Kitchen Design News

Giving Your Kitchen a Modern Look

2011-01-12T21:11:00.001-05:00

New Cabinet Options That Add the Wow Factor to Any Kitchen

Are you ready to remodel your tired, outdated kitchen? Your first decision is to determine the look you want in your new kitchen. Current trends are towards a more modern, lighter, more open look. Kitchens have moved into the mainstream in recent years. No longer are they simply a place to cook, the kitchen has become the hub and communication center of the home. More space is needed. Better organization is key to utilizing work areas to get more “bang for your buck.”

The two most modern looks for the kitchen involve either full overlay cabinets or European cabinets. Each have their advantages and disadvantages, but both will give a distinctive modern look with clean lines and varied options for finish and functionality.

A full overlay cabinet has doors and drawer fronts that completely cover the face frame of the cabinet. This is currently the most sought after look in the kitchens of the twenty-first century. Probably ninety percent of cabinet offerings are full overlay. Wood options are numerous and come in both common and more exotic species with both rustic and regular finish selections. Wood species should be selected to fit the overall theme of your home and must contrast with your other design surfaces such as hard wood floors, ceramic tile, etc.

Since doors and drawer fronts cover most of the face frame of the cabinet, special considerations must be taken into account in the design process to ensure doors open wide enough (more than 90 degrees) to allow pullouts to work. Also, if baseboard molding in being used, filler between the end cabinets and the wall will ensure space is planned for the baseboard to return without impeding the operation of doors and drawers.

European cabinets differ from most other full overlay cabinets, in that, while the doors and drawers also completely cover the cabinet, the box itself has no face frame. European cabinets usually have a very distinct modern look and are available in finishes other than traditional woods. High gloss, melamine surfaces, and modern detailing enable your design to have an ultramodern or retro look. European cabinets usually do not utilize moldings and are often used in condos, town homes, and residential designs with a modern bent.

Several limitations should be considered in choosing European cabinets. Installation is more difficult because of the lack of a face frame. Be sure the installer you choose has experience in the installation of this type of cabinet. Special consideration in the design process must be made to allow for doors to open and close properly. Internal organization items may be limited because there is no face frame to which they can be attached. Be sure that exposed ends are finished and that the finish matches the fronts. May European cabinet makers will use a matte finish on the sides of cabinets. The lack of a face frame while offering greater access to space means the cabinet is not quite as strong as other construction methods.

While both full over lay and European cabinet options will give your kitchen an exciting new look, be sure to think through the various selections and options. Make sure the cabinetry you choose will enhance and match the style of your house. The full overlay option can match any style home, while the European style cabinet has a limited appeal. If you plan to use molding or want extensive organizational features you may also want to opt for the full overlay cabinets with a face frame. If you like an extremely modern look, do not plan on extensive moldings or organizational features, then the European style may be your best option.

Redesigning your kitchen will not only add value to your home, but will give you many hours of pleasure and functionality. Today’s kitchen cabinet options make both remodeling or new construction exciting and fulfilling. Giving yourself adequate time to make decisions and thinking through your design choices will give you a kitchen of your dreams.

Creating an Outdoor Kitchen Space

2009-07-06T19:11:00.002-04:00

Among the hottest ideas for sprucing up your home and property is the addition of an outdoor kitchen and living space. While not inexpensive, this wonderful outdoor area can add beauty, functionality, and grace to your home, and hours of enjoyment, whether it is a simply cookout or large family get together. A step-by-step process to achieving this wonderful dream will make the project an easy goal to attain.
First, plan carefully to pick the best location for the new living space.

Considerations like plumbing, electrical and position relative to other areas are important. Give careful thought to where you place your new outdoor space, because like adding a room to your home, it cannot be easily moved later. If you plan a true outside kitchen space with a sink and electrical hookup, you will need to locate near existing utilities and water lines. Consulting a professional designer will prove invaluable at the onset of the project.

Another consideration is available space. If your neighbors are near and the space is small think about placing your outdoor living space where you can enjoy the most privacy. Think about the relative closeness or distance of the outdoor kitchen to the indoor, and the positives and negatives associated with each. How will your space look to your neighbors, from inside the house, and from the street are also important points. Be sure the overall size is relative to your house as well. A space that is too large for your house and property can seriously hurt resale and curb appeal.

Second, will your outdoor area connect to the house or be freestanding? Obviously, connecting to the house has its advantages. It will be cheaper to use an existing structure to connect the space, and existing walls will also buffer the space from wind and weather. Attaching to the house means you will need to match the design and materials of the new area to the existing, which may or may not be an easy project.
A separate area away from the house adds more of a retreat feel to your outings. It becomes, in a sense, a hideaway and gives a nice ambiance to your gatherings, but may be less convenient. With or without a separate structure the outdoor kitchen becomes a magnet to family and friends and provides a relatively inexpensive get-away for relaxation.

The outdoor kitchen allows you to prepare food, cook, and even clean up without missing out on all the fun. Consideration to the layout for the cooking area, prep area, etc. can encourage others to join in the process without missing the activities.

Another important consideration is traffic flow. Make sure the cooking area is not in the path of traffic to and from the house, or near where sports and other activities are happening. The first step in your design should entail a rough outline for cooking, serving, drinks, socializing, and deciding how these areas should be outlined. Outlining or defining your outdoor space can be as simple as using pavers or small shrubs, but the importance of giving purpose to space will prove invaluable when you have a large party or gathering. Landscaping, topography, and space management can turn your project into the dream area you have always wanted.

The availability of cabinetry and appliances for use outside has fueled outdoor kitchens into one of the hottest trending in recent years. A variety of stainless steel cabinets allows for versatility of design and a wonderful look. Special weatherproof appliances provide all of the conveniences of an indoor kitchen as well. Again, it is a good idea to work with an outdoor kitchen designer, an architect, and landscape designer to get the most out of your available space.

A wide variety of appliance options include much more than the conventional grill. Infrared technology, ovens, including smoker, clay, and conventional, dishwashers, refrigerators, ice makers, and beer dispensers are just a few of the new innovations to make outdoor living convenient and fun. Weather resistant cabinetry, in conventional 3”increments, also provides as many options as indoor cabinets, and with all the bells and whistles. A competent kitchen designer can help you with the selections that best suit your needs.

Finally, while the outdoor space will provide many hours of enjoyment and fun for family and friends, the more you plan before construction begins, the happier you will be with the final product. Outdoor living space will add much to your home and family time, and returns on your investment will continue for many years to come.

How to Choose a New Kitchen Counter top

2009-06-28T23:12:00.000-04:00

As a designer I constantly speak with customers who want to redo their kitchen into an area that is more pleasing to the eye, and also more useful. In the average home the kitchen has become the most important room in the house. Family interactions and activities center here, while mom and dad prepare meals, clean up, or just simply sit to talk.

Where does one start with this process of replacing the kitchen counter tops? What materials are available? Can I get the look I want? Is there something that will fit within my budget that looks nice and meets my needs? A good kitchen designer at your local home improvement store can answer all of these questions. We help people make these choices every day.

The first thing you should do before visiting your local design center is to think about your current counter tops. What do you like most about them? What do you dislike most? It is important to understand that each material has distinct characteristics. You should work towards improving the aspects that you least enjoy about your present counter tops.

Knowing the characteristics of each product before you go to the home improvement store will save you time, and help the designer focus on the material that will be right for your home.
Take note of each of the most common materials used today. Think about the good and not-so-good points of each. Which material best meets your needs?

Granite
Granite is a natural substance mined from the earth in most countries of the world. Each piece is distinctive and no two pieces are identical. Granite is taken raw from the earth and polished much like a diamond.
Granite counter tops, while very popular, are not for everyone. Color and pattern can be very inconsistent. Inconsistency of pattern while attractive to some is not attractive to others. If you like an earthy, natural look, granite may be an option for your kitchen.
Granite will usually have seams located somewhere in the counter tops. The weight of the material and the ability of fabricators to carry it into your kitchen determine the size of pieces and presence or absence of seams.

Several well known companies like Sensa offer up to a 10-year limited warranty. The product has a wide selection of colors and is sold by the square foot. Backsplash is included in the square foot computation.

The eased edge is usually standard, with other edge profiles such as ogee, bullnose, or bevel, available for an additional charge.
Caution: Granite is a porous substance and can stain. It is recommended that granite be sealed at least three times per year to reduce staining. Also, pitting can occur if spills such as orange juice are left unattended for a period of time.

Quartz
Often called "man-made granite," Quartz has all the benefits of real granite without any of the negatives. Quartz is very consistent in pattern and color and is hard enough to be used as a cutting board and can handle hot items on its surface. Unlike natural granite, Quartz does not need to be sealed and will not stain with normal use. Seaming will be very similar to granite.

Quartz, sold by companies under names like Cambria and Silestone, usually carries a 15-year limited warranty. The product has a wide selection of colors and is sold by the square foot. Backsplash is included in the square foot computation.

The eased edge is usually standard, with other edge profiles such as ogee, bullnose, or bevel, available for an additional charge. Many quartz products often include a free 18-guage stainless steel sink.
Note of importance: Neither granite or Quartz have the mitered corner seam that is characteristic of laminate products.

Acrylic Counter tops
Acrylic counter tops are popular because of the ease in cleaning and maintenance. With many colors available, it is often used in both kitchens and bathrooms. Among the key selling features are its "no visible seam" and the capability of integrating the sink directly into the counter top. Parents with children love this product and come back to it again and again.

The best known brands of acrylic counter tops are produced by DuPont and LG, under the trade names of Corian and HiMac, respectively. Each product has a wide array of colors and styles, with a variety of edge treatments. The eased edge is usually standard, with other edge profiles such as ogee, bullnose, or bevel, available for an additional charge. Both Corian and HiMacs carry a 10- year limited warranty. The products are sold by the square foot. Backsplash is included in the square foot computation.

Caution: Acrylic products can scratch or scorch. Scratches or burns usually can be removed with mild abrasives such as Comet or Ajax.

Post form laminates
The most commonly used counter top material, post-form laminates come in hundreds of colors and finishes and is the least expensive option for redoing kitchen counter tops.

Laminates are sold per linear foot, making laminate cost about one-third the cost of any of the solid surface options. New laminate options by DeepStar and Sedona are much tougher and resist scratching more than previous product offerings. They both give a textured finish to laminate.

Post form laminates can only accommodate top mount sinks and lengths over 12 feet will have additional seams. Use of a non-stock color may result in customers purchasing product in 8', 10’, and 12' sections to account for waste. The backsplash comes included in the price.

The waterfall edge is usually standard, with other edge profiles available for an additional charge. The Euro-round and Euro-square edge profiles will shorten the backsplash approximately ¼" and provide a nice look by wrapping the laminate under the front edge.

Caution: Laminates will always have the corner mitered seams and are subject to scratches and scorching. When damaged, laminate counter tops are not repairable.

Conclusion
New counter tops can not only improve the look of your kitchen, but add value to your house. Choosing a solid surface counter top will add immediate value, and repay your investment within five years. An excellent video about how to choose a counter top is available at HomeGuide123.

Be sure to take the measurements of existing counter tops before you go shopping so the kitchen designer can give you an estimate. Pick a material and color you like, and your kitchen can see a dramatic change in as little as three weeks.

Kitchen Design on a Budget: How to get the most bang for your buck in a small kitchen

2009-06-05T18:42:00.000-04:00

Remodeling the smaller kitchen comes with its own unique considerations. While getting the most out of usable space is always at the forefront of a design, it is particularly important when the space is small and offers no possibility for expansion. Even before you enlist the services of a contractor or designer, give some thought to what you want in your space before you start. Do not allow anyone to rush you into snap decisions. Always remember that the more time you put into planning on the front end, the happier you will be with the final product.

The kitchen is the most used room in the house these days. It is the hub of family life and its importance to communication, fellowship, and being together ranks as high in importance as the preparation of meals, storing food, utensils, plates, silverware, etc. With limited space, getting the most out of what you have is vital for convenience and storage.

As with any project, cost is a major concern in addition to space. Think clearly about what you will need, and use, and if it is the best solution for your needs. Do not be talked into bells and whistles that you do not need and, which are often overpriced. Remember that just because something looks good does not mean it is useful. One favorite example is a corner cabinet with a lazy Susan. It looks like a wonderful idea, but the reality is that you should have a particular need for this very pricey add on. For use with pots and pans it is a terrible idea because handles interfere with it working properly. As an easy access for cooking condiments such as oils, flour, meal, spices, it is a much more useful add on. The other question is that if you have two corners---do you need two Lazy Susans? Never go to the designer without a plan. It is similar to going to the grocery store to shop when you are really hungry. You will come home with lots of things you can do without.

So, with space limitations and cost concerns start with the basics: storage, prep, and clean up. A well designed kitchen will accommodate these functions. Start with the sink area. Unless you want to increase costs, leave the sink in the same area where it is now. Moving plumbing is expensive. An important way to tell if your kitchen designer knows what he or she is doing will come in discussing the clean up area. A good designer will always ask (1).Who is the main cook in the family; (2). Is the main cook right handed or left handed. Why are these important? If the designer just assumed the woman is the main cook, he/she may be too traditional and not open to new ideas. Many of today’s families have reversed roles with the husband as the main cook. The right-handed or left handed question determines where the dishwasher is placed. If you are right handed and the dishwasher is on the left, then to load your machine from the sink you will be forced to make a complete body turn each time you load an item, thus increasing your work. Working smarter and not harder should be the goal of your design.

Ease of movement and convenience should be the key to a good kitchen design. If possible, the three most used areas, the refrigerator, stove, and sink should form a work triangle. (Note: this idea may not be practical if the kitchen has an island.) The work triangle saves steps when preparing food and cleaning up, and makes work convenient. In addition, creating work centers, if space allows, will permit more than one person to help with preparation. Separating the microwave and stove in a small area will also allow for multiple users to help with preparation. Do not make the mistake of adding an island if the space will not allow it. A minimum of 42” of walk space should be allowed for walking space around the island (48” is preferred). Nothing makes a kitchen look smaller or more cramped than more cabinetry than the space needs.

Locating cabinets for silverware, china, and glassware near the dishwasher minimizes the work when unloading the dishwasher. When you have a drawing in hand for your new kitchen, as a last step, decide where everything will be placed and how you use it. Consider how much walking will be necessary to retrieve the things you need with minimal effort.

Maximize counter space by placing your tall units together such as the refrigerator, oven cabinet, and pantry in one section. Not only does this give the most counter space it also allows for a more open kitchen and gives the illusion of more space.

Choose appliances carefully for both space and convenience. Most people are amazed at how quickly space disappears when you take out 36” for a refrigerator, 30” for a range, 36” for a sink cabinet. As a designer I am often asked—What did you do with all my space? I of course did nothing. Space is what it is, and short of tearing out walls and adding extensions, you cannot get five pounds of sugar in a two pound sack! Plan carefully.

In small spaces consider your finish selections carefully. Contrast is key to, again, giving the allusion of more space. If your flooring will be medium to dark, then go shades lighter with your cabinets, and then step back to lighter counter tops. If the reverse is true, follow the same pattern of light and dark to add contrast.

Consider quartz counter tops which allow you to under mount your sink again lessening the impact of the sink’s presence in the room. In small spaces the rule is to minimize in order to maximize the appearance of space.

On the positive side, while your kitchen may not be large, it allows multiple opportunities to be more creative. How you plan for the use of your space can have the same wow affect as a much larger kitchen. Deciding how you will organize can make the smaller kitchen a dream to work in, and provide years of enjoyment for both the main cook and the family.

Giving Your Kitchen a Modern Look:New Cabinet Options That Add the Wow Factor to Any Kitchen

2009-05-05T21:55:00.000-04:00

Are you ready to remodel your tired, outdated kitchen? Your first decision is to determine the look you want in your new kitchen. Current trends are towards a more modern, lighter, more open look. Kitchens have moved into the mainstream in recent years. No longer are they simply a place to cook, the kitchen has become the hub and communication center of the home. More space is needed. Better organization is key to utilizing work areas to get more “bang for your buck.”

The two most modern looks for the kitchen involve either full overlay cabinets or European cabinets. Each have their advantages and disadvantages, but both will give a distinctive modern look with clean lines and varied options for finish and functionality.

A full overlay cabinet has doors and drawer fronts that completely cover the face frame of the cabinet. This is currently the most sought after look in the kitchens of the twenty-first century. Probably ninety percent of cabinet offerings are full overlay. Wood options are numerous and come in both common and more exotic species with both rustic and regular finish selections. Wood species should be selected to fit the overall theme of your home and must contrast with your other design surfaces such as hard wood floors, ceramic tile, etc.

Since doors and drawer fronts cover most of the face frame of the cabinet, special considerations must be taken into account in the design process to ensure doors open wide enough (more than 90 degrees) to allow pullouts to work. Also, if baseboard molding in being used, filler between the end cabinets and the wall will ensure space is planned for the baseboard to return without impeding the operation of doors and drawers.

European cabinets differ from most other full overlay cabinets, in that, while the doors and drawers also completely cover the cabinet, the box itself has no face frame. European cabinets usually have a very distinct modern look and are available in finishes other than traditional woods. High gloss, melamine surfaces, and modern detailing enable your design to have an ultramodern or retro look. European cabinets usually do not utilize moldings and are often used in condos, townhomes, and residential designs with a modern bent.

Several limitations should be considered in choosing European cabinets. Installation is more difficult because of the lack of a face frame. Be sure the installer you choose has experience in the installation of this type of cabinet. Special consideration in the design process must be made to allow for doors to open and close properly. Internal organization items may be limited because there is no face frame to which they can be attached. Be sure that exposed ends are finished and that the finish matches the fronts. May European cabinet makers will use a matte finish on the sides of cabinets. The lack of a face frame while offering greater access to space means the cabinet is not quite as strong as other construction methods.

While both full over lay and European cabinet options will give your kitchen an exciting new look, be sure to think through the various selections and options. Make sure the cabinetry you choose will enhance and match the style of your house. The full overlay option can match any style home, while the European style cabinet has a limited appeal. If you plan to use molding or want extensive organizational features you may also want to opt for the full overlay cabinets with a face frame. If you like an extremely modern look, do not plan on extensive moldings or organizational features, then the European style may be your best option.

Redesigning your kitchen will not only add value to your home, but will give you many hours of pleasure and functionality. Today’s kitchen cabinet options make both remodeling or new construction exciting and fulfilling. Giving yourself adequate time to make decisions and thinking through your design choices will give you a kitchen of your dreams.

Green Ideas to Increase Environmental Awareness in Your New Kitchen

2009-01-21T08:52:00.000-05:00

A well designed kitchen can add years of beauty and joy to family life. Yet of all the rooms in the home, the kitchen is the single largest user of energy. The latest figures from the U. S. Department of Energy confirm that 41.5 % of a home’s energy consumption comes from kitchen lighting and appliances, not including heating and cooling the space or water heaters. This means what you do in a kitchen remodel can have a major effect on the expense of running your home.

Remodeling provides a great opportunity to improve the home’s performance in energy consumption. Every project should reflect changes in energy efficiency, environment impact, and health and accessibility considerations, in order to return not only cost savings, but also comfort, and peace of mind.

What things are important in considering an environmentally responsible kitchen? These ideas are not all inclusive, but may well provide a starting point for those interested in having a “green” kitchen.

Flooring

First, consider the most environmentally friendly flooring available. The best choice is either Bamboo, cork, or eucalyptus. All three mature more rapidly, usually in about half the time of hardwoods. All three options are gaining in popularity and install easily. Cork may not be the best choice if you have animals in the house because their nails may damage the surface, but from the standpoint of environmental sensitivity, all three are exceptional, and offer great design options.

Cabinets

Green cabinet offerings have increased in recent years and even resurfacing or re-facing offer environmentally friendly options. Cabinets made of particleboard or fiberboard, contain urea formaldehyde and are susceptible to moisture. It is now possible to seal these materials using low-Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC). These compounds are available in paint, stain, or even laminating material to seal the substrates.

If purchasing new cabinets, several green options are also available. Solid wood cabinets have low-VOC emissions. Thermofoil and laminate cabinets seal in VOCs found in the substrates. New materials such as wheatboard, strawboard, plant stems, and other sustainable binders provide renewable resources for areas not affected by water. While most cabinet companies carry a green seal, be sure to look beyond the stamp to ensure that in materials, emissions, and processes, the cabinets are really “green” and not simple a “green wash”.

In choosing cabinets, consider installing a recycling center, to make recycling more manageable. Cabinets that serve as a recycling center provide a neat, hidden, and unobtrusive way to help the environment.

Countertops

Various countertop offerings promise to give “green” design some great new looks. Most quartz products lay claim to being “green” because they use leftover particulates left over from the granite process. One quartz product is actually LEEDS certified and offer green approved points to any LEEDS certification process.

Stained concrete is a new contender in environmentally friendly products for countertops and back splashes. Non-toxic, concrete can be tinted with natural pigments, replacing surface applied stains, and their negative effect on the environment. As with any solid surface product, seaming should be strategically placed away from water.

Lighting

Kitchens are usually the darkest room in the house. If possible make maximum use of natural light by moving cabinets back from the window sills to allow more light into the room. Use can lights to spot light work stations and florescent lights over the sink for greater visibility.

Appliances

Appliances are a major energy consumer in the home. Regardless of whether you are buying a refrigerator, range, or dishwasher, never purchase an appliance without the Energy Star rating, which will save 10-50% of the energy cost for that appliance.

Among the many new range options is induction cooking. Induction is much more efficient than either electric or gas, in fact, it is almost 90% more efficient that either. With induction a small amount of electricity produces a magnetic field, which heats the cookware, and not the stove top. Less heat is wasted and the food cooks faster, saving both time and energy. While the induction cook top carries a premium price, in the future the cost should come down as availability increases.

Every person, whether remodeling or building, should definitely consider adding “green” elements to their kitchen, both for the cost savings in energy, and the positive effect on the environment. Initial costs may be greater than regular appliances, but the return on investment will be great both financially and personally.

Bathroom remodeling ideas: Turning your master bath into a spa

2009-01-18T10:39:00.000-05:00

Have you ever stayed in a wonderful resort with a luxurious bath with a large walk-in shower and wonderful Jacuzzi tub? Wouldn’t it be wonderful to have your own personal spa-type bath? Not only will it make your master bath the center of attention, but will add to the value and look of your home. Consider some simply tips to adding luxury to your bath without breaking the bank.
The major consideration in any bath remodel is space. Older homes suffer from the master bath being closet size, and give new meaning to the old term “water closet.” Today, we see the master bath in design magazines as a big, luxurious room, with ample space and beautiful design. Therefore, every bathroom remodel should start with considering if there is hidden space that can be incorporated to make the bathroom larger. What is on the other side of the walls adjacent to the bath? Is it possible to add on to the house and expand the bath outward? While moving walls and adding to the structure are expensive, the new look and space will certainly increase appeal and value. While I might not go to such great lengths in planning to sale a house, if I planned to remain in the house and/or resale in five years, I would definitely consider these options.
For such extensive remodels, you will definitely need an architect to draw plans, and you should carefully choose the contractor to make the changes. Be sure to get a permit for the work, and do your due diligence in checking out the contractor. Always check references and his rating with the Better Business Bureau.
To attain a spa like feel in the bath, consider extensive ceramic tile work. Pick warm colors and use some design techniques to add style. Simply changing the direction of the tile can add a new dimension. Small design details can add much to the look and offer many decorator options. If replacing windows, always consider larger rather than small windows, and make every allowance for natural light. Earth tones are a beautiful way to give your new bath an earthy, natural feel.
Consider adding steam to your shower set up and always think ahead about handicap accessibility. Having a self contained shower that allows for a wheel chair is worth doing. It is always cheaper to do it now rather than later. Replace commodes with comfort height fixtures and replace cabinetry with a new look and material. A master with a modern vanity and counter tops with either undermount sinks or the new vessel sinks will make the bathroom pop. Consider using as much “green” materials as possible and recycle old cabinetry and fixtures by donating them to Goodwill or other charities. The tax receipt helps reduce your investment
If ceramic tiles are too cold for you, consider the new heating grids that are installed with the tile, providing warmth and making tile a better option. It might also be worth considering the new heated towel bars which heat your towels, and are a nice touch to your new spa-like bath.
Make the shower area as open as possible by incorporating the new clear blocks as a way to retain some privacy, while giving more light to the inside of the shower. Be sure to add a seating area in the shower to sit and enjoy the steam, or simply relax to mediate as you enjoy your new retreat.
While not cheap, adding a spa-like atmosphere to your main bath is both appealing and a good investment. The rule of thumb is that the master is one of two areas where investments will ultimately pay off in a nice return. Be sure to incorporate an interior designer into your planning to help with color, style, and design considerations. Their services are invaluable if you are to get the look you want.

The Hot Trend with Stainless Steel Appliances —Final touches will make your kitchen a showplace

2009-01-18T09:37:00.000-05:00

As you plan your ideal kitchen you soon realize there are thousands of choices, not only in cabinets and countertops, but in fixtures and appliances as well. We have more choices today than ever and making the right decisions can be daunting, even to a seasoned veteran. As a designer I have almost reduced adults to tears as we discussed the many options, colors, and products.

As with anything else, the devil is always in the details and those last few pieces will either make or break the look in your new kitchen. What kind of appliances should I choose? I like the look of stainless steel, but what are the negatives? Should my faucet match my appliances, my sink, or be totally different? All of these decisions can prove to be mind numbing. Let’s discuss some practical approaches to these issues.

Stainless steel appliances- the pros and cons
Stainless steel appliances are currently all the rage. They tend to give your kitchen a sleek, clean look. Even something as simple as stainless produces a ton of different choices. Be sure to know your product. Appliances come in various grades, from high grade stainless to a painted on stainless look.

As you probably know, the major issue with stainless is finger prints. I bought my first stainless refrigerator years ago when the French door first became popular. I lived alone and yet I battled finger prints every day. I was sure my neighbors were using my refrigerator while I was away at work! With some stainless you can clean the prints and as the humidity changes more will appear. The good news is that most manufacturers now have a finger print resistant steel that all but eliminates the problem.

Stainless appliances should match

Another important issue with stainless appliances is matching your refrigerator, dishwasher, range, and microwave. Unfortunately, manufacturers rarely do an entire series in the same stainless. Look carefully before you buy to ensure the pattern is the same and that the handles on all appliances match.

Stainless appliances usually cost up to a hundred dollars more per item. Remember, you pay for the look you want and doing a little research pays off, with best prices for quality products. The life cycle for appliances has shortened dramatically in recent years. Nothing lasts as long as in the past. Paying more for a quality product will ensure that you get more “bang for your bucks.”

Where do I start in appliance selection?

The best place to start in selecting your appliances is with your refrigerator. If you want stainless your choices change with the options you choose. The French-door look, with under mount freezer and a large two door refrigerator compartment is currently very popular. Want water and ice in the door? Your options shrink dramatically. If you need counter depth, again your options diminish.

Realize that normally a refrigerator is 30” deep and your cabinets are 24” deep. A regular refrigerator will come out into the room much further than your cabinets and counter tops. This is especially problematic near a door way. Many opt for the counter depth models (24”, 27”, and 28” depths) to give a more built in look. Caution: In selecting counter depth refrigerators, be sure that ample clearance for doors opening and closing is allowed. Doors must open more than 90 degrees if slide out shelves and drawers are to work properly. If designing a new kitchen or remodel be sure the designer allows enough clearance.

Find the refrigerator that you want with the stainless steel pattern and then match the other appliances to it. All appliances should have the same decorative trims. Example: the black trim and matching handles should complement each other. While they do not need to all be by the same manufacturer, it is a nice added touch.

If you are replacing your cabinets, make sure your designer gives at least 36” (preferably 39”) for the refrigerator. Do not design a space for your current 33” refrigerator. Limiting the space will limit future choices and in addition may seriously hurt the resale of your house.

Choose an appliance color with long term appeal. We have all suffered through years with avocado green and harvest gold. These were fad choices that are sometimes hard to replace. Stainless, white, black, and bisque (to a lesser degree) are safe choices.

Matching faucets, sinks, and cabinet hardware

The first rule of decorating is not to over do any one aspect. A blend or harmony of materials makes for a warmer, more inviting look.

The sink does not necessarily need to match the appliances. Stainless sinks have distinct advantages and some disadvantages. First, never use a stainless sink that is higher than 20 gauge. The number represents the thickness the steel. 18 gauge, while more expensive, is preferable. The major advantage of a stainless sink is that it will not stain and is easily cleaned. The disadvantage is that after several years they tend to loose their sheen and look a bit dull.

Other sink options include cast iron, enamel, and composite. Cast iron sinks are extremely heavy and the only advantage is that they tend to retain heat. In a day where few people hand wash dishes, the disadvantage of the weight and difficulty to install far outweigh the advantage.

New granite composite sinks provide a nice look when under mounted with granite and quartz. They are easy to clean and do not stain as easily. Their matte finish provides a welcome contrast in a kitchen where everything is high gloss. They are available in several bowl configurations.

If you have a problem deciding on how to coordinate all of these items, consult an interior designer or home store designer or appliance associate. They are well trained in the art of matching items to your specifications. Make your selections early in the process of remodeling. The pressure of last minute decisions may mean disappointing results.

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