| Author: Morris Collins |
We've all seen the exquisitely-designed, high-end kitchens in magazines or on television. They may have the latest gadgets, such as digital ovens or refrigerators with internet access. But, don't you wonder how they really cook in that kitchen?
'Visiting trade shows, I see many products with a 'WOW' factor,' said Leslie Segrete, television designer, national home improvement radio host, 'Today Show' contributor and graduate of the French Culinary Institute. 'But when I think about the products I want in my own kitchen, they're not always my first choices.'
Instead, Segrete recommends investing money in the 'workhorse' items of the kitchen -- sinks, faucets and countertops. 'The key to kitchen design is to make it work for you,' she said. 'You want to make sure the products you choose are functional, fashionable and easy to clean.'
To create the kitchen of your dreams, Segrete named these four products as 'must-haves' for their functionality and quality design:
Sink your Money into a Sink
When it comes to sinks, they are not all created equal. Kitchen sinks come in a variety of materials including stainless steel, granite and quartz, as well as numerous sizes and shapes. For chefs looking to blend style with function and quality, Segrete recommends Moen's new Lancelot Professional Sinks. These 16-gauge stainless steel sinks offer a visually-appealing undermount installation, 10-inch deep bowls and angled sidewalls for easy clean-up. Plus, they are available in four different size configurations to meet the needs of every cook.
'The depth of this sink makes it easier to fit large pots and pans,' said Segrete. 'And the angled walls are easy to keep clean while giving it a very upscale look.'
Focus on the Faucets
Sometimes called the 'jewelry of the sink,' the faucet can add the finishing touch of style to the kitchen. However, when choosing a faucet, be sure to find one with not only high style, but functionality. When it comes to meeting both criteria, Segrete's solution is high arc kitchen faucets. In addition to the beautiful lines provided by the high arc spout, the added height makes it simple to fit large pots and pans under the water stream.
'Moen offers a variety of exquisitely-designed high arc faucets, such as their Vestige kitchen faucet,' said Segrete. 'Plus, the line is available in a variety of finishes, including new Pewter, to coordinate with today's kitchen appliances."
Add a Splash of Personality in the Backsplash
The countertop is the workhorse of the kitchen -- but don't forget the backsplash -- it's just as important. Not only will the backsplash protect your walls from food splashes, it also gives you the opportunity to add some of personality to your gourmet kitchen. For a totally unique and easily cleanable backsplash, try customizing your own mix of glass mosaic tiles. Segrete recommends Susan Jablon mosaics, which offer numerous tile colors and patterns for nearly endless design opportunities.
'Don't forget about the grout!' Segrete adds. 'Using a variety of colors of tiles and grout you can create specialized patterns that are uniquely you.'
Don't Sweat the Mess
Cooking in your gourmet kitchen will be much more enjoyable if you aren't thinking of the clean-up. But Segrete won't trust her delicate crystal and dishes to just any dishwasher. She recommends Bosch dishwashers, since they are highly engineered to operate in a quiet and efficient way. 'No matter what has been baked on my cookware, it comes off easily without pre-rinsing!' Segrete says. 'And, they operate so quietly you might even wonder if it is on.' Plus, Bosch dishwashers operate efficiently offering both water and energy savings. They are available in a variety of finishes to meet any design or budget.
EDITOR'S NOTE: Timeless designs that reflect good taste. Faucets and fixtures that are livable and enduring. These are just some of the reasons why Moen Incorporated is the #1 faucet brand in North America. In addition to stylish and affordable faucets, Moen also offers residential and commercial sinks and a full range of tub and showering packages. Moen brands include ShowHouse by Moen, Creative Specialties International and the Cleveland Faucet Group. ShowHouse offers high-end, luxury faucets and accessories to consumers with discriminating tastes. Creative Specialties International offers complete suites of decorative bath accessories including innovative bath safety products that are fashionablenot institutional. The Cleveland Faucet Group manufactures affordable, durable faucets for the multi-family housing market. |
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To learn more about California wines and the California Wine Club, call (800) 777-4443 or visit www.cawineclub.com. - ARA |
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