Nirmada: Interior Design in New York City

Greater New York Picks of the Week
Special Pricing for Nirmada’s clients

Six paneled screen by Phillip Lloyd Powell

German Sixties Starburst Chandelier

A Pair of Mid Century Armchairs in Tibetan Lamb

Spindle Sofa by George Nakashima

Pair of Custom Robsjohn-Gibbings Arm Chairs

George Nelson walnut dresser mfg. Herman Miller

It seems that we’ve been asked to work on a number of Kitchens lately, and these are the trends we’re noticing as they relate directly to the current economic situation.

With the economy worsening, but with hope at a high due to a new Administration and spring coming just down the road, what is the forecast for kitchen design in 2009?
The forecast for Kitchen design in 2009 includes timeless (not trendy) design, energy efficiency, and environmental responsibility. As has been the case for the past few years, sustainable materials, environmentally friendly finishes, and energy star appliances are top of the list.

How does this mix of fear and hope play out for those who are planning a kitchen renovation?
The mix of fear and hope seems to play out in color, accessory, and appliance choices. Clients are making choices which will endure throughout the life of their home, carefully considering function and durability. Overly adorned and embellished trims and moldings are gone, in favor of simple, modern looks which are at the same time not too commercial looking or overly sterile.

And, these conditions being only 4 months or less old? Previous trend watchers who published a forecast for 2009 before September could not have predicted our current situation.
Despite a nagging sense of fear, consumers still have a sense of expectation and style. While being more cautious, our clients are still expecting high style and quality, even more so now, as clients understand their Kitchen will need to last a lifetime, or contribute to the resale value of their home.

What are consumers now looking for?
The most desired element for our clients is storage, storage, storage. Clients who were possibly “upsizing” a year ago, are rethinking how they can make their current space work more efficiently. Perhaps because we typically work with Manhattan clients, appropriate and abundant storage is at the top of everyone’s list. Cabinets with special and specific features, such as pull out under-sink drawers which accommodate cleaning supplies, etc. are mandatory. Wine storage is also often required as an integral part of the kitchen. SMART technology is something we’re providing more of for busy professionals. Software allows the client to start the oven from the office, or convection-cook dinner from their iphone in the taxi.
Energy Star certified appliances are must-haves, as clients are now more conscious of electricity usage and bills.

What about quality? What type of quality do consumers now want in their materials?
Our clients want convenience and quality. Granite countertops are yesterday’s news, as we’re now using stain-resistant, anti-bacterial products such as Caesarstone to give a sophisticated look, with a maintenance-free finish. As environmental concerns have been raised about granite’s radon levels, savvy clients are seeking viable alternatives. Environmental concerns also have clients requesting low-VOC cabinet finishes, with formaldehyde free components.

Is a professional designer important to hire?
A professional designer is a must, when attempting any project as in-depth and specialized as a Kitchen. A designer has the resources and experience to advise you on the best available products, materials and appliances for your kitchen. A designer can protect you, by making sure your vendors are charging you appropriately and giving you what you need and want, rather than what’s going to make them the most profit. Beware of Kitchen Design Centers which claim to offer “free” design services, as these places typically only carry certain manufacturers, and charge a hefty mark-up on their goods to cover their design costs. A good designer can also help you choose a good contractor, and work on your behalf to make sure your project ends up looking like what you expected it to.

Every day Nirmada scours the planet to stay current on what’s out there on the market – new or otherwise. Each week we bring you our New York favorites, ALL at special prices for our customers. For inquiries on any of these pieces email: ansha@nirmada.com.

Picks Week ending 23-Jan 09:

Tormod Alnaes Rosewood & Leather Armchair

Pair of Knoll Walnut & Cane Twin Headboards

Florence Knoll Sofa

Rare Charles and Ray Eames Screen

Stilnovo Chandelier

Rene Gabriel desk

The mavericks of modern, Room and Board just introduced their ’09 collection. With a nod to mid-century, R and B has created a line which one again brings high style to the mass market.

The collection is based on a “made in America” dictate, with 85% of the pieces originating from family owned companies.

There are some obvious nods to Eames, Knoll, and Wormley, but we like the fresh interpretation, and practical application in today’s market.

With a new President and a new hope in the air, it’s time once again to appreciate American craftsmanship and value, and we think Room and Board has created a perfect design vehicle with which to embrace change!

Today, as everyone recovers from the over-indulgence of the New Year’s celebration, we’re recovering some favorites from the past year.

Our go-to furniture and textile manufacturer of ’08 would definitely be Knoll. This year, Knoll celebrated 70 years as the leader in home and office furnishings, and introduced a revolutionary new luxury textile collection called Knoll Luxe. Combining fashion and home furnishings, Knoll called upon fashion designers Proenza Schouler for their Fall ’08 collection.

Using Knoll Studio and systems furniture collections, we created some much needed office space for the RCS Experience Store here in NYC on Madison Ave. Knoll does this in a streamlined and sophisticated way, which doesn’t distract from the retail element, but adds to the sleek, technical feel of the space.

From office to home, Knoll has something for everyone. For a high-profile residential client of ours on Central Park West, we used Knoll’s studio collection to create the minimal and modern, yet comfortable feeling the client was looking for.