Some of the functional elements of the SieMatic 2 are multi-media elements, the recessed vertical grip and the interior system. Three varying depths of cabinets are available. The SF10 functionally advanced drawer and pullout system allows drawers, pullouts and doors to open simultaneously without interference. Indeed, these kitchens have been very well thought out, right down to the smallest detail.

New colours introduced in 2009 cabinetry were white, beige, green, and grey tones. These were combined with wood finishes. Lacquer colours included warm matte tones of light brown, light green, light yellow and light blue complemented by delicate tones of brown, natural green and ochre hues.

Mary Beth Duehr of SieMatic in California says, “In terms of current colour used in European kitchen cabinetry, it is the more interesting subtle tones such as flannel grey that are resonating, as well as the sleek glossy look of white and black!” The dark woods so popular in Canada are also in vogue.
 
HARDWARE

For those clients who are not ready for the handle free kitchen, there are a number of exciting offerings for high quality decorative hardware.

Topex offers their precision cut Swarovski Crystal “All that Glitters” collection which can add that important bit of sparkle to any room. Knobs come in large diamond-like shapes enhanced by an elegant chrome finish.

Richelieu Hardware showcases a delightful collection of crystal knobs and pulls in a premium brass finish. Grohe has also followed the lead with their Kensington faucets sporting Swarovski crystal handles.

Aquabrass has an exciting multi-coloured lavatory series of faucets which will be released shortly. Modern collections like “Love Me”, “Martini” and “Hey Joe” will appear in black and white, coral red, sky blue and green.
 
LIGHTING

Frequently there just isn’t adequate lighting specified in kitchens for cooking, never mind atmosphere and mood. Commonly used halogens that shine down over countertops and over cabinet fronts create a lot of heat. If misdirected, they can create glare. And, poorly positioned lights create shadows.

New trends in kitchen lighting highlight function and design. These applications are more indirect and unobtrusive. Aesthetic light sources such as wall sconces, lighting found in wall cabinets, niches or in the ceiling can distribute light wherever it is needed, including over the prime work areas.

An exciting manufacturer of lighting, Europa Lighting, has introduced cable mounted bean pendants with large organic shaped ceramic shades, 4213-UFQ. You can hang one bean or group several together. Each one will have a slightly unique character. A favourite fixture is the “Big Spin” 4236B-WH which uses concentric parabolic diffusers to create sublime indirect lighting.

To source modern fluorescent and LED products check out Wow Lighting in Calgary. For versatility and style, you will find products from Eureka Lighting, Lithonia Lighting, MP Lighting, and Visa Lighting, to name only a few. You will be wowed!
 
 
Florence Thompson, RID IDA is a freelance writer on interior design topics. She is an award-winning interior designer, the past-president of the Interior Designers of Alberta and is a principal of Romanetz Design Studio Ltd. Contact her at 403.253.2743.