Blog

Register Here

Register Here

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.

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

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.

1) Accessible entries with safe well lit walkways.

2) Lever style door knobs and faucets for easy access.

3) Fewer transitions in flooring and non-skid surfaces.

4) Sensor light switches and LED night lighting.

5) Seated work stations in kitchen and bath.

6) Special cabinet features for added accessibility.

7) Easily accessible appliances.