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INDUCTION COOKTOPS: THE PROS & CONS

In my own home, we have shut off our gas cooktop because of our concern for indoor air quality as well as the environmental impact of capturing and delivering natural gas. We use a portable induction cooktop for all our stovetop cooking. We don’t miss the gas at all. Sooo much easier to keep clean, and we love the responsiveness and control of the heat. 

I have many happy clients who are using induction cooktops/ranges. Instantly responsive, it can boil water super-fast, and go low enough to melt chocolate without burning (no need for a double boiler). Plus, it is so much better for indoor air quality and the environment. It won’t heat up the kitchen because there is no radiant heat - only the metal from the pots and pans get hot, not the ambient air.

Induction cooktops use electromagnetic impulse to excite and heats the metal in the cooking vessel; it activates energy in the ferrous metal to create heat in the pan, not to the pan, in the room or on the surface of the cooktop. You will need induction compatible cookware which is readily available. Use high quality cookware such as cast iron, or enameled steel (Le Creuset) without welded or riveted pieces to prevent a humming noise.

Clean-up is super easy; just wipe down the smooth ceramic glass surface. The surface gets warm, but not hot enough to burn yourself - you can touch it with a bare hand (don’t touch the hot pot though). Even better, because there is no radiant heat, you can put a silicone baking mat (such as Silpat) or paper towels underneath pans to wipe up any splatters from frying latkes! Simply throw away the greasy paper towels. Chefs will use Silpat to prevent scratches on the glass surface if you use rough bottom pans. 

 Negatives: 

• Although you cannot char a poblano pepper directly on the surface of the cooktop, simply using a cast-iron pan will achieve the same results.  

• It is rumored that if someone has a pacemaker, they should probably 2’ stay away from the magnetic field, but check with your doctor. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16635999/

The best high-end brands are Wolf, Miele, and Thermador. Check out the many good showrooms where you can use a demonstration cooktop for a test run

I’m such a fan that I have a single burner counter version that I lend out to my clients so they can try it out themselves. The only negative is that the portable ones are louder than the high quality permanently installed cooktops. Let me know if you want to try it!

Spa-like primary bath for the ultimate in health and wellness.

Creating a spa-like experience in a residential bathroom involves incorporating elements that promote relaxation, tranquility, and rejuvenation. Here are some steps to help you achieve this.

1. Luxurious Extras:

Consider adding extras such as a steam shower, a whirlpool tub, or a built-in sauna if space and budget allow. These features elevate the spa experience and provide additional relaxation benefits.

2. Enhance Lighting:

Layered lighting can be used as needed; bright for morning make-up application and shaving, linear LEDs discreetly hidden under the toe kick of the vanity for a gentle nightlight when dimmed, and recessed cans for general lighting. Dimmable lighting allows control of the intensity and create ambiance. Consider adding candles or LED candles for soft, flickering light that adds to the relaxing atmosphere.

3. Luxurious Materials:

Use high-quality materials such as sintered stone (such as Dekton) that mimic natural stone or marble (without the upkeep), or wood to add warmth and a touch of luxury to the space. Incorporate plush towels, bath mats, and robes for added comfort.

4. Freestanding Bathtub:

If space allows, consider installing a freestanding bathtub as the centerpiece of the bathroom. This provides a luxurious focal point for relaxation and soaking.

5. Walk-in Shower with Rainfall Showerhead:

Create a spa-like shower experience with a spacious walk-in shower equipped with a rainfall showerhead. Add built-in seating or a bench for added comfort and convenience.

6. Heated Floors and Towel Warmers:

Install heated floors to keep the space warm and cozy, especially during colder months. Consider adding a towel warmer to keep towels warm and fluffy for a spa-like touch.

7. Aromatherapy:

Incorporate aromatherapy into the bathroom with essential oil diffusers, scented candles, or bath salts. Choose calming scents such as lavender, eucalyptus, or chamomile to promote relaxation and stress relief.

8. Sound System:

Install a sound system or Bluetooth speakers to play soft, soothing music or nature sounds to enhance the spa-like experience.

9. Organic Elements:

Bring in natural elements such as plants, stones, or wood accents to create a connection to nature and promote a sense of well-being.

10. Declutter and Simplify:

Keep the bathroom clutter-free and organized to create a sense of serenity and relaxation. Incorporate storage solutions such as built-in shelves or cabinets to keep essentials neatly tucked away.

11. Choose a Calming Color Palette:

Opt for soothing, neutral colors such as soft blues, greens, grays, or earth tones. These colors evoke a sense of serenity and create a calming atmosphere.

By incorporating these elements into your residential bathroom design, you can create a spa-like retreat where you can unwind, de-stress, and rejuvenate in the comfort of your own home!