LET'S CONNECT

I have always said that we, as designers, need to be cautious about incorporating technology into design.   Technology can so rapidly become out-dated that a once cool, cutting-edge design can quickly become a design faux pas.   We should take particular caution when incorporating such design into our kitchens, which is arguably the room most of us consider the hub of our home.   In addition to the danger of becoming quickly out-dated, many technologies available today aren’t even a necessity, but rather a luxury add-on.   We are seeing more and more gadgets and technologies in the world of kitchen design that move into the realm of being a bit over-the-top and unnecessary.   On the flip side, there are sure to be some technologies that would stand the test of time and would prove to add function to our homes.     Enter one such technology: DuPont™ Corian® Charging Surfaces.   This technology allows for the wireless charging of sma...

Think of your ideal place to relax. Now tell me: what does this place sound like? Chances are it doesn't sound anything remotely close to a rock concert. Why then, does the world around us insist on creating spaces that can often be classified as acoustical nightmares? From the home to commercial spaces, we have become numb to the effect that these "noisy" design aesthetics have on our lives. Over the past few years, I have become increasingly passionate about uncovering the effects of acoustics in design. Think about how open concept has changed the home. Think about how hard, loud surfaces heighten the sound in a restaurant. I believe that "loud" design elements have a direct correlation with increased stress and irritability - however minor it may be. Factor in an aging population with increased hearing sensitivity, and you have an increasingly important design dilemma. I truly believe that consumers are making their choice at which restaurant to dine bas...

If you’ve been to one of my Evenings of Inspiration (EOI), you know that it’s my passion to seek out the latest and greatest mega-trends in kitchen design.   I’m always looking for the next big design idea. I recently found an interesting article that hit the nail on the head in terms of designs that I’ve highlighted in my EOI presentations ( click here to view the full article).   Do you agree that these trends will show up more and more in the kitchens of the future? Technology-Centered Kitchen Concept: Placing a heavy focus on staying connected with the use of technology.   My thoughts: Incorporating technology into design can be a risky move.   Technology moves at a rapid pace and quickly becomes out-dated. Movement Concept: Using movement in design to maximize the function of a space. My thoughts: This will be the biggest trend in the kitchen of the future.   Forms Follows Function. Visually-Minimized Design Concept: “Hiding” a v...