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By: Chef Mark Kalix T exture is a word often used in relation to food. Many people are turned off by certain textures and avoid such foods at all costs. Everything from calamari to peanut butter has detractors. One of the new trends in design is texture. More than just clever wallpaper or dramatic lighting, texture is a detail that designers are adding to homes to set them apart from the rest. As the Chef who works exclusively in the homes of Appliance Factory FineLines customers, I get to see the best of the best. All of these homes are wonderful, but when a homeowner goes the extra mile it shows.  My informal polling says that the last two percent of any home improvement project seems to be the most expensive and time-consuming to get the details just right. This is where texture comes into play. Living edges, distressed corners, floating shelves and heirlooming are a few tools from The Designer's Cookbook that can spice things up in any room of the house.    Chefs play with texture to elevate food.  Have you ever noticed that all fine dining restaurants include a "crunch" in almost every dish? Crème brûlée  has a toasted crust of caramelized sugar over soft custard, for example. What tools can a designer use to add "crunch", let's find out. In the spring edition of this magazine, we asked five designers how to add texture without a significant renovation. My favorite response — "paint the backsplash! Matte paint on top of the natural stone gives just the right pop of subtle texture.”     Let's celebrate texture by exploring a dish I created just for this issue! The crunch of the slaw with both fruit and vegetables, crispy salmon skin, soft grits and my favorite garnish of toasted breadcrumbs all come together to create a composed entree that is a delicious feast for the eyes and full of texture.

We hear it all the time that a luxury kitchen is an investment, but how much value do they actually add to a home? We sat down with Melissa Thomsen of Colorado Home Realty to find out what today’s buyers look for in a high-end kitchen. Q: What kind of difference does a luxury kitchen make when selling a home? A: After the curb appeal, the kitchen is the first thing people notice about a home. It’s a big draw! The kitchen is the heart of any home because it's where we spend most of our time. When people host an event or party in their home, everyone usually ends up in the kitchen! Most buyers like it when things are turnkey. If they have to put another $100,000-200,000 into renovating a kitchen on top of their investment in buying the house, it’s generally not appealing. People get excited when they see a luxury kitchen. They fall in love with high-end appliances and finishes, which helps them envision their life in that home and means I don’t have to do a lot of convincing! Q: When showing a home, what kind of luxury appliances get people the most excited? A: Big professional ranges and built-in refrigerators certainly have a WOW factor, then the ‘extras’ like built-in coffee systems, full-length wine coolers, pizza ovens, and warming drawers all scream luxury! People buying higher-end homes generally like to entertain, and these items all help them to be better hosts by giving their guests a better experience. Then there is the piece around how you feel when you get home and walk into your kitchen, a luxury kitchen gives an immense sense of pride and makes spending time in that room feel extra special. Q: At what price point would you say luxury appliances become an expectation? A: It’s an interesting market right now because our home prices are not typical. The average house price in the Denver metro is currently around $700,000. I had a number in my head that I went back and forth with, but I’d say anything at a million or more in this market. If you are at that price point, you have to be pretty buttoned up—for example, nicer appliances and stone countertops. Basic or builder grade is not acceptable. People should consider investing a little more money into higher-end appliances and finishes when remodeling their kitchen, especially if they are considering selling in the future. This is an investment, not an expense, because it generally yields good returns on home value and leads to a quicker sale. Q: What kind of value can a kitchen remodel add to a home? A: There are some excellent resources out there to help homeowners understand the value added to the home vs. the cost to complete the work. These numbers vary by market, but kitchen remodeling typically yields the best return on investment, with the home’s value increasing by 60-80% of the project’s cost in the Denver marketplace. In comparison, a master bathroom remodel typically returns 60-65%. Q: So, do people buy houses because of the kitchen? A: Absolutely! It’s not always going to be the only reason, but if the kitchen doesn’t meet their needs, one thing is for sure—the house is certainly off the list! *Source of cost vs. value information was Zonda “These numbers vary by market, but kitchen remodeling typically yields the best return on investment, with the home’s value increasing by 60-80% of the project’s cost in the Denver marketplace.”

Mixing design styles is a prevalent trend in today's kitchen remodels. When done right, it can create a unique space that reflects your personality and increases the resale value of your home. While mixing design styles can create a beautiful space, balancing colors, textures, and proportions to create a cohesive look can be challenging. Here are some tips to help you mix styles like a pro! Consider existing elements: Cabinets, countertops, and appliances are all existing elements you may wish to incorporate into your kitchen update. Be sure to consider how these will interact with new elements so they do not interfere with your desired aesthetic. Start with complimentary styles: Design styles that can be easily combined are modern and rustic, traditional and contemporary, or industrial and farmhouse. Look for styles that have shared elements to build around. Choose a dominant style: Designating one of the styles as primary will help to create a cohesive look and keep styles from clashing. For example, suppose you are mixing modern and traditional styles. In that case, you might choose modern cabinets with traditional countertops and hardware. Incorporate transitional elements: A transitional style light fixture or a transitional style rug can help bridge the gap between different design styles. Transitional elements typically mix traditional and modern design elements and can help create a cohesive look. Consider the function: When planning a kitchen remodel, it's essential to consider the function of the space in addition to the design. Think about the details. Small details can make a significant impact on a kitchen remodel. Incorporating design elements such as lighting, hardware, and accessories can help tie together different design styles. Plan your budget: Mixing design styles can be expensive, especially if high-end materials or custom work is involved. Consider creating a mixed-design kitchen on a budget by repurposing existing materials or shopping for discounted materials. Consult a professional: Hire a professional: If you're struggling to overcome conflicting design elements, consider hiring a professional interior designer. A designer can help you create a cohesive design that incorporates all the details you want while avoiding conflicting styles and offering tips for creating a beautiful and functional space.

In the ever-evolving realm of kitchen design, certain styles seamlessly merge classic and contemporary aesthetics. Delve into the elements currently captivating homeowners, boosting real estate value and adapting to the fluidity of the market. By Jennifer Lowry VERSATILE SURFACES: Quartz countertops, known for their durability and low-maintenance qualities, offer a range of colors and patterns suitable for both contemporary and timeless appeal. Striking updates are easily achieved with materials like granite or quartz, eliminating the need for a full remodel. CABINET CLASSICS: Shaker-style cabinets, simple and versatile, painted in enduring colors, ensure lasting charm. TIMELESS TILES: White subway tiles, a perennial favorite, are available in various sizes, and when paired with unique colored grout options, provide a trendy yet ageless look. STAINLESS ELEGANCE: Stainless steel appliances maintain their sleek and sophisticated status. Modern, energy-efficient alternatives offer a contemporary touch without requiring major construction. WOODEN WARMTH : Oak, maple, and hickory go beyond trends, infusing warmth and character into the kitchen. STONE STATEMENTS: Marble mosaics stand out as elegant and stylish options for backsplashes. FARMHOUSE FEATURES: Modern, apron-front sinks in white or fireclay finishes add a traditional touch. ELEGANT HARDWARE: Classic drawer pulls and knobs contribute elegance to cabinetry. FUNCTIONAL FLAIR: Opting for open shelving is a practical choice that injects character and facilitates easy decor updates. UNIFIED APPLIANCES: Integrated appliances with custom panels create a cohesive and elegant appearance. LIGHTING UPDATES: The ambiance of the kitchen can be instantly refreshed by changing pendant lights or chandeliers. SEATING SOLUTIONS: Consider incorporating seating options into your island, creating a space for casual dining or socializing. PERSONAL TOUCHES: Easily changeable elements, such as curtains or decorative soft furnishings and decor, can add personality without resorting to construction. MODERN FAUCETS: Revitalizing your fixtures is a manageable approach to contemporize your space.

Contemporary, modern, traditional, farmhouse, minimalist, industrial, mid-century modern, transitional, Mediterranean, cottage, shabby chic, coastal, French - the list could go on and on.  We will talk with six of Colorado’s top designers about the main styles in Colorado and how to blend them to make them uniquely your own.  Erin Dawes: Dawes Designs  Jenni Russell: Design In Perspective.  Adriele Graham  & Elizabeth Berry : House Meraki Delilah Collins: Collins Design & Remodel Mona Wilson: MW Design They are all the owners - the two designers from House Meraki are co owners & designers. INTERVIEW BY KIMBERLY STUBBS Kim:  With so many  design styles out there, it can be difficult to understand them all. What are the main design styles, and what elements define them? Delilah:  Mid-century, farmhouse and transitional. Mid-century  is defined by sleek lines and natural wood tones mixed with light finishes. A popular farmhouse  look is white shiplap paired with rustic fixtures, raw metals and natural finishes.  Transitional is a perfect blend of traditional and modern elements, such as a traditional profile for trim or cabinetry but painted in soothing tones that give the space a sense of timeless character.  Mona:   Another design that is very strong and trending is industrial design. Characterized by displaying the building materials and adding raw, unfinished materials, this can be very masculine. Yet, you can add beautiful chandeliers, wallpaper and textures to bring in a more feminine touch. Jenni:  Modern  uses clean geometric lines and simple color pallets with manmade materials and little ornamentation. Erin:  Mountain Modern  is a blended style. Take a gorgeous strong wood floor, like rustic hickory, and tone down the cabinets with graphite paint. Add in a showpiece, like a built-in bar with a one-of-a-kind live edge countertop, and highlight a treasured western art piece. Contemporary  is still a strong style for Denver homeowners. Contemporary kitchens are turning away from wall cabinets in favor of clean walls and an abundance of storage below countertops. Slab doors win here. Discreet hardware pulls and acrylic gloss or laminate cabinets in any color you want – the bolder the better. Kim: How can homeowners figure out what their design style is?  Delilah: I always request clients to send me inspiration images - even of photos that they do not like!   Elizabeth/Adriele:   Yes, gather images from magazines, the internet or even take pictures of your favorite vacation spots. This will help you understand the overall feel you’re attracted to.  Mona: I also ask what colors make them feel warm, inviting or happy, and what color they like to wear the most. Kim: Most people do not like just one style. How do you incorporate several styles in a design?   Erin : That is exactly what will make the space your own and not simply a magazine photo! It’s the number here that is important. Too many elements and you turn your space into a curiosity shop. Our minds and eyes need negative space to help transition from one design element to another.   Mona:  When I have clients that are very mixed about their design style, I always tell them to start with a neutral palette and build from there. There may be three or four different design styles that we incorporate. At the end of the day it may be eclectic, but it’s their home and we will make it beautiful. Kim: What advice would you give to anyone who needs to blend several styles to make everyone happy and love the space? Elizabeth/Adriele:   Try to merge a single element of a style with an element of another style. This will prevent you from leaning too far into a single style and help capture the perfect balance. Jenni:  Consider what they like most about each style first. Is it the crown molding in the Georgian home they saw in the magazine? Or the light airy colors and simplicity of the beach house they vacationed at?   Pick one or two specific aspects of each style and use it consistently throughout the home.   Elizabeth/Adriele: Yes, we agree! The favorite element picked out of a style should be blended with a different element of another. The key elements to focus on for the final merged design are architectural background, furniture profiles, texture/material preference, as well as patterns and colors. Delilah: Find out what your functional needs are and start there. Collect inspiration images and look for common elements, such as wood tone -vs- white cabinets, clean lines -vs- patterns, soft finishes -vs- accent finishes! I like to blend the preferred styles together and follow up with a countertop that is the most practical for the space. Erin: Flooring usually continues to adjacent rooms, so I recommend a classic choice there.  Cabinetry is expensive! So I favor quality and function, knowing that a hardware swap and a gallon of paint could be in the future. Light fixtures, plumbing fixtures and backsplash are where you can jump into current trends with two feet, since it is relatively easy and inexpensive to change later. Styles WILL change. Don’t worry that your curated, blended-style project might not look exactly like the magazines. It’ll look like YOURS!

Remodeling a kitchen is one of the most exciting, yet daunting, tasks that a homeowner can single-handedly undertake. Endless options for materials and styles are overwhelming for anyone taking on a project like this, especially for the first time. Here’s some thoughts to consider in planning to build your dream kitchen the right way! By Jennifer Lowry Function first Start by taking stock of how you use your kitchen. Decor is fun, but it’s like the icing on a cake. A kitchen needs to work for your lifestyle firstly, because it is usually the main hub for many functions and activities in the home. Consider your daily routine, as well as the types of events you are likely to host. If you use a lot of pots and pans, consider deep drawers for ease of access and organization. If you love to bake…how and where you would like to store your bakeware. Easy reach for everyday essentials vs seasonals may be stored in a completely separate space from the kitchen or possibly even a dedicated cabinet. If you frequently host social gatherings, a cooktop built into your island may be a consideration that allows you to cook while you entertain your guests. Make sure that your kitchen functions in a way that works for you and your family. Take inventory Clutter builds up over time. A remodel is the perfect time to take stock of everything hidden away in those currently hard to reach cabinets of your kitchen. Get rid of anything without a specific purpose and unneeded extras (how many spatulas do you really need?) and plan out storage for your must-have items. A consultation with an interior designer and/or a professional organizer will help guide you in the right direction and may provide you with creative storage solutions for any odd sized or heavy cookware and utensils. Think about the future Once you’ve assessed your current needs and figured out what elements of your current kitchen items you will be keeping, think about how your needs may change over the next five to ten years. Are you planning on expanding your family? Will you be reselling your home in the near future? Planning the right way now will extend the life of your kitchen and marketability for many years to come. Find your style Now for the part everyone has been waiting for. What style?!  Head to Pinterest, pick up some magazines and get inspired! Be aware of trends. There is nothing wrong with a trendy kitchen, but it will likely require updates in the near future. If you're not sure what's considered “trendy” be sure to ask an interior designer who can share with you what's trending now. They can assist you with selecting a nice mix of both timeless and trending options as well. Another key consideration is the style of the rest of the house, particularly open concept kitchens. An ultra modern kitchen may look out of place if the rest of the house is very traditional. Transitional kitchens and mixed styles are a great option if you are remodeling your home in phases as well.   Get help Professional designers do hundreds of these projects over the course of their careers. If you find yourself getting overwhelmed, set up a consultation with a professional. Design boards, samples and the proper guidance will help avoid many of the common issues that you don’t think about until it's too late.

Dani and Landon Mossburg made the move to Denver from Sweden two and a half years ago. The decision to put down roots on a completely new continent came after an extended visit with Dani’s sister and her family. The Mossburgs fell in love with the city and made the unanimous decision to move to Denver permanently — no short order for a family of five. A bit of good fortune led Dani and Landon to a house in Denver’s Park Hill neighborhood; a picturesque section of town bordered on the west by City Park and on the east by the newer development of the Central Park neighborhood. It was exactly where they wanted to start this new chapter in their lives. For the family, finding the house was a dream come true, the only issue was that it would need some work before that dream could fully come to fruition. “We wanted our first ever home to be in this specific neighborhood, near our three kids’ school, so we bought a house that we thought needed a lot of work because it was in a great area,” says Dani. Dani says she loves to cook and host guests — they had moved to Denver in part to be closer to family, after all — so redoing the outdated kitchen and dining area was a central component of the home’s more extensive remodel. Online research led Dani and Landon to Signature Designs Kitchen Bath, where designer Bonnie Bagley Catlin helped them bring to life a vision for their ideal living space. “I always approach any remodeling project based on the function and flow of the space. We figure out the details of how the kitchen will function and then we put the aesthetics and beauty of the space together,” Bonnie explains. Encouraged by Bonnie’s enthusiasm for the project, the team set about creating a kitchen with a modern look that would maintain a classical charm. Settling on a suite of Monogram appliances purchased from Appliance Factory’s Fine Lines. The 30-inch panel-ready premium integrated column refrigerator paired with the matching 30-inch panel-ready column freezer gave the kitchen a sleek yet subtle modernity, while the 48-inch all-gas professional range provided Dani with everything she would need to create bountiful meals for any gatherings. Rounding out the kitchen’s appliances, the 24-inch Statement fully integrated dishwasher would have more than enough power to easily tackle the cleanup, while running so quietly that it would not disturb any intimate after-dinner conversations. “The clients choose the Monogram brand for their performance and ability to integrate them into a seamless design,” says Bonnie. The kitchen also features Maplewood Dura Supreme Cabinetry with a dove paint finish, contrasting nicely with the charcoal glazed cherry praline used on the kitchen’s island. Brass and gold hardware used throughout the kitchen match the light fixtures while adding to the undertones of clean, Victorian-inspired sophistication. All this sits atop engineered Riva Max crystal hardwood flooring, coming together into a bright and welcoming space that deftly walks a line between crisp modernism and brassy classical style. The Mossburgs finally saw their dream home reach completion last year, something Dani says she was incredibly excited for, following a number of delays and unforeseen setbacks that are unfortunately common with renovations. She advises that any other homeowners seeking to do something similar be as active as possible in the process, advocating firmly for their vision of the home while being involved enough to ensure every bit is properly installed and is exactly as desired. “We recently were able to host Thanksgiving and Christmas with both our families and friends and it was so wonderful to finally be able to host everyone in our first-ever home. We cooked massive meals and felt so proud our new home was able to fit so many of our loved ones comfortably,” gushed Dani. “We love a home full of people, laughter and fun, so we plan to have family gatherings, parties and neighbors over all the time.” Signature Designs is a full-service, design-forward firm that offers space planning, construction guidance, interior design and access to trending products, resulting in remarkable remodels. With over 25 years of experience, Signature Designs specializes in guiding homeowners through the planning process to achieve distinct custom homes, providing personalized remodeling and interior design services tailored to individual lifestyles. signaturedesignskitchenbath.com • 303.579.1661 #home #fixer-upper #Denver

A casual conversation between Jon and Annie Bielecki early in the pandemic led to this full kitchen remodel. With the family spending so much time in the house, the couple discussed how some of their original design decisions were not ideal now that they had two growing boys and two dogs. The original L-shaped island enclosed the kitchen and cut it off from the dining area, and they needed more storage for toys and dog food. While discussing solutions, Annie simply asked, “Should we remodel?” They were both on board and started the process almost immediately. They love their neighborhood and want to stay until their boys are grown, and they reasoned that “the sooner it’s done, the longer we can enjoy it.” After a friendly interview, the Bieleckis hired Elizabeth Berry & Adriele Graham from House Meraki to create their new kitchen layout. House Meraki has over 26 years of combined experience and specializes in full-service interior design. According to Berry and Graham, “We approach each project with Meraki – applying soul, creativity, and love to craft truly unique spaces.” They draw inspiration from photographs, architecture, natural elements, and emotion to create practical but diverse designs that suit the individual needs of their clients. House Meraki worked with the Bieleckis to create a modern, eclectic style that strategically combined Jon and Annie’s preferences with family-friendly functionality. The Bieleckis indicated, “We wanted to feel like we were on vacation at home.” The Bieleckis are tall, so the design includes raised cabinets for ease of use and a complete floor-to-ceiling pantry for maximum storage. Berry and Graham removed the L-shaped island, creating a natural flow between the kitchen and dining area. House Meraki expresses, “This allows their kids to participate in family bonding while homework and cooking are happening.” Jon says, “We wanted matching appliances of excellent quality and a slide-in range.” Jon and Annie decided to purchase Bosch appliances from Fine Lines with the help of account manager Johana Corona. Jon says, “We wanted matching appliances of excellent quality and a slide-in range.” As a result, they purchased a 30” electric slide-in range that fit perfectly into their new island. It has Genuine European Convection that allows even baking on several levels while temperature control maintains the heat to prevent burning. They also purchased a Bosch 800 series dishwasher that has RackMatic™; this enables the middle rack to switch between three different heights and nine rack positions. The CrystalDry™ technology can get dishes 60% drier by transforming moisture into heat up to 176°F. Another nifty feature is InfoLight® which projects a light onto the floor while the dishwasher runs and will turn off once it has completed its cycle. “Order appliances as soon as you can and go with the flow....” The Bieleckis completed their renovation during the pandemic despite several delays. Jon’s advice to homeowners who want to remodel is, “Order appliances as soon as you can and go with the flow because things will not go as planned.” Although it took longer than scheduled, Jon and Annie enjoyed the process because they looked at the challenges as a puzzle that they got to solve together. The Bieleckis love how the remodel turned out and cannot wait to use it in the years to come. #Family #Kitchen

photos by Robin Bouricius As the resident Chef at Appliance Factory Fine Lines, I have the pleasure of cooking in many of the kitchens featured in this magazine. When customers at Fine Lines purchase a qualifying appliance package, I join them in the form of a hands-on cooking class and dinner party for 10 guests after their kitchen is installed. This provides an opportunity to address any questions the homeowner may have and celebrate the completion of their project with a fun party. Since the kitchen is the heart of the home where people always gather, these parties are perfect for everyone, from those who rarely cook to passionate home chefs. Recently, I had the privilege of visiting the home of Jules Zhao and her family in Boulder, Colorado. They had just completed a full remodel of their home, of which Jules was the designer. I was impressed by the thoughtful touches throughout, especially in their kitchen. They took the interior of the house down to the studs, replacing drywall and mechanical systems along the way. This approach gave the house a brand-new, modern feel that simply painting and redoing the floors couldn’t achieve. The exterior of the house maintains a classic design that blends perfectly with its foothill surroundings. Some standout features of this fully Thermador outfitted kitchen include a striking island vent hood that hovers above an induction cooktop, paired with a built-in steam oven directly underneath. Adjacent to this setup is a large sink and a matching set of Emerald® and Sapphire® dishwashers, creating a well-organized cooking space. The combination of wood and silver-gray granite countertops adds warmth and texture to the room. I particularly appreciate the blend of matching panel-front appliances with bright stainless steel fronts, including a built-in 36" column refrigeration set, which enhances the Zhao kitchen’s aesthetics. Designed with hosting events in mind, this kitchen is fully equipped to handle any culinary occasion. In addition to the already stellar features previously mentioned, the space boasts a triple-speed double wall oven, perfect for preparing multiple dishes simultaneously. For guests who enjoy a good cup of coffee, a built-in coffee machine stands ready to brew. An under-counter refrigerator and wine refrigerator from Thermador ensure that beverages are chilled and easily accessible during gatherings. These thoughtful additions enhance both the functionality and convenience of the kitchen, making it a true hub for entertaining and everyday living. The seamless integration of high-quality appliances aligns perfectly with the modern aesthetic and practical requirements of the Zhao family’s remodel. Moreover, this kitchen is designed to accommodate growth and family activities. The kids recently enjoyed a pizza party, their favorite foods are easily accessible from low shelves and under-counter refrigeration. During my visit, the adults and I chopped, diced, and sautéed our way through Spanish tapas, with a few of my signature dishes thrown in for a personalized touch. As everyone savored dessert (bread pudding) and I tidied up after our evening of cooking, eating and learning, I noticed one of my favorite custom features: their Roomba robot vacuum has a built-in cubby. When the vacuum springs into action, she emerges from her cubby ready to keep this wonderful home clean and tidy. Additional Insight from Jules Zhao: Our motivation for the remodel stemmed from a desire to rejuvenate our recently acquired home. While the location was perfect, we felt the interior style needed a fresh, modern update. As both homeowner and designer, ensuring a shared understanding of quality was essential throughout our remodeling project. We aimed not only to meet functional needs but also to enhance aesthetic appeal. Key priorities for the remodel included a large island for socializing, ample storage, double dishwashers for efficiency and a seamless indoor-outdoor flow. Our collaboration with Tharp Cabinets was pivotal in realizing our vision. They custom-designed and installed our cabinetry, complemented by a stunning tile backsplash and wide white oak flooring that enhance the overall aesthetic. Each furnishing was meticulously crafted to match our original rendering. Looking ahead, we eagerly anticipate hosting more gatherings in our newly remodeled space. Since completing the project, we’ve been enjoying monthly dinner parties with family and friends. Designer: Jules Zhao (DU Studio) Contractor: Kabili Construction #Contemporary #refinement

photos by Robin Bouricius Remodeling a home is a significant undertaking, even in ideal conditions. Despite the potential for unexpected issues like material delays or contractor challenges, Chris and Lisa Pizzo eagerly embraced the task. They enthusiastically took on the project by personally designing their kitchen, aiming to create a truly distinctive final result. The couple’s home sits at the edges of Golden and Arvada, where the metro area gives way to the dramatic rise of the foothills and North Table Mountain rises majestically not far off. Natural splendor seeps into the area, with pine trees speckling the surrounding properties. That feeling of rugged grandeur was central to the kitchen’s design, which features stunning precious stone countertops that compliment the beauty of the natural lodge poles used in the adjoining portions of the home. “We just wanted to keep the natural look of the house with the stone and wood but brighten it up,” says Lisa. The design of the kitchen came together through extensive online research and trips through the tile store, says Lisa, with special consideration for the eye-catching custom copper oven hood from Vent-a-Hood that was a must to complete their unique vision. A baking station and built-in desk area were also essential to the new kitchen, creating a space that can bring the family together even when there’s work to be done. Previously, Lisa said the kitchen was outdated, with a cooktop stuck in the central island, seriously hampering the utility of the feature. The new design moves the cooktop off of the island, leaving behind a sleek and modern sink smoothly recessed below the gorgeous precious stone mosaic of the countertop. Adding to the modern look of the revamped kitchen are the JennAir appliances used throughout the remodel. Hidden behind the white paneling matched to the kitchen’s cupboards, the dual JennAir refrigerator and freezer opens to reveal an obsidian interior illuminated by ecliptic lighting, drawing a stark contrast to the brilliant white that dominates the kitchen space. Both feature remote access through Wi-Fi that can be integrated with digital assistants such as an Alexa device, as well as hushed acoustics that ensure the whir of a motor never disturbs the serenity of this unique space. A second built-in refrigerator/freezer combo with a stainless steel exterior and obsidian interior is nestled inside the spacious walk-in pantry. The Pizzos love hosting parties, and that requires plenty of room to prepare food. It’s a task the JennAir Rise professional style range is more than up to. With six burners capable of putting out up to 20,000 BTUs of heat, the new kitchen is ready to handle a restaurant’s worth of production. The oven beneath features dual-fan convection and built-in temperature probe, allowing a home chef to precisely gauge the temperature of the food inside without having to open the oven door. And to be sure that the new kitchen can handle extensive hosting duties, the Pizzos included an additional 30-inch single wall oven, also from JennAir. The smaller oven has similar features to its larger counterpart, including the built-in internal probe, ensuring that the turkey and the sides — or anything else one might want to serve at a large gathering — can pop out at the exact right moment. A JennAir Noir microwave rounds out the kitchen’s cooking elements. The microwave utilizes a flat-front design that sits flush with the surrounding cabinets and an intuitive LCD display for operation. To handle the cleanup, the kitchen features a JennAir dishwasher with a pocket handle design that allows it to also sit flush with the surrounding cabinetry. The dishwasher’s extra loading height is sure to come in handy, and the model is one of the quietest on the market. It all comes together in an open and bright design that Lisa describes as “modern farmhouse.” The best part of the remodel, says Lisa, has been having the room to gather around the island to bake and host the holidays. “It is a great space with great lighting.” Still, creating this inviting gathering space wasn’t without its hiccups, and in particular Lisa says she had significant issues with her choice of contractor. She recommends that anyone looking to take the reins on their own home remodel project do their homework thoroughly. “Make sure to get and call references, make sure contractors have insurance, are licensed and in good standing with the state,” she advises. “If they are using subcontractors, [make sure] you have a contract in place that they cannot lien your home, etc. Make sure that [you] get multiple estimates because someone always brings up something the person before didn’t think of.” Prep-Rite Coatings & Contracting LLC can transform your home, commercial building, or industrial building with our repair, maintenance, painting, and staining services using materials from the industry’s top manufacturers. We’ll exceed your expectations and complete your projects with no worries or hassles! 303.376.4046 www.prepritecoatings.com #Modern #Luxury

The cabinets are ordered, the new appliances are installed … now all you need is light! In today’s kitchen, the right lighting in the right places is essential for providing beauty, warmth, and efficiency. But where do you start? Here are some tips from the lighting experts at Urban Lights to make sure your kitchen shines for years to come! Kitchen Lighting 101 will be your guide. Layer Your Lighting “When considering kitchen lighting, it’s important to think of all the activities you’ll be doing in the space,” explains Deborah Arca, Marketing Director at Urban Lights. “Whether it’s cooking, homework, or catching up with a friend over your favorite beverage, you want to ensure all the spaces you work and relax in are appropriately lit.” Today’s best kitchens optimize several layers of lighting, a strategy that mixes three types of illumination for a look that’s functional, beautiful, and mood-enhancing. The three layers are ambient, task, and accent. Ambient lighting is the general overhead lighting in your kitchen that will deliver a broad amount of diffused light to the room. Think of recessed lighting, flush or semi-flush fixtures, sconces, and ceiling fans with lights. Whatever you choose overhead, set the tone with dimmers and bulbs with a warm hue. Task lighting provides light where you need it in a more concentrated form, such as over islands, counters, and sinks, or inside a pantry closet. This category includes pendants and under-cabinet lights available in a number of different configurations. Pendant lights often double as accent lights, providing both the practicality and the pop to a kitchen. The experts at Kichler Lighting have these helpful suggestions for choosing kitchen island pendants: The number of pendants depends on the size of your island and the size of your pendants. Generally, pendants look best in odd numbers but… If you’re using larger pendants over a larger island, 2 could work. As a rule of thumb, pendants should be hung with the bottom 36” from the countertop. Equally important in the task lighting category is under-cabinet lighting . Choose from self-contained under-cabinet lighting, LED tape and channels, or LED pucks and disks to shine a light on preparing ingredients, reading a recipe, and filling the coffee maker. TIP: Install a motion sensor for your under-cabinet lighting for a no-touch, easy entry into your workspace. Accent lighting creates drama in the kitchen by illuminating special objects or unique areas. Use it in glass cabinets to light up vases or art pieces or over cabinets to highlight architectural details. TIP : Install accent tape lights under your island countertop for a soft glow from the center of the kitchen. A newer feature in kitchen lighting is toe kick lighting. Placed under floor cabinets or cupboards, toe kick lighting can really show off cabinetry, defining its baselines and creating the illusion that it’s “floating.” Toe kick lighting also doubles as a nightlight, which comes in handy for those midnight snack runs! Beyond the basics, customers today are asking for more and more sophisticated features in their kitchen, such as backlighting stone, outlet-free backsplashes, and up-lighting cocktail bars. And the lighting industry is responding creatively with ever-new technology. “Lighting technology is so advanced now, there’s almost nothing you can’t do,” notes Arca. “But it’s absolutely essential to work with an experienced lighting professional to come up with the best solutions and make sure you get it right the first time!” Work with an experienced designer at Urban Lights and your perfectly lit dream kitchen is just a click away! #Kitchen #lighting #101

B lack Oak Homes is well known for creating stunning traditional designs. Still, clients have been requesting a more comprehensive range of design options. So when invited to participate in the Parade of Homes, owner Akeem Seriki took the opportunity to unveil this modern chic, move-in ready home in Colorado Springs. Most of the designs by Black Oak Homes are open-concept, but openness is the primary consideration in this kitchen. Designed for entertaining large groups, the kitchen, living room, and dining area flow seamlessly into each other around the large island. The island is topped with a 16' X 14' slab of black pearl granite with a non-beveled edge and curved corners. Supply chain issues made sourcing such a large piece of granite difficult. One of the main challenges of this build was getting the piece into the house because it wouldn't fit through the front door. It had to be brought in through the basement walk-out, and up the stairs, no easy feat! While the island is the centerpiece of the design, this L-shaped kitchen contains another less noticeable but equally impressive feature. A full walk-in pantry is cleverly hidden among the Italian-made black peral cabinets, invisible unless you know where to look. This allows commonly used items to be stored out of sight while still being easily accessible. A complete set of Autograph Edition ZLINE luxury appliances provides functionality to this kitchen. This package has a stainless steel finish and champagne-bronze accent knobs and handles that add elegant style. Akeem picked ZLINE for this project because the brand complements the modern aesthetic. The 36-inch gas rangetop has six Italian-made sealed brass burners with an impressive range of cooking power, from 1,000-18,000 BTUs. The brass burners naturally form a patina and deeper brass hue over time. The patina protects the burners from corrosion and ensures that the burners will withstand even the highest temperatures. The heavy-duty cast iron grates provide a stable surface for oversized cookware. The one-piece scratch-resistant porcelain cooktop makes it easy to clean up spills. Above the rangetop is a range hood with matching bronze accents and LED lighting for ample illumination of the cooking surface. It has four fan speeds and, at the highest speed, efficiently moves large amounts of air away from the cooking area. The stainless steel filters are removable and dishwasher-safe for convenience. The dishwasher features DuraWash Technology for superior cleaning performance. The "auto" cycle automatically detects the proper water temperature and pressure needed for each load. The speed wash cycle can wash an entire load of dishes in 50 minutes, which is perfect for busy families and people who like to entertain frequently. Adjustable racks for any size dish, along with sanitizing, high temperature, and extra dry settings mean that this dishwasher is versatile enough to handle any living situation. Since this kitchen is designed for entertaining, a double wall oven is a must-have appliance perfect for cooking multiple dishes simultaneously. The upper oven has convection bake, roast, convection broil, and proof modes. A built-in temperature probe ensures every dish comes out perfectly while telescoping racks make removing heavy dishes easy. While this kitchen style differs from many that Black Oak has previously designed, the care and passion Akeem and his team put forth remain consistent. "Our mission is to provide exceptional craftsmanship, extraordinary collaboration, and innovation within the building industry. We are passionate about our product, and our solutions exceed expectations. Our homes are built with quality materials and superior craftsmanship, so they stand the test of time. Black Oak has formed tremendous bonds with some of the most gifted contractors around, thereby creating an advantage over our competitors. Creating these bonds has enabled us to continue providing an exceptional product with extremely competitive build times. Over the years, we have spent countless hours listening to the desires of families to create unique and personal homes." Akeem explains. This design won the HBA Parade of Homes People's Choice award and is the second design by Black Oak to win the prize. No wonder this home has already been sold, and all signs indicate that Black Oak isn't slowing down any time soon.