Wednesday, July 8, 2009

Blogging and Design with Susan Serra, CKD

(image courtesy of Susan Serra)

Linda and Joni are joined by Susan Serra, aka The Kitchen Designer to chat about blogging and kitchen design. Megan was on vacation this week.

18 comments:

Terry said...

This is great but I can't get myself to commit to 36 minutes. At first I wanted the 17 minute broadcasts to be longer. Now 36 minutes is too long.

Oh well your short attention span listener doesn't have much of a suggestion. Maybe you should make 10 minute chunks and keep us in suspense. The final chunk could include links to the whole conversation.

Editing / scripting takes much more effort than just recording so I'm glad that you just get it out here.

Terry said...

P.S. I think a dining sofa is a great idea, kind of a cozy half-booth. Dining chairs and stools aren't for long term comfort. Folks can doze or snuggle a little on Susan's sofa. What's for dinner?

susan said...

Thanks so much Linda and Joni for inviting me to chat with you on The Skirted Roundtable. It was a real pleasure and an honor.

As for the sofa, let me tell you, it is SO comfy and has so many lifestyle uses, not the least of which is to dine in a comfortable way! Having the typical sofa (tied) support as opposed to a hard bench under the cushion makes all the difference! You're right...take a nap, read, laptop lounging, after dinner comfy conversation/lingering, hang out with the baby, it's so lovely to experience. Glad you like the idea Terry!

Dianne said...

You girls are great and full of ideas that I love...but...I agree with Terry. It's hard to commit to so much time. Shorter is better. My friends and I have all discussed this and feel the shorter posts are much more "do-able". Love the Saturday Shorts.

Kathysue said...

Great pod cast.Susan really knows her business. Her suggestions were helpful and inspiring. I like the way she emphasized working with the individuals taste and desires and not with the trends. Kathysue

Boxwood Terrace said...

I really enjoyed this podcast. Susan really knows her business and it was great to hear about alternatives to granite/marble counter tops. And, regarding real estate salespeople, here in the Northeast, all I see in the listings is "granite and stainless kitchen" and yet, most of the homes/condos (except high end) have cheap poorly made Home Depot cabinets. Deborah

Susan (Between Naps on the Porch) said...

Interesting post! Unfortunately, it confirmed my worst fears...that you pick something (like Tuscan) and your room is dated in no time. I take forever to make up my mind and when I finally, finally go with a sofa or countertop or whatever, I usually love it and still love it 10-15 years later. I think most folks, even if they could afford it, don't want to redo their kitchens too often, so we need to really love what we choose...a lot! :-) Enjoyed very much hearing Susan's advice and recommendations! Love you guest post...I always learn so much!
Susan

jonimendez said...

I am really glad you decided to give a bit more time to this subject than others. There are themes that can be covered in a short amount of time but I feel this was a true gift to those who really want to know what it happening in kitchen design. I love the questions and insightful comments that directed the dialogue. THANK YOU!! Joni, I love your kitchen and home. I think the future is not what is "in" rather each individual's self expression and the art of creating a loving environment in our home that reflects personality and personal taste. I guess what I am trying to say is that you are right on!!
You all are awesome!!!!!!!!!!!!
joni

Terry said...

This podcast inspired me to blog about Joni's open kitchen problem. The post is meant in all good will and good humor. Oh yes, I've solved the problem, if you'll just bring your checkbook.

Lylah Ledner said...

Excellent post....I'll be referring to these thoughts and conversation again and again...

You guys are FANTASTIC

diana said...

I listened to this as I cleaned up my house and loved all 36 minutes of inspiration. I especially appreciated the 5 year paradigm of making your design choices.
Thank you for all of your hard work and for giving this gift to us.

laurie @ bargain hunting said...

Great post! Love that sofa at the breakfast table idea and wish I could incorporate that idea in my home. Thanks for a very informative pod cast. lauarie

Lauren said...

oh see i have to say- i love the longer podcasts.. i might not get it all in during one sitting but i'm ok with going back to finish... i love the depth of the subjects when the podcasts are longer...

Grimaud said...

I think the old "I don't want to expose my guests to dirty dishes" is a cop out for those who have segregated kitchens. I know because until recently I had a segregated 1926 servants kitchen in my RO home.Dirty dishes can be hidden in an exposed kitchen by using a 12" deep sink or the butlers pantry if you are not having your party catered - if so - the caterers clean as they go - they are in uniform - all is seamless.(Better yet - put in high voltage outlets in your cleaned out garage and set them up in there)Don't use that tired excuse for not opening up your kitchen to your guests. As for "trends" - don't follow trends at any time. Like Haute Couture - express your own unique desires in your kitchen. Kitchen trends are like ready to wear fashion - by the time a look or an idea trickles down to the masses who wear ready-to-wear it is already passe.Love that enormous stainless Viking range but can't afford the stainless Subs,too? Go for the Viking but panel your brand name refrigerator/ freezer to match your cabinets. They become timeless - not a focus in the room - and you haven't fallen for the trend of all stainless appliances.

Cote de Texas said...

Grimaud - I love your spirit!!! Tell it !!! ha! Do I know you? ok - look, it's NOT a cop out. And I do have a deep sink, but have you ever made and served a meal for 20 people, it's more than just dishes. It food and pots and pans everywhere. And then, my housekeeper, poor thing, just standing around - not at the party, but at the party, you know? it's strange for HER. i just wish I had a separate kitchen like the one in your River Oaks house - so sue me. ok? And you are right about trends in kitchen. I always say - get what you love, it all goes in and out and out and in. Come back, ok????

La Maison Fou said...

Thanks for the kitchen chat! Always look forward to the various posts! Great discussions.
Leslie

PrimeTimeMom said...

This was a great discussion! I loved Susan's suggestion of adding "living room" art to the kitchen. I can see both points of view about the open vs closed kitchen plan. I think it depends on the individual and how they entertain.

Anonymous said...

I thoroughly enjoyed the interview with Susan Serra. She had some thoughtful tips and seemed to have a very nice persona.

I certainly know people who prefer a segregated kitchen. I've been to parties where the hired help is in between clean up and doesn't know what to do. I usually feel bad for them and say a few words, but then realize they don't speak English, making an awkward situation even more awkward!

Kristen in Atlanta