While your home may have plenty of closets and other storage spaces, plenty of items are best stored in the bedroom itself. Bedding, clothing for all seasons, and even some business or hobby equipment often ends up being stored inside the master bedroom.
You to make better use of your master bedroom and fit in plenty of storage without feeling crowded or cramped with some remodeling. Consider these five remodeling projects that add tons of space to the master bedroom.
You to make better use of your master bedroom and fit in plenty of storage without feeling crowded or cramped with some remodeling. Consider these five remodeling projects that add tons of space to the master bedroom.
1. Switch to a Captain's Bed
You may know them as storage beds, but a bed featuring a base of cabinets or drawers was once called a captain's bed. Add custom cabinets to your existing bed to immediately increase your storage space without taking up any extra square footage.
Aside from the cabinet and drawer style of storage bed, you can also find lifting models that tilt the entire mattress up so you can fit larger items and boxes under your bed. Some people find it tricky to lift heavy mattress and box spring sets even with high quality lifting storage frames, while side and end drawers remain easy to operate regardless of the size or weight of the mattress above.
2. Build Storage into the Headboard
Headboards are another ideal place for adding a little extra storage without feeling crowded. From open and floating shelving systems to headboards with hidden cabinets and sliding doors, you can create space for storing books, holiday decorations, and seasonal sports gear in the bedroom.
If you can't find any storage headboards that fit your bedroom's current style of decor, consider ordering a custom headboard. You can set the size of each compartment to match the specific types of items you need to store instead of having to conform to existing shelves and drawer sizes.
If you can't find any storage headboards that fit your bedroom's current style of decor, consider ordering a custom headboard. You can set the size of each compartment to match the specific types of items you need to store instead of having to conform to existing shelves and drawer sizes.
3. Consider Inset Wall Shelving
Wall shelving takes advantage of the often overlooked vertical storage space available on the walls of a master bedroom. However, large and deep shelving units can still make a room feel smaller if you need to add dozens of different shelves to accommodate a large book or record collection.
You can open up the walls and install inset shelving to make the most of limited space for extra storage with minimal structural changes.
Unlike hanging a shelf or two with brackets and screws, inset shelving is a project that requires the help of a professional. You don't want to accidentally cut an electrical wire or damage plumbing while installing the new shelves.
You can open up the walls and install inset shelving to make the most of limited space for extra storage with minimal structural changes.
Unlike hanging a shelf or two with brackets and screws, inset shelving is a project that requires the help of a professional. You don't want to accidentally cut an electrical wire or damage plumbing while installing the new shelves.
4. Expand Your Seating Options
Freestanding wardrobes, drawers, and cabinets are an obvious choice for increasing storage in a master bedroom. But if you consider chests and cabinets too boxy and bulky for a small bedroom, consider a seating unit that also contains the same amount of storage under cushions or in front access cabinets.
Benches, stools, futons, and even armchairs are available with integrated storage for adding two new features to the room with one piece of furniture.
Benches, stools, futons, and even armchairs are available with integrated storage for adding two new features to the room with one piece of furniture.
5. Add Clips, Pegs, and Baskets
Shelves aren’t your only option for adding more vertical storage options. Fill your walls with spring-loaded clips and freestanding pegs to hold clothing items, bags, and other small items that you need to keep on hand. You can easily mount peg rails at chair rail level or eye level to hold anything you can pack into a bag or suspend from a hanger.
Increase your bedroom's storage space while making the room more beautiful and functional at the same time with assistance from us here at Kitchen Expo. Request our help to design a master bedroom with twice as much storage or more while maintaining a comfortable spaciousness.
Increase your bedroom's storage space while making the room more beautiful and functional at the same time with assistance from us here at Kitchen Expo. Request our help to design a master bedroom with twice as much storage or more while maintaining a comfortable spaciousness.
A big kitchen remodel is an exciting project that will add value to your life and value to your home. But a remodel is also a huge disruption in your life that few homeowners fully understand going in. If you're about to embark on this life change, here are a few tips for setting up a temporary kitchen to get you through.
1. Find a Good Spot
The first thing you'll need is a space you can temporarily set up shop in while your kitchen is unusable. This will depend on your needs, family size, and your house's setup. Your contractor can help find a good temporary spot, but common ones include the laundry room, garage, lesser-used bathroom, or utility room.
For the most part, what you'll need is a sink, counter space to work on, and some storage space. You can DIY things like a counter top and pantry shelving. Small appliances — like a mini-fridge, toaster oven, food processor, microwave, camp stove, or table-top grill — often replace large ones.
2. Pack Up Everything You Can
If your temporary kitchen is small, you may need to be ruthless when it comes to packing the real kitchen. Most temporary spaces are makeshift and have little storage, so be careful about deciding how much you need each kitchen item. Try using plastic and paper tableware as much as possible (to reduce space and sink use).
If you're having trouble deciding what you can live without, box it all up and store it in an accessible location. Label boxes clearly and make sure you can get to them. You can always retrieve an item if you decide you need it later.
3. Plan Meals Ahead of Time
Meal planning is key to surviving in a temporary cooking space. You should make the effort even if you're not normally a planner for several reasons. First, planning will tell you which utensils, cookware, and spices you can pack and which you shouldn't. Also, because you'll have less prep space and food storage, you'll need to buy only what you need and use it quickly. Third, planning will give you some order in the chaos that you're likely to experience.
How should you plan meals? Start early by deciding on some staple menu items that are quick and require only a few ingredients. Focus on ways to use the appliances you have access to. Plan for smaller quantities as well. Save experimentation with new recipes until you have your new kitchen in place.
4. Pre-Make Meals
If you don't have a full stove or refrigerator, cooking will become much more complicated. One of the best solutions is to pre-make meals and freeze or store them. This not only allows you to avoid cooking when you can't, but it also allows you to cook larger batches in advance and to pack up lesser-used items once those meals have been prepared.
If possible, consider buying an extra freezer for the duration of the remodel so you can pack it with pre-made meals in plastic containers or bags. You can also find instructions online to make meal kits filled with nonperishable foods so you only have to add perishable ingredients at the last minute.
5. Budget for Eating Out
No matter how well you plan for a kitchen remodel, the inconvenience will still occasionally to you. This frustration could be after a long day's work, when the kids are getting in your way, or when you want to entertain rather than sit at home around a card table for dinner. So, work with this necessity by budgeting for dining out as part of your remodel costs. You'll save your sanity and possibly your family relationships.
At Kitchen Expo , we have experience with all types and sizes of kitchen renovation projects. We can help you survive and thrive during yours as well. Visit us today to get started on the next phase of your new kitchen.
1. Find a Good Spot
The first thing you'll need is a space you can temporarily set up shop in while your kitchen is unusable. This will depend on your needs, family size, and your house's setup. Your contractor can help find a good temporary spot, but common ones include the laundry room, garage, lesser-used bathroom, or utility room.
For the most part, what you'll need is a sink, counter space to work on, and some storage space. You can DIY things like a counter top and pantry shelving. Small appliances — like a mini-fridge, toaster oven, food processor, microwave, camp stove, or table-top grill — often replace large ones.
2. Pack Up Everything You Can
If your temporary kitchen is small, you may need to be ruthless when it comes to packing the real kitchen. Most temporary spaces are makeshift and have little storage, so be careful about deciding how much you need each kitchen item. Try using plastic and paper tableware as much as possible (to reduce space and sink use).
If you're having trouble deciding what you can live without, box it all up and store it in an accessible location. Label boxes clearly and make sure you can get to them. You can always retrieve an item if you decide you need it later.
3. Plan Meals Ahead of Time
Meal planning is key to surviving in a temporary cooking space. You should make the effort even if you're not normally a planner for several reasons. First, planning will tell you which utensils, cookware, and spices you can pack and which you shouldn't. Also, because you'll have less prep space and food storage, you'll need to buy only what you need and use it quickly. Third, planning will give you some order in the chaos that you're likely to experience.
How should you plan meals? Start early by deciding on some staple menu items that are quick and require only a few ingredients. Focus on ways to use the appliances you have access to. Plan for smaller quantities as well. Save experimentation with new recipes until you have your new kitchen in place.
4. Pre-Make Meals
If you don't have a full stove or refrigerator, cooking will become much more complicated. One of the best solutions is to pre-make meals and freeze or store them. This not only allows you to avoid cooking when you can't, but it also allows you to cook larger batches in advance and to pack up lesser-used items once those meals have been prepared.
If possible, consider buying an extra freezer for the duration of the remodel so you can pack it with pre-made meals in plastic containers or bags. You can also find instructions online to make meal kits filled with nonperishable foods so you only have to add perishable ingredients at the last minute.
5. Budget for Eating Out
No matter how well you plan for a kitchen remodel, the inconvenience will still occasionally to you. This frustration could be after a long day's work, when the kids are getting in your way, or when you want to entertain rather than sit at home around a card table for dinner. So, work with this necessity by budgeting for dining out as part of your remodel costs. You'll save your sanity and possibly your family relationships.
At Kitchen Expo , we have experience with all types and sizes of kitchen renovation projects. We can help you survive and thrive during yours as well. Visit us today to get started on the next phase of your new kitchen.
For many families, the kitchen is considered the heart of the home. Unfortunately, outdated kitchens that are cramped and disorganized can affect the feel and overall appeal of your entire home.
Kitchen renov
ation to improve its look and function will be a worthwhile investment for you and your family. In addition, it can increase your home's total value. On average, a major kitchen remodel can offer you a return of around 54 percent.
Of course, you may not know where to start. With this guide and a specialist's help , you will learn a few must-haves your kitchen needs to improve efficiency.
Kitchen renov
ation to improve its look and function will be a worthwhile investment for you and your family. In addition, it can increase your home's total value. On average, a major kitchen remodel can offer you a return of around 54 percent.
Of course, you may not know where to start. With this guide and a specialist's help , you will learn a few must-haves your kitchen needs to improve efficiency.
1. New Appliances
Whether you cook every day or not, your appliances are an important part of your kitchen. From storing food and washing dishes to preparing large dinners for your family and guests, you’ll make a smart choice when you update old appliances with new, larger ones.
If you do cook or bake a lot, consider implementing a set of double ovens into your cabinetry. Double ovens allow you to cook or bake in one while using the other oven for warming purposes. Install the ovens into your cabinetry to allow you to place the stovetop on a section of the counter or on an island, which greatly improves the look of your kitchen.
In addition to double ovens, opt for a larger refrigerator, too. If you tend to entertain more than the average homeowner, a larger refrigerator gives you space for storing platters and trays before and during one of your parties or events.
No matter which appliances you choose, opt for models certified by Energy Star. These energy-efficient appliances can reduce your household's energy use by an estimated 10 to 50 percent depending on the specific models and your family's usage.
If you do cook or bake a lot, consider implementing a set of double ovens into your cabinetry. Double ovens allow you to cook or bake in one while using the other oven for warming purposes. Install the ovens into your cabinetry to allow you to place the stovetop on a section of the counter or on an island, which greatly improves the look of your kitchen.
In addition to double ovens, opt for a larger refrigerator, too. If you tend to entertain more than the average homeowner, a larger refrigerator gives you space for storing platters and trays before and during one of your parties or events.
No matter which appliances you choose, opt for models certified by Energy Star. These energy-efficient appliances can reduce your household's energy use by an estimated 10 to 50 percent depending on the specific models and your family's usage.
2. Custom Storage Solutions
Another way to make your kitchen more efficient is to customize your cabinets, drawers, and pantry to your family's specific needs.
A lazy Susan rotating shelf in one or more cabinet corners of your kitchen will provide space for storing pots and lids in an easily accessible manner. Deeper drawers are also beneficial for storing pots, pans, lids, and food storage container to ensure they stay organized.
Cabinets with built-in trash and recycling bins are ideal as well. Keep your waste containers in the cabinets in this manner to free up actual floor space and make your kitchen seem neat and more open.
Finally, consider divided drawers throughout your kitchen. The dividers allow you to store utensils and cooking tools neatly, so they are always accessible while you are preparing, cooking, and serving food.
Many homeowners feel they do not have enough space for storing food. Therefore, you may want to design a larger pantry into your remodel. Walk-in pantries are not only used for storing canned, boxed, and bagged food. Cookbooks, wines, and even small appliances, such as the toaster, mixer, or waffle maker, can also be stored away in your pantry.
A lazy Susan rotating shelf in one or more cabinet corners of your kitchen will provide space for storing pots and lids in an easily accessible manner. Deeper drawers are also beneficial for storing pots, pans, lids, and food storage container to ensure they stay organized.
Cabinets with built-in trash and recycling bins are ideal as well. Keep your waste containers in the cabinets in this manner to free up actual floor space and make your kitchen seem neat and more open.
Finally, consider divided drawers throughout your kitchen. The dividers allow you to store utensils and cooking tools neatly, so they are always accessible while you are preparing, cooking, and serving food.
Many homeowners feel they do not have enough space for storing food. Therefore, you may want to design a larger pantry into your remodel. Walk-in pantries are not only used for storing canned, boxed, and bagged food. Cookbooks, wines, and even small appliances, such as the toaster, mixer, or waffle maker, can also be stored away in your pantry.
3. Functional Lighting
If you have a kitchen full of windows, you might not find it necessary to add lighting fixtures. If your kitchen lacks natural light, implement new light fixtures during the remodel to improve the appeal, feel, and efficiency of your kitchen.
Work with designers to create a plan that includes overall ambient lighting, task lighting, and accent lights.
Recessed lights throughout the kitchen should provide sufficient lighting for the entire space. Task lighting should be installed over your direct cooking surface, over countertops, and over the sink. Large pendant lights add a decorative touch over your kitchen island or table. You can also install up-lights to the top of your cabinets for more accent lighting.
You can add appeal and value to your kitchen while improving efficiency. To get started creating the kitchen of your dreams, contact Kitchen Expo today.
Work with designers to create a plan that includes overall ambient lighting, task lighting, and accent lights.
Recessed lights throughout the kitchen should provide sufficient lighting for the entire space. Task lighting should be installed over your direct cooking surface, over countertops, and over the sink. Large pendant lights add a decorative touch over your kitchen island or table. You can also install up-lights to the top of your cabinets for more accent lighting.
You can add appeal and value to your kitchen while improving efficiency. To get started creating the kitchen of your dreams, contact Kitchen Expo today.
If you're a wine connoisseur, a wine cooler is a must-have. Whether your collection is large or small, one key to enjoying wine is serving it at its very best. So what's a wine cooler and why do you need one?
Most people are familiar with the idea of a wine cellar, which controls many environmental factors such as humidity, vibration, and temperature. This is a long-term storage solution to age wines. If you want to enjoy the wine right now, though, you generally simply want to cool it to the best temperature and have it on hand for serving.
This is where a wine cooler comes in handy. It's an attractive cabinet that fits in with any decor and keeps your favorite bottles handy. If a wine cooler sounds like something right up your alley, here are four top tips for choosing your own wine cooler.
Don't Put It Just Anywhere
Just because you'll be storing bottles of wine for much shorter periods doesn't mean you shouldn't pay attention to their environment. Avoid placing the wine cooler itself in direct sunlight or in a location that experiences significant changes in temperature. The refrigeration unit will have to work harder to keep the wine comfortable in the sun, so you'll waste money and energy. The wine itself may also suffer from unnecessary heat exposure.
Check the requirements on your wine cooler itself, too. It will likely need some empty space behind and around it to provide adequate ventilation.
Know Your Habits
The right place for your wine cooler depends on how you like to entertain and enjoy your glass of wine. Do you tend to serve wine at dinner? Then place your cooler in the dining room where it can double as a serving counter. Many wine owners also find that in the kitchen, near a wet bar, and near the exit to the outdoor entertainment area are all convenient locations.
What about people with a smaller home? You can enjoy a wine cooler in a lot of different ways without sacrificing a lot of floor space. Underneath the stairs is a good location choice because it's often a location that's naturally cool and dark. You could also choose a cooler cabinet that multitasks, such as one with additional space for storing serving ware or that doubles as a full bar. You could also replace a table or existing cabinet in your home with a wine cooler so you don’t lose any additional space.
Choose the Right Size
How large a wine cooler should you get? This will also depend on your usage and collection size. If you tend to serve a lot of bottles when entertaining, for instance, you may need a larger unit. But couples who only enjoy a glass or two in the evening with dinner may not want to waste energy and space on a large cooler.
Keep in mind that bottles should be stored primarily in the wine cellar and only transferred to the cooler as needed before serving.
Complement It
Finally, use your wine cellar as the centerpiece of your wine presentation area. Oenophiles often have many fun wine accessories like aerators, decanters, wine temperature gauges, and specialty bottle openers or racks. Display and use them with your cooler.
If you're on a budget, consider something as simple as a rolling bar cart placed next to the unit. Have more funds to put into your hobby? Create a wine tasting area with a small bar, stools, and gorgeous tasting sets.
Ready to get a wine cooler for your own home? Start with a beautiful, custom-designed wine cabinet from Kitchen Expo
in La Jolla today. We can help you realize the perfect complement to your beloved wine collection. Contact us for more details.
If your boat is due for a makeover, you need to convey your wants and needs to your design team. Address these five concerns to prioritize the changes made to your yacht.
1. The Ways People Use Your Yacht
Is yachting purely a family affair? If your boating excursions are low-key and informal, upgrades to your yacht can be personal and quirky. Choose cabinets and other furnishings that mirror your character and the fun, irreverent, or indulgent mood you want to share with guests.
If your boat is a charter vessel or used in other commercial endeavors, a less extravagant interior may be more appropriate. Install tasteful interiors that are more universally appropriate. Save luxury additions for areas where guests are present.
For example, choose a utilitarian kitchen for a dinner cruise boat where only the crew enters the galley. A luxury yacht that allows guests to wander through the galley needs upscale cabinets and kitchen appointments to convey the high-end theme.
2. The Opinions Your Crew Hold of Yacht Functionality
If you want to know how to make the kitchen more efficient, ask the cooks (or chefs, as the case may be.) Most food-prep personnel will ask for more open space, so be prepared to order folding and tuck-away countertops. The addition of additional prep space makes it easier for cooks to assemble courses throughout a cruise.
Power and water allocation are also big concerns. You may need an electrical or plumbing upgrade to allow staff to efficiently use appliances and keep the galley spotless. Larger sinks are always appreciated by the ship's designated dishwasher.
3. The Allocation of Space in Your Yacht
Does the current deck plan of your yacht leave something to be desired? Are you looking for more privacy or more leisure space? Consider how you can change the deck layouts to make your yacht more user-friendly.
Some yacht owners are moving their tender docks forward and installing aft galleys. The rear galleys and adjacent aft decks allow for convenient and casual meals while sunbathing, fishing, and socializing. This change opens up the rear-area kitchen and seating spaces to accommodate more guests and activities.
4. The Methods of Storing Consumables
Food ingredients, medicines, and beverages all have specific storage requirements to keep them fresh and safe. If your salad fixings normally wilt or freeze up a day out at sea, invest in cold storage that's optimized for fresh greens and other salad ingredients.
No matter your sailing preferences, choose new refrigerators and freezers that meet your specific needs without compromise. Install these appliances away from diesel engines and other hot spots to lower your energy costs and prolong the life of compressors.
If you have new wine storage installed, have it placed where the wine will move the least. Humidity and movement rapidly age wine, so the wine racks should be situated at a lower level close to the central pivot-point of the boat.
5. The Long-Term Plans for Your Yacht
If you plan to pass the boat on to family or the business, an original, one-of-a-kind makeover is a fun endeavor that also creates part of the charm of the yacht. However, a highly original yacht could be harder to sell.
When you intend to sell the yacht, do some research on the features that buyers want. For example, manufacturers are outfitting new boats with totally sleek kitchens in light, shiny hues. To compete with new yachts, order a similar kitchen with modern features. Your boat will be easier to sell when the galley is upgraded to contemporary standards.
Contact the yacht experts at Kitchen Expo
to schedule your galley and living quarters makeover. Enjoy cruising in the contemporary, regal, or retro vessel of your dreams with our custom yacht cabinetry, lighting, and impeccable attention to detail.
Your bathroom is an important part of your daily routine. A large part of the bathroom is comprised of the cabinetry. While many homeowners spend time choosing kitchen cabinets, the cabinetry in the bathroom is just as important. Here are a few of the elements you should consider as you design cabinetry for your bathroom.
Look at Your Hardwood Options
The foundation of your cabinetry is going to be the wood. Cabinet designers use wood that's durable so it can withstand the rigors of daily use. For the bathroom, the wood should also be dense enough to stand up to the humidity levels. Common woods for construction include maple, cherry, oak, birch, and alder.
Hardwoods come with a Janka hardness rating, which indicates the amount of force it takes to embed a steel ball halfway into a sample of the wood — the higher the Janka rating, the harder the wood. For example, black oak has a Janka hardness rating
of 1,210, while hard maple has a rating of 1,450. Though hard maple's rating indicates it's a little denser, both are suitable for cabinetry.
Consider Exotic Woods
Cabinet fabricators can also utilize exotic hardwoods for cabinetry. The biggest advantage of exotic hardwoods is their unique graining patterns. However, in some cases, they're also exceptionally hard. Cypress, mahogany, walnut, and ebony are examples of exotic hardwoods for cabinetry. Of those, ebony is known for being especially hard, while walnut is on the softer side.
Think About Wood Graining
If you're planning on having the cabinetry finished with an opaque stain, then the graining of the wood is unimportant. However, part of the beauty of natural wood cabinets is the graining. The graining in wood is made up of lines and pores.
With the lines, the graining can range from straight to wavy with interlocking patterning — the more waves and interlocking the grain features, the bolder the appearance. The pores help create some of the texture. The pores can range from fine to coarse.
Choose a Finish Option
If you're choosing a hardwood based on its graining, then you'll want to have it finished with a translucent stain. Translucent stains range in clarity, from totally clear to dark. Naturally, the darker staining obscures more of the graining. However, it also makes the surface appear more uniform.
The opacity of the staining is not your only choice. You can also choose from different finish treatments. For example, old-world kitchens often feature an antiqued finish. Such a finish appears time-worn. On the other end of the spectrum is a glazed finish, which offers a glossy look. Contractors also offer custom finish options such as distressed and highlighted.
Pick the Pane Style
Much of the style of your cabinetry comes from the doors you choose. Shaker panes are the most common style and present a neutral backdrop. However, you can also choose between flat and raised panels. Flat panels also offer a uniform appearance, while raised panels feature an interplay of light and shadow. Flat is ideal for modern bathrooms, while raised is good for traditional décor.
Consider Adding Glass Panes
If you're having a lot of cabinetry installed in your bathroom, then you should consider replacing some of the wood panes with glass. The glass panes open up the long rows of wood doors, creating more of an airy vibe in the bathroom. Naturally, you'll want to carefully consider what you store in the glass paned cabinets.
While clear glass is a common option, you can also choose patterned or frosted glass. These panes help obscure the inside of the cabinetry. Leaded and stained glass panes are beautiful for an old-world or glamorous bathroom.
Select Custom Inserts
Concerning utility, one of the most important parts of your bathroom cabinetry is what's inside. Manufacturers offer a wide range of custom inserts that can make storing toiletries and grooming appliances much easier. Consider the workflow of your bathroom, and think about which storage inserts will help facilitate your grooming routine.
Choose hardwood, finishing, styles, and inserts that best represent the character and use of your bathroom. Visit the showroom at Kitchen Expo
for more ideas for custom bathroom cabinetry.
Construction trends come and go, even in areas as dynamic as the kitchen. In addition to parting ways with things like brushed satin drawer pulls and wood-wrapped, laminate countertops, modern homeowners are interested in creating a space that is just as functional as it is attractive.
Here are three kitchen design trends that are here to stay, and why you should consider them for your upcoming remodel.
1. Mixed Colors and Materials
For years, homeowners were focused on making sure every element in the kitchen tied in perfectly together. Kitchen islands were meticulously stained to match the cabinets, and granite slabs were chosen because of their similar veining patterns. In today's kitchen showrooms more designers are mastering the art of mixing and matching materials — creating incredibly warm and unique spaces.
Two-toned cabinets are a great trend right now, giving homeowners the chance to choose two of their favorite cabinet colors for their kitchen areas. Oftentimes, people decide to go with lighter cabinets for their upper cabinets and darker colors for lower versions, making the space feel interesting while improving its ability to stay clean.
Modern homeowners are also experimenting with mixing different paint colors in their kitchens. Navy, gray, and white are popular in the kitchens of today, while milky chalk paint stains are preferred over the bland wood tones of yesteryear.
Instead of choosing identical stone slabs for countertops, homeowners are also mixing and matching varieties to make the space more interesting. For example, darker counters might be chosen for the perimeter counter space, while the island might be fitted with cream-colored marble.
If you like the idea of mixing and matching materials, work with a designer to ensure the space will blend well. Additionally, choose materials that will wear in a similar way, so that your entire remodel will look good for many years to come.
2. Quartz Countertops
Just a few years ago, granite countertops were the name of the game. Prized for their natural look and wide variety of colors, demand for the product drove the price down and made it the standard for kitchen upgrades. Unfortunately, granite has one very serious downside — porosity.
As a naturally porous stone, granite can soak in things like bacteria and liquids like oil and juice. To prevent counters from becoming hopelessly stained and unsanitary, homeowners needed to have the surface sealed regularly with special products. In contrast, quartz, which is a manufactured product made of resins and aggregates, is a long-lasting and non-porous alternative material that people have fallen in love with.
In addition to being available in many of the same colors and patterns as granite, quartz can also be created in larger slabs, allowing homeowners to avoid unsightly lines during installation.
Before you select a counter material, think carefully about how much effort you are willing to put forth to maintain its appearance. If you can't commit to regularly cleaning and sealing granite, then choose quartz instead.
3. Reclaimed Objects
These days, people are more focused than ever before on protecting our environment, even during remodeling. Instead of heading to the home improvement store and choosing basic builders-grade materials, today's homeowners are adding visual interest to their kitchens by opting for reclaimed objects, like restored lighting and even old refrigerators retrofitted with modern electronics.
Golden geometric pendant lights from the seventies are being added instead of recessed lighting, and kitchen islands are being made with colorful reclaimed wood panels instead of bland wainscoting.
If you are thinking about remodeling your kitchen, then check out your local antique shops and secondhand stores before you talk with your interior designer. Some objects can be refinished to give them new life — lowering your construction costs and making your kitchen truly one-of-a-kind.
Start working on a picturesque kitchen today by contacting Kitchen Expo. With a commitment to using top-of-the-line products and best construction practices, our team is focused on creating a wonderful experience for you and your family.
A kitchen remodel is an excellent way to boost the enjoyment of your home on every level. But if you're not an expert in kitchen design, it can be hard to know where to start. To help get your creative juices flowing, here are the 5 basic steps to design your new kitchen.
Begin with the Triangle
Perhaps the most important part of the kitchen is what's known as the "work triangle." The work triangle comprises the sink, stove, and refrigerator. These are the skeleton of the kitchen where most of the work will be done.
Think about how you will use your triangle of appliances and where to place them. They should be placed close enough that you can move easily between them multiple times, and you may want to avoid putting obstacles in the way of traffic among the three points.
Take Measurements
Once you've started thinking about the placement of the triangle appliances, take the time to measure your kitchen space. Measure the walls, the floor space, spaces between doors, and windows. Be sure to take accurate measurements of anything that will be staying in the kitchen.
While your contractor will be doing official measurements, having your own list makes it easier to sketch your own layout, decide which cabinets will work, and plan for the right size or style of appliances.
Learn Layout Styles
Armed with your measurements, start educating yourself about the basic styles of kitchen layout as well as their pros and cons. These include the following:
- U Shape. This style offers several walls that can hold more cabinetry and a compact design.
- Galley. Modern homeowners may find the galley style kitchen to be more confining, but you can often create a very efficient layout.
- L Shape. If you're one who entertains while cooking, this open layout may be perfect. Large kitchens may become inefficient, though, and the addition of an island can create obstacles.
You can, of course, personalize all thee styles to suit your specific house. But knowing where to begin will make it easier to sort through all the options so you only need to tweak layouts instead of starting from scratch. Explore layout options by making sketches or marking the physical area with masking tape lines.
Create a Budget
Before starting to shop for specific materials, put your budget in writing. You should have an idea what types of layout you'll choose, how large your space is, and what structural changes will need to be made.
Many homeowners like to budget in different categories rather than simply coming up with one large number. Determining a budget for categories like labor and materials helps you avoid going over budget on one item and not having enough money left for other important aspects.
Look at Materials
Looking at specific materials and appliances is among the final steps of kitchen planning. Putting off materials shopping until later is a good way to avoid falling in love with things you can't afford or losing focus on the more important things.
If you have a limited budget, another good way to ensure you use it well is to take the time to write down your priorities for your new kitchen. Having them in black and white ensures that everyone is on the same page and that you've given thought to what you really want and need. Focus on your priorities when it comes to upgrades and higher quality materials. That way, you can compromise on less important things and not feel deprived.
Although planning a kitchen layout can be a little time consuming, it will be well worth the work when you can use your new favorite room. For additional help, call the kitchen remodel experts at Kitchen Expo
today.
Even if you're going to be in your home for a long time to come, there are many reasons why you might want to focus on return on investment (ROI). Any renovation is going to improve the value of your home, but some offer greater returns. Greater returns don't just lead to an easier time selling; they also make it easier to get home equity loans later on. If you're renovating your home soon, you may want to keep these top renovations in mind.
Finishing a Basement
Finishing a basement and turning it into a living space — whether it's an entertainment room, home theater, bar, or game room — is one of the best ways to improve your home's ROI. Finishing a basement adds to the usable square footage of your home, rather than having an area that can only be used for storage. Even better, a finished basement is a great way to customize
your home, as you can build it out to be anything you want it to be.
Remodeling a Kitchen
A kitchen remodel doesn't just improve the convenience and comfort of your kitchen — it also gives you great ROI. Kitchens are one of the first things that many people look at when appraising the value of a home, and that makes sense because they're one of the areas that people will spend the most functional time in.
Redoing a Bathroom
Bathroom remodels pay off more when your bathroom is outdated — but that doesn't mean that even the most current bathroom can't be updated. A bathroom remodel can increase ROI by nearly 200%. Redoing a bathroom can include everything from installing a new shower and tub to simply replacing some old tile.
Bathroom remodels pay off more when your bathroom is outdated — but that doesn't mean that even the most current bathroom can't be updated. A bathroom remodel can increase ROI by nearly 200%. Redoing a bathroom can include everything from installing a new shower and tub to simply replacing some old tile.
Bathrooms can also be upgraded solely for comfort, including walk-in bathtubs or spa-style showers. Some of these additions will improve upon the suitability of your bathroom for handicapped individuals (such as walk-ins), which will also increase the value of your home in many markets.
Rebuilding an Attic
If you want to create some more living space, why not build out the attic? Building an attic bedroom has an ROI similar to refinishing a basement, as it adds additional usable square footage to your home.
If you want to create some more living space, why not build out the attic? Building an attic bedroom has an ROI similar to refinishing a basement, as it adds additional usable square footage to your home.
Of course, not all attics can be remodeled in this way, but those that can be can add an entire additional bedroom, loft space, or office space without having to engage in significant construction. This also gives you the ability to add another room to your home that's just for you.
Building an Office
Building a home office doesn't have the best ROI on this list, but it does have a return at a little over 50%. That's not bad for something that may be necessary to make your life easier (in addition to being a tax deduction all on its own).
Building a home office doesn't have the best ROI on this list, but it does have a return at a little over 50%. That's not bad for something that may be necessary to make your life easier (in addition to being a tax deduction all on its own).
Building a home office can be a significant lifestyle improvement for those who work frequently from home. It can also make your home more desirable to others who need to have either a home office or an entertainment room.
Ultimately, most home remodels are going to improve the value of your property, but it can be advantageous to consider the ones that are going to improve your home value more. As one might expect, kitchen and bathroom remodels tend to be the best. If you want more information — or to get started on designs — contact the experts at Kitchen Expo.
For bibliophiles, having a library right at home is a dream come true. It can be one of the most indulgent, most personal rooms in your house and turn into a real haven for everyone. If you're planning to add a library either to an existing home or a new design, here are four steps to creating the perfect getaway.
Think About Your Style
Everyone enjoys books differently. While some people like to curl up on a sofa in a warm room, for example, others prefer to sit outside and enjoy a breeze and a sunset while feasting on their favorite novel. There's nothing wrong with any reading and relaxation style, so you should think about how to use your own style (or styles) when designing your library.
Ask yourself what you want from your reading experience. Do you want a window? What types of seating or reading stands will you desire? How many other distractions, such as music or movies, do you want in the space? What about an entrance to the outdoors?
Do you want to add to the master suite or choose a location accessible to the whole family? The more you define what you want from the library, the more your contractor can customize it to meet your needs.
Design an Organization System
Before planning how you will lay out the library, it's a good idea to decide how you'll store and organize the materials. Will you group books by author, subject or title? Will there be distinct shelving locations for different family members’ collections? How will you handle oversize books, hardcovers, softcovers and e-readers? Will there be a computer or tablet reading station for digital material?
Deciding how to keep the books will inform how you design shelving, cabinets, and seating. Without an overall plan, you may find that you accidentally break up the sections oddly or that the kids' books end up on a high shelf. And you'll need to know where you'll store any valuable or antique books so that they are carefully protected and away from moisture or windows, for example.
Plan for Changes
It's unlikely that you won't add to your book collection, so don't underestimate how much room your library will need. If it will be in an existing room with lots of privacy, can you expand into surrounding rooms in the future if needed? If you acquire more antique volumes, what additional security or protection can you build in? Can you add more shelving later on?
Think, too, about the future of the book market and trends themselves. What about adding digital products or streaming? And as the kids age, what changes will their tastes call for?
Make Room for Everyone
Most homeowners want others to enjoy their library as well, so don't leave out planning for friends and family. Include enough seating, tables and space for more than one person to use the room at one time.
And if you have little ones, you may want to include some fun activity spots just for them. This could include an art corner, kid-friendly bookshelves low to the ground or junior-sized seating. Depending on how you want to use the space, you could consider adding space for board games or video games and some refreshment storage or even a movie projector.
When designed well, your new library is sure to bring many hours of happiness to all the readers in your family. And the experts at Kitchen Expo
are here to help you plan out just the right space. From custom shelving to perfect lighting layouts, their expertise will bring your library dreams to life.
