KDW Home / Kitchen Design Works

Where do you find design inspiration?

While the Internet has become a quick and easy resource for all inspiration, I make it a habit to draw inspiration from the “everyday” and be keenly aware of my surroundings in every environment.    I am drawn to all sorts of design, from fashion to hotels to restaurants. I think it is fun to take a simple detail from another finished product (for example: a shoe design) and translate that into a unique feature element in a kitchen design.

How do you approach the design process?

After meeting with a potential client for the first time, I start with the layout right away.  I love the process of taking the client’s wish list and, like a puzzle, piecing everything together to create a functional space.  Once a working floor plan is determined, then I dive into what the space is going to look like and begin the process of making finish selection suggestions including cabinetry, hardware and countertops.

What is your biggest challenge as a designer/architect?

My biggest challenge as a designer is time management.   At KDW Home, our design team is set up with “turnkey” project management. That means that we are involved with the job from start to finish, including initial client contact, field measurements, design and specifying, pricing the job, ordering the cabinetry and overall project management.   It can be quite a challenge to manage multiple projects going on at the same time at all different steps in the process. The benefit to the client is one go-to resource that “owns” their kitchen project and is committed to the very best result.

What does the Sub-Zero and Wolf Kitchen Design Contest mean to you?

The Sub-Zero and Wolf Kitchen Design Contest is the most prestigious kitchen design contest in the industry.   It is a true honor to be a regional winner and to be recognized by my peers for my design work.  It is amazing to win this award so early in my career and it is great motivation to keep doing great design.

What are some of the current design trends?

Modern classic style. Less of the ultra sleek and more materials that keep clean lines, but make the space feel more warm and homey. Wallpaper (making a resurgence again!) More open shelving, fewer wall cabinets. Use of  reclaimed wood planking on countertops, island ends and backs, walls, and range hoods

Where do you see kitchen design going in the next 5 years?

A heavy focus on technology will drive the leading edge of kitchen design.  Computer programs are making the use of 3D computer aided design easier and less time consuming.  I believe that clients, especially those in a high end market, will expect plans to include both 2D and 3D CAD drawings with the 3D already being photo realistic. I think these visualization tools will help close a job faster with the client being able to preview every aspect of the project.

I have seen an increased focus on interior cabinet accessories as websites like Houzz and Pinterest become even more popular.  Clients have thousands of up-to-date photos at their fingertips and want the latest and greatest kitchen gadget.  I am finding that many of these requests are for the hottest interior cabinet organization and functional accessories.