Top 5 at KBIS 2011 | Las Vegas Kitchen & Bathroom Industry Show

At this year’s kitchen & bath show, minimalist design continued to be popular. There were strong indicators that people are looking for softer classical styles and a more comforting look. Aesthetics were more natural and organic.

1. Robern | Vanity Storage |

Incredibly practical construction for bathroom vanity storage. The slim design creates more possibilities for sink and faucet selections. Above the drawers, a LED night light casts a soft glow in the middle of the night that is easy on the eyes. The vanity lends a sense of visual spaciousness with a modern appearance.

2. Ann Sacks | Visage Tile |

Inspired from 18th and 19th century antique mirrors. The soft grey casts a silvery depth on its antiqued glass. It was absolutely stunning! The slight shimmering would glamorize any room, perhaps in a powder bath, cigar room or library. A perfect tile application for backsplash. Quality reflects high-style.

3. Wetstyle | Freestanding Bathtub |

The new Be Collection bathtub rediscovered nature with a nutshell shape. Simple silhouettes detailed with a subtle peaked seam for spine support. Modern contemporary design, a true natural beauty. I personally tried out the tub during the show… it’s already added to my wish list.

4.  TOTO | Wall-Hung Dual-Flush Toilet |

TOTO, an industry leader in plumbing products, is known for its high-efficiency toilets, faucets and showers. I constantly look for quality products with reliable performance.  This Aquia wall-hung dual-flush toilet features SanaGloss ceramic glaze. Its design prevents debris and mold from ceramic surfaces which leads to less water in cleaning. Best-in-class flushing technologies with EcoPower faucets and flush valves harness the energy of moving water. TOTO contiues to be one of the top requested bathroom plumbing manufactures.

5. Samuel Heath | Bath Filler & Shower Valve

Its timeless approach created this classic bath filler with handheld and thermostatic shower valve. Intricately crafted pieces designed and made in England. Beautiful plating deposits with layers of finishes This ensures a perfect adhesion to produce a deep lustrous long lasting finish. Finishes available in antique gold, chrome plate and polished nickel. The antique gold is quite a jewel, unlike an average brass.

We stayed at Las Vegas Encore Wynn Hotel, designed by Roger Thomas. It has a dramatic cinematic presence. The rooms were heighten with vibrant colors and sense of balance.

We end our Las Vegas day at La Cave restaurant with a few old friends from the UCLA Architecture Interior Design Program. We tasted many savory plates in this luxurious hideaway. All my friends have been wonderful over the years as we share our experiences and design secrets. We had a lovely time and hope to be back very soon.

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Playa del Carmen

The Tides, Riviera Maya

Just returned from Riviera Maya in Playa Del Carmen. One of the most relaxing trips we’ve taken. It was raining and thundering for a few days, the mood was enhanced with serenity. Lounging by the private plunge pools alight with candles, I feel like a royalty.

Bedroom suite… the style manifests itself in a white, organic, open-plan layout. The rich-grained hardwood warmed up and softened by comfortable furniture. A sense of true visual harmony.

9 Exterior and Interior Design, Worth Noting…

I came across these interesting buildings while on a walk. What better way to spend a day exploring cities than with a cup of cappuccino and camera. Small streets with boutique store entice me. I’m addicted to fine caffeine and architecture. For exterior colors and material specifications, many inspirations often come from old buildings and homes. The adventure starts at a Hermes boutique in Cleveland, continues on the streets of Toronto and concludes back home  in San Marino, California.

1. Chagrin Falls, Ohio. So dreamy…

2. Financial district, Toronto Canada

3. Entertainment District, Toronto Canada

Modern bridge nestled between traditional buildings

4. Near Art Gallery, Toronto Canada

The wood and iron crafted sculpture is very intriguing.

5. Entertainment District, Toronto Canada

I sense massive potential for it to come alive!

6. Distillery District, Toronto Canada

Picture speaks volume, minimal sinage.

7. La Bettola Di Terroni, Toronto Canada

A well executed restaurant design. Mixed materials of rustic refined elements.

8. King Street East, Toronto Canada

Time for refuel… handsome building, bold and daring.

9. City Hall, San Marino California (Hometown)

Subtle elegance with classic architectural details.

Napa/Sonoma Valley, California: Hotel + Restaurant Design

The Carneros Inn., Napa Valley

A Plumpjack Resort

The resort interpreted early California farms with modern authenticity. Artfully and comfortably furnished. The room is cleverly designed to maximize comfort and minimize space. One of my favorite parts is where shower area leads to an alfresco shower and a private lush garden. No worries, heat lamps for a cool evening. Umbrellas for shade with a flowering garden. It’s a refreshing modern cottage. The safe box is hidden on the bottom of nightstand, great location placement.  During Spring, the weather can get a bit windy. Grab a book, kick off your shoes and light up the fireplace!

Vinyard Cottage

Each indoor space opens to unite with the outdoor space, expanding the living experience to the outdoors. It’s an exclusive getaway.

The neutral color palette harmoniously combines with its outdoor landscape. The experience was unpretentious yet vibrant. We definitely enjoyed the scenic apple orchards and endless rows of grape vines nestled among farmland.

EAT…

Boon Fly Cafe

There’s no better way to start the morning then with mini home made donuts and a cup of Americano! The space kept the similar quaint feel as the Carneros Inn. Both sites are on the same premises. The design is a refined barn house chic. Clean and fresh reflect its delicious menu.

Italy Shopping

Roaming around Florence..

Flea market hunting…

Window Shopping in Rome…

Continue to be inspired…