Last fall I instructed the certification program for Interior Decorating at the local college.
During my lectures I tried to sprinkle in tips for the students on running a design business.
One of them was the importance of collecting inspirational images to inspire both themselves and their future clients.
It got me thinking about how important my process for collecting inspiration has been for my design career.
In todays post I will outline how my Vestabul Design inspiration library has evolved over the years and why I believe it is important
Continue reading “The Importance of Building a K&B Inspiration Gallery”
As a Kitchen Designer, a big part of your skillset is designing with wood products.
Early on in my career I began expanding my product knowledge by incorporating mouldings and millwork into my kitchen designs.
My first design project beyond Kitchen cabinetry featured wainscoting.
I had inserted a desk into a niche and that wainscot panel was the little something needed to tie that area into the rest of the kitchen.
The client loved it and that project gave me the confidence to expand my product offerings beyond cabinetry.
Read on to learn about the history of wainscot and how you can creatively incorporate it into your Kitchen Design Business.
Continue reading “Elevating Your Designs with Wainscotting”
Color is a powerful design element in any form of design, and kitchen design is no exception.
The choice of colors you choose for your kitchen designs can greatly influence its ambiance, style, and functionality.
Understanding the role of color in kitchen design is essential for creating a space that reflects your client’s personal taste and fulfills their practical needs.
In this VESTA Blog, we will explore the significance of color in kitchen design.
Continue reading “The Role of Color in Kitchen Design”
Taking kitchen cabinetry to the ceiling is a growing trend in kitchen design.
Now that cabinet manufactures offer a variety of wall cabinet heights it is much easier to get this look.
This design choice, often seen in both modern and traditional kitchens, has its fair share of proponents and critics.
As with any design decision, there are pros and cons to consider when deciding whether or not to take your client’s kitchen cabinetry to the ceiling.
In this VESTA Blog, we will delve into the advantages and disadvantages of this design approach, helping you guide your client to make an informed decision for their kitchen space.
Continue reading “The Pros and Cons of Taking Kitchen Cabinetry to the Ceiling”
In the world of kitchen design, creativity and aesthetics are just one side of the coin.
To truly succeed, kitchen designers must also have a firm grasp on the business aspect, and that includes tracking sales statistics.
Keeping a close eye on key sales metrics can provide valuable insights into the effectiveness of your strategies, the satisfaction of your clients, and the overall health of your kitchen design business.
In this VESTA blog post, we delve into the sales statistics that every kitchen designer should track to ensure both professional growth and client satisfaction.
Continue reading “Essential Sales Statistics for Kitchen Designers”
As a professional kitchen and bath designer, I am always on the look out for unique products to recommend or incorporate into my design projects.
And it is really exciting when I find something truly innovative.
Recently, I met an entrepreneur who had a great idea and has developed a unique product for the kitchen industry.
Her name is Megan Aycock and she is the founder of Homi Hardware.
She has developed a line of appliance handles that can be installed on most standard appliance brands to give that on-trend custom look.
Continue reading “Products I Love: Homi Hardware”
For me, a successful kitchen design is one that really functions.
My focus on function began when I was studying Home Economics at University many years ago, but grew as I spent more time in my own kitchens.
I have been fortunate to have designed multiple kitchens for myself and with each one I learned the importance of designing a kitchen that related to my kitchen related hobbies.
In today’s VESTA blog I will discuss how gardening, or specifically my kitchen garden has influenced how I design functional kitchens for my clients.
Continue reading “How Hobbies Can Make You a Better Kitchen Designer”
Kitchen design has come a long way over the years, evolving from a purely functional space into the heart of the home.
The transformation of kitchens throughout history reflects not only changing aesthetics but also shifting societal values, technology advancements, and culinary preferences.
In this VESTA blog post, we’ll take a journey through time to explore the evolution of kitchen design and how it has profoundly influenced the modern kitchens we know today.
Continue reading “The Evolution of Kitchen Design: Shaping Culinary Spaces”
When most of us think about Kitchen Design, the first thing that comes to mind is the aesthetic look of the room.
What is the color on the cabinet doors? What does the backsplash look like? What is the pattern on the countertop? What type of floors were installed?
All of these things contribute to the overall look of the Kitchen, but the Professional Kitchen Designer should also pay attention to how the interior of the Kitchen looks.
Let me explain.
Continue reading “Why Your Kitchen Designs Should Look as Good on the Inside as the Outside!”
Most designers have studied the Elements and Principles of Design when getting their design degree or diploma.
The Elements: Space, Line, Shape, Texture, Light, Color and Pattern are the tools the designer uses to create the visual enviroment.
The Principles: Scale & Proportion, Balance, Rhythm, Emphasis and Harmony are the basic rules for achieving the goals of design.
When I take on a design project, the Elements and Principles of Design always play a part in achieving the look I am after.
Read on to see how the Elements and Principles of Design played a big part in the design of this project.
Continue reading “Kitchen Design Case Study: A Square Inspired Design”
Many consumers want their kitchens to be as unique as they are.
They don’t want “cookie cutter” design but they also want to keep costs in check.
One innovative way to achieve this is by integrating antique or vintage furniture pieces into your client’s kitchen design.
By blending traditional and contemporary elements, you can create a unique, functional, and inviting kitchen designs that suits your client’s lifestyle and aesthetic preferences.
In this VESTA Blog we will explore how to do this and hopefully inspire you to include furniture pieces in an upcoming kitchen design.
Continue reading “How to Enhance Your Kitchen Designs with Furniture Pieces”
In recent years, kitchen design has evolved far beyond its utilitarian origins, with a growing emphasis on aesthetics, functionality, and convenience.
One significant trend that has gained prominence in contemporary kitchen design is the incorporation of a designated beverage zone.
This innovative addition to the kitchen offers a multitude of benefits, making it an indispensable feature for any homeowner undertaking a new kitchen project.
In this VESTA Blog, we will explore the many reasons why your kitchen designs should include a designated beverage area.
Continue reading “Why Every Kitchen Should Include a Designated Beverage Zone”
Jan Rutgers
