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Top 3 Kitchen Trends for 2020

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Years back, the kitchen was buried in the back of the house. It was a place where meals were cooked, and dirty dishes were cleaned. Today in 2020, the kitchen has a different part. Now, the kitchen is the central area of the home. The kitchen is the room that brings everyone together in the morning or after a long day at night. In the present times, the kitchen is the center of the house.

Kitchens have transformed a lot over the years, and preparation for your kitchen renovation is essential. Machinery improvements used by the interior renovation services NJ and changing societal dynamics have backed prominently to the rise of the modern kitchen. There is more concentration on open model households that circle around the kitchen so everyone can be together. Hygienic and simple styles have become preferences for proprietors. Moreover, natural light is becoming a vital feature of the complete look and function of the kitchen space.

With assistance from kitchen designers Monmouth County NJ experts, here are the topmost 3 styles in kitchen design we hope to see in 2020.

Smart Kitchens

Technology has entered the kitchen in the form of impressive devices and machines. Now, you can have a kitchen with technology incorporated in each task and application. For example, from the taps to the fridge to the lights, there is technology. This is known as a smart kitchen. Smart kitchens are a developing characteristic of the design. Actually, numerous kitchens nowadays are constructed smart from the ground up. In old kitchens, smart devices, sensors, and other tools can be installed for the convenience of the owner.

Cabinet Colors: Dark Colors Have Finally Arrived & White Is Ready To Go Out!

Even though white cabinets are a classic look that can be used in nearly any type of kitchen design, we are gradually starting to see them go out! We assume that the white look will begin a decline in demand until 2020. We will have to end the all-white kitchen look for owners to see a variety of different paint shades or wood dye colors. The mixing of textures creates a desirable accent piece and other pops-of-color. These pops-of-colors are mostly known in shades of blue and green.

Moreover, these neutral natural shades are one more color palette that is making its way into the kitchen. This color palette consists of dark jewel tones such as navy, emerald green, black, and even plum. It will amaze you at how well dark kitchen cupboards can work and improve a kitchen space with its luxurious touch.

Single Level Multipurpose Kitchen Islands

Kitchen islands are no longer reconsideration or something diminutive to squeeze into any space. They have gone on to become the focal points and the hub of any kitchen. One of the changes for affordable kitchen remodeling NJ, emerging, is the single level more extensive sizing, serving versatile uses, especially since we are expecting less wall cabinet space in kitchen design. The kitchen island is expected to produce an impact, and its design should make a statement.

Why Choose Quartz Countertops While Remodeling Your Kitchen

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Are you thinking about remodeling your kitchen? But, before you start to tear down your walls, and pull your cabinets out, take a few minutes to think about your budget and your lifestyle. It might be easier for you to upgrade your kitchen one step at a time, instead of taking on a massive remodeling project at once! A laidback approach towards your kitchen renovation is going to help you keep your budget in check. It is also going to help you let you use your kitchen, as you can lose access to space if you do a full renovation at once.

The very first thing you and your remodeling contractors in New York should consider is the layout plus the organization of the kitchen. Then, once you are perfectly satisfied with the design, you can move on to choosing the countertops for your kitchen. When it comes to kitchen countertops, there are numerous different options available to choose from. From marble to granite to tile, and everything in between, the possibilities are infinite.

However, Kitchen Countertops Contractor NJ recommends using quartz countertops for several reasons. Let’s look at some of these below.

Resale Value

When you are remodeling your kitchen, it is always a smart move to keep the resale value of your house in mind. As quartz countertops are appealing to prospective buyers, it raises the resale value for your home if you use them. This is because quartz offers the beauty appeal that costlier materials have to offer at a lower price point.

Versatile

As quartz countertops are engineered in factories, they are available in a massive range of colors. Quartz countertops consist of approximately 94% natural quartz. The remaining 6% is mostly a mixture of polyester resin. Most remodeling contractors in New York also advise homeowners to use quartz because of how versatile it is.

Durable Material

One of the biggest complaints homeowners who have countertops constructed using marble or granite is that they are incredibly susceptible to get stained. Countertops that reconstructed using stone are also very porous, and therefore, are quick to stain if you are not careful. If you are searching for a more durable option, quartz is the one you should go for. As quartz contains resin, the material is hard and also low maintenance.

Affordable

Quartz countertops, according to Kitchen Countertops Contractor NJ, are incredibly reasonable and yet look amazing and add to the overall appeal of the kitchen. If you are someone who wants to remodel their kitchen in a budget, quartz countertops can deliver a big bang for your buck.

We hope that the points, as mentioned above, helped you understand that quartz really is a good option when it comes to using it for countertops in your kitchen. Not only is it affordable, but you also get a wide array of designs and colors to choose from. So, are you going to use quartz countertops for your kitchen? Let us know in the comments!  

4 Reasons Why You Should Get a Backsplash in Your Kitchen

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Backsplashes are a cheap way to totally change the look of your kitchen with interior renovation services NJ. Stone, tile, glass, and metal backsplashes are a trendy addition to any restroom or kitchen. Yet, numerous individuals don’t understand that backsplashes are attractive as well as practical. We have designed uncountable kitchen and restroom makeovers for our clients, many of these include installing backsplashes.

Below are four of the topmost reasons how backsplashes can benefit your toilet or kitchen as described by our New Jersey home remodeling contractors.

It’s Protective

Whatever supplies you use, a kitchen or bathroom backsplash will guard the wall behind your counters and basins. Rather than dealing with difficult and hard-to-clean stains, you can use backsplash to trap food and fluids that might end up on your wall. Shielding your walls from liquid damage is backsplashes primary purpose. Kitchens and restrooms are both prone to water damage, which can root severe fungus problems and physical concerns. Getting your backsplash fixed will stop constant liquid contact from turning into a serious issue.

It’s Stylish

An evident advantage of the backsplash is that it adds more grace and style to your restroom or kitchen. You can design your backsplash to be an advanced and innovative accent. You can also make your backsplash complement and match the area’s current decorating pattern. Make sure that your kitchen remodeling companies NJ select a material and shade that does not clash with your counter.

Moreover, many well-known materials are stone tile and ceramic. Thus possibilities for customization and modifying your backsplash to your particular style are almost infinite. Backsplashes mainly made with ceramic tile are very easy to install, you can add a lot of style with little work. Furthermore, installing a kitchen backsplash or renovating your old one will undoubtedly add to the value of your home.

It Will Cut Down On Your Cleaning

Backsplash materials cut the time you spend cleaning your kitchen or restroom. Tile is the best example of easy-clean backsplash material. It is waterproof, and you can clean it by rubbing it with a damp fabric or scrubber. The same goes for metal, stone, and glass tiles. If your backsplash is correctly sealed, washing it is very easy. Since backsplashes shield your walls from stains and food remains, they also aid in preventing pests, particularly in the kitchen.

It Prevents Stains

You can also design your backsplashes materials so that they last for an extended period of time without sustaining damage or stains. Glass, tile, and metal are all solid materials that will stop stains while demanding little to no care. Stone is extremely durable. However, it’s also absorbent, so you must have it sealed every year to avoid lasting marks.

The above mentioned four reasons prove that kitchen and restroom backsplashes serve a purpose while adding style. Give us one of the best kitchen remodeling companies NJ, a call now at Floor Coverings International, if you are interested in installing an exciting and practical backsplash to your home!

Granite Countertops: The Benefits and Drawbacks

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Granite has been a top selection for homeowners looking to amplify the look and feel of their overall kitchen for years. Granite countertops deliver terrific aesthetics in bathrooms and kitchen and offer other brilliant qualities as well. However, it’s important that you keep some probable weaknesses in mind as you take into consideration the granite countertops for your home. How to find out if granite is the correct surface selection for yours? Here’s us looking at both sides of the issue.

Why Should You Go For Granite Countertops?

Every granite slab is distinct, features its patterns, colors, and lines. This uniqueness allows you to have an individual countertop that won’t be present anywhere else. Granite is filled with rich beauty that only a few other countertop materials can match. It’s a natural product with a timeless appeal and aura. Granite countertops visually take a high-quality kitchen to the next level, often becoming the centerpiece of the room. With a little more than 20 granite shades available, you’ll find one that perfectly blends with your walls, flooring, and kitchen cabinets.

Granite countertops do not just add an instant upscale appeal to your bathroom and kitchen; they offer your home a lasting value, making it a wise investment. The substance of granite is quite hard, and it isn’t susceptible to scratches. In fact, the only material that is hard enough to scratch granite is a diamond or another piece of granite. Although it isn’t ideal for working on because it has the tendency to dull knife blades, its ability to take the wear and tear quite well needs to be lauded. Granite resists heat as well, so its use near a cooktop or a range is ideal. When you have to set down a hot pan fast, granite may take the heat without being weakened or damaged. In the bathroom, placing a warm hair tool on it won’t cause you any problem.

Granite resists heat, so it becomes quite practical when cooking near a rooftop or a range. Placing pans or hot pots directly on your countertop is acceptable since granite may take the heat without being weakened or damaged. Granite won’t absorb liquids when it’s properly sealed and can be very resistant to stains. A professional installer can seal it correctly so that it indefinitely maintains its attractive good looks, or you can do it yourself.

Why You Should Be Cautious When Going For Granite Countertops

For all their durability and beauty, granite counters do have some weaknesses. The most concerning problems may emerge when the sealant wears off without the counters being resealed or when the countertops aren’t sealed correctly. Granite is porous. This means that poorly sealed or unsealed counters can absorb oil, juice, or wine, producing a stain that may be difficult to get rid of. Additionally, a poorly-sealed countertop may also house bacteria in its pores.

Some treated granite may go ten years without being sealed. However, a number of countertops will need to be resealed annually. When you overlook this, it won’t take much time for granite countertops to begin showing staining signs.

Although the durability of these counters cannot be doubted, if a heavy object is dropped on a corner, the granite may be chipped or cracked. While the probability of its occurrence is close to negligible, no one can count this off. Finally, granite countertops are expensive. So, don’t be surprised if you’ll have to pay at least $100 per square foot of the countertop.

Another problem with granite and similar stone countertops materials is coldness. This is because the mass of granite immediately pulls away heat from the skin, causing the brain to think that the surface is cold.

Verdict

Do you know a thing or two about home maintenance projects, including keeping up with frequent granite countertop cleaning? Are you careful with events such as juice spills? If yes, there isn’t any reason to not consider granite countertops. Contrastingly, if you would do better with a no-maintenance countertop because your lifestyle is busy, you’ve got a number of other brilliant options too.

If you’re in search of white sparkle granite countertops, the professionals at AP Kitchen will assist you greatly. Being a leading kitchen countertops contractor in NY, AP Kitchen delivers the best granite countertops in New York City.

8 Things I Learned About Remodeling My Kitchen

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Our small kitchen in the 1980s in Northeast Phoenix came with original appliances, tile countertops, fluorescent box lights, and a dropped ceiling, including a groovy trash compactor. When we purchased the house in 2008, we know we’d have to renovate it soon. For years the price tag – and the task – seemed overwhelming.

When the odd-sized oven was scorching everything after the main electric cooktop burner went out, it was time. If we needed to sell the house, we were sure we’d take a hit, baths, and kitchens still sell homes. The last thing I wanted was to renovate at the finish line or make incremental upgrades for someone else. If carried out perfectly, I knew this space would enhance the look of our house. Here are eight things I learned from remodeling my kitchen, which took six solid weeks of construction and a few months of planning to complete.

1. Select the right cabinets

My mantra is an affordable design. I’ve known a lot of builders and architects who adore soft-close drawers and doors, quality hardware, modern look, and a number of organizing options that make cabinets highly functional. Initially, I liked the price, although the additional costs are way more than advertised and added up fast. What I wasn’t aware of was that these cabinets have a fiberboard back panel, and contractors who don’t know much about it will have a hard time figuring this out. We should sign our construction contract to describe the whole system of laminate (technically melamine foil and particleboard) inner cabinets filled with wood panels; it could’ve saved me a few mistakes and more than half-dozen trips.

2. Look for a kitchen designer

One of my best investments was the money I spent on a kitchen designer. Yes, you can do this yourself by using software, for example. However, a designer that has familiarity with the product can save you a lot of frustration and time, helping you maximize storage in a tight space. It helps especially if you’re specific about the amenities and the layout you want.

3. Set a reasonable budget

Out of frugal DNA and necessity, I was sure I could do an affordable remodel. While I wanted to do an affordable remodel, the term ‘affordable’ is itself a relative term. When we only started thinking about this project, we had a rough figure of $12,000 in mind – perfectly reasonable if you watch some home-improvement shows. Unluckily, that’s less than half of the cost our remodel ended up incurring.

4. Plan ahead to save some bucks

We hoped to save money by hauling away the old appliances and cabinets, having a local non-profit demo, and assembling our cabinets. Some services offered a free demo service when you donate your used appliances and cabinets. Unluckily, we couldn’t schedule the demo in time for our contractor as they were booked weeks in advance. We also learned that financing might take longer than a remodel. We were communicated that it takes roughly 45 days or more after pre-approval to acquire a home equity credit line. So apply at least 2-3 months before you’ll need it.

5. Add shine with a backsplash

A backsplash is regarded as the jewelry of a kitchen. What you select can define your style and either detract from or add to a cohesive look. For some years, I’ve noticed a trend toward seamless stab-glass backsplashes. The look is durable, modern, clean, and seamless. Sounds great, isn’t it? When installed, a big, glass subway tile looks more green-gray, but it adds substantial polish and shine to very minimal kitchen design.

6. Choose quality countertops

Generally, generic slab granite doesn’t fascinate me. However, quartz countertops, which are built from natural ground stone bound with resin, are trendy. They come in tons of colors, fit a modern aesthetic, and are more maintenance-free and durable than other surfaces. There’s no question about quartz being a splurge, but it’s worth it.

7. Prioritize efficiency oversize

Our whole kitchen doesn’t exceed the 120 square feet mark. For years, we have been dreaming of extending it onto an unused, small patio, but we knew it was a budget buster. By maximizing the space we had (in addition to the extra cabinet space from raising the ceiling), we made our small kitchen feel surprisingly roomy, and the efficient layout has made cooking far less stressful. Our daughter is in love with space. She calls it ‘her’ kitchen. And the cupcakes? Awesome.

8. Prepare for a mess

After the remodel, the general mess and dust took a toll. We were literally sick of fast and take-out food. Looking back, though, it was all worth it. For the very first time, I enjoy spending time in my kitchen.

Looking for experts?

If you’re in New Jersey and looking for kitchen contractors, give us a call or visit our kitchen cabinet showroom in NJ, we’re sure you won’t be disappointed.

Luxury Kitchen – We Opened our 2nd Showroom in New Jersey – Visit Us

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Luxury Kitchen – New Jersey Showroom

We are very happy to announce that we have opened our second location in the beautiful town of Colts Neck.  Not only do we install in New York, now we have a showroom for our New Jersey clients to conveniently visit us, view various samples of our granite and stone as well as have the ability to sit down with one of our professional designers to help you build your dream luxury kitchen or bathroom.  We look forward to your visit soon!

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Kitchen remodeling? Why choose us.

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Kitchen Remodeling

Quality • Experience • Unique Design

The heart of the home is the kitchen, and the heart of a kitchen remodel is integration. Beginning in the design phase, aesthetics must harmonize with functionality, design align with budget and product selection complement design. Whether you need kitchen remodeling, bathroom renovation, custom stonework or whole apartment or home remodel we can easily handle. Our team of licensed electricians, plumbers, carpenters, painters and tile installers will transform your space according to specify design.

Professionalism is our top Priority. We take care of our clients and want them to feel safe. We understand that the renovation process can be overwhelming, therefore we want to create a joyful experience for our clients.

  • 100% Customer Satisfaction
  • Licensed & Insured
  • Fair Price & Quality Guarantee

Absolute Kitchen & Granite recommend choosing your contractor wisely instead of switching during the kitchen remodeling process which leads to higher expenses.

ABSOLUTE KITCHEN & GRANITE OFFERS

We are dedicated to provide the highest quality services within home interior renovations, entire apartment remodels, kitchen remodeling, quality cabinets, cutting-edge designs, and luxurious custom stonework.

  • Innovative Designs
  • Town Permits/ Approvals
  • Demolition, Paint & Plaster
  • Flooring, Electric & Plumbing
  • Supply & Installation of Cabinets, Counters, and Tiles
  • Stone Selection & Fabrication
  • Delivery in the Tri-State Area
  • 100% guaranteed return on investment

Cabinet Lines

Semicustom • Fullycustom • Luxury Custom & Modern German Cabinetry

candlelight cabinetrysignature cabinetsbauformat cabinets

Modern kitchen with gold influence

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A VIBE OF LUXURY IS ARISING WITH GOLD STATEMENT MODERN KITCHEN DESIGNS

The heart of our homes is mainly considered as functionally room, but the latest Interior design trends emerged significant changes in Kitchen design. Traditional Stainless Steel appliances and accessories are replaced by warm metallic features. Gold and Bronze handles, faucets, islands or cabinets create an incredible “WOW- Effect”. Gold elements induce a luxurious and aristocratic image, which makes a modern white kitchen pop.

The metallic theme suits splendidly with modern kitchen cabinets. We recommend central islands or cabinetry covered in metallic sleek plain surfaces mixed with white marble, quartz or quartzite countertops.

Absolute Kitchen and Granite offers matching countertops:

  • Marble countertops: Arabescato Calacatta, Arabescato Carrara, Bianco Venatino, Botticino Fiorito, Calacatta Gold, Carrara White, Crystal White, Greecian White, Statuario Classico, Thassos White or Venetian White
  • Quartz countertops from Caesarstone, Silestone, Cambria, Premium Natural Quartz, Zodiaq, PentalQuartz, Quartz Master, Lapitec and Compac
  • Quartzite countertops: Golden Macauba, Super White, Super White 2, Luce Di Luna and White Moon

Or have a look at all Countertops we provide.

Additionally we offer premium quality cabinets from Candlelight Cabinetry, Signature Custom Cabinetry and Bauformat Kuechen. Choose from a variety of colors, door styles and finish options. Further we provide Semi Custom, Fully Custom, Luxury Custom & Modern German Cabinetry.

 

Get more inspiration from our social media accounts:

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/marleneabsolutekitchen/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/absolutekitchenandganite/

Youtube:https://youtu.be/KSWK8mGWSVU

Quartz. Trending quartz.

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Quartz

As you will see more and more people are turning to Quartz countertops vs. Granite/Marble, but why you ask? Simple as stated previously:

“Quartz is a man made product which contains crushed quartz mixed with resin in a ratio of 93% quartz to 7% resin. They are manufactured in a variety of different patterns and colors.  Also, there are numerous suppliers for Quartz Countertops. Quartz a maintenance free product that is scratch and stain resistant. It is non-porous and does not require any sealing.”

This saves you time and money spent on getting your countertops sealed every 6 months- a year. You might be saying to yourself so why would any one get any other material to put in the kitchen? Sometimes the look of natural material is just unparalleled to that of Quartz so it really has to deal with what look you are trying to achieve with your kitchen. And some people are scared of price tags while changing up the look of their kitchen. Which is normal, but here’s the catch:

Quartz Countertops

You spend lets say 2k on a Gramote counter top as opposed to say 2.5k-3k on a Quartz. Did you really save however? Have you forgotten the maintenance that comes with owning a Granite countertop? The money spent in sealing it every so often as well as buying the proper cleaning products for it will eventually catch up to the Quartz countertops. (Even the marble-look Quartz colors)

Quartz Countertops Colors – What are the most popular?

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QUARTZ COUNTERTOPS COLORS

“What are the most popular quartz countertops colors?”

We’ve done the homework for you!  Are you curious? Do you wonder as you plan out your renovation what the popular choices are for quartz counter tops these days?  Do the homeowners of New Jersey, especially here in the Monmouth County area purchase quartz for there new countertops?  The answer is a big “YES”.  Here in our brand new Colts Neck showroom the majority of our clients are from Holmdel, Marlboro, Howell, Colts Neck, and other surrounding local towns.  They especially lean toward purchasing quartz materials because these products do not require as much TLC as natural stone materials do.  Quartz countertops are very popular from Cambria, Silestone, Ceasarstone, and MSI International.

Even though granite-looking quartz materials still flood the market in huge numbers, quartz colors that simulate natural marble have taken the lead for sometime now. Contrast is taking center stage in designs, and black and white kitchens are all the rage.

To compliment cabinets such as matte blacks and the ever-lasting white cabinets consumers have been looking toward contrasting quartz colors, such as the ones being offered from Cambria USA.  They have several composed design palettes with this one being profiled at the top of their list:

Opposites Attract

 White Cliff, Charston, Menai & Torquay are perfect compliments to those contrasting pops of colored cabinetry and shelving we see entering the market place.

Silestone our next contender certainly knows quartz, offering us the:

Eternal Series

 Calacatta Gold, Statuario, Charcoal Soapstone and the brand new Marquina.

Next, in the line up we have Ceasarstone, another major player in the big league of quartz counter tops.  Remaining true to the classics with their collection, they’ve launched:

Classic

 Rugged Concrete, Montblanc, Moorland Fog and Turbine Grey.

Last but not least, we offer “Q” from MSI International, another optimal quartz product for your needs, a must see palette:

Natural Stone Look

 Blanca Arabescato, Calacatta Laza, Carrara Caldia & Carrara Marmi.

Contemporary Kitchen Trends for 2017

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Kitchen Trends & Thoughts

Your kitchen says a lot about your style. There are many elements that work together to create your look. You must consider colors, finishes and materials used. Your countertop and backsplash are two kitchen focal points that greatly impact your kitchen décor. Don’t let your outdated countertops impact your kitchen. There are plenty of great kitchen trends in 2017 that can easily update your look for years to come.

The countertop is probably the space you use most in the kitchen. From a quick breakfast to preparing a dinner for all, your countertop must not only look great but be functional. The trends in countertop material for the new year create that perfect mix of easy to use and beautiful décor.

In 2017, trendy décor depends on the materials used. If you’re looking to update your kitchen with a long-lasting material, natural stone is a great choice. Choose classic marble countertops, which are great for those who love to bake. Be aware of the maintenance that comes with any natural stone countertop. The exact type of care varies by material, but the stone should be sealed and cleaned regularly.

Quartz is definitely a trend that’s catching up with the ever popular granite. Homeowners love engineered stone countertops because they’re durable, which also means that they’re resilient against scratches, stains and heat. An added bonus is that they require very little maintenance.

For the home chef, having a butcher block countertop is a dream amenity. Not only do they give a rustic, farmhouse look to the kitchen, but they are extremely functional. They allow the cook to cut, chop and dice directly on the countertop. As natural elements in the home is a hot trend in 2017, wood and butcher block countertops are a great choice for the kitchen. Price can vary depending on the material you choose. From dark walnut to sustainable bamboo, you can choose the right material to match your style and budget.

No matter which you are thinking about going with always check websites that allow you to view what colors are tending and what styles are happening right now. You don’t know to invest in a kitchen that you will end up disliking. Always think thoroughly when creating your new home space. And make sure you love it!

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Top 10 Kitchen Design Trends 2017

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Top 10 Kitchen Design Trends 2017

1) Do you dare to bare it all?

Open shelving is one of the top trends that we keep seeing. If you’re brave enough to go for it open shelving is an easy way to make your kitchen appear larger than it is. It’s also a great option if you can’t do any real renovations, just take off a few cabinet doors and now you can showcase all of your amazing dishware (wine glasses) that is hiding behind your cabinets.

 

2) Fifty Shades of Gray…(Cabinets)

We all know that an all-white kitchen will always be in trend but gray is coming in HOT. Is it just me or does it seem that you can’t go wrong with gray anything? While It seems like gray can be straightforward there are many different hues to choose from. Whether its light or dark, warm or cool, it’s important to choose the right hue for you.

 

3) Dare to go dark

Dark kitchen

Whether it’s black on black, contrasting with marble, matte, or lacquered we say go for it! More people are opting for the black stainless steel finish in appliances as well. Besides the sophistication and timeless element, it brings to your kitchen design its smudge-proof and fingerprint-proof finish adds 10 points for us.

 

4) Mixing Metals

Gold trim

In case you haven’t caught on..we are no longer sticking to one metal in a space. Pairing coppers with golds and brasses with silvers is an easy way to create aesthetic layers and add depth to your space. My advice is choosing a dominant metal and then select one or two metal accents to complete the look.

P.S.: changing your hardware is the easiest way to give your cabinetry a quick and affordable facelift

5) No more “matchy-matchy”

Commitment issues? Don’t worry you don’t have to decide between the two colors you are obsessing over..you can do both! Mixing up colors in your kitchen cabinets is what everyone’s doing. Whether your upper cabinets are white and your lower cabinets are gray, or you change the color of your island to that navy blue you can’t stop going back to.

5) Organic Materials

We are all about incorporating natural elements this year! (Which can bring some seriously good vibes to your kitchen) It’s inviting, warm, textural and it looks great with pretty much any style or aesthetic.

6) Time to get organized

Is there a better feeling than walking into a clean, organized, no clutter – there is a spot for everything kitchen? I didn’t think so. Customizing your cabinetry to fit your needs is what everyone’s doing. Deep drawers, revolving corner trays, swing-out trays, spice / utensil / cutlery organizers, and small appliance garage and drawers. Get ready to feel relaxed, at peace, and calm.

 

7) Coffee is the real MVP

Let’s face it, we all can’t be bothered until we had our coffee. Incorporating a coffee station in your kitchen will make your hectic morning trying to leave for work 100x better and impressing your friends when they come over is a bonus too. You can hide your station behind doors or keep everything exposed creating a design element in your space.

8) Say yes to color

 

Is it just me or is green and blue showing up more and more. There are many ways to incorporate color in your kitchen. You can dive in and opt for color in the cabinetry, or even just painting a wall, colorful backsplash or bar stools. You can never go wrong with adding greenery- ferns, potted plants, and herbs in your space.

If you’re thinking about going for it these greens are on trend: emerald green, Kelly green, blue-ish greens such as mint green and deep teal.

If you’re leaning more towards blue: grayish blues that pair well with gray, pale yet energetic turquoise blues that pair well with cool whites or darker accents of teal, denim-inspired blues, and purplish blues

9) Shapes are here to stay

It’s not just about rectangles anymore, tiles in unusual patterns add a punch of personality to your space. From teeny tiny to oversized, sleek ceramic to rough terra cotta, hexagons are popping up all over. You can highlight your shape with a contrasting grout color, mix and match color tiles, or opt for the safe white. Either way you won’t be sorry!

Marble Countertops and Sealing

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All About Marble Countertops & Sealing

I’ve always loved white marble countertops they are bright, elegant, add character. They can also be one of the cheapest stone solutions if you choose Carrara marble, making them a great choice if you’re on a budget. However, many people are afraid of them due to the perception that they are high maintenance. This reputation is only partially deserved, and I want to share with you all the knowledge I’ve gathered over the years so that you will feel much more confident of going this direction if it appeals to you.

It’s good to know what marble is in order to understand how it behaves. It’s a metamorphic stone, which is formed when sediment crystallizes under great heat or pressure to form hard rock. Marble is not the hardest of these stones, however, making it porous and therefore susceptible to staining. Marble is also formed out of calcium carbonate, giving it a chemical structure that reacts easily with acids and leads to etching on the surface. Due to all this, marble requires some maintenance to keep it pristine.

There are two main types of finish you can get, but I would recommend a “honed” finish as it is the easiest wearing.

  • Honed Finish– Created by sanding the surface so that it has a soft, matte finish, honed marble won’t show scratches as much, shows the stone off as a little less bright and is more susceptible to staining as the pores are open. Sealing is, therefore the solution.
  • Polished Finish– Polished to a shiny exterior, this finish won’t stain as easily but it can scratch and etch. Polished surfaces are shiny and bright, but they will be worn down in time. If you prefer the worn look, go right for honed and skip the polished.

Does Marble Countertops Need To Be Sealed?

Yes. Because unpolished or honed marble has open pores, it is important to seal it if you want to limit stains over time. This can be done professionally at the beginning and then as a DIY in an ongoing fashion. While many people have commented that they have never felt the need to do this, it’s not hard.

Kitchen countertop

How to seal it:

  • Spray the counter with a marble cleaner and buff dry with a soft cloth. This will remove any impurities from the surface of the marble that may interfere with the sealing process.
  • Pour some marble sealer into an open-mouthed container large enough to dip your paintbrush into. Turn on a fan or open a window while you do this; marble sealers frequently have high amounts of VOCs and can smell overwhelming.3
  • Dip the foam paintbrush into the sealer and paint it onto the counter with slightly overlapping strokes. Make sure to get all areas of the marble, including the edge, area around the sink and the backsplash. Let the sealer sit undisturbed for 10 minutes.
  • Buff away the excess sealer with a clean, dry cloth. Use a circular motion and keep rubbing the marble until it is dry and not tacky to the touch. Excess sealer could mar the finish of the stone, so keep buffing until it is completely removed.

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