bath remodel, but there are some unspoken rules to go by even during the exciting whirlwind of choosing products.
kitchen
D e ta i l s m a k e t h e k i t c h e n o r
special promotion
2011 If you’ve ever argued with your partner or spouse in front of your designer or contractor, well, then you must be going through a kitchen or bathroom remodel, says one renowned kitchen designer who is known as the “design therapist” to his clients. Renovations can turn your daily routine upside down for a limited amount of time—but rest assured, says the design therapist, it’s all worth it in the end. “There are moments of stress on people during a kitchen and bath remodel; I especially try to avoid talking to homeowners on the phone because they will talk behind their partner’s back and point fingers at them for any design decisions or problems,” says the therapist. No doubt, there are numerous details that need to be addressed regardless of emotions, but that’s why the world is blessed with kitchen and bath designers and professionals who smooth the way. Another kitchen and bath design specialist in Manhattan says that inevitably, no one remembers to inquire about the service elevator. New Yorkers may want something done pronto, but that can be a tall order if the elevator is out of service for maintenance. “A service elevator might go out mid-install, or it may be too small to fit a certain appliance, countertop, or cabinet,” says this long-time Manhattan kitchen and bath professional. “It always happens with oversized refrigerators.” The best advice? Talk to building management, or at least to the doorman.
One more issue a New Yorker needs to think about? “Don’t order an electric appliance when all you have is gas,” says this specialist, who has seen this sort of flub happen again and again. “Gas appliances are limited so it can affect the design of a kitchen.”
Just remember—every penny you spend and every decision you make—or change—is worth it when the result is a lovely, updated space that makes you smile. B y M a r i ly n Z e l i n s k y- S ya r t o
&
bath buyer’s guide
K&B_SP_1011_REV1.indd 53
9/14/11 3:17 PM