Kitchen technology is changing the way we approach design for the contemporary family and homeowner. Smart kitchens are lifestyle sensitive with appliances designed around the homeowners everyday living. To qualify for my list, the best appliances are user friendly and easy to understand, have energy saving features with the option to personalize, incorporate design trends that cater to current lifestyles and posses ageless design.

The U.S. Houzz Kitchen Trends Study for 2017 states that kitchen renovations result in homeowners cooking and entertaining more at home, making healthier food and lifestyle choices. With nearly one in 10 homeowners spending more than $100k on a completed kitchen renovation appliances play a major role in the overall budget.

Stainless steel continues to be the most popular appliance finish although most high-end appliances are offered in slate, gray or black finishes. Dacor offers a color-match technology that lets you pick your exact range color.

As for appliance upgrade trends the dishwasher is the first choice for replacement followed by the refrigerator/freezer, microwave, range and range hood. For this article we will focus on dishwashers and refrigerators.

Dishwashers

LG Dishwasher (LDF5545ST) earned the Best Affordable Dishwasher Ever Tested in the under $700 bracket. Its 9.4 score placed it better than 91% of dishwashers tested, better than 100% of dishwashers under $700 and better than 90% of the installed dishwashers, according to Reviewed.com.

Thermador Emerald Dishwasher (DWHD440MFM) delivers on such a quiet performance it beams a blue light on the floor during it running cycle. A worthy investment in quality, top-notch cleaning and style. MSRP $1299

Miele Dimension Series Dishwasher (G6365SCVISF) customizes its approach to cleaning by offering a built-in Intensive Mode that allows a heavy wash on the bottom level and a gentle top wash at the same time, Sensor Dry and 3D Cutlery tray. MSRP $1899 after rebates

Refrigerators

Before we look at traditional refrigerator units I would strongly suggest that you consider incorporating undercounter refrigerator drawers in your kitchen design to enhance the function of your floorplan. They can be conveniently placed to fit the lifestyle of activities that take place in your kitchen. Learn more about under-counter refrigeration here.

German engineered Bosch 800 Series 33″ French Door with bottom freezer (B22FT80SNS) refrigerator boast a clean design with hidden hinges, spill proof glass shelves, large storage capacity and precise temperature management. MSRP $1999

GE Cafe Series Energy Star French Door refrigerator (CFE28TSHSS) is equipped with a hot water dispenser, touch screen controls and exceptional energy effieciency. MSRP $3099

Last but certainly not least, the Dacor Discovery 42” Side-by-Side offers high-end performance and high luxury whose energy star qualified features offer power cool, power freeze amenities, automatic door closure, LED lighting, WiFi connectivity on top of a sleek design that complements modern kitchen design. These units also come equipped with FlushFit technology for a seamless built-in appearance. Definitely worth the investment! MSRP $7779

Remember, an informed decision is a wise decision when it comes to purchasing your next kitchen appliance!

Rich in style, modern in application and technology describes HGTV’s Smart Home 2017 located in Scottsdale, Arizona designed by Tiffany Brooks. Loaded with smart home features it also captures the comfort and simplicity of the surrounding nature displayed in Southwestern vintage decor.

Smart locks greet you at the front door while the home boasts a wireless security system loaded with sensors and internal cameras. Smart window shades, appliances and energy-efficient windows are just a few of the features that abound from room to room.

Smart light switches and outlets, water sensors that trigger an alarm at the hint of contact and an innovative steam clothing care system are just a few of the time, money and energy-saving lifestyle features that I love about this smart home.

The master bedroom and bath beckons you into a relaxation haven with its digital tub filler that allows you to set your water temperature, a walk-in digital shower that allows the homeowner to control the shower settings from outside the shower. The water closet hosts a compact, streamlined one-piece toilet that features integrated cleansing, motion-activated, hands-free opening/closing of seat and cover.

The open kitchen displays a stylish mix of drama with function with its striking subway tile back splash specified in copper anchored with modern black flat cabinets with soft-close black drawers. The graphic black/white tile floor on a diagonal was inspired by a Southwestern tribal pattern in honor of the local heritage.

White maple shaker style cabinets anchor the sophisticated laundry room housed with top-notch front loading programmable, high-efficiency graphite steel front loading ultra large appliances. One of six water sensors in this space triggers an alarm whenever it comes into contact with water.

A floor to ceiling natural gas fireplace with safety screen and remote control for accent lights and temperature adjustments commands the focal point of the Great Room. The 65″ high-definition TV with voice activated remote and  time zone streaming media app built right in adds to the comfortable elegance of this home.

Large energy-efficient windows brighten the garage that boasts a smart bike storage pulley system app that raises and keeps them off the floor. A charging station for your hybrid electric vehicle and tankless water heaters provide energy savings and environmental benefits. The smart garage door not only features s space-saving design but the door can be opened or closed from anywhere using an app with real-time alerts if the door is opened or closed.

A backyard retreat perfectly rounds out the HGTV Smart Home 2017 with a sparkling pool and covered patio equipped with misters for offsetting those heat-filled Arizona days. Perfect for entertaining into the night with well-appointed lights that illuminate the backyard, a forever home for a fortunate family!

To view the full gallery of photos please visit HGTV Smart Home 2017.

Designer: Tiffany Brooks

Serene, elegant and natural light-filled with a backdrop of pleasing color hues describes the seemingly perfect vacation and weekend John’s Island, Florida home designed by Carole Weaks of C. Weaks Interiors.

The property commands respect from the break-taking views alone, a comfortable elegance supported by luxurious textiles, furnishings and flooring relax the soul upon entrance.

Diversity of textiles and color work well in this Sitting Room, each playing their part as if participating in a grand symphony. The mark of excellent design.

Exquisite blend of neutrals with a pop of color from wall art transforms this space into a casually elegant dining space.

Design details bring life and personality to this second home.

To view the entire gallery of inspired rooms please visit Atlanta Homes Magazine.

Color, custom walls, ceiling and floor treatments, unique furnishings and luxury textiles are just a few highlights of inspired design that showcase the Designer Showhouse of New Jersey sponsored by Traditional Home.

A linen upholstered bookcase makes us believe in the never-ending creative possibilities and range of design options for decorating your home to suit your personality. This living room, designed by Philip La Bossiere is anchored by color, wall covering, beautiful fabrics, antique Chippendale chairs and retro wing chair.

One of my favorite spaces stopped me in my tracks. The stunning dining room, designed by Jennifer McGee not only brings an undertone of drama to dining and entertaining but also provides options for lingering on the custom corner sofa after a great meal.

The four wood-framed mirrors (see featured image) showcase the large landscape painting. The green velvet upholstery invite another layer of luxurious living with grass-cloth wallcovering sealing the experience.

This for-girls-only bedroom by Artistry Interiors, LLC appeals to the softer side of femininity with peaceful color hues balanced with practical details such as a full-length mirror, skirted upholstered chairs and ottoman. A dream-like vanity topped with beautiful items complete this perfectly designed space.

Tall windows and open space allow the Conservatory, designed by Michael Mariotti, the option of multi-purpose design for conversation, relaxation or game playing. The venetian plaster walls and colorful art invite fun.

These are just a few of my favorites from the Designer Showhouse of New Jersey. Please stop by the full gallery of photos from the show for more inspiration and sourcing details at Traditional Home.

Images: John Bessler

The latest in countertop technology presented by Geoluxe for Geoluxe Natural Stone captured so much  attention at the leading Kitchen and Bath Industry Show 2017 (KBIS) that it not only won Best In Show but also Best of Kitchen-Gold.

Best In Show | Best of Kitchen-Gold | Geoluxe presented Pyrolithic Stone, a breakthrough material with “the noble beauty of natural marble and superior technical performance,” according to Geoluxe. Its debut at KBIS 2017 pronounced its perfect combination of elegance and performance that promised to overcome the imperfections of natural marble and other manufactured surfaces. The 15 year warranty for residential use supports their claim of this realistic marble-like countertop Geoluxe stone.

Best of Kitchen-Silver | The Galley Dresser award-winning, hand-made collection of fine kitchen furniture designed by Doug Durbin. Known for his harmonious blend of art, function and architecture, the Galley Dresser is available in four sizes, 13 hand selected high-gloss finishes. The Dressers are completely hand crafted and custom designed to reflect your style and meet your kitchen design needs. A highly functional and luxurious addition to your kitchen space.

Best of Bath-Gold | TOTO for NEOREST AC Dual Flush Toilet with Actilight won this category with its intelligent NEOREST AC wall-hung toilet. It features auto open/close lid, auto flush, integrated Washlet personal cleansing system and in-bowl catalytic deodorizer. TOTO’s Aclight Cleansing technology with Pre-mist and eWater is activated by the UV light in its lid. High-efficiency Tornado dual-flush system consumes 1.28 gpf for the full flush and 0.9 for the light flush. An additional feature, it’s in-wall tank system saves up to 9″ of space.

Best of Bath-Silver | The Copper Shower Kit offers a multi-piece pure copper shower head with trim parts and panels as well as anti-corrosive and anti-microbial properties.

One of my favorite Best entries includes Thermador’s 60″ Pro Grand Range from BSH Appliances. This luxury range features six (6) patented Star Burners with convection, steam and warming drawer options as well as 12″ professional grill or griddle as well as the option of a 24″ dual-zone griddle.

To take a look at all the Best in Show entries please visit KBIS, you’ll be inspired and informed for your next kitchen and bath renovation project!

When it comes to choosing the best natural stone for your interior residential project three fundamental attributes must be considered that will affect the functional enjoyment of the stone; durability, sustainability and beauty.

Durability “The look and durability of materials are the top reasons for selecting certain countertops and flooring,” according to the latest Houzz Kitchen Trends Study. Homeowners are making choices that will sustain heavy use, provide great functional opportunity while looking great for many years to come.

Natural stone is known for its durable qualities, inherent strength and abrasion resistance. A leading choice for countertops, floors and other heavily used surfaces it’s popularity keeps it a leading choice according to The Natural Stone Institute.

“The best of natural stone is the stone itself.”

Granite, the hardest and most durable of the stone types has become a standard option in new home construction and remodeling projects driven by technology and ease of fabrication. Marble, an elegant and increasingly popular stone is chosen more by consumers who desire not only the look but also the durability according to Houzz. Years ago marble was a popular choice for entryways, hearths and bathrooms. Today we are seeing marble in the kitchen as well.

Sustainability For the environmentally conscious homeowner natural stone is a sustainable , 100% recyclable material. It does not emit off-gas or harmful VOCs (volatile organic compounds) into your home, requires little or no maintenance as well as lasting durability. Natural stone ages well and is available regionally which more than qualifies it as a sustainable material.

Beauty Granite, Marble, Sandstone, Quartzite, Slate, Soapstone, Limestone (to name a few), each possess a beauty of its own. The beauty and uniqueness of natural stone reflects the homeowners personal style as no two slabs are alike.

The look, rhythmic motion in the veining, tone, coloring and design combine in expressing the style and tempo of each slab. Beauty is about satisfying our senses as we make an emotional connection with the stone we choose. Personalizing our home is a strong decorating trend that is at the core of great interior design.

The benefits of natural stone extend well beyond the attributes of durability, sustainability and beauty. Upon installation, it supports the core activity of a functional home with ease.

The best of natural stone is the stone itself.

Thanks in part to MIA+BSI: The Natural Stone Institute for supporting this post.

Green is a fresh and life giving color that goes far beyond the color of your walls; it inspires our approach to interior design on many levels and applications for design elements that can set decor apart from the ordinary.

Green in Nature

Since Pantone’s 2017 Color of the Year Greenery was announced as “a refreshing and revitalizing shade…symbolic of new beginnings,” Greenery has enjoyed a continuous promotion on numerous social and media platforms and deservedly so. One of my favorite colors, it certainly stands up to its acclaim to “…revive, restore and renew.”

Green in Wallpaper

From kitchen cabinets to furniture and flooring, the color hue green still remains a favorite when design inspiration includes this color as we will prove in the following illustrations. In just the right proportion and placement these spaces force you to linger for a while as the beauty of the color and application of design results in a stand-out designer favorite.

Green in Furniture

Green in Wallcovering

Green in Accessories

Green in Flooring

Green in Textiles

Green is beautiful!

Personalizing the walls of your home with wallpaper is one of the most exciting decorating trends happening right now and according to market trends powerhouse QY Research Reports, the handmade wallpaper market is a growing trend. High in style and steeped in detail this trend reminds me of craftsmen of old who took the time to create one-of-a-kind masterpieces.

What I’m loving right now are the intricate floral patterns that bring a casual elegance to the room it graces. These handmade designs complement both traditional and transitional styled interior designed spaces.

No longer placed in the predictable dining room, foyer or powder room, wallpaper is being applied as statement makers, focal points, art and murals, some with extensive scenes that wrap an entire room.

Inspiring designer fabrics are also driving interior design. Schumacher, in collaboration with the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation has brought back many of Frank Lloyd Wright’s original patterns from his Applied Architecture line first created in 1955. These geometric patterns reflect the architects vision and complement a wide range of decorating styles.

Other fabric loves include Schumacher’s Chinois Fret, a “fresh, modern palette in a timeless fretwork motif” and Bricolette, designed with the “look of needlepoint.” These inspiring collections have a wide application to all decor.

This small example of new offerings are just a glimpse of wallcoverings and fabrics being introduced into the marketplace. May this article jump-start your search for the perfect wallpaper and fabrics for your next project!

For more wallpaper inspiration please visit Inspiring Rooms with wallpaper.

Did you know that Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas now leads the new residential construction in the U.S. according to Builder magazines annual ranking of the top 50 new-home markets by closings? Actually the South, Southwest dominates the list of top 50 including Atlanta, my hometown.

Other than strong population growth driving residential construction in the Southwest markets what can buyers expect to find in new homes as it relates to improving energy conservation applied in a way that is suitable for today’s lifestyles? Making use of natural light.

New home buyers can expect to find the influence and application of certified green building design in residential construction. A global effort with an agenda supporting sustainable development, the percentage of global builders with at least 60 percent of their projects certified green will double, according to the World Green Building Trends report.

Passive Building Design, listed as one of five global green building trends for 2017, helps to minimize energy consumption by reducing the need for electrical lighting and temperature control. By allowing maximum amounts of natural daylight to come in, while restricting heat loss in the winter and reducing heat gain in the summer points to choosing energy-efficient windows that meet or exceed Energy Star® certification.

Windows have the capability of making a dramatic and architectural statement in the home. One of my favorite design elements, a great looking window refreshes the soul, brings the outdoor in with an open view of nature and natural light while enhancing the architectural tone of a home. Gone are the days of small windows.

Energy Star windows will save you money by using less energy, eliminating cold drafts and overheated spaces according to Pella Windows. These Low-E insulated windows also protect your furnishings, window treatments and flooring from fading in the sun by blocking harmful UV rays.

Whether you are considering building a new home or updating an existing one, adding more natural light is among the top five global green building trends and is easily applied through your choice of energy-efficient windows!

It has been proven that there is a connection between experiencing daily life in an updated kitchen and healthy lifestyles. “From eating more fruits and vegetables to preparing more meals at home,” according to a kitchen trends study by Houzz, we tend to desire to spend more time at home in a great kitchen. And now we have an appliance ‘must have’ that will help us get there, the new speed cook oven.

Speed cook ovens are making a splash these days in kitchen appliance innovations. I started taking a closer look at these ovens earlier this year when I participated in a continuing education class that was hosted in a high-end kitchen appliance showroom.

These speed cook ovens are actually a convection oven, microwave, or a combination of the two. “The “speed” term refers to this appliance’s ability to use microwaves in select convection oven modes that expedite the cooking process without compromising the quality of food,” according to Yale Home Appliance.

The offerings and options are plentiful, from high-end to moderately priced appliances, it is worth your while to incorporate this appliance into your next kitchen update. A few of my favorites are featured below, manufactured by Viking, Bosch and GE Appliances.

The Viking Pro TurboChef speed oven is known as the “world’s fastest oven” that cooks 15 times faster than conventional cooking methods. With seven speed cook modes and ten traditional cooking modes housed in a 30″ Turbochef speed cooking technology, this oven is found in many commercial kitchens. A worthwhile investment for a high-end luxury new kitchen or update to an existing one.

Bosch Benchmark Series 30″ speed convection oven is equipped with auto-chef cooking cycles that take the guesswork out of speed convection cooking. The ten power level oven also provides a 1,750 Watt broil element.

GE Monogram oven with Advantium® Speedcook technology boasts four ovens in one; speedcook, convection, microwave and warming capabilities. Delivering oven-quality results up to eight times faster than conventional cooking methods with no preheating makes this 30″ speed convection wall oven a great choice.

Your next kitchen appliance upgrade should include a speed oven, it will not disappoint!

Regardless of your budget allocated towards your next master bath remodel it seems everyone desires a touch of “luxury” in this personal space. Two in five renovating homeowners spend $10K-$25K on master bathroom renovations according to Houzz. This survey goes on to find that four in five renovating homeowners replace major bathroom features including flooring (91 percent), countertops (89 percent), sinks (88 percent) and showers (87 percent).

The Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles 2017 Bath of the Year contest winners bring fresh inspiration to these latest trends for master baths and do not disappoint in showcasing luxury bath retreats loaded with delightful design elements that personalize each bath to suit its owners.

Hardwood floors, larger showers with steam capabilities, soaking tubs, marble countertops, craftsman elegance, a floor to ceiling glass wall, custom vanities and satin nickel finish hardware are just a few design elements that make all the contest entries winners in my opinion. S. Scott West of West Architecture Studio said it beautifully; “Integration of glass, stone, marble and wood creates a multidimensional yet serene space.” The winning bath designs represent the direction of modern bath retreats magnificently, as you will see.

Transitional and Contemporary styled bathrooms have overtaken Traditional in design preferences according to NKBA. Although one contest winner had to honor the 1937 home during a major master bath renovation the traditional elements embraced a transitional tone.

Adding personal style in the master bath was also a winner.

For more master bathroom design inspiration and to view the entire gallery of images as well as product sourcing please visit Contest Winners at Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles.

The Sherwin-Williams Colormix Forecast 2018 takes a turn from last year’s bold color forecast with a fresh, lighthearted palette embracing “a collision of influences” that offers a chance of creating community within our contemporary lifestyles according to Sherwin-Williams.

Sincerity, Affinity and Connectivity are the key words that reflect the Colormix Forecast 2018.  A prediction towards lifestyles  moving towards de-cluttering, the uncertainty of terrestrial boundaries and a desire to discover our own sense of community are the drivers behind these color palettes.

Sincerity | Less is more as we’re de-cluttering, moving more possessions into the cloud. (SW) Influencers: Silence, Instagram, Minimalism, Hygge, Norcore.

Affinity | Nationalism and globalism are in flux, challenging terrestrial boundaries. (SW) Influencers: Roaming, Transculturalism, Community, Arts and Crafts, Indigenous Patterns.

Connectivity | We’re each moving to the beat of our own algorithm. (SW) Influencers: Pop/Youth Culture, Techies, Virtual Reality, Productivity, Environmentalism.

A breath of fresh air, silence; de-cluttering yet pursuing community; inspired by technology, productivity as environmentalism takes center stage all resonate with me in this color forecast.

I love all the whites in each group but the Sincerity color palette speaks to me the loudest. What is your favorite and most likely color group for your home?

To view the full Colormix 2018 Forecast gallery please visit Sherwin-Williams.

This inspiring design project deserves a shout out. A historical treasure in the Atlanta area (Buckhead), it was nearly destroyed by fire, razed to its foundation in 2014 according to its owner, Gerry Hull.

Originally designed by architect Neel Reid, the restoration was placed into the hands of D. Stanley Dixon Architect firm who would handle this restoration and transformation with “humble respect for Reid’s ‘classical, restrained and elegant’ precedence originally intended.”

The restored home reflects the scale and proportion that Reid is known for while the architectural details draw you in with awe.

From ashes to beauty, this is a historical restoration project that was handled in the dignity it deserved.

Please visit D. Stanley Dixon Architect firm to view more inspirational projects or Resurrecting Neel Reid at Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles to view the full gallery of images.

Strong kitchen design trends are popping up in popular designer showcases, competitions and new home builder models.

For starters, kitchens are commanding greater square footage as the central hub and multi-functional space in the home. As a result, it makes sense that connecting spaces are open to the kitchen for ease of traffic flow.

Exceptional kitchen design was exhibited recently at the second annual Kitchen and Bath Design Awards competition. What excited the judges most was “design innovation and the application of aesthetic appeal, functionality of the space, attention to detail, originality, selection of colors and finishes” to name a few, according to Janice Anne Costa of Kitchen & Bath Design News.

As a result, cleaner lines, bold and fresh color in material execution and appliances with one winner featuring an orange LaCornue range. Another judge loved the mixed use of metals, bold use of color and wallpaper, attention to ceilings and unique storage applications.

“Black and white are the trendiest colors now for kitchen design, they are timeless,” according to Brian Patrick Flynn, interior designer for HGTV’s Urban Oasis home giveaway. KBDA judge Diane Foreman also was “particularly taken by…the glamour and sophistication of black in the winning kitchen designs.”

Check out the full gallery of winners at Spectacular Spaces: 2nd Annual KBDA!

Page stopping, jaw dropping inspired interior design describes my first reaction to this years Southeastern Designer Showhouse in Atlanta, Georgia. The remarkable collaboration of architect Yong Pak, builder Michael Ladisic and a very talented interior design team produced stunning results in this historic renovation and “spectacular display of forward-thinking, traditional-minded design,” according to Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles magazine.

This magnificent home was built in the 1960’s for the Haverty family (or should I say estate) that sits on a private lot on the bluffs of Nancy Creek. One of the many transitional spaces showcases a spacious and breezy indoor-outdoor veranda and vestibule (see below), while a guest suite provides exclusive privacy and spa-like escape.

The upstairs transitional style lounge captures the essence of forward movement while graciously honoring the traditional bones of the house. The neutral space comes alive with contrasting black and green hues that invite you to linger in this luxury space.

Here are more of my favorites.

There is so much more to view from the master bath and custom his and her closets, a dining room designed with a modern day interpretation to a gorgeous outdoor garden retreat.

Enjoy the inspiration at the 2017 Southeastern Designer Showcase gallery!

Photography | Mali Azima, David Christensen, Emily Followill

While enjoying a great Labor Day meal my thoughts went out to you all who frequently visit my blog in wonder of how you were spending your day honoring those you love who work so hard providing for you as well as your hard work being honored. I envisioned your family and friends gathered in wonderful outdoor living rooms from casual to formal, all beautiful in their own way and style.

This post gives tribute to working people everywhere. May you know how valued and appreciated you are and may your hard work produce a great and lasting harvest in the relationships that make your homes so enjoyable!

To view more please visit Southeastern Designer Showhouse 2017!

Photography: Mali Azima, David Christensen, Emily Followill

San Francisco designer Jon de la Cruz is the creative and talented eye behind the luxurious future oriented Kitchen of the Year 2017 in partnership with Thermador and House Beautiful. This 10th Annual Showcase takes on a modern application to traditional kitchen design as the stainless steel Hillside 10-inch depth farmhouse style sink by DXV and the striking black and white floor tiles by Haussman Natural Stone remind us of hardworking kitchens from the past.

Thermador, a high-end luxury kitchen appliance line (and one of my favorites) featured its 60-inch Pro Grand range which includes six burners, a steam/convection oven, an electric griddle and a grill! Also, I love the versatility of the Thermador Freedom fridge and freezer; each boast a 36-inch stand-alone unit. Personalizing the placement of your kitchen appliances is shown in the placement of these two units with the fridge placed near the island and the freezer placed near the mudroom. The impressive Thermador Star-Sapphire dishwasher runs a full cycle in 20 minutes.

The weathered white oak island and kitchen cabinetry by JWH Design & Cabinetry with Architects Millshop boasts two finishes with the addition of Farrow & Balls Cornforth White paint in Modern Eggshell. Other custom cabinet features include an appliance garage that houses the toaster and coffeemaker. And for heavy appliances a special spring-loaded shelf pops up from the base cabinet when needed. Caesarstone countertops in honed Raw Concrete with a rough-hewn edge rounds out these glamorous custom cabinets.

The sleek and compact 24-inch wide Thermador Freedom wine chiller holds 80 bottles in two temperature zones adds a professional design element to this chef’s kitchen alongside an open-shelf pantry with Grothouse’s extra-tall black walnut shelving.

Thibaut’s Treiuso marble wallpaper and the distressed bronze on the Altamont pendant lighting by Hudson Valley Lighting brings glamour and calm to this modern kitchen.

A built-in water purifier housed in the Blue Pure kitchen faucet by Grohe and a Smart Home system by Leviton’s Wireless Decora rounds out the numerous conveniences that make this kitchen a home to enjoy.

Take a look at the full Kitchen of the Year 2017 photo gallery and the San Francisco Designer, Jon de la Cruz for more inspiration!

“Strong, radiant and full of energy” perfectly describe Benjamin Moore’s 2018 Color of the Year, Caliente (AF-290) whose powerful and bold statement reminds me of This is Us, the popular new TV show that befriends standing apart in a bold and confident way.

Crowned “the signature color of a modern architectural masterpiece” by Ellen O’Neill of Benjamin Moore & Company, Caliente is surprisingly refreshing with a nod of approval when placed properly within the balance of good design and great proportion of scale. It arrests the heart while naturally immersing you into taking on life in a bold way.

From this regal entry to the kitchen Caliente finds a way to make a statement, to define and clarify every living space in the home. It is the voice and action of personality as these images illustrate.

Perfect on accent walls.

Benjamin Moore Caliente in furnishings.

What is your favorite application for Caliente in your home? Let us know!

To view the full color of the year 2018 pallet overview, please visit Benjamin Moore.

Home is not just a place for shelter, it is a place that befriends loving relationships that protect those we love and in the context of this post, a place of safety for our young children and pets.

If you have little ones running around the house or pets that need to be kept from certain areas of the home then I would love to introduce you to HIDEAGATE who offers a solution to your decorating and safety dilemma inside the home. There interior gate options are well designed to complement the beauty of any decor style when in use and can easily disappear into the wall cavity when not in use.

HIDEAGATE is a modern and high-quality adaptation of the traditional hard to manage, sometimes bulky portable residential interior gates on the market today.  In new construction and remodeling projects, HIDEAGATE is “a built-in retractable gate that is constructed into the wall cavity,” according to its manufacturer. Made with 14-gauge steel tubing, it can be installed alone or in conjunction with a pocket door or a swinging door.

Adaptable to fit your opening, it is available in 32″, 36″, and 48″ openings which for most homes are standard door frames and installs on a 2’x4′ or 2’x6′ wall. You don’t have to worry about your child or pet knocking this gate down or its grip loosening between the walls or doorway. They even offer an instructional video on their website for installation.

Style matters and HIDEAGATE kept design in mind with its sleek, stylish look that blends in well with any decorating color scheme. But most of all I love that this state-of-the-art offering was birthed out of a practical “homeowner need” when a custom home builder and his wife in Texas desired to keep their two children and large dog safe, happy and protected in their home with the capability of tucking the gate away when not in use.

HIDEAGATE is not only made with 14-gauge steel tubing but is also powder coated, able to withstand daily wear and tear, gnawing and chewing. A wise investment for every home that is now available for builders, architects and homeowners.

To learn more about product specifications and installation, please visit HIDEAGATE.

Thanks in part to HIDEAGATE for supporting this post.

Thankfulness is a feeling of gratitude, an expression of thanks and the Thanksgiving season causes us to pause from busy schedules to reflect on the people and circumstances that have made our lives fruitful.

The first Thanksgiving was celebrated in 1621 when the Pilgrims celebrated a good harvest. Today, the meaning of harvest is reflected differently. What once meant a time of the year when a crop was gathered or reaped as the consequence of great toil and effort we give thanks for our harvest in family, friends, achievement and health.

When I prepare to set my Thanksgiving table I can’t help but reflect on the family traditions set forth by my mother (who has difficulty setting her table now). She insisted on cultivating gratefulness in our home growing up and every holiday dinner her labor of love produced a feast to be remembered.

I’m thankful for her example and her servants heart toward all kinds of people, not just those in the family. Most of all, I’m thankful for her unconditional love and the harvest that it has produced in my life.