During Sarah Blank’s 40 years as a kitchen designer, she has worked on a multitude of projects throughout the country. Blank understands that a beautiful and functional kitchen is not only an integral part of the house’s architecture, but also the very heart of the home. Today, the designer has a new place to call home: Litchfield County.

1. What are the kitchen trends for 2021 and 2022?

Color, rich color! Or deep naturals.

2. What colors are your favorites in kitchens?

I love blue, walnut, and certainly whites mixed in with organic putty colors. It depends on the architecture and the overall aesthetic of the home, a kitchen needs to harmonize with the overall aesthetic. It should not stand on its own.

3. How would you describe your style?

My style can range from super modern to rustic. What makes our designs so successful is that my team understands the rules of proportion as well as the functional necessities. We can apply our knowledge to whatever style a client desires.

4. Your preference for a backsplash?

When it comes to the backsplash, the aesthetic of the kitchen plays an important role. Stone slab on the backsplash yields a cleaner look where tile can lean a bit busier. There are hundreds of options and it’s up to me to make sure that the client’s final decision is the right one. It’s important to design as a whole. As I always say, “All the parts make up the whole.” One wants a harmonious look, not bits and pieces that do not gel together.

5. What must one consider when choosing the kitchen floor?

If one has a bad back, I shy clients away from stone or ceramic because it’s difficult to stand on. A wood floor is more forgiving. For a clean modern look, a porcelain floor is a great choice. Many porcelains are large in size so testing a sample is always wise. A stone floor, although lovely, will not hold up to pets’ accidents and could stain easier; however, we still suggest stone floors as their look is rich and natural. Be sure that what you select will not be slippery when wet. 

6. What do you recommend for a pantry design?

Storage, and lots of it! A place where you can go outside the box. If you love a countertop and it’s not as durable, you can install it in the pantry. A high-gloss painted finish is the best for a pantry. Fine Paints of Europe always yields the best results.

7. How important is kitchen lighting?

You need to understand Kelvin rating. Keep in mind that the kelvin rating must stay consistent throughout the room. The hood lights, pendant lights, and recessed lights, as well as the under cabinet lights and glass interior lights all need to be the same kelvin rating. The island is where many love to use a decorative fixture. The placement and how many will be important. I always draw the lights over the island to be sure we have them located in the right place.