Susan Serra Associates, Inc.

I think it's well done Susan. I'm happy to see that you chose to make interpretations revolving around whether or not the choices made were a function of aesthetics, convenience, or creating an enhanced social space.

I see, or at least I think I see, a divergence between those who might think in terms of creating an architectural dream space from "scratch" as opposed to those who would think in terms of modifying the environment they already have.

Solely for fun, I wanted to tell you that my "dream" kitchen is one that is partially "sunken" in relation to the rest of its surroundings but wholly exposed nonetheless -- open to everything--but still defined, still cozy, still personal, still a defined gathering space by virtue of its lower level--but with lines of sight to all the surrounding spaces preserved nonetheless.... Read More

Obviously, that's an arrangement that begins with an empty lot and an architect at hand... still it's fun to dream. :)

Michael, thanks for your point of view. You're right...a kitchen has always been a social place, in Mad Men days, at least for other women to congregate in and it grew in importance from there.

I think I see the same thing...almost those who "dare to dream", lol, toward the ultimate open space and those who may want more space than they have now.

I'm going to do more polls. I really like doing polls. Interesting about the sunken concept. And, it's another good point...to think in terms of a division between spaces that is not really a division but feels as if it is. That's a great concept, and something that is incorporated into my own plan. I like that. ... Read More

Do you like to cook?

Susan, wow, GREAT summary/essay. I like how you've distinguished your analysis between design professionals and homeowners. Moreso, I love the overall trend analysis vis a vis cultural/political/social climate.

This looks amazing- I' going to try it!

Oh, you'll love it, I promise. It's not so "pretty" but I'm finding it so useful!

Susan, thanks for directing us to these clips. I have always admired the Danes simplicity with a focus on quality. The apartment is beautiful for sure but lacked a bit of warmth for my taste. I am baffled as to why anyone would have a bathroom that didn't have privacy. The simple kitchen seemed to have everything anyone would need and put an exclamation point on 'less is more'. I wish we could have seen their downstairs space too.

I agree...that open bathroom was a first for me, but I have to say, I'm not entirely surprised, given my own experience of Danes' liberal mores, most of which I see as healthy in mind and spirit. My thinking is that, although the space itself was minimalist, warmth comes from the expansive views of buildings which are hundreds of years old, but I'd still want to see a painting or two somewhere!

SO interesting. I'm in the middle of a design where the window would work perfect for their downdraft cooktop, however, I was told by their builder that it isn't code? I should maybe look into that more closely. I think it looks amazing! :)

I would check with the building department myself if I were you. I'm still not totally comfortable with this situation, given the woodwork so nearby. But, there are also many hearth type installations with cooktops where the woodwork mantels come down right next to, or very nearby the cooktops. Doesn't mean it should be done, but this was a very interesting installation to hear about first hand.

Congratulations on attending the training. It's a wonderful time! So much to learn and great food! It's even better when after using all the equipment you can guide your clients on their Monogram selection.

Hi Jenny, OMG, using the equipment was so much fun. Between the killer range and the induction cooktop, it was very, very fun and informative!

Thank you so much, dreams do come true!