Here’s my list of musts:

1. Layout is key. This is the time to revisit if the existing layout is the best, make sure you have a very functional work triangle and that the views from the other rooms are great (a fridge doesn’t make a great focal point!). Also, consider what your needs are: bar sink? an extra dishwasher? warming oven?

A galley kitchen was transformed into a very compact U-shape for more countertop space

2. The kitchen should relate to the architecture of the house. Even if you plan to live in the house forever, investing money into the kitchen should always have a good return if you plan to sell. Most buyers don’t look at a kitchen in terms of what they would do to it unless the house is a fixer upper.

3. Appliances can be the largest purchase in a kitchen or come very close after cabinetry. I don’t like to get married to a single brand, even if the handles are not exactly the same, I look for unique features I need in every single appliance I choose and often end up with 2 to 3 brands at the most.

Mix of appliances were a must for this super functional chef kitchen.

4. The choice of cabinetry is the single largest design statement in a kitchen, I usually go for the opposites, light cabinetry and dark counter tops or the opposite. Contrast makes a kitchen more dimensional and interesting.

Dark cabinetry and lighter countertops, in this case the island is different from perimeter cabinets

5. Never underestimate the importance of good lighting! With fluorescent lighting having come such a long way recently in terms of the choices available, it’s easier than ever to be both energy efficient and have bulbs that reflect true colors. Under counter task lighting is an absolute must and make sure it’s hidden, this should not be an afterthought.

6. The backsplash is the place to go for it! It’s not a huge area and the right material can give a lot of character to the kitchen, pick something you love. Most often than not, for me the backsplash is the starting point of the design palette.

The warm greys in this backsplash were the inspiration for the whole palette.

7. Accessories are the final touch to any room, the kitchen is no exception. Leave some room in the budget to warm up the space with some cool accessories, some of my favorites are: fabric or woven shades, area rugs, vases and always fresh flowers, fruit or vegetables on display!

A very colorful rug is the perfect punch to this neutral kitchen.

Not many of us have the luxury of transforming a whole pool house into a spa, like we did in the 2006 Pasadena Showcase House. More and more, master bathrooms are becoming mini spas, totally equipped to take away the daily stress and become nurturing cocoons. 

The Spa at 2006 Pasadena Showcase House

Our 10 must haves features for an in-home spa are: shower with body jets, deep soaking tub, a comfortable lounge chair, plenty of storage for linens and toilettries, soothing colors, natural stone surfaces, some glass tile, warm wood cabinetry, the softest robe and a Jo Malone candle! 

Kohler's digital showering system in "Her" bathroom at the 2008 Pasadena Showcase House

Soaking tub at client's residence in Pasadena

Soothing colors, glass accent and wood cabinetry

Lounge area in the 2006 Pasadena Showcase House

Natural stone surfaces and the softest robe.

Plenty of storage in this custom built cabinet at the showcase spa

My favorite Jo Malone scent is Lime, Basil & Mandarin!

My favorite dining room

 With only about 10 weeks left for the holiday season to start, many of my clients are asking for dining room makeovers. Two of my favorite tricks are paint and custom tablecloths, two changes that are relatively low cost  for the amount of wow they can deliver! Aerin Lauder’s Manhattan dining room (featured in Elle Decor) is a perfect example. Nothing says personality more than a bold color on the walls and great pattern on the table…

When life is too hectic, nothing better than soothing colors!

A splash of color and pattern are guaranteed to bring life into a room!

I can’t imagine living in a house with no color, with white walls or everything too neutral… However, I really can’t live with COLOR in every room, some areas need to be calm and soothing (master bedroom, bathrooms, office) and others can take more than a punch (family room, dining room, entry, kids rooms). That’s why when I look at color trends, I’m drawn to two complete opposites, from textured soft light grey, blues and greens to bold, deep purples, pink and oranges. Sherwin-Williams info and pictures.