ASPIRE DESIGN AND HOME recently reached out to several leading kitchen and design firms to discover their point of view on top trends and new developments in their industry. Their thoughtful responses delve into what motivates, inspires and excites these design pros, and how that passion ultimately breeds success.
From Lakeville Kitchen & Bath, we spoke with President Richard Sirlin.
ASPIRE DESIGN AND HOME: Where does your inspiration come from when creating stylish kitchens for your clients?
Richard Sirlin: Each customer’s unique vision.
ADH: What is the best/most enjoyable part of your position as a kitchen designer?
RS: Creativity.
ADH: If you were designing a kitchen for your own home, what would you include?
RS: Beverage center, walk-in pantry.
ADH: Is there anything you wouldn’t include in your own dream kitchen? (and why not?)
RS: Desk – invites clutter.
ADH: What are some of the most exciting innovations you’ve seen in today’s kitchen industry?
RS: Steam oven.
ADH: What technology features are your clients including in their kitchen designs?
RS: Charging stations.
ADH: How do some of these technological advances help kitchens to be more efficient or organized?
RS: Convenience, accessibility.
ADH: Which manufacturers are on the cutting-edge of the kitchen industry?
RS: Medallion, plain & fancy, cambria.
ADH: What are some popular design trends your clients are requesting for their kitchens?
RS: Two-tone kitchens, floating shelves, fewer wall cabinets.
ADH: What 2020 kitchen design trends do you think will be long-lasting?
RS: Minimalism, whites/greys.
ADH: What is your favorite meal to prepare for a crowd?
RS: Chicken parmigiana.
ADH: What is your favorite meal to prepare if it’s just for you?
RS: Seafood, spaghetti carbonara.
ADH: Which past or present interior designer has most inspired you?
RS: Most inspiration comes from coworkers/environment.
ADH: How would you describe your work style?
RS: Collaborative.
ADH: Describe your personal design style.
RS: Transitional, eclectic.
ADH: What was your first design job?
RS: Modern kitchen with mixed metals.
ADH: What is your favorite kitchen color scheme right now?
RS: Natural rift cut white oak mixed with high gloss white acrylic.
ADH: Complete this sentence: the one think i can’t live without in my kitchen is:
RS: Spice rack pullout, trash pullout.
ADH: What is the best piece of design advice you ever received?
RS: Don’t overdesign.
ADH: If you weren’t a designer, what would you be?
RS: Marine biologist, sciences.
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