It’s Called Connection
 
Have you ever walked into a perfectly appointed room AND. IT’S. JUST. LIFELESS?
 
The color scheme works, the furniture is right, the décor and supporting architecture works – but the space still feels somehow flat or it is missing that ‘special feeling’ or ‘connection’ that makes it unique. Usually, the reason is a lack of design texture.
 
A Defining Factor
 
A trained interior designer knows that textures and surfaces are the very thing that make a room memorable and unique. Effectively using textures is a defining technique that elevates design to the next level.
 
What exactly do interior designers mean by “texture”?
 
In interior design terms, texture is defined as, “the sensations produced by surfaces of objects when touched.” Think about the feeling when walking across a soft carpet as the shag surface tickles your toes, running your hand along a rough-hewn railing, or cuddling up on your billowy soft couch with your favorite blanket.
 
You don’t even need to have physical contact with a room to feel the power of texture. We all have an intimate deep connection to our “sense of touch” and associations with how something feels.
 
Texture plays much more than a supporting role in the function of a space. Texture not only brings a sense of completion to a space; it’s what makes something feel like home and is vital to a design’s success. Think of it this way, imagine trying to cuddle up for movie night on a sofa made of stone."Consider how texture will elevate the overall experience of your design, and how it makes you feel within that space."

Texture can add some weight to your space
 
Using texture to add some visual weight to a space simply means that an object – or space as a whole – has the ability to draw attention to itself. Rough textures for example, are more likely to make a space feel intimate or familiar while slick, smooth textures can make a room more aloof.
 
I always consider the placement of textures as I design a space. If I want to highlight a rough texture, I will often put a smooth texture directly next to a rough one. It will make the rough object stand out more and give it a weightier feel than if I space them apart.
 
Balancing Textures
 
Contrast is essential when it comes to design; it maintains a sense of balance and also provides visual interest. If everything is too similar, the room seems flat or uninteresting. Using texture is a great way to make sure the most important elements pop.
 
But, try not to go too texture-crazy; it’s important to strike a balance. I often stick to two or three distinct textures in any given space. I choose three when I want people to take in the space as a whole and two when I want to emphasize a prominent focal point.
 
Texture is even more important if you’re working within a color palette where the shades are very similar. When I’m designing with a monochromatic or analogous color scheme, I choose items that provide a heavy contrast. This will bring a sense of harmony to the space.
 
OK great, but what can I do at home using texture?
 
It doesn’t always take a total redesign to employ the uses of texture to enhance your space. Here are a few simple ways you can use texture in your space:

• Architectural Elements: If you’re fortunate enough to have crown molding, chair rails, or tray ceilings in your home, make them a focal point.
• Furniture: Rough-hewn wooden benches, velvet seating, and or marble tabletops all can bring a distinct feel to a space. 
• Decorative Items: Framed family heirlooms, collectables neatly displayed or even flowers could be used.
• Floor and Wall Coverings: An artfully placed throw rug or even a patterned wall design will bring depth to the room.
• Textiles: Using interesting textiles for things like slip covers, throw pillows, and even blankets is a fun easy way to make the room pop.

A lifeless room…
Here’s an example of a lifeless room; however 2001: A Space Odyssey was a good movie!

Good use of texture…
This room embodies good use of texture; it exudes warmth and contrast. The rough textured band on the wall is an appropriately scaled accent.

Textures for a New Kitchen Design...
Here is a mood board for a kitchen I am designing, using the Prodigy brand of semi-stock cabinetry I carry. The wood grain cabinetry for the island contrasts with the smooth white finish chosen for the perimeter cabinets. The window treatment textile, the countertop and the metal screen provide interest visual interest and texture.

Too much texture...
While a good proportion of texture can add interest to a space, it’s important not to overuse it as shown here. This room lacks any place for visual rest. 

Kitchen cabinets are the focal point of your kitchen. Choosing the right cabinet can make or break the look you are trying to achieve. So, where do you begin? With a bewildering number of choices and options, here are some considerations.

Not all cabinets are created equal!
 
Cabinets fit into three broad categories, stock, semi-custom and custom.
 
Each type has its strengths and limitations, and here are a few:

1. Stock:
   1. quick delivery,
   2. standard sizes and colors, little customization or inserts available,
   3. good for investment properties, multi-family and budget residential,
   4. many are cheaply made overseas and today are more expensive than American-made ones, due to current tariffs,
   5. contemporary-style doors may be laminated paper on MDF, not wood veneer on MDF, or a solid wood slab door,
   6. sides may be particleboard/laminated wood grain veneer, not plywood,
   7. doors are usually painted (some with standard highlight or glaze) or finished soft hardwoods like poplar or birch.
2. Semi-custom:
   1. turnaround is about 4-12 weeks,
   2. more options for finishes and box sizes, interior fittings/accessories, moldings,
   3. some will match painted cabinets to national brands, such as Sherwin Williams or Benjamin Moore paints,
   4.  wood species are typically maple, hickory, quarter sawn or plain sawn oak, cherry,
   5. can be painted, glazed; contemporary doors feature thermofused melamine board or wood veneer over MDF,
   6. used in high-end multi-family or mid-range residential.
3. Custom:
   1. turnaround time could be 12 weeks or more,
   2. custom door designs, wide variety of interior fittings, custom moldings,
   3.  custom/exclusive paint matching,
   4. plywood box, not particle board,
   5. widest wood species availability: walnut, exotics, eucalyptus, plus the species noted above,
   6. used in high-end residential client who desires a fully unique look.

 
The bottom line – regardless of the cabinet level you choose, make sure your purchase meets industry standards, so you enjoy maximum durability, beauty and return on your investment.

How KCMA Separates the Good from the Bad
 
Confirm that the cabinets you intend to buy meet standards established by the Kitchen Cabinet Manufacturers Association (KCMS).  Look for a KCMA label on the inside of a stock or semi-stock cabinet door.  Ask custom cabinet manufacturers if they meet KCMA standards.
 
Established in 1955, KCMA is the recognized education and research leader in the cabinet industry.
 
The KCMA has a five-point durability test all cabinets must meet to earn the KCMA stamp of approval. The tests measure cabinet/shelf strength, drawer slide and hinge durability, finish stability, and the ability to withstand temperature changes and high heat.
 
There are three weight tests that measure the strength of cabinet shelves, joint integrity, wall cabinet load bearing capacity, and a cabinet bottom’s ability to sustain common kitchen impacts, such as dropped cans.

How Cabinetry Addresses Sustainability and Safety
 
In recent years manufacturers and interior designers have worked together to develop products with an eye on sustainability and safety guided by the Environmental Stewardship Committee Certification (ESC).
 
Established in 2006, cabinet producers meet standards for manufacturing: 

1. Low formaldehyde-emitting components
2. Product provenance from sustainable forestry programs
3. Energy conservation, active recycling of post-industrial products

The Formaldehyde Question…
 
Designers get a lot of questions about the relative safety of formaldehyde a naturally occurring substance in plywood, an integral product in cabinet making.  Its effect on health is still being hotly debated, however, here are some important issues you need to be aware of when dealing with wood products:

• The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classified formaldehyde as a human carcinogen.
• Since 2013, all pressed wood sold in US must be California Air Resources Board (CARB) compliant. CARB emission standards are world’s lowest
• Most formaldehyde off-gassing dissipates over two years’ time

Final Thoughts
 
Keep in mind that out of your estimated budget for kitchen remodeling, typically 30% -40% of your budget will be allocated to the kitchen cabinets Although bargains are possible, short-term cost savings may mean you sacrifice the quality and service you deserve in the long run.
 
Whichever approach you choose, it’s important to consult an experienced kitchen design professional like Lyons-Archer. We can guide you through issues of Sustainability / Safety, Quality, Style and Savings to ensure you create the kitchen of your dreams.

As Lyons-Archer Kitchen and Interior Design celebrates its 10th anniversary this year, I am proud to have created a design firm that offer a unique, curated kitchen design experience. I carry River Run stock cabinetry, Prodigy and Woodland semi-stock cabinetry, and Prevo custom cabinetry, so I can provide an individualized design, purchase and specification process for the discerning client.
 
Please contact me for other services, including bathroom and office design, space planning, couture draperies, window coverings and upholstery.  I can be reached at info@lyonsarcher.com, or at 215-860-5059!

Prodigy Cabinetry
Prodigy Cabinetry which is carried by Lyons-Archer incorporates ¾” plywood cabinet boxes; its durable door offerings include textured thermo-fused melamine board over MDF. The slab door shown here is Syncron, Ice Cream Shown.

Solid wood slab door
Here’s an example of a solid wood slab door from Woodland Cabinetry, which I represent. This particular door is made from solid alder, and highlights the beautiful gentle graining that species provides. It is available in cherry, maple, oak and hickory in a variety of stains, paint colors and glazes.

Custom Kitchen
This Prevo kitchen is currently underway in a 100-year-old Cape Cod home. With Prevo, I completely customized the cabinetry to meet the home’s special dimensional needs.  I also was able to meet the client’s specifications for particular Benjamin Moore colors to match a favorite painting.

September is the time for seasonal changes. Children are returning to school. Leaves are falling from the trees. And pumpkin spice season is in full swing.
 
For me, autumn is a chance to switch up home décor – and I don’t mean throwing a couple of gourds on the table!
 
The changing colors of leaves are the perfect inspiration to update the heart of your home.
At the top of my list this year? Fun, vibrantly colored appliances, reminiscent of the colors of fall.​
​

​​​
​Although neutral kitchen appliances have dominated kitchen design for years, bold hues are making a major comeback.
 
Keep reading for my tips on making this trend work in your space:
 
Pops of Color in Appliances
 
For decades, stainless steel has been the go-to for everything from refrigerators and stoves to toasters and tea kettles. It was clean, neat, and oh-so neutral – a far cry from the brightly colored pastels of the 50s and harvest golds of the 60s.
​

Photo courtesy of AGA
​

But as they say, everything old becomes new again. Homeowners today are experiencing a bit of “stainless fatigue” and color is back on the rise. People want to get away from the cookie-cutter, show home look and add in a little fun.
 
Black and white are quickly gaining in popularity, but so are unexpected hues like red, midnight blue, and even avocado green. Many high-end, quality brands are now offering whimsical colors in addition to their standard fare. And along with their beautiful design comes high functionality.
 
Choosing the Right Colors for Your Kitchen
 
When choosing the finish for your kitchen’s appliances, there are several factors you must consider including your overall décor and your reasons for buying new appliances. For instance, are purchasing a replacement piece? If so, your new appliance should complement existing equipment. Cabinetry, floor, lighting, and more should all play into your decision.
 
You may choose to use color for all your kitchen appliances or just one or two for a whimsical touch. If you have the budget and don’t mind updating often, purchasing a large piece (like a refrigerator) in an unexpected color might be the right option for you. If you want something that is going to stay on-trend a little longer, black or white might be the way to go.
​
I like to recommend AGA kitchen appliances to my clients looking to make a bold, eye-catching change. The luxury brand (which manufactures premium quality kitchen appliances, including ranges, ventilation hoods, refrigerators, dishwashers, and more) offers colors as wide ranging as Pistachio and Aubergine to Matte Black and Pearl Ashes, so there is something for everyone.

Photo courtesy of AGA
​

​It’s important to note, however, that you don’t need to “go big or go home” when it comes to color. Small touches here and there can have a huge impact. Several appliance companies, like Blue Star, have introduced hardware, hinges, handles and more in interesting finishes such as brushed copper, brushed black, and a variety of more unique hues.
 
There are also smaller appliances that are affordable, fun, and easily replaceable when the time comes. This can be done with something as prominent as your range hood or as inconspicuous as a blender or toaster.
 
Get Started Today
 
There are many options available to homeowners who want to individualize their kitchens today – and vibrant appliances, whether they’re large or small, can really stand out and create a striking space.
 
Are you feeling inspired by the colors of the season, just like me? Reach out to learn how we can add some fun to heart of your home, just in time for the holidays!

​For more information, call 215-860-5059 or email info@lyonsarcher.com, and follow me on Instagram, Houzz, and Facebook for all the latest design news! ​

If you’re like me, you feel like summer has just started. Yet here we are, already in August!

​Before you know it, the weather will be cooling down and the kids will be headed back to school—virtually or in person. And, whether you work inside the home or out, it can be a struggle to keep the kitchen under control on those hectic mornings. 

​Organizing your space for your busy life is the first step in making those days run smoothly.
 
Want to know how? Take cues from professional chefs and think about your kitchen in stations. 

Organizing Your Home Kitchen
 
Have you ever been in a commercial kitchen? It likely had a prep area, several cooking stations, a pass through, and a dish washing station. Your home kitchen also has several areas designed for specific functions: A range and oven, a sink, storage spaces, and likely, a spot where you prep meals or plate food. You may even have a bar or a seating area. 

​​Also called “work zones” or “work centers,” these areas of your kitchen are designed to house the equipment and ingredients necessary for a task, and also take into consideration the space and work surfaces best suited to those tasks. 

Let’s look at some of the most common stations in more depth: 

Prep Station
 
A prep station is the work center where food is prepared prior to a being cooked. You may use this space to wash, peel, chop, measure, or mix ingredients.
 
A prep station should:

• Be close to the refrigerator, the sink, and the cook top
• Have ample counter top space for working
• Provide easy access to items like cutting boards, knives and utensils, and mixing bowls
• Be within reach of commonly used ingredients and seasonings

 
Note: If you have a small kitchen with limited storage and counter space, a kitchen cart can be a viable alternative to a dedicated prep station. 

​Cooking Station
 
As the name implies, the cooking station is where the food is cooked. The primary tasks here are stove top cooking, baking, and roasting. In homes where a lot of baking is done, you may choose to have a separate station exclusively for that purpose.

​A cooking station should:

• Be centered on the kitchen’s stove/oven
• Provide counter space on either side of the cooktop as a staging area
• Include storage for pots, pans, bakeware, and commonly used utensils
• Be within reach of commonly used seasonings, such as salt and pepper
• House appliance garages to host large appliance (such as a stand mixer) if space allows

 
Cleanup Station

The cleanup station is where items used during the preparation and cooking of the meal are cleaned.
 
A cleanup station should:

• Be centered around the kitchen’s sink (or primary sink if you have two)
• Provide storage for items such as sponges, dish soap, and towels
• Include counter space to collect dirty dishes and allow for air drying clean dishes
• Be convenient to all other workstations including Prep and Cooking

​Eating Station
 
The eating station is where family, friends and guests can gather to eat, rather than cook.
​

​​An eating station should:

• Provide countertop space or a separate table where people can dine or snack
• Be within reach of dishes, flatware, and glasses
• Have easy access to the refrigerator and pantry

 
Planning Your Kitchen’s Workstations
 
Now that you know what workstations are and how the work, the next step is to plan out your kitchen.
 
Start by determining the total space available in the kitchen, as well as the traffic patterns through the room. In a professional kitchen, food funnels from storage to prep to cook – it’s likely that’s how things move in your kitchen as well.
 
Home kitchens are almost always designed around a triangle, which connects the refrigerator, sink, and range: It enables that storage/prep/cook flow to happen smoothly.
 
As noted above, many workstations have certain requirements in common that should be taken into consideration. For example, both the prep station and the cooking station should have easy access to commonly used utensils and spices, and both the prep station and eating station should be near the refrigerator.
 
In addition, while it’s traditionally not placed in the triangle, storage should be easy to access and well-organized.
 
Final Thoughts

Having your kitchen organized into different stations makes it easy for multiple people to be in the room at one time – without getting in one another’s way. 

​Call on me for kitchen design services, to purchase quality, US-made kitchen, and bath cabinetry and for installations.
 
For more information, call 215-860-5059 or email info@lyonsarcher.com, and follow me on Instagram, Houzz, and Facebook for all the latest design news! ​

​​Worldwide, multiple generations living under the same roof is the norm. These days, it’s becoming commonplace in America, as well. 
 
Sixty-four million people, or 20% of the U.S. population, live with older loved ones. With the baby boomer generation rapidly aging, that number will only increase. 
 
The reasons for choosing this route are many: Saving money, helping parents age safely, and warding off loneliness are just a few. Often, multigenerational living calls for a renovation. With the proper design, homes can serve their owners longer and can comfortably accommodate loved ones from other generations and life circumstances. 
 
Here are some tips for adding functional, attractive renovations for multigenerational living circumstances: 
​

Successful multi-generational living spaces accommodate older generations while also keeping children and grandchildren in mind. Luckily, many elements of universal design benefit both the very old and the very young.   
​

While some blended households have multiple kitchens or an additional kitchenette, most do not. Here are a few elements to consider, including in the latter situation: 

​

• Kitchen islands can provide extra space for food preparation and gathering.

 

• Rolling cabinets offer extra space and are often accessible whether sitting or standing.

 

• Pocket doors are easy to maneuver and take up less space than hinged doors.

 

• Using drawers, instead of doors on base cabinets, makes it easier to see everything inside and requires users to move fewer items to get what they need.

 

• Under-cabinet lighting facilitates meal prep for everyone and doubles as a nightlight.

 

• Installing counter tops at varying heights makes it easier for multiple cooks with varying abilities to work at the same time.

 

• A second dishwasher or refrigerator in the primary kitchen accommodates a larger household.

​Most families who embark on this journey experience many benefits, such as having extra hands to help with children or to pitch in with the cooking. However multi-generational living is achieved, it can create a greater sense of family community. 
 
Contact me if you are thinking of remodeling your home to support a blended living situation. We will work together to design a layout that accommodates a wide range of needs and wants without sacrificing beauty or functionality. 
 
Ready to start your renovation? Reach out today and set up your free consultation so we can discuss your particular needs.
​
​

As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, working-from-home (WFH) has gone mainstream. And when the world eventually opens up, remote work might last a lot longer than people originally thought.
 
Many companies, such as Facebook and Twitter, have told employees they can work from home indefinitely – and others are following suit.
 
Unfortunately, 1-in-4 people who are currently working from home have had to make do with a dining room or kitchen table serving as their home office. If you don’t have a dedicated work-from-home space, now is the time to make it happen.
 
Here are some tips for creating the home office of your dreams – one that’s functional, suits your overall style—AND  look good on your co-workers' ZOOM screen.
  
Dedicated Work from Home Spaces
 
Design trends come and go, but your goal should be to create a space that’s not only comfortable but fits your design aesthetic – whether you want a full home office or just a dedicated nook in the den.
 
At a minimum, your workspace should have a personal computer, a printer, and some storage space. But your home isn’t a corporate environment and it shouldn’t feel like one. Finding the balance between functionality, comfort, and style is key.
 
As your design expert, I can help you discern your needs and implement them in the best way possible – from lighting to layout (and more).
 
Lighting
No matter where you plan on working throughout the day, good light is key. During our design process, we create the best lighting plan with optimum lamps (a.k.a. light bulbs)  for your daily needs: fluorescent, LED, or halogen.
  
Work chairs
Ergonomic desk chairs may be good for your back, but they don’t often integrate well into a home without making it look like a scene from “The Office.” Luckily, when you know what to look for, it’s easy to find something that is both comfortable and fashionable.
  
Layout
Home offices come in many different shapes and sizes. You need enough space to work comfortably, but it’s common to underestimate exactly how much space that really is. Here are some general rules of thumb:

Desks 
Standard desks are usually 29 to 30 inches in height, and 48, 60, or 72 inches wide. If your desk is free-standing, it’s important to allow enough room to walk around on all sides. Built-in desks offer the same functionality as others but are more customizable. 

​Computers
​Computer dimensions vary greatly and continue to change. Whether you have a PC or a laptop, it’s likely that it will have to be replaced every couple of years – so  it’s best to keep that space flexible.

Printers
Printers also vary in size, but you can count on yours taking up at least 18 to 24 inches of space. In addition, you’ll need to allow room for doors or drawers that open on the top, sides, or back. 

Storage space
Remember predictions of the “paperless society?” Hasn’t happened yet, hence the importance of filing cabinets. They can take up considerable space in your home office. At a minimum, a two-drawer letter-size file cabinet is at least 15 inches wide and 30 inches in height. Many people are choosing to use a nearby closet for hidden file storage instead. I can help you determine which option is right for you.
​
Shelving
​Shelving units vary greatly, but the most common type is 12 inches deep and 14 to 16 inches high. Built-ins can create a homier feel in your office, but greatly reduce available space and flexibility of your space plan.

Seating
You should allow roughly 48 inches square for your own desk chair – but what if you have guests or clients stop by? An extra chair will take up about 40 inches square, while a love seat could be about 40 inches deep and up to 60 inches wide.

Personal touches
Your dedicated workspace shouldn’t be all about work. It’s an extension of the rest of your home. Personal touches, such as photos and plants, can make it feel more like you.
 
Lyons-Archer--Your Cabinetry and Installation Source
Planning a home office takes a lot of work. I can make it easier. Through my partnership with Prodigy Cabinetry and Woodland Cabinetry, I am able to offer a selection of pre-designed offices at a great price point, and quick delivery.
 
Here are just some examples:

Photo courtesy of Prodigy Cabinetry

Earlier this year, right before Covid-19 quarantine took hold, I inhaled deeply and stepped forward to become a Prodigy Cabinetry dealer. 
 
Designed in Spain and manufactured in South Carolina, Prodigy is a frameless cabinetry line, embodying a streamlined, contemporary style that is quite popular with Europeans and South Americans, and quickly acquiring a following among my US clients.
 
And later this year, Prodigy will unveil a frameless line with traditional door styles, for homes where only a traditional look will do.
 
It was important to me to offer a quality cabinet product directly to my clients - and to trade professionals, too.  As a dealer with minimal overhead, I can provide stylish, well-made furniture for kitchen or bath, home office or family room confidently and quickly.
 
This new service enhances Lyons-Archer’s ability to offer you a complete “carefully curated” design experience.
 
“Carefully curated” is more than just a slogan to me. It means that whatever I specify, suggest, install or procure for you is considered best of the bunch for your taste, your setting and your preferences. 
​

​Lyons-Archer Kitchen and Interior Design, Flemington, NJ, client

I’ll be telling you more about Prodigy in the days and weeks to come.  Check back for updates!
 
Here’s a list of my products and services, so whether you want to proceed now with a virtual consultation (small or extensive), or on-site solutions coaching once we emerge from this quarantine, you’ll know whom to engage to “carefully curate” that special slice of heaven you call home.
 
Services:
Kitchen, Home Office and Bath Design
Kitchen, Bath and Office Cabinetry/Installation
Interior Design and Space Planning
Couture Draperies Design/Installation
Window Shades, Cell Shades, Blinds, etc., Sales and Installation
Upholstery and Slipcovers
Lighting

​Lyons-Archer Kitchen and Interior Design, Cherry Hill, NJ client

​Products:
Kitchen and Bath Cabinetry
-Prodigy Cabinets
-Woodland Cabinetry
-Artizen Cabinetry
 
 
Textiles and Trim, including:
-Robert Allen, Beacon Hill, Duralee
-Kravet, Lee Jofa, Brunschwig & Fils
-Stout Brothers, Cath Kidson, Marcus Williams
-Fabricut, Trend, Stroheim, Vervain

​Photo courtesy of Brunschwig & Fils

Rugs and Window Covering Products, including:
-Worldwide Window Coverings
-Hunter Douglas
-Kirsch Hardware
-JF Hardware
-Brimar
-Brunschwig & Fils

​Photo courtesy Brimar, “Nolita” Draperies Hardware

Contact me at 215-860-5059 or info@lyonsarcher.com for more information, and follow me on Instagram, Houzz, and Facebook for all the latest design news! 

​Have you been dreaming of an outdoor kitchen? Don’t wait! As the weather warms up, a backyard cooking space is the perfect place to escape the heat. 
 
Barbequing has been America’s pastime since the 1950s – but summer entertaining has come a long way since then. The charcoal grills and backyard hibachis of the post-war era have been replaced by sophisticated design elements and high-tech appliances. Many outdoor kitchens have the same conveniences available inside, if not more.
 
Whether you’re building a new house, or only making better use of the space you have, now is the time to make your dream kitchen a reality. 
 
Here are five things to keep in mind during the planning phase so you can have a well-designed and long-lasting outdoor kitchen: 
 
Function. As with any design project, it is essential to consider the purpose of your space. Will you be using your outdoor kitchen for entertaining and gathering? Will it be a space for you and your family to relax during the long summer days? Or would you like to use your outdoor kitchen throughout the year? Once you have answered these (and other) questions, you can begin to decide which elements you’d like and need. 

Courtesy of DeckRemodelers.com.
​

Surroundings. Today’s outdoor kitchen is an extension of the indoor living space – however, it also needs to fit into your yard and landscape. As you imagine your dream kitchen, think about your home’s exterior and the surrounding environment. Any design elements should mesh well with both. 

Courtesy of K&C Land Design and Construction
​

Location. Most outdoor kitchens are situated close to the house – often an extension of the central (indoor) kitchen. This placement allows for easy access to utilities such as gas and water lines and electrical wiring. If this isn’t of concern for you, still keep in mind:  

1. Sun and shade.
2. Natural space. Do you have a beautiful garden? A pool or hot tub?
3. The view. You might have a gorgeous outdoor kitchen, but if guests are facing a brick wall when they sit down, it’s all for naught. 
4. Space. Don’t have a lot of yard to work with? Building your outdoor kitchen on the roof or deck is a very viable option!

Courtesy of Coastal Home Cabinetry
​

Layout. The layout is just as crucial for an outdoor kitchen as it is for an indoor one – and it might be MORE important! When it comes to an outdoor kitchen, there are a lot of things to consider:  

1. Dining area. If you plan on entertaining in your outdoor space, consider the gatherings you’d like to have. Will you want a full dining table? A bar? Perhaps a television or a fireplace? 
2. Lounge space. When you’re planning a dining area for outdoors, it’s important to consider the weather and environment. Not only should you and your guests be protected from direct sunlight, but also rain, wind, and other elements. Likewise, lighting, ventilation, and pathways/walking areas are all critical. 
3. Cooking area. Like your indoor kitchen, the appliances and cabinetry you choose for your outdoor space are a significant investment. Splurge on the items that you’ll often use – like a quality grill and refrigerator – and remember to make counter space a priority! Everything, from work surfaces to storage spaces, needs to be durable and waterproof. 

Courtesy of Far Hills Design Build
​

Who to hire. At Lyons-Archer, I can assist you with planning, specifying your outdoor kitchen and partnering with the right specialists, including architects and landscape architects. 
I will guide you every step of the way, from budgeting, to design, to installation.
 
The right kitchen starts with the right plan. Whether you’re a homeowner with a dream or a contractor on a mission, I will help you create a beautiful, peaceful haven, right at home.
 
Reach out today to schedule your free telephone consultation: 215-860-5059.  Lyons-Archer serves Bucks County, PA, and the greater Princeton, NJ, area. We are a Prodigy Cabinet dealer: ​https://prodigycabinetry.com/

With COVID-19 forcing people to stay at home and refrain from “non-essential” activities, you may be wondering if moving forward with your planned kitchen renovation is a good idea.

The answer? YES! The time has never been better.

Finding the time to tackle home improvements can be difficult under the best of circumstances. Being homebound, however, does have its advantages: This is the perfect opportunity to spruce up your living space.

Virtual Kitchen Design Consultations

Despite the challenging circumstances, you can use this time to design the kitchen you’ve always wanted. Even though we can’t meet face-to-face during social distancing, I can help you create the kitchen of your dreams through a virtual consultation.

Prior to the coronavirus pandemic, in-person meetings were the norm. But it’s become clear that online or telephone consultations are just as good (and often much more convenient for time-crunched professionals and multi-tasking families).

In fact, online design and problem solving are something that I will continue to offer to clients in the future as they ultimately provide more flexibility!

What to Expect

Before our online meeting, I’ll ask you to send me photos of the space you want to work on, as well as measurements. Don’t worry if you don’t know how or what to look for – I’ll walk you through the entire process!

After we set up a time to ‘meet’, whether it’s online or over the phone, we will discuss ideas, budget, and the entire design-and-development process.

We’ll exchange dynamic, 3D renderings for your review. And once a plan is agreed upon, I can also provide a rough estimate of your installation costs for your budgeting needs. We can begin the purchase and scheduling as time and circumstances allow.

Why Use Lyons-Archer?

You don’t want a cookie-cutter kitchen in your home – and now is the time to dream big! This is a great time to think about how we can design your space to work better for you and your family.

Cabinets form the backbone of any kitchen, and as an independent kitchen designer, I take pride in the brands that I offer. For example, my Woodland, Prairie and Artizen lines provide classic or contemporary American looks. These lines are all family-owned businesses and made in South Dakota.

My newest cabinet product line, Prodigy, offers sleek European styling, is designed in Spain, and manufactured in the South Carolina. 
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​In terms of the kitchen and bath industry, the 2020s are drawing inspiration from the 1920s in a big way. 

​Glitzy, opulent and luxurious, this year’s design trends are inspired by, and improve on, styles that existed 100 years ago. But before we delve into the “how-to”, let’s take a look at the Jazz-Age style,  known as “Art Deco”.  

Art Deco—More than Crystal, Lacquer and Gold

As shown in the film, The Great Gatsby (2012), Jay Gatsby’s mansion is perhaps the most popular icon of Art Deco style--cascading crystal chandeliers, omnipresent gold accents, exotic animal print textiles, and lacquered, rectilinear furniture.

Art Deco originated in France as a reaction against Art Noveau’s organic design themes, stylized imagery and delicate furniture. In contrast, Art Deco, known as “Le Style Moderne” in France, was influenced by Cubism (think Picasso). It drew on wild colors used in unusual ways, African and Middle Eastern themes, and extravagant Parisian stage sets. 
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It was heavily adopted by upper-class clients who admired Art Deco for its strong geometric themes, expensive and sophisticated finishes, and waterfall details, making it an elitist interior design movement in Europe.

​Once it jumped the pond, however, many elements were diffused into furnishings for middle-class clients, which still can be seen in many US vintage stores. Here are some examples of European Art Deco interior design...

Textiles-Repeat, Repeat, Repeat

Textile patterns were dense and vividly colored, to the point of being discordant. 

​Unusual color combinations were frequently used in fabrics, wallpapers and tiles, and design elements were very graphic and closely positioned.  From a distance, viewers thought they were seeing abstract patterns, and only upon closer inspection, did they discern distinct design elements. 

​Interiors Replete with Luxury and Sophistication

​All the Art Deco elements check off in this room, and it’s no surprise, because the room was designed by Emile-Jacques Ruhlmann, the best-known “Le Style Moderne” interior designer. 

Velvet upholstered walls, a crystal bead wedding cake chandelier with matching sconces, a burled wood console, and lavish gold accents are Art Deco hallmarks.

​The densely patterned, round rug’s diamond shapes echo the same in the tufted wall pattern, further uniting the design elements.

​The photo below was taken aboard the SS. Normandie, the premier ocean liner of its day.  Words fail to describe the beautiful bas relief on the elevator wall.  Even though every square inch of the wall is covered, the effect is still elegant. 
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Design historian Judith Gura could have been describing this wall in particular when writing about Art Deco in “The Abrams Guide to Period Styles for Interiors” (2005): “ …almost every surface of the space is decorated, but in a manner so subtle that the overall effect, despite its richness, generally stops short of ostentation.” 

 …almost every surface of the space is decorated, but in a manner so subtle that the overall effect, despite its richness, generally stops short of ostentation.” 

'​20s Glamour Today

So, here are a few inspirations if you aspire to infuse your kitchen and baths with the unique glamor and appeal of the 1920s.
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--Use tiles with strong graphics. Tiles with prominent designs become the focal point of a powder room, or of a backsplash for a range or bar area. The Ann Sacks “Ermanno Pavone” tile glamourizes the dense “fish-scale” pattern popular in the 1920s by exaggerating the pattern, and applying sophisticated silver and gold contrasting finishes on black or white porcelain tile. 

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​If you have a larger area to cover, an arabesque-shaped design, suits the '20s mood. Arabesques tiles, as shown here, give a nod to Art Deco’s exotic sensibilities.  
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--Use a chevron or herringbone pattern for your wood floors or floor tiles.  In the 1920s, many wealthier homeowners opted for these wood floor designs to differentiate their homes from ones with commonly used strip or parquet flooring.

Thankfully, our technology and expertise has expanded our access to unique floor patterns, so that the glamour associated with this look is affordable, and the options are extensive.  
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 And here’s some design trivia: the slightly staggered planks in this kitchen floor identify it as a herringbone pattern. The tile pattern in the next photo is laid in a tight point, indicating a chevron pattern! 

​--Gild the Lily.  Not really—I’m not into covering flowers with metals.  But I am into dressing up cabinetry  or other finishes with bright, metallic hardware. 

Whether burnished or bright, brass, gold, silver and other metals were heavily used during the '20s to create wall screens, lighting, table and chair legs—the list goes on and on. 

Depending on the object, metals were paired with luxurious stone to create even more glamor. For an updated take on this look, Ann Sacks “Alabaster Collection” tiles are paired with bright brass trim to create a look whose beauty rivals anything found on the SS. Normandie! 

​Bright metallic pulls and knobs look especially smart against dark painted cabinets, as in the photo below. 

​Opt for bright metallic for your fixtures. Or, take a look at fixtures that embody the Cubist forms admired during the Art Deco era, such as this Laura Kirar bathroom console with legs, for Kallista.  Cubist elements abound here. 

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--Introduce luxurious metallic seating. Comfortable bar stools, with soft velvet upholstery, especially one that recalls the streamlined elegance of the era, are a quick and easy way to bring in Gatsby sensibilities to your space.  

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--Use stone accents in novel applications or  accessories. Asher Gray Stone is a marble with strong vertical lines that can be installed to suggest an elegant waterfall design in a bath or powder room.

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The lamp below embodies the ‘20s penchant for exotic animal prints, rectilinear lines, and exotic wood and expensive stone. 

​This Vanrenen GW Design features a solid tulipwood base, finished in simulated malachite, shaped like an obelisk.  Topping it is a tortoise shell lampshade, hand-painted to look like the real thing. 

Thank you for joining me as we explored ways to update your home with one of the most popular revivals for interior design.  Please let me know what you think about this article by posting a comment below. 
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Reach out to me for assistance with your kitchen, bath or general interior design. I work in all styles, whether your taste is contemporary/modern, traditional, or something in between.

Lyons-Archer Kitchen and Interior Design provides kitchen/bath and interior design services, cabinetry sales, and installation.  Use me as resource for  new furniture, upholstery, slipcover, window coverings and couture design for draperies.

Call me at 215-860-5059, email me at info@lyons-archer.com, and check out my website at www.lyonsarcher.com; please follow me on Instagram, Facebook and Linked-In. 

About Tina Klucsik

Tina Klucsik, founded Lyons-Archer to share her lifetime of experience in the interiors industry with her clients. 

Tina grew up working in her family’s upholstery and interiors business.  She applies her business experience to ensure her projects adhere to the established budget, and are delivered on time. 

And her work is creative, functional—and beautiful. 

Clients choose Tina for her exceptional sense of color, knowledge of textiles, and her ability to make their personal design concept a reality—whether that reality centers on a bank of windows, a kitchen or an entire home. Tina has earned or been awarded the following degrees, certifications and awards:


Certifications and Awards

• Interior Design Degree, The Art Institute of Philadelphia
• Associate Kitchen and Bath Designer, (AKBD)
• Residential Interior Design Certified (RIDCQ)
• Outstanding Achievement Award, The Art Institute of Philadelphia,
• Specialist, Window Fashions Certified Professionals Program (WFCP)
• Master of Journalism, Temple University; writer, specializing in Interior Design