How To Embrace Feng Shui In Your Kitchen

How To Embrace Feng Shui In Your Kitchen

The Chinese philosophy of Feng Shui can be applied to home decor to create a sense of harmony. Arranging furniture to improve the energy in a room is believed to translate to a positive mind and body. Implement our tips to improve crucial elements of your kitchen so that it is more warm and inviting.

Minimize Clutter

Unnecessary objects taking up space are unsightly to begin with, but they also block the free flow of energy. It’s relaxing to see organization, open shelving units, and a room that is completely free from the usual clutter. Go through the room and make sure that anything used infrequently is stored out of plain sight.

Add More Light

Overhead light gets the job done as far as creating adequate visibility to prepare meals and clean. Increase the brightness with the natural light of windows, mirrors that reflect other light sources, and a few smaller fixtures. If you have the room, consider installing a skylight to take advantage of the natural resources on sunny days.

 

Incorporate Each of the Elements

Proper Feng Shui in the kitchen is established with a healthy balance of wood, metal, water, fire, and earth elements. If only one or two of these elements are able to overpower the others, it can become destructive to the positive energy. You can represent each element in the natural form or implement colors throughout the room to create a healthy balance.

Create Energy With Mirrors

Create Energy With Mirrors

If you have a smaller kitchen, there are ways to decorate so that it seems more spacious. A few well-placed mirrors grab and project the light coming from nearby fixtures and windows. You should notice an overall increase in the energy of the room when it is no longer lost in the walls.

Bring Nature Inside

Living things, like fresh plants, boost the energy in the kitchen by representing the earth element. It’s easy to overlook the benefits of fresh flowers or fruit with the ease of plastic placeholders, but nothing compares to authenticity.

Balance Colors

Every color serves a different purpose in the kitchen design based on their unique meaning. If you want the kitchen to give off a feeling of cleanliness and purity, white is always a safe color option that pairs well with others. Blues are believed to curb hunger and bring out a calm feeling if used in moderation. You may prefer the benefits of yellow tones that promote socialization, happiness, and positivity.

Put Thought Into Your Choice of Plates

The dishes that you eat from should feature a color that serves a purpose. Circular plates are believed to promote the flow of energy more freely than the square options. If you are trying to control or decrease your weight, blue is the best color choice. Boost appetite by serving on dishes that primarily feature orange, yellow, or red.

Get Your Money Back With These Top Kitchen Upgrades!

Get Your Money Back With These Top Kitchen Upgrades!

Increasing the value of a home with interior renovations is a goal that most homeowners have, especially if they plan to put their property on the market. As you already know the area that you should focus on the most if you want a return on the investment is the kitchen. This room has so much potential, especially if the home was built many years ago and has never gone through any upgrades.

Focus on the following areas of your kitchen and add natural or engineered stone whenever possible to ensure that you get the most bang for your buck.

Countertops

Upgrading outdated laminate countertops with natural or engineered stone is going to increase the value of your home exponentially. Why? Simply because natural stone and solid quartz countertops sell! It seems everyone wants granite these days – We’ve even noticed that renters are asking for these high-end countertops, too.

If you appreciate the appearance of a softer material, like marble, consider the option of mimicking it with a more durable engineered stone. CaesarStone, for example, manufacturers an exceptional line of low-maintenance, high-performance products that are created with the same visual features of natural marble or limestone.

Granite Kitchen Countertop

Cabinets

Think before you completely rip out all of your outdated cabinetry and end up sacrificing a large part of your budget. Refacing is a logical option if the cabinets are sturdy enough to keep. The least expensive way to update is to apply a fresh coat of neutral paint and get new cabinet pulls and knobs. Avoid doing anything that would turn off a potential buyer that may not appreciate your unique taste.

Walls

Collaborate with an engineer and electrician to find out any safe options for taking down walls or creating partitions. Open spaces are more appealing because it makes the room seem larger and brighter. This is really important if the room is on the smaller side because buyers may overlook a home for this reason alone.

Appliances

Don’t clutter your space with large appliances that are designed to do more than you need. If you want a return on your investment, the best thing to do is skip any big-ticket items that you don’t actually need. Consider the ways that you use the kitchen to entertain and cook so that you only upgrade the features that you will use the most.

Flooring

Stay away from laminate, linoleum, and vinyl when you have the option to upgrade to hardwood or stone flooring. Hardwood is very durable and attractive, but stone is going to provide more unique options. Granite kitchen tiles come in different colors from neutral beige to more unusual greens or blues. Travertine tiles are a great long-term investment because of the easy maintenance and are visually stunning. If you do decide to go with stone flooring, do the research to ensure that it’s suitable for the traffic and potential for exposure to spills in the kitchen.

Complete the contact form to begin working with our experienced team of designers on kitchen upgrades that are sure to provide a return on the investment.

Selling Your Home? These Upgrades Will Give You The Biggest Return on Investment

Selling Your Home

When selling your home, you want to be sure that you get the most out of your investment. Although you may be very pleased with the way your home looks, there are a few inexpensive upgrades that can help increase the value of your home and may make your home more appealing to buyers.

Make Your Kitchen Look Amazing

Kitchens are the most important room in the house when it comes to selling. A dated kitchen can make the difference between a buyer who falls in love with your house and one that simply walks out the door without interest. One simple way to update your kitchen is to refinish or repaint cabinets and update the hardware, adding new handles and hinges.

Choose colors that appeal to a wide range of home buyers and not those that are trendy. Consider replacing plain white appliances with stainless steel or laminate countertops with granite. There are builder-grade granites available that are less expensive than higher-end cuts. Granite countertops can add significant value to your home and be an excellent selling point for buyers.

The Bathroom of Your Dreams

Bathrooms are the second most important room in the house to buyers. Today, many buyers are looking for bathrooms with a spa-like feeling. Replace your plastic tub surround with tile, giving it a modern look with inexpensive white subway-style ceramic tile. For just a little more money, you can even add a recessed wall shelf in the bathroom as well. Old pedestal sinks are trending right now, so instead of replacing the sink, change the faucet fixtures to a more retro style and hang colorful towels next to it.

Many buyers now are seeking large, walk-in showers rather than whirlpool bathtubs. Neutral colors in bathrooms are the most well-received, so consider tones in light blue or green with white accents. Add some scented candles and fresh-smelling soaps to increase the spa feeling. Consider replacing a regular shower head with a handheld model that can be adjusted for different types of spray or add a rain shower for more of a spa feeling. Replace dated lighting and replace wallpaper with textured finishes.

Don’t Forget to Paint

One of the least expensive ways to update your home is by painting each room. A room that is freshly painted looks clean and updated. In addition, painting may force you to eliminate clutter which may also be a turn-off to buyers. Choose neutral shades like cream or beige so the buyer looks at the room as a blank canvas. If you have bright furniture or accessories, earth tones will mute those colors and look perfect with wood flooring. Consider bright pops of color in small rooms, like powder rooms and alcoves.

Reasons to Improve Your Flooring

Wood floors are trending today and it is possible to get a hardwood floor look at a reasonable price. Today, laminate flooring is affordable and other Earth-friendly options like bamboo and cork are growing in popularity. If you have covered hardwood with carpet, consider removing it and refinishing the wood to increase the value of your home. If you have hardwood floors that are scuffed or dull, consider renting a sander and refinishing them or hire a professional to do it for you. Many buyers are turning away from carpet completely, even in bedrooms, so consider replacing all carpeted floors with wood to increase the value of your home.

These tips can make your home look more appealing to buyers and can increase the value of your home without costing a significant amount of money. Selling your home? Give us a call or complete our easy contact form so that we can help you get the most value for your home without emptying your wallet.

With So Many Eye Catching Granite Countertop Colors, Which Do You Choose?

With So Many Eye Catching Granite Countertop

Every year more and more homeowners are discovering the benefits of granite countertops in their kitchens and baths. This surface is available in a variety of colors, including white, black, brown, beige, blue and red. With so many options, it is a suitable option for any number of kitchen designs.These tips can help you choose the right color so that you will be happy with your granite countertop for many years to come.

Modern Look With Dark Granite

If you are looking for a modern look in your kitchen, you may prefer to choose a dark granite color. Dark granite pairs well with a contemporary-themed kitchen and is eye-catching when used with white cabinets. The surface is rather eye-catching when it is used in a kitchen that has stark white cabinets and stainless steel appliances.

Bold accents, like bright colored bowls on a kitchen island or an orange candles would also work nicely in such kitchens. Adding stainless steel appliances will make your kitchen even more eye catching.

In the Kitchen. Granite Countertop, Sink,

A Classic Look with White Granite

White granite countertops are classic and timeless, giving your kitchen or bath a luxurious yet comfortable look. If your kitchen or bath is small, white countertops will make the room feel open and airy, making your friends and family feel welcome.

White granite works well with dark cabinetry, lightening up the room and eliminating the feeling of stuffiness that dark cabinets can often create. To hide stains from cooking or beauty products, which can occur during normal wear and tear, consider a white granite countertop with a pattern .

White kitchen with white granite tops, island and hanging pot rack

Timeless Neutral Granite

Neutral colors in granite are perfect if you are seeking a subtle yet versatile look for your kitchen or bath. Neutral colors are elegant and allow you to accessorize with a wide variety of colors. Neutral granite is one of the most popular colors as it works with virtually every style of kitchen or bath, whether you are seeking a modern or a classic look.

Neutral colors work well with wooden cabinets and subdued wall colors as well as in rustic rooms with wooden floors and pedestal or country sinks. Like white granite, it may be advisable to choose a neutral granite with a pattern to help hide any marks that can occur during normal use, such as food spills, scratches or beauty product marks.

Timeless Neutral Granite

Choosing the right color granite is important as granite can last forever. Complete our easy contact form for more information on choosing the perfect granite color for your kitchen or bath.

Home Improvement Money Saving Tips

Home Improvement Money Saving Tips

Saving money is always a necessity when it comes to planning a remodel and improving parts of the home. The financial commitment is often more than the original budget so it always helps to find ways to save money whenever possible.

Check out our budgeting tips for reducing expenses and ensuring that you can complete your projects without disruption.

  • Prioritize Needs over Wants

Divide your list of renovation goals into changes that you want and improvements that you cannot live without. If your entire goal is to make certain household features more functional or to replace kitchen appliances that do not work, put the necessities at the top of the list. It might be possible to hold off on parts of the project that are not needed to achieve your basic renovation goals.

  • Handle the Demolition Yourself

Knocking down walls and removing old materials is a part of the cost that a professional will charge in a home improvement project. As long as you feel confident and understand how to properly tear out areas that will be replaced, why not handle it yourself? Take note to avoid any live wires, plumbing, and load-bearing walls that could put you in danger or cause the repairs to become an additional expense.

  • Leave the Kitchen Sink

It’s expensive to relocate plumbing so it might be smarter for your budget to simple plan the project around existing hookups. This is also true of electrical wiring that would have to be installed or removed by a licensed electrician. Only do what is necessary to keep from sacrificing a considerable part of the budget to move one sink.

  • Start with the Small Projects First

Before you jump into an entire home renovation, begin with something easy and inexpensive. Once you complete a front porch addition or replacing an entryway door, it will be easier to understand the process of buying new materials, paying for labor, and going through construction. Prior experience will help tremendously when it’s time to negotiate larger projects with contractors.

  • Budget for the Unexpected

No matter how prepared you are to take on a project of any size, there is a good chance that you will hit a snag at some point. Set aside a separate budget specifically to cushion these unforeseen expenses so that you never become stressed with the unexpected.

  • Get an Estimate from a Professional

The average homeowner is not able to complete a renovation without going over their set budget. It’s always smart to have a professional contractor provide a more realistic estimate based on the labor, materials, and details of the project. In the long run this is going to help save up an adequate amount before you ever decide to get started.

We are happy to come out to your home and provide an estimate on your project so that you can plan ahead. Call us to set up an appointment that is suitable with your schedule.

How to Choose the Right Kitchen Sink

How to Choose the Right Kitchen Sink (1)

The sink is the most used and necessary part of every kitchen. Think about how frequently you reach over to wash your hands or clean up as you are cooking. If it has been a while since you’ve upgraded the sink in your home, you may not know about all of the options that have become available over the last few years. The plain square or rectangular stainless steel basins built into most older homes are no longer the only option when it comes to a replacement or total kitchen remodel. After considering the following few design factors, it will be easier to choose the right sink for your home.

Questions To Ask Yourself

Narrow down your options by asking the following important questions about your new sink:

  • What type of installation is needed and are there any restrictions?
  • Which size and configuration fits best with your space?
  • What is your ideal type of sink material?

Three Types Of Sink Installations

  • Drop-in – The easiest type to install requires a cutout in the countertop. A sink is fitted on top of the base cabinet into the empty space and supported by the flanges. It does leave a tiny space at the edge where the sink and countertop meet that can easily catch debris.
  • Flush Mount – Tile edge sinks are basically the same as the drop-in, but the countertop is tiled so that it sits flush. A grout line seals the tiny gap between the edge of the sink and tile.
  • Undermount – Working from beneath the countertop, the undermount sink is supported by the cabinet or left hanging with the support of fastening devices. It doesn’t leave any areas that moisture or food would get stuck when cleaning.

Kitchen Sink Configuration

Kitchen Sink Configuration and Size

Figuring out the right size is going to rely mostly on the available space you have to install the sink. The configuration is the shape of the bowl, number of bowls, the shape of the corners, and number of faucet holes. It’s possible to install a corner or single-bowl sink to conserve space if size is restricted. A large kitchen might accommodate multiple-bowls of varying depth.

Sink Material

Choosing the right material is a matter of personal taste as well as key features of each option.

Weigh the positive and negative traits of each of these different sink material options:

  • Acrylic – An economical and low-maintenance acrylic sink easy to mold into any desired shape and it resists stains. They are usually reinforced with fiberglass to ensure that they are also durable.
    Cons include intolerance to high heat and the necessity to avoid petroleum-based products because it can cause damage.
  • Cast Iron – If durability is a major priority, cast iron finished with a porcelain enamel coating is going to provide a serious benefit. Although it will eventually accumulate scratches, chips, and normal wear, it is very easy to fix. It’s a good idea to stick to the undermount application rather than a drop-in because the material is heavy.
    Cons include the chance of showing rust if wear or chips leave the material exposed, and it is not compatible with abrasive cleaners.
  • Fireclay – Rather than form the primary structure the way that cast iron does, fireclay is the base used to support a matte or glossy clay-based structure. It’s a type of ceramic that is fired at a high temperature to provide durability.
    Cons include requiring a very careful installation to avoid cracking, and some options are on the expensive side.
  • Stainless Steel – The stainless steel material that has been used for decades remains a top choice for most people because it is sleek and durable. It’s easy to clean, affordable, and resistant to damage from dropped dishes.
    Cons include showing water spots if not properly cleaned and dried after use, and the chance of visible scratching if a polished finish is installed.

Below are the a few of the manufactures we carry:

Eclipse Stainless

Click Here To View Eclipse Brochure

Oceana Glass

Oceana Undermount Sinks Brochure

Artisan

Artisan Manufacturing Mini Brochure

Call us to schedule an appointment to visit our showroom so that we can help you make important decisions about your new sink installation.

Buyer’s Guide: Engineered Stone Countertops

Buyer’s Guide Engineered Stone Countertops

Making environmentally sensitive choices is an effort that most Americans care about these days. Engineered stone countertops are Eco-friendly, hygienic, low-maintenance, versatile, and incredibly attractive. It is the ideal choice for almost any setting that could use a touch of elegance and unique style.

Which products make a great countertop surface?

Kitchen countertops of engineered stone are designed to stand up to the high-wear of such an installation. Acid-resistant and durable engineered stone brands that we are proud to carry and recommend include Cambria, Marble Systems, Caesartone, and Silestone. As long as the surface is nonporous, it will never stain, crack, mold, or scratch, even if it is used in a frequently humid bathroom.

What are the primary characteristics of engineered stone?

Beauty is one of the first things that people notice about any slab of engineered stone. It is incredibly strong, durable, and resistant to almost any type of damage. The surface cannot accumulate mold or bacteria because is it completely non-absorbent and easy to clean. Heat-resistance makes it ideal for any application, even if it is near a hot stove or fireplace.

characteristics of engineered stone

What are some advantages to using these products?

Colors and styles vary so greatly in the engineered stone products that it can mimic the appearance of natural stone. Anyone that appreciates the appearance of delicate marble or limestone can own the look with the addition of strength offered in engineered stone. Avoiding the use of natural resources protects the environment, and manufactured products actually use recycled materials in production. Installation is very simple if you hire a contractor that is familiar with handling the product.

  • Color: Dozens of colors are available, and quartz offers one clear benefit over natural stone: more options than nature alone can provide.Just consider shades like apple martini green or funky crocodile-print surfaces. Colors range from quietly traditional to ultra hip.

Are there any negative aspects to choosing engineered stone?

It’s tough to find any downside when it comes to such a versatile option, but it can be difficult to create smooth curves. Otherwise, there is almost no limit to the applications possible with the help of an experienced contractor. Unless you are determined to have authentic natural stone inside your home, there is no reason not to choose an engineered product.

  • Practicality: One of the most practical options for busy baths, quartz stands up to staining, heat and scratching. Unlike natural stone, it never requires sealing.

We look forward to helping you find the perfect slab of engineered stone that suits your taste in color and texture options. Work with a manufacturer that not only understands engineered stone, but offers an entire showroom of different options for you to choose from. Provide your information through our contact form so that we can set up an appointment soon.

8 Secret Ways To Make The Most Out Of Your Kitchen Backsplash

8 Secret Ways To Make The Most Out Of Your Kitchen Backsplash

The backsplash is a staple of the modern kitchen design because it is equally functional and decorative. It makes sense to protect the wall from cooking and cleaning stains while featuring a stylish accent that is visually appealing. Material options are not limited to traditional ceramic tiles with the increasing popularity of less common designs. Step up the personal touches in the kitchen by featuring a stunning backsplash design that reflects personal style and creativity.

Laser-cut tile
Frequently created with quartz or marble, intricate tiles that are cut into elaborate designs fit together perfectly for an exquisite design.

Diagonal tile
The sleek design created by placing diamond-shaped tiles creates a clean finish for homeowners that prefer a basic style. It is worth noting that the construction is more complex when fitting the top and bottom pieces correctly, and the installer will likely charge a higher fee.

Bold pattern tile

Bold pattern tile
Covering a large wall with wallpaper is such an outdated design solution, but tile featuring a large pattern is an elegant alternative. Overscale patterns are easy to match and repeat to suit any size wall in need of a backsplash.

Subway tile
The classic design of the tile often used in subway stations will never go out of style. Materials are easy to set to cover a small area behind a sink or extending all the way to the ceiling.

Kitchen Backsplash

Herringbone tile
Laying out individual pieces of texturally stimulating herringbone pattern tiles seems extremely tedious, but it is possible to skip the hassle by ordering materials already set on a piece of backing material.

Industrial Chic
Rustic meets contemporary in a marriage of sheer sophistication with this style. Envision textured surfaces arranged with clean lines that demand the admiration of anyone that enters the room.

Specialty-shaped tile

Specialty-shaped tile
It’s easy to work with simple squares, but there is no limit when working with a skilled manufacturer that is willing to work with specific shape and color preferences.

Custom mosaic tile
Manufacturers offer a selection of mosaic designs, but imagine the possibilities of a custom piece created and installed by an actual artist.

This is only a sample of the unique material options that could be used to create a custom backsplash design. Many homeowners view this feature as a final touch, but we believe that an inspired vision can make it the focal point of the entire room. It only takes a moment to fill out the contact form so that we can begin collaborating on a truly unique design.

How To Choose The Perfect Edge Profile For Your Countertop

How To Choose The Perfect Edge Profile For Your Countertop

Adding granite countertops to any remodel project is not as simple as picking a natural stone slab and having it professionally installed. Choosing the edge profile is an important decision that deserves more consideration that choosing the best looking option. A smooth edge is more durable than projected corners, but it may not be worth sacrificing the silhouette that you truly desire for strength. Get to know the basics of each option so that you can make an educated decision based on which edge profile suits both your style and needs.

  • Classic Ogee – A very classic look that is more ornate than a smooth edge, typically featuring a dramatic curve. The appearance of a clean, rounded silhouette is perfect for adding a focal point to an otherwise standard kitchen island.
  • Basic Bullnose – Sleek, rounded edges at the top and bottom edge are a very popular edge option. It is ideal for use in slabs that extend beyond the edge of the cabinet or surrounding an island.
  • Triple Bullnose – Featuring a more regal appearance, the waterfall edge features a look of stacked bullnose edges. This style is a great highlight to a small space, but it does require more complex cleaning in the details.
  • Polished Standard – A squared shape is one of the most popular for thicker pieces of engineered stone because it is elegant, yet easy to maintain. With a common application as kitchen countertops, is incredibly durable as the edges are perfectly smooth and flat without any ornate details.
  • Half-bullnose – The top of this edge is rounded the same as a standard bullnose design, but the bottom is squared. Homeowners prefer this selection near sinks because the square bottom would prevent any water from making contact with the cabinetry.
  • Double Bevel – A specialized cut that emphasizes the thickness and beauty of the natural stone slab with an angular cut edge. This premium selection is generally created by layering two pieces together for enhanced visual interest.
  • Dupont Apron – This custom design option appears similar to the classic ogee placed atop a classic edge, featuring a cove-like curving. It is popular for use with granite, but homeowners also use it frequently for bathroom marble applications.
  • Dupont Bullnose – An ornamental version of the bullnose is comparable to the waterfall appearance of a triple bullnose. The major difference is that the edge appears similar to a staircase for a stylized take on the classic design.

Call to set up an appointment so that our experts can help you decide on the best edge to complete your natural or engineered stone countertop. It’s important to feel satisfied when renovating a kitchen or bathroom in a style that reflects your own.

4 Free Tools You Must Try Before You Remodel

4 Free Tools You Must Try Before You Remodel

Although remodeling can be an exciting time for any homeowner, it can also be very stressful. There are so many decisions that must be made, including the colors and textures you want in the new room. Do you want natural stone surrounding your fireplace? Will granite counters be feasible for me to use? Do I need a backsplash? All of these are questions that can be difficult when you are unable to see the vision before you begin. However, by using these free tools, you can get a better idea of how the room will look once the remodel is complete.

Kitchen Visualizer
Click the image to try the Kitchen Visualizer

Kitchen Visualizer

Use the Kitchen Visualizer to choose from four different kitchen layouts. Click the different countertops, backsplashes and cabinet colors to see how the colors all blend together. You can even select specialty flooring to get an idea how the new floor will look in your kitchen. You can even filter the counters between natural stone and quartz to narrow down your options.Check to see if the backsplash you like works with the countertops or if quartz may be the better option.

Choose the following Visualizer Options:

4 Kitchen Layouts

Natural Stone or Granite Options

146 Countertop Colors

 

10 Different Cabinet Colors

42 Backsplash Colors

25 Flooring Options

Bathroom Visualizer

Bathroom Visualizer
Click the image to try the Bathroom Visualizer

When it comes time to remodel your bathroom, use the Bathroom Visualizer to mix and match colors so that you can get an idea how they will blend together. Choose from two different bathroom layouts and try the various options to see how they look. Try a mosaic look combined with a quartz-topped vanity or see how a solid colored base floor will look with a uniquely colored cabinet.You can try changing the quartz counter and add a different mosaic tile to see if you prefer that look. The combinations are endless.

Choose the following Visualizer Options:

16 Mosaics Choices

12 Floor Colors

10 Cabinet Colors

12 Countertops

2 Bathroom Layouts

Edge Visualizer

Edge Visualizer
Click the image to try the Edge Visualizer

Choosing the right edge for a countertop can be a difficult choice as it is often difficult to know which type will look best for the room. The Edge Visualizer allows you to see two different stone selections and choose a variety of edges to see which look you like the most. Select a granite counter with a beveled edge or try a more unique edging, like the Double Ogee or the Triple Pencil.

Choose the following Visualizer Options:

2 Countertops Colors

 

12 of the most popular Edge Profiles

Stacked Stone Visualizer

Stacked Stone Visualizer
Click the image to try the Stacked Stone Visualizer

Precision cut stacked stone panels add a luxurious feel to any room. If you want to make a statement in a room, stacked stone panels are the perfect solution. However, since they are not often found in homes, it can be difficult to determine which color will look best. Use the Stacked Stone Visualizer to determine which best fits the room you are remodeling. The visualizer provides the perfect example of how stacked stone panels can add a dramatic effect to any home.

Choose the following Visualizer Options:

2 Layout options

35 Different Colors

These free visualizers are provided to help homeowners create a unique, coordinated look for almost any room. Every design can be printed, download and even emailed to friends, family and your contractor. To learn more about creating your own unique look,  fill out our contact form. One of our helpful sales associates will provide you with answers to all your questions.

9 Things You Should Know Before Embarking On Your Kitchen Remodel

9 Things You Should Know Before Embarking On Your Kitchen Remodel

Renovating kitchens is a huge undertaking and, too often, homeowners begin the home improvement without an understanding of just how complicated it can be. These nine tips can help keep you complete a kitchen remodeling job with fewer headaches and less stress.

Think About Necessities

Although it may be fun to add extras to your kitchen, like that little wine refrigerator or a specialty faucet, try to think about what is absolutely necessary in your kitchen. For example, spending money on an extra sink that is separate from your main sink allows someone else to help prepare food or do dishes without being in the way making it much more practical than a wine refrigerator you may never use.

Research and Plan

Look at your existing kitchen and think about traffic patterns before you begin your renovation. Measure doors to be sure the appliances you choose will actually fit through them. Experts say that traffic areas should be at least 42 inches wide in homes with one cook and 48 inches in areas with more than one cook.

Hire Professionals

Of all the home improvement projects possible in a home, a kitchen renovation can be one of the most complicated. Therefore, unless you have extensive experience in overhauling kitchens, it is best to hire a qualified contractor to do the work for you.

Schematic Design

Create a drawing of your kitchen with accurate measurements before beginning the remodeling job. Include as much detail as possible, including heights of cabinets and ceilings as well as plumbing and electrical fixtures.

Fixture and Finish Specifications

Decide what type of fixtures you need and choose the exact finish you want. Decide whether you want granite countertops or another surface, whether you want stainless surfaces and what type of faucets you may want in your sink area. Remember that your fixtures and finishes should complement each other.

Fixture and Finish Specifications

Contractor Estimates

Most professionals will develop design and construction documents for you that will outline exactly what is supposed to happen. Those documents may also include information on what the process is should there be any complications. In any construction, there can be snags along the way, anything from a granite countertop that comes in the wrong color or an electrical problem that prevents an appliance from working properly. Be sure that your contractor explains the process should things go wrong so there are no surprises.

Contracts and Documents

If you have hired a professional, it is critical to get all agreements in writing. Even if the contractor is someone you have known for a long time, having agreements in writing protects both the contractor and the homeowner should something go wrong.

Get Ready for Demolition

Once all the agreements have been signed and plans created, it is time to prepare for demolition of your old kitchen. Being organized can make the entire process run smoothly, so plan to have boxes for all your cookware and dishes that you can label to make it easier to replace them once the kitchen is completed. Prepare for not having anywhere to cook or do dishes for a few days.

The Dreaded Punch List

Punch lists are often about the little things such as missing knobs, paint touch-ups or broken tiles that occur after the job has been completed. Never pay the contractor’s final payment until the punch list items are completed. By withholding final payment, it is more likely the contractor will return to finish the minor things, but if the contractor does not return to complete the items, use the final payment to hire someone else.

These nine tips can help the remodeling of your kitchen go smoothly. Even if problems arise, you will have a plan in place to manage them.If you are contemplating a kitchen overhaul, complete our contact form or call  908.782.7773. One of our helpful sales associates will contact you as soon as possible to help guide you through your renovation.

Planning Your Outdoor Kitchen

Bringing the Indoors, Out with an Outdoor Kitchen

The summer is a time for outdoor entertaining, but a customized outdoor kitchen can be enjoyed throughout the year if planned correctly. Making careful choices regarding everything from the flooring to the appliances will provide years of entertainment for friends and loved ones. Here’s what you should think about before you build your outdoor kitchen.

Include the Four Essential Spaces

Every functional kitchen should have a designated area for preparing food, cooking, serving, and cleaning. Start planning with these essentials and make sure that there is adequate space to work in each area without being crowded. The more work that can be done outside means less time running back inside the house.

Add a Roof Structure

Add a Roof StructureAn outdoor space that you plan to spend any time enjoying should be protected with a roof structure. No one wants to cancel plans because of unexpected rain, and with a canopy overhead, you don’t have to. It also minimizes the amount of damage the sun and rain will gradually cause to the appliances and furniture. You don’t have to create a complete enclosure as long as you can provide a comfortable cooking and dining area that is out of the direct weather.

Install Durable Cabinets and Walking Surfaces

There is no sense in cutting corners when designing a luxurious outdoor kitchen if you want it to last. Walking surfaces need to be treated for weather protection and sturdy enough to handle the weight of the kitchen and multiple guests. If you want to go with a raised platform, wood or composite decking is a great place to start. Slate and travertine stone pavers are options that add slip-resistance, or deck tiles over concrete add an aesthetic advantage. Choose a walking surface that is pleasing to your personal taste but also serves the need for sturdiness and durability.

Normal cabinets that are built for indoor use are susceptible to damage when exposed to cold temperatures and rain. Always go with cabinet solutions that are designed specifically for outdoor applications.

Weatherproof Your Appliances

Speaking of the weather and your expensive appliances, it’s important to choose products that can withstand living outdoors. Stainless steel is a very durable option that not only holds up against the elements, it is easy to clean. Items that are more susceptible to damage should each have a cover to provide an extra element of protection throughout the years.

Choose the Right Materials for your Bar Top

Natural stone is the way to go when designing an outdoor bar top. Granite, soapstone, and Bluestone are attractive options that can withstand years of use in the kitchen. It’s an area that your friends and family can gather to prepare food, eat, or relax together enjoying a few drinks. Take advantage of the opportunity to make this heavy use area an attractive and unique focal point.

Forget the days of staying inside simply because the weather is unsuitable for cooking out. An exceptional outdoor kitchen is a great way to bring entertaining family and friends to the next level. We would be happy to schedule an appointment to provide expert advice and recommendations for your project as soon as you fill out our contact form.

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The Perfect Small Kitchen

The Perfect Small Kitchen

There is no rule that a small kitchen cannot be as functional and stylish of a larger room. Using a smart strategy to make the best use of every available square inch can make the kitchen seem larger and more inviting. Use the following tips as necessary to achieve the best small kitchen layout.

Begin With Your Work Triangle
Begin With Your Work Triangle

Begin With Your Work Triangle

The sink, cooktop, and refrigerator are the most necessary features of every small kitchen makeover. They flow best in a concept of the three triangle points, with a minimum of 4 feet in between each area. This rule helps to ensure that there are no complications down the road with opening the dishwasher or refrigerator simultaneously.

Maximize The Counter Space

Ideally, there should be 18 inches of countertop space on one side of the sink, and 24 inches on the other. The cooktop should have at least 12 inches on each side, with additional space behind if it is situated in an island. A traditional refrigerator should have 15 inches of space on the handle side, or to any side of a side-by-side model. Counter space near the refrigerator is not a priority if there is inadequate space to open the appliance door.

Consider Traffic Flow
Consider Traffic Flow

Consider Traffic Flow

Kitchens that typically only have a single cook need 36 inches of space between the work areas. Increase up to 48 inches if there are multiple cooks and the space permits the open area. Doors should not swing into the empty work space, and it is best to eliminate as many doors as possible to conserve wall space.

Eliminate The Overhead Cabinets

A small kitchen can feel more closed in with large cabinets crowding the space. Open up the area by taking down the traditional cabinets and replacing with pot racks, spice holders, and other alternative storage options. The great thing about a small kitchen is that the slightest remodel can make of seem more spacious.

Slimmer Appliances
Slimmer Appliances

Slimmer Appliances

Replace any big appliances with smaller versions anytime there is an opportunity. Dishwashers, stoves, and refrigerators come in smaller widths to accommodate the needs of a small kitchen.

Choose Upgraded Fixtures And Materials

Upgrading a large kitchen is going to logically entail more cost for the materials and fixtures. A small kitchen space makes otherwise expensive natural stone countertops and high-end hardware more affordable. Make the best use of minimal space by upgrading in ways that reflect personal style, without worrying about exceeding the budget.

We look forward to scheduling an appointment to provide assistance designing your small kitchen as soon as you give us a call. Follow my blog with Bloglovin