Why choose a kitchen designer … Choosing to work with someone who not only can draw cabinets but can design a fully functional space for you is important. Working with a designer will give you options for your appliance locations to make the most out of your kitchen. The kitchen isn’t just a room anymore; it truly is the heart of the home where people congregate each day.

What’s “in style” …. Traditional, contemporary, rustic, Tuscan & country. I still see mostly traditional and Tuscan, but contemporary is starting to see its way into Southern Utah. Wood species such as alder, cherry, mahogany, walnut are among the most popular in this area. Darker stained woods {browns, blacks & reds} are often used in homes today, along with custom painted cabinets. Creams and blacks are the most popular and classic painted finishes that are used today. Most of the finishes are not just one step, most homeowners want something with depth and character which can be found through glazing, dry brushing, and different levels of distressing.

Make it standard …. Lucky you most cabinet shops have moved forward in function and offer many “old” upgrades as their standard. Blum’s softclose drawer glides {BLUMOTION} with under mount hardware are the Mercedes of drawers, while Blum also makes door hinges that are soft close. This small feature will truly be your saving grace when doors & drawers cannot be slammed!

Accessories of your dreams … There are now several options for areas of your kitchen and bathroom that were wasted space before. This pivot-out blind corner unit is very popular and creates usable space in the corner of your kitchen. Another popular accessory is found in the bathroom where a false drawer front had no function. Now that false front can tip out & house this blow dryer & curling iron storage unit. This is so simple but truly innovative in bathroom space, plus it is a Utah based product. Roll out shelves, double roll out trash cans are always a favorite and are in all the homes I design. Spending a little extra for these “extras” is worth it down the road.

Hide those appliances … 90% of my clients want to integrate their appliances keeping the furniture look throughout the kitchen. Integrated fridges can now be found in master closets, bathrooms, casitas, offices and theater rooms … keeping cold drinks and treats just where you need or want them. There are several options when it comes to brands of appliances that can be fully integrated, but there are definitely brands that make it easier to be hidden over others. Sub-Zero’s 700 series are fully integrated and shows absolutely no metal or grill allowing the homeowner to come up with any furniture look they want.

I love what I do & love working with clients from the beginning. The best recommendation I could give to anyone building a home is to get into your kitchen designer first thing. Get your plumbing & electrical right from the start with your appliances & sinks so that you don’t have to make changes when the house is framed. I have clients I have worked with for less than a month from start to finish and others who are going on two years. Each job seems to bring a new challenge and new way for me to be creative.

ASHLYNN MITCHELL
Senior Designer

www.riverwoodsmill.com