KBB - February 2014 - 22

solutions

* Custom cabinets show off personality. Custom cabinets enable
homeowners to create their own environments reflecting their individualities. With custom cabinetry, homeowners create an ambiance, not just a
kitchen. You should work with your clients to make strategic decisions on
how to construct the cabinetry.
Exotic and costly materials like blackened stainless steel or fumed oak
can be used only in significant places, rather than throughout the space.
Try these more opulent surfaces on the wall you see when you first enter
the room, creating a heightened aesthetic interest for guests and residents alike.

* Appliances. In my opinion, one of the best ways to save is on appliances. People often overspend on cooking equipment and dishwashers.
There is no need to get caught up in buying a package of appliances -
homeowners should choose those best suited for their needs. The exception, however, is the refrigerator - the most used appliance in the kitchen
- and on this there should be no compromising. The refrigerator is an
investment that warrants top of the line.
Using a mix of moderately priced materials and exotic finishes makes
the biggest impact - it's not always all or nothing. With a little careful
planning, your clients can have the luxury kitchen of their dreams without
breaking the bank. n

Where to Save
Believe it or not, there are areas in which you can help save your clients money in a kitchen renovation.
* Leave the walls in place. Sometimes a kitchen expansion can be
achieved through illusion - a reconfiguration of the space. By moving windows, plumbing, electrical and ventilation, you can get a whole new look
without tearing down a wall. You don't have to make the room larger, but
you do have to be willing to look at it as an empty space and re-envision
it, which is exactly what I did in my own 12-in. x 12-in. kitchen.
* Surfacing - faux is fine. Every material in a luxury kitchen doesn't
have to be excessively lavish. I often use porcelain tiles that look like luxurious limestone, but are much less expensive. You may encourage homeowners to try them on walls to create a hearth or cooking niche as well as
embellishment on floors.
I also like porcelain tiles that mimic wood. They look terrific, appear
very realistic and don't compromise on style. As a general rule, it's fine to
save on flooring.
* Design it, don't overdo it. Over-designing often leads to overspending. Homeowners seeking too many crown moldings, fussy details and excessive ornamentation tend to run up the budget without any aesthetic
payoff. Keep it simple and stylish.

The St. Charles-designed Kips Bay Showhouse features economically
friendly porcelain tile on the wall behind the range.

+
K BB

- Karen Williams, ASID, is principal of
St. Charles of New York., a boutique design studio.

My 12-in. x 12-in. kitchen after its renovation, which left the walls intact.

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KBB - February 2014

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