Kitchen & Bath Business July/August 2023 - 23

 User-Centered. The flexible components of EKF are easily reconfigurable,
eliminating the need to commit to a one-off custom
product. The system is engineered to adapt to incremental
heights, whether it's counters or appliances that require elevating;
this attribute is good for ADA responses.
 Simplified Installation. EKF upper cabinets utilize a hang-rail
- also called a French cleat - system. This allows installers to
get the carcasses level and plumb before adding the doors and
fine-tuning the cabinets. Base cabinets feature adjustable feet,
facilitating easy, accurate leveling without using shims. The design
also minimizes water damage because the cabinet box does
not touch the floor.
 Eco-Conscious Choices. EKF manufacturers are always looking to
improve material offerings, for both aesthetic and sustainable
reasons. Brands are required to look at the entire carbon footprint
in production, from raw materials through production and
transport to end user.
 Efficient Logistics. Because they are flat-packed, EKF systems are
resistant to in-transit damage.
TRANSITIONAL DESIGN STYLE: RECOGNIZING & DEFINING
Ask four designers what their vision is for transitional style, and you
will probably get four different answers. Paula Kennedy, CMKBD,
owner of Timeless Kitchen Design, discussed that and much more
regarding this best-of-both worlds, classic-meets-contemporary
design style.
Key Takeaways:
 You can help your clients define their style by determining their
main attributes.
 Professional, active, family-oriented, creative and relaxed homeowners
appreciate easy maintenance and comfort.
 Most clients are looking for quality spaces that are sophisticated,
timeless and organized.
 With trends, there is never an all-or-nothing conversation as
they relate to style.
 Transitional design encompasses several micro styles, including
shaker, boho/bohemian, European and craftsman.
 Contemporary design incudes Art Deco, minimalist and NYC
loft styles and exudes spaciousness, confidence and energy.
 Some of traditional design's micro styles are French country,
shabby chic, cottage and farmhouse, and it is affiliated with rustic,
romantic, ornate and historic elements.
 Transitional style includes curved lines, geometric patterns,
neutral and subtle color palettes and a mix of textures, while
omitting ornamentation.
 It is a grounding style that is not overwhelming, and it exudes
comfort, practicality, relaxation and luxury.
 Cabinet doors in the transitional style have cleaner lines and are
flat and/or flush; they sometimes feature mitered edges and/or
raised panels; and they can be reeded.

By Chelsie Butler & Leslie Clagett
ABOVE This transitional kitchen by designer Paula Kennedy features
soft gray cabinets with clean, shaker stile and rail doors and
angled crown detail to achieve a harmonious blend of traditional
and contemporary aesthetics. The countertop boasts a textured
pattern and color, deviating from the typical marble veining. The
playful penny tile backsplash introduces a distinctive touch and
adds personality to the space. Photo by Gregg Krogstad, Krogstad
Photography
Kitchen & Bath Business July/August 2023

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