By extending wall cabinets to the ceiling and adding more storage, Abraham A. of Califon, NJ was able to transform a cluttered room (below) to an elegant showplace (above). The result is a kitchen that's ideal for entertaining as well as ordinary everyday chores.
The original room had wasted and unusable space above the wall cabinets and not enough countertop room. Apothecary-type drawers set at countertop level served no real purpose, and the bookshelf above was not large enough for the homeowner's cookbooks. The plain glass wall cabinets meant storage had to be kept neat without really adding much in the way of decoration.
Abraham selected our custom framed cabinets with Vintage raised panel kitchen cabinet doors and plain panel drawers in Hazelnut finish. A single etched glass door with decorative mullions added a distinctive look. The quartz countertops were Silestone Mountain Mist with a bevel edge, and the lustrous finish of the tops brightens the room and accents the black glass appliances.
Storage for the owner's cookbook collection was added at the end of the island and the space where the bookshelf and apothecary drawers were is now usable countertop space. A molding over the window in Hazelnut finish adds an elegant touch. The oversized double sink was replaced with a contemporary stainless steel sink.
What's a kitchen cabinet but a place to house some dishware, right?
While that might've been the case before, the expression "The Kitchen is the Heart of the Home" has never been more true than in today's homes. Kitchen cabinet designs are a primary kitchen design element.
The kitchen used to be a separate room, hidden from guests. Now, kitchens are a part of an open floor-plan and customers care more than ever about what their kitchens say about them. That's right, your kitchen cabinet designs are going to be a part of telling the world, "We are ultra-modern and chic chic chic!" or "I wanted to create my grandma's country kitchen because all my best memories are there."
Need some inspiration selecting kitchen cabinet colors or kitchen cabinet styles? Check out, Our 5 Most Popular Kitchen Cabinet Colors and Our Top 5 Kitchen Cabinet Door Styles.
5 Most Popular Kitchen Cabinet Designs: Color Style Combinations
While a color or style can make a statement alone, one always has an affect on the other.
1. Frosty White on Prestige Square - This look can lend a contemporary feel due to the square edges and bright white finish. But paired with soft colors and traditional decor, it will complete a modern country kitchen look as well. White is always a good choice to brighten up small spaces.
2. Classic Cherry w/Black Glaze on Vintage Raised Panels - This combination creates a luxurious high-end statement no matter what it goes with. We sense granite or Zodiaq as potential countertop surfaces...
3. Antique White w/Walnut Glaze on Breckenridge Square - This goes back to the Grandma's homey kitchen memories, but adds an upscale twist. Mmmm....smells like coffee and a hint of cinnamon to us!
4. Classic Cherry on Prestige Square - If you hadn't noticed the versatility of Prestige Square, you will soon. A Classic Cherry finish is always an upscale choice and looks best with dark or stainless steel appliances.
5. Secret on Prestige Square. This combo is versatility. It's a great option if you like a clean and simple aesthetic or plan to remodel in the future and want cabinets that are easy to work around.
These suggestions have been tried-and-true selections throughout the many years we've been in business. This tells us our customers are thoroughly satisfied, and these selections help to maintain the resale value of their homes.
Come in and let us help you design the kitchen of your dreams. Better yet, we can bring the showroom to you. Call (855) 573-3223 to schedule and hour of expert advice from one of our consultants in the comfort of your own home.
When you’re bombarded with many technical remodeling terms, it can be confusing -- especially if the terms sound similar.
Two of the most common similar-sounding terms used in the cabinet industry that may have you scratching your head are “resurfacing” and “refacing.” In addition, you may have heard of the term “refinishing” and wonder about the differences between it and the other two.
Refinishing describes a process in which the finish on existing cabinetry including doors, drawers and false fronts is stripped, the visible surfaces sanded and a new finish of paint or stain and lacquer applied.
Resurfacing describes a process in which existing cabinet framework is resurfaced with laminate or wood veneer instead of refinished or replaced, and the doors, hardware and drawers, or drawer and false fronts, are replaced with new ones.
Refacing is a term used interchangeably with “cabinet resurfacing” by cabinet makers and professional remodelers. The word “face,” as it applies to objects, is simply the front or visible surfaces of an object. When you resurface/reface cabinetry, you’re giving the visible exterior surfaces a facelift.
Differences
The biggest differences between cabinet refinishing and cabinet resurfacing/refacing is the time and cost involved. Refinishing is a labor-intensive process. Stripping away an old finish from all cabinet surfaces and replacing it completely usually takes longer than the three to five days it would take a cabinet professional to reface cabinet surfaces with veneer.
Refinishing also creates health hazards that don’t exist with cabinet resurfacing. Strippers, thinners, paints, stains, sealers and lacquers contain harmful volatile organic chemicals (VOCs) that can cause upper respiratory harm. These chemicals release into the air during the remodeling project and often long after it ends.
Heat and humidity that occur naturally in kitchens and bathrooms can often rapidly -- within a year or two -- deteriorate a finish resulting in bubbles, cracks, discoloration and fading. Once the damage happens, you must go through the costly process of refinishing cabinet surfaces again. On the other hand, refacing products such as laminate veneers are designed to withstand heat and humidity. If a problem does arise, you don’t need to repair or replace all surfaces to fix the damage.
Kitchen Magic specialists are eager to share their decades of experience in the industry to help you unravel the confusion caused by these and other terms. For a free consultation, call Kitchen Magic at (855) 573-3223.
When I lived in an apartment by myself I never used the dishwasher. I would simply wash the dishes in the sink after I used them. Since I lived alone it would take quite a few meals to collect enough dishes to actually make it worthwhile to run the dishwasher. I did entertain some guests from time to time, but I was in the habit of washing their dishes in the sink too.
As time passed I noticed that I had fewer and fewer dishes but I did not know why. Eventually I had so few dishes to eat from I decided to investigate where all my dishes might be going. I would hate to think that any of my guests were dish theives. I didn't even want to entertain a suspect. As I was looking at every possible place throughout the kitchen and the apartment it never occured to me to check the dishwasher because I never used the dishwasher. But one day I thought "why not," and I opened the dishwasher door and discovered the other half of my set of dishes. My guests thought they were being helpful by putting them in the dishwasher for me. I guess they didn't know I never used the dishwasher.
The dishwasher is indeed a common kitchen appliance, but I've found other kitchen accessories much more useful. Perhaps I can live without a dishwasher, but I cannot say the same for a seamless Corian countertop and sink. I'm surprised everyone doesn't have one of these. You cannot tell where the countertop ends and the sink begins. It looks and feels as if it is all one piece. Perhaps this is the way kitchen countertops and sinks were meant to be joined. I'm glad mine are.
How about instant hot water? Few things about a kitchen are more convenient than not having to boil water for tea. It's a beautiful thing to have 190° purified water right on tap. If you are getting a kitchen remodel anyway, consider adding instant hot water to your wish list. You will be able to drink as much tea as you want without labor, and your guests will be impressed too. If you're like me though, make sure your guests don't put their used teacups in the dishwasher. I'd much rather wash them in a seamless Corian sink.
Garbage disposals are nice too. No need to worry about what goes down the drain when you have a garbage disposal. This is all within reason of course. When the kitchen sink starts draining a little too slowly you know it's time to flick the switch to the 'on' position. Suddenly you hear a grinding sound, the water starts to flow down the drain, and all is right with the world once again. Well, all is right with your kitchen anyway. Then just turn off the switch, rinse and repeat.
Finally, I must not go without saying something about Blumotion hinges for kitchen cabinet doors. They work wonders for drawers as well. Blumotion is like magic. No matter how hard you close the doors or drawers in your kitchen you will not hear them. Now, if you are the type that likes to display your anger by slamming your kitchen cabinet doors this product is not for you. With Blumotion hinges, no one will be able to hear that you are angry. On the other hand if you are a light sleeper and someone else in your house is a midnight snacker, then Blumotion hinges for your cabinet doors will be perfect for you. Your housemate will be able to snack without guilt, and you will be able to sleep.
Whether it’s your first kitchen kitchen remodeling project or tenth, you want the experience to be a good one.
One of the best ways you can help guarantee a good kitchen remodel memory is to review the experiences of previous customers of the remodeling company you’re considering. Review customer testimonials for statements about common factors that affect experience such as timeliness, professionalism, friendliness and cleanliness.
Timeliness
A good memory will likely come from a company whose staff (cabinetmakers, carpenters, installers, etc.) understand that being on time and completing a project within a set schedule, if not before, is the mark of professionalism. Look for statements such as:
“The installers were timely and efficient.”
“I couldn’t be happier. The workers completed the project ahead of schedule.”
Professionalism
Statements in which customers mention professionalism are an obvious indicator of the type of experience you’ll have. Look for statements such as:
“The salespeople were so helpful. They addressed each question head on.”
“The workers made a team effort and didn’t shy away from problems.”
Friendliness
Feeling comfortable with strangers in your home or office is an important part of making a kitchen remodeling experience a good memory. If workers are unfriendly or frown, you might feel uncomfortable asking important questions that could prevent miscommunications or suprises. Look for statements such as:
“From start to finish, everyone working for the company was personable, pleasant and professional.”
“The workers were always smiling from the start of the day to the end. They were very friendly and looked like they enjoyed their work.”
Cleanliness
Kitchen remodeling work performed by contractors who leave behind debris and trash at the end of a work day or project is likely going to be low-quality, as people who can’t respect your home or don’t make the effort to clean it are likely not going to give your project 110 percent effort. Look for statements such as:
“The installers took the extra time to clean up at the end of each day. I’m impressed”
“Everything was just spotless!”
With a bit of customer kitchen remodeling testimonial research, you can quickly learn if the company you’re considering will provide you with a good kitchen remodeling memory or a bad one.
For people with mobility issues, an ordinary kitchen can be an impassible minefield. And as baby boomers age, more and more of us will want to stay in our homes even as our ability to get around declines.
The kitchen can be a better place to work for those with accessibility issues. Here are some easy ways to remodel your kitchen to make life easier, and kitchen chores safer, efficient and more pleasant.
1) Lower wall and floor cabinets. The standard kitchen is designed for a person of average height while standing. Lower cabinets accommodate the wheelchair bound or those who have trouble standing for long periods.
2) Pull down shelves and lazy susans. Make upper wall cabinets and corners of base cabinets usable, accessible storage.
3) Open space between a cooktop and sink. This reduces the amount of reaching and stretching someone has to do and increases safety.
4) Easy-to-load dishwasher, refrigerator and oven. By placing smaller units at a more convenient height, users can safely place and remove items for use.
5) Pull out cutting boards. Make food preparation comfortable and easy.
Kitchen Magic works with homeowners to create completely functional, modified and stylish renovated kitchens. For more information you may also want to see our blog article entitled 3 Kitchen Remodeling Questions for Seniors or you may call Kitchen Magic at (855) 573-3223.
Sometimes too much information or products similarities can make selecting a kitchen counter material extremely difficult.
Use this brief comparison of four commonly used materials to counter your kitchen counter confusion:
Laminate Counters
Laminates are thin, lightweight low-cost materials made of compressed paper layers bonded with resin.
Pros: Laminates counters are available in hundreds of solid colors and patterns including designs that simulate the look and texture of natural granite or wood. Laminates quickly install on existing or wood substrate replacement counters, and although they have seams, some manufacturers offer visibly seamless ogee and bull nose counter edge options.
Cons: Laminate kitchen counters can scratch, chip, burn or stain. They can warp with exposure to high moisture and humidity, or melt with exposure to heat.
Granite
Granite usually refers to 100 percent natural high-grade stone quarried from different sites around the world.
Pros: Granite forms naturally in a wide array of colors and unique, visually appealing patterns. It is heat and scratch resistant, as well as stain-resistant if sealed. Granite countertops are highly valued and can increase the value of a home.
Cons: Granite kitchen counters can crack or chip, and color and grain inconsistencies can make them costly to repair or replace. Granite is porous must be sealed to prevent stains and discoloration. Granite counters can also have visible seams.
Corian
Corian countertops are affordable engineered solid surfaces made of natural minerals, pigments and acrylic.
Pros: Corian offers many solid color and pattern design options. Corian is non-porous and doesn’t require sealant or polishing. It is fade, stain, scratch and bacteria resistant. An expert installer can cut and install Corian to appear seamless.
Cons: Cutting food on Corian kitchen counters may scratch or dull them. Placing a hot pan directly on Corian can also cause damage. However, most damage dome to Corian can be repaired.
Quartz
Quartz is an engineered stone material and is offered under various brands including Silestone, Cambria and Zodiaq. Quartz products are made of 93 percent natural quartz mixed with pigments and acrylic resin.
Pros: Quartz options are available in more than a hundred colors and patterns. Like Corian, Quartz products are non-porous and don’t require sealants or polishing to retain their luster. They are also scratch, chip, stain and bacteria resistant.
Cons: Quartz kitchen counters can crack if exposed to direct heat over long periods of time.
Whew! Whether you are remodeling an existing kitchen or building a brand new one, the options and upgrades process is exhausting. It can deplete even the most gung-ho of interior decorators. But take heart! We are here to help that process go as smoothly and seamlessly (pun intended) as possible.
If you haven't selected your kitchen cabinet colors, check out our blog, Our 5 Most Popular Kitchen Cabinet Colors for tips on where to start. Otherwise, it's time to make decisions about your kitchen cabinet door styles. There are seemingly endless possibilities and this blog can help you narrow them down to 5 of the most popular cabinet door styles.
We've been at this a long time and if there is one thing we have learned it's that certain styles truly stand the test of time. This is helpful for you now, and helpful down the road when it comes to the resale value of your home.
Top 5 Kitchen Cabinet Door Styles
Prestige Square for Wall or Base Cabinets - This cabinet design is a contemporary design that works well with any modern kitchen decorating theme. Whether you've chosen rich tones, or desire clean bright designs, this cabinet style is a desirable option and works well in a kitchen with square and/or geometric patterns.
Vintage Raised Panel Doors - These raised panels make your kitchen cabinets, literally "pop". Your cabinet doors become a part of the decor with the two tone effect of the raised and depressed panels. Keep in mind that these doors may require more labor intensive cleaning if little ones have access to them.
Prestige Cathedral Wall Cabinets With Prestige Square Base Cabinets - These kitchen cabinet door styles combine a high-end look that pairs well with modern or classic kitchen schemes. The arched Cathedral cabinet pattern can add height to a kitchen and Square base cabinet lines mimic the angles of appliances and counter tops.
Prestige Statesman Doors - This selection looks just as it sounds, classic and stately. Whether your decorating flair is ultra modern, or a simple old world look, these cabinets will compliment your taste.
Breckenridge Square Doors - These cabinet doors look wonderful in a country kitchen, or with an elegant contemporary space. It all depends on the colors and finishes you select.
Contact us to schedule your free hour of expert advice and one of our experienced representatives will come out to your home to help you choose the best cabinet door style for your kitchen. If you are not ready to speak to someone yet, download our free offer below for additional tips on how to plan a successful kitchen remodeling.
The Smith family from Bound Brook, NJ desired to turn their sunny yellow and lime green cabinets of a by gone day (below) into a homey country showplace with lots of charm. They were looking for a design to include plenty of storage space, with a more contemporary appeal and easy care style.
After visiting us at the Raritan Valley Home Show and scheduling an appointment with one of our consultants, they decided to replace their kitchen cabinets with custom made new ones. The family opted for beautiful birch cabinets sealed with a warm medium stain, and our popular Vintage raised panel doors. The countertops are Sienna Ridge quartz with a bevel edge, and the backsplash is DuPont Corian in bone hue. The result is a warm and inviting kitchen, ideal for dining or entertaining.
Although we are sure the Smith family has many fond memories of the days when friends and family gathered to share a meal in their old kitchen, they are now set to create many more wonderful memories in their new kitchen.
The above cabinets were made in America by skilled cabinet makers working at Kitchen Magic's state of the art cabinet shop located in Nazareth, PA, and installed by our very own certified craftsmen.
If you would like to schedule a free hour of expert advice on how you can create this same sort of transformation in your home, please call us toll free at (855) 573-3223 or download our free 12-page Consumer Guide (below) for more information on how to get started.
When you are ready to remodel your kitchen and/or upgrade your kitchen cabinets, your first considerations will likely involve color schemes. It is important that your kitchen cabinet colors work with both the decor of your kitchen, as well as any living space that is visible from the kitchen area, and vice versa. You will also want to consider colors that work with your own decorating style, yet will also appeal to potential home buyers down the road.
One way to honor both considerations is to select cabinet colors that have long-standing popularity in the kitchen cabinet industry. By choosing a top kitchen cabinet color, you know your selection will meet your own aesthetic standards, and be considered a desirable choice for others as well.
Our 5 Most Popular Kitchen Cabinet Colors
Frosty White - This finish provides a traditional kitchen cabinet look with the ability to blend with almost any decor. They are especially appealing choices for smaller kitchen spaces as the white laminate finish adds light to an enclosed space and creates a feeling of spaciousness.
Classic Cherry - Cherry finishes have been a popular choice for decades. They provide a high-end look and work well with darker kitchen countertops, as well as stainless steel appliances. Unless you have an open floor plan, you may want to steer away from darker finishes if you have a small kitchen space.
Antique White with a Walnut Glaze - "Home" is the first term that comes to mind when you view kitchen cabinets with this glaze. Whether you have a country, vintage, or just plain cozy style, this glaze will make your guests feel instantly at home.
Cherry Pear - If Classic Cherry is just a little too dark for your taste, but you enjoy the warm and rosy tones of a cherry finish, then this is the recommended selection for you. It offers the warmth of a cherry finish while still maintaining a brighter overall presentation. It can also help to add light to an enclosed kitchen space.
Secret - This kitchen cabinet door is the perfect look for anyone who has an evolving decorative style. It is light enough to blend with lighter decor but has enough warmth to accommodate darker tones. It's contemporary and will easily blend with modern appliances.
While there are a variety of kitchen cabinet door colors to choose from, these recommendations offer a guaranteed way to select attractive cabinets for everyone's favorite living space.