Nestled in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, Blackberry Farms has long been one of America’s most beloved culinary escapes. So when they began planning the newly-launched Blackberry Mountain resort, the kitchens were of the utmost importance. They didn’t just need power, they needed thoughtful performance to match the mindful indulgence of Chef Josh Feathers’ culinary program. We’re proud to say Chef Feathers chose Hestan.
But not only is Blackberry Mountain’s Three Sisters restaurant fully-equipped with Hestan Commercial, resort guests can fire up the Hestan burners during cooking lessons in the Hestan Indoor demonstration kitchen.
We spoke with Samantha Feuer, Blackberry Mountain Design Manager, about the aesthetic and rationale behind their Hestan kitchens.
Tell us about the inspiration behind the new Blackberry Mountain kitchens – both the Hestan Commercial kitchen at Three Sisters and the Hestan Indoor demonstration kitchen.
The Three Sisters concept was to create an open kitchen that allowed visual interaction between the guests and the chefs. The design plan was to showcase the functionality of a working kitchen without adding too many elements that would take away from the actual design. We were inspired to create a space that continued the connection to the land and natural experience that our guests and team cultivate while on the mountain.
The demonstration kitchen design combines natural stone elements with the Hestan Indoor commercial-crossover aesthetic. It has a large waterfall island and angled mirrors to create a spectacular view of what’s happening inside the kitchen while integrating the setting of Blackberry Mountain. The space is wrapped in windows to strengthen that connection between inside and out.
What should someone take into consideration when designing their commercial or residential kitchen?
Function over form always. Then, remember that there is a beauty and style to your functional pieces. Embrace the function.
What would be the first and second most important appliances in a kitchen?
1) Range
2) Dishwasher
How does color impact a kitchen?
We love a white kitchen. Many people are afraid of a white kitchen being hard to clean, but we feel that it showcases the appliances and accessories that you use day to day. It allows the elements of your kitchen to stand out against a clean backdrop, and using white as a base always helps a space feel more open.
What kitchen trends do you see for 2020 and beyond?
We see functional kitchens being a trend that is here to stay in 2020. At one point, the trend was to hide everything, but people are becoming more open to seeing functionality. It’s more inviting and practical!
