Vincentian designer wins Westchester’s ‘Best Kitchen Design’ award

When Vincentian designer Rayan James submitted his design to New York’s Westchester Home Magazine’s kitchen design competition, he didn’t really expect to win.

But win he did and according to the former Chapmans Village and Buccament resident, “Everybody was shocked, surprised, they were happy and then they put up the kitchen on the screen and you could see why we won.{{more}} It was bold, it was very out there…and dark, as opposed to white; it’s not typical. The moment I was awarded best kitchen design was a surreal moment.”

Westchester Home invites professional architects and interior designers to enter their most stunning work in their competitions. The panel of judges rate originality, function, comfort, and great design.

“It was a lot of people there and everybody who is anybody in my field, they were there. And every company was vying for this category…,” James told SEARCHLIGHT in a telephone interview on Wednesday.

James said that he launched his company RAJ Kitchen and Bath, about seven months ago and his winning the prestigious award not only shocked persons, but has also boosted his business.

“We have been on the phone ever since; everybody has been calling us; they have been trying to reach out to us. So, yes, doors have now been opened for us as well,” the designer said.

He pointed out that when he initially embarked on the business, it was both scary and exciting. However, he explained that his faith and his belief in God is what has led to his success.

“I think we are a blessed couple, my wife and I believe a lot in God. It was the opportunity that we saw where we can really go beyond the box and move beyond limits and go and take a shot in America and we decide…let’s do it and we never looked back,” said James.

Angelica James, wife of the designer, described the moment her husband was awarded as one of extreme pride.

“We do not have any children as yet. I could imagine as parents seeing your kids perform so well and that feeling that you have, I think that is what I had. I can’t explain it any other way, I was so proud,” Angelica said.

She noted that she has always seen her husband’s potential even before they were married, while she is thanking God for rewarding her husband after his many years of hard work.

“From the time we were dating he’s always designing, so from then I always said there is a talent that is so raw, so I was extremely proud, extremely excited. It’s something that we dreamt about accomplishing…,” a proud Angelica said.

James explained that his next step is to expand the business and be bolder in designs.

RAJ Kitchen and Bath is located in New Rochelle, New York and interested persons can visit their website www.rajkitchenandbath.com or their Facebook page RAJ Kitchen and Bath. (CM)