Nancy’s Picks at K/BIS 2008

by: Nancy Hugo, CKD

Like 45,000 other designers, builders and the like, I make the pilgrimage to Chicago in April to see what new and exciting products, appliances and trends were being introduced at the Kitchen and Bath Industry Show.  After perusing 600,000 square feet, well most of it anyway, I chose some of my favorite products, if money were not an issue, that I would put into my home tomorrow.   

The Most Useful in my opinion was the Brew Express, a built-in-the-wall coffee system, introduced in 2005.  Easy to install, small enough (rough-in is 8.5” x 10” x 4” high) to fit in the backsplash of any kitchen or coffee bar, the Brew Express self-fills from a dispenser bottle and pump under the counter or plumbed in the wall from a cold water supply line.  There are two outlets on the front of the unit, a programmable timer/clock and a stainless steel carafe.  You can choose from a 12-cup, 10-cup or 4-cup unit.  Prices range from $289 to $449.   Gotta have one in my office !

The Most Green and beautiful flooring and countertops are made from the mesquite tree exhibited by Living Elements, a Texas based company.  Mesquite is a legume, and, when harvested, the root system and trunk remain – very much alive – to be harvested another day. I was not aware of all the interesting properties of mesquite, but it certainly fits into the practical and sustainable list of materials we should be using.  Check out their website www.livingelements.com. Great item for leeds points

The Most Whimsical item found at the show was the Vanity Watch Waste from Murano House.  Hand-made in Italy, the watch comes with precious stones set into the timepiece.  The case is made of waterproof, stainless steel and has a high-impact glass covering the face.  The complete assembly including a 2-year warranty priced at $550.  Impressing your friends – priceless!

The Most Rejuvenating item is theProSun Sunshower, a device that uses ultraviolet lamps and filters giving the user a tan and a daily supply of vitamin D while showering.  Optional LEDs can be added to the unit at time of order reduce the appearance of aging, fine lines, enlarged pores and wrinkles.  Damaged skin cells are repaired and replenished and stimulated to produce collagen.  The complete shower unit ranges from $10,900 to $13,400, not including installation.   A must have for anyone over 30!

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Nancy Hugo, CKD is an independent Certified Kitchen Designer specializing in interior residential remodeling and new construction design in the Phoenix metropolitan area.
Nancy is well known for her aesthetic qualities as well as functional designs. Working closely with her clients, Nancy develops their ideas and dreams into a reality.