2 Overlooked Aspects of Kitchen Design

When it comes to kitchen design, what are the things that tend to stand out more than anything else? Most people would answer that it is the appliances. The reason for this is that the kitchen is a work area, an area where the functionality in most cases will outweigh the aesthetics. That leaves a huge array of items completely overlooked that could potentially have done a lot to work toward the overall look you are going for in your kitchen. The purpose of this article is to briefly outline two of the most unappreciated, yet most important aspects of kitchen design.

Kitchen Doors

Kitchen doors can be an undervalued part of kitchen design that is often simply overlooked because it is not an appliance or other obvious piece of decoration that really stands out. Still, choosing the right kitchen door can not only accentuate the particular design choice you are going for in your kitchen, it can also serve to blend the kitchen in with the rest of your home design. This is of particular important if there is a significant design different between your kitchen and the room beyond.

Kitchen Tiles

Though not nearly overlooked as often as the kitchen doors may be, kitchen tiles serve to provide the background ambience in the kitchen, along with the lighting. Consider a kitchen that has pure black tiling versus a kitchen that has all red tiling or all blue tiling. Each of these kitchens will create a vastly different mood in the person observing them, simply because of their color. Since there are hundreds, if not thousands of colors and designs available, the possibilities are simply endless.

There are others, of course. These are simply two examples of the various aspects of kitchen design that many people overlook when they are choosing a fancy stovetop or a stainless steel refrigerator with a built in ice maker. Whether you decide that spending time looking at kitchen doors or kitchen tiles is worth your time or not, remember that every piece contributes to the whole. When every piece works together, the result can really shine.

Tag : kitchen,kitchen design,kitchen sink,kitchen cabinets

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Tim_R_Goodman

Reasons Why To Switch to Stainless Steel Sinks

As far as being busy goes, the sink is the busiest spot in the kitchen since it plays a huge part in a household's daily life - especially in a restaurant. It is where you prepare the meals, where you brush your teeth, where you wash dishes.

In fact, a house or an establishment cannot be built without a sink. And because the sink rarely takes a break, it is appropriate to have a sink that will last a lifetime or more without constant maintenance.

Because the sink is involved in heavy tasks, you must be sure that your sink is of high quality to withstand the job. It is recommended that you use stainless steel in your kitchen sink. If you are looking for a rust resistant material, then stainless steel sink is the answer. Sadly, only few people know about this. So they continue to use other metal and suffer the consequence of the sink developing cracks, resulting to the need of replacing it within months.

Before buying a new sink, you must be aware of what you need and want. Buying just because other people said so isn't an intelligent decision. You must supply your decision with facts.

So why will you buy a stainless steel sink? In comparison, it is more affordable than copper, brass or cast iron sinks. It is easy to install since this type of sink is lighter than other kinds, allowing you to place it easily wherever you want. The sink number states the thickness of the sink. Stainless steel does not need tarnishing and expensive cleaners to keep them shiny and stain free. That is why it is almost maintenance free. In addition to that, a stainless steel sink cannot be easily stained, dented, cracked or chipped. It can withstand fire and sudden change of temperature received from hot pans and cold water from the faucet. The color of stainless steel is neutral. So it can match any design of your kitchen, from dull to colorful, from plain to luxurious. Also, you can choose which type of sink you prefer, it can be a single or double bowl. You can also pick either a depthless or a deep one. When you say single bowl, it contains only one section for washing and rinsing. However, a double bowl has two, wherein you can use the other to wash and the other to rinse. As aforementioned, stainless steel sink needs minimal maintenance, making it cost-effective. Aside from that, it can be recycled. For your information, Titan Steel-made sink is better than mild steel sink because it is more resistant to corrosion.

Now that you are aware of the reasons why you should buy a stainless steel sink, you must not forget that the price depends on the size, depth, finish and brand of the sink. If you can't afford expensive brands, settle for the not-so-popular ones. As long as it's stainless, you really can't go wrong.

Tag : kitchen,kitchen sinks,kitchen cabinets,stainless steel

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Eliza_Maledevic

Inexpensive Tips For Stylish Kitchen Decor

Is the look of your kitchen getting you down? While there are plenty of inexpensive ways to revitalize your kitchen. You don't necessarily have to replace the flooring, cabinets or countertops to improve the look of your kitchen. Decorating your kitchen can be as simple as displaying some knick knacks and novelties or slapping fresh paint on your walls and cabinets. You may be surprised to learn that you can often achieve impressive results with small changes.

A good place to start out is the walls of your kitchen - is it time for a fresh coat of paint? If so, will you use the same color or explore a new one? Before you make any quick decisions keep in mind that your existing furniture and cabinets need to blend in well with whatever new color you choose - otherwise you'll be committing further time and money to repaint them as well to match.

If you want to spruce up the look of your kitchen without repainting each wall, you can focus on smaller areas and still get impressive results. Try using wallpaper borders in complementary patterns and colors to blend in with your existing decor.

Wall stencils are another great idea that can really help make your kitchen stand out. You can choose a quote, phrase or mantra that is of significance to you and have a custom stencil that you peel out and apply directly to the wall.

Rather than replacing your cabinets entirely, you can often make what appear to be new with some selective attention to the cabinet doors. You can paint the front-facing doors and install new handles and hinges. Either one of these ideas can drastically improve the look of your kitchen with very little investment in time or money.

Then, finish off the appearance of your kitchen, or if only a slight change is wanted, you can look into getting new kitchen curtains and table linens. Altering the colors or fabrics can freshen up your kitchen just enough to update your kitchen without the hit to the wallet.

Try any of these inexpensive tips to improve your kitchen decor and enjoy the benefits of a new-look kitchen without the price tag.

Tag : kitchen,kitchen decor,kitchen cabinets,kitchen sink

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Elaine_Fergison

Different Kitchen Designs - Deciding on the Right Kitchen Design For You

As much as possible, you would want your kitchen to be efficient, functional, and stylish all at the same time. Creating a bespoke kitchen design has now become popular so that one's kitchen stands out and that it caters to the owner's purpose and goal. But, there are things that you must know when building a new kitchen or remodeling your existing kitchen. Besides the furniture that you are going to put in it, the light fixtures, and color, you also have to decide on the layout that you prefer.

To help you with it, let us take a look at some of the basic types of kitchen layouts:

Single Line Kitchen

This is recommended for narrow rooms. This layout will produce an I-shaped kitchen, which results to having longer journey distances as you would have to walk from one end of the room to the other. To solve this, have the sink placed between the refrigerator and the stove. Moreover, place the refrigerator in such a way that the refrigerator door opens away from the sink.

L-Shaped Kitchen

A very popular kitchen layout, L-shaped kitchen allows for a good traffic flow. This type is recommended for a family kitchen or for entertaining guests as table and chairs can be accommodated in the same room. When having this type of layout, a preparation area must separate the sink, stove, and refrigerator.

Double L-Shaped Kitchen

This allows for plenty of cabinet space as well as counter space. It is generally used for large kitchens with two cooks. The problem that may arise with this layout is that it has two or more entering areas; hence, it may cause problems on traffic flow. This problem, however, may be addressed by having two separate working areas on each L of the kitchen.

Galley Kitchen

Because of its efficiency in the use of space, this layout is often used in apartments or houses where there is limited space. This space efficiency is also the reason why this type is preferred by many professional chefs. For smooth work flow, the cabinets and appliances can be placed on opposite walls. But, it must be made sure that the cleaning and cooking areas are on the same side to avoid accidents while hot pans are being moved between the sink and the cooktop.

G-Shaped Kitchen

Providing a fourth wall to use, a G-shaped kitchen is also recommended if you have more than one cook in the house. Moreover, the fourth wall may be utilized for a counter, island, and storage space.

U-Shaped Kitchen

This layout has three walls, allowing short distances around the kitchen and making it an ideal working kitchen. Furthermore, it allows plenty of worktop and storage space.

Island Kitchen

It is another popular layout as it allows you or the cook to entertain and socialize with guests or visitors while preparing. Thus, it is the ideal layout if you plan to entertain.

Getting the kitchen that you desire indeed requires some thinking and sound decision making. You just cannot say, hey I want this and poof there goes your desired kitchen. It is important that you equip yourself with the basic knowledge in kitchen design, just like the basic layouts. The internet, for example, is a powerful source of information. Make some research, ask questions, and set a clear picture on your mind what you really want, although it may slightly be altered as you go on with educating yourself about the basics in kitchen design. So get those hands and mind working, squeeze those creative juices, and make your dream kitchen a work in progress.

Tag : kitchen,kitchen design,kitchen cabinets,kitchen sink

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jo_Alelsto

Building Bespoke Kitchens By Yourself Will Be A Rewarding Experience

Thinking of home improvement? Not really a good idea if you're tight on cash, but don't let this dampen your spirits because it can still be done. Yes, you heard it right! A bespoke kitchen is very possible even on an ostensibly unyielding budget. If it can be done then the question is how you do it. How will you turn your rundown kitchen into the most glamorous, okay maybe not glamorous but in the least, shipshape and presentable kitchen? Contracting a professional is not exactly part of the equation, going back to the fact that you are on a tight budget. Hence, you are left with one choice but to do it yourself.

Renovating, repainting, and re-plastering the kitchen may seem like a monstrous job at first but once you have all the information you need as well as the materials, starting your very own home improvement may not be as difficult and complicated as you have first made it out to be. Maybe you're still not really into the idea of you tearing down the whole kitchen and then doing everything all by your lonesome self. It's not an easy decision but it's one which will bring you enduring satisfaction.

Doing it all alone may not be a really good idea since there are tasks which will need an extra pair of hands so you can always enlist the help of your friends or even the neighbor up front. Doing the kitchen on your own can cut back on the expenses, provided that you are quite competent at the various jobs involved as well as own the right tools for these tasks. If you are not sure of your ability with the hammer then it will be wise to work alongside with someone who is. For the plumbing and electricity, you better ask for professional help since these are sensitive tasks.

So if you have the skills to do your own renovating in the kitchen, then it's time to bring to life your dream of a Victorian kitchen. But since you are not really a professional, you have to spend some time researching for the right materials such as the paints, flooring, wallpapers, cabinets, and other details as well. Victorian architecture is inspired by the era during reign of Queen Victoria, from 1837 to 1901 and it is known for its elaborate designs and sophisticated styles. Victorian kitchens are known for their practicality but still they exude a unique charm which many find especially pleasant. To create the same look, you can furnish your new kitchen with pine or oak finishes. Floors are made from tiles, marble, or hardwood and are oftentimes covered with rugs. Drapes and curtains are usually made from lace, netting, muslin, velvet or brocade.

To have a painted kitchen with the Victorian touch, your choice of colors is wide range but there are few tips that you have to put in mind to really create the Victorian ambiance. Walls are generally painted in a lighter shade than the floors. The Victorian era was marked by the manufacture of aniline dyes which gave forth to brighter colors. And when painting your kitchen remember to highlight the best features of the kitchen.

Doing your own kitchen renovation is indeed a challenge not only physically but also a test of just how creative you are. Do you have the eye for detail? You may even have the hidden aptitude for interior design. Doing things yourself allows you to learn on your own as well as lets you discover things about your personality. In the end, you'll find greater fulfillment doing the process itself rather than seeing the result of your efforts.

Tag : kitchen,kitchen table,kitchen island,kitchen cabinets

Article Directory Source: http://www.articlerich.com/profile/joalesto/40980

Kitchen Counter Stools For Sipping Saki Or Sucking Smoothies

Your kitchen counter stool with a Japanese minimalism theme can double for sucking on those succulent morning fruit smoothies or sipping some teeny cups of Saki in the evening if you choose the bar set, bar chairs or stools that make the look come together.

You can go for the wooden stool or some backless counter stools if you want a very natural Zen style or choose some white vinyl swivel counter stools or a chrome counter height bar stool if you're after clean lines with a "soft green bamboo" feeling using more contemporary counter stools.

Here are some suggestions for a furniture bar stool that will go with these themes.

Zen Backless Counter Stools:

1. Xian Bar Stool - This is a modified Chinese classic, made from elm wood and has a rush seat. Choose your color: Java or Natural with a black stain finish.

2. Wabi Sabi Bench - One of the funkiest Zen theme seating ideas.

3. Ox Stool - With thick legs and looks like an Ox as its name suggests. Not delicate but very natural.

4. Have a look for yourself at Gingko Furniture, a company that specializes in Oriental themes using imperial palaces for stool inspiration. Please keep in mind that since each of the Zen style counter bar stools are handmade and follow the natural wood grain, there are no two pieces that are identical. However, if you go with the Gingko saddle seat counter stool style, rest assured that each stool has been finished using a 9-step process, which includes hand-rubbing each piece with lacquer.

Minimalistic Contemporary Counter Stools

5. Johnston Casuals Nova Adjustable Swivel Bar stool - metal back, swivel seat, adjustable height and all hand-made.

The entire collection of Johnston Casuals is minimalist and sleek contemporary in nature. They are a great choice for an inexpensive alternative to Japanese designer bar stools.

6. Eurostyle Fabia Adjustable Leatherette Seat Swivel Bar Stool - Chrome steel base and foot rest with a swivel leatherette seat and gas lift. (Buy online at: morebarstools.com/) Eurostyle has a kitchen counter bar stool or a counter height swivel bar stool that will suit your needs when searching for any ultra modern counter stools.

Tag : kitchen,kitchen counter,kitchen table,kitchen sink,kitchen decor

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Alex_Gapper

Rooster Kitchen Decor - Something to Crow About

Rooster kitchen décor can help give you a kitchen to crow about. One hundred years ago, a kitchen was a room to be hid at the back of the house or in the basement. No self respecting hostess would have ever allowed her guests to see her kitchen.

That has all changed now, as the kitchen first became the hub of family activity and eventually was opened to friends for casual entertaining and shared cooking dinner parties. Open floor plans encouraged this trend, and now your friends would think it odd if you did not invite them into the kitchen. But what are you to do if you don't like the décor of your kitchen?

In most cases, a few decorative changes and some strategically placed practical, yet beautiful items can make a remarkable difference. Begin by examining your pallet - the color of the walls, the cupboards, the window coverings. Are you dealing with brights against a white background or more beiges and neutrals? There are sure to be items of rooster kitchen décor that will match with either. Now look for places that seem barren, or void of interest - these are the places you are going to perk up with roosters.

If your background is white, consider adding rooster touches in bright primary colors. Wall clocks, statues, serving trays, cutting boards, even cookie jars come in vibrant colors that can perk up a dull white kitchen and give it some pizzazz. If your base pallet is a little more neutral you can look for items in soft country colors. Canvas art prints, a vintage wrought iron clock, serving trays, memo boards and decorative plates all come in muted, gentle colors to bring out the warmth of a neutral color scheme. The key is to build on the room you already have. Just a few touches of rooster kitchen decor will make a world of difference.

Your kitchen should be a family gathering place, a warm room for welcoming friends and most of all a room you will feel proud to show off. Whether you want a room full of vibrant colors or one that is warm and homey you will be able to find roosters to match the mood. Rooster kitchen décor not only brings light and whimsy to your kitchen, but it can help give you that room worth crowing about.

Tag : kitchen,kitchen cabinets,kitchen decor

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=David_B_Miller

All About Kitchen Utensils and How to Get the Most Out of Using Them

Do you love cooking all the time? Are you satisfied with what you prepare everyday with the use of your old kitchen utensils? You may look into various kitchen cookware and utensils that may complement your kitchen needs. You don't have to stick with what you already have since there are a lot of trendy designs and high quality utensils available in the market today, you should start upgrading.

You may find a lot of utensils for your kitchen available in the market today, and most of them have different purposes that is innovative enough to meet your functional needs in the kitchen. Most of them are created to perform not just one task in the kitchen but several ones to make your kitchen activities more lighter and convenient for you.

These kitchen utensils are essential for helping your prepare delectable and appealing food that your audience will surely adore. At the same time, your cooking activity would be more enjoyable because you have all the help you need. Various utensils include multi-purpose slicers, cutlery, measuring cups and spoons, mixers, funnels, and other stuff that you can make use of in the kitchen.

Now, to make sure that you will be able to maximize the use these utensils, you have to make sure that when you purchase new ones, they are made from high grade materials such as aluminum, copper and stainless steel. This would prevent your kitchen utensils from rusting, and you will be able to use them for a longer period of time. Do not just settle for what is cheap without checking if the quality of the materials being used for your utensils are of high quality. Using utensils made from low grade materials may even be detrimental to ones health.

After purchasing new utensils that you will be using for your kitchen, you should know where to properly keep them. If you are not using them, you have to make sure that you maintain them properly, this would allow you to make use of your kitchen utensils in the future, so you can prepare good food for your audience.

Tag : kitchen,kitchen cabinets,kitchen utensils,kitchen sink,kitchen design

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Cindy_Hansen

Kitchen Remodeling - Think Before You Act

Many people, without thinking, want to initiate the process of kitchen improvements primarily to achieve a more comfortable and welcoming home. Convenience, style and elegance are the most important objectives in any kitchen remodeling endeavor. A trip to your local library's home improvement section can be worth a million dollars. It will provide an opportunity for you to think before you act. In addition, most home improvement magazines will, without a doubt, prove to be an invaluable source of information for you to consider before starting your own home improvement project.

A kitchen home improvement project can easily become overwhelming to an inexperienced homeowner who has not taken the time to think before he acts. It is difficult to envision everything that might be affected by changing one simple element in your kitchen. For example, you may decide to simply repaint your walls. That's it! Project finished. Or is it? Now the color of the floor tiles clashes with the color of the walls. Ok, we will go for a new floor. Whoops, we damaged the cabinets while installing the new floor. And on and on and on we go. In other words, a homeowner who is embarking on a kitchen improvement venture MUST first participate in a great deal of investigative planning prior to the start of construction. Or, he might have to face the possibility of being thoroughly disappointed with the outcome of his kitchen improvement venture.

Therefore, the investigative time you devote to your kitchen improvement project can definitely be correlated to the degree of your satisfaction with the end results that you were able to obtain. No one wants to invest a huge amount of money, time and effort only to be disappointed with the outcome. It is always better to think before you act.

Tag : kitchen,kitchen cabinets,kitchen remodeling,kitchen design

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jonathan_R_Richards

Shopping For a New Kitchen Sink - Single, Double Or Triple Bowl?

One of the decisions you will encounter when shopping for a new kitchen sink is the number of bowls you prefer. Double bowls are most commonly found in homes today, but single and triple bowl sinks have also become common for use in new homes and kitchen renovations. Some factors to think about are the size of your sink base (the space where the sink will be installed), how you use your kitchen and how you wash dishes. Here we take a look at a few considerations for deciding among a single, double or triple bowl.

Single Bowl Sinks
The main advantage of a single bowl is having one large basin in which to work. Single bowls are helpful for tasks like washing large items such as pots and buckets. They also make sense when the sink base is relatively small, and functional space within the sink needs to be optimized. Single bowl sinks are common options for areas that have limited purposes, such as islands or wet bars.

Double Bowl Sinks
Double bowl sinks are the most common in kitchens today. The primary advantage of a double bowl is the ability to use each side of the sink for different tasks at the same time. Washing dishes becomes more convenient when one basin can be filled with water and the other can be used for rinsing. A division between two bowls is also helpful for keeping the garbage disposal available while dishes are placed in the opposite side. A drawback of a double bowl is that compared to a single bowl of the same size, a double bowl sink has less capacity to wash large pots and pans.

Triple Bowl Sinks
Triple bowl models usually consist of two larger sink basins with a smaller one in the middle or to the side for the garbage disposal. This configuration keeps the garbage disposal available, even if both sink wells are occupied. Typically triple bowls are best suited for areas with large sink bases, and provide the ability for more than one person to stand and comfortably work at the sink.

The most important consideration when shopping for a kitchen sink is how you use your kitchen. Think about your past experience with sinks of different types as well as what your preferences are when washing dishes.

Tag : kitchen,kitchen sink,kitchen island,kitchen decor

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=David_Ems

5 Best Money-Saving Kitchen Tips

Nowadays, every possible way to save money should be done, especially now that our economy's in crisis. When it comes to our major needs such as food, you may think that that's inappropriate, and that sacrificing our food intake in exchange for saving some bucks is definitely wrong. But the word "sacrifice" here is a little exaggerated and is misused in this case. If only we knew how to be more organized with a little planning involved in our kitchen, you'll be surprise how much money you can save. And we're not going to sacrifice any nutrients and vitamins that we intake nor the quality of taste of our meals, we will even come up with more innovative yet cheaper kitchen ideas which will surely save us a lot.

1. Don't throw away leftover foods.

Don't just throw your leftover meal on the garbage. Instead, put them on the fridge and save them for later. Be sure to use a clean container to avoid spoiling your meal. You can reheat it later on or even make some experiments on it to invent a new dish. With that, you are able to save both time and money, in terms of not buying anymore new ingredients and not preparing and cooking the food from scratch.

2. Pack your own lunch. Instead of buying your lunch from the office cafeteria or fast food chains, just prepare your own sandwich or cook your own rice and viand. Not only you can save a few bucks, you are also assured that what you are eating is safe without any preservatives added on it. You can also bring your own fresh juice which you prepared personally or your own tumbler with water, instead of buying artificially flavored juice drinks, soft drinks, or bottled water.

3. Buy only the kitchen gadgets that you need. Not everything that is offered to you will be useful in your kitchen. So think many times before purchasing your kitchen appliance. If you do not drink coffee at all, then buying a coffee maker will be absurd. In case you really need a particular appliance, make sure that it is of top quality, so you'll know you can use it for a long period of time.

4. Invest on plastic containers, microwavables, and zip lock containers. This has many advantages for you. First, you can save a lot of space on your fridge by using zip lock plastic containers in storing your meats and poultry instead of using bulkier containers. Using these sets of plastic containers will also keep your kitchen, dining, and even fridge well-organized and clean all the time, and with that, you can easily observe which stock you still have and which needs to be bought already.

5. Buy only what you need from the market. Before going to the grocery store, prepare a list of everything you need, and buy only those and as much as possible, avoided any unnecessary picks once you got there. Buy only the necessities, and after you have completed what's indicated in the list, and still there is a budget, then that's the time you can buy some extras. What's most important is you know how to prioritize and you know the basic food needs that you must have for your family.

Sure those are just few of the thousand ideas that you might think about in order to save money. Kitchen is one of the most special places inside our homes, where our basic life requirement such as food is prepared. These money-saving kitchen tips are created and given to you not to make our meals suffer, but in fact, to make us more innovative and imaginative in keeping our meals not only healthier and safer, but most importantly delicious as always.

Tag : kitchen,saving kitchen,kitchen ideas,kitchen table

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Audri_Whites

How to Paint Kitchen Cabinets - Some Tips to Help You on Your Way

Designing your kitchen can be a very exciting thing to do for you and your family. You can do quite a lot of things to make it really look good. It is important that the kitchen looks great because it is where you and your family can bond together. It is also where the common thing that you share, which is the food, is prepared so it has to be very comfortable to inspire whoever is assigned to cook.

You start designing your kitchen if you are going to build from scratch by carefully measuring your space. This will help you decide how big or how small the tables and counter will be.

Once you have taken the measurements of the room and chosen your appliances and furniture, do your layout. Try different arrangements so you can see which arrangement will allow you to maximize space. You need this so you do not feel too restricted whenever you are using the kitchen.

Then decide on the theme or the color scheme. Decide whether you would opt for a light colored kitchen or a brightly colored one. If you have a small room, light colors will make it appear bigger.

After all these planning, you can already start with your work. Moving around furniture and appliances is not very difficult so you will definitely be done with it in no time. But the painting part is a little tricky especially with painting the cabinets. You are probably already asking the question 'how to paint kitchen cabinets' now. To guide you in this area there are how-to-paint-kitchen-cabinets available on the Internet or in home improvement magazines. Here is an example.

A Step-by-Step How-to-Paint-Kitchen-Cabinets Guide

1. Clean the cabinet. Remove everything from large items to seemingly small dirt and grime.
2. Sand the cabinet. Use fine sandpaper to rub all surfaces. A sanded surface will allow the primer to hold on to the surface.
3. Apply the primer. Do not go at once into applying the paint because if you do this it will likely peel off easily. Use primer, as they hold on to surfaces better than paint.
4. Apply the paint. Do not apply thick coats at once. Apply a thin coat first using brush. Then just brush on additional coats later.

These tips on How-to-Paint-Kitchen-Cabinets are easy to follow so you should be well on your way into having a beautiful kitchen for you and your family.

Tag : kitchen,kitchen cabinets,kitchen design,kitchen sink

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Elija_James

Most Popular Sink - The Superior Quality Belfast Sink

The first in this series of 10 articles - Number One Sink - The Superior Quality Belfast Sink

The Superior Quality Belfast Sink is the top selling ceramic sink. This style of traditional Belfast sink has gained hugely in popularity over the past few years, and suits every kind of kitchen style, from traditional farmhouse to classic Shaker and even sleek contemporary schemes. Unfortunately for the consumer, the soaring interest in this vintage style sink has resulted in an influx of inferior quality products on the market that might seem good value but will never be as hard wearing as a quality product. With Belfast sinks, it really does hold true that you get what you pay for. The Superior Quality Belfast Sink is made from the finest quality ceramic to ensure long-lasting results and a kitchen sink that will last a lifetime. The reason this sink stands out from the crowd is because it's manufactured from superior fireclay as opposed to the standard ball clay. Using fireclay ensures the sink will be incredibly hard wearing with a beautiful finish that will stand the test of time.

People often wonder what the difference is between a Belfast sink and a Butler sink. Originally, when they first came into being in the late 17th century, both sinks were designed to go in the butler's pantry, but the models made in Belfast all had a Weir Overflow, while those manufactured in London didn't. It's always useful for the customer researching this style of classic sink to bear this in mind to avoid confusion. The Superior Quality Belfast Sink, as its name would suggest, has a Weir overflow.

This single bowl Belfast sink has the mark of quality with the manufacturer's logo embossed on the side wall of the sink, which adds to its vintage look. The ceramic sink will accommodate a 60mm basket strainer waste and can be fitted into a standard 600mm kitchen unit for a look that's perfectly in keeping with traditional country kitchens.

Although traditional fireclay sinks are very durable and easy to maintain, you can keep your Belfast sink looking in tip top condition by following a few simple guidelines. Never put a plastic washing up bowl in the sink as the dirt that accumulates on the base of the bowl can scratch the ceramic sink. Be gentle when placing pots and pans in the sink.

Being heavy handed will not only damage a ceramic sink but will result in pans becoming dented, too. Keep your vintage style sink in premium condition by cleaning with a non-abrasive cleaner such as washing up liquid, which should eliminate everyday stains like coffee and wine. For tougher stains, like the thin grey lines from aluminium saucepans, the sink manufacturers recommend the use of a specialist cleaning product like Astonish, which is especially formulated for fireclay ceramic sinks and is available to order from sinks.co.uk.

Fitting this classic Belfast sink is a straightforward process as it comes supplied with a longbolt and metal and polypropylene washers to ensure a tight fit on the waste. The Superior Quality Belfast Sink with Weir Overflow measures 595 x 455 x 255mm.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Vince_Samios

A Successful Kitchen Remodel - It's All in the Bones

If you've ever shopped for antique furniture or an old home, you've probably been asked the question, Does it have "good bones"? This expression is similar to the age-old adage "Don't judge a book by its cover." What it means is that if the foundation of a structure is good to start with, you can easily spiff it up to its original brilliance so that it lasts a lifetime. But like all good things, you must start with a solid core. The same can be said of your kitchen when you're tackling a remodel, which was the premise behind a recent "Chicago Tribune" article titled, "Nate's Approach: Build good bones." The Nate of which the article speaks? None other than Oprah regular, interior designer Nate Berkus.

Subtitled "How to design a timeless, classic kitchen," the story offered an ingredient list and a few style pointers for a kitchen remodel that never goes out of style. Before diving into Berkus's suggestions, however, the article pointed to "Remodeling" magazine's annual "Cost vs. Value Report," to pinpoint the price of a major kitchen remodel in 2008-2009 at a whopping $56,661. Faced with a price tag like that, you're going to want to make sure your kitchen remodeling efforts are ones that will endure the test of time.

"Ideally, it [your kitchen remodel] should look as sharp and attractive in a couple decades as it does the day the renovation crew clocks out," the article stresses. But how do your accomplish this formidable feat? Here is Berkus's main piece of advice: From the get-go, give your kitchen "beautiful bone structure."

Short of ripping your home apart and starting new or adding on, there are parts of your house that are not going to change. "The entire Berkus team consider flooring and other unchanging materials "the bones" of a house, and they consider it their job to build bones that are timeless."

In Berkus's opinion, what do timeless bones consist of?
1. White or red oak flooring for its sturdiness and ability to age gracefully.
2. Marble on the countertops
3. Shaker-style cabinetry, which has avoided trends and managed to endure almost forever while still remaining classic
4. Glassed-in upper cabinets, "which bring a lighter quality to the room"
5. A tiled backsplash
6. White and gray paint
7. Polished nickel hardware
8. Stainless appliances

"With these [elements] as the foundation, Berkus and his team contend, homeowners can shake things up down the road by manipulating less permanent details, such as chair cushions, window treatments and accessories," the article concludes.

Now the challenge remains in finding and bringing all of these elements together into a kitchen remodel that will never go out of style. An online kitchen supercenter can provide you with kitchen remodeling ideas and links to manufacturers for Armstrong hardwood flooring, DuPont countertops, KraftMaid cabinetry, Florida Tile, Behr premium paint, Liberty Hardware and GE appliances all in one convenient place. By browsing its showcase of designs, tips and insight, you can plan your goals, measure your space properly, plan your storage and manage your overall remodel.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Carmen_Fontana

How to Pick the Right Stainless Steel Kitchen Sink

A stainless steel kitchen sink should be the ultimate accessory of any kitchen. But since all stainless steel sinks come in different sizes and styles, selecting the right one may become a daunting task.

Before you window-shop for your next stainless steel sink, make sure that you have the correct dimensions of your counter top. As a rule of thumb, single basin sinks look better in smaller kitchens and for larger kitchens double-bowls or even triple-bowls are ideal.

If you have a standard size kitchen, it is very likely that you are using a double-basing sink, which fits perfectly in cabinets that are 36 inches long. If your next remodeling project does not include the change of these cabinets, it is best that you pick your new stainless steel kitchen sink with the same dimensions.

If you are rebuilding your kitchen and want to add a separate island as working area or even a dish washer, you can opt for a smaller single-bowl stainless steel kitchen sink, as these are more practical and take up much less space than traditional ones.

Keep in mind that though your next kitchen sink is for practical uses such as washing your dishes and preparing foods, a sink will add a stylish accent that no other item in the kitchen will. So, make sure that your current or future accessories match the look of your new kitchen sink, which may come as brushed metal or as a polished look.

Though the traditional stainless steel sinks come in these two styles, many manufacturers also offer other finishes, such as antique, copper, hammered, weathered, among others. To pick the right one it is recommended that you have an idea of the color and style of your cabinets and other accessories, kitchenware, appliances, furniture and even the color of your kitchen walls.

One major reason people choose stainless kitchen sinks is for their durability, low maintenance and low price. And some new styles of stainless steel sinks are designed with technological properties such as an undercoating that muffles sound. If you will be handling many heavy objects such as cast iron pots and pans, make sure that you ask about the strength of the material of your next kitchen sink. As a rule of thumb, a stainless steel kitchen sink made with a lower gauge will be sturdier and quieter.

High-end stainless steel kitchen sinks are made of 18 to 19 gauge.

If you are looking to entertain your relatives and friends, pick a kitchen sink that will offer a wow factor and become the conversation piece of you kitchen; a polished one may do the trick.

If you cook frequently, select a stainless steel kitchen sink with double-basins, as it will allow for more working space to cook efficiently and even hold foods as you cook them. You can actually speed up the cooking process by doing the dishes on one side as you use the other for your cooking needs.

Always ask for the opinion of your vendor before selecting the right kitchen sink, and bring photos of your kitchen or samples of the material of your counter tops to match with ease.

We are a group of stainless steel kitchen sinks experts, obsessed with this very important tool in our homes.

Everyday you will find the latest information on the best models of kitchen sinks available in the market and we will make recommendations of the best stainless steel kitchen sink for your home or your next remodeling project.

You will also learn about discounts, coupons and promotions on kitchen sinks and accessories.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ruslan_R.

Designing a Luxury Kitchen - Top Five Suggestions

The internet is full of articles and sites that are crafted by people claiming to represent the luxury kitchen market. However, "luxury" is an over-used word these days. Now that "luxury to the masses" is a common marketing concept in everything from handbags to kitchen tile, it has become difficult to wade through the plethora of information to find what the true luxury consumer is really looking for....to be set apart from the mass market. As a kitchen designer for a high-end British company, I seldom engage in projects that cost less than $100,000 (often the cabinetry alone surpasses that amount). Therefore I consider myself to be on the front lines of engagement with the real luxury consumer. If you are building, remodeling, or designing a luxury kitchen, (or perhaps you just want to emulate one), then consider these suggestions.

1. Understand the difference between a framed cabinet with an inset door and a cabinet with an overlay door. A framed cabinet with an inset door is considered to be the higher-end option while cabinetry with overlay doors are the more common type seen on the market today. Many of my clients are not familiar with this difference when they visit my studio and if you are unfamiliar as well, I encourage you to view cabinetry from both categories in person. It is a little bit difficult to visualize, but essentially a framed cabinet with an inset door is a cabinet box with a stationary frame mounted to the front of this box. The cabinet door then sits inside (flush) the frame. Traditional English cabinetry was bench made in this manner and it still holds appeal today. An overlay cabinet can have a frame or be frameless, but regardless, the door overlaps the frame or box. A frameless cabinet with overlay doors can be very desirable in a contemporary kitchen where clean, smooth lines are desired. However, in terms of traditional cabinetry, this is seen as an inexpensive way to produce a lot of cabinets. A framed cabinet with an inset door is a lot more work to manufacture and requires a great deal more craftsmanship to get everything properly aligned in its aperture. If your home value is over $1.5 Million, you really should be purchasing framed cabinetry with inset doors. There is simply a perceived quality associated with it.

2. Spend your money on high-end refrigeration. Most of my clients still opt to conceal their refrigerators behind custom cabinetry panels. However, even if you want the professional look of stainless steel, I would encourage you not to skimp on your refrigerator. A few years ago, Sub ZeroMiele and Thermador. While not all of my projects utilize a fully integrated refrigerator, the vast majority of them do. Luxury kitchens frequently feature a pair of refrigerators that are paneled and trimmed out to look like an armoire or beautiful piece of furniture. In fact, this can be your kitchen's best focal point if done well. had a firm corner on the market for fully integrated refrigeration. By "full integration", I mean that the refrigerator can be designed to sit flush with the cabinetry (24" deep) without the need for a stainless steel grate above it, and without an exposed stainless steel frame. Now, however, there are several more manufacturers offering this feature, including

3. Design a space to conceal all of your counter top appliances, such as coffee makers, toasters, blenders, etc. Most high-end kitchens that are well designed allow the homeowner the luxury of having "uncluttered" counter tops. After all, aesthetics are a big part of what you're paying for. Sometimes this can be a large walk-in pantry with built-in cabinetry. Alternatively, I have often employed a method of creating a tall larder cabinet in close proximity to the sink and refrigerator. This larder cabinet, complete with pocket doors, can have an internal counter top with outlets affixed to the back of the cabinet for plugging in an assortment of small appliances ranging from the microwave to the stand-mixer. The idea here is that everything is easily accessible and already plugged in. No luxury kitchen should require the homeowner to pull out a heavy appliance from a base cabinet.

4. Consider using a mixture of counter top materials. In large luxury kitchens today, a single marble or granite material on all counter surfaces can look quite cold. Perhaps it is because these large kitchens simply have so many square feet of counter top material. Regardless, this is a careful line to walk because using too many different materials can quickly look like a trend. To be easy on the eye, consider using your stone of choice around the perimeter counter tops and then opt for a wood top on the island. This breaks up the coldness factor of stone while not conflicting with the pattern of your marble, limestone, or granite.

5. Don't put a stainless steel panel on your dishwasher. This is really just a pet peeve of mine. Personally, I don't think the dishwasher is an attractive appliance. Therefore there is no added value in putting a stainless steel panel on it - even if all of your other appliances are stainless steel. Placing a stainless steel door on your dishwasher just breaks up the visual line of the beautiful cabinetry on which you are splurging. I strongly encourage you to consider a fully integrated dishwasher model. Miele, Bosch, and Asko all currently offer excellent fully integrated models. Again, the term "fully integrated" means that the entire dishwasher front (including the controls) are concealed behind a cabinetry panel. If done properly, you will not be able to distinguish between your dishwashers and any of the adjacent cabinetry.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Heather_Hungeling

Nkba Florida Experts Can Transform Your Kitchen

A beautiful kitchen is every woman's dream. After all that's the section of the house where you spend most of your time! But when it comes to designing or remodeling your dream kitchen it could be a herculean task unlike designing your bedroom, living room or dining area.

NKBA Florida professionals are the ones who can take the role play of an atlas and shoulder this important task to make it simple and easy for you.

The kitchen is not just about creating a good looking interior with lots of color and decor but it is also about practicality and functionality. The cabinets, stove and chimney, tap, sink, wash basin, oven, fridge, utensils, storage space it could all get so complicated that a simple a 'Do It Yourself Project' could overwhelm any average homemaker.

NKBA Florida are the ones who have been trained to take precise measurements, use modern techniques, recommend perfect materials and plan a functional and cost-efficient space that would exclusively reflect your personal taste and lifestyle.

Undoubtedly, the gold standard in the kitchen and bath industry, the National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA) Certification intends to simplify your search for true professionals to guide you. Looking for experts in your area with a NKBA Membership will guarantee a focused expertise and certainly add lot of value to your kitchen or bath design thereby ensuring quality service.

Many NKBA Florida professionals are kitchen or bath designers. The reason why you should opt NKBA certified professionals is that you can be assured that they are proficient and well qualified with good amount of experience. A Certified Master Kitchen & Bath Designer (CMKBD), Associate Kitchen & Bath Designer (AKBD), Certified Kitchen Designer (CKD) and Certified Bathroom Designer (CBD) are a few certified professionals from NKBA on whom you can rely.

Here are some tips on how to go about choosing the right NKBA Florida professional to handle your construction or remodeling project:

Research is the Key: It is highly recommended that you do your own research before you finalize whom you would assign your pet project. It is always good to select several designers or dealers in your neighborhood, schedule meetings, and exchange ideas with them. Check their qualifications and take a look at their projects they have handled before or see their portfolio.

Think Out Of The Box: Always look experts who think out of the box. Why settle for less when you are paying for expertise. Look for non-conventional designers who love to experiment and offer innovative and interesting designs. They should be able to offer you a wide range of styles. True craftsmanship lies in giving you lots of options. They should be able to offer more than one look so that you get something unique.

Customer Friendly: It could take months for your project to complete. You would definitely want to be in good company so that's it's a pleasant experience for you.

Go ahead and choose a certified NKBA professional to be assured of a complete premium service that suits both your style and budget.

By: Andrew Stratton

Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com

Apple and Rooster Kitchen Curtains Are Full of Warmth

Apple kitchen curtains and rooster kitchen curtains are two styles that are very popular. They make a kitchen seem that much more homey. These two styles originated a long time ago and are associated with the quiet and peaceful countryside life.

Apples have always been a great part of early American culture and this is also true today. Apples pies and Apple juice are great examples of tradition and culture. People were so fond of their apple harvest that they began to sew pictures of apples on their curtain fabrics.

The same is also true for the fondness of the rooster which actually symbolizes a lot of things and among them a new day to prosper. Wives of farmers spent some of their free time decorating their kitchen windows with curtains that had a roosters on them. Many also sewed similar style tablecloths to match the curtains.

This tradition exists today and it's not necessary that you live on a farm to enjoy these two lovely styles. They are first and foremost about family life and they would certainly add warmth to any kitchen in any home.

Certainly they are not for everyone an a young urban professional might think they are old fashioned. And that's actually true but old fashion never goes out of style. What was a classic yesterday remains a classic today and dare I say that apple and rooster styled kitchen curtains are indeed very classic.

If you want to add a little warmth to your kitchen then look into these designs. They have simple family life written all over them.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Michelle_Lawrence

Kitchen Units - How to Spend Less on Them

Do not make the mistake of thinking that budgeting is just for people on a "tight budget." Yes, if you have a tight income you should benefit from a budget and steer away from debt. Budgeting; however, is not just valuable for individuals with a shortage of resources; it's also of value to anyone that wants to use their money wisely; that's rich, or poor (believe me, even Donald Trump budgets).

Here are a few useful tips to help you buy any kitchen furniture at a lower price:

Showroom furniture
The prices of furniture that were displayed in a show room for viewing are substantially cut down compared to the same furniture that is in stock.

Used furniture
Used furniture costs less than brand new furniture. Most of them are actually still "new" and used only briefly. If you know a place that sells good, used furniture, then go for it.

Garage sale
Garage sales usually have great unique furniture to sell, and at a much cheaper price. Not only are the prices normally lower, but you also have a chance to bargain with the owners to sell you something for less.

Flea markets
Flea markets are usually in North America opened for individuals that want to make money from selling their used items, or make a business from selling different products at a lower price. It's like a garage sale, only it's in a bigger area where you go and see hundreds of garage sales in one place. As with garage sales, remember to use your bargaining skills to get the most for your money.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kanila_Rhyne

Discover the Biggest Secret to Kitchen Decor

Did you know that one of the biggest secrets to creating the right kitchen décor is in choosing the theme that fits you best. Far too often many people make the mistake of choosing a décor for their kitchen, based on finding items that looked or pretty to them at the time. The real key to a successful job, though, is in having a well thought out theme for your project.

Helpful suggestions and tips

This article can offer you some helpful suggestions in choosing a theme, but the bottom line is in choosing something that makes you feel good or productive or what ever mood you're trying to set for a certain look and feel. It may not take too many changes such as the color or just a couple of the items to change the entire look and feel.

Pick a theme that you love

If you love the outdoors then your kitchen might be based on this type of theme - if that's what you really enjoy more than anything else. Remember, you will spend a considerable amount of time in your kitchen, so it should have a theme that you are most closely related to.

Animals are always a winner

If you like animals then you may want to choose décor such as cute puppies or fluffy kittens or a combination of several different animals that make you feel warm and happy. It's always nice to have a smile on your face as you are preparing meals for you and your family. By planning out a nice theme for your kitchen decor, you can accomplish this feat.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Tom_Turner

Induction Units - A New Era in Kitchens

Cooking has changed a lot over the millennia. What started out as heating food items over a fire or coals has progressed through gas and electric range cooking to a new age of cooking with an electromagnet.

Induction units are unique in that they do not heat up themselves, only the cookware that you place on them. With induction cooking there is no more sweating over a hot stove in the summertime! However, the cookware must be made of steel or cast iron to work properly on an induction unit though, because the pots and pans must be made from a magnetic material. Unfortunately, this means that your fabulous copper pots won't work on an induction element.

It used to be true that for that "professional" cooking experience gas was the way to go but even the professionals are trading in their gas ranges for induction now. Gas used to be the one and only real option for professionals because of its quick reaction time when you adjust temperature. However, induction units react just as fast as a gas range does.

The nature of the induction stove makes it a great option for many people. Because the unit is only a few inches thick, it installs easily into a countertop while allowing an open area underneath which is perfect for wheelchair accessibility. The cool touch top makes it much safer for any household with small children as well. One extra perk to having the unit not heat up is that any spills do not bake on to the stove, making it a breeze to clean up.

If you are building a new home or just renovating your kitchen, consider an induction unit as a modern addition to your design to increase your home's value for resale or to make your kitchen more pleasant to work in. If you like to cook, the fact that it won't overheat your kitchen will be sure to make you wonder how you ever suffered with an electric stove for so long.

Carolyn Capalbo is an expert military relocation specialist and real estate agent serving Virginia's North Virginia real estate market. Visit Just4Real.com to find updated market information about areas in Prince William, including Gainesville VA real estate.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Carolyn_Capalbo

10 Secrets to Get a $30,000 Kitchen For Under $3,000

You see it all the time on TV. People spend outrageous amounts of money to get new kitchens.

You can get a new kitchen for a lot less money than your TV would lead you to believe.

I once owned a lovely Cape Cod house with an 80's style melamine and oak strip kitchen. When we decided to sell to start a new business, potential buyers all hated that kitchen. We didn't get a single offer.

We had no choice but to take the house off the market and fix the kitchen. If you think you might need to resell an attractive kitchen is important. But more importantly it's nice for any homeowner to have a kitchen they love.

We asked the pros what it would cost to reface our kitchen. They estimated it would cost $20,000 to $30,000. And hiring "pros is not without risk. They may or may not do an adequate job. We did our first DIY attempts because of bad experiences with "experts" who didn't deliver.

So we decided to do it ourselves...again.

We did it for $1,200.

Yes we saved at least $18,800 bucks, maybe more.

You can do it, too. Here's how.

Do it one step at a time.

1. Your first step involves making decisions about the layout of your kitchen. If it is reasonably functional keep the sinks and appliances in their current positions. We did not move anything in our kitchen and saved lots of money.

2. Next keep your cabinet boxes if possible. This is a "green" issue as well as a price issue. Cabinets cost a lot of money and should never end up in a landfill. If you do not plan to reuse your cabinets at least donate them to a local charity like Habitat for Humanity or Good Will.

3. Check out home stores for good buys in cabinetry or rejects from manufacturers and cabinetmakers.

4. You can keep the boxes and just get new doors for a new look without some of the cost. I had a cabinetmaker make me paneled doors out of MDF and spray painted them cream. They did wonders for my kitchen and made my house sellable at the same time.

5. Make sure the style of your kitchen matches the exterior style of your house. This is important. My house did not sell because the house was very traditional and the kitchen was 80's modern. People who liked the house hated that kitchen. The house did not sell because of it.

6. Check out appliances that have a few dents or are lightly used. You can find good serviceable things if you can't afford new and perfect. Also look for in stock appliances that are on sale. Stores that keep inventory sometimes have sales. Paying cash might give you an edge for bargaining for better prices, too. Sometimes the only barrier between you and a better price is just asking. Have the gall to ask.

7. Consider using lower cost options for counter tops and floors. Butcher block or bamboo is way cheaper than granite and beautiful and functional. Ceramic tile is both functional and attractive and a good value, too. I'm going for solid surface with recycled glass for my next trick.

8. Look for used furniture that can be incorporated into your kitchen. An old buffet might make a great island. An old armoire could be a pantry. Get creative. You might get a really unique, furniture style kitchen for a lot less money.

9. Don't demolish the old until you have the new on site. Your job will go a lot faster. Keep your old kitchen until you have everything you need to make the new one. We installed our whole new kitchen in one weekend (2 days).

10. Meet code. Building codes exist to make buildings safe. You can download this data from your local government.

All our work was worth it. When we put our house up for sale again we advertised it in the local paper one weekend. It sold to the first lookers for the asking price and without a realtor.

We are making plans to put a "new" kitchen into our current home reusing the existing cabinets, replacing worn out appliances and moving the kitchen to another location in the house. It will not cost a lot of money. I'm too cheap to pay the pros and I'm not changing.

Paula and Ron Stone are lifestyle and financial professionals. Their companies include a private note buying business as well as an insurance agency specializing in group insurance for small businesses. Learn more at their websites, Note Buyer and Small Business Health Insurance

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Paula_Stone

Important Considerations While Remodeling Your New Kitchen

The vast majority of people who decide to start with home remodeling, start first with the kitchen; not surprisingly, since the kitchen is the focal point of the house. New Kitchen Manhattan remodeling can be expensive if you do not take under serious consideration some important tips.

Budget is definitely the first thing to consider. You should define your budget, because that can help you make other necessary decisions later on. We all want the best materials for our houses, but it doesn't always go like that. If you are on a relatively tight budget, or if kitchen is not the only part of the house you want to change, then you should make a priorities list. What needs to be replaced? Is there something that won't stand in the New Kitchen Manhattan you are making? What is the design going to be? Are you opting for a minimal design or something warm with wood cabinets and granite sink and boards? You can be as flexible as you want, when it comes to kitchens, or as flexible as you can afford based on your requirements and needs. This is your house after all and you will be living in it.

Home remodeling is usually confusing, since many home owners have a hard time deciding on the scope of work. If you are hiring a New Bathroom Brooklyn professional to rebuild your bathroom and at the same time you are making plans for your new kitchen Manhattan, then you should probably reconsider; having two major constructions simultaneously in the house is not good and is not convenient for anyone.

Moreover, when you are making your home remodeling plans, you do need to consider that building two of the most necessary rooms at the same time can cause an array of practical problems hard to solve. Decide on your new bathroom Brooklyn once you are done with the kitchen; take one step at the time and always start with the one that is more necessary and will take more time; if you intent to replace cabinetry and appliances, the cost and the time will be an important denominator on your next decision.

Sturat enjoys writing and sharing articles on topics like New Kitchen Manhattan and New Bathroom Brooklyn.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sturat_Mitchel

Give Your Kitchen More Style

To many people a kitchen is the centre of the home. It is the common place to which people naturally tend to gravitate - after all, it's where the food is! Bearing this in mind, it is important to make your kitchen as comfortable and stylish to suit your individual taste and design. In fact, your kitchen can and should be an extension of your home. Today, many Brisbane kitchens are evolving to become an area where residents surround themselves in taste and refinement.

How to Select the Right Style -

Selecting the proper style for your kitchen can be a daunting task. There are many different options to choose from, ranging from a charming country look to a sleek and contemporary design. The layout of the rest of you home will generally determine the style you will select. Do you lean more toward clean white lines with accents of glass and mirrors? Or do the rooms in your home feature bold colours and a warm, friendly feel? The answer to these questions can help you begin deciding what direction to take in the design of your kitchen.

Help is available - Many people hire professional contractors to help them design their Brisbane kitchens with great success. In most cases, virtually anything you can dream up can be accomplished by a professional kitchen designer. This is important to keep in mind, if you feel that the look you want is simply not possible; always run it by a professional contractor before you decide to throw in the towel. The sky is the limit with the right budget.

Building Your Kitchen -

Once you have discussed and made a decision and have a rough direction for you overall kitchens look - whether it be contemporary, traditional or somewhere in between - you can start thinking in more concrete terms. Beyond the overall look of your kitchen, for instance, it is important to think about where you want your counters, appliances and other items to be laid out. As this is your chance to get things exactly the way you want them; it is best to take advantage of this by advising the contractor at the beginning of your preferences and whether they can be achieved.

In designing a kitchen, then, it is essential to think big - and small. Look at the big picture in terms of how things should be laid out, but also bear the small details in mind as well. No matter how small, don't leave any aspects of your kitchen design to change. With the help of a professional contractor, you can come up with a great new look for your kitchen and begin enjoying it in no time at all.

More Space Place understand that more and more people are learning that Brisbane kitchens do not need to be dull or utilitarian. Instead, they can and should mirror your own taste and style. For smaller homes using Murphy wall beds, kitchens can give the entire home a pleasant feel.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=David_S_Judge

Considering Several Materials For Making a Wonderful Kitchen Counter Top

Are you suffering from difficulties in finding the most wonderful kitchen counter top? Some people think it is intricate to get the proper counter top from their kitchen. If you are one among numerous people who have difficulties in hunting for the most excellent counter top, the following information may be advantageous for you.

Whether you are building a novel kitchen from scratch or just remodeling a bit, selecting the perfect counter top is going to be one of the first and most important steps.

Material for Your Kitchen Counter top

The initial thing you are going to have to do is make decision on the material you wish the kitchen counter top to be made out of.

Granite is the classic option. Consequently, if you are short of money, you will most likely have to choose another material for your kitchen counter top. There are enormous advantages of granite, including that it is more low-maintenance than other materials.

Marble is a little less expensive but good-looking as well. Marble is softer than granite. Therefore, it will need more maintenance than granite.

Stainless steel counter tops are also becoming awfully familiar. They offer plenteous of magnificent benefits. In consequence, they do not absorb odors, stains or germs. Be certain that high temperatures will not break your stainless steel counter top. Therefore, you can put hot containers or pans on it without worry of breaking your counter top.

The aforesaid overview shows us that you can still get a special kind of countertop if you choose the appropriate material which will suit to your budget.

Be sure that you take time and put much serious consideration into the process of choosing a kitchen countertop.

Please visit us on the web for more information articles about countertop at: Countertop Consultant.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Thomas_Donte

Factors to Consider When Installing a Kitchen Island

One of the most desirable and fashionable features in the modern kitchens nowadays is the kitchen island. They provide a very useful, utilitarian function within the kitchen but can provide a very stylish look to both traditional and modern designs. Some islands provide a mere extra work surface whilst others incorporate a sink and cooking hob creating a separate kitchen area in the middle of the room. There are a number of points to consider before purchasing or building a kitchen island:

If the island incorporates a cooking hob, adequate ventilation in the form of a kitchen range hood over the island is essential. This will remove noxious cooking gases and particulate matter from the cooking food. This is essential for the health and safety of all those using the kitchen.

The size of the kitchen will determine whether an island is appropriate. They are more suited to the larger kitchens as an island of adequate size may take up the majority of floor space of a small kitchen.

If you intend on running powered appliances on the island than a power source on the island is required and so will require the services of a qualified electrician to install. If this is something you are considering then it may be worth installing the fridge and freezer within the island.

It is important to get the right style of island to match the overall look of the kitchen. This can be improved if you are able to use the same work surface material as the rest of the kitchen. It is worth visiting show homes as these often great for looking at different styles and design ideas. They can also provide contact details of manufacturers and installers.

Performing on online search is another quick and easy way of looking at the various styles. It is also possible to get good deals by shopping online although sometimes it can be difficult to get the overall feel without looking at them in person.

If you are considering installing an island into your kitchen then shop around and anticipate how you are going to use your island in order not to make any expensive mistakes. When visiting a showroom take a long a list of the features you require to ensure you get all the features you need.

Many people nowadays are installing a kitchen island. This article looks at factors that you need to consider such as installing kitchen range hoods and electrical safety. The range hood is probably one of the most important health and safety features to take into account.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ray_T_Jones

Outdoor Kitchen - The Ideal Summer Solution

You may like the new design ideas for the outdoor kitchen as they successfully combine the old prototype of the cabin kitchens and the fresh, fashionable ideas of utility and beauty. Besides, this is the ideal solution for the summer period when all family members gather around the table of the outdoor kitchen near the built-in barbecue center or grill for conversation and a lovely meal.

The outside kitchen is ideal for placing in the backyard, nearer to nature, with a picnic table. Needless to say that the outdoor kitchen is the most fashionable home trend as it easily attract the members of the family, the friends and the neighbors near a fireplace in the evening. There are a lot of companies specialized in outdoor kitchen furniture, grills and accessories with talented designers who are able to build the outdoor kitchen of your wildest and boldest dreams.

More and more people desire an patio kitchen very similar to their indoor kitchen with more appliances as is the case of the built-in grills of high-quality that may be used almost all year round. Therefore, the outsi kitchen usually has a gas oven, a refrigerator, a sink, a bar or entertainment area with compartments for drinks, ice and spice and, of course, a serving cart. Everything has to be close at hand for having a great time without running into the house for every utensil or needed ingredient. The outdoor kitchen is a valuable and desirable place for the family members.

There are two important aspects while considering the fact of building ar kitchen: the location and the arrangement of the grill, furniture, etc. The ideal place for an outdoor kitchen is near the house, in the backyard, not too close to the house to save you from the smoke of the grill inside the rooms and not too far from it to save your efforts of going inside and outside the house for the needed products. The needed components of this kitchen must have their order and special arrangement. You may have your own ideas or you may need a designer to be sure that everything is at its place.

When discussing the patio kitchen, you have to take into account the fact that the grill is the center of the cookout, so you have to place the other components to avoid the smoke and to enjoy in the most relaxing manner the fireplace and its benefits. The outdoor kitchen must combine the most efficient and fresh ideas.

This article was written by Tyler, who is the author of Indoor Furniture, which is dedicated to bring you information about all indoor furniture, everything from oak bedroom furniture to bean bag chairs.

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Corner Kitchen Cabinet Dimensions

How to design your kitchen: The decor of the kitchen is very important because with this you can distribute the furniture and accessories in an organized manner. When it comes to designing your kitchen you must follow several steps such as taking the necessary measures.

You must measure the length and width of the kitchen, like the height from floor to ceiling, to the latter it is important to note that the width and height of the walls are taken from different locations because the walls and floor are almost always present irregularities. You must also measure the door and window, each with its framework, like drains, radiators, making gas, water valves, sink, appliances, etc..

After these measures are scored, you must draw a floor plan to start a scale that reflects the area and perimeter of the kitchen with windows and doors. We recommend using a scale of 1:20 a A4 format. In the drawing, you must display the proper position of electrical outlets, gas and water, and of course, the ventilation ducts, if any. The next step is the distribution of the elements of the kitchen, it is important to know that their work will facilitate the distribution to make the chores, which is why there is to know the importance of the triangle of work, these are the three areas that are essential in a kitchen, which include the washing area, you will sink, the dishwasher, the cans, disinfectants, the wringer, and so on., the area of cooking, here is the oven, microwave The grease remover, utensils, condiments, oils, etc.. and the food storage area, this will serve to store food, both natural and prolonged expiration, if you distribute these three areas, your work faster and more efficient.

How to do it: There are several ways to distribute these areas quickly and easily, these are:

Online: you place the area of washing, storage and cooking as a line, this form of distribution shall be forfeited, if your kitchen is narrow and elongated.

At the same time: here are placed in two areas in front and a line, we recommend a minimum of 120cm between the two rows of furniture, this distribution is done in a long, wide kitchen, and kitchen with two doors opposite.

L: This is recommended in medium and large kitchens, here are placed the furniture in two adjoining walls, with this distribution will have auxiliary spaces, where we can have a table to eat.

Among others.

If you already have thought that the distribution given to the areas, then move to the next step, which is the location of furniture, you must first locate the basic elements of the triangle of work outlined above (stove, microwave, refrigerator, sink, etc.), then put the furniture that are low in a corner, place a piece of furniture to the sink and place the dishwasher next to it, it is advisable to place the stove in one corner of the kitchen, then place the furniture top, get a showcase to sharpen the visual weight of the furniture top, etc.. It is important to note that there must be a distance of 60cm between the sink and the kitchen and should not be put keys in front of windows that open inwards.

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