Episode 52 The Kitchen Whisperer
Paul McAlary ‘The Kitchen Whisperer” discusses a caller’s kitchen design. He and Gina review changes to the peninsula and vent issues, suggesting solutions like removing drywall and using furring strips. Paul explains the benefits of 42-inch cabinets over 30-inch ones, estimating a cost savings of $5,000. They discuss the durability of stained versus painted cabinets, recommending stained for longevity. Paul also advises on countertop materials, favoring quartz for its durability and resistance to heat. He suggests using a lighting system to adjust cabinet colors. Paul emphasizes the importance of proper design for kitchen functionality and value.
Action Items
- [ ] Explore options for addressing the issue with the pipe chase, such as making the cabinet front deeper or recessing the wall cabinets.
- [ ] Measure the depth of the existing shelves next to the refrigerator.
- [ ] Incorporate a fake cabinet front on the pipe chase and potentially add a cork board or chalkboard surface for notes.
- [ ] Discuss with the general contractor the possibility of lowering the ceiling by 3 inches to address the window casing issue.
- [ ] Provide the design to the local cabinet company the client had been working with and have them price it out.
Outline
Paul McAlary’s Introduction and Initial Design Feedback
- Paul McAlary introduces himself and explains the purpose of the call, which is to discuss further changes to a kitchen design.
- Gina expresses gratitude for Paul’s design work and calls him “The Kitchen Whisperer”, noting the significant improvements over the past 18 months.
- Paul shares a humorous anecdote about his reputation within his company, highlighting the differences in expertise among designers.
- Gina acknowledges the transparency of Paul’s expertise and the brilliance of the design provided. Paul comments that all good designers will be kitchen whisperers.
Discussion on Kitchen Design Challenges
- Gina brings up a specific issue with the peninsula next to the sink, noting the difficulty in aligning it with the vent and the existing bookshelf.
- Paul suggests potential solutions, including removing the drywall to assess the situation and possibly turning the studs sideways.
- Gina questions the return on investment of these changes, considering the extra work involved.
- Paul explains that while the changes would improve aesthetics, they would not increase storage space, suggesting simpler alternatives.
Detailed Design Adjustments and Solutions
- Paul proposes using furring strips and a fake cabinet front to address the protruding vent issue, emphasizing the minimal cost and effort involved.
- Gina expresses interest in utilizing the space creatively, suggesting a thin corkboard for notes.
- Paul agrees, noting that such a solution would be both functional and inexpensive.
- The conversation shifts to the peninsula countertops, with Paul explaining the design decisions made to accommodate the wine refrigerator and other appliances.
Countertop and Storage Space Considerations
- Paul details the dimensions and layout of the peninsula, including the depth of the cabinets and the placement of the trash can pull-out.
- Gina confirms the measurements and discusses the potential removal of a small wall section to increase space.
- Paul explains the importance of maintaining a 30-inch walkway for ease of movement and appliance access.
- The discussion includes the placement of the stove and the design of the lower cabinets, with Paul suggesting the use of spice racks and utensil drawers.
Designing the Pantry and Additional Storage
- Gina inquires about designing the pantry around a step, and Paul provides a detailed plan involving double-depth wall cabinets.
- Paul explains the cost-effectiveness of using wall cabinets compared to a custom pantry cabinet.
- The conversation touches on the height of the pantry and the potential need for a platform to support the cabinets.
- Paul suggests using a vinyl replacement window to address issues with the window casing and ceiling height.
Final Design Adjustments and Cost Considerations
- Paul discusses the benefits of using 42-inch cabinets instead of 30-inch cabinets, noting the significant cost savings.
- Gina expresses interest in the timber finish for the lower cabinets and white for the upper cabinets. She is seeking advice on durability.
- Paul explains that stained cabinets are more durable than painted ones, especially for bottom cabinets.
- The conversation concludes with Paul advising on the selection of countertops, emphasizing the durability and maintenance requirements of different materials.
Gina’s kitchen below
Overhead view
Perspective
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Paul
Paul’s bio from the magazine Kitchen and Bath Design News:
Paul McAlary possesses a voice that resonates far beyond the boundaries of Philadelphia’s western suburbs and the city’s prestigious Main Line – the location of his well-established Delaware Valley design firm.
McAlary, president and senior designer of Bala Cynwyd, PA-based Main Line Kitchen Design, is an internationally recognized kitchen design authority who has won more than a dozen local and national design awards, including being named a 2017 Viking Appliances Designer of Distinction.
Beyond his achievements as a designer, McAlary has also forged a burgeoning reputation as the creative force behind the “Main Line Kitchen Design Blog,” a unique online forum and social media resource that is read by more than 40,000 people each month and has been honored as one of the top kitchen design blogs in the world. Main Line Kitchen Design’s videos and blogs address a wide range of kitchen/bath-related topics aimed at sparking a constructive exchange of ideas among both consumers and design professionals.
McAlary, whose kitchens and comments often appear in trade magazines and on social media sites, is sometimes at odds with the kitchen design establishment, but he maintains a distinct sense of humor and is known as a fierce advocate for design standards, ethics and transparency in the kitchen design trade.
Subscribe to Main Line Kitchen Design’s Blogs and podcasts here.
