Cauliflower-Kale Soup With Toasted Pine Nuts. Recipe in "The Vibrant Life: Eat Well, Be Well" by Amanda Haas (Chronicle Books, 2019). Photo by Erin Kunkel.

Pressure cookers at http://www.cosori.com/ are just an intense version of your saucepan. Their history extends back to the late 1600s, any time a French physicist created way to use internal steam pressure to speed up water’s boiling point, ultimately causing foods being cooked more rapidly. Pressure canning evolved from this early discovery, and packed food in sealed jars, then cooked all of them boiling water. As the method became widely used, larger “jars” were meant to accommodate both home and industrial cooking, for places like hotels and restaurants. The warm and wet, steamy environment of a pressure cooker produces precisely the same effects that long, slow braising would. Simon Hulstone uses that you cook duck legs in a half-hour while Alyn Williams cooks oxtail with reduced dark wine, beef stock and vegetables within this Beef and asparagus recipe for flavourful, flaky meat in a mere 40 minutes.Pressure cookers aren't just used for meat though; some recipes use pressure cookers for beans, risottos, poaching fruit or steaming puddings. Pressure cookers also come in a array of sizes, based on the number of people you might be wanting to feed, though keep in mind that you should only fill a pressure cooker 2 / 3 full for safety reasons. Most pressure cookers consist of at least 2 different pressure settings but electric varieties have numerous heating and timing systems, ideal for multi-stage cooking. The durability of the pressure cooker comes down towards the material it can be made of. Thick bases and metal are all signs of your good, long-lasting cooker that will aid you well over the years.

This backyard and landscaping was designed by Giuseppe Abbrancati and is located in Plainview, Nassau County NY. The challenge was to deal with a very small backyard having a deep slope in a newly constructed residential site. The backyard was built in two levels, with a stoop and platform built by the sliding doors leading down to the patio area. The gunite swimming pool is built on one side and with a large patio on the opposite side, for the main dining table and bbq grill area. A set of wide stairs lead further down to the natural gas fire pit and a grass play area. A sheer descent water feature was built with 3 waterfalls and lighting accents were installed on steps and throughout the backyard. All patios and walls were paved and veneered with Moca travertine selected from the Gappsi showroom. The gunite swimming pool built by Gappsi has many options and was built with the highest quality materials and equipment. Starting with 10 inch thick gunite walls and ½ inch rebar 12 on center, 2 inch PVC plumbing for high volume water flow. The overall size of the swimming pool is 20x40. In the shallow area, a sundeck and the spa were built side by side with steps leading down in to the pool shallow area and a bench in front of the spa. LED lights were also installed, along with an automation system that allows the customer to control the lights, the water feature bubbler, spa jets, and the gas heater, with his or her smartphone. The gunite swimming pool also has a salt-chlorine generator system, an ozone system, a pressure driven Aqua clean robot pool cleaner, variable speed pumps, and an oversize cartridge filter. The finish of the pool shell consists of Pennsylvania bluestone coping for the pool and spa, and a Diamond Brite midnight blue color for the inside pool shell plaster finish. The most important feature suggested and loved by the homeowner that was installed, is the safety automated pool cover. Being in a such tight backyard, it would have been impossible to fence the pool area to keep the their children safe, without distorting the backyard layout.

When thinking of historic Saratoga, modern styling isn’t always the first thing to come to mind. Not for these clients…their home features sharp architectural details and oversized views of the lake. Prior to jumping into the kitchen project with Designer Justina Auer & Project Manager Steve Shanholtz, phase one included freshening up and adding a stacked laundry unit to an upstairs bathroom. Removing the laundry closet from the makeshift pantry area set the precedent for a more functional Butler’s Pantry which now includes a wet bar for beverages enjoyed in the morning or evening, a speed oven with warming drawer and tons of pantry storage. Like a domino effect, the Butler’s Pantry freed up the possibilities in the kitchen. The overall layout of the kitchen did not change, but tweaks were made to make it more functional to entertain and cook. Lead Carpenter Vinny Augustine executed the vision impeccably. Both the main & island sinks increased in size to allow two chefs to work in the space, while moving the fridge down created a large gadget & appliance garage storage. Rift Cut Oak cabinets painted white with Walnut shelves pop against the full height Blackbrook Cambria Quartz backsplash. The island features full depth storage on both sides, with seating at a table placed next to the best view in the house. Who said Black & White had to be boring? Designer: Justina Auer Project: Manager Steve Shanholtz Lead Carpenter: Vinny Augustine Cabinets: Teddwood - Luxury Counters: Cambria Blackbrook

The fireplace has 400 tiny fiber optic lights hidden in the mortar lines between the rocks. You have the choice of lights, no lights, color, speed, etc, so that you can set the lights for the mood. Photo credit: Gail Lynne Goodwin

Having an effective sealer in place is essential for ensuring the long term condition of tiled floors in fact a lack of sealer can make cleaning the tiles exceptionally difficult as the sealer prevents dirt becoming ingrained in the tile. This property owner, living in the former spa town of Matlock in Derbyshire, was experiencing problems with their Terracotta tiled kitchen floor since they had applied some kind of wax to act as a sealer, and this had worn off within a few weeks. After this happened the tiles were not sealed again, making cleaning a big problem. Terracotta is a highly porous stone and thus easily soaks in spillages and stains, and allows dirt to become very easily trapped. In this situation, the property owner resolved to contact me about some professional maintenance. I suggested that the tiles would need a deep clean followed by the application of a fresh, high quality sealer. The work was agreed on and I made my way down to the property the following week. When I arrived at the property and saw the tiles first hand it became clear that a professional clean had been in need for a long time: greasy looking stains were particularly prevalent and covered large areas of the kitchen floor. To remove I mixed a strong solution of Tile Doctor Pro Clean, which is a multi-purpose, high-alkaline cleaner, stripper and degreaser, and, working in small areas, applied it to the floor. Working in small sections was important because the stone is very porous and quickly soaked in any product laid down. I scrubbed the cleaner into the stone using a rotary machine fitted with a black scrubbing pad, with the dirt and stains coming away nicely. Pro Clean is highly versatile and can be used for similar cleaning purposes on most types of natural stone floor. After cleaning each section, I quickly removed the excess dirty water and chemicals with my wet vax machine. Once the whole floor had been cleaned I rinsed it several times with fresh water just to make sure all cleaning chemicals were gone. I then left the floor to dry completely for 36 hours. When I returned to the property, I conducted several damp tests to check for any areas of the floor that needed further drying. As is almost always the case, there were a few areas that remained slightly damp, and I set about speeding the drying process along using my heat gun. In fact, it actually took me more than three hours to get the floor completely dry, but this was worth the effort as even the slightest excess moisture can damage the performance of the sealer. Once the floor was finally dried I began sealing the floor with one coat of Tile a Doctor Colour Grow sealer. Colour Grow is an impregnating sealer that penetrates deep into the pores of the stone, thus acting as a shield against ingrained dirt, and also raises the colour of the tiles to provide an aesthetically appealing appearance. sealer. After sealing with Colour Grow, I left the floor to dry for couple of hours and then applied six coats of Tile Doctor Seal & Go, which is a topical sealer that builds up durable protection on the surface of the tiles. The combination of through cleaning and the application of not one, but two high quality sealers really did wonders for the appearance of these Terracotta tiles. Looking at the final results you wouldn’t have believed they had been without a proper clean and seal for so long! Needless to say the customer was exceptionally pleased and will surely be able to keep her floor looking great for a long time to come. Tony Olmet Derbyshire Tile Doctor

Wolf 36" Cooktop Wall Hood Glass | VW36G Available at Universal Appliance and Kitchen Center | uakc.com Beauty that endures: Heavy-duty stainless steel with a classic brushed finish matches other Sub-Zero and Wolf products, and crystal-clear glass elevates your kitchen design. Powerful blower options: Customize your hood’s performance with multiple capacity options in internal, in-line, or external blowers. Front-mounted electronic controls: Conveniently placed on the front of the unit, the controls include white LED lighting in a look that coordinates with other Wolf products. Dishwasher safe filters: Stainless steel covered aluminum mesh filters are dishwasher safe and easy to maintain. An indicator light alerts you when the filters need cleaning. Bright LED lighting: LED work lights with two brightness settings illuminate your cooking surface. Telescoping chimney: For greater design flexibility, the telescoping chimney reaches most standard ceiling heights, and a flue extension is available as an accessory. Technical Features: Shipping Weight (lbs): 44 - 93 Electrical Requirements: 110/120 V AC, 60 Hz, 15-amp dedicated circuit, grounded Four blower speeds: Boost, High, Medium, Low Remote control accessory provides control from up to 20 feet away

Wolf 42" Cooktop Island Hood Black | VI42B Available at Universal Appliance and Kitchen Center | uakc.com Built to perform beautifully: Heavy-duty stainless steel with a classic brushed finish matches other Sub-Zero and Wolf products, and black glass adds a striking design element to your kitchen design. Powerful blower options: Customize your hood’s performance with multiple capacity options in internal, in-line, or external blowers. Front-mounted electronic controls: Conveniently placed on the front of the unit, the controls include white LED lighting in a look that coordinates with other Wolf products. Dishwasher safe filters: Four aluminum mesh filters are dishwasher safe and easy to maintain. Filters are hidden to give the hood a sleek look from beneath. An indicator light alerts you when the filters need cleaning. Bright LED lighting: Four LED lights with two brightness settings illuminate your cooking surface. Telescoping chimney: For greater design flexibility, the telescoping chimney reaches most standard ceiling heights, and a flue extension is available as an accessory. Technical Features: Shipping Weight (lbs): 55 - 101 Electrical Requirements: 110/120 V AC, 60 Hz, 15-amp dedicated circuit, grounded Four blower speeds: Boost, High, Medium, Low Remote control accessory provides control from up to 20 feet away

Experience life in the heart of Paris Latin Quarter with this charming 3-bedroom, 60 square meters apartment located on the 4th and 5th floors of a secure residential building without an elevator. The living area is furnished with a sofa, flat-screen TV and dining table and chairs. We understand the importance of staying connected, which is why there is a high-speed Wi-Fi (1/Gbps) connection. The fully equipped kitchen has a sink, toaster, electric tea kettle, full refrigerator, stove, drip coffee machine, microwave oven and more. The kitchen also comes with all the cookware, dishes and utensils needed to prepare meals at home. The flat comes with a clothes washing and drying machine. Cleaning supplies, a vacuum, broom and mop are also provided. The apartment is heated with individual electric radiators for heating. The first and second bedrooms are furnished with double beds and quality mattresses. The third bedroom contains a single bed. All the necessary bedding and linens are provided and professionally laundered. This property can host up to 4 guests. The flat has one bathroom accessible via the hallway with a shower, toilet and sink. You will find soap, shampoo, toilet paper and paper towels to start off your stay.

Backing onto Speed River on a private 4 acre setting, 25 Manor Park is an exclusive enclave consisting of only 12 detached stone houses architecturally constructed and designed to complement the 1800's limestone mansion of which it stands as the centerpiece of the community . Manor Park is of major architectural significance blending an eclectic mix of British, Italian and French tradition. Since the creation of this authentic community in 1992, it has been perceived as one of the most exclusive neighborhoods in the City of Guelph, providing owners with the privacy and privilege of luxury home ownership along with the freedom of a unique condominium lifestyle. With appreciation and respect for our heritage while moving forward towards a new and modern concept, this home will be sure to have you impressed. For more info or to scheduled a showing: John Bertrand Sales Representative Keller Williams Golden Triangle Realty 640 Riverbend Dr | Kitchener | ON | N2K 3S2 Office: 519-821-5553 Cell: 519-835-4653 http://www.johnbertrand.ca/

Baker's Delight; this magnificent chefs kitchen has everything that you could dream about for your kitchen including a cooling rack for baking. The two large island with the cage chandeliers are the centerpiece to this kitchen which lead you into the cooking zone. The kitchen features a new sink and a prep sink both are located in front of their own window. We feature Subzero - Wolf appliances including a 36" 6 burner full range with oven, speed oven and steam oven for all your cooking needs. The islands are eucalyptus green one is set up for all her baking supplies including the cooling rack and the island offers a place to sit with your family. The flooring featured in this home are a rich luxury vinyl that has the appearance of hardwood floors but the cost savings is substantial over hardwood.

Baker's Delight; this magnificent chefs kitchen has everything that you could dream about for your kitchen including a cooling rack for baking. The two large island with the cage chandeliers are the centerpiece to this kitchen which lead you into the cooking zone. The kitchen features a new sink and a prep sink both are located in front of their own window. We feature Subzero - Wolf appliances including a 36" 6 burner full range with oven, speed oven and steam oven for all your cooking needs. The islands are eucalyptus green one is set up for all her baking supplies including the cooling rack and the island offers a place to sit with your family. The flooring featured in this home are a rich luxury vinyl that has the appearance of hardwood floors but the cost savings is substantial over hardwood.

The pool had plumbing and structural issues that we resolved through the following: -All plumbing was pressure tested to find and repair all leaking pipes -Pool shell was stripped of plaster and tile -Decking was overlaid with new light walnut 3" bullnose coping around pool and spa edge -Pool waterline tile is opalescent glass 1 x 2 arctic ice -Pool interior finish was done with 3M Florida stucco, glass and quartz pool plaster. -Entire pool equipment set was upgraded using Zodiac, Jandy Pool Systems -Variable speed energy efficient pumps

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  Free ebook, Creating the Ideal Kitchen. DOWNLOAD NOW   One of my very favorite parts of the design process is space planning and considering all the possible floor plan solutions at the beginning stages of the project. What works for one person as a solution may not be the best solution for the next. What you think you want going into the process, may change once all the space planning options are considered. This was exactly the case for this family. They thought they really wanted an island configuration. Once we figured out the flow of the work triangle and saw how great a large peninsula would work for the family, we proceeded along those lines. The peninsula not only works great for food prep, it also allows more of a traditional table seating versus an island with everyone lined up in a row — not so great for daily dinner conversation. To the right of that is a counter depth fridge and a speed oven which gives some flexibility with cooking and reheating smaller meals instead of having to heat the entire oven. An induction cooktop with its easy to clean surface keeps the space looking clean and tidy. Induction heats very quickly to high temperatures so is also wonderful to cook on. To the right of cooktop is a long stretch of countertop perfect for prep space. Storage was very important to the homeowners. We took our time discussing where spice pull outs and tray dividers would be located, how the corner storage would be addressed and the location of the other items such as trash and recycling cans. We worked as many drawers as possible into the space, as I always recommend drawers over doors and/or roll outs as they offer the most flexibility and ease of use. Customizing these details is time well spent as having a place for everything and everything in its place, just like Mom said, really is the key to a functional and professionally designed kitchen. The talls and wall cabinets are white acrylic which combined with the white marble look quartz countertops and full height backsplash keep the room feeling light, bright and airy. The wood toned base cabinets are made of a textured laminate that has the look of wood but is a very easy to maintain product. Brushed gold metal on the hardware, faucet and chandelier add a warm touch and ties into the blond maple flooring. The neighboring breakfast room was also remodeled as part of the project and houses a small coffee station. Designed by: Susan Klimala, CKBD Photography by: Kari Firak For more information on kitchen and bath design ideas go to: www.kitchenstudio-ge.com

SPLIT LEVELS. Perimeter cabinetry houses an under-counter speed oven, induction cooktop, and drawer bases for convenient access. Counters measure 32.5 inches in height—lower than the usual 36 inches— to increase usability. The matching island has two levels: standard-height to accommodate the dishwasher and wine fridge and a lowered prep sink and work area. Photography by Anice Hoachlander

Baker's Delight; this magnificent chefs kitchen has everything that you could dream about for your kitchen including a cooling rack for baking. The two large island with the cage chandeliers are the centerpiece to this kitchen which lead you into the cooking zone. The kitchen features a new sink and a prep sink both are located in front of their own window. We feature Subzero - Wolf appliances including a 36" 6 burner full range with oven, speed oven and steam oven for all your cooking needs. The islands are eucalyptus green one is set up for all her baking supplies including the cooling rack and the island offers a place to sit with your family. The flooring featured in this home are a rich luxury vinyl that has the appearance of hardwood floors but the cost savings is substantial over hardwood.

Perched on a hillside with expansive views overlooking southern Oregon, this new residence features our reclaimed Sawmill Oak for the floors in the custom tailored interior. The design set out to fuse a classic Northwest mountain-home style with a Balinese influence inspired by the various travels of the couple. The designer & homeowners gravitated to our reclaimed saw-traced Sawmill Oak flooring for the "real" quality of a history that cannot be faked, with each board possessing a completely unique & one of a kind character. We took the patina down a little to add more refinement to the distressed rustic wood planks and expose more of the red & white oak within. The construction team had the option of finishing in place or utilizing our factory-applied oil or poly finishes, and opted for a clear oil finish by Anthology Woods to speed along installation.

Not everyone would see the hidden beauty in the Yonkers property destined for the wrecking ball in 2000. But one family took the serious fixer-upper under their wing. Crumbling walls, overgrown maples (indeed, saplings were busting through the brick walls), and deer living in the basement was the state of affairs when Westover Landscape Design initially arrived on the scene. A year of intensive, meticulous, thoughtful renovation by the homeowner followed while the house was brought up to speed. When the last construction machine finally rumbled out, that’s when Robert Welsch and his crew began their odyssey. The goal was to honor the newly restored relic and deliver it into the future with fitting surroundings. “We wanted to bring that treasure back to life,” Robert Welsch explains. Working closely with the homeowner as well as the city of Yonkers to guide the restoration, their first feat was to install a proper drainage system with catchments capable of keeping storm water from the massive roof flowing away. Before anything was visible on the surface, extensive work was accomplished underground. Meanwhile, a plan was drafted to honor the era of the house. Westover chose bluestone as the primary path material for its easy maintenance and simplicity when laying the swank configuration of pathways around the house and outward to an entertaining pavilion. By cleverly hemming the bluestone with period brick that echoes the building material for the house for continuity, the result is a smart and sophisticated finish to a promenade that constantly draws the family and their pets outdoors. Brick was also used to rebuild the walled gardens for the much-needed privacy in a close-knit Yonkers community. And a graceful wrought iron gate enhances the arrival experience. But walls and gates were not the only element to screen and reveal views—plant selection was critical. Few landscapers would go the extra mile to find period perfect plants for a 19th Century restoration, but Robert Welsch saw the importance of authenticity in creating the mood. He repeated large trees—such as an exquisite London plane tree in the front yard—to balance the expression in the back. Recognizing the need for immediate stature, he selected a weeping willow to gain instant volume, giving the landscape a sense of deep roots. A weeping Camperdown elm adds sophisticated drama to the walled stroll gardens. Hydrangeas were incorporated for their billowy stature, easy maintenance, and long blooming season. Similarly, all the plants in residence play their part in the display that goes beyond the usual spring fling to extend throughout the growing season—offering visual interest even when they are not performing. From spring bulbs to autumn perennials, there is never a dull moment. Meanwhile, every step along the way was a collaboration working hand-in-hand with the homeowner and the city to make certain that the historic landmark status of the property was upheld and honored. The result goes beyond a landscape that is just old faithful. It adds life to the picture, creating a jewel-like setting for the newly proud house. In a word, it is sublime. By planting wisely and using sustainable elements, the restored house and its surroundings are ready for the next generation and beyond. This Yonkers gem remains meticulously groomed under the watchful eye and skill of Westover Landscape Design’s team of gardeners—It’s a keeper.