We hear the word “trend” associated with many of the products we purchase. In the world of design, trend describes a design approach currently being used by numerous designers. When the word “trending” is used, that information is typically based on market research of what people have actually purchased in recent fiscal periods.

The National Kitchen & Bath Association recently did a survey of over 350 designers across the United States and Canada to determine overall Kitchen and Bath trends for 2012. The list they compiled included things such as darker finishes, glass backsplashes, and shades of gray.

But just how important are trends when deciding on a unified kitchen or bath design? A good kitchen and bath designer will consider many things when helping clients choose their cabinetry such as the architectural style of the home, the way the family uses the kitchen or bath, the style of the furnishings the family owns, and the color tones used in other rooms throughout the house.

While it might be fun to consider trendy materials when compiling your project wish list, be prepared to leave them out of the overall design. For instance, glass backsplashes might look sparkling in one setting and gaudy in others, and dark or gray stains can look very rich in some spaces while they might make other rooms seem gloomy. Trendy materials should bring cohesiveness to a design and should not be incorporated just for the sake of the trend itself.

Family House depends on continued donations in order to provide free accommodations, food and support for the families of children receiving treatment for life threatening illnesses at UCSF Medical Center.

http://familyhouseinc.org/?p=home

One of the most common questions we hear from people who visit our showroom for the first time is, “Generally speaking, how much does it cost to remodel a kitchen?” We wish there was an easy answer to that question, but there are too many factors to consider. Here is a short list of variables that will impact the overall cost of a kitchen remodel:

• ·         The size of the kitchen, and whether the space is being reconfigured.
• ·         Plumbing and electrical needs and changes.
• ·         The quality of the cabinetry, the options, and the trims.
• ·         The type of countertop material.
• ·         The brand of appliances.
• ·         The type of flooring material.
• ·         The quality of plumbing and lighting fixtures.
• ·         The going rate for a dependable licensed contractor in your area.

Before you begin to consider the items listed above, first determine the total amount you can comfortably afford to spend. Next, let your designer know, to the best of your knowledge, what the scope of the work will include. Be realistic about the cost of adding numerous options and trims to your project. Finally, keep in mind that the most visible item you will purchase is the cabinetry, so be sure to choose a reputable cabinetry showroom with experienced designers to help you make the best selection for your project and budget.

The National Association of the Remodeling Industry, NARI, has a helpful worksheet for determining how much you can afford to finance for a home remodel project:

Go to > http://www.nari.org > Homeowners > Budget

The Craftsmen Network has a helpful cost calculator:

Go to > http://www.craftsmennetwork.com/calculators-kitchen.html

December is a special time because we have a sense of wrapping up the calendar year at work while gearing up for the holidays. This year, as part of our holiday activities, we decided Diablo Valley Cabinetry would sponsor a food drive. Thanks to the participation of many of the contractors and manufacturer representatives with whom we do business, we were able to make a nice donation to the Contra Costa Solano Food Bank. Many thanks to all who participated and Happy Holidays to all!

http://www.foodbankccs.org/

Happy Holidays from Diablo Valley Cabinetry!

As we finish out 2011, I am thinking of all the beautiful new kitchens our clients will be enjoying as they prepare their holiday meals.

While books seem to have given way to eReaders, I still think a cookbook is a wonderful gift for any cooking enthusiast. Epicurious has a list of the best cookbooks of 2011 if you are still trying to fill out your shopping list. http://www.epicurious.com/articlesguides/howtocook/cookbooks/best-cookbooks-2011

Our best wishes for a happy and healthy holiday season!

There is no time like the holidays to make us realize the value of a well-organized home. Decorating the house makes all the out of place items look like meaningless clutter. One home improvement that is growing in popularity is the built-in mail center or home office. Whether converting a small hallway nook or entire room, there are many options for creating the perfect organizational center for any space.

Especially in the winter, we often return home after dark. With the Maestro Wireless remote from Lutron at our fingertips, we can turn on the house lights from our car. It makes for easy, safe entry into the home.

www.lutron.com

If you are concerned about investing money in remodeling your current home, here are a few things to consider:

1)      What is the current value of your home as it is?

2)      What is the estimated increased value of the remodel project? (see link below)

3)      Will remodeling your home enhance your quality of life?

The following link is a report that shows the cost vs. value of remodeling in the San Francisco Bay Area for 2011-12: http://www.remodeling.hw.net/2011/costvsvalue/division/pacific/city/san-francisco–ca.aspx 

If the estimated increased value doesn’t convince you it would be worthwhile to remodel your home, then also consider the years of increased quality of life you will enjoy once your project is completed. Perhaps an updated kitchen will make entertaining family and friends more fun, or a newly designed bathroom will make space for that soaking tub you’ve always wanted. All the value should not be measured in terms of dollars alone.

Scores Highest in Quality in Local Service Company Customer Satisfaction Study

Diablo Valley Cabinetry proudly announces that we been awarded the prestigious Diamond Certified symbol for the fourth consecutive year after being rated highest in quality in ongoing customer satisfaction ratings performed by American Ratings Corporation.

In order to earn Diamond Certified, a local service company must apply to be rated by American Ratings Corporation (ARC) and pass each step of its twelve-step rating and certification process.   ARC actually pulls a random sample of past customers from the applicant company’s files and surveys typically 100 customers by telephone. Not only do the customers rate the applicant company on a 1 to 10 scale for quality, but also they indicate their willingness to return or refer other consumers to the company. Most companies can’t pass the rating because a customer satisfaction survey score of greater than 90 on a 100 scale is required. In addition, ARC verifies liability and workers’ compensation insurance, state license status, complaint status, business practices, financial stability and legal judgment status. Additionally, ongoing customer satisfaction surveys are conducted to ensure the Diamond Certified Company is maintaining its high customer satisfaction.

For more information, visit www.diamondcertified.org