Living Large in a Cozy Kitchen

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6 tips to live and eat well in a small cooking space

Cooking in a small kitchen doesn’t mean settling for small pleasures. Living in a small space or cooking with just a few ingredients doesn’t have to be meager living or boring. Simple living doesn’t automatically equate to living primitive, like a college student eating Top Ramen every night. It all comes down to being more intentional in your choices.

Here are six easy ways to maximize function and enhance the tastes that come out of your cozy cooking space:

#1 – Do more with less. The smaller the space the more important it is that each component serves multiple functions. Whether you live in a studio apartment or mobile home – with a kitchen the size of shoebox – there are easy and cost-effective ways to maximize function without compromising style. For example, when it comes to storing items you use frequently, hang them from hooks or place them inside metal baskets, or on shelves mounted below the cabinets. This will help reduce the need for building bulky built-in cupboards. Displaying cooking tools will add texture and interest to your kitchen, too

#2 - Commit to excellence. It’s also important to focus on high quality ingredients and kitchen tools. Although it may cost a little more, quality cookware is a better investment in your quality of life and longterm health. A must-have in my kitchen is a Dutch oven. I absolutely love the richly colored high-gloss enameled cast-iron cookware by Le Creuset, World Cuisine, and Lodge Enamel (this one was love at first sight). The elegant designs, tight lids and thick-walled construction hold the heat better than other pots, which means you can turn down the heat. Plus, they allow for perfectly seared and simmered seafood, sautéed evenly meats, and beautiful stews and braises.

When it comes to cookware, why not invest in a fewer higher quality pieces? It’s better than storing a bunch of appliances you seldom use. Do you really need five sizes of pots or three frying pans when just one or two will do the trick? Because you, or someone who loves your good cooking (hint-hint) just dropped $150+ at Williams-Sonoma, I suggest you proudly display your new cookware by hanging them from a rack instead of hiding them in a cupboard.

#3 - Minimalism is tasty. Bring boldness and creativity to your plate with flavors that zing! Economizing is not about reducing quality, either. In reality, the opposite is true. Minimalism requires smarter choices. “No amount of sizzle can make a bad steak taste good.” The new Californian-style of cooking focuses on finding combining the freshest foods from your local farmers market. The goal is to let the main ingredients speak for themselves. Add as little as possible and let the natural flavors accentuate their innate qualities. Fresh natural food never needs to be covered up with loads of butter, spices or sauces. Let the main ingredient be the focal point of the dish.

#4 - Simplicity is not plain. Consider installing bamboo countertops. Today, it’s one of the earth’s simplest, yet most widely-used building materials. Bamboo is versatile, functional and attractive. In design, it offers a clean, natural look while elevating the space. Bamboo surfaces are kind to the earth and more durable than other woods or manufactured products. Bamboo counters eliminates the need for pulling out a cutting board, and it can maximize a small counter space while adding a natural look. Clean up and after-care is easier, too. Bamboo is bacteria- and mildew resistant – an important advantage in food preparation. Best of all, it’s an inexpensive, plentiful, fast-growing renewable resource.

#5 – Stainless is stress-less. Another way to simplify the kitchen is by installing a single stainless steel industrial-sized deep sink instead of a traditional white ceramic sink. Stainless steel is more durable, resists stains and scratches, and accommodates large pots and pans better for washing while offering a sleek, high-end vibe. A retractable, commercial-style spray hose faucet is another way to make food prep food and cleanup a breeze.

#6 – Just say, “NO” to bottled water. Another earth-wise tip that many of us forget about is NOT buying a case of bottled water. Replace thousands of bottles a year that you’re adding to the waste stream by installing a reverse osmosis water filter under the sink. You’ll also be eliminating the need and hassles of refilling filtered water pitchers. Undersink water filter systems are inexpensive to buy, easy to install, and your water will be crystal clear and tasty.

Fresh from Joanna’s Kitchen

Scallops (almost) Ceviche, with Grapefruit Basil Salad

Using high quality ingredients is essential when I am cooking. When preparing to cook a dish, my #1 focus is to source the freshest ingredients. Shopping local, and in season, is a good starting point to insure you are getting the best produce available.

My latest trip to the Santa Barbara Fish Market rewarded me with beautiful scallops. SBFM are my favorite source for fresh, local and sustainably-sourced seafood. They provide seafood to the Central Coast’s best restaurants and grocery stores.

I was in the mood for something light that required little prep or standing over a hot stove because it was yet another day in the 80s, like many of our California winter days this year. Like most Santa Barbara homes mine is not equipped with forced air – and with our Pacific Ocean next door who needs it?

The delicate, sweet nature of the scallops inspired me to do an almost-ceviche-style dish with nearly no cooking required. The result was something that was crisp on the palate, delicious and satisfying. Best of all, it required only a few ingredients. No need for a huge grocery list or tons of storage.

 

Ingredients:

Scallops – 6 large

Olive oil – 2 tablespoons

Fresh lemons – 2

Grapefruit – 1

Basil – 1 bunch

Cayenne pepper and sea salt – Dash

 

Directions:

Soak scallops in fresh lemon juice for at least 4 hours in fridge.

Remove and let rest on a chopping board for about 15 min.

Place in a sauté pan on high heat with olive oil, searing scallops for 2 min. on one side, only.

The lemon and oil will caramelize adding a nice sweetness and light crunch.

Plate and drizzle the drippings over the scallops.

Chop grapefruit into small cubes, removing any white or hard pieces.

Roughly chop basil and toss lightly with grapefruit, adding a dash of cayenne and sea salt.

 

Serves: 2

Pair with your favorite champagne and have yourself a delicious, simple evening.

Bon appetite!

 

 

Lilly

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aka Lils, Lillski, Lillyhammer, jerky thief

Want to boost productivity, increase creativity, reduce stress, and improve relationships among human coworkers? Hire a dog.

That’s right, pet-friendly offices such as Hofmann Architecture are a growing trend of “going to the dogs,” and for good reason. Allowing four-legged employees into the workplace can be beneficial to the bottom line, boost morale and productivity, and even attract customers.

This year, Hofmann Architecture, hired Lilly as our first Director of Goodness (DOG). She’s been one of our most inspirational and consistent new hires of the year. The only thing is she has a habit of sleeping on the job – a lot!

Hm-m-m-m-m-m, maybe she’s on to something?

Hofmann Architecture: Please tell us a little about yourself.

Lilly: I was born and raised on the East Coast before I joined my owner, Joanna, traveling out West to California a couple of years ago. Pedigree-wise, I’m a Lab/Pointer mix. Some people say I’m a rescue dog, but I rescue people.

Hofmann Architecture: How did you find us?

Lilly: Living in Santa Barbara and working at this job were a calling for me. I love the way everyone is so happy. Hofmann Architecture truly is a positive place to work.

Hofmann Architecture: What do you do here?

Lilly: My job title is Director of Goodness – DOG for short. My job is to check-in on each staffer first thing in the morning and make sure everyone is ready to design and build amazing Airstreams. I give each person a good solid nudge on their leg with my head, then I’ll lick their hand. Later that morning, I join them for break and then lunch in the picnic area. After a nap, Lauren or Maitlyn will usually chill out with me on the synthetic grass and scratch my tummy. I think it helps relax them after a busy morning and gets them recharged for the afternoon.

Hofmann Architecture: What has it been like working for Hofmann Architecture?

Lilly: I love it. I came from a pretty rough life that could have ended badly, so I’m grateful to be in a better place. Every day there are clients to greet. I really like it when they bring their dogs, too.

Hofmann Architecture: What do you do for fun and recreation?

Lilly: After work, my parents, Matthew and Joanna, usually take me running on the beach, or if we’re really feeling adventurous, we go on a trail run up to Inspiration Point and back.

Hofmann Architecture: What else do you like about living in Santa Barbara?

Lilly: I’m a huge fan of Santa Barbara. It’s the most dog-friendly place I’ve ever been. There are several dog beaches, like Hendry’s, where I can run free and hang out with other dogs, and there’s a dog wash station with warm water and a blow dryer. There are tons of dog-friendly restaurants and cafes, such as Handlebar Coffee Company, who always have a bowl of dog treats and fresh water. The Boathouse, is cool, too. They have a little shaded dog rest area while their parents go in for dinner or drinks. Each day at the office, I take one of the staffers for a walk, too.

Hofmann Architecture: What are some of your aspirations?

Lilly: I’m training to be a certified therapy dog by the oldest and largest therapy dog organization in the United States, Therapy Dog International. I can’t wait to visit some people who need more dog goodness. I’ll get to wear a cool vest and will be welcomed in schools, homes, hospice services, hospitals for children and adults, libraries, nursing homes and shelters.

It’s a dog’s life.

Ooh That Smell!

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With apologies to Lynyrd Skynyrd

Frame-off Renovation

There’s a foul smell in your vintage trailer and that’s not the worst of it. What’s hidden inside the floor and walls could be a significant risk to your health and your investment. But fear not, we take the trash out of the trailer so it doesn’t stink. Hofmann Architecture restores and protects the foundation of your investment from the ground up. This blog explains the basics of our frame-off renovation process.

In the vehicle restoration industry a frame-off (aka a shell-off for trailers) is a process where the chassis* is separated from the body or shell. A frame-off is performed to sustain the useful life of your mobile space for another 30, 40, even 50 years. Hofmann Architecture specializes in completely custom frame-off mobile renovations to remove any causes of nasty smells and ensure maximum longevity for all trailers.

 

Monocoque (no, it’s not eyewear)

Here’s some knowledge that is sure to impress your friends. Metal trailers, such as Airstreams, are built with a monocoque** shell design that was inspired by the aircraft industry during World War II. The aerodynamic shape and method of construction of an Airstream is very similar to an airplane.

What’s a monocoque? A monocoque shell is when the body and chassis form a single unit, with the shell carrying the majority of the weight and stress.

Structurally speaking, Airstream trailers are designed like a home, with the walls being bolted to the foundation. Wood framed homes are protected from falling apart due to an earthquake by bolting the walls to the foundation. Unlike a traditional home or other square box trailers, Airstreams are not built with wood framed walls.

Airstream walls are built with lightweight aluminum frames. In Airstreams, the aluminum C-channels at the base of the walls connect the walls to the floor, much like a traditional home. The steel chassis, plywood subfloor, and the body all work together to provide overall strength. When one of these three systems fails, such as the chassis or sub-floor, the entire trailer is weakened, and the trailer’s longevity is dramatically reduced.

 

Benefits of a Frame-off Renovation

“Why would a trailer stink?“ you ask. Good question.

A vintage trailer stinks because it’s old. Over time, water infiltration creates rot and mold = stink.

A frame-off renovation insures that the foundation (aka the chassis) is clean, is treated for rust resistance, and structurally reconditioned to be solid and straight.

Virtually every vintage chassis we’ve encountered since 2010, and we’ve seen hundreds, has been a hotel for rats, mice, raccoons, possums, snakes, or all of the above. These critters have made your chassis their permanent home before you rescued it. We’re assuming you intended to only rescue the vintage trailer, and not a bunch of varmints, so we kick them out.

In addition to becoming an animal habitat, after years of rainwater or high humidity, a vintage trailer’s steel chassis can rust and the wood subfloor can rot. Telltale signs of water damage are soft, spongy floors and musty smells. Resulting moisture can promote mold, particularly under the bathroom shower, bathtub and toilet. It’s no wonder these airtight, enclosed spaces begin to gather unpleasant odors and stink.The health risks of molds are well documented, and should be taken seriously.

In addition, frame-off renovations arrests further degradation of the foundation of the mobile space. In Airstreams and many of their aluminum-built cousins – such as a Bowlus, Curtis Wright, Avion, or Spartan – the chassis, axle(s) and hitch are the only components that will rust because they’re made from steel. When the chassis is separated from the subfloor and the body, the chassis can be properly inspected, straightened, refinished, and any structural members replaced, as needed.

A full frame-off restoration it is not intended for owners with a limited budget due to the time, cost and expertise required. The price tag for a properly done, full frame-off restoration ranges from $20,000 to $30,000.However, a full frame-off renovation will greatly increase the life expectancy of your vintage trailer.

Ask any professional renovator and they’ll tell you: A full frame-off renovation is the right way to restore a vehicle. A full renovation process addresses all the structural and stinky issues.

Steps to a Frame-off Renovation

Hofmann Architecture’s basic steps to a complete frame-off renovation are described here. (Caution! This list is for general information purposes, only. A frame-off process should only be attempted by experienced professionals with proper equipment and using best safety practices.):

  1. Demo the interior. All cabinets, fixtures, systems, and flooring are removed. The trailer is secured and proper personal protective gear is worn throughout the process.
  2. Remove interior skins, electrical systems and insulation from the walls
  3. Remove exterior trim pieces.
  4. Separate the interior C-channels at the base of the walls from the subfloor by grinding off the bolts, or separate them with a pry bar. Chances are they’re not going to unscrew because they’ve rusted.
  5. Remove ceiling vents, skylights, and air conditioners.
  6. Position the body with a lifting system.
  7. Remove the exterior rivets that connect the body with the belly pan, but do not remove the rivets that connect the exterior skins to the C-channel.
  8. Lift the body off the chassis.
  9. Pull the chassis out and lower the body onto 4×4 pressure treated stickers
  10. Create a template of the existing subfloor for the new subfloor because the dimensions of the body are unique for each unit.
  11. Remove the subfloor from the chassis. The fasteners will either be Phillips deck screws or flathead bolts. Unscrew the Phillips or pry bar off the flatheads and grind off the heads below the metal cross members.
  12. Remove ducting, grey and black water tanks, gas piping, electrical wiring, and brake lines. Clean the belly pan of organic material, vermin treasures, insulation, dirt, and animal waste. Be sure to wear an approved mask for this step.
  13. Remove the underbelly skins. Be sure to SAVE the quarter panel corners of the belly pan. These are often dented, but can be straightened.
  14. Replace the axles, brakes, and suspension.
  15. Sandblast the entire chassis.
  16. Carefully inspect and repair any chassis issues.
  17. Remove and SAVE the bumper.
  18. Spray entire chassis with a rust converter then paint the chassis with a rust inhibitor base paint.
  19. Re-assembly starts with reinstalling new waste and fresh water tanks, then new water lines, electrical wiring, and any heating systems.
  20. Lay new subfloor using the template, attach with self-tapping 3/16” Tec screws.
  21. Replace any rusted or damaged C-channel pieces.
  22. Remount the body back onto the chassis.
  23. Secure the body with self-tapping 3/16” Tec screws around the edge of the chassis.

Voilà! A fresher-smelling and longer-lasting Airstream.

* A chassis is the skeleton framework of a vehicle that hold the body in place.

** Monocoque is derived from Greek, mono = one, and French, coque = shell. So, monocoque construction is where the structural load of an object is supported by a single interconnected external material. In the case of an Airstream, it’s the curved shape of the skin, rather than the internal structure, such as a stick-framed home. A good example of a monocoque design in nature is an egg. When an eggshell is complete it is very strong compared to its weight. However, when one part is weakened, or removed, it collapses easily. A poor example of monocoque construction is an automobile because it uses a series of tubes and bulkheads to provide support while the external body adds little strength or support.

 

15 Airstream Inspection Tips

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“What should I look for before buying an Airstream?” is a question we here many times from clients at Hofmann Architecture. We have purchased many Airstreams, and there are many things we look for before writing the check.

The following list of things to look for before buying a used Airstream, was written by The Airstream Diary, from an interview with Paul Mayeux and Ann Flanagan. They have been the owners and operators of A&P Vintage Trailer Works since 2009. They have been servicing and renovating vintage and late model Airstreams for more than a decade. They’re pretty good at what they do, because “…we have an 18-month waiting list for our renovation work,” Paul says.

Thank you for sharing your experience and knowledge. Here’s what they recommend you should look for before buying a vintage Airstream:

  1. Expect axles over 20-years-old to be shot.
  2. Predict appliances more than 20-years-old to NOT be trustworthy.
  3. Observe the body to frame connection at the tongue and bumper.
  4. Look for significant corrosion on the frame at those locations.
  5. Look for outriggers that have rubbed through the belly pan or body (body to frame connection problems). Airstreams from the late 1950s to about 1961, with rectangular frames, need additional diligence when inspecting for corrosion – especially in the belly compartment that may not be readily visible.
  6. Jump on the back bumper! If the body-frame connection is compromised, there’ll be movement.
  7. Wiring – There are known issues with wiring in late 1960s solid aluminum wiring in Airstreams.
  8. Additional rear weight – Anything that has added additional weight to the back of the trailer is a RED FLAG! Additional weight in the rear of a trailer can have significant structural impact.
  9. Poke around at windows and doors. Check the floor around windows and doors and wheel wells with an ice pick. You’re looking for softness in the plywood floor in those areas.
  10. Check the windows for weather seal. Missing Airstream windows can be very expensive and nearly impossible to find.
  11. Smell for fresh chemicals; caulk, glues and carpets under sinks, under windows and other areas that are prone to damaging leaks.
  12. Look for leaks. Staying ahead of leaks is part of trailer ownership. Expect leaks. If the trailer you’re considering has leaks, and it’s been leaking a long time – EXPECT SIGNIFICANT DAMAGE.
  13. Ask “Where has the trailer lived?” An Arizona trailer will not have suffered the rot and corrosion a Florida trailer suffers from. Ask for the trailer’s genealogy. Ask if the owner would share memorabilia or pictures.
  14. Plumbing – If the plumbing has not been upgraded with new water pump / faucets / PEX, there may have been drips or leaks that also cause damage over time.
  15. Inspect the hitch before you hook your trailer up and take it home.

Jaime Crowley

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Cleaning up the earth is a messy job, but she’s happy to do it!

She interviews our construction crew and vendors, photographs their work, and videos the renovation process — proving that the “school of life” can be a messy job. Fortunately, our Social Media Intern Jaime Crowley loves to get dirty.

Jaime’s youthful resumé is littered with a passion for sustainable waste management practices — from kitchen sink, to trash cans, to the county disposal sites. You’ll learn more about that in a couple minutes.

Two days a week she brings talent, a fresh smile, positive attitude, and desire to learn new things into the Hofmann Architecture offices. The best news for our fans is she brings a creative spin to telling this amazing Airstream renovation story.

Her-r-r-r-re’s Jaime!

 

Hofmann Architecture: Could tell us a little about yourself?

Jaime: I’m originally from Maryland, just outside of Washington DC. I moved to Santa Barbara to attend UCSB. I graduated this year with a degree in Communications and a professional certificate in Green Building and Sustainable Design.

 

Hofmann Architecture: How did you find Hofmann Architecture?

Jaime: After graduating, I was on a mission to find a job, but not just any job. I’ve worked and interned at various places over the years where I’ve definitely learned and grown a lot, but this time I was determined to find a job I felt passionate about… and that’s when I found the Hofmanns! I’m passionate about small and sustainable living spaces and working for an Airstream architecture firm seemed a little too perfect to be true.

 

Hofmann Architecture: What do you do for Hofmann Architecture?

Jaime: I’m the Social Media Intern so I help produce Airstream photo shoots for our social media program. Hofmann Architecture’s Social Media Manager Ivy Vargas is training me to write updates, along with taking photos, capturing video, and video editing. It’s awesome!

 

Hofmann Architecture: What’s it been like at Hofmann Architecture?

Jaime: It’s been really great. Everyone is super nice and welcoming. The office environment always has really great vibes with good music playing, lots of natural light, and Lilly (the office dog) happily roaming around the office.

 

Hofmann Architecture: What do you do for fun and recreation?

Jaime: I love to run and do acro-yoga. I also enjoy volunteering for Sprout Up where I get to teach first and second graders about sustainability and the environment! I also work for a waste management company called Green Project Consultants where I help sort out recycling and compost from mountains of waste (haha). It’s a tough job, but someone’s got to do it! I also love vegan baking, hiking, exploring, being outdoors, traveling, and thrifting… just to name a few!

 

Hofmann Architecture: What else do you like about living in Santa Barbara?

Jaime: I like that I can look out the window and see the mountains and my front door and see the ocean out the other. The weather isn’t so bad either!

 

Hofmann Architecture: What are some of your aspirations?

Jaime: Right now my goal is to work for a sustainable and socially responsible company where I can learn, grow, and do my part to help make positive change in my community and maybe even one day the world! One of my longterm goals is to live in a tiny house – preferably either the one I’ve been working on for the past several months, or one I could play a significant role in building later down the line.