Kelly’s Kitchen Sync by Kelly Morisseau

Several years ago I decided to give my kitchen a facelift and set about: pulling magazine pages for inspiration; visiting kitchen and bath showrooms to talk to designers about cabinets, counters and plumbing fixtures; reading how-to do kitchen remodel books from cover to cover; and walking the appliance aisles at the big box stores all with the intention of creating my dream kitchen on my own. How hard could it be? I loved DIY and design, and had been decorating the homes of others for quite a few years so I didn’t give it a second thought. I would undertake the kitchen facelift project on my own.

A few months into my project my enthusiasm waned as I learned that kitchen design is a whole different beast. I got through the project but I suffered needlessly. One of my biggest frustrations was the day the refrigerator was delivered. I had worked closely with the appliance store to make sure the refrigerator would fit perfectly in the niche left behind by the late 80s era refrigerator the previous owner had installed. I measured, measured, measured, so imagine my surprise when this expensive refrigerator refused to fit where it was supposed to based on the wall, cabinet and counter measurements and the appliance specifications. My frustration turned to absolute dread when the delivery guys said to me, after trying to shimmy the refrigerator for 30 minutes, “We have another delivery and as much as we want to help you out here, we can’t. Got to go.” They left me with a refrigerator which was slightly angled in place because the top cabinet jutted out less than 1/16th of an inch. Enough to prevent the refrigerator from sliding in snuggly right under it – and the problem wasn’t with the cabinet and counter measurements; no, the refrigerator specs on paper were off by a bit coupled with a less than level floor and a slightly less than square wall-all of which led to the fitting problem. The nightmare scenario then ensued. I had to go to my husband and ask him for help. After some discussion we agreed that we’d keep the refrigerator. I really wanted it and didn’t want to send it back. So we removed the upper cabinets forsaking valuable storage space in the process.

How I wish I had my friend Kelly Morrisseau’s handy guidebook “Kelly’s Kitchen Sync: Insider kitchen design and remodeling tips from an award-winning kitchen expert.” back then. Kelly is a second-generation kitchen designer who lives and breathes kitchen design and remodeling. It’s her passion; one that she has generously shared with readers of her blog, Kitchen Sync. She gleefully answers questions on all things kitchen design with a perfect balance of charming wit, and top notch expertise. Her newly released book expands on the topic of kitchen remodeling and design and offers up loads of tips, advice and recommendations delivered in a warm and conversational tone – just like having Kelly right alongside you! 

I adore Kelly’s take on writing this book, as she shares not only the tips from her successful projects, but she opens up and shares about several design challenges she encountered and how she approached the problems and delivered to the homeowner the kitchen of their dreams.  In the following passage, Kelly details a design challenge: fitting a refrigerator into an angled corner:

Refrigerators are deeper than all other appliances, up to a maximum of 34” deep with handle. Even the “built-in” refrigerators still protrude further than 24” deep once we allow for the electrical plug and counters and side panels.  How the doors swing also determine whether they’ll pinch against a corner.

The last refrigerator I placed next to a lazy susan, I allowed 15” of swing space to the adjacent counter. The design was hindered by the kitchen door to the garage, which wouldn’t allow us any more movement away from the corner. So I designed with the understanding that according to the appliance specifications, 14” of clearance width to the corner was sufficient.

Except it wasn’t and the specifications were incomplete. Any time the door swung wider than 135 degrees, it hit against the counter and eventually had to be redesigned.

When you design the refrigerator next to the corner, ask how wide you will be swinging the door open before you make your final decision…and allow more than what the specifications say.

Kelly also goes beyond offering her design expertise in this book. She discusses some of the leading appliance and cabinetry trends in the kitchen design industry which I think makes this book even that much more useful to homeowners. For example she shares why she thinks Induction cooking ranges will overtake gas ranges over the next few years. Those little industry insights peppered throughout the book will give homeowners the additional information that they won’t necessarily find at the design showrooms or big box appliance or cabinetry stores where they only show you what’s available now. Which is fine if your project is a near-term endeavor and/or you don’t necessarily care about technological or design innovations. But if your project is slated for a few years out, and you do want to buy the most technologically advanced designs, then it’s imperative that you know where the kitchen design industry (appliances, cabinetry, surfaces, etc) is headed.

“Kelly’s Kitchen Sync” is a wonderful guide book that covers kitchen remodeling from inspiration to designing to purchasing to completion while offering homeowners fantastic and insightful tips to help them avoid many of the pitfalls often associated with remodeling.

Where to buy:

Kelly’s Kitchen Sync on Amazon

Contact:

• Kitchen Sync Blog
• Kitchen Sync on Twitter
• Kelly Morisseau {Kitchen Sync Book} on Facebook

Jennifer Gilmer of Jennifer Gilmer Kitchen & Bath, Ltd

Tell us about your award-winning design business, Jennifer Gilmer Kitchen & Bath, Ltd.

The key to an award winning business is to be completely motivated by the craft itself, not by the money that it generates.  When a company  comes from this frame of mind, it feels alive and welcoming when a person walks in.  Then, through the design process, pleasing our clients through creating unique and beautiful kitchens and baths further generates this good energy.  What makes it so wonderful for me and for my designers is the collaboration with our clients.  Truly enjoying what we do and enjoying interesting people that we meet is very satisfying for us. 

Getting the word out there is also key to a company’s success.  Almost from the beginning (25 years ago), I made it a point to get my work professionally photographed, and, eventually, this perpetuated even more success.  I realized many years ago, that I had all of this great work to show but I wasn’t getting it out there.  So, I hired a marketing person, Priya Gupta, and, through her ability to make contacts and to get my work showcased, she has really been a big part of putting me and my company on the map.  The way that she’s presented JGKB in our ads and through the editorial that she’s helped to get published, it becomes apparent to the public that we, the designers, are exceptionally talented.  This is very contagious, first from a potential client looking at this published work, then coming in and meeting us and finally seeing that we share their excitement.  Throughout the entire process, our clients rest assured that we are dedicated to doing the best job possible and at the same time, they are amazed at how we can make a typically stressful process inspiring and joyful. 

Also, the follow-through is very, very important throughout the entire project and beyond.  We are big on communication and respond immediately to phone calls and emails.  If someone calls and needs some kind of service work, we get our service manager, who happens to be my husband, over to the home within 24 hours.  They see that he, too, is just as dedicated, and, they can’t believe that we do business the old fashioned way – taking care of our customers because we care .  We will provide this service as long as the client needs us, and, at no charge.  Our philosophy is that, since the client came to us and believed in us, then, it’s our job to show them that same unfailing dedication.  This word spreads like crazy so much so that I’ve had many clients tell me (through the last 13 years) that one of the reasons they decided to work with us is because they heard that we take care our clients, even years after the work is completed.

What inspired you to pursue this business? 

I am a very visual and creative person who also loves math and engineering.  I also really enjoy meeting people and helping them to realize their dream kitchen or bath.  So, all of these attributes are necessary in a business that demands the use of all of these skills.  I knew that I wanted to go into some kind of design when I was 12, discovered that I loved to draft in high school, and, through pursuing that, found out about the kitchen design business.  As soon as I landed my first job in the business, I discovered that I was a natural at it.  Starting my own business was necessary so that I could create the kind of atmosphere that felt good to me and to my clients.  I worked at great places as a training ground, but, all of the places I worked were "sales" oriented, not committed to design first, knowing that this naturally makes the sale.  It took some time, but, I eventually put together an excellent and dedicated staff .  When we had more clients then I could handle, I was blessed with finding designers who are just as talented and who share my same philosophies.  

Was owning your own design business always a dream you aspired to?

Not really, I was a little reticent to do this since I saw my two former bosses struggle with the responsibilities that come with owning a business. As it turned out, though, because I was able to put into place an excellent staff  and design team with a very stringent system of operation, the business pretty much runs itself. If so, could you briefly share with our readers your business success story?  A lot of hard, hard work and a lot of hours.  Mainly though, it’s a dedication to our clients that drive us, along with a dedication on our part to make an extra effort to make every job a beautiful one.  I noticed that a lot of other similar companies don’t make an effort to market themselves.  I spend a lot of money on photographing projects and then getting the work out there.  I found that this pays of, tremendously.  After all, what good is it to create masterpieces if you don’t share them with the world?  This may sound self aggrandizing, but, it actually took me years to realize that, as long as it’s true, there’s nothing wrong with announcing it with confidence.

It’s also very important to find a great location.   Because I grew up in Chevy Chase, MD, I realize that people from this area and further north don’t like to go downtown where parking and traffic are always a frustration.  I was invited to open a showroom at a couple of design centers downtown, but, after considering it, I came to the conclusion that the location would be a hindrance to constantly overcome.  So, the location that I found is only a mile north of Washington, D.C, right on a main road, Wisconsin Avenue.  This make it easy for those who live just outside of D.C. and also easy for those who live downtown to reach our location.  With two store front windows where the traffic jams up every morning and every evening, people have nothing to look at while sitting in traffic, so, they look into our showroom and other storefronts.  I’ve had many clients tell me that they had been admiring our displays for years and couldn’t wait for the day that they were ready to come in and start their project!

Today you are a recognized as one of the top design talents in the country -one that inspires so many other designers.

Why, thank you!

Do you have any advice for those designers who are inspired by what you have achieved and hope to someday reach your level of success?

Oh, yes.  First of all, LISTEN to your clients and RESPOND to their needs.  I’m a firm believer that I’m simply the tool that’s able to create for them that which they love.  By listening, you can meld with them, get into their head and create a space that totally reflects their inner beauty.  They may not know what they want, but, it’s my job to decipher that through our having very meaningful communication in several meetings.  Our business is a service business and I never feel put out if a client can’t make up their mind right away because that’s why they need us, to do what it takes to get them to a point where they can make decisions without any doubts. So, always be supportive and responsive without fail.  So, if you come from this frame of mind with everything you do and say, the clients will feel supported and appreciative and the work will naturally shine.  If you handle yourself as a professional in this way, the referrals will pour in, and, thus, the success will follow.

As far as skills, I can’t emphasize enough that it’s very important to learn how to hand draft.  When the designer can draw concepts – whether they be in plan view, in elevation view or a small perspective – this breeds confidence in their client. They just  know that they are in talented and capable hands. Also, the client can understand concepts that are difficult to explain, so, they feel more comfortable that they have properly interpreted the ideas that are being presented.

So, this leads me to giving out a big secret to all of the designers out there.  When I work on the design, I do this right in front of the client in the showroom.  I feel that design time behind the scenes is a waste of time.  Why not have the people you’re designing for be present as the ideas are explored.  This is a huge time saver since you’ll never spend time, going down the wrong road, most likely drafting something that they may not like.  What we do first is we focus on the mechanics of the floor plan, using tracing paper to "play" with the space.  This way, the client is there to see why I’m recommending something other than what they thought they wanted.  The client also can have input as we’re working together so that I can understand better how they use their space, and then, we can decide together if what they are asking for really works or not.  At the end of this meeting, we have a layout,and, they thoroughly understand how it evolved .  Most importantly, they are confident that it’s the best that it can possibly be for them and for how they function in their home. 

The next step is to have the plan view drafted on Autocad, which includes very simple elevations.  These drawings hardly have any detail (what I call “skeleton” elevations). In the next meeting, I use the same technique, placing tracing paper over the elevations and then work out all of the aesthetics with the client (door styles, mouldings, counter thicknesses, hoods, etc) while they watch and engage in the design details.  At the end of this appointment, I have a scroll of tracing paper with elevations of their new kitchen all hand drawn, and, on occasion, I’ll draw some perspectives to help understand a difficult concept.  This scroll makes it easy for the client to understand and imagine their new space. 

The biggest advantage of using this technique is that the client has played an active role in the creation of their kitchen and/or bath.  They feel as though they were a co-designer (which in fact, they were!!).  Most of all, they feel like the new space is a true reflection of their personality.  Now, the design is done, and, all you have to do is finish up the formal drawings.  This works like magic and makes the clients so happy that they don’t hesitate to move forward.  If you have an experience with a client who can’t make up their mind and can’t move forward, it’s because something doesn’t feel right to them with the design, but, they can’t figure out what it is.  This technique clears up any and all ambiguity.  It’s a very inspiring experience for everyone.  Even after 25 years of doing this kind of work, I still get chills and goose bumps when great ideas fly around the design table throughout the process. 

You recently launched an interesting new web-based kitchen design service, Kitchen Design Online (KDOL). What was your inspiration for creating this online service?

Throughout the years, I’ve been hearing people grumbling about not being able to afford going to an experienced designer mainly because they equate this with having to pay a higher price for better quality materials.  I’ve had clients come into me saying this after meeting with someone at a big box store, a discount cabinet store, or a lumber company.  They are always pleasantly surprised that I can offer them great design along with less expensive products.  They also are amazed at how the plan for their new kitchen is so much better then what they though they’d ever be able to have. 

How does KDOL help DIYers looking to remodel their kitchen or bath?

So, for those people who, unfortunately, don’t realize that they can work with and can afford experienced kitchen designers, I got the brainstorm to offer kitchen design on the internet at a reasonable price.  I thought that this would be a great way to bring excellent design to the masses, all over the world.  I also realized that this is the wave of the future, communicating, working and shopping on the internet in the comfort of your own home.  This site only focuses on the design and is not a place to buy cabinets.  By having a great design in hand, the client has the freedom to take these plans anywhere to be able to compare prices, and, can rest assured that whatever company eventually supplies the cabinets, the design will work, from execution to completion.

This is also a wonderful tool for other professionals in related businesses:

Design Build firms     -    These companies typically have their own sources for cabinets, so, they won’t go to a showroom since they only design if that company provides the cabinets.  They can save themselves time and money by using our service.  This is because their specialty is designing a structure, and, even though they can design a kitchen, it just isn’t something that they do on a daily basis where they have the level of knowledge and skills that kitchen designers have.  So, they either decide to design the kitchen themselves, which takes up precious time where they could be working on the bigger picture or overseeing another project -or- they could add a kitchen/interior designer to their staff, whose salary would cost the company a lot of money per year. 

Either way, many times, the client will not get the best end product possible.  There are always firms around that are exceptions to this but, I find that they are few and far between.  Many times I’ve heard people say that, while they liked working with their Design Build firm and liked the outcome, they wished that they had a kitchen designer work on the kitchen part of their project.  They say this because, in the end, they realize that the kitchen could have been better.  Clients dedicate a lot of time and spend a lot of money on their project, so, for them to have any regrets  or reservations does not reflect well on the company that they hired and relied on. 

KDOL can spend the time communicating with the client, design a kitchen that the client will inevitably love, save the Design Build firm time and money, and, along with all of this, ensure more referrals for their company.  It’s a totally win-win situation for everyone involved!

Interior Designers     -    A lot of people don’t realize that interior design is a completely different business than kitchen design.  Interior designers specialize in fabrics, furniture, wall coverings and space planning in rooms other than the kitchen.  There are exceptions to this as well where the interior designer can design a beautiful and, we hope, a functional kitchen, but, again, these designers are few and far between.  I would never try to design any other room other than the kitchen because I don’t do that every day and therefore, my lack of knowledge would be a disservice to the client.  So, KDOL can be a compliment to the interior designer, expanding this professional’s offerings in a way that otherwise wouldn’t be possible.  We offer to work with their client directly, or, to work with the designers behind the scenes so that they can have complete control of the project.  We have one designer in Canada who uses our service and chooses to work with us behind the scenes. We even add her logo to the drawings (she LOVES this).  We make her look very good, she can take the design to the cabinet supplier, get a better discount since the cabinet supplier didn’t have to do the design work, sell the cabinets to her client and make more money.  This also frees her up to be able to work on another project while we prepare the kitchen plans.

KDOL can spend the time communicating with the client and/or with the designer, save the designer time and ensure referrals to the company.  Again, a win-win situation for everyone involved.

Architects                -      I’m always amazed at how much knowledge architects are required to have about all aspects of designing and building structures.  They have to spend an enormous amount of time drawing designs, preparing a gazillion details, researching and specifying products, and keeping up with new requirements in building codes and simply staying current with their profession (that’s only the beginning of what they have to know).   Since they need to know so much, how can they also spend time being a specialist in kitchen designing?  Some are able to design beautiful and, we hope, functional kitchens, but again, this is usually the exception.  So, the benefits for Architects using KDOL’s services are very similar to how we help builders and interior designers.  We save them time so they can get other work done, or, can spend more time with the client or at their job sites.  The collaboration of working with KDOL, whether with their client or directly with them behind the scenes, always ensures a successful outcome and a happy client.  For architects, we almost always use their logo or more often, send the plans via AutoCad so that they can incorporate the plans in with all of the other house plans.

Where do you find inspiration for your designs? 

Traveling to new places is always a great inspiration, no matter where it is.  Looking at other kitchen designs or any interior design magazine can spark ideas.  Just walking around or going out to a restaurant while being aware of the surroundings will give me ideas.  Just t he other day, I was in a restaurant and was admiring the ceiling detail and the type of wood they used.  Working with other professionals opens up the door to new resources, new products or even old ones that I was never aware of before.  Working with architects and seeing the design of the house to be built, or, an existing house and it’s character.  I’m doing a kitchen in a French Normandy style home, and, we’re using the same stone as the stone walls outside as well as the brackets on the porches. and overhangs.

Tell us about a favorite home decorating or remodeling project. 

Wow, there are SO many! I have to say, however, that my favorite project is my own home.  It was through this process that I realized how important the collaboration is with other professionals.  My architect, Amy Gardner, with whom I now work with on a regular basis, was such an inspiration.  She helped me to refine the designs for my kitchen and my baths in a way that taught me more about contemporary design.  Washington D.C. had been renowned for years as a place where most people want traditional design in their traditional houses, so, I had more experience in this kind of design.  For me to learn more at this point in my career was very, very inspiring.  She, too, said that she learned a lot from me, so, the symbiotic relationship was such a joyful experience.  Being able to live in a space that we designed for me reminds me every day of how much I enjoy what I do.  This was also the first project where I was introduced to and used green products.  Amy is one of the first in her field to be a LEED certified architect, so, what better teacher could I have had!

What’s your favorite color?  I always struggle with this question because I love so many colors.  I find it interesting that trends in colors changes as time goes on.  In the ’60s it was olive green and harvest gold, in the ’70s it was brown, orange and yellow, in the ’80s it was black and mauve in the ’90s it was ochre and tomato soup red, in the 21st century it’s been dark brown and aqua and now it’s orange and gray and light ice blue.  It’s important to go with colors that speak to you rather then just going with the trends so that your home won’t be dated.  I can’t tell you how many homes I’ve been in that still have the mauve and black theme, and, I know that the last time the house was updated was back in the ’80s.  Not only is it dated, but, it reminds me of a time when design went through a very bad period, so, it has such a bad connotation for me and I’m sure it does the same for others. 

I believe that people have colors that compliment and resonate with them, like, fall colors, pastel colors, natural colors, etc.  For me, I fluctuate between natural muted colors like blue/gray (periwinkle), sea foam green or vibrant royal colors like turquoise and orange.  I find that various shades of soft green are safe colors when designing since a lot of people seem to like that color.

What are your five favorite pieces of home décor from your home or elsewhere? 

In my home I absolutely love the antiques that were handed down from my parents.  These inspired me at a young age to notice details, so, they bring back good memories for me.  They are also an excellent example of craftsmanship, something that is precious these days since it’s presence in our world today is waning.  I love the reclaimed oak floors and wood beams in my house because it has a lot of character and had been in some other structure somewhere at some time in the past, so, it has some mystery about it that intrigues me.  The same goes for the antique light fixtures that I bought for various rooms, especially the chandelier in my dining room, they feel as though they have always been in my house and have that same craftsman character that antiques tend to have.  I bought an antique bronze sculpture of Pan by a famous French sculptor, Durnot, and this is in the middle of my antique mahogany, round dining room table under my favorite chandelier.  Every day when I walk in, I admire these items and their arrangement. 

There is a certain amount of satisfaction and joy that comes from surrounding yourself with items that resonate with you and at the same time, compliment your home.  I truly believe that spaces have a certain energy which can be affected positively or negatively depending on whether it truly resonates with you and compliments the home.  This is the key to great kitchens too, they do just this, and, I often joke that my secret to great design is that I use Western Fung Shui.  Many people in the western world don’t understand this philosophy.   For us, the concept of "things" having an energy of their own and that they can affect a space based on their placement, is foreign to us.  It’s a subtle energy that feels good, so, pay attention to the next time you walk into a room that makes you feel good, and remember that this is exactly why.

What’s your favorite room at home?

Of course, my favorite room is the kitchen/family room including the butler’s pantry.  It’s a space that is open yet warm where I can cook and socialize at the same time or just settle in and be comfortable in the morning and in the evening.  It’s a space that’s filled with wonderful memories of family and friends.  It’s also a space that I’m very proud of.  It’s a reflection of my inner self, so, through admiring it, I’m admiring my own spirit.  This is what I offer to my clients, a place where they can feel inspired, feel present, feel comfortable and safe and see in it, a reflection of themselves. 

Who are your favorite designers (past and/or present)-those that have inspired you? 

I am often asked this question, and, I have a very hard time answering it.  I was never a student of other people’s work, although I studied some of them throughout school, but, I never focused on who they were and therefore could never really remember names.  All I remembered was the visual stimulation and what I got from it that I incoporate into my own work.  So, I’m funny that way, I’m kind of on my own island focusing mainly on my work.  Just the other day, someone was asking me about this designer and that artist and I didn’t know most of them, which was a little strange to this person (and a bit embarassing).  One time years ago, I went to the Interior Designer Awards in NYC, and, I hardly knew any of them.  I guess I don’t compare myself to anyone, just like my signature in design, which really is, "no signature at all" .  Every design that I work on is unique and original  and solely based on any inspiration in the moment of its creation.  I so have to say, that years ago, I was blown away by Fu Tung Cheng’s work, he’s an architect, kitchen designer and has a line of hoods that are fabulous and also sells concrete counter tops, fireplaces, walls, and other items that are simply elegant. When you look at this, you’ll see what I mean!  I also admire the work of my architect, Amy Gardner.

What’s your personal design style?

Another difficult question, since, I appreciate all design as long as it’s done well.  My personal design style tends to change based on my life experience or based on what I’m exposed to.  I have to say that I now prefer clean and warm contemporary, a preference that I can thank Amy Gardner  for, the architect for my major home renovation.  Has it evolved over time? Yes, it certainly has, and, the only way that it couldn’t have evolved is if I were either stuck in a rut or dead!  I’ve gone from leaning toward classical/traditional style to the clean and warm contemporary style. 

I believe that the absolute joy of living this life is the evolution of our spirit through our lives by being open to learn and being open to give ourselves the freedom to welcome all experiences, good , bad or different. The reason I’m getting a little deep here is because, I’ve witnessed clients, and, other professionals, who are afraid to try something different than what they are comfortable with or have been surrounded by all of their lives.  These people will say, "you know, I really love these contemporary kitchens, but, I’m afraid to do it in my own home."  I have to admit that I too, was kind of like this when I approached Amy to take charge of my renovation since my house is a very traditional bungalow. 

I honestly thought that I had no choice in the matter since the kitchen needed to compliment this very traditional American style.  She knew that I had an affinity for Asian contemporary, particularly Japanese contemporary, through our initial conversations.  When we had our first meeting to discuss the exterior of the house, I was totally and completely amazed!  I had learned through school that Japanese architecture was an inspiration for the American Bungalow style, BUT, I had forgotten about this.  Well, Amy reminded me about the history of the Bungalow style(she’s also a professor of architecture at the University of Maryland).  I was pleasantly surprised because here I have a Bungalow and I also love Japanese architecture!  So, she got out the elevations of the front of the house, and, VOILA, my bungalow was turned into a Japanese Tea House that still looked like a bungalow!  And then, she told me that the addition on the back can be contemporary, which pleased me even more.  So, Amy did for me that which I do for my clients…a sign of a true professional…she tuned into my likes and dislikes and brought out in my project that which resonated with me!  Finally, the contemporary design in the back where the new kitchen would be located, allowed us to design a contemporary kitchen and this, for me, was a Breath of Fresh Air!  So, you see, if I stayed locked into my traditional taste and didn’t allow her to explore a different style than I expected, then, I would have missed the opportunity for my style to evolve.

Many of us have a product we’ve bought for our home-that now makes us think-"what was I thinking" -  do you have one?

Yes, I certainly do, even designers make these mistakes.   I remembered a cowhide rug that my parents brought back from brazil.  I was always fond of it and thought that this type of rug would look great in my new family room.  I found a company (Kyle Bunting) that makes these rugs in all kinds of absolutely beautiful patterns and colors.  I was in awe and just had to get one, so, I did.  What I didn’t realize is that these rugs are only good to use in low traffic areas since, otherwise, they’ll eventually go bald, literally!  I made that same mistake with my Corbusier Lounger, it has pony hide on it, and, that’s balding too.  Then, the whole animal skin theme these days is really not kosher if it’s authentic.  This I realized when I brought a client over who is active in the Humane Society and is a vegetarian, and, the worst moment was when I showed her my sheep skin rug in my bedroom (made by Kyle Bunting).  It was an aha moment for me.  I justified it by saying, well, at least I’m honoring the animal by putting it’s hide to good use and admiring it.  That went over like a lead balloon!

I also… 1.  put a second dishwasher in the butler pantry, and, I never use it. 2.  put a dark cork floor in the upstairs addition and it’s fading from the sun that comes in the sliding glass door.  3.   Put a tub with a wood surround in my very large master shower and the wood isn’t treated well enough to withstand the moisture.  I assumed that if it’s made to go around a tub that they used a Durata finish which is impenetrable.  So, I should have asked. 4. Put in a prep sink with a pot filler that never gets used (was hoping my husband would make salad while I cooked…yeah, right!) 5. Oiled and waxed the reclaimed oak floors instead of polyurethane, it looks absolutely beautiful…for the pictures.  Needs to be re-waxed at least twice a year.  I was told about this, but, did it anyway.  This is a good example of form over function, and, I’d probably do it again knowing me.  We put in a stereo system, not thinking about new technology like Apple TV or similar technology. 

Describe your dream room. 

I didn’t think that I had one, but, after thinking about it, I actually do! 

I’d love to have a master bath combined with the master bedroom that is a contemporary Asian style, somewhat minimalist.  The bed and bathroom would be one big room divided by a large but very simple double faced limestone fireplace.  It will also have a glass Nana wall all along the back, the entire span of the bath and bedroom, as well as on the end of the just the bathroom which would allow the walls to be completely opened up to the outdoors on one long and one short wall.  It would have a water feature on the opposite long wall, almost the entire length of the room, that runs down a horizontally ridged granite wall so that the water would have a ripply, fairly quiet, sheet of water flow along the entire granite slab.  The water would flow under the room and then come out at the back in a troth through the deck and patio and into a medium si zed outdoor infinity pool.  There would be a beautiful garden with bamboo and fragrant flowers, like orange blossoms, when in bloom. 

Going back into the interior, the ceiling would have  dark reclaimed walnut beams that sit on square posts in various places and at the corners of the room. One of these would go between the two Nana walls that open up.  there would be another large double faced limestone fireplace, very simply done, on the back wall near where the water flows out into the troth.  There will be reclaimed wide plank walnut floors stained fairly dark.  Close to the interior fireplace will be a platform made using limestone with two very wide steps up, and, in the middle would be a recess that would contain a teak Ofuro soaking tub large enough for two, sunken down a bit with a 12" border of loose, heated, black river rocks surrounding the tub at the bottom.  The shower would have two parts to it, one part would be completely open, near the ofuro tub, and, the other part would have glass to the ceiling and would contain a steam feature.

The bedroom would have the master closet at the short end, the entire wall will have sliding, shoji-like doors, made using natural teak and frosted glass.  Behind these doors will be a very well organized master closet with a large, square, teak chest of drawers in the middle of the room and a combination of teak shelves, drawers and hanging rods around the perimeter.  The floor will be a rug that looks and feels like a tatami matt.

The furniture would be built in, a fairly low bed, recessed in the floor much like the ofuro soaking tub and built in teak tables with beautiful  rice paper hanging pendants for lighting above the end tables.  There would be a built in, low bench with a back on it and is the right size for a double futon.  This bench would be low like the bed and will have many large throw pillows on it, comfortable for lounging, napping or reading a book.  It would also be able to be adjusted up to a higher level to the correct height for massages. 

I have to go now and start drawing this room, LOL!

What are your favorite blogs or home design/improvement websites? 

I am a loyal fan of your website, you offer people informative, meaningful  and realistic information.  I have my own blog, but, am having difficulty finding time to keep up with it.  Once I have more viewers and participants, I think that will inspire me to be more loyal to keeping it updated.  The only other blog that I like is the one from one of my cabinet lines, Premier Custom Built, and the Premier CB designer’s Blog.  Their website is wonderful too.  If you’d like to see my house, and, get more inspiration checkout Amy Gardner’s projects. For lighting fixtures,  I like to go to Lighting Universe .  It’s fun to look at rugs at Kyle Bunting’s site. If you’re curious about wall systems, then go to Nana Walls.   For more inspiration, go to Cheng Designs , or my website,  Jennifer Gilmer There are so many more websites that I like to use, but, these are the ones that come to mind at the moment.

What are your favorite books, design shows and/or magazines? 

Sarah Susanka and all of her "Not So Big House" books.  She shows one of my projects in the Home by Design  book which I did in Pescadero, CA.  It’s an Asian style, of course.  I also like Fu Tung Chengs books and another designer, Mick de Guilio, has a new book out which I haven’t had a chance to read yet, but , I’m sure that it’s a good one.  I like a lot of magazines, I like Southern Living (they featured my house in this last October issue), and Trends, Trends Bathrooms, Trends Kitchens, Elle, Dwell our local publication, Home and Design I’m sure there are more that I’m not recollecting at the moment.

Do you have a kitchen or bath design or remodeling tip you’d like to share with The Decorating Diva.com readers?

Yes, use a kitchen designer, don’t DIY unless you’ve done it before on your own.  Don’t hesitate to go to a high end firm to consult about your kitchen, always bring a copy of your space to scale, or, a sketch of the space with dimensions written in.  Make sure the designer is listening to you, if not, don’t use that person and go to the next place.  If you find one who listens, then, make sure you find out if they are good at following through with details, for instance, do they call you right back or reply quickly to emails?  Ask them what other professionals work with them (architect, interior designer, contractor) since this is alone can be a good sign of their ability, but, it’s also a good idea to call that professional to inquire about who you’re selecting to work with you.   

Contact Details:

• Website: Jennifer Gilmer Kitchens
• Jennifer’s Kitchen Design Blog
• Kitchen Design Online
• Jennifer’s Column ‘Kitchen Design Secrets Revealed’ on The Decorating Diva.

Studio M

Designer Notes: With this kitchen, it is all about modern, sleek contemporary finishes to play up reflective surfaces. The espresso cabinets are complimented by elongated hardware to create that contemporary feel. Glass paneled pantry doors add a unique feature and another element of reflective materials to the space.

 Designer Notes: Contemporary, spa, and zen-like are all words I’d use to describe this icy blue bedroom. A dynamite custom tufted headboard creates a plush feel and becomes the focal point of a room.

Designer Notes: This dining room is all about custom, custom, custom. The multicolored table becomes the central focal point in the room, while the wall of niches is a unique way to bring funky accessories in, while making them architectural.

Designer Notes: When it comes to a master bathroom, it should be a place of refuge. This bathroom was designed to make the end user feel completely relaxed. A space like this proves that contemporary can feel warm.

About Michelle Jennings Wiebe

Michelle Jennings Wiebe, ASID, is the President/Principal Designer of the premier interior design firm Studio M Inc., based in Tampa, Florida. Studio M specializes in luxury residential design, but is also well known for their sleek commercial interiors. While she is considered an expert in new construction, Michelle thrives on taking any space and transforming it into both living artistry and functional desirability. Her passion for interiors is to “develop livable works of art that are timeless.”

As a graduate of Florida State University, she received her Bachelor of Science in Interior Design. Prior to and upon graduating, she was an Assistant Designer for Gail Olsen Interiors in Clearwater, Florida. She founded Michelle Jennings Design Studio Inc. in 1991 (later changing the name to Studio M Inc. in 1999.) Her portfolio of almost two decades includes the recent completion of Signature Place, a two hundred and forty four unit luxury condominium tower in downtown St. Petersburg, Florida.

About Studio M

Studio M is a full service interior design firm located in Tampa, Florida. Our company has over twenty years of industry experience in both residential and commercial design. We also specialize in new construction projects including concept development and construction management. Whether big or small, we have the resources to manage any size project. Studio M will customize our services to meet your specific needs.  We take pride in giving each client the time and attention needed to successfully complete each project.

We work with each client to help design an interior that reflects not only their taste and style but also their specific lifestyle, values, and accomplishments. Studio M thrives on taking any space and transforming it into both living artistry and functional desirability. Our passion for interiors is to “develop livable works of art that are timeless.”

 CONTACT

• Website: Interiors by Studio M
• Blog: Interiors by Studio M Blog
• Twitter: @StudioM_
• Facebook: Studio M Interiors

3 Kitchen Design Pro Secrets to Create an Amazing Backsplash

1.  Focal Point Design

Capuano Kitchen Design Project: Custom hand-painted backsplash over cook top.

Custom hand-painted tiles are a beautiful way to create a unique kitchen backsplash that becomes a statement piece–one that mirrors your design aesthetic, style and personality. Many tile companies offer beautiful murals, hand-painted borders and decorative tiles that can be customized to fit your design needs, and project color palette.

2.  Seamless Beauty

Bartlett Kitchen Design Project: White Pillowed Tiled Backsplash.

Patterned tiles work well to create an overall pattern repeat similar to that of wallpaper which creates a visual impression of seamless flow. The pillowed tile shown in the above photo was hand painted to match the clients fabric colors in the adjacent family room. The tiles are 6′” x 6” which makes the 18” high backsplash area seamless without cuts. In this kitchen plug molding was used so there were no outlets on the backsplash and the switches were placed on return walls.

Avoid creating visual distractions such as outlets, pot-fillers and switches in the backsplash.  A kitchen design trick for Pro results is to plan for these visual disruptions early on. Designers are keen to use plug moulding (to hide outlets and switch covers), which is installed under the cabinets and is hidden by light rails trim or using a countertop disposer switch as a great way to avoid having a disposer switch on the tile backsplash. Another easy to implement design trick is to have your electrician place outlets very close to the countertop and run them horizontally instead of vertically. 

Milwit Kitchen Design Project: Mosaic Backsplash in earthy, rustic tones.

Though mosaic tile is beautiful in any setting; mosaics are the perfect solution to create an illusion of seamless design. In kitchens, one of the major obstacles that often pops up in tiling backsplash walls is the issue of uneven heights like those under the window sill, behind a hood area, along a peninsula and inside an open shelf. Those uneven height considerations often call for smaller tile cuts which can give a seamed look to the wall, instead of a nice, uninterrupted visual flow.

Mosaic tiles come in an exhilarating array of materials (marble, glass, ceramic, metal, slate, leather and other enticing materials), textures, colors, finishes, patterns and sizes, so there’s no end to the lovely combinations you can find for your kitchen backsplash design project.

3.  Illuminate and Brighten

Smith Kitchen Design Project: Backsplash implemented in light reflecting glass tiles.

Glass tiles are very popular and are often used in contemporary kitchen design projects, eclectic kitchens, and transitional kitchens. The reflective qualities of glass tile are a great source of light and color, and help to create the visual illusion that your kitchen is much bigger and brighter than it really is – the perfect design solution to brighten and enlarge that dark, and small kitchen space.

About Davida Rodriguez

Maryland-based, kitchen and bath designer, Davida Rodriguez has been creating beautiful kitchen, bath and tile designs in the Washington, DC area for over 22 years. Davida’s love for design was nurtured early on in her college career as she studied fine arts and crafts.  She is recognized for her design talent in artfully expressing her clients ideas and dreams for their kitchen, bathroom or tile project.

A native of the Washington DC area and an Interior Design graduate from the University of Maryland, Davida embarked on her career in kitchen and bathroom design at Jack Rosen Custom Kitchens. Davida spent nine years there until she  on a new journey focusing in the area of tile design at Architectural Ceramics, in 1997. Davida saw a huge area for growth in tile design and knew that this emerging design direction would help to transform her kitchen and bath projects to a whole new level.

In 2006, Davida seized the opportunity to establish her design firm, Davida’s Kitchen and Tiles, which would combine her extensive knowledge of the kitchen, bath and tile fields together in an extraordinary showroom. Davida’s Kitchen and Tiles showroom, located in Old Towne Gaithersburg, offers inspirational displays of custom cabinetry from WoodMode and Brookhaven, as well as glass, stone and ceramic art tiles from around the world. She also works with a host of “green” building materials, including formaldehyde-free cabinetry, recycled glass and countertops.

Contact Information and Showroom Location:  435 A&B East Diamond Ave · Gaithersburg, MD 20877 · 240-361-9331 · 240-361-9351 (fax) | EMail: davida@davidaskitchenandtiles.com

Designer Cheryl Clendenon’s Guilt-Free Holiday Treat: Low-Fat Key Lime Bars

 Beautiful, traditional styled kitchen in rich,warm-toned woods designed by Cheryl Clendenon.

Award-winning kitchen and bath designer, Cheryl Clendenon, is always on the go whether working on various design projects or attending industry shows. The last time I caught up with her was in Chicago at the National Kitchen and Bath Industry Show – and from there she was off to the spring High Point Market in North Carolina, and then off to spend a few hours at the Coverings show in Orlando. So how does such a busy business woman have time to create scrumptious holiday treats? Cheryl shares her holiday culinary secret, “the low-fat key lime bars are one of my favorite quick and easy recipes for the holidays to whip up and take with you as a hostess gift! They are easy to make, taste great and look like you spent more time than you did…and they’re low fat as a bonus! ” She also offered up a delightful morsel of holiday decorating advice, “Edit, edit, edit”. As for holiday decorating in her home, Cheryl keeps it “ …simple and elegant natural greenery is my favorite with a few glittery accents….and of course, since I have kids, the homemade tree with lots of little keepsake ornaments is still the only way I do my tree!”

Low-Fat Key Lime Bars Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 package of light cream cheese 8oz
• 1 can fat free sweetened condensed milk 14 oz
• Lime zest 2  tablespoons
• Lime juice from 4 limes about half cup
• Graham crackers crushed for crust 
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar ( to mixed with graham cracker crumbs)

Instructions

1. Mix the cream cheese and sweetened condensed milk together, then add lime zest and juice to the mixture. 
2. Crush the graham crackers together and add the brown sugar.
3. Pour the cracker mixture into a greased baking pan (8×8) and press down firmly: spray the top lightly with butter flavored cooking spray, and pour the cream cheese mixture over top.
4. Bake at 350 degrees for 20 to 25 min or until springs back in middle.
5. Cool completely then refrigerate for approximately 2 hours.
6. Slice into bars and top each bar with a lime curl. 

About Cheryl Clendenon

Cheryl Kees Clendenon, a California transplant to Northwest Florida, has been in the design industry for eleven years and continues to learn something new every day.  She credits an education in the fine arts for helping to shape her perspective and how she views spatial relationships.

In Detail, Cheryl’s Pensacola, Florida-based kitchen and bath design firm, is a 3000 square foot boutique design showroom which focuses on design and furnishings for kitchens, baths and interiors. Her award-winning designs have graced the pages of over 50 national consumer magazines. She has won multiple prestigious national design awards for kitchens, baths, and closets. Cheryl’s most recent industry recognition includes being a finalist in the following design competitions: the 2010 National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA) Design Competition, Caesarstone Design Competition, Closets Magazine Design Competition, and she received a Merit award in the 2010 Kitchen and Bath Business design.

Last year at the NKBA conference in Chicago, Cheryl was a featured speaker at the Brizo Media panel event along with Fashion Designer Jason Wu, Industrial designer, Judd Lord and Kitchen and Bath News editor, Janice Costa.

Cheryl is also the editor of the popular blog, Kitchen Details and Design, where she journals in a bitingly funny, and refreshingly honest manner, her experiences as a working designer.

Contact

• Website: In Detail Kitchen and Bath
• Twitter: @indetailsays
• Facebook: In Detail on Facebook
• Blog: Kitchen Details and Design

 

Related:

• Interview with Cheryl Clendenon of In Detail
• Cheryl Clendenon’s Style Maker Look Book: Dream Bath Design

Designer Kelly Morisseau’s Yummy & Nutty Holiday Butter Tarts Recipe

 Contemporary kitchen design by Kelly Morrisseau at Cupertino Kitchen Design.

Kelly Morisseau, kitchen and bath designer, and editor of the witty and informative Kitchen Sync blog, shares her favorite holiday pastry recipe for making what is sure to be a decadent, buttery and delicious holiday treat – makes us wish every day was a holiday.

Butter Tarts Recipe

(Requires tart shell pan or muffin tin. If you don’t have one, you can buy aluminum tart shells, if available in your area, which would be placed on a cookie sheet.)

Pie Crust Ingredients

You can either use this recipe or any of your favorite pie shell recipes.You can also buy ready-made tart shells, if available in your area, or buy ready-made pie shells and cut to fit. Homemade is really the best, though:

• 2½ cups (625 ml) sifted cake-and-pastry flour (Canadians, use regular flour – gluten content is different than US)
• 1/4 cup (60 ml) granulated sugar
• ½ tsp (2 ml) salt
• 1 cup (250 ml) chilled unsalted butter (alternative is Crisco lard)
• ¾ cup (175 ml) ice water

Filling Ingredients

• 1/4 cup soft butter
• 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
• 1 pinch salt
• 1/2 cup corn syrup
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla
• 1/2 cup raisins
• 1/2 cup nuts (walnuts or pecans, chopped into small pieces)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Making pastry shells: Make pie dough in a bowl by sifting together flour, sugar and salt. With a fork or pastry blender, cut in butter until mixture resembles fine crumbs. Slowly add ice water in a trickle, and mix until the dough can be gathered up into a ball. (You’re really mixing until the dough follows the fork around the bowl.) Divide in half. Take one half and roll out onto a lightly floured surface using a floured rolling pin. Roll out and cut circles approximately 4" (I use a wide-mouth glass but if you have a big cookie cutter, it’s a bonus); fit dough circles into tart shell or muffin tin (ungreased) and set aside.
3. Making filling:Mix the first 4 filling ingredients in a medium sized bowl until creamy. Mix in egg and vanilla. Stir in raisins and nuts last, or drop 6-8 each  (or more) into each tart shell.
4. Fill shells: Fill the tart shells with the filling mixture to 2/3rd full only (you don’t want the filling to boil over unless you like scrubbing pas for a long time.)
5. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes until filling is light-to-medium brown. How long you bake them depends on if you like them runny or slightly chewy – I like mine caramelized around the edges, so I bake them until they’re a rich golden brown. Don’t let them get too dark or grandma’s dentures will come out.

About Kelly Morisseau

Kelly is a second-generation Certified Master Kitchen and Bath Designer (CMKBD) and a Certified Interior Designer (CID) in California.When she’s not working on her current day job at Main Street Kitchens, an award-winning design/build firm, she studies design, trends, and generational behavior for her blog, Kitchen Sync.

She understands and empathizes with homeowners and the challenges they face as they remodel their homes. As the sub-title of her blog states, “Some people jog to get their heart-rates up; I design kitchens.”

Contact

Surreal Sustainable Kitchen by IKEA: SURREALISTIKA Sculpture

“SURREALISTIKA” is IKEA’s artistic homage to their futuristic vision- one that gracefully intertwines design, usability and sustainability- for the one room in our home, the kitchen, where creativity, inspiration, and the joys of home life and family are centered.

Bringing fantasy and imagination to life, the [SURREALISTIKA] sculpture incorporates the natural beauty of the Silver Birch tree intertwined with elements of an everyday kitchen. It depicts a surreal vision of the future when environmental concerns will be ever more at the core of kitchen design.

Designer Andie Day’s Holiday Decorating & Entertaining Tips

Serene, beautiful kitchen design by award-winning designer and Aging-in-Place specialist, Andie Day.

The always elegant and stylish, Boston-based designer, Andie Day, shares the following fabulous and chic holiday decorating advice:

• Whether you envision holidays filled with elegantly decorated rooms or radiating exquisite simplicity the key to success is an organized home. We suggest tackling this sometimes overwhelming task with an objective friend or hiring a home organizer. Simplicity is conducive to an improved quality of life for you and your family.
• Layer scents throughout home.  My favorite candle is Diptyque French candles with their beautiful and long lasting fragrances. The candles last about 50 hours making it a better value than many other candle collections.  (Andie’s favorite Diptyque candle scent is, Figuier "Verte" / "Green" Fig Tree.)
• Add a little sparkle using glinting crystal, polished silver and festive ornaments.

Andie also shares two of her family’s favorite holiday recipes: German Coffee Braid, and, an equally delicious sounding, Santa’s Toffee Chip Cookies. “ Both [recipes] are time consuming but well worth it “, according to Andie. She explains, “I must confess that I’m not much of a cook – I do rely heavily on my husband for this. While he’s bringing the turkey to perfection I work toward designing a memorable martini…White Blizzard Chocolate Martini. “ (martini recipe also included below).

German Coffee Braid Family Holiday Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 package yeast package = 2 1/4 teaspoons
• 2 tablespoons warm water
• ¾ cup scalded milk
• ¼ cup butter
• ¼ cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 egg
• 3 cups flour

Ingredients for Filling

• Soft Butter
• ½ cup sugar
• 1-1/2 teaspoons cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg

DIRECTIONS

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Dissolve yeast in warm water. Pour hot milk over butter, sugar and salt. Let cool to luke-warm. Add yeast, egg and ½ flour (or 1-1/2c) Beat until smooth then add remaining flour. Knead. Let rise, punch down and let rise again. Divide into three equal parts. Spread each with butter and filling. Roll the three pieces of braid together. Let rise. Brush top with butter and sprinkle with spiced sugar. Bake for 30 minutes.(Recipe origin unknown)

Santa’s Toffee Chip Cookies Family Holiday Recipe

Ingredients

• 2-1/2 c flour
• ½ tsp. salt
• 1 tsp. baking soda
• 1 cup butter
• 1 cup English toffee bits
• 2 eggs
• ¾ c brown sugar
• ¾ c granulated sugar
• 2 tsp. vanilla
• 7 ounces of Kraft caramels
• 3 tablespoons of milk
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• Walnuts for garnish

DIRECTIONS

Preheat oven to 325 degrees.

Stir flour, salt and baking soda together and then set aside. Cream butter with both sugars until fluffy. Add vanilla and eggs. Add dry ingredients to creamed mixture, mix well. Add toffee bits. Take two healthy tablespoons of dough and roll into a ball. Place 4 balls on an ungreased cookie sheet and bake 10 minutes.

While the cookies are cooling, melt 7 ounces of Kraft caramels with three tablespoons of milk over medium heat. In another pan, melt one cup of chocolate semi-sweet chips over low heat. After the cookies have cooled, spread the melted caramels over the cookies, and then the melted chocolate over the caramel.

Garnish with crushed walnuts. Makes 12 huge cookies.

(Obtained from Salem Evening News)

White Blizzard Chocolate Martini Recipe

Ingredients

• 4 ounces of Absolut Vanilla vodka
• 1 ounce of clear Creme de Cacao
• 2 ounce of Godet White Chocolate liqueur
• 1 teaspoon of coconut flakes
• 2 freezing martini glasses

DIRECTIONS

Add the vodka to a shaker half full of cracked ice. Shake vigorously for a full minute. Add the white chocolate liqueur, and Creme de Cacao. Swirl the shaker for another full minute, and then let it rest for a minute.

Strain your martini into the freezing martini glasses. Each glass gets half of the coconut flakes.

Stir each martini gently to start the blizzard!

(Recipe obtained from Group Recipes. Obtained from Salem Evening News)

About Andie Day

Andie Day is a national award-winning interior designer whose inventive solutions have been featured in, Kitchen and Bath Ideas®, Washington Post, New England Home, Design New England and in NECN’s inspirational television series: New England Dream House.

Andie Day is CAPS certified and has crafted her niche as an Aging-in-Place specialist. Ms. Day has expanded her expertise and passion for combining safety and fine design through her philosophy, DESIGN FOR LIFE™.

CONTACT

• Website: Andie Day Design
• Twitter: @andieday
• Blog: Andie Day Design Blog

Interior Designer Julie Bova’s Holiday Recipe: Peppermint Ice Cream Pie

Kitchen Details:  Julie designed this kitchen, in a house located on an incredible horse farm, that proves attention to detail matters. Some of the material details such as the  Knotty Alder,Stone and Butcher block and an elegant Onyx backsplash that reflects the light capture the warm, welcoming nature of this kitchen.

At The Decorating Diva, LLC we are quite fortunate to know so many talented and creative designers, and Julie Bova is one of those designers we absolutely love. Besides Julie’s extraordinary design skills, she has a huge heart, and is always ready to generously give of her time and gifts to help others. We will always appreciate Julie’s efforts to raise awareness and funds to assist with pediatric cancer in support of the beautiful Layla Grace.

Julie shares some quick, and easy holiday decorating ideas for your fireplace mantel and a refreshingly, chilly and  minty holiday pie recipe, Peppermint Ice Cream Pie, that we think you will love.

Julie’s Peppermint Ice Cream Pie Recipe

Ingredients

• 18 Oreo Cookies
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1/3 cup melted butter
• Small can of evaporated milk
• 2 squares of unsweetened chocolate
• 1 Quart Peppermint Ice Cream (with red & green candies) softened

DIRECTIONS

Combine butter and Oreo cookies in the food processor. Mix and press the cookie and butter mixture into the bottom of a 9″ pie plate and freeze.

Spoon the softened Peppermint ice cream on top of the oreo crust and freeze.

Melt 2 squares of unsweetened chocolate with 1/2 cup sugar, 1 tablespoon of butter, and the small can of evaporated milk. Cook the mixture until thick and cool, stirring occasionally.

Apply to top of pie and freeze.

Julie’s Holiday Decorating Tip for Fireplace Mantels

Julie tells us that she “Love[s] using lots of Greenery, Willow Twigs, Pine Cones and a touch of color. Always try to find beautiful ribbon! Lots of great resources are now online if you plan ahead”.

About Julie Browning Bova

Renowned Indiana-based interior designer, Julie Browning Bova, is the owner of the eponymous design firm Julie Bova Interior Design.  With over 20 years as a respected interior designer, Julie has worked on design projects ranging from residential endeavors to commercial and public works.

Using travels and experience as a touchstone for inspiration, along with her passion for design, Art & Architecture.  Julie’s commitment to her clients and projects never waivers.

She has been featured in numerous design publications, and thoroughly enjoys throwing herself into anything design related.

Currently, Julie Bova Interior Design is working on numerous interior design projects, overseeing new home construction, and continuing to pursue work in care/assisted living.

In addition to working on her design blog, Paisley, Plaid and Read, and her popular Twitter site @jbint, Julie loves to give her time to the industry.  Last year she participated in Design Industries Foundation Fighting AIDS (DIFFA) Dining by Design 2009 held at the Merchandise Mart in Chicago.

Read our feature on Julie and view her Interior Design Portfolio.

Contact

• Website: Julie Bova Interior Design
• Blog: Paisley, Plaid and Read
• Twitter: @jbint

Kitchen Designer Sarah Lloyd’s Citrusy Holiday Desert Recipe

  Craftswoman inspired and styled kitchen design by Sarah Lloyd.

When we asked our favorite kitchen designers to submit a photo of their most beloved kitchen design project along with a cherished holiday recipe, we knew that Sarah would submit something as cheery, and fun as her personality. And she didn’t disappoint, Sarah tells us, “my recipe is for a lemony, creamy dessert concoction – it tastes light and fresh, perfect after a heavy meal”. And even better than a yummy, uplifting holiday dessert? Well, one that requires little effort (heaven sent for those of us who prefer to keep our time in the kitchen to a minimum), “.. and no cooking is required if you use a bought cake. I like to use a lemon cake for this recipe.”, reveals Sarah.

Boodle’s Orange Fool Recipe

Ingredients

• Thin strips of sponge cake
• Grated rind and juice of 2 lemons
• Grated rind and juice of 4 oranges
• 3 oz superfine sugar
• 20 fl oz (600 ml) double or heavy whipping cream, whipped softly. ( It tastes better if you can find cream that is pasteurized, but not ultra-pasteurized. Fresh from the cow would probably be better still, if you could manage it.)

Instructions

1. Line a deep serving dish with the thin strips of sponge.
2. Mix together the grated rind and juice of the lemons and oranges with the caster sugar, and stir until dissolved.
3. Thoroughly incorporate into the mixture half of the whipped cream, and pour into the sponge  lining.
4. Chill for several hours
5. Serve with the remaining whipped cream piped on top

(Originally by Glynn Christian, Sainsbury’s Cookery Classics, 1985)

About Sarah Lloyd

Sarah is a California-based kitchen and bath designer that believes in the importance of personal expression and imagination in designing interiors, and in our responsibility to use our planet’s resources wisely and sustainably. She designs kitchens and bathrooms that work hard and make you happy, every day.

Sarah’s delightful blog Kitchen Clarity provides a creative resource for design lovers in which she shares: design inspiration discoveries from all over the world, her reflections on day-to-day life as a designer, and offers a little light relief from time-to-time.

CONTACT

• Web/Blog: Kitchen Clarity
• Twitter: @ClarityK