An Eye for Design
HERE ARE A FEW OTHER THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN DESIGNING A KITCHEN , ACCORDING TO LOCAL PROS .
While a colorful rug can add personality , they ’ re a tripping hazard and difficult to keep clean , says Claudia Morales of Claudia Interior Design . But if you really want something under your bare feet while cooking , opt for seagrass over wool . “ It ’ s organic , and you can take it outside and shake it out ,” she says .
Open shelves are trending and fit any design aesthetic . Andrew Flashman of Flashman Design Inc . is currently working on a project that calls for open shelves all along the cooking area . “ It looks wonderful and opens the space out ,” he says . How practical they are in terms of dusting and cleaning depends on where your kitchen is located .
A second kitchen is a growing trend among Austin Tsosie ’ s clients . His team at Euro Kitchen and Design Corp . suggests using a “ back ” kitchen as a place for the family to prepare meals , while keeping the front kitchen clean and open for entertaining .
Wood countertops are having their day , but local experts agree that they ’ re highly susceptible to scratches and spills . For durability that ’ s also beautiful , consider natural stone or manmade materials that can resist nicks , knocks and heat .
Top : Euro Kitchen and Design Corp . emphasizes luxury and timeless styles rather than fads , but clients have been requesting modern kitchens with clean lines lately . Bottom : This kitchen by Julie Laughton Design Build features custom-made cabinets that resemble furniture for a unique look .
LAGUNA BEACH MAGAZINE 59