Retail Observer

RETAILOBSERVER.COM JUNE 2015 38 Measuring 18-7/8-inches tall, the Semi-Pro model features an arched, fully rotating, flexible spout that can be fixed into a straight- ahead position with its press-and-click stabilizer arm. Hose construction consists of a silicone inner core protected by a low- friction, smooth nylon, braided, outside mesh. In markets that require lower kitchen cabinet clearances, the Ambient Series offers an 8-1/2-inch-tall faucet with a pull-out — rather than a pull-down — spray. This model also delivers full and needle spray patterns, as does yet another version that includes the basic Ambient model, but with a side spray that extends up to 28 inches. Finally, for those seeking an "executive chef" look in their kitchens— especially if they have ample space above their sinks—Ambient meets their needs with the statuesque Masterchef. Measuring 24 inches-tall, this elegantly designed faucet comes equipped with a pull-down sprayhead that extends eight to 10 inches and, like the Semi-Pro model, is held in place by its press- and-click stabilizer bar. Available in a chrome or a satin nickel finish, all Ambient faucets feature spouts that swivel 180° or 360°, as well as flat-handle levers for easy, ergonomic control of flow and temperature. The modern handle design maintains a consistently contemporary look in any kitchen equipped with more than one model. But its appeal is more than aesthetic—while rotating 75° forward from the faucet body, the handle moves only 25° to the rear to avoid the nuisance of bumping into the backsplash. All Ambient faucets use ceramic disc cartridges. The pull-down faucets feature a 28mm Nobili cartridge, enclosed in a protective fiberglass stem that accommodates the slim contours of the series. This cartridge also allows each faucet to offer two flow rates: one gallon per minute (gpm) for a simple light rinse; 1.75 gpm when a more powerful flow is needed. Neoperl aerators are also standard on the pull-down models. Noting that both settings are well within the stringent flow-rate requirements of both the federal WaterSense program and the state of California, product manager Lars Christensen adds that, "The cartridge can be coupled with a restrictor to achieve the even lower flow rates that are required by LEED-certified projects." Complementary components Franke prides itself on being able to offer designers and consumers full kitchen systems: not just the sink and the faucet, but all of the associated components—disposers, grids, filtration, point-of-use equipment, etc.—that maximize functionality while minimizing the hassles of sourcing from multiple suppliers. For Ambient and the other new suites that Franke will bring to market in the coming months, this full complement of products also includes pot filler-type faucets and point of use, water-dispensing systems. • The Ambient Pot Filler features the same flat handle and chrome or satin nickel finishes as the other faucets in the series, as well as a half-inch ceramic cartridge made by Fluhs. Offering a flow rate of 2.2 gpm, the spout rotates a user-friendly 180°. • The Ambient Series also includes three different Little Butler dispensing systems: cold water only, hot water only, and a dual-handle model that delivers both hot and chilled water. The latter is provided by the Little Butler Chiller, a compact, under- sink unit that measures 14- 5/8 inches x 10-5/16 inches x 8-23/32 inches and operates with a flow rate of 0.5 gpm. Affordable price points: With the exception of the commercial- grade Masterchef Pull-Down Kitchen Faucet, all the faucets in the Ambient Series carry a list price point below $600 for the chrome finish and below $700 for the satin nickel. "The price points of the new Ambient line are within a range that will appeal to designers and consumers looking to create a kitchen that is as beautiful as it is functional," explains Brad Kiel, vice president of Franke Kitchen Systems Luxury segment. "With Ambient, we have sought to create a broad suite of products whose consistent, contemporary design will not only complement, but also help unify the aesthetics of a space." Available now, the Ambient Series is CSA-certified and fully complies with the low-lead requirements of NSF/ANSI 372: Drinking Water System Components - Lead Content. Like all Franke kitchen faucets, the Ambient carries a Limited Lifetime Warranty. For more information visit www.frankeksd.com or call 1-800-626-5771. I N D U S T R Y [ N E W S ] The new Franke Ambient Semi- Pro Pull-Down Kitchen Faucet features an arched, fully rotating, flexible spout that can be fixed into a straight-ahead position with its press-and-click stabilizer bar. The new Franke Ambient Pull-Down Kitchen Faucet, available in chrome and satin nickel, features a dual-spray head, contemporary styling with flat handles, a 180° swivel spout, and a price point of $495 or $595, depending on the finish. RO

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