenandbathpeople.com

Countertops : Cold, Hard Facts

Granite

Being extremely durable, scratch & stain resistant, requiring very little maintenance, and, not to mention, attractive, granite has become a favorite surface for kitchens and baths. There are a multitude of colors & textures and the depth & movement is unmatched with copy-cats. A word of warning, if you decide to install granite in your home, be sure to personally (or have your designer) select the slab of stone to be used. Every slab is different; even of the same variety. You may even go so far as to select the portion of the slab to be used, as the color and movement will change throughout the piece.

Granite should be re-sealed every 3-5 years in a residential application in order to prevent staining. To clean, granite should be wiped free of dust regularly and periodically washed with a soft cloth, fresh water, and a mild detergent.

Marble

There are definitely mixed opinions concerning marble counters in the kitchen. It is beautiful, no doubt... but, if you really use your kitchen, it will never look the same as the day it was installed. Marble is soft and it stains and because of this, many don't recommend marble for kitchen counters. However, I like the positive spin Paul Anater, on his blog, gave concerning marble when asked his opinion, "If you like the idea of your life making a mark on things, marble is for you." It certainly carries nostalgic traits; plus, it is beautiful and timeless (think ancient Rome). But if you want a kitchen to feel "like new" as long as possible it might be a good idea to use marble for only a portion, if any, of your kitchen's surfaces; like for a pastry center. Mixing counter surfaces can add visual interest and define different zones. As far as for bathroom countertops, people across the board seem to feel that marble is an appropriate material for that application.

Maintenance is a delicate issue with marble. Blot-out (try not to wipe-up) spills as soon as they happen to avoid etching in the stone, as anything with an acidic content will begin to break down the stone. Use coasters on marble, beverage glasses will leave a ring so treat your marble like you would a wood surface. Use cleaning products specific for marble both on the counter and on any vertical surface behind the marble (like mirror or tile) to prevent any drips of a harmful cleaning product from landing on your marble surface and staining or damaging the sealer or the stone.

Quartz Surface

Quartz (in regards to countertops) is an engineered stone combining rock (typically quartz) and resins. Now, there are options that integrate recycled content. Cosentino's product ECO is made of 75% post-consumer or post-industrial materials such as glass, mirror, porcelain, and stone scrape. The choices and looks for quartz surfaces are ever growing and evolving to keep up with current trends including concrete looks, stone looks, and styles with flecks of glass or mirror for sparkle. Ina Garten used Caesarstone, one of the many manufacturers of quartz counters, in her barn kitchen (pictured above) for its impervious quality and markings like real stone. Compared to granite, quartz has a much more consistent look but still maintains depth.

Price wise, quartz costs about the same as granite. Manufactures of the product claim it's superiority over granite for it's increased stain, scratch, and mildew resistance. Maintenance is also reduced compared to stone; engineered stone will never need to be sealed and will stand up to harsher cleaning agents. Below is pictured a few of the many looks available with a quartz surface:

Solid Surface

Solid Surface is a completely man-made countertop product. There are many pros to this product including it's nearly seamless appearance and it's flexibility in creating three dimensional shapes. It can be molded into integral sinks, drainboards and back splashes, creating seamless, easy to clean counters with no gaps where bacteria can grow; making solid surface a popular product for health-care, in particular. It is a non-porous material so it is naturally stain resistant with no need for a sealant. Cleaning only requires soap, or an ammonia based cleaner, and water. Be sure the surface is wiped dry to avoid a filmy build-up. Another plus, because it is a "through body" material, scratches can be buffed out and old countertops can be refinished to look good as new. Solid surface is considered a "green" product due to it's durability, repair-ability, and recycled content.
The color possibilities are nearly as endless as quartz surface colors. Solid surface will not give you that same visual depth, however, and you won't find anything with glassy, reflective flecks. It has a softer, more marble like texture to the touch. There are variety of styles including looks to mimic granite or solid styles for a more modern look. Lighter colors are recommended for high-use areas because scratches will show up white.

If you are interested in a kitchen or bathroom remodel or addition, please visit our website at thekitchenandbathpeople.com

Photo Credits : Photo 1 - The Kitchen and Bath People showroom; Photo 3 - courtesy of Cosentino; Photo 4 - design by Susan Serra Associates, Inc.; Photo 5 - design by Robert Stilin, photo by Julian Wass for House Beautiful Kitchen of the Year; Photo 6 - a. caesarstone, b. cambria, c. caesarstone, d. caesarstone, e. cosentino, f. ceasarstone; Photo 7 & 8 - LG HI-MACS