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DECEMBER 2016
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Editor’s Note Calendar Before & After: Heights Kitchen Makeover Before & After: Master Bath Redo in Cypress Project: Kitchen & Bath Task Lighting Deal Hunter: What to Buy This Month Editor’s Picks: Kitchen & Bath Gadgets Gardening: Holiday Plant Favorites as Gifts Pet of the Month: Olaf
58 ON THE COVER: EKLEKTIK INTERIORS DESIGNED THIS STUNNING WOODLANDS-AREA KITCHEN TO BE BEAUTIFUL AND PRACTICAL. www.EklektikInteriors.com
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A Tale of Three Kitchens Kitchen & Bath Tips from the Pros Bathrooms on Parade
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THE KITCHEN ISN'T WHAT IT USED TO BE NEITHER ARE WE.
EDITOR’S NOTE
There’s no place like home.
The lifestyles and preferences of today’s consumer have inspired us to reimagine the kitchen. With innovations like the first Hands-free Autofill water dispenser, the first dishwasher with 102 cleaning jets and a clean modern appearance, the GE kitchen is more intelligent, intuitive and beautiful than ever. l geappliances.com
ACCEPTANCE APPLIANCE CENTER, INC. Authorized As-Is Dealer 6765 N. Sam Houston Pkwy. W. • Suite 200 Houston, TX 77064 • 281-955-0861 www.acceptanceappliance.com
reimagining home
Houston House & Home, that is, where I’m honored and delighted to return, now as editor. I follow the hard-to-fill shoes of lovely ladies before me, including the late Linda Barth, Sandra Cook and, most recently, Susan Fox, and I thank them for guiding HH&H in their own beautiful ways. It’s a privilege to join this talented hallof-fame-worthy group, as well as the hard-working and dedicated staff, writers and of course, our loyal – and new – advertisers. The timing is incredible, as HH&H celebrates its 22nd year in publication. Wow! The magazine’s longevity speaks to everyone I’ve mentioned and to a host of dedicated readers. That’s more than 65,000 of you every single month. I personally thank you for your continuing support. This month, we turn our focus to everything kitchen and bath with our annual “Kitchen & Bath Planning Guide.” So get ready for a K&B extravaganza. Check it out: Inspiring HOUSTON
PUBLISHER ........................Mike Harrison, Ph.D. ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER ........Susie Reisenbigler EDITOR ......................................Barbara Kuntz CONTRIBUTING WRITERS ..........Barbara Canetti,
Over 30 Years of Experience on Residential & Commercial Properties. • Dramatic Uplighting • Delicate Moonlighting • Feature Lighting
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........Lindsay Canright, Marsha Canright, Linda Gay CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS ......Ben Hill,
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..............................Miro Dvorscak, Michael Hunter, ..............................Anthony Rathbun, Julie Soefer ART DIRECTOR ............................Robert Coplin SR. ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE ........Frances Dowling ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE ....................Karen Sims
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kitchens and baths created by award-winning architects and interior designers, an amazing Heights-area kitchen remodel (you won’t BELIEVE the before-and-after results!) and so many “Tips from the Pros” you’ll definitely want to hang on to this issue for future reference. “Deal Hunter” again leads you to the best buys in the stores and online, with a special focus on K&B. And “Project” thoroughly covers task lighting for these most popular rooms of our homes. Don’t forget to look at our “Editor’s Picks” on kitchen and bath gadgets. I know I had a blast scouring for fun and functional ideas I thought you might like, too. Of course, our friends at The Arbor Gate continue to share their expertise in the regular gardening column. “Pet of the Month?” Well, you’ll want to take Olaf home with you today. Better adopt him before I do. Happy reading…and cheers, Barbara Blue Thumb Inc., dba Houston House & Home ("HH&H"), is a news magazine with emphasis on interior design and remodeling. HH&H does not knowingly accept false or misleading advertising or editorial content, nor does HH&H or its staff assume responsibility should such advertising or editorial content appear in any publication. HH&H has not independently tested any services or products advertised herein and has not verified claims made by its advertisers regarding those services or products. HH&H makes no warranties or representations and assumes no liability for any claims regarding those services or products or claims made by advertisers. Readers are advised to consult with the advertiser and/or other home repair and renovation professionals regarding the suitability of an advertiser’s products. No reproduction is permitted without the written consent of the Publisher. Copyright 2016, all rights reserved. HH&H is distributed at most Houston area Randalls and HEB stores.
P.O. Box 131845 • Houston, Texas 77219 (713) 523-6523 • info@houseandhomeonline.com
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10 house& home | December 2016 | www.houstonhouseandhome.net
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12 house& home | December 2016 | www.houstonhouseandhome.net
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COMPILED BY LINDSAY CANRIGHT
DECEMBER 2016
ABOVE: Enjoy holiday-themed activities at Christmas Village at Bayou Bend from Dec. 10-Jan. 1, 2017. BELOW: The 8th Annual Gingerbread Build-Off takes place Dec. 10 at City Hall’s Hermann Square Park.
Design/Interiors DEC. 6: 9TH ANNUAL DECK THE TABLES Those that love setting a holiday table will delight in The Houston Design Center’s annual Deck the Tables event, which showcases tablescapes by the city’s top designers. 713-864-2660, www.thehoustondesign center.com DEC. 8: AUTHORS IN ARCHITECTURE, 5:30-7:30 p.m. This talk centers around one of Houston’s most iconic monuments, the Astrodome. Nicknamed the Eighth Wonder of the World, this Texas-sized vision of the future was an unthinkable feat of engineering when it opened in 1965 with luxury suites, theater seating and the first animated scoreboard. 713-520-0155, www.aiahouston.org DEC. 9-10: CHRISTMAS HOME TOUR, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. on Friday with candlelight tour from 6-9 p.m.; 10 a.m.-4 p.m. on Saturday
With the help of professional decorators and florists, a selection of Fort Bend County residents will deck out their homes with holiday trimmings and open them to the public during the second weekend of December. Proceeds benefit CASA, Child Advocates of Fort Bend County. 281-344-5108, www.cafb.org DEC. 10: TOWERS & TREES DOWNTOWN WALKING TOUR, 10 a.m. Towers & Trees explores the magnificent architecture between Hermann Square and Discovery Green and the changing dynamics of downtown Houston. Topics of note include the partially realized civic center plan surrounding Hermann Square, internationally recognized icons from the skyscraper boom of the ’70s and ’80s and Discovery Green, a catalyst for development in the city’s center. 713-520-0155, www.aiahouston.org
DEC. 11: THE BLUE TRIANGLE GARDEN CLUB CHRISTMAS TOUR OF HOMES, 1-5 p.m. The Blue Triangle Garden Club will host the 55th Annual MacGregor Area Annual Christmas Tour of Homes “Yuletide Treasures.” The tour features complimentary parking and trolley transportation to each of the three featured homes at 3120 S. MacGregor Way, 3718 Parkwood Drive and 4023 Charleston. 713927-6468, www.bluetrianglegardenclub.org
Events DEC. 4: BLOGGER CLOSET SALE, 1-3 p.m. The fashions featured on Houston style blogs will be on display and up for grabs during the Blogger Closet Sale at the Houston Arboretum & Nature Center. Hunt for chic finds from stylish Instagrammers like Sophia Emm (@itssofiaemm), Chimee Ahaiwe (@_aroundthewaygyrl) and Haley Freytag (@Redrhinestone). www.houstonfashionbloggers.com
DEC. 10: 8TH ANNUAL GINGERBREAD BUILDOFF, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. More than 30 teams will compete at the eighth annual Gingerbread Build-Off at City Hall's Hermann Square, creating their masterpieces using 100-percent edible materials. Some 3,000 spectators are expected to attend to cheer on participants, play in the kids' construction zone and rub elbows with Santa Claus. 713520-0155, www.aiahouston.org
EDITOR’S NOTE: Please send all calendar items to info@houseandhomeonline.com by second Fridays for the following month’s issue. 14 house& home | December 2016 | www.houstonhouseandhome.net
DEC. 10: TAMALE FESTIVAL HOUSTON, noon10 p.m. Celebrate one of the Southwest’s hallmark holiday foods—the tamale. Delight your palate with the plethora of tamales on offer and enjoy a rousing schedule of live music. www.tamalefestivalhouston.com DEC 10-11: HERITAGE SOCIETY CANDLELIGHT TOUR, 3-9 p.m. Saturday, 4-8 p.m. Sunday Embrace the spirit of the season at The Heritage Society's annual Candlelight Tour, which will take place at its headquarters in Sam Houston Park. Buildings will be decorated for the season as carolers join voices and historic characters tell stories of the past. 713-655-1912, www.heritagesociety.org DEC. 11: SIENNA LIGHTS, 6:30-8:45 p.m. Take a ride on a classic trolley while enjoying the dazzling light displays in Sienna Plantation. www.siennafamily.org DEC. 21: FAMILY ART STUDIO, 4:30-6 p.m., 6:30-8 p.m. Head over to the Pearl Fincher Museum of Fine Arts for a hands-on studio art experience. Just in time for the holidays, the week’s featured project will be quilt star ornaments. 281-376-6322, www.pearlmfa.org
American Institute of Graphic Artists will host its annual outdoor fair. Featuring the work of local artists, artisans, crafters and creatives, this one-day event allows Houstonians the ultimate opportunity to buy local. www.designcrafthtx.com DEC. 3: KATY OLD FASHIONED CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL, 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Located in Historic Downtown Katy, this Christmas market will feature produce, arts and crafts, antiques, jewelry, gifts, carolers, food and entertainment. Texans who are young and young at heart will enjoy the 50,000 pounds of snow hauled in for the occasion. 281-391-1993, www.katymarketday.com DEC. 9-11: GERMAN CHRISTMAS MARKET & FESTIVAL Celebrate the state’s German heritage at downtown Tomball’s Weihnachtsmarkt. There will be 175 vendors selling everything from arts and crafts to antiques, plenty of pints and four live music stages. Tap your feet to the musical sounds of performers like The Chardon Polka Band, Chris Rybak and Yodel Blitz, or get into the festive spirit with the sounds of strolling Christmas carolers. 281-379-6844, www.tomballgermanfest.org
ESCAPE TO THE MOVIES in the comfort of your own home.
Holiday Markets DEC. 1-30: POP SHOP AMERICA BOUTIQUE, 11 a.m.-7 p.m. To celebrate the season and all things handmade, the Pop Shop America Boutique will be open all month long selling T-shirts, art, jewelry and lots of fun holiday items. www.popshopamerica.com DEC. 3: DESIGNCRAFT HOLIDAY MARKET, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Houston branch of the
DEC. 10-JAN. 1: CHRISTMAS VILLAGE AT BAYOU BEND, 5:30-10 p.m., last entry at 9 p.m. Held on 14 acres of gardens nestled in beautiful River Oaks, this year's Christmas Village is more exciting than ever. Get in the holiday spirit with carolers, Santa, a snowball-play area, holiday treats and art-making activities—and on eight nights—a live reindeer. 713639-7750, www.mfah.org
Let us design and build the custom home cinema you have always dreamed of. Our team specializes in creating unique custom home cinemas that are beautiful, engineered for the ultimate audio/visual experience and utilize the latest in 4K and Dolby Atmos Surround Sound. If you’re building a new home or remodeling, a custom home cinema from Kasabe Designs will provide years of entertainment value and enhance the value of your home. Call today to speak with our design team about your home cinema!
281-712-2659 • sales@kasabedesigns.com • www.kasabedesigns.com 15
WEEKENDS UNTIL DEC. 16: BAYBROOK MALL HOLIDAY ARTISAN MARKET, 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, noon-9 p.m. Sundays Discover an eclectic mix of products made by Texas' most talented artisans at the Baybrook Mall Holiday Artisan Market. From chic clothing and custom jewelry to fair trade woodcrafts, gourmet sauces and vintage décor, there's plenty to dazzle and delight holiday shoppers. 281-488-4627, www.baybrookmall.com
Out of Town DEC. 10: CHRISTMAS AT WINEDALE, ROUND TOP, noon-4 p.m. Celebrate the season at Winedale with a mid-19th century folk life reenactment featuring stagecoach rides, hayrides, mini-horse carriages, spinners, weavers, wood carvers, quilters, a blacksmith, outdoor cooking, butter churning, music, square dancing, storytellers, crafts for children and more. Historic houses in the Winedale Historical Complex will be decorated for the season in period fashion. 979-278-3530, www.roundtop.org
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16 house& home | December 2016 | www.houstonhouseandhome.net
DEC. 10: CHRISTMAS ON THE BRAZOS, WASHINGTON, 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Visitors will go back in time as they experience the historic Christmas traditions of Texas in the 1800s. Held at Washington on the Brazos State Historic Site, Christmas on the Brazos offers holiday activities for all ages including period music, craft making, readings, food samplings and an artisan market. The day culminates in the park’s popular
Candlelight Christmas event at Barrington Living History Farm featuring vignettes of Texian frontier festivities with music, musket firing, dancing and a candlelit tour of the farm. 936-878-2214, www.wheretexasbecame texas.org DEC. 10: WINTER'S EVE FESTIVAL ON THE SQUARE, WIMBERLY, 5-10 p.m. Take care of some lastminute shopping as you enjoy the lights and music of the season on Wimberley Square. Shops will be open late for the occasion, and there will be live entertainment including a visit from Santa, who will arrive at 6 p.m. www.wimberley merchants.com DEC. 16: CHRISTMAS AT BUGGY BARN MUSEUM, BLANCO, 6-8 p.m. Held at Buggy Barn Museum, this fun festival has all the trappings of a cowboy Christmas: Chuckwagon chili and beans, hot chocolate, cowboy poetry, live music, carriage rides and more. 512825-6284, www.buggybarnpinemooretown.com DEC. 17-18: COWBOY CHRISTMAS MARKET, BOERNE Finish your last-second Christmas shopping at the Cowboy Christmas Market Days in Boerne. Hundreds of festive booths will display everything from collectibles to modern goodies. Scrumptious food and live music will also be for the taking as locals and visitors celebrate the holiday Hill Country-style. 210844-8193, www.boernemarket days.com
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Old World Elegance
NEW CUSTOM HOME COMBINES ELEGANCE AND COMFORT BY BARBARA CANETTI • PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANTHONY RATHBUN
The “Design/Build Advantage:” When clients hire Monte Smith to design their new home, they also can hire the builder, contractor, decorator and finisher – all at once.
18 house& home | December 2016 | www.houstonhouseandhome.net
Smith, owner of Monte Smith Designs and Mastercraft Homes, tackles each project with an eye on efficiency and creativity, and provides his customers access to his team of professionals to help them get the homes of their dreams. “I want my customers to be happy with the end project. I want to satisfy my customers because I understand them,” he says. For 35 years Smith has been in the house building business. He started as a carpenter’s helper and taught himself the trade by learning from others and talking to professionals. He can manage a construction site, build to specifications, modify as needed, but his passion has always been in the design – the first step in the process. “When I talk to my clients, I find out their needs, their wants and their budget, and then I go from there,” he says. “By listening, I can venture out with the plans and also change them as we go along, if needed. “So many things you do may need to be changed once you see them in real time. We are flexible and we can adapt,” he says. “The design doesn’t stop with what’s on the paper – it is all about what the customer wants.” Sometimes the client wants to include something unique or expensive into the building of their home. Smith sometimes will refer these wants as “Gold Monkeys.” As a designer, he feels it is his responsibility to discuss these options. If my client wants Gold Monkeys hanging from a tree, we will talk about it and after we look at all options and they still want the monkeys, then they will have them,”he says. Even as a youth, Smith says he was labeled as “creative.” He was once ask by a teacher why he was coloring outside the box. “I told the teacher I didn't see the lines at all.” Probably the best testament to Smith’s ability and professionalism is his customers – and his repeat customers. “I have one client for whom I've designed four houses. Each time their needs change – starter home, growing family, growing again and then empty nest – we’ve been able to create for them the kind of homes they need,” he says. He says he prides himself with creating high functioning homes, which meet his high standards for quality and form. He envisions the flow of the house in the design and carefully monitors how and where light enters the rooms. He has a stable of professional contractors that he turns to for every project. “One thing you learn as a project manager is who NOT to hire. We have very high standards and only use subs that follow our instructions
and meet our standards,” he says. He works with a highly knowledgeable colleague and trusted interior designer, Sherry Smith (no relation) of Interiors by Sherry, for advice on colors, finishes and furnishings. She works closely with the clients to find out exactly what they need. Sherry Smith, who has been decorating for more than two decades says she specializes in bringing warmth, beauty and function to spaces. “I feel that homes need to reflect the family that lives there. I listen to the desires and dreams of my clients and work to bring that to fruition,” she says. “My desire is that my clients cannot wait to walk through their door and love being home.” Karen and Larry Cress are clients of the Monte-Sherry team. They wanted a family-oriented, Texas-Tuscan style home: an old-looking new house combining elegance and comfort. Plus, it had to be “drop dead gorgeous,” says Karen Cress. Their one-story, 5,700square foot, four-bedroom home near The Woodlands was designed and built by Monte Smith and decorated by Sherry Smith, meeting all the requirements the couple had requested. “The thing about Monte that was so incredible was his ability to take concepts from my mind and heart and put them into reality. I described things that were locked inside me and Monte and Sherry got it – they captured the vision that I had,” says Cress. “They had the heart to care enough and delve in and explore. “The end result is lovely to behold. And everyone – everyone – who comes into our home says the same thing: it is warm and inviting, and you just want to relax and enjoy it.” The house was designed around a swimming pool; the Cress’ wanted to be able to see the water from every room. Mission accomplished: the pool was built in the center of the house and it wraps around the decking, pool and spa. Sherry Smith described the Cress’ house as a dream project: “Every room has a story and every space has a purpose.” Karen Cress noted that Monte Smith had designed and built another house for her husband many years ago. “We had a choice when it came to designers and builders. I am so glad we chose Monte and Sherry. They are both so gifted at what they do and what they did for us,” she says. Karen and Larry Cress
For more information about Monte Smith Designs and MasterCraft Homes, call 808-688-6400 or visit www.montesmithdesigns.com 19
BEFORE & AFTER
KITCHEN
GATHER IN THE KITCHEN AGAIN HEIGHTS REMODEL TRANSFORMS OUTDATED SPACE INTO THE HEART OF THE HOME This cramped and hot, featureless kitchen now welcomes family and friends as a joyful eatery with a sunny disposition where the chefs of the house are falling in love with cooking and entertaining all over again. And here’s how it happened. By absorbing 70 square feet from the outdoor porch and repositioning the outside air-conditioning units, as well as relocating the pantry and utility rooms, this 1920 dysfunctional kitchen suddenly sprang into this century. Along with antique brick, gray limestone floors and a soft green-and-white color palette, a countertop of metal shavings and acrylic added to the whimsy of the homeowners’ delight. The pantry, which was next to the original refrigerator location, moved to a small closet to the right of the stairs, creating a walkway between the kitchen/family room at the end of the stairs. The adjustment displaced the washer and dryer area that was in this space, so the new laundry room easily transitioned upstairs to another underutilized closet. This game of Kitchen Tetris included the addition of more natural light via windows. Two dine-in areas now host family gatherings, one at the island and one at the breakfast nook. Previously, the clients had resorted to using folding tables!
BEFORE
20 house& home | December 2016 | www.houstonhouseandhome.net
By Crystal reeves • PHOtOGraPHy By MIrO DvOrsCaK
Bright and light, this Heights kitchen is a place to celebrate not just the holidays, but every occasion. Walls in Sherwin-Williams’ “Sea Salt,” a stand-out backsplash and, of course, the center of it all, the island made of recycled acrylic with metal shavings combine to create the cheery ambiance. 21
Gray limestone tiles for the flooring keep the kitchen sleek and a cinch to clean. Smart storage areas line the island and are easily in reach for the chefs of the house.
Storage remained a challenge, even with the additional square feet. Since we didn’t want to lose any windows, upper cabinets were not an option. Solution: An extra-wide island with shallow storage underneath flanking both sides. On one side, the island houses spices, and on the opposite side, additional liquor bottles close to the butler’s pantry find a home. The pedestal of the island provides ample storage for serving pieces. Under the breakfast nook bench are pullout drawers for dog supplies such as leashes - conveniently located by the back door. A small wall was removed and electrical controls relocated so the butler’s pantry could be added in place of the folding tables to assist with storage issues and give an interesting “furniture” look with pinstriping. The walkway between the butler’s and dining areas also opened up. The existing paneling on the dining room side was reworked as well. LED strip lights now illuminate the butler’s pantry, and throughout the renovation are 4-inch LED recessed cans. Decorative street light-style fixtures over the windows add personality, and clear pendants float over the island so not to disturb the overall feel of the room. The original stair newel post remains, and new spindles add a clean, more updated look.
RESOURCES
BEFORE
Appliances & Plumbing Ferguson Showroom 4225 Richmond Ave. 713-626-3300 shop.ferguson.com Backsplash Western Brick 7620 Washington Ave. 713.393.3400 www.western-brick.com Flooring Marble & Tile Collection 1285 Post Oak Road No. 100 713-956-8444 www.poolsidetile-mtc.com Interior Design CLR Design Services Inc. 713-269-4505 www.clrdesignservices.com
Paint Sherwin-Williams Multiple locations www.sherwin-williams.com Sconces West Elm Highland Village: 3910 Westheimer Road 713-623-2422 CityCentre: 12848 Queensbury Lane Suite 152 713-973-2041 www.westelm.com
Crystal Reeves, ASID, RID, of CLR Design Services Inc., kindly contributes this “Before & After” article to House & Home. Do you have a house project you’d like to submit with your story (300 words) and high-resolution images showing the dramatic results? If so, please send your proposals to Barbara Kuntz at barbara_kuntz@yahoo.com for consideration as our next monthly “Before & After.” 22 house& home | December 2016 | www.houstonhouseandhome.net
CLR Design Services, Inc. is a residential and commercial design firm specializing in remodels and new construction.
713.269.4505 info@clrdesignservices.com clrdesignservices.com
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24 house& home | December 2016 | www.houstonhouseandhome.net
FREE BACKSPLASH
With Minimum Countertop Purchase Call or Visit our Showroom for Details
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BEFORE & AFTER
BATH
By ann sCHaMBerGer • PHOtOGraPHy By aMy KIDD
Custom cabinets with walnut fronts, along with a coordinating bathtub apron, and Nano Marble countertops make this bath beautiful.
OUT WITH THE OLD, IN WITH THE NEW CUSTOM CABINETS, NEW COUNTERTOPS AND STAINLESS STEEL HARDWARE TAKE A MASTER BATH FROM DRAB TO FAB Embarking on a bathroom remodel can often be a long, daunting process, but for this Cypress couple, the decision to jump in was worth the inconvenience. After living in their Partners In Building home for nearly 11 years, they agreed it was time to update the master bathroom. Out went the old, white standard cabinets. The laminate was peeling away from the MDF door fronts and shallow, narrow drawers were only good to host small items. The homeowners wanted a warm, modern look. Together, we decided on building custom cabinets using solid walnut for the cabinet fronts and poplar to construct the framing. Once the walnut planks were purchased from Houston Hardwoods, the real labor began. Hours went into lining up the walnut planks in order to match the grains so the panels look cut from the same tree. The payoff: What appears like one large piece of wood on the bathtub apron is actually five pieces of wood planks glued, sanded and topped with a clear
26 house& home | December 2016 | www.houstonhouseandhome.net
Polyurethane coat. Solid poplar was used to construct the inside of each drawer. Drawers fit around the plumbing, offering more storage space. Each drawer accommodates certain items, with specific consideration given to the likes of mouthwash bottles, soaps, hairdryers, etc. A floor-to-ceiling cabinet to house towels now stands in the space where a bookshelf one stood. The drawers of the cabinet are designed to hold jewelry, scarves and decorative items. Nano Marble, a rather new product for countertops, allows the marble vessel sinks to stand out like movie stars walking down the red carpet. Stainless steel hardware purchased from a Canadian company complements the clean lines and modern look. When the homeowners were asked if they had any regrets, they responded, “Yes, we wish we hadn’t waited so long to remodel!”
The homeowners chose Sherwin-Williams’ “Aloof Gray” for the walls. The floor-to-ceiling cabinet replaces a bookshelf for storage and harmonizes with the cabinetry.
BEFORE
BEFORE 27
RESOURCES Backsplash Interceramic 8785 Clay Road 713-686-8453 www.interceramicusa.com Cabinetry Houston Hardwoods 4910 W. 34th St. 713-686-6176 www.houstonhardwoods.com
BEFORE Above at top: Just one of the vessel sinks in the bath alone displays that “Wow!” factor with its contoured shape in polished white Carrara marble.
Interior design Ann P. Brennan Interior Design www.annpbrennaninterior design.com
Light fixtures The Home Depot and the former Garden Ridge Pottery (now At Home) Multiple locations www.homedepot.com www.athome.com Vessel sinks Signature Hardware www.signaturehardware.com Paint Sherwin-Williams Multiple locations www.sherwin-williams.com
Ann Schamberger from Ann P. Brennan Interior Design kindly contributes this article to House & Home. Do you have a house project you’d like to submit with your story (300 words) and high-resolution images showing the dramatic results? If so, please send your proposals to Barbara Kuntz at barbara_kuntz@yahoo.com for consideration as our next monthly “Before & After.” 28 house& home | December 2016 | www.houstonhouseandhome.net
Let our decades of experience give your home an EDGE.
40 Anniversary th
Thanks to you, 2016 is our
When we gather in the kitchen preparing food, our hearts look to see who is missing. We are nourished by those we love; their souls fill the context of our existence and their presence will always be felt.
Jesus is the Reason for the Season.
Hien Lam Upholstery “Where quality, service and price make a difference” Phone: (713) 523-3416 Fax: (713) 523-8610 819 West Drew St. • Houston, TX 77006 www.hienlamupholstery.net • hlupholstery@yahoo.com
Granite ■ Natural Quartz ■ Redos Kitchen & Bath Countertops
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By Lindsay Canright
PROJECT LEFT: This George Kovacs adjustable, six-light bar chandelier features a brushed-nickel suspension bar with cased opal etched glass. Photo courtesy of lampsplus.com
Pendant lamps, such as the Lillibet by Slamp, make artistic statements when placed above a kitchen island. Available at LIGHT
UP TO THE TASK IN KITCHENS AND BATHROOMS, TASK LIGHTING WORKS HARD FOR THOSE SPECIFIC - AND IMPORTANT - JOBS The dark ages are history. Modern interiors are channeling the power of light to create ambiance and make everyday life a little easier. “Lighting is both functional and aesthetic,” says Ann Morgan, ALAC, CLD, CLC, with The Lighting Gallery. “When selecting lighting for a new home or a remodeling project, homeowners should be aware of specific styles, finishes and functionality of the light fixture they are buying.” Designers agree the best-lit spaces opt for a layered look, using a combination of ambient, accent and task lighting. The latter is essential, though, in kitchens and bathrooms, where sharp knives and mascara wands make for dangerous tools without proper illumination. “The biggest concerns for task lighting are the level of illumination, color rendering and how to avoid shadows,” says Sarah Gandy, a principal lighting designer at Gandy2 Lighting Design. “We want the light to be placed where nothing will come between it and the task at hand.” 30 house& home | December 2016 | www.houstonhouseandhome.net
Lighting a space requires a keen eye, attuned not only to stylish fixtures, but also to how light behaves in a space. Still, the complex process is sometimes overshadowed by other facets of the design process, says Nadia Choates, who works at LIGHT. “Lighting is so incredibly important to living spaces and yet, it seems to be one of the most overlooked items when people are buying a home or doing improvement projects,” Choates says. When designing a kitchen, Gandy says to think about the lighting as you're finalizing cabinetry details. Ask yourself questions. Do you need a lip on the bottom of your cabinets to conceal the fixture? If so, how large? Will task lighting above the sink or stove top need accommodation in the millwork? Because of its ability to cast shadow-free light on surfaces, Gandy says undercabinet lighting has become a popular option in kitchens.
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Cedar & Moss Alto Sconces help keep bathroom lighting in front of your face, avoiding casting shadows.
AIM by FLOS strong lights allow homeowners to create different designs by swagging the cords. Available at LIGHT and KuhlLinscomb
“If you're relying on downlights or pendants in the room for task lighting, those will most likely be behind you as you are chopping food on the counter, and your body will cast a shadow,” she says. The position of task lighting is also important in bathrooms, where stray shadows could cause makeup catastrophes. “A lot of people buy above-mirror vanity lighting thinking it’s a good solution,” Gandy says. “While this is better than a recessed light above your head, it will still cast shadows because the light is coming from above your face.” She recommends using at least two soft, luminous sources at face height, about five feet high, to flank any mirror, whether it’s a vanity or full-length mirror. “Usually these are sconces, but if there is not room on the wall, consider hanging two small pendants next to the mirror instead,” Gandy says. Paying attention to the details can make a noticeable difference. “Many see vanity lighting as decorative and don't necessari-
32 house& home | December 2016 | www.houstonhouseandhome.net
ly think about the difference a good fixture makes. Grooming and morning preparations can be made less of a task with lighting that shows makeup correctly,” Choates says. This doesn't take away from the artful quality of modern light fixtures, which put the “fun” in function. “There are fixtures that play with the idea of a fixture being just as artistic as they are useful,” Choates says. Among these, the Lillibet by Slamp comes in a small form that works well for island lighting. “It’s shaped like a traditional chandelier, but the kicker is that it is made from clear plastic components adorned with crystal accessories that bring the fixture into modern standards of style,” Choates says. Similarly, string lights by FLOS add a touch of whimsy to a space. “The cable on these is just as important as the light itself, as you can make different designs on the ceiling by stretching and swagging the cords before fixture reaches its final hanging position,” Choates says.
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Swell brass string lights by Pablo Designs help create an elegant but flexible task lighting solution. Images below courtesy of lampsplus.com and lightingdirect.com
Eglo brushed-aluminum track light
RESOURCES Gandy2 Lighting Design 1824 Spring St., Suite 201 713-489-5111, www.g2ld.com Orson 13 1/2-inch high-satin nickel wall sconce
Kirchner Brinley brushed-nickel mini-pendant
Kuhl-Linscomb 2424 W. Alabama St. 713-526-6000 www.kuhl-linscomb.com LIGHT 4202 Richmond Ave. 713-640-5568 www.thelightcompany.net The Lighting Gallery 6265 Cypress Creek Parkway 281-444-9299 www.lightinghouston.com Hudson Valley Walker 10-inch aged-brass wall sconce
Quoizel’s polished-chrome Cosmic 3 bathroom vanity light with “Saturn Sand Blast” and clear glass shades
This Duncan chrome-and-white pendant light focuses light down, making it ideal for kitchen task lighting.
Jonathan Adler, St. Germain 12 1/2-inch brass plug-in sconce
34 house& home | December 2016 | www.houstonhouseandhome.net
Possini Emilio bathroom vanity light
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DEAL HUNTER
Compiled by lindsay Canright
Kitchen Appliances & Bathroom Fixtures
Freestanding tubs and more luxury bath furnishings and fixtures go on sale this month. Photo courtesy of Kohler
Ready or not, the holidays are here. And so are the year’s best local deals. Everything you need to outfit your kitchen and bathroom is for the taking at deep discounts, not just on Black Friday, but through the end of 2016. “People might consider ordering plumbing fixtures in December as most of the manufacturers release their price increases between January and March each year,” says Tracy Cooper-Wilson, showroom manager at Westheimer Plumbing & Hardware. “If you want to beat the coming price increases, December is a good time to buy.” Before you set out on a kitchen and bath deal hunt, it’s worth considering which trends have the most staying power. “In 2017, gold is going to rule in hardware and in plumbing fixtures,” says Patricia Brown, a K&B insider for the National Kitchen and Bath Association. Restoration Hardware’s end-of-year sale selection includes many gold fixtures that promise to add a touch of glamour to your kitchen or bathroom without hurting your pocketbook. Another trend in bathrooms: Channeling the ambiance of a spa with swanky freestanding tubs, steam showers and electric towel warmers.
36 house& home | December 2016 | www.houstonhouseandhome.net
On the kitchen front, Eliza Sheffield, president of BlueStar, says gray will continue to be a popular color choice. “Gray in particular continues to show up in every room and surface in homes, especially black kitchens that incorporate gray as an accent color,” Sheffield says. There are a bevy of stand mixers, blenders and high-performance espresso machines, which make stops at Starbucks a thing of the past, on offer in gray finishes. If it’s time to replace larger kitchen appliances, Brown recommends buying a full suite, rather than a single appliance. “Think about the buying power you’re going to have when you’re buying a complete package from a manufacturer. A lot of times they’re going to throw in a dishwasher or something like that,” she says. “If you’re just buying one appliance, you’re not going to get as good of a deal.” For those who might be overwhelmed by this idea, Brown offered this tip: “Appliances are like cars. You have them at every marketplace, every level. Not everyone can afford a Rolls Royce, but there are a lot of great options that aren’t going to break down on you.”
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DECEMBER DEALS: While Westheimer Plumbing & Hardware does not have specific manufacturer lines on sale during December and January, the business has numerous products on clearance at its Warehouse Outlet Center. The items on clearance range from 30 to 70 percent off list price. Warehouse, 3590 E. T.C. Jester, 888-409-1906, www.westheimerplumbing.com Sears has the freestanding 63-inch European-style bathtub by Golden Vantage on sale from $999 to $2,199. Multiple locations, www.sears.com Restoration Hardware has bang-up deals on bathroom fixtures including the Vintage 8-inch widespread faucet, originally $695 and now starting at $525. 4030 Westheimer Road, 713-328-3100, www.restoration hardware.com
The Glow four-bar electric towel warmer (above left) in brushed nickel by Anzzi is on special at The Home Depot for $239.94. Multiple locations, www.homedepot.com Sur La Table has the KitchenAid 6500 Series slate stand mixer (see above) with glass bowl on sale from $439.96 to $549.95. 1996 West Gray St., 713-533-0400, www.surlatable.com Williams-Sonoma is offering major deals on morning musthaves like the KitchenAid Nespresso espresso maker marked down from $399.95 to $299.99 and the DeLonghi PrimaDonna Exclusive automatic espresso maker from $3,499.95 to $2,449.99. 4060 Westheimer Road, 713-212-0346, www.williams-sonoma.com The GE Profile Series countertop convection/microwave oven retails for $549, but is on sale starting at $494 at Acceptance Appliance. 6765 N. Sam Houston Parkway West, 281-955-0861, www.acceptanceappliance.com
Watch for gold hardware, fixtures and accents in 2017. Photo courtesy of Kohler 38 house& home | December 2016 | www.houstonhouseandhome.net
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40 house& home | December 2016 | www.houstonhouseandhome.net
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A TALE OF THREE KITCHENS Award-winning architects host grand tours of their latest and greatest projects By Barbara Canetti Kitchens are usually the heart and soul of the house. They are where families and friends eat, greet and meet for meals and deals. Kitchens are where children and their friends can get comfortable and linger, so well-designed kitchens need seating and prep areas, as well as room to move about. Functionality is so important, as is optimizing every inch and not wasting any space. Designers creating small kitchens usually stick with the galley style with appliances and preparation counters facing each other. In larger rooms, the conventional L-shaped or U-shaped kitchen is recommended with an island sharing part of the load. Durable materials and ample storage are necessary, along with sturdy and resilient chairs and seating. And, most importantly, lots of light! Successful kitchens tend to be bright and cheery, which translates into relaxed, well-used spaces.
Open to Nature & the Neighborhood Photography by Ben Hill Carolyn and Thomas Caldwell wanted a bright kitchen that was open to the outdoors as well as open to the rest of their new house in West University. That’s what they got in their new 42 house& home | December 2016 | www.houstonhouseandhome.net
Natural light fills this West University kitchen via the innovative use of glass-fronted cabinets lining a wall of ceiling-high windows.
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home: A kitchen that doubles as a screened-in porch when the 18-footwide doors are pulled back. The kitchen and house design, created by their daughter/architect Natalye Appel of Natalye Appel + Associates Architects, connects the kitchen and dining room to the living room – separated only by a see-through fireplace. Glass-fronted cupboards line a wall of ceiling-high windows behind the sink. Carolyn chose these cabinets to display her colorful antique and vintage glass collection, which she shares with the neighbors who can see the vibrant glassware from the sidewalk. The modern farmhouse-style kitchen, with its Shaker cabinets, is a simple design, says Appel. The walnut wood floors contrast with the white Carrara marble countertops and painted cabinets. A hidden surprise in the kitchen is the pantry, which actually is a small room adjacent to the kitchen. Here the refrigerator, washer/dryer and freezer are located, along with lots of storage areas for food and small appliances. Since the pantry shares a wall with the garage, the Caldwells invented a trolley system that allows them to unload their car and easily move packages and groceries into the pantry without having to carry them into the house. In addition, Appel designed the kitchen and the entire house to be accessible with no steps or narrow areas so the home is accommodating for a wheelchair, if that requirement is ever needed. RIGHT: White Carrara marble countertops and island present a pleasing contrast to the darker walnut wood floors. OPPOSITE PAGE: A nook in the kitchen offers more prepping space.
44 house& home | December 2016 | www.houstonhouseandhome.net
Integration is key to this Bellaire kitchen. Upstairs, library activities join the cooking and eating downstairs in this spacious heart of the home.
Core of the House | Photography by Ben Hill John Tsai wanted to design a family home for himself that centered around the kitchen, so he fashioned a threestory house in Bellaire in which all the social and public rooms feed off the large kitchen. Tsai, owner of JT ARC Studio, created a rather bare and minimalist kitchen, keeping it as compact as possible but definitely making it the essential center of the home. To enhance the light in the room, he lined one cinderblock wall with a series of clerestory windows hovering above the staircase. The unfiltered windows allow almost year-round sunshine that warms the room with natural brightness. A study and a children’s library loft loom over the kitchen, so family members are always part of the activities 46 house& home | December 2016 | www.houstonhouseandhome.net
going on below. The 3,200-square-foot house and kitchen were also designed with the daily uses of the family in mind: Eating, prepping, mingling and playing. Tsai’s plan centered around a clutter-free environment. A large pantry was built into the wall under a staircase to store food items and other kitchen paraphernalia in order to keep the countertops clear. Tsai chose NeoLith for the tabletops, a compact slab of durable, natural materials. The smooth custom cabinets, made from solid oak, match the island as well as the bookcases in the nearby study. The floors of the kitchen are washed white oak. “Essentially the kitchen was not conceived as just a kitchen, but was integrated into the walls, the stairs and open space,” Tsai says. “It was not about defining it as a kitchen space, but as an essential part of the house.”
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The smart use of built-ins allows for an uncluttered look in this Bellaire kitchen and brings focus to the glass backsplash and floating shelves.
Not Too Trendy, but Timeless Photography by Michael Hunter Architect Shawn Gottschalk of StudioMET Architects says the kitchen he designed in Bellaire is not trendy at all. In fact, he says it is timeless and will continue to look fresh decades from now. “By mixing materials and finishes, we created a room that will be relevant today as well as 20 years from now,” he says. The open-concept kitchen that combined with the dining area took advantage of built-ins for the refrigerator, oven and a plethora of storage opportunities. Because of that, he was able to bring attention to the wall behind the stove and the stainless hood and mix it with open, floating shelves, which give the homeowner an opportunity to showcase some of her family vintage pieces that are meaningful to her. 48 house& home | December 2016 | www.houstonhouseandhome.net
“We eliminated all overhead cabinetry because upper cabinets are hard to reach anyway,” he says. “This has a cleaned up and simple look. It allowed for the strong and bold dominant features to be seen.” One of the focal points of the room is the three-panel tempered glass backsplash, an indication of newer trends: Go larger. “Rather than lots of small tiles, we found it is more cost effective to go large,” he says. He used 5-inch white oak planks on the floor of the 3,400-square-foot house and interesting oversized Tom Dixon copper shade pendants for light fixtures over the custom-fabricated solid parota wood (a tropical hardwood) dining table mounted on black painted steel. The chairs in the dining room are a mix of vintage and class mid-century modern Eames Shell chairs.
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The kitchen extends to a light-infused dining area featuring a custom table, Eames Shell chairs from Hivemodern.com and lights from YLighting.com.
RESOURCES West University house by Natalye Appel + Associates Architects Architect: Natalye Appel 2523 Barlett St. 713-522-7992 www.appelarchitects.com Appliances K&N Sales 1401 Shepherd Drive 713-868-3611 www.knsales.com Countertops Associated Marble Company Inc. 9306 Summerbell Lane 713-772-3434 Flooring Floor Designs of Houston 713-413-4433 Lighting Lighting Inc. 4218 Richmond Ave.
713-623-6500 www.lightinginc.com Sliding doors to deck Western Window Systems www.westernwindowsystems.com Tile by Daltile Multiple dealers Daltile Tile & Stone Gallery 2808 Richmond Ave., Suite A 713-533-9305 www.daltile.com Plumbing Westheimer Plumbing & Hardware 3600 Kirby Drive 713-942-9519 www.westheimerplumbing.com Restoration Hardware 4030 Westheimer Road 713-328-3100 www.restorationhardware.com Paint Sherwin-Williams Multiple locations www.sherwin-williams.com
50 house& home | December 2016 | www.houstonhouseandhome.net
Bellaire house by JT ARC Studio Architect: John Tsai 2020 Richmond Ave., Suite 201 713-349-0860 www.jtarcstudio.com
Bellaire house by StudioMET Architects Architect: Shawn Gottschalk, AIA 2000 Edwards St. 713-255-0008 www.studiomet.com Flooring Tex-Wood Hardwood Floors 6303 W. 34th St. 713-979-1598 Glass panel backsplash The Glass Guys 32501 Gordon Side Road 713-283-3885
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This kitchen island, designed by Traditional Designs Ltd., serves as a spacious breakfast, eating and sitting area.
Talk about a retreat: Kohler brings us its new VibrAcoustic bath with soothing sound technology. Photo courtesy of Kohler
EXPERT ADVICE Tackle your kitchen and bath projects with ease with our “Tips from the Pros” Compiled by Barbara Kuntz
The Island as the New Breakfast Room
If you’re facing the many decisions of kitchen and bath remodeling or new construction, you’ve come to the right place for ideas, inspiration and, most importantly, answers. Our “Tips from the Pros” covers the latest in trends and offers bountiful options in everything K&B, from space-saving features to budget and luxury products. Experts in their respective fields considered questions presented by House & Home, and we thank them for their invaluable time and advice. The following is a compilation of their responses.
“Kitchens have incorporated the ‘open’ concept for quite some time now, and it is still a popular design request,” says Monte Smith of MS Designs. “However, what we are doing is coming up with larger kitchens with larger islands where they serve as the breakfast, eating and sitting areas. To add to this, we are making the ceilings higher, in some cases.”
H&H: What are the latest trends in kitchen/bath projects?
“Gray cabinets and kitchens in general are becoming seemingly more popular,” says Jamie Allum Pruett of Traditional Designs Ltd. “While white is still a top choice, gray may be taking the lead.”
LED Lighting “The lighting world has changed significantly in the past few years,” says Randy Godeau of Bay Area Kitchens. “LED lighting has truly taken over, and we’re all benefitting from this with not only lower lighting costs, but with lower air-conditioning costs as well. LED lighting produces a higher quality of light using a fraction of the energy and heat output of incandescent lighting.” Godeau adds when shopping for LED lighting, make sure to select only premium products.
52 house& home | December 2016 | www.houstonhouseandhome.net
Gray is the New White
Spa Baths Peggy McGowen of Kitchen & Bath Concepts says today’s bathrooms, particularly master baths, incorporate spa-inspired features to create that “take-me-away” experience, with large, shared spaces for master baths, steam or sauna and separate water closet areas. To complement these features, warm floors and built-in towel warmers, easy-maintenance surfaces and slip-resistant floor tiles or materials add to the escape.
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What is your design philosophy? “Let the client’s personality and sense of style shine through.” I try to guide and advise my clients on what I feel will work best, but in the end, I’m really a facilitator to assist them with their project.
How do your clients' tastes or personalities influence design projects? It's very important that a client’s personal taste be considered and highlighted in the end result. I am hired for a reason, however, so it’s my responsibility to give them the best design advice and resources available to achieve a very personalized goal.
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What's the first thing you ask a client when starting a project? I ask how they visualize using the space. Do they want the living room to be a more formal or casual space? How do they like to entertain? Could the dining room double as a library, or will it be strictly for dining? Get to the essence of how they prefer to utilize the space. What initially drew you to interior design? As a child, I was forever re-arranging my friends’ bedrooms as well as my own family’s home (much to the annoyance of the adults, I might add). I’ve always loved unique objects and works of art. My love for design grew from that, and I set off for college to get my degree in interior design.
How can a potential client know if a particular designer is a good fit for their project? Interview more than one designer and see how you connect. Working on someone’s home becomes very personal, so it’s imperative that you feel comfortable and secure with your designer.
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An English larder provides lots of tucked away storage.
Pull-out vertical cabinet storage helps keep your kitchen organized.
Mary Roberts of Katy Kitchen & Bath says spa baths were the “best” part of the 2016 Kitchen & Bath Industry Show. “Spa-like bath fixtures with body sprays, water from the ceiling, soaking tubs with bubbles, massage and music that send a migraine-busting relaxation into your body,” Roberts says. “The kind that says it doesn’t matter what it costs, you gotta have it.” And comfort and class extend to the toilet area, she adds, with warming seats and built-in cleansing systems – all in a package “pretty to see.”
ious utensil dividers and extra-deep divided drawers for skillets, lids and sauce pans to eliminate ‘nesting’ of those items, making each individually accessible.”
Built-Ins
H&H: Tell us about your most efficient space-saving features/products for kitchens and baths.
Roberts dittos the sentiment from her clients asking for more, more and more storage. A popular solution: Built-ins to their hearts’ desires. “Pulls-downs for those with wheelchair access,” she says. “Pull-down tables, multi-use spaces and roll-out shelves for inside the cabinets and cutlery trays for organizing cabinet drawers. All [customers] want more drawers.”
The Larder
Hidden Compartments
“Since so many people now want kitchens with fewer walls and more windows, the result is less space for storage for all the big appliances they want,” McGowen says. “The result is more requests for a big walk-in pantry or larder. A place to store all the bulk food, large/small (countertop) appliances, as well large pots and pans and often dish storage, too. Add to that the pet food containers, lunch boxes, reusable grocery bags, cleaning supplies, etc.”
“In kitchens, there are so many extras you can do with cabinets to have an efficient working kitchen,” Pruett says. “Many, many people are wanting a cabinet with a pull-out trash can to hide it and get it out of the kitchen. Small hidden spice racks on the side of a range or cooktop are another popular request. “And using an island proficiently is one more feature customers are asking about,” she continues. “Whether it’s adding an appliance in it for a warming drawer or beverage refrigerator, a bookshelf on the end to store cookbooks or extra cabinet doors on the outside for extra storage, many are wanting to utilize every inch they can find.” Need more assistance with your next K&B project? Never fear, our experts are still here with a quick checklist based on their submissions to H&H. Happy remodeling and building from all of us!
Drawer Dividers Godeau combines the use of frameless cabinets in kitchen and baths with drawers in lower cabinets for maximum space utilization and easy access. “We further optimize storage in those drawers with clever divider systems and other features,” he continues, “including var54 house& home | December 2016 | www.houstonhouseandhome.net
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Daltile’s granite “Blue Ice” countertop shimmers in the foreground. The Zephyr hood is from Ferguson. Photo courtesy of Lynne T. Jones
RESOURCES Ann P. Brennan Interior Design 713-703-8258 www.annpbrennaninterior design.com Bay Area Kitchens 17306 TX-3 281-338-2737 www.bayareakitchens.com Daltile Multiple dealers www.daltile.com Ferguson Showroom Houston 4245 Richmond Ave. 713-626-3300 www.shopferguson.com Katy Kitchen & Bath 1002 Airline Drive 281-391-6279 www.katykitchen.com
Kitchen & Bath Concepts 7026 Old Katy Road No. 14, 713-528-5575 www.kitchen-concepts.com Kohler Mutiple dealers www.kohler.com Lynne T. Jones Interior Design 16107 Kensington Drive No. 122 281-437-3307 www.lynnetjones.com Monte Smith Designs 808-688-6400 www.montesmith designs.com Traditional Designs Ltd. 3602 W. 12th St. 713-463-5800 www.traditionaldesigns ltd.com
56 house& home | December 2016 | www.houstonhouseandhome.net
Lighting - and today, especially LED lighting - plays a crucial role for kitchen and bath illumination. Photo courtesy of Bay Area Kitchens
K&B Splurge Items High-quality, custom manufactured cabinets Granite or quartz countertops and even engineered countertop materials composed of jewel-like stone sections and resins Induction cooktops, convection ovens and steam ovens Second dishwasher and second refrigerator Remote-controlled everything Murphy doors Heated flooring as pathway for bed-to-bathroom areas Towel warmers Toilets with sanitizing features
K&B Investments on a Budget Walk-in showers with wheel-chair capability Acrylic shower surrounds Drawers with built-in chargers Plywood for cabinets Plywood with laminate that looks like granite New hardware Updated fixtures Tub refinishing Easy maintenance materials for flooring and countertops Paint
STOCK FHA CARPET $10.99 sq. yd. Installed Seven Beautiful Colors! HARDWOOD FLOORS $4.99 sq ft Installed
12mm LAMINATE WOOD $3.59 sq ft Installed CERAMIC TILE $2.99 sq ft Installed
832.987.1422
HILLPROFLOORS Westheimer Plumbing & Hardware is the premier place to find the best in decorative plumbing and hardware products from across the nation and around the world. We are passionate about making your project exceptional! We look forward to seeing you soon!
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WP&H OUTLET CENTER & Warehouse 3590 East T.C. Jester Houston, TX 77018 713-956-0090 Mon-Fri, 8-5
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BATHROOMS ON PARADE Create luxe, sophisticated escapes to cheery, clean spaces for every member of the house By Marsha Canright Today’s bathrooms are far more than a toilet, a tub and a toothbrush. They have become essential, private retreats from the stresses of everyday life. “It’s a place to get away from the children, the dog, even the spouse,” says Mark Atkins of Masa Studio Architects. The trend in bath design, especially for master baths, is a spacious, streamlined and spa-like escape with a calming color palette and a clutter-free environment. Houston designers, including Atkins, say organic materials like wood and stone continue to be popular elements, along with a wet room configuration combining a walk-in shower and a freestanding soaking tub. Although traditional baths are not uncommon, local customers lean toward a clean, contemporary style. High-tech innovations now available for the bathroom allow homeowners to save water, adjust water temperature to preference and utilize amenities like hands-free faucets, music through a Bluetooth showerhead and fog-free mirrors. Other trends gaining popularity are heated floors, even in Houston; washlets, a type of unisex bidet popular in many countries; and water colored by LED lighting. Much of this technology is still being perfected and remains fairly expensive, Atkins says.
Luxury in Meyerland Photography by Ben Hill This master bath, designed by Atkins, is one of six in a twostory, 5,900-square-foot home in Meyerland. “The husband and wife wanted a master bath with separate and common areas so they could have space but still talk in the morning when they were getting ready for the day,” Atkins says. The bath has separate toilets, separate closets and his-andher-vanities, but shares a 6-by-6-foot walk-in shower and a soaking tub. The Bain Ultra vinyl tub with air jets is centered beneath a barrel-vaulted ceiling and illuminated by a Courbet chandelier. “The shower has a dehumidified mirror so the husband can
58 house& home | December 2016 | www.houstonhouseandhome.net
This master bath in a Meyerland residence takes a nod to elegant traditional styling. A Bain Ultra vinyl tub sits in the common area.
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shave in the shower, and the temperature of the water is pre-selected and controlled electronically. It has a rain dome, a shower head, and multiple body sprays that can be used separately or together,” he says. The floors are limestone with insets etched with a Celtic design, a theme repeated in the shower. In her vanity, the large drawers are fitted with a power strip so her blow dryer, curling iron and other appliances are plugged in and ready. The vanity is also equipped with an LED lighting bar especially designed for applying makeup. TIPS FROM ATKINS “Before you star t designing a bathroom, look at the types of activities and products you use on a daily basis. Nail down the essentials, and the style will fall into place. Right now, there is a big push for trench-style drains and linear drains, which look like thin slots in the shower floor. Epoxy grout is a real must; it has the durability of porcelain tile.”
The Montrose Beat Photo courtesy of KGA Design Creating the illusion of space was a tall order in this small, inner bathroom in a venerable Montrose high-rise. Designer Kelly Gale Amen of KGA Design streamlined the spatial arrangement to make it less confusing and more comfortable. “We created a functional walk-in shower with a teak and stone bench where a bathtub had been,” he says. “The space needed to be more user friendly and have better flow.” With no source of natural light, Amen used a combination of LED lighting and overhead spotlights. Marble, a teak bench and a frameless-glass shower door bring luxury to this small Montrose bath. 60 house& home | December 2016 | www.houstonhouseandhome.net
The high performance, flexible mini-ducts of the fit easily behind walls and ceilings, eliminating the need for unsightly and cumbersome metal ducts and allowing you to maintain the architectural integrity of your home. is also draft-free and removes more moisture from the air. Call this certified contractor for more information on the
Norm Hilburn • www.airmartoftx.com
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Small but luxurious, the bath fetures natural-colored marble, heated floors, metal fixtures, a steam shower and plenty of water works. It is minimalist, but not cold. TIPS FROM AMEN “Don’t forget mirrors. They are the most interesting veneer. A mirror doubles the space and improves the usage of light. Pay attention to storage. This is like boating and displacement: Each square inch is impor tant.”
Clean & Colorful Photography by Julie Soefer When it comes to bathrooms for children and grandchildren, designer Laura Umansky stays attuned to the pragmatic. She calls it livable luxury with an emphasis on the livable. "These two bathrooms, both in The Woodlands, are fun, colorful and easy to keep clean. Also, the design will adapt easily as the children grow into ’tweens and ’teens,” Umansky says. One featured children’s bath is for the young children of a family who use this house as a second home. It has a graphic, colorful stripe with vinyl wallpaper. The wallpaper holds up well in a damp area better than paint and is easy to wipe clean, she says. The other bath is part of a bunkhouse suite for three grandsons who are frequent visitors at their grandparents’ home. It has pretty, blue porcelain wall tiles with a super-simple mirror floating atop the tile. Sleek, orange lighting fixtures complement overhead cans to create balanced, layered lighting for children who are different ages and heights. Keep children’s baths kid-friendly, easy to clean and, of course, bright and happy. 62 house& home | December 2016 | www.houstonhouseandhome.net
A.G.WELDING Custom designed ornamental iron stair and balcony railings, staircases, gates, carports, awnings, and structural iron work. Free estimates Residential & Commercial 8125 McGee Ln Houston, TX 77071 713-988-4200 www.agwelding.com 63
The vanity is made from clear alder, a sustainable wood, and provides all-important storage. Both bathrooms have sturdy step stools to make it easier for younger children to use the sink and mirror. TIPS FROM UMANSKY “A hand shower is a priority because there are times when children need to be hosed off; it makes a world of difference. Undermount sinks are recommended for children’s baths because they are easy to clean. Be sure to have a shower niche at the right height for shampoo, toys and body wash. Have dimmers installed on lights, which make it possible for parents to leave a soft, comfor ting light glowing.” For quality fixtures, Umansky finds Kohler products are a go-to, Duravit for contemporar y style and Samuel Heath, if you have the budget. The vinyl wallpaper in colorful stripes pops in this children’s bathroom in The Woodlands.
RESOURCES Architectural Design Resource 2808 Richmond Ave. 713-877-8366 www.adrhouston.com Circa Lighting 2427 Westheimer Road 713-526-4100 www.circalighting.com Crate and Barrel 4006 Westheimer Road 713-490-6400 www.crateandbarrel.com Fixtures and Fittings Inc. The Houston Design Center
7026 Old Katy Road, No. 171 713-888-9069 www.fixturesfittings.com Houston Builders Hardware Inc. 10535 Wilcrest Drive, No. 170 281-495-0595 KGA Design 713-206-5346 www.kga.net Laura U Interior Design 4306 Yoakum Blvd., Suite 150 800-924-8967 or 713-522-0855 www.laurauinteriordesign.com Masa Studio Architects 3211 Edloe St. 713-592-6700
64 house& home | December 2016 | www.houstonhouseandhome.net
www.masastudio.net Thorntree Slate & Marble 10105 W. Gulf Bank Road 713-690-8200 thorntreeslate.com Westheimer Plumbing & Hardware 3600 Kirby Drive 713-942-9519 www.westheimerplumbing.com
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66 house& home | December 2016 | www.houstonhouseandhome.net
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Before you install it, get the protection that lasts. Like non-stick cookware, ShowerGuard™ Glass by Guardian™ Industries is permanent and easy to clean. Get the ONLY permanent protection product available; no special cleaners, no messy reapplication, no problems. Ask for it by name at these fine dealers.
Lone Star Glass Inc. 3804 Bissonnet • Houston, TX 77005 713-661-0091 • www.lonestarglass.com 67
Compiled by barbara Kuntz
EDITOR’S PICKS
Go, go Gadgets!
1.
Gadgets in all shapes and sizes help add functionality, flair and fun to our lives, particularly those gizmos for the kitchen and bath. You’ll find yourself asking, “Where have you been all my life?” after perusing our selection. AQUATUNES $149 A Reddot Design Award-winner this year, Aquatunes is collaboration between Philips and Grohe. Simply mount the water-resistant speaker to your shower rail or place anywhere in the bathroom for a rocking – or relaxing – experience. Aquatunes connects to a Smartphone or MP3 player via Bluetooth. Available through Grohe, www.grohe.com, and authorized Grohe dealers
2.
MARCATO COOKIE PRESS $49.99 The Italian-made cookie press includes 20 accessories with different designs for your yummy confections. The deluxe dough dropper also comes complete with an instruction booklet and recipes. Special order through C&D Hardware and Gifts, 314 E. 11th St., Houston, 713-861-3551, www.canddhw.com MESSERMEISTER CHEF’S CRÈME BRÛLÉE TORCH $49.95 Turn up the heat in your kitchen with this gadget, as well as add that finishing touch to your perfect crème brûlée. The trigger-start aluminum torch features an adjustable 2,700-degree anti-flair jet flame and operates on a refillable 9-oz. butane canister (not included). A child-resistant lock keeps it safe for adult-use only. Available through Sur La Table, four locations in the Houston area, www.surlatable.com
68 house& home | December 2016 | www.houstonhouseandhome.net
3.
281-830-5680
www.vollmercustompools.com
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4. FOODSAVER VACUUM SEALERS $79.99-$449.95 Yes, “as seen on TV.” And they work! Shown here is the new and already best-selling two-in-one preservation system that combats air, the enemy of freshness, with an airtight seal. Various sizes of seal and zipper bags are included. Hunters: Check out the GameSaver version. Available at Target, Walmart and through www.foodsaver.com
5. KOZE WALL MOUNT ELECTRIC TOWEL WARMER BY VIRTU USA $175 Bring a bit of spa luxury to your bath with this easy-to-install warmer. All Koze towel warmers are crafted from brushed stainless steel and finished in a variety of options to suit your fancy. Simply turn the switch to on, and in 10 minutes your towels will be oh-sotoasty. About 20 wide, 22 inches tall. Available through Wayfair Supply, www.wayfairsupply.com
Ace Kustoms
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Quality Work at a Reasonable Price
Fax 713-686-3217
4910 W 34th St.
Specializing In Hardwood Lumber, Plywood and Moulding.
PERSONAL SERVICE PROMPT DELIVERY
• Entertainment Centers • Kitchen & Bath • Mirror Treatments • Book Shelves • Ornamental Moldings
Antique Pine, Aromatic Cedar, Ash, B. E. Maple, Basswood, Birch, Bloodwood, Bocote, Bubinga, Cherry, Cocobola, Curly Maple, Cypress, Lacewood, Mahogany, Maple, Mesquite, Mexican Rosewood, Oak, Padouk, Pecan, Purpleheart, Poplar, Spanish Cedar, Sycamore, Teak, Walnut, Wenge, Zebrawood and More Quality Domestic & Imported Plywood (Interior & Marine) Edgebanding & Veneer Sheets • Butcher Block Tops Flooring • Moulding • MDF & Melamine
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You Break’em... We’ll Fix’em! Window Coverings: Blinds Pickup & Delivery Shades Available Shutters Most repairs can be made on-site
City Blind Repair 713.664.0444
■
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70 house& home | December 2016 | www.houstonhouseandhome.net
LIBERTY BELL ANTIQUES Specializing in high end European and American antiques, gifts and decor. 14363 Liberty Street Montgomery, TX 77356 (936) 597-4606
www.libertybellantiques.com
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Custom Glasswork SERVING HOUSTON FOR OVER
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(713) 729-3699 www.artglassbywells.com
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6. CACHET® NIGHTLIGHT QUIET-CLOSE™ TOILET SEAT $78.60 Safely locate your toilet in the dark with this new elongated product featuring two brightness levels delivered by a hidden LED fixture. The light glows as a guide when the lid is down and shines a bit brighter as a task light when the lid is lifted. Battery operated. Available through Kohler dealers throughout the Houston area, www.us.kohler.com
7. LEKUE SILICONE POPCORN MAKER $20 This clever, collapsible bowl makes healthy and delicious popcorn in a jiffy. Fill it with up to 1/2 cup of popcorn kernels (salt optional), pop on the lid and microwave two to three minutes. Dishwasher safe. Available through three area Williams-Sonoma locations, www.williams-sonoma.com
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72 house& home | December 2016 | www.houstonhouseandhome.net
Color Hardeners • Releases • Acid Stains Premium Sealers • Polyurethanes & Epoxies Counter Top Mix • Self Leveling Overlays • Stamps Tools • Training & Support • Seminars The Original
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GARDENING
DITCH THE HAM Holiday Plant Favorites as Gifts Keep the Festive Spirit Growing Year-Round By LINDA GAy
Plants are great gifts to share with family and friends. Just think about it: Plant-giving is more personal than a ham, and your present continues to give throughout the year. So get ready to deck the halls with living beauty.
Crown of Thorns blooms throughout the year with minimal care and is accented here with Dustry Miller. Photo by Linda Gay 74 house& home | December 2016 | www.houstonhouseandhome.net
FRAGRANTLY FABULOUS Lavender and rosemary trees are pruned into cone or pyramid shapes and are readily available during the holidays. Care of these fragrant, herbal trees is easy with a few simple steps. The herbal trees need good, strong light and cool temperatures, so rotate them in and out of the house. You can put them outside away from direct sun for a few days of revival. Placement on a patio or porch until the next indoor event will keep them looking good - and happy! Watering or soaking the miniature trees in the kitchen sink is very effective because these plants are pot-bound and need more than just running water through the roots. You can add a tablespoon of liquid
30% OFF Replacement Windows Not valid with any other offer. Must present coupon at time of estimate. Expires 01/16/17
$200 GIFT CARD from Best Buy with product purchase. Minimum $5,000. Expires 01/16/17
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COLONY BUILDERS, INC. Celebrating 24 Years of Excellence • 20-Plus Years Serving Houston and Surrounding Areas
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nutrients/vitamins to the water for added stamina. Soak for a half-hour.
Brighten wintry days with a colorful Holiday Cactus, a seasonal top-seller with its exotic triple flowers. Photo by Linda Gay
EXOTIC BEAUTIES Christmas, orchid or Holiday Cactus (Epiphyllum) is the second most popular gift plant because of its exotic triple blooms. And yes, the favorite holiday variety is a true cactus. Indigenous to the rainforests of Central and South America (not many hours of direct sun there!), they can be found growing as an epiphyte on the surface of other plants, taking nourishment from the environment and not the host plant and using roots to anchor themselves in tree nooks. Allow the top three-fourths of the soil to dry out before lightly watering, and do not use fertilizer during blooming. Set on a shaded patio or porch for air circulation to assist in drying out the soil. Repot after blooming using expanded shale and compost at a 50/50 ratio to keep the plants from overwatering in the future. CROWN OF THORNS Move over, poinsettia. Your cousin from Madagascar, the Crown of Thorns (Euphorbia) is a year-round bloomer and not as fussy as you! Grow in a clay container with a 50/50 ratio of compost to shale to keep flower production up with minimal care. Allow this lovely plant to dry down between watering, and water well when you do. Enjoy! Linda Gay is a horticulturist and gardener at The Arbor Gate Nursery in Tomball.
Let the delightful scents of lavendar and rosemary trees fill your home with their herbal fragrances. Photo by Linda Gay 76 house& home | December 2016 | www.houstonhouseandhome.net
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Take an ordinary journey to an extraordinary place
PET OF THE MONTH
The Arbor Gate 15635 FM 2920 • Tomball, Texas 77377
www.arborgate.com • 281-351-8851
PILATES & FITNESS BY MIMA
713-628-3599 • Reformer Group Classes • Pilates Circuit Classes • HIIT/TRX Classes • Private and Semi-Private Sessions • Massage
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Dramatika
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HI, MY NAME IS OLAF! I’m a a two-year-old Shepherd mix who has been adopted and returned three times since I first arrived at HSPCA in July, each time for a different reason, and none of which had anything to do with me. I am a kind, loving dog who adores attention and doesn’t get fazed by much of anything. He’s a big dog, but he doesn’t get in anyone’s way, and he’s very easy to walk on a leash. He’s calm and controlled around other dogs, so he would do fine with a family that has another easy going dog like him. I am heartworm positive, but because the Houston SPCA has a partnership with VCA Animal Hospital, Olaf’s new owner will not have to cover the cost of treatment. Olaf is a staff favorite and is very deserving of a loving, permanent home.
Blinds l Shutters l Shades l Custom Drapery Window Treatments l Staging l Design
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78 house& home | December 2016 | www.houstonhouseandhome.net
The Houston SPCA, 900 Portway Drive, is open seven days a week, Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. to make choosing the adoption option as easy as possible!
Houston’s Acclaimed Jeff Law, “The Plant Whisperer” and Designer Seen on TV, Chronicle, Playboy & Magazines
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Garrett House Antiques
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TATCO CONSTRUCTION & REMODELING
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82 house& home | December 2016 | www.houstonhouseandhome.net
FREDERICK BUILDERS & REMODELERS, INC.
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83