Volume 32: January/February

Thank you to our wonderful clients for a fantastic 2023! 

As we move in to 2024 we are excited to share what we've seen and learned at this year's design shows. Last month we attended Las Vegas Market where we saw the latest and greatest in furnishings and color. Let us know what you think of these new furnishings and decor direct from Market.

Winter just got a lot more fun

It’s design show season!

Thank you to our wonderful clients for a fantastic 2023! 

As we move in to 2024 we are excited to share what we've seen and learned at this year's design shows. Last month we attended Las Vegas Market where we saw the latest and greatest in furnishings and color. Let us know what you think of these new furnishings and decor direct from Market.

Stayed tuned for next month's newsletter where we will share fresh to the market fixtures and appliances from KBIS (follow our Instagram for our real-time finds).  


Design Trends

If you've followed me since Milan it's still about mixing textures, interesting materials, and natural elements. It’s still curvy, baby! Fluted details, rounded corners and everything wavy continues to be seen in new homes furnishings for a couple of seasons. Think wall details, round tables, and woven materials; keep your eye out for round pillows. If you are looking for reference, Michael Taylor did it best for his California cool look in the 1970’s + 80’s. His design work continues to influence trends and inspire designers decades later.


Color Trends

Jewel tones, muted or bright, they’re here again. If you think things are looking like the 80’s, you’re right. There’s a strong Art Deco influence from the 1930's flowing through the design world. We are seeing styles and trends update every couple years now when it used to take a decade for styles to run the course. We didn’t get our roaring 20’s! 


Safety in Numbers

With the new year and holiday decorations put away (hopefully but no judgment), it is the perfect time to address how we all can make sure our bathrooms and kitchens are as safe as they are beautiful.  


Here are 5 design elements you can add to your home that not only check off the safety box, but can be visually appealing and, dare I say, elegant.

 
White subway tile shower with black fixtures and black grab bar

Grab bars

Installing these in the shower can provide stability and support for those who may have difficulty standing for long periods of time or getting in and out of the shower. I know, you’re thinking of a hospital grab but that’s not what these look like. There are a variety of styles and finishes to complement your bathroom design that are “hidden” in most of our remodels.

 

Curbless showers

These are inherently a safety feature designed for aesthetics. By eliminating the raised edge of a traditional shower, there is less risk of someone tripping and falling when entering or exiting. Curbless shower pans can be beautifully achieved with the proper floor tile and grout. Material selections matter!

Gray bathroom with curbless shower
 

Nightlights

Another simple yet effective safety feature for households with children or elderly individuals who may need to use the bathroom during the night. Think bigger than your typical plug-in nightlight (which can be useful). Hidden lights under a vanity bring a sleek look to nighttime lighting without taking up space in your outlets. Outlets are also available with built-in sensor lights for an easy hallway update. Leviton and Snap Power both have great, easy-to-install options.

 
Orange induction range with white hex tile backsplash

Induction ranges

These convenient additions to the kitchen are becoming increasingly popular due to their safety features. Unlike traditional stovetops, induction ranges have no open flame, reducing the risk of burns or fires. They also have built-in sensors depending on the model that turns off the heat when a pot or pan is removed, providing an added layer of safety.

 

Pot fillers

Adding these can be a game-changer for those with mobility issues, or really anyone that loves pasta! These faucets extend over the stove to easily pots and pans can be filled without having to carry across from the sink. This feature does need some planning as it requires a water line in the wall, so be sure to plan and consider if anyone in your household for those with arthritis or difficulty lifting heavy objects.

Blue and white kitchen cabinets with white subway tile backsplash. Gas range with pot filler.
 

Safety in the home is crucial and is easy to plan for and incorporate. We hope these five precautionary principles will help you make your rooms a safer and more convenient place for everyone in your household. Let's make this year a time for prioritizing our well-being and health.


Love anything you see here or want to find out more? Give us a call or send us an email; we'd love to chat.

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Volume 24: May

Inspirational finds near and far

Occasionally, the opportunity to travel for both work and pleasure will arise. Such was the case for me recently when I traveled to Milan with a fellow designer. Our only expectation was to take in as much inspiration as possible (spoiler alert: this was definitely accomplished!).

One of the most impressive sites was the Duomo di Milano at night, pictured above. It's mind boggling to think that this structure, as massive as it is, is only the 15th largest in the world.

Classics since the 14th Century

Marble, a truly timeless material, seen in the facade of the Duomo di Milano. Gray, always in style, don't believe everything the blogs tell you. Arches, an interesting detail we often see in the vintage homes we remodel.

Natural is always in

Curvilinear lines paired with natural stone bring both elegance and comfort.

 

BEHIND THE SCENES

Ever wonder how we get from inspiration to the finished project? After our initial meeting we follow up with a proposed floor plan. Once that is approved, we create a rendering showing you a colored realistic drawing of what your finished project could look like. 

These renderings and floor plans are shared with your contractor who then uses them to create your beautiful, updated space.

We would love to help you achieve your vision with your next project. Please reach out to us here 👇🏻!

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Before and after, Kitchen renovation Heather Kirk Before and after, Kitchen renovation Heather Kirk

Volume 18: September

Happy September!

Here we are on this first day of the month but summer is not over yet!

We want to share with you a new beginning for one of our clients.

This 1920s cottage was in need of a refresh and updated kitchen floor plan after multiple remodels through the years. We set out to meet the needs of our clients by giving them more color, light, and function to accommodate their love of entertaining and fur babies.  

 

In the kitchen, we updated the layout for better flow, installed these shaker teal cabinets, and added a touch of gold with the unique light fixture over the sink.

 

This Dutch door gives a more accessible and charming point of entry to and from the deck for the clients’ two dogs.

A simple paint treatment adds interest in the dining room, with forest green anchoring the space.

 

We created a functional focal point in the dining room by taking advantage of this existing alcove. The space was opened up and we added lighting. A built in buffet creates the perfect stop for a party spread.

 

At the fireplace wall in the living room, we added two windows to bring in more light. This added balance to the already vaulted ceiling. We took advantage of this height and raised the fireplace all the way. Shades of green (a favorite of the client) tile and a reclaimed wood mantle finish off the fireplace with layers of color and texture.

Our clients are so happy with the warm and welcoming vibe that this remodel has given them.

We were honored to submit this kitchen for consideration in the NKBA Puget Sound Chapter Design Awards this year and we won 2nd Place for Small | Medium Kitchen - woohoo!

We're currently scheduling for 2023 and would love to discuss your upcoming projects. Contact us to schedule yours.

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Volume 9: September

August brought us our first in-person event since life changed many months ago. We attended the NKBA Design Awards Gala where we were honored with a couple of awards of our own.

We’re all winners

We won! We won!

August brought us our first in-person event since life changed many months ago. We attended the NKBA Design Awards Gala where we were honored with a couple of awards of our own.

We’re especially proud of our 2nd place award for our Large Kitchen project as this category is very competitive. The projects this year were truly top-notch and on the cutting edge of kitchen design.

Madison in the Park is full of luxurious marble on the counters and backsplash with a tailored tile inset above the cooktop. State of the art appliances make meal prep and entertaining easier with a built-in refrigerator, double wall ovens, and a warming drawer. While the coffee bar with a prep sink, microwave, and second dishwasher bring ease to cleanup and morning routines.

The Small | Medium Kitchen category was also quite competitive, but we were proud to walk away with a 3rd place award for Cottage with a Tudor Accent. One of our goals was to add continuity in this vintage home by creating an arch opening between the kitchen and dining room that matched the existing arch at the dining room entrance. The contractor was also able to save the coved ceilings in the dining room. A custom wood hood and open shelving were brought in to add warmth and texture.

We are grateful for all our clients and winning awards is just a fun bonus. The trust our clients place in us and the hardworking contractors and vendors we work with make this all possible. Kirk Riley Design is definitely a team effort.

Thanks for being along for the ride!

Happy Fall Y'all!

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Kitchen renovation, Before and after Heather Kirk Kitchen renovation, Before and after Heather Kirk

Volume 5: May

When we are designing a kitchen remodel project with our clients, we often mention that there is going to be a lot less of something in the new space. It could be fewer windows, less floor space, heck, even less cabinetry which sounds a little crazy. This new void allows space for a whole bunch of new wonderful. This kitchen remodeling project was no different.

We love a good before and after

No More Little Drawers

When we are designing a kitchen remodel project with our clients, we often mention that there is going to be a lot less of something in the new space. It could be fewer windows, less floor space, heck, even less cabinetry which sounds a little crazy. This new void allows space for a whole bunch of new wonderful. This kitchen remodeling project was no different.

Working with previous clients is always a fantastic bonus. These clients were no exception, especially since the wife knew exactly what she wanted. I don’t mean the exact hardware or range, but she knew exactly how she wanted it to look and feel. That was ideal as they were open to design solutions but were quick to stay on track and focused.

Here’s what we focused on:

  • Gray color palette with natural wood for warmth.

  • An island with seating and a nice big sink with an Insta-hot faucet.

  • Open shelving for style and display for family keepsakes.

  • Traditional style cabinetry with custom features.

  • Black as an accent in hardware and lighting.

  • All new stainless appliances.

  • Removing the soffit above the cabinets to add a feeling of spaciousness.

  • Closing the window without a view while keeping the abundance of natural light in the home.

Is there anything I would change? Nothing. I’m never a fan of an icemaker in the refrigerator door, but you try arguing with native Midwesterners about their ice.

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Volume 2: February

The clients purchased this 100-year-old Craftsman for its charm and character. However, none of that was in place in their 1980s kitchen. A leak from an upstairs bathroom caused them to fast track their kitchen remodel which proved to be a big undertaking.

A Special Update to a Classic

This month we are sharing a unique kitchen we lovingly call the Blue Plate Special.

Read through to the bottom for a sweet Valentine's treat.

The clients purchased this 100-year-old Craftsman for its charm and character. However, none of that was in place in their 1980s kitchen. A leak from an upstairs bathroom caused them to fast track their kitchen remodel which proved to be a big undertaking.

 

With a love for vintage styling and a fondness for handcrafted materials, we mixed bold, simple, and classic elements. Adding an island with seating for everyone gives them a place to come together for baking, eating, and good old story time.

 

The paneled appliances playdown the high-tech feel of stainless. While the tiled vent hood adds character and enhances the ceiling height.

Friends and family can gather in the kitchen, sit down for a meal in the open dining room, or continue out to the backyard through their relocated French doors.

 

Sharing one of our favorites

 

During a "normal" year, we like to get together with our girlfriends and celebrate Galentines. Even though we can't spend time together in the way we would like, we are still going to enjoy the treats! Being mindful of dietary preferences and needs, this tart from Bakerita has become a favorite. It's an elevated and tempting twist on chocolate covered strawberries.

If baking isn't your thing, we highly recommend Flying Apron here in Seattle for delicious Valentine's brunch.

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Volume 1: January

A touch of Palm Springs landed in the Pacific Northwest giving our client the modern amenities they desired in a kitchen with a nod and a wink to the past.

Kirk Riley Design featured in 1889 Washington's Magazine

We made it to 2021!

We are starting off the year with our first newsletter and a look back at a kitchen renovation featured in 1889 Washington’s Magazine.

A touch of Palm Springs landed in the Pacific Northwest giving our client the modern amenities they desired in a kitchen with a nod and a wink to the past.

The original pink backsplash and pale blue appliances in this 1950’s kitchen were in need of a fresh take. Bright white quartz countertops and a matching backsplash in varied textures and finishes were installed giving the kitchen a more modern and functional vibe.

Slab front cabinets in a mixture of wood and glossy white added to the overall casual glam mood of the new kitchen. We continued to tackle the storage issues with the addition of the coffee station in the nook while creatively working around the baseboard heating elements that are original to the home.

 

New oak hardwood floors keep the design of the kitchen grounded while the pop of color from the Bertazonni oven counterbalances the cool wall color and oodles of natural light. Our client is thrilled to create healthy meals in this charming new space!

We truly hope you and yours are safe and healthy. While the pandemic has created some challenges, it does not stop our creative process. Working with local showrooms, vendors and tradespeople allows us to keep the design ball rolling and bringing our clients wishes to life.

We look forward to working with you!

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