I was so impressed by the proactive approach used in the Melnick/Burton kitchen remodel that I could not let the series end without getting some general pointers from Steven (listed here, in his own words):
1. Design it yourself and design it for yourself (but show your plans to anyone whose opinion you value). Ask yourself questions...how (and what) does my family eat? More fresh foods? Consider a bigger refrigerator. Fewer packaged goods? Reduce the pantry space.
2. Spend time in kitchen showrooms. See their ideas, ask lots of questions, and take lots of notes. Our solution for hiding under-counter lighting came from a last minute visit to a European kitchen showroom. In fact, many of our ideas came from European kitchen showrooms. They know how to maximize efficiency in modest spaces and do it with style.
If you followed the first installment of the Hollywood Hills kitchen remodel, you know that Steven and Melissa saved a lot of money buying previously owned and gently used appliances on Craigslist.
But the couple's dictum has always been, "pay retail where it counts." Here's where they splurged:
1. Cabinetry - At the suggestion of their architect Daniella Carter, Steven and Melissa opted for Ikea cabinetry (approximately $6,000) instead of custom (quoted at $20,000 plus). But they did invest in a professional installer for about $3,000. According to Steven, "He was worth every penny. He knows everything about Ikea and can guide you in your purchases, help identify problem areas, and create solutions on the spot."
2. Hardware - The couple personalized the cabinetry with high-quality architectural hardware from Sugatsune.
3. Tile - Knowing that a backsplash is the focal point of any kitchen, Steven and Melissa installed a large field of white Angela Adams "corice" tiles selected from Ann Sacks Tile and Stone in Los Angeles.
Los Angeles. Las Vegas. Dallas. New York. Sound like the highlights of a cross-country road trip? Think again ... these cities are the original destinations of the appliances in this Hollywood Hills kitchen.
After a pipe burst and flooded their house, Steven Melnick and Melissa Burton embarked on an extensive remodel. Rather than pay retail prices for kitchen wish list items, Steven scoured Craigslist for deals from private sellers. Among the highlights: a new Sub-Zero refrigerator for $3,400 (retail $8,000); a used DCS duel fuel range for $2100 (retail $7100); a new Viking vent hood for $800 (retail $1,600); a used Miele built-in coffee system for $700 (retail $2,600); and a new Elkay sink and bottom grid for $500 (retail $1,100).
