Beyond the Box

If you've got the wall space and are inclined to appreciate the contemporary, here's a cabinet scheme that I'd like to share with you. The composition could be concentrated in the kitchen area, or drift into neighboring parts of the interior. Lift-up doors would work better than side hinged designs, as they'd keep the edges of the boxes clean. And fitting each storage unit with some sort of downlight—individually controlled—could yield some fabulous effects.

Spin Cycle

The folks behind the very-low-tech Dishmaster sure knew how to talk a good game—and come to think of it, 'tub-type electric dishwashers' of 1955 might still have been working out a few performance kinks. That might explain the disparaging implications about scraping and loading. But I fail to see the virtue in the claim of a day's supply of soap in the reservoir, and the notion of 'aerated' suds...well, what would suds be without air, I ask? In any case, the fellow wielding the wand seems to be having a fine time [remarkably, his hands are dry], and a happy Dishmaster is a good Dishmaster.

Facts of Light

It's increasingly common to see wall-mounted light fixtures in the kitchen. A decorative supplement to—not a substitute for—dedicated task lighting, they can really enhance the ambience of the room. Of course, if you're the adventuresome type, installing a sconce of contrary character [like this contemporary model in a traditional setting] can brighten the space in a very different way. shadesoflight.com

Up + Down

No, we're not having an earthquake—that jiggly, multiple-exposure effect in the photo is meant to show that the Skyline range hood can rise or lower upon demand. Delicate steel cables suspend the unit, which features a shallow, softly-lit shelf on its side. On reflection, I bet said 'shelf' is not intended for actual storage; its contents might take a tumble when the hood is on the move. berbel.de

Details Count

What a great pairing: a modern stone backsplash with traditional cabinets. I think the success of this design goes beyond the opposites-attract theory and truly lies in its left-of-center color palette and the integration of pattern [the speckled countertop and slightly funky door pulls]. martinimobili.it

Sanctuary

There's a quiet poise to this kitchen that I shall admit to coveting. The gentle light, low-key colors and comforting forms [those arched doorways are so peaceful] combine to create a room with a retreat-like atmosphere. After a weekend of compiling the results of the KBCULTURE Awards and preparing for the annual trek to the kitchen and bath trade show, KBIS [this year it's in that toddlin' town, Chicago], I'd love to take a break in such a well-designed space. neptune.co.uk

We Interrupt This Blog...

...to call your attention to the results of the 2012 KBCULTURE Awards. It's always a pleasure to review and recognize so many outstanding product designs.

Later this week I head to Chicago to attend KBIS, the American trade show for the kitchen and bath industries. I'll be sure to share with you any noteworthy finds.