2009 Best of Award Winners
Kitchen Design
Pinnacle of Design Award
Ocean Oasis
Jennifer L. Gilmer, CKD
Having designed kitchens for more than 25 years, Jennifer Gilmer understood that
this kitchen project would require the utmost focus on detail and visual
attention. The homeowner, a top area real estate agent, felt it was essential
for her house to have all of the features that her clients would typically look
for when purchasing a beach house. She was intent on having open spaces that
would make the most of the view without giving up warmth and coziness and was
also searching for a unique cabinet design.
“I avoid having a signature, because I believe that if you really listen to your
clients and develop a design that reflects their personality and taste, then
one signature look would be a disservice,
” Gilmer said. “My signature is not having a signature.”
Gilmer had two main challenges to face when outlining her design. The challenge
of providing seating for six within a confined space was solved by a 72-inch
round, custom made butcher block table to match the walnut cabinets. It sits on
casters to allow for the table to be positioned, semi-attached to the island
but able to be moved when company arrives. Although the island is not centered
in the room, the large, beautiful table is; and the asymmetry created by its
placement compliments the Asian subtleties present in the kitchen.
The second challenge—of a dining room without an ocean view—was solved by omitting the walls on either side of the range and replacing them
with floating shelves suspended by cables. This served both the kitchen and
dining room in function and style. Gilmer concedes that although she avoids
signature designs, if she has any aspect to her design preference that runs
throughout her many projects, it
’s favoring being able to hide ovens and microwaves behind bi-fold retracting
doors, and avoiding double ovens when possible. Otherwise, the slate is wide
open and tailored toward the individual client.
“I’m very aware of my surroundings, whether inside or out, and I like to surround
myself with a pleasing atmosphere. Understanding balance, whether symmetrical
or asymmetrical, helps to create a soothing atmosphere,
” said Gilmer. Project sponsored by Sub-Zero and Wolf.
Teak Retreat
Siri Evju, CKD, CBD
This large space lacked functionality and personality. A wall blocking the view
to the family room was removed; the dining room entrance was relocated; and the
cooking area was placed against a wall to create an appealing backdrop for the
overall design. The backdrop can be seen from the kitchen, dining nook or
family room. A custom curved stainless steel hood on the black backsplash
serves as a focal point for the room. A large prep sink sits conveniently in
the island, along with Sub-Zero refrigerator drawers. New walls to the left and
right of the back wall complete the U-shaped kitchen, with room for a large
pantry, double ovens, a wine cooler, six-burner gas cook top, and a Sub-Zero
refrigerator. The family room is bridged with a curved custom buffet and
cabinet. Black-honed granite counters compliment the grain-matched teak
cabinets.
Evju bridged the family room and kitchen with a custom curved buffet cabinet,
while open shelves display art and pottery. Teak cabinetry in a black European
grain flat panel are enhanced and highlighted by satin black countertops and a
polished black island. Floors in white oak and a light wall color accent the
dark tones of the kitchen and reflect unity, balance and warmth.
“The overall impression of this kitchen is sophisticated, modern and artistic,” Evju said. Project sponsored by Miele.
he National Kitchen and Bath Association has announced the winners of the 2009
NKBA Design Competition, which awards more than $100,000 in cash prizes. The
winners were recognized in Atlanta at the awards ceremony held in conjunction
with the annual Kitchen/Bath Industry Show and Conference.
Open only to NKBA members, the NKBA Design Competition recognizes the talent of
kitchen and bath designers to plan safe, functional and beautiful spaces. A
panel of NKBA-certified designers from all of the organization
’s eight geographic regions judge the projects based on visual appeal and
creativity, as well as principles of design, presentation and safety and
ergonomics. In 2009, the NKBA received a record 679 entries.
This month, Lifestyles magazine takes a look at the top kitchen design winners in three major
categories, as well as the winners for small, medium and large kitchen design.
Bath design winners will be featured in August.
Houston Lifestyles and Homes Magazine features
Houston Homes, Upscale Living, Health and Well-Being,
Shopping, and Entertainment in Houston Texas.
