Friday, October 30, 2015

Steam Ovens

One of the newest and most innovative appliances in the market today are steam ovens. Sometimes taking the place of a microwave or second oven in a kitchen, these little guys are gaining market share like crazy. Today we will explore exactly what a steam oven is, how it functions and some of the ways you can use it.

Steaming is a healthy cooking technique. Steam is capable of cooking all kinds of food. In a steam oven, water is boiled, vaporized into steam and injected into the oven cavity. The steam carries the heat to the food, cooking the food. The food is separate from the water but in direct contact with the steam resulting in moist food products. Over cooking and burning is easily avoided. Some chefs even claim that steaming reduces the fat content because no cooking oil is needed. Steaming also results in more nutritious food because fewer nutrients are leached into the cooking water.

In new steam convection ovens, because food is surrounded by a vapor blanket of steam, the cooking temperature remains constant and the food is kept tender. It keeps food healthier, fresher and juicer and reduces cooking time. Adding the convection element and adding hot air to the steaming process introduces enough heat to brown the food item. It's a great application for baking, roasting, grilling, steaming, braising, blanching and poaching.  It works great for breads to get that nice crusty crust and still maintain a moist interior. Steam ovens are also great for heating up leftovers. It injects moisture back into the food while heating it instead of drying it out like a typical microwave.


There are several manufacturers that make steam ovens-Wolf, Jenn-Air, Miele, Gaggenau, Thermador and Bosch. All of the clients we have installed one for rave about them and can't imagine their life without one. If you are replacing your ovens, it's worth looking into adding a steam oven. Check out the manufacturers websites for great videos on how they work or visit a local appliance showroom. Questions? Email me at jessica@webbercoleman.com

Sunday, October 25, 2015

Paris

This spring I was blessed to be able to visit Paris with some friends. We had an amazing time in a wonderful city and enjoyed eating macaroons every day! I thought I would share some of my favorite parts and things that have influenced my work and designs.


-Architecture- the stone work, elegant gardens, amazing stained glass all were so impressive to see. The balconies on nearly every building with beautiful wrought iron railings and cascading flowers were magical. It's amazing all of the artists that spent their lifetimes creating some of the famous buildings, structures and stained glass art. I am in awe of their incredible skills and love for what they created. It truly shines through in the finished product. Do I put as much passion and care into the work I produce?








-Art-everything to the Parisians is art. From paintings to sculptures to metro graffiti, to eclairs too beautiful to eat and wine and champagne produced with such tender love and care. They honor the past and traditions while creating new art and products today. Are my eyes open to the ways I can create art out of the everyday things of life?


There are too many favorites to mention them all, but probably my favorite piece of art that I was able to see was Monet's 'Water Lilies'. Breathtaking, overwhelming, huge, expansive, detailed-these are just some of the words that come to mind when experiencing them. If you ever have the chance to visit the Musée de l'Orangerie to see these beautiful paintings-go!


One thing that has influence my design work is all of the beautiful and different colorful doors on every building. I'm currently working on some new cabinet door styles inspired by my time in France.



Ask anyone-I love to travel and experience and learn from other cultures. I can't wait to visit Paris again and to explore more corners of the earth. Have you learned anything from your travels that has impacted your life? I'd love to hear! Email me at jessica@webbercoleman.com

Sunday, October 11, 2015

Serenbe Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles Designer Showhouse



This past weekend some girlfriends and I spent the weekend exploring and enjoying the slower pace of the Serenbe community, just south of Atlanta. If you are ever looking for an easy weekend getaway, I highly recommend it! While we were there, we visited the 2015 Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles Designer Showhouse.

This house is located on Grange Lake in the Serenbe community. Serenbe is a community born to protect the beautiful rural land just outside of Atlanta known as Chattahoochee Hill Country. The first house at Serenbe was built in 2004 and today the community is home to over 400 residents. Serenbe has won numerous awards including the Urban Land Institute Inaugural Sustainability Award, the Atlanta Regional Commission “Development of Excellence“ and EarthCraft named Serenbe the “Development of the Year.” Their four neighborhoods have areas focused on elements of well being-arts, agriculture, health and education. Serene is home to a 25 acre organic farm with a thriving CSA program. They also offer cultural events through their Playhouse, festivals, music events and an Artist in Residence program.

The Designer Showhouse is a French Creole style lakefront home make up of 3,700 square feet designed by architect James P. Curran and built by Monte Hewett Homes. The house features over 10 designers over the 2 floors of living space and the outdoor space. My favorite room was the powder room. With small wood tile on the wall, a vibrant red vanity with marble top and vessel sink and a wall mounted faucet. Designed by Lyndsy Woods, this small space was stunning!



 The house is now closed for tours, but I am sure you can find exceptional pictures of it online. For more information visit www.serenbeshowhouse.com And if you need a weekend getaway, stay at the Farmhouse Inn, enjoy the rocking chairs on the front porch, the afternoon tea and a delicious dinner at The Farmhouse.


Were you able to visit this Showhouse? I'd love to know your favorite part! Email me at jessica@webbercoleman.com