In the spotlight

Everyone has a wish list for their new kitchen, but it takes a talented designer to pull it all together.

The two award-winning kitchens shown here highlight the creativity and professionalism of NKBA (National Kitchen & Bath Association) members. Both the designers were recipients of awards in the 2008 Georgia Chapter of NKBA Calla Design Competition.

Becky Sue Becker, CKD, of Designs by BSB, won the Large Kitchen category with the kitchen shown above. This kitchen was also a finalist in Hadco's Designs that Matter contest.

Becker says the kitchen, which was designed for easy entertaining, features two islands one for food preparation and cooking, and one for serving and casual seating.

Soft white cabinets on the room's perimeter feature a warm glaze, while the food prep island is in cherry wood. With their turned posts, valance toe boards, heavy base boards and corbels, the cabinets have a distinctive furniture look.

"Viking stainless steel cooking and refrigeration appliances show that this client is serious about cooking and entertaining," says Becker. "The appliances include double microwaves, ovens and warming drawers."

Pull-out spice racks, double trash bins, tray storage and a pull-out pantry ensure the kitchen is also well organized.

Jim Meloy, CKD, of Kitchen & Bath Concepts, won the Small-Medium Kitchen category in the NKBA contest.

Meloy's kitchen, shown above, was designed for a client who wanted an updated, warm look. As the kitchen was rather small, the design needed to maximize the space while providing plenty of storage.

"We chose a rich brown stain and glaze on cherry for the cabinets, and paired this with deep wine-red granite countertops," says Meloy.

The kitchen also features professional stainless steel appliances, a beadboard ceiling and a decorative, custom-tiled backsplash that links the material and color palettes. The backsplash features rhomboid tiles in glass, marble, stone and porcelain.

For details on the NKBA, phone tollfree (800) 843 6522. Website: www.nkba.org.

To contact Designs by BSB, phone (404) 456 8799. To contact Kitchen & Bath Concepts, phone (770) 442 9845.

Story by: Trendsideas