home improvement Archives - Tri-Lite Builders

21 Nov 2023

Sticky Post By Steve Shinn, CR Posted in Bathroom Remodels, Blog, Build/Design Process, Home Improvements, Storage, Trends Permalink

12 Custom Storage Solutions for a Clutter-Free Bathroom

Sticky Post By Steve Shinn, CR On November 21, 2023

There are a lot of details, both big and small, to think about when designing or remodeling a bathroom. And I believe that to create a space that truly works for you, investing extra time and money on custom storage in the planning stages will be worth it in the long run. Here are 12 custom storage solutions to consider with your design and remodeling team early on for a clutter-free bathroom.

Materials + Methods Design

Custom Storage Solutions

The first step in planning a functional bathroom is understanding what your needs are and the general quantity of what you plan to keep in your bathroom. I suggest writing a list of your top priorities and wish list items, such as towel storage, easy access to hairstyling, or an organized skincare setup.

Your bathroom might not fit everything you would like. Pare down your belongings and try to decide where each category of items will reside. Eliminating what you don’t love or need, and deciding on a home for each category, before you finalize your plans might help narrow down your storage solutions. You might realize that some less frequently used items are better stored elsewhere in the house.

Docking Drawer

1. Hairstyling Drawer
Many people use hairstyling tools and products daily, yet these items are often tucked away under the sink or somewhere else that’s not very accessible. If this sounds like you, and you want your tools and products to be easily reachable, consider devoting a drawer to hair care.

An outlet in the drawer can help keep cords neat and off the counters. And consider storage that will allow you to put hot tools away right after using them, while they’re still cooling, as with the metal-lined holders seen in this photo from Docking Drawer.

KraftMaster Renovations

2. Rolling Drawers
Items stored in the back of deep cabinets are difficult, and sometimes awkward, to retrieve and put away. It’s also very easy to forget about things when they get shoved to the back, which can lead to clutter and unused items. Rolling drawers with full-extension slides will allow you to see all the contents and keep them organized.

How to Choose a Bathroom Vanity

KraftMaid

3. Tiered Drawers
If your drawers are very deep, you might consider adding tiers; splitting your original drawer into two might prevent it from becoming a cavernous catchall. There are many tiered drawer configurations to suit a range of organizing needs. If you need part of your drawer to remain deep, for instance, a cabinetmaker might be able to install a partially tiered drawer.

Wow Great Place

4. Pullout Towers
Cabinets that extend to the ceiling add storage, which is especially handy in a bathroom with a small footprint. Wow Great Place created the three stacked pullout towers seen here, in a narrow space between a sink and a wall. They increase the storage considerably, all the items are accessible, and the pullouts are fairly inconspicuous when closed.

Delicious Kitchens & Interiors, LLC

5. Tip-Out Tray and Notched Drawers
I’ve seen many bathrooms in which the panel in front of the sink is a false drawer front, and I always find it disappointing to pull on the handle and have it be immobile. To squeeze in every ounce of storage possible, depending on your sink and counter configurations, consider adding a tip-out tray and notched drawers, as Delicious Kitchens & Interiors did here.

MasterBrand Cabinets

6. Hidden Hamper
Many of my clients don’t like having their laundry hampers visible and taking up floor space; they prefer to have them hidden. Hidden hampers require a lot of space though, so you’ll want to weigh the pros and cons of giving up cabinet space (either in your bathroom or your closet) to house one.

Since a hamper is a frequently used item, the solution should be both convenient and aesthetically pleasing. If you decide to allocate cabinet space for your hamper, I recommend installing one on slides so you can pull it out push it in easily.

Whit Willow, Llc.

7. Vanity Towel Bar and Hooks
If you don’t have much wall space for hanging towels, consider installing towel bars and hooks in front of or on the side of your vanity.

Mulberry’s Design House

8. Wall Storage
As long as a wall isn’t load-bearing and doesn’t have pipes or electrical wires running through it, you might be able to hollow out the wall to create more storage. A half wall that separates the toilet from the shower or vanity area can be an ideal place for storing extra bath tissue, as in this space by Mulberry’s Design House. I recommend proceeding with this solution only with the approval of an architect or a contractor.

KraftMaster Renovations

9. Medicine Cabinet Features
In the past, a medicine cabinet was simply a shallow cabinet with a mirror. Nowadays there are many features you can select to make your medicine cabinet serve you well.

Useful features can include a Bluetooth speaker for your music and refrigerated sections for special skincare products and medicines. You also can add night lights, defoggers, and charging ports for electric toothbrushes, razors, and beauty devices. Some of these features might be considered luxury items, but they might truly enhance your life and make your routines more efficient.

Wood Specialties, Inc.

10. Toe Kick Storage
A toe kick is a recessed area at the bottom of a base cabinet that allows someone to stand closer to the counter comfortably. Depending on the construction of your cabinets, you might be able to convert the base to a toe-kick drawer for even more storage. If you have young children, a cover for the toe kick drawer can double as a step as well. Consult with your architect and contractor to see if incorporating a toe kick drawer would be a feasible option for you.

Hartman Baldwin Design/Build

11. Bathtub Storage
Carve out extra spaces in the framing of your bathtub or create a shallow cabinet or shelving unit in front of your bathtub.

Casework

12. Decor Display
While planning your functional bathroom, be sure to also include spaces where you can add decor and personality. Evaluate if recessed shelving created from otherwise unused zones might be a good investment for you. Open shelves can display small plants, candles, and framed photos, as well as serve as additional storage.

Houzz Contributor. Patricia Lee is a professional home organizer in the San Francisco Bay Area. She is the co-owner of Tailorly with her business partner Jeanne Taylor. Together they create beautiful homes through decluttering, organizing, and styling. For more information visit www.tailorly.net.

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For high-end home design, build, and remodeling in the greater Phoenix area that reflects your vision, Tri-Lite Builders will help you love your home again. Start your project by calling us at (480) 895-3442 or emailing [email protected] to discuss your remodeling project. We offer no-obligation in-home consultation. Our NARI-certified award-winning designers and craftsmen are eager to work with you to make your vision for your home a reality! See our portfolio here.

07 Nov 2023

Sticky Post By Steve Shinn, CR Posted in Blog, Design, furniture arrangement, Interior Design, Lifestyle, Professional Interior Designer, Trends Permalink

How to Get Your Furniture Arrangement Right

Sticky Post By Steve Shinn, CR On November 7, 2023

Like a blank page or canvas, an empty room can be either an opportunity or a challenge. With so many ways to fill it, how do you know where to start? I’ve taken some of the basic rules of furniture arrangement and distilled them into 10 simple tips. They’ll help you work with your interior designer to determine where to put things, where not to put things, and how to prioritize the choices you make.

Nicole Peter Studio

Basic Rules of Furniture Arrangement

Think About How the Room Will Function
Consider how the room is used and how many people will use it. That will dictate the type of furnishings you’ll need and the amount of seating required.

Hendel Homes

Decide on a Focal Point
Identify the room’s focal point — a fireplace, view, television — and orient the furniture accordingly. If you plan to watch television in the room, the ideal distance between the set and the seating is three times the size of the screen (measured diagonally). Therefore, if you’ve got a 40-inch set, your chair should be 120 inches away.

Studio H Design Group

Start With Priority Pieces
Place the largest pieces of furniture first, such as the sofa in the living room or the bed in the bedroom. In most cases, this piece should face the room’s focal point. Chairs should be no more than 8 feet apart to facilitate conversation. Unless your room is especially small, avoid pushing all the furniture against the walls.

Manlove and Company Interiors

Consider Symmetry
Symmetrical arrangements work best for formal rooms. Asymmetrical arrangements make a room feel more casual.

Galbraith Carnahan Architects

Create a Traffic Flow
Think about the flow of traffic through the room — generally the path between doorways. Don’t block that path with any large pieces of furniture if you can avoid it. Allow 30 to 48 inches of width for major traffic routes and a minimum of 24 inches of width for minor ones.

Try to direct traffic around a seating group, not through the middle of it. If traffic cuts through the middle of the room, consider creating two small seating areas instead of one large one.

Moose Tuchus LLC

Aim for Variety
Vary the size of furniture pieces throughout the room, so your eyes move up and down as you scan the space. Balance a large or tall item by placing another piece of similar height across the room from it (or use it to replicate the scale). Avoid putting two tall pieces next to each other.

nest + company

Build in Contrast
Combine straight and curved lines for contrast. If the furniture is modern and linear, throw in a round table for contrast. If the furniture is curvy, mix in an angular piece. Similarly, pair solids with voids: Combine a leggy chair with a solid side table, and a solid chair with a leggy table.

BDesignD

Design for Ease of Use
Place a table within easy reach of every seat, being sure to combine pieces of similar scale, and make sure every reading chair has an accompanying lamp. Coffee tables should be located 14 to 18 inches from a sofa to provide sufficient legroom.

John McClain Design

Allow for Circulation
In a dining room, make sure there are at least 48 inches between each edge of the table and the nearest wall or piece of furniture. If traffic doesn’t pass behind the chairs on one side of the table, 36 inches should suffice.

In bedrooms, allow at least 24 inches between the side of the bed and a wall, and at least 36 inches between the bed and a swinging door.

Do Your Planning
Give your back a break. Before you move any furniture, test your design on paper. Measure the room’s dimensions, noting the location of windows, doors, heat registers, and electrical outlets, then draw up a floor plan on graph paper using cutouts to represent the furnishings. Or, better yet, use a digital room planner to draw the space and test various furniture configurations. It’s less work and a lot more fun.

Crosby and Company

Tell us: What furniture arrangement challenges have you faced in your home?

Article written by Fred Alpert, Houzz Contributor. Fred has written about architecture and design for many Web sites and magazines, including Houzz, Metropolitan Home, House Beautiful, and Style 1900.

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09 Oct 2023

Sticky Post By Steve Shinn, CR Posted in Blog, Home Improvements, home organization, Laundry Rooms, Trends Permalink

8 Impressive New Laundry Rooms

Sticky Post By Steve Shinn, CR On October 9, 2023

If there’s one room that has enjoyed a well-deserved glow-up in recent years, it’s the laundry room. Once relegated to dark garages, unfinished basements and other dreary areas of a home, laundry rooms now command attention in premium spaces. Here, design and remodeling pros share the details and features they embraced to imbue these attention-grabbing laundry rooms with function and style.

Laundry Rooms You’ll Love

First ImpressionDesigner: Crisp Architects
Location: Litchfield County, Connecticut
Size: 250 square feet (23 square meters)

Homeowners’ request. “Before the renovation, the house did not have a defined mudroom space when entering off of the garage,” architect James Crisp says. “The owner requested a space that provided ample room to enter the house from the outdoors or from the garage, while also providing storage opportunities and large windows that look out onto the backyard gardens. The new space also provided an opportunity to move the laundry out of the basement and to a more central location that is both bright and airy.”

Special features.“A continuous honed Carrara marble countertop helps to visually draw attention away from the under-counter washer and dryer, while slide-away pocket doors completely hide the appliances when they are not in use,” Crisp says. “The Waterworks fireclay farmhouse apron sink adds a traditional element to the custom millwork Shaker-style cabinetry and the utility of a washbasin necessary for a functional mudroom and laundry. The floor is a checkerboard pattern honed 12-by-12-inch Gioia Venatino and Dark Bardiglio marble tile by Studium. A drying rack for delicate laundry is able to fold away when not in use.”

Designer tip. “Enclosed storage cabinets, slide-away pocket doors, and the fold-down laundry drying rack all allow the space to function easily but also keep the space visually clean when not in use,” Crisp says.

Amy Pearson Design

Pet-Friendly Designer: Amy Pearson Design
Location: Portland, Oregon
Size: 94 square feet (8.7 square meters); 7½ by 12½ feet

Homeowners’ request.“The clients wanted overflow pantry and storage space, a front-loading washer and dryer, and some counter space for folding laundry,” says designer Amy Pearson, whose clients found her on Houzz. “Their other big ask for the space was the addition of a dog bath for the four-legged family member. By utilizing a stacked washer and dryer unit, we were able to add a tall cabinet with rollout shelves for storage, counter space for folding with drawer storage underneath, and an elevated dog bath for easy-on-the-back bath sessions.”

Special features. “The big standout in the space is the dog bath,” Pearson says. “It’s elevated off the floor to make washing easier on the homeowner’s back but not so high that the dog is able to get in and out of the bath on his own. The black cabinets — Mopboard Black by Benjamin Moore — earthy green tile, white countertops, and wood floors make for an organic color palette that is sure to stand the test of time.”

Designer tip. “Thinking outside the box in space planning can lead to some creative use of space,” Pearson says. “Which is why it can be really helpful to work with a designer. And don’t be afraid to play with contrast in the colors and surface materials you select. Contrast brings visual interest. Play with texture, even in the case of tile, for even more interest.”

“Uh-oh” moment.“We really had to work through the geometry for the height of the dog bath,” Pearson says. “It took several rounds of measuring to make sure that the basin was at a height that was comfortable for the homeowner but not too tall for the dog. We simulated heights with chairs and other props, measured what the dog would jump in and out of, and measured comfortable reach heights for the client in order to land on the best dimension.”Custom cabinets: Rockwood Cabinetry

Safferstone Interiors

Happy PlaceDesigner: Heather Safferstone of Safferstone Interiors
Location: New Hope, Pennsylvania
Size: 190 square feet (18 square meters)

Homeowners’ request. “The homeowner had a very spacious three-car garage for their two cars but not a very functional laundry room and mudroom,” designer Heather Safferstone says. “The existing space was a 6-foot walk-through from the garage to the house cramped with too little storage for a family of any size. With their third baby on the way, the homeowners wanted to create a more spacious and organized entrance that would allow them to perform their household chores more easily but also store the kids’ items, cleaning and pet supplies and have room for their family of five to come and go more easily.”

Special features.“From the get-go I knew we would utilize custom cabinetry to fulfill our storage needs and to create an organized and built-in appearance for the laundry wall,” Safferstone says. “The client and I were both excited about using a color for the cabinetry instead of traditional white. We landed on a happy shade of blue (Sleepy Blue by Sherwin-Williams) for the cabinetry that her daughter, 4 years old at the time, called Elsa Blue.” Other special features include a quartz countertop for folding, natural white oak shelves, and an apron-front utility sink to “soak clothes, rinse muddy boots or bathe the dog,” Safferstone says. Opposite the laundry area is mudroom-style storage with lockers for each kid and parent.

Designer tip. “Embrace at least a dose of risk,” Safferstone says. “Colored cabinetry took this room from good to great. I knew I wanted to create a cheerful, welcoming, and organized space that wasn’t too serious and is reflective of the sweet young family that lives here. Laundry is boring, but if designed thoughtfully, it can be a happy space cohesive with the entirety of the home.”

“Uh-oh” moment. “During the design process, we considered several tile options for the floor, and ultimately the client and I selected a white brick to be laid in a herringbone pattern with gray grout,” Safferstone says. “The contractor installed it and it looked beautiful. However, the homeowner found that she could see footprints and worried it would bother her over time. Since cabinetry hadn’t been installed yet, she had him pull it up and replace it with a more utilitarian large-format porcelain tile that already looked a bit worn. We repurposed the leftover white brick as the backsplash tile above the counters.”Shop for housekeeping and laundry products

nest + company

Hip Slide Designer: Tracy Parkinson of Nest + Co.
Location: Newton, Massachusetts

Homeowners’ request.“This laundry was added as part of a larger overall renovation and addition to the home,” designer Tracy Parkinson says. “It’s located within a finished basement sitting room and guest room suite and therefore had to be able to be hidden away when necessary. The custom sliding door was the answer.”

Special features. “The laundry has lots of lovely elements like porcelain tiles that mimic beaded paneling, slate flooring, a beautiful updated floral wallpaper, and a custom-made beaded wood modern sliding door,” Parkinson says.

Designer tip. “Treat your laundry room as you would any other room, from a design perspective,” Parkinson says. “Give it pretty tiles, wallpaper, flooring, details. We all have to do household chores. There’s no reason these spaces shouldn’t be pleasant and pretty as we toil away.”

“Uh-oh” moment. “We had already designed and ordered the custom sliding door and then realized during a site visit that there was a new soffit running along the ceiling where the door would hang,” Parkinson says. “Thankfully the contractor worked with us to be sure it would ultimately work as planned.”

Kurk Homes

Quiet Luxury Designers: Kim Provost (lead interiors) and Steven Byrne (architectural) of Kurk Homes
Construction: Kurk Homes
Location: College Station, Texas
Size: 96 square feet (9 square meters); 8 by 12 feet

Homeowners’ request. “This home was designed with the future homeowner in mind, locating the utility room right off of the drop zone and casual entry of the home through the garage,” says Melanie Sparks, president and co-owner of Kurk Homes. “We wanted to create a welcoming and joyful room that was functional, with ample storage and folding space with a continuous countertop that wrapped around the room from the sink to above the washer and dryer.”

Special features. Black porcelain flooring. Quartz countertops with folding space. Ten-inch James Hardie shiplap ceiling application. Apron-front sink. Dark blue washer and dryer. Stone, brass, and porcelain backsplash tile in a harlequin pattern. “Crisp white tiled backsplash to the ceiling brightened the space, along with the natural light through the window that bounced off the gold fixtures and hardware,” Sparks says.

Designer tip. “Always try to create a space that is happy, especially for mundane activities like loads of laundry,” Sparks says. “Adding natural light and an interesting backsplash can add some joy in the room, along with a fun pendant light hanging from an unexpected ceiling detail in a laundry room.”

Uh-oh” moment. “This room was originally planned to have stained concrete,” Sparks says. “Sometimes construction can get messy, and the stained concrete had obvious surface damage that could not be repaired, days before the grand opening. Quickly we were able to select a tile that we think actually works better than the originally planned stained concrete. So it turned out to be a blessing in disguise, albeit stressful at the time.”

Light fixture: Stonington, Visual Comfort Studio Collection; appliances: Sapphire Blue, GE Profile; wall, ceiling, trim, and cabinet paint: Pure White, Sherwin-Williams

Ariel Bleich Design

Wraparound ViewDesigner: Ariel Bleich Design
Location: Austin, Texas
Size: 160 square feet (15 square meters); 10 by 16 feet

Homeowners’ request. “The homeowners wanted a dedicated laundry room with nice views since they spend ample time in the space doing laundry,” designer Ariel Bleich says. “The room has large windows that face the backyard and lots of folding and storage space.”

Special features. “We used a neutral gray hex porcelain tile for the floors but brought in a color accent on the cabinets,” Bleich says. “The greenish-gray paint was used in other parts of the home and we wanted it to tie in with the rest of the house so the finishes flow throughout.”

Designer tip.“Butcher block counters were chosen to bring in a wood accent, but they were also a cost savings over stone,” Bleich says.

Sustainable Nine Design + Build

Surf’s Up Designer: Brittany Blunt of Sustainable Nine Design + Build
Location: Golden Valley, Minnesota
Size: 50 square feet (4.7 square meters)

Homeowners’ request. “The client’s request for their laundry room was to infuse it with a sense of fun, achieved through a funky wallpaper and abstract tile,” says designer Brittany Blunt, who collaborated with her clients using Houzz idea books. “Addressing the challenge of limited square footage, we strategically placed it adjacent to the master bedroom, creating an additional space for folding clothes while maximizing storage and utility. This design approach optimized every inch of available space, transforming their laundry room into a functional and enjoyable area.”

Special features. “The laundry room features large abstract gray tiles, fun surfer-themed wallpaper, and midcentury cabinets with quartersawn white oak, all elegantly finished with Benjamin Moore’s Castle Peak Gray paint,” Blunt says. “It’s a space that seamlessly blends style and function.”

Designer tip. “To enhance a small space, incorporate wallpaper, as it offers an affordable means to introduce a distinctive and personalized element,” Blunt says. “Additionally, opting for oversized tiles with a larger scale can be a game changer, not only simplifying grout maintenance but also delivering a sleek and contemporary aesthetic, achieving a more seamless and modern appearance.”Wallpaper: Lido Cream Beach Life, Hovia

Storie Collective

Get the BluesDesigner: Sara Swabb of Storie Collective
Location: Wilmington, North Carolina

Homeowners’ request. “This was a new build,” designer Sara Swabb says. “We created a laundry room that met our clients’ storage and laundering needs but also felt light and airy — and finished — a space that brings charm and interest to the home.”

Special features. “We used a beautiful pop of coastal blue, a nod to both a coastal and historical-traditional palette that appealed to the desired aesthetic,” Swabb says. “A fun Rebecca Atwood wallpaper — Mixed Stripe in Blue-Slate —brings movement and interest to the space.”

Designer tip. “Be adventurous in rooms that serve a sole purpose such as a laundry or powder room,” Swabb says. “And remember: Utility spaces can be beautiful too.”

Shared from HOUZZ and written by Mitchell Parker, Houzz Editorial Staff. Home design journalist writing about cool spaces, innovative trends, breaking news, industry analysis, and humor.

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07 Sep 2023

Sticky Post By Steve Shinn, CR Posted in Blog, Design, Home Improvements, home organization, Lifestyle, Storage Permalink

10 Keys to a Well-Functioning House

Sticky Post By Steve Shinn, CR On September 7, 2023

The design of a house can have a profound effect on how we feel, but we often attribute this to aesthetics. In fact, it’s about so much more including creating a well-functioning house. Good design should enhance our experience of a space, and the way a room looks is almost the icing on the cake. Here are 10 key tips for achieving a comfortable, well-thought-out home.

Craig O’Connell Architecture

TIPS FOR A WELL-FUNCTIONING HOUSE

Get the Layout Right The starting point for any kind of change in your home should be the layout and the way the space functions. Spend time looking at how you use and move around your home. Try to establish what is and isn’t working to get a clear picture of what you need to alter. If the space doesn’t work well and you’re finding it difficult to move around or be comfortable, the interior decoration isn’t going to make much of an improvement. Rather, you may need to knock down a wall between a kitchen and a family or dining room, for example, or steal space from a bedroom to create an en suite.
Be Practical A well-designed home is one that makes things easy for you, so it pays to make room for those everyday tasks like laundry. Not all of us have space for a separate utility area, but clever design may enable you to maximize the space you do have. A washer and dryer can be stacked and concealed behind closet doors, making them easy to access when required.
Use the Awkward Space Do you have an area you don’t know what to do with? Challenging spaces are often left bare, and bare spaces tend to attract clutter. If an unused corner in your home has become messy, it may take away from the enjoyment of the room. Think about how you can transform the space, as there are clever ways of putting these awkward areas to good use. A nook at the top of a staircase can have a window seat that’s both functional and cozy.

Melanie Stewart Designs

Future-Proof It Make sure that your design addresses more than just your immediate needs. It’s very easy to focus your attention on how you want to live right now, especially if you have young children. However, your needs will change over time, so it’s vital that you build in some flexibility. For instance, the opportunity to create a separate living space in an open-plan home may be a good idea for when the children get older, since family members may eventually desire a calm room away from the hustle and bustle of the rest of the home.

Barcci Builders

Designate Storage “A place for everything and everything in its place” really is the mantra for a well-functioning home. When it comes to choosing the right kind of storage, you should let what you need to store dictate the kind of storage that you select. Designated storage is far more efficient and useful than general storage. By having a specific place for each item, you’ll avoid the possibility of everything being thrown in haphazardly.

Glas Associates

Plan the Lighting Lighting is one of the most important design aspects of a home and is something many people struggle with. It has such a powerful effect on the ambiance of a room that it is worth taking the time to get it absolutely right. The trick is to get the proper balance of artificial and natural light. Too much artificial light results in a space that feels clinical, but if a room is underlit, everything appears gloomy and uninviting.

123 Remodeling Inc.

Make Rooms Work Hard When you’re designing a room, try to see where you can utilize spaces more effectively. Can you give a design feature multiple functions, for example? Can you build in more storage?

Bilotta Kitchen and Home

Pick Finishes Wisely Choose finishes that are appropriate for the room. Tiles in a kitchen are a practical, durable choice for flooring. Spend time researching the finishes for your home, and ask about upkeep and suitability for the space where you plan to use them. Even if you love the look of an item, it’s important to think about whether it’s a practical choice for your room.

Kalaa Chakra Interiors

Layer With Color Your choice of color isn’t important only for how it looks; it also will have a big impact on how you feel in the space. Get it wrong and the color will shout at you every time you enter the room. Get it right, and you won’t even notice the color — you’ll just love spending time in the space. A good tip is to layer your color palette: Start with a neutral backdrop and build on color carefully by adding bolder shades through accessories and art. However, neutral doesn’t mean painting your walls a bland shade. You can create a neutral version of practically any color by going either very light or very dark. Think grays, caramels, and sandy tones, all of which work in any version from light to dark as a neutral backdrop that you can combine with any other accent color.

Christopher Patrick Interiors

Let Your Personality Shine Most importantly, your home should reflect the personality of those who live in it. Choose design elements that you love and that help you feel healthy and happy. This living room features a personal art collection and re-upholstered slipper chairs that have an emotional connection for the homeowner.

Blog by Denise O’Connor, Houzz Contributor

Denise holds a degree in architecture from Richview School of Architecture at UCD. After graduating in Dublin she moved to London where she worked on residential, healthcare, and office schemes including the award-winning headquarters for Holiday Extras for which she was a project architect at Walker and Martin. In 2005 she returned to Dublin and set up architecture and interior design consultancy Optimize Design. Denise is an architecture and interiors columnist for the Irish Times and a contributor for HOUZZ. She is also a regular contributor to various other publications and also gives lectures on a range of topics. She was a presenter for the first series of the RTE TV show ‘The Design Doctors’ and is the creator and name behind the successful paint collection for Dulux called Signature Collection.

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07 Sep 2023

Sticky Post By Steve Shinn, CR Posted in Blog, Design, Home Improvements, Kitchen Remodels, Lifestyle Permalink

11 Must-Haves in a Designer’s Dream Kitchen

Sticky Post By Steve Shinn, CR On September 7, 2023

In interior design, it’s important to think big: After all, in some projects, you can’t get everything you want, but you should set the bar high to achieve a great result. But in your dream kitchen, you can have it all — and more. Here I’ve compiled my top 11 must-have design features for a dream kitchen. Some are extravagant, some are just downright practical, and all are worth considering as designer touches you might want to include in your next kitchen renovation — even if for now it’s only in your dreams.

WINN Design+Build

DESIGNING YOUR DREAM KITCHEN

Quartz Counters Quartz is a designer’s dream to work with for many reasons. It’s made using actual stone, so it echoes the natural appeal of materials such as granite or marble. But it is also processed and manufactured in ways that make it strong, nonporous, and color-customizable to create many different looks with good color predictability (as opposed to a stone slab, which can contain more unexpected surprises compared with the sample). This beauty and durability doesn’t come without a price: It is generally more expensive than stone or total synthetics, although the price will vary depending on composition and manufacturer. While granite counters get overexposed on real estate reality shows, quartz is definitely the new must-have for my dream home. Read more about quartz countertops

Stock & Associates, Inc.

Custom Cabinets, of course, those beautiful counters will need something on which to rest, so I might as well toss in some sleek custom cabinetry. The advantage of using true custom cabinets vs. typical stock cabinets that can be configured in different combinations is twofold. First, custom cabinets can be fitted perfectly to your kitchen, filling the space precisely and making the best use of corners, spaces between windows, and any height or length of wall.

Brooke Wagner Design

Second, custom cabinets can achieve looks that stock cabinets can’t, especially when integrated with other features such as a banquette seat or kitchen island. This is especially important when going for a sought-after transitional style, where cabinets are desired to be seamless but not ultraminimalist.

Plus, although white tends to be the most in-demand shade, my dream home’s custom cabinets can be any hue I choose.

post architecture inc

A (True) Counter-Depth FridgeIf you’ve gone to the trouble of getting sharply tailored cabinetry, it would be a shame to ruin the lines with a bulky fridge. (Oversized fridges often end up filled with unnecessary food clutter anyway.)Counter-depth refrigerators follow the line of a typical 24-inch-deep counter for a flush look but beware: Some models sold as “counter depth” still stick out a bit past a typical counter when installed. Check the exact dimensions of a model you’re considering, and compare notes with your installer to make sure the lines will truly match up.

Philadelphia Design Collective

Deep SinkWhile a fridge can sometimes be too big, I’m not sure the same can be said about a kitchen sink. Typical sinks are often around 8 inches deep, but a sink that is 10 inches deep or more (especially a wide one) makes for luxurious ease of use. Being able to easily fit a large pot fully inside the sink for filling or cleaning is very practical. Plus, if you do leave an item or two in the sink to be cleaned later (sitting on top of a perfectly fitted metal sink grate, of course), they won’t be visible in your seemingly bottomless sink.

Toronto Interior Design Group

A little extra depth is even helpful for tighter sinks, such as those at a bar, prep counter, or butler’s pantry, as it helps avoid splashback when rinsing vegetables or pouring out liquid.

I can speak on this point from my personal experience. I have a deep stainless steel sink in my own kitchen, shown here, and I love it. It’s an easy and affordable upgrade that’s part of my dream home but also part of my real home.

Anna Braund

Touch-Activated FaucetsWith a sharp, deep sink, let’s make it even easier to use by adding a touch-activated faucet. These smart devices aren’t just for minimalist tech-head homes. They come in a range of styles to suit even more traditional or transitional kitchens. Inside that stylish faucet is a sensor that activates the faucet just from a tap, so you can turn on the water even with your hands occupied. The next time you’re making dough (or just making a mess) and need to rinse off, you’ll be glad you can turn on the faucet with just a tap from your elbow.

Tracey Stephens Interior Design Inc

Drawer Dishwashers Besides looking smart, a drawer dishwasher opens up new intelligent functions. Running a full-sized dishwasher when only partially full is a waste of water, but a unit like this can wash each individual half, giving you more flexibility for the size of the load to be cleaned. Plus, you can be running one drawer while still filling another, so you can clean your often-used items now while other pieces build up a bit over time. Goodbye to waiting an extra day to wash the dishes in my dream home.

Leona Mozes Photography

Hidden Range HoodI was tempted to include a bold, show-stopper range hood in my perfect kitchen, but I also love one that disappears into custom cabinets, as shown here. Ultimately, I realized that there is no middle ground: The best hoods are either a commanding focal point or quietly hide away to allow other features to speak uninterrupted.

Haefele Design

Steam-Convection OvenLooking to upgrade your cooking? Convection ovens increase the effectiveness of a typical oven by circulating the hot air inside to cook more evenly, making this a modern cooking essential. But newer technology takes that concept one step further with steam-convection combination ovens that some say result in better texture and nutrition. Foods cooked in steam tend to retain more moisture — and thus more vitamins — than foods that are simply baked or boiled. That makes a steam-convection oven not just a part of my dream kitchen, but a step toward healthier eating.

Highmark Builders

Pro-Style Gas RangeSteam-convection ovens may be high-tech, but when it comes to the range-top, nothing beats the look and power of chef’s kitchen-style burners. Classic red knobs give a punch of color, and the exposed burners on this style of gas range say “Ready to cook.”

WoodHart Interiors & Design, LLC

Deep DrawersThis is nothing new, but that doesn’t keep it from being in my dream kitchen. Trading out the usual lower cabinets for deep drawers (one or two per traditional cabinet box) gives you easy reach-in access for anything from a large pot to stacks of dinnerware.

Dura Supreme Cabinetry

To improve organization even further, drawer divider systems can break the interior into perfectly sized compartments so everything has its place. Plus, they can be adjusted later if needs change.

Deep drawers are an affordable upgrade too, because many companies provide deeper drawer units at the same cost as a more typical three-drawer model.

Kube Constructions

Slab BacksplashI thought I had everything I wanted for my dream kitchen with the deep drawers, but then I realized it had to end right back where it started: with a beautiful statement-making stone. The new must-have kitchen look eschews the everyday tile backsplash for the dramatic, custom look of a slab backsplash in the same material as the counters. After all, if you love your quartz counter so much, it makes sense to put the material on a vertical plane to show it off from all angles.I don’t want to be greedy, so that’s everything for my dream kitchen — for now. Your turn: What must-have did I miss from your dream kitchen?

HOUZZ BLOG: Toronto Interior Design Group is a trusted one-stop-shop residential interior design concierge boutique-style firm crafting timeless interiors.

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17 Aug 2023

Sticky Post By Steve Shinn, CR Posted in Bathroom Remodels, Blog, Build/Design Process, Design, Home Improvements Permalink

8 High-Value Bathroom Upgrades to Know About

Sticky Post By Steve Shinn, CR On August 17, 2023

If you’re redoing your bathroom, chances are your budget isn’t endless and you need to think carefully about where to spend and where to save. So which upgrades are worth the extra expense and will make a significant difference to the look and functionality of the space? It’s a question we asked three bathroom experts. Here’s what they said.

Synergy Design & Construction

1. Skylight

“Adding a skylight is one of the most effective upgrades you can make to a bathroom,” says Giulianna del Popolo, principal designer at GDP Interior Design. “Having natural light streaming in from overhead creates a serene, spa-like atmosphere. It also means you can do away with having a window, which gives you more scope with shower placement.

“There are many options available, from solar-powered and electrically operable skylights to ones with tinted glass in various sizes and finishes. What you choose will depend on your roof type and budget,” del Popolo says.

“For a new build, plan the skylight early so it’s factored into the roof shape and orientation. If you’re renovating, you’ll need a builder to assess for obstructions in the roof space before you can commit,” she says.

“Also be aware that having constant sun streaming into a bathroom can make it uncomfortably hot, depending on the room’s size and orientation. If this is the case in your bathroom, be sure to invest in some motorized blinds to cut the glare.”

KraftMaster Renovations

2. Integrated Electrical Outlets

“If you have chargeable shavers or electrical toothbrushes or if you plan on using or charging any electrical devices in the bathroom, consider installing electrical outlets inside cabinets or drawers to avoid countertop clutter and messy, dangling power cords,” del Popolo says.

“Power docks aren’t just for custom vanities — you’ll find them in some off-the-shelf vanities too. Just be sure to tell your electrician early on that you want outlets integrated into your vanity or drawers so he or she can plan for them,” she adds.

Shop for bathroom vanities

Agnieszka Jakubowicz PHOTOGRAPHY

3. Mirrored Cabinet

“Upgrading from a regular mirror to a mirrored cabinet will help keep your countertop clear,” del Popolo says. “It’s the perfect spot to house all those small creams, tubes, and bottles at a convenient eye level.

“Mirrored cabinets do not need to be expensive and can either be partially recessed into the wall or surface-mounted. Just be aware that your choice of installation will affect your lighting options for around the mirror,” she says.

Sockeye Homes

4. Exhaust Fan

“Problems with air circulation will bring down even the loveliest of bathrooms,” del Popolo says. “Ensure that you specify an exhaust fan within the design to remove excess moisture and odors, and help prohibit the formation of mold in your bathroom. If you’re concerned about noise, check the labeling and choose an exhaust fan with a lower decibel rating.”

Pollen Architecture & Design

5. Underfloor Heating

“Stepping onto a warm bathroom floor is a joy on those cold winter mornings, and it’s something I’d particularly recommend if you’re designing an en suite,” says Anoushka Allum, interior designer and principal at Anoushka Allum Design. “Be aware that you’ll need to specify it right at the start of the build or remodeling process.”

HomeMasons, Inc

6. Custom Cabinetry

“Custom cabinetry is probably my favorite upgrade as it adds so much to a bathroom,” Allum says.

“Often clients will start off thinking they will buy something off the shelf. However, you can never achieve the perfect fit, look, and functionality this way. I always encourage clients to spend a little more on custom cabinetry so they can achieve an outcome that is completely tailored to their bathroom and their individual needs. And again, it needs to be decided upon in the planning stage of your build or renovation to allow for space planning,” she says.

INS Contractors

7. Drawer Storage

“Upgrading your vanity from a style with doors to one with drawers is worth the extra outlay as it gives you far more functional storage,” says Ashleigh Teune, interior designer at Smarter Bathrooms+. “Drawers are also easier to clean as you don’t have to reach awkwardly into the back of cupboards.”

Raychel Wade Design

8. Shower Niche

“Dispense with the shower shelf and opt for a niche instead,” Teune says. “It provides a neat, practical spot to store shampoos and soap, and it won’t encroach on your standing space in the shower. Plus, a niche creates a far more sophisticated and streamlined look.”

Houzz Article by Georgia Madden

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03 Aug 2023

Sticky Post By Steve Shinn, CR Posted in Blog, Design, Home Improvements, Kitchen Remodels, Lifestyle, Trends Permalink

7 Stylish New Compact Home Bars

Sticky Post By Steve Shinn, CR On August 3, 2023

A compact home bar or beverage station is one of those features that can have an outsize impact on the way a home functions. It’s not on the level of a belly-up-to-the-bar-style Irish pub, but a compact home bar can spark a lively atmosphere in a relatively small footprint. Here, designers share details on modestly sized home bars and beverage stations.

Copper Sky Design + Remodel

1. Basement Bragging Rights with a Compact Home Bar

Designer: Micaela Quinton of Copper Sky Design + Remodel
Location: Atlanta
Size: This bar is in a media room that’s 500 square feet (46 square meters); 20 by 25 feet

Homeowners’ request. “This bar and media room was an unusable crawl space before we excavated the basement to create a great entertaining space for this family,” says designer Micaela Quinton, who used Houzz idea books to collaborate with the homeowners on design ideas. “The clients wanted to stay in their charming historic Intown Atlanta home, but they needed more space for their family. They couldn’t go back or up with an addition, so we went down. This media room is a nice, large flex space for them and features a bar with all the bells and whistles, including a beverage fridge, freezer, ice maker, trash pullout, sink, storage, and display shelving.”

Special features. “The tile backsplash and paint colors are really what makes this space so special,” Quinton says. “The tile is a geometric pattern of matte marble and brass. The light blue Sherwin-Williams Debonair cabinet color on the bar is a nice accent to the moody paint color that envelops the rest of the room, including the walls, ceiling, and trim.”

The countertop is Calacatta Cielo marble.

Designer tip.“We painted the walls, ceiling, and all the trim in this room the same deep blue color, Sherwin-Williams Rainstorm,” Quinton says. “It gives the space a moody, cozy feeling that works great in a basement media bonus room. A basement is a great place to go bold on color, and don’t be afraid to use dark colors, even in a space with very little or no natural light.”

“Uh-oh,” moment. “This basement build-out started as an excavation project,” Quinton says. “We turned an unusable crawl space below a historic home into a beautiful basement with 9-foot-high ceilings, a bar, media room, guest bedroom and bathroom, storage room, and home gym.

“The basement excavation process is complex and messy, and it involves structural engineering, a big conveyor belt, and a great deal of hand digging. During that excavation process, the clients were surprised by how much dirt we were removing and the extent of what was happening below their home, which they remained living in throughout the project. But they trusted our due diligence, knowledge, and experience and were thrilled with the results, especially with all the space they gained.”

Tile: Lavaliere mosaic in marble and brass, 12 by 14 inches, Daltile

Kate Roos Design LLC

2. Cool Connection

Designer: Kate Roos of Kate Roos Design
Location: Plymouth, Minnesota

Homeowners’ request.“The primary objective for this kitchen remodel was to open it up to the dining room to allow connectivity between the spaces,” designer Kate Roos says. “Once we looked at our options, it became clear that there would be slightly less storage in the new kitchen, so to solve this, we created a wonderful focal point in the dining room with storage that would take the pressure off of the kitchen. Pantry items, overflow serving ware, wine, and other miscellaneous items can easily fit in this area. This approach to the dining room allowed us to incorporate a beverage refrigerator so guests could help themselves. It also became a wonderful featured area for the client’s art piece, an original watercolor tulip.”

Roos used Houzz Pro business software for her billing, purchase orders, and proposals.

Special features. “We used a combination of white cabinetry with a walnut surround at the serving area to further frame the art,” Roos says. “The walnut is repeated inside the glass cabinetry for continuity. A soft tonal wallpaper is applied to the back for interest and a little shimmer. The quartzite countertop adds an elegant feel while providing a hardworking serving space.”

Designer tip. “The wall that this cabinetry is on varies in depth,” Roos says. “For a unified look, the tall cabinetry on the left is only 15 inches deep while all the other cabinetry on the right is full-depth. It feels consistent even though the depth is different. This was a great way to define the dining room from the living room space.”

“Uh-oh,” moment. “In the wall, we were modifying between the kitchen and the dining room was a duct that we needed to relocate,” Roos says. “It turned out that we could not run the duct in any of the remaining stud bays. After some serious problem-solving, we decided to run the duct behind the tall cabinetry on the left, which reduced the depth of that cabinet from 18 inches to 15 inches. This turned out to be a perfect solution. The 15-inch depth is perfect for pantry items and nothing gets lost.”

Kitchen & Bath Gallery

3. Taken for Granite

Designer: Lauren Dworak of Kitchen & Bath Gallery
Location: Douglas, Massachusetts
Size: 39 square feet (3.6 square meters); 6 by 6½ feet

Homeowners’ request. “They needed this space to be really functional as well as beautiful since their guests would see the space,” designer Lauren Dworak says. “We made sure the details flowed and connected back to the kitchen, with the white cabinets and black granite top. The open shelves were a great way to keep the smaller space lighter and show off beautiful glassware and wine bottles.”

Special features.“The rustic but simple wood floating shelves, sourced locally, gave a really beautiful natural element to the space,” Dworak says. “We wanted to call back to the gorgeous woodlands surrounding the home.”

Designer tip. “Adding plants brought a needed pop of color to the neutral space and again calls back to the surrounding woodlands,” Dworak says. “Also, adding a unique vintage-style faucet added an element of whimsy.”

“Uh-oh,” moment. “It was complicated getting the ice maker, fridge, and sink in the smaller area with door swings and still have some hidden storage space,” Dworak says. “We played with several options to get the best layout for the customer. The drawers ended up working really well for all the small bar tools.”

Faucet: Artifacts Gentleman’s bar faucet, Kohler

East Hill

4. Stylish Simplicity in a Compact Home Bar

Designers: Anthony Maucieri and Lisa Stretton of East Hilland Lisa Schwert Pohlschroeder of Innate Studio
Location: Pelham, New York
Size: 65 square feet (6 square meters)

Homeowners’ request. “There was wasted space adjacent to the kitchen, so we converted it into a butler’s pantry for easier service to the adjacent dining room,” designer Anthony Maucieri says.

Special features. Walnut interiors inside the upper cabinets. Frameless base cabinets with an inset detail above the counter. Quartzite countertops and backsplash.

Designer tip. “Use the interior of glass cabinets to introduce warmth or interest to a space,” Maucieri says. “The inside doesn’t always have to match the outside.”

“Uh-oh,” moment. “There were concerns regarding the walnut stain, Maucieri says. “When the sample was viewed, it was in our showroom in hand, exposed to all different types of light. When installed, the back panel is inset by 13 inches and in a dark cavity, changing the color and darkening the tone. The moment the lights were installed in the cabinets the finish brightened and looked beautiful.”

Cape Home Kitchen & Bath

5. Gorgeous Green

Designers: Kristin Whalen and Jason Fisher of Cape Home Kitchen & Bath
Location: Pocasset, Massachusetts
Size:48 square feet (4.5 square meters); 6 by 8 feet

Homeowner’s request. “This homeowner is a manager for a local distiller that specializes in canned cocktails,” designer Kristin Whalen says. “She wanted an area off the kitchen that would allow guests to be able to help themselves to a drink. She wanted the area to feel clean, crisp, and transitional in design.”

Special features. “The glass-door beverage fridge allows guests to easily see and select their canned cocktail of choice,” Whalen says.

“The Pine Grove green from Grabill Cabinets really stands out as the focal point, with natural cane webbing added to the wall doors for organic texture. The Calacatta Gold quartz countertops and full-height backsplash provide durability and contrast to the space. Finally, the use of mixed metallics — honey bronze cabinet knobs with a matte black faucet — creates visual interest.”

Designer tip. “Consider paneled appliances,” Whalen says. “By paneling the ice maker, we were able to bring a cohesive look to the space and blend this appliance in seamlessly.”

“Uh-oh,” moment. “When we first unboxed the cabinetry, we noticed that the natural cane material had been painted the same Pine Grove green, eliminating the contrast in texture we worked hard to achieve,” Whalen says. “We were able to have the doors remade with the correct material and keep the project moving along.”

Drury Design

6. In the Navy

Designer: Samantha Schoell of Drury Design
Location: Chicago
Size: 4 feet (1.2 meters) wide

Homeowners’ request. “The homeowners were interested in updating their kitchen into a more modern aesthetic that also accentuates their art-and-crafty personalities,” designer Samantha Schoell says. “They not only wanted to have a place to make drinks, a counter space for serving food when entertaining but also a space to showcase their latest art pieces. The homeowners loved the idea of a bar, so I sought to address these core needs by giving them a separate beverage center, adding glass-lit cabinets for their decor to shine, and giving them a small space that makes a large impact.”

Special features. Marble-look quartz countertop. Navy blue custom cabinets. Colorful backsplash accent tile featuring koi fish. Clear glass cabinets with lighting. Crown molding. Craftsman handles and knobs. Beverage fridge. Microwave drawer.

Designer tip. “Placing the bar by the dining area allows beverages to be just a short reach when eating,” Schoell says. “Also, I believe this makes for a smooth transition between kitchen and dining space. Homeowners who love to entertain find bar areas not only a way to keep people out of the cooking space but also gives more space in the main refrigerator by placing all drinks in a separate beverage refrigerator.”

“Uh-oh,” moment.“This Chicago home is over 100 years old, and sticking with the style of the home was a huge factor,” Schoell says. “The home incorporated massive amounts of wood, and the homeowner was having difficulty determining the appropriate color they wanted. They were concerned with how to update an older house to a modern Craftsman style. I made the suggestion to go with a darker blue as I knew it would pair well with the wood features throughout the home and bring in the fun personality of the clients.”

Backsplash accent tile: Koi Pond in turquoise, 6 by 8 inches, Motawi Tileworks

Norman Building & Design

7. Woodsy Wet Bar

Designer: Norman Building & Design
Location: Terrebonne, Oregon

Homeowners’ request. A functional but beautifully detailed wet bar integrated into an entertaining space.

Special features. Custom wood cabinets with ample storage for glassware, wine, and liquor. Refrigerator drawers. Stone tile backsplash. Quartz countertop. Engineered hardwood flooring.

Mitchell Parker – Houzz Editorial Staff. Home design journalist writing about cool spaces, innovative trends, breaking news, industry analysis, and humor.

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24 Jul 2023

Sticky Post By Steve Shinn, CR Posted in Blog, Home Improvements, Kitchen Island, Kitchen Remodels, Lifestyle Permalink

10 Kitchen Island Features Pros Always Recommend

Sticky Post By Steve Shinn, CR On July 24, 2023

A kitchen island offers many benefits — an extra countertop, more storage, a place where family and guests can sit, and improved circulation. But while the advantages of an island may seem straightforward, designing one isn’t. There are countless considerations that go into how an island looks and functions. To narrow down the options a bit, we asked 50 design and remodeling pros what kitchen island detail they always recommend to homeowners. Here are the 10 features that came up again and again.

JKB Kitchen & Bath

1. Kitchen Island Seating

By far, the most recommended feature for a kitchen island is seating. “If possible, we encourage seating at least at a portion of the Island,” architect Michael Klement of Architectural Resource says. “Given our kitchen-centric lifestyle, whether our clients like it or not, the island will end up becoming the gathering point.”

There are a lot of ways to approach island seating, so be sure to discuss the pros and cons of each with your design or remodeling pro.

If you expect that the seating will be used mostly for doing homework or having a quick snack, you might want all the seats facing the same way. If you like being able to look at the person next to you, you might want seating on two sides of your island, as in the Providence, Rhode Island, kitchen by JKB Kitchen & Bath seen here.

Keep in mind that you’ll want at least 24 inches of space between each seat for people to feel comfortable.

Sea Pointe Design & Remodel

In this Orange County, California, kitchen by Sea Pointe Construction, stools on opposite sides allow two people to face each other when on the narrow island. “Seating on two sides is always better for conversation,” designer Mary Jean Cipro of Thomas Sattler Homes says.

How you intend to use island seating will affect other elements, such as the length of the overhang. “Our minimum depth is 12 inches, but our ideal is around 16 to 18 inches of overhang on the countertop to give enough knee space with bar stools,” builder Al Kelekci of Hask Custom Homes says.

Designer Jason Thompson of J.THOM Residential Design & Materials likes to leave a bit of an overhang on an island countertop for clamping on accessories like pasta cranks.

LDa Architecture & Interiors

While the standard countertop height is 36 inches, you might want to consider adding a bar-height portion that’s 42 inches, as seen in this Boston kitchen by LDa Architecture & Interiors.

“Having at least one portion set up as a sit-to with a 42-inch-high surface is a very comfortable place to be,” Klement says. “It’s a height where one can be half sitting, half standing. It is psychologically and physiologically a welcoming, natural place for guests to perch, relaxed and yet engaged.”

Ailtire Studio LLC

2. Double-Sided Storage

If planned right, a kitchen island can add tons of storage to your space. And while you want to focus most of your attention on storage on the interior side of the island, don’t forget the back side.

“Whenever possible, we add extra cabinets under the overhang on the back side to maximize storage,” says Chelsea Forse, a design coordinator at King and Society Construction. “It can create a more finished look, and with the latest kitchens moving away from upper cabinets, it helps make up for the storage space that we are now missing.”

Architecture firm Ailtire Studio integrated storage on the back side of the island in the Philadelphia kitchen shown here. See the next photo for a peek at the storage.

To access the storage, the homeowners just move the stools out of the way. “Cabinetry on the back side of the island is a great place to stash the holiday platters and Crock-Pots when you don’t need them,” designer Judith Balis says.

You might also want to consider cabinets, drawers, or shelves at the ends of your island.

New to home remodeling? Learn the basics

H&H Custom Homes, LLC

3. Kitchen Island Outlets

Building code requires at least one outlet for an island, and more depending on the size of the island. So you’ll want to consider the best spot for your outlet or outlets. Be sure to talk with your design or building pro to get their advice and recommendations.

That way you can plug in a blender or mixer right on your prep surface, or you can use the outlets to charge phones and other devices.

An outlet on the back side of an island, as in this Cleveland kitchen by H&H Custom Homes, lets kids charge a laptop while doing homework.

An outlet on the side might be a better spot. Think about where you store your most-used gadgets so you can take them out of a cabinet and plug them in right on the countertop.

You might also want to consider an outlet in a drawer for charging devices so they’re not left out on the countertop.

Another thing to keep in mind is the outlet cover style. “A small detail that makes all the difference is having painted or matching wood outlet covers as opposed to a bright white plastic cover against a dark painted or wood island,” Thompson says.

Thyme & Place Design

4. Secondary Fridge

Placing a beverage fridge or fridge drawer in your island can be a great way to let people grab a drink or snack without disrupting the main work triangle in your kitchen. A good spot is at or near the island end that’s farthest away from the main action, as in this New York kitchen by Thyme & Place Design.

Another design is to have a beverage fridge on the outer side of the island which lets family members and guests grab drinks without getting in the way of the main traffic area. During parties, the countertop above can serve as a drink-making station while still leaving plenty of work surface on the other side of the island for the cook.

5. Microwave

A microwave in the island serves a similar purpose as the beverage fridge, allowing people to heat up coffee or a snack without getting in the way. If you use your island as the main prep area, having a microwave close by can minimize trips back and forth. Plus, tucking the microwave into the island gets it off the countertop, freeing up more work surfaces, and limiting the visual clutter more than if it were, say, above a range. A microwave drawer’s placement at the outer end of the island lets people use the appliance without entering the main area of the kitchen.

ProPacific Builders, Inc.

6. Durable Countertop Material

The right countertop material is key to a high-functioning island. An island typically becomes the main prep space, gathering area, homework center, and more. So, you want the surface to be as durable as possible.

Many design and remodeling pros swear by engineered quartz for its heat- and stain-resistant qualities. ProPacific Builders used quartz for the island in the San Diego kitchen seen here.

But Quartz isn’t the only player in town. Your remodeling professional might have other options in mind that will work better for your needs and style preferences, including some you might not have heard of. Designer Erica Bryen recommends Neolith, a sintered stone product. “It is one of my all-time favorite materials that can resemble Calacatta marble, any natural stones, and slate,” she says. “It’s highly resilient and can be used outdoors too.”

Designer Meghan De Maria of Moss Design likes Nano Glass, which she used for the island in her own kitchen, paired with a marble backsplash. “It’s great because it is virtually indestructible, and from a design perspective, its sleek, modern finish brings a nice balance to the natural marble,” she says.

Keep in mind that the larger an island countertop is, the harder it will be to clean. “I recommend making the island no larger than one [that a person] can comfortably lean across to wipe it clean,” designer Carrie Hayward says.

7. Prep Sink

If you choose not to put your main sink in the island, consider adding a prep sink instead. “It allows two people to prep and cook comfortably,” designer Jamie Roddy of Eden LA Furniture and Interiors says. If you use your island surface as your main prep area, it means you can rinse items right next to where you’re working, rather than rinsing items in the main sink and dripping water on the floor as you transfer them to the island.

One suggestion is to position the prep sink off to one edge of the countertop, preferably near the refrigerator so you can quickly transfer vegetables and other foods right to the basin to rinse. Plus, placing it off to the side keeps a large work surface free on the island that you can use for chopping or as buffet space when entertaining.

The prep sink in the Boston kitchen seen here, by Almar Building and Remodeling, is a good example of how placement at the end of the island looks.

8. Pullout Trash and Recycling

As mentioned, your island is likely to become your main work surface. And that makes it a good spot for a pullout trash-and-recycling center, like the one designer Sarah Robertson of Studio Dearborn designed for the suburban New York kitchen seen here. This placement allows you to wipe food scraps and crumbs right off the surface into a bin.

9. Targeted Lighting

Of course, you can’t have an adequate work surface without proper lighting. And pros recommend a layered approach. “Great overhead lighting is essential for both tasks and aesthetics,” designer Kimball Starr says. “A combination of accurately placed recessed lighting, undercabinet lighting, and decorative pendants makes for a space people won’t want to leave.”

Sometimes island pendants can obstruct sightlines and views through a kitchen. In this case, strategically placed recessed lights in the ceiling will bring task lighting right to the work surface.

Shelley Morris Interiors

10. Something Special

Don’t forget about style and flair when it comes to your island. “Find a way to make a kitchen island your own with your personality,” says architect and interior designer Robin McCarthy of Arch Studio, “whether it be a shelf for cookbooks or a special drawer for gadgets, a special color or finish, or a wine rack. Kitchen islands are one of the single most requested features for a home by our clients, and we want it to be both functional and fun.”

Many designers recommend adding furniture-style legs or other details to an island to give it a special look. “We’ll add custom leg detailing, or special details on the side panels or underside of the island overhang,” designer Mindy Gayer says.

Designer Megan McKeown of M.S. Design Studio agrees with that approach. “I love it when kitchen islands are designed to look like a free-standing piece of furniture,” she says. “You can get so creative with this type of design. This is a great spot to mix and match different materials to achieve a collected and balanced feel in the space.”

Designer Shelley Morris mixed and matched in the New York kitchen shown here.

Another way to set your island apart is to use a different color or cabinet style. “A kitchen island is like adding icing on a cake,” Sindhu Peruri of Peruri Design says. “Add personality and flair here. Most likely, the footprint of most islands is small, so this is the best place to take a risk. I love making it look different than the rest of the kitchen, either in design, color, texture, or in the materials that are used. My favorite is to introduce a different cabinetry style for the island. If the rest of the kitchen is modern and white, having an antiqued island is fun, or change up the cabinetry style into something really dramatic. This is the place to have fun.”

10 Ways to Dress Up Your Kitchen Island

Even small details can make your island stand out. Designer Thompson always recommends including integrated cutting boards in the island.

Or if you want to pamper yourself and guests, consider a heated island countertop. “If there’s seating at the island, I often recommend a heated pad under the countertop where people sit,” designer Sarah Armstrong of Studio360 says. “Sometimes tops can be very cold and therefore uninviting to sit or eat at. By adding an integral heated electric panel, controlled by a thermostat, it takes the chill out of an often cold and shocking surface when you sit at it.”

Studio Dearborn

And don’t pamper just the humans in your life. The end of an island is a great spot for a dedicated pet feeding station, like the one shown here in a Denver kitchen by Studio Dearborn.

“I often recommend a dog bowl water filler and food [storage] built into a kitchen island,” designer Ray Langhammer says. “Why? I love dogs, and any homeowner that is a dog or animal owner loves this feature. It’s a designated area for your animal that is out of the way and doesn’t get kicked by guests.

Blog shared from HOUZZ. Blog written by Mitchell Parker, Houzz Editorial Staff. Home design journalist writing about cool spaces, innovative trends, breaking news, industry analysis, and humor.

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14 Jul 2023

Sticky Post By Steve Shinn, CR Posted in Blog, Flooring, Hardwood Floors, Home Improvements, Lifestyle, Trends Permalink

The Most Popular Flooring Trends of 2023

Sticky Post By Steve Shinn, CR On July 14, 2023

Looking for fresh flooring? A finish that wipes up easily and camouflages scratches is a good place to start. But when it comes to flooring trends, above all else, floors need to work for us. If you don’t have a flooring material that can stand up to the wear and tear of your family and lifestyle, it’s time to rethink your flooring goals.

PHOTO: RYAN GARVIN

“People expect more from their flooring in terms of scale, style, and performance,” says Ashley Biscan, senior editorial manager of Floor & Decor. For that reason, she says both performance flooring and wide-plank hardwood have become mainstays for homes across the country. But while resilient surfaces are a must, bringing style to the forefront is another important consideration.

“Personalization is everything and rather than overlooking the floor, homeowners start with a solid foundation so the whole space feels customized,” says Biscan. Whether that means selecting a porcelain tile that is both durable and available in a nearly endless array of styles, opting for an unlikely installation pattern, or even mixing tones and textures, your flooring can tell a lot about your home from the moment guests step inside. So, what do you want it to say? Consider these top flooring trends of 2023 to choose the right fit for your family.

PHOTO: LISA ROMEREIN

Lighter, Brighter Wood Finishes

Wood flooring with character-rich, lighter stains shows no sign of waning in popularity, says Margaret Donaldson, founder of Margaret Donaldson Interiors. “Homeowners are primarily using white oak, but walnut is starting to surface more, especially with lighter finishes,” she says. For those on the coast, engineered wood products are a sound way to get the look, as this material doesn’t see the warping issues one might experience with natural products in a humid climate.

Maximalist Installation

Floors aren’t taking the backseat these days. “More is more, and bigger is better,” says Biscan. “Large-format tile and stone are making a statement with ultra-dramatic natural looks that make your space appear seamless.”

To give your space a high-end finish, Biscan recommends taking large-format floor tile all the way up onto the kitchen backsplash or up a bathroom wall. It provides an unmatched level of luxury that is on trend not only for flooring but overall home design too.

PHOTO: DAVID TSAY

Pattern and Color Play

When it comes to floor colors, muted shades are taking hold. Browns have become a popular alternative to black as they are better suited to play off the tones and materials that are sweeping the design world, like terracotta and shades of green. “Midcentury colors have taken to the West Coast’s sensibility with more sun-washed looks rather than primary palettes,” says Biscan.

While floor colors are taking a softer path, pattern play is still making a splash, particularly checkerboard. “Whether you prefer high contrast looks or a more subtle nod to the trend with lower contrast, the pattern is playful,” Biscan explains.

Neutral Shades

While color trends come and go, neutrals will always have a place in design. But staying neutral doesn’t have to mean playing it safe or skipping character-rich details. Donaldson says the key to making neutrals work now is by utilizing a blend of tones throughout the flooring. “Finishes that are blended with warm and cool tones but also soft satin or matte [finishes] are currently the most popular,” says the designer.

PHOTO: JAMES NATHAN SCHRODER

Textural Interest

“Designers and dreamers alike crave the texture and uniqueness of natural stone,” says Biscan. “Matte and honed stone finishes and artisanal handmade looks enrich a space and tell a style story.” If you prefer the look of wood, you can still set the tone for an inviting space with mattified wood or hand-scraped wood textures. Donaldson also suggests wire brushing as a more popular wood finish. “[It] creates a unique grain and light texture versus smooth,” she explains. It’s all about layering details, whether it’s color, layout, or finish, to create a unique look for your space.

Functionality at the Forefront

Floor trends aren’t all about looks. With so many material and finish options, floors can now meet our durability needs without sacrificing a bit of style. According to Biscan, these aren’t your grandmother’s vinyl and laminate floors. “Performance flooring has paved a new frontier with the most cutting-edge innovation,” she says. “Authentic textures, prints, and enhanced features like sound reduction, waterproof tech, and more keep homeowners coming back to performance flooring to withstand their busy households and lifestyles.”

By Patricia Shannon, Better Homes & Garden Blog; posted April 2023

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04 Jun 2023

Sticky Post By Steve Shinn, CR Posted in Blog, Design, Family, Home Improvements, Lifestyle, Trends Permalink

10 Tips for a More Peaceful Home

Sticky Post By Steve Shinn, CR On June 4, 2023

Maintaining a Zen-like space is about much more than style. It’s about cultivating a more peaceful home where each object has a reason for being present, whether for its beauty, utility, or both.

Here Are 10 Ways to a More Peaceful Home

1. Clear Surfaces Daily

Clutter is a visual distraction. Every time your eyes land on a stack of papers, a tangle of jewelry, or a pile of laundry, some small part of your mind is at work thinking about dealing with said items. If you want a calmer experience at home, a good way to begin is by making it routine to clear all the surfaces in your house daily. When your eye can skim across clean, clear surfaces throughout your home, it also becomes easier to stay focused on the present moment.

Kelly Deck Design

2. Declutter and Get Organized

It’s one thing to clear surfaces; it’s quite another to completely declutter your home. But when you have taken the time to go through every closet, drawer, and cupboard and whittle down your belongings to the ones you truly need, love, or both, a weight lifts. Daily tasks that used to take forever are streamlined; lost items are quickly found; important dates are no longer missed.

Tosti Design

3. Get Some Help if You Need It

Sometimes it’s best to admit you need help and let the pros do what they do best. Hire a professional organizer to help clear that clutter, a decorator to help you tap into your style and get your home looking and feeling just the way you want, or an architect to redesign your space.

Landed Interiors & Homes

4. Incorporate the Five Elements

Don’t stop with potted plants — to really embrace nature in your home, make sure all five elements are represented. They are water (images of water, a fountain, flowers in a bowl of water), earth (stone, plants), fire (candles, incense, fireplace), metal (furniture, tools), and wood (furniture, beams).

Why Slow Living is Good for You and Your Home Environment

The Sitting Room

5. Keep Floors as Clear as Possible

Similar to keeping surfaces clear (see item No. 1), having clean, clear floors is a way to streamline your life and keep your attention on the here and now. If piles of things tend to accumulate on your floors, perhaps it’s because there isn’t a better place for them — if that’s the case, make a home for these items so you won’t be tripping over them anymore. As for the floors themselves, keeping them fresh, clean, and dust free makes for a more pleasant space and helps improve indoor air quality.

Geoff Chick & Associates

6. Use Fewer But More Meaningful Decorations

Instead of binging on inexpensive finds, aim to reduce your decor items to include only the ones that you truly love and that hold meaning for you. A few beautiful objects carefully displayed can be so inspiring — reducing allows you to appreciate what you have even more.

7. Soften Your Lighting

Learn to appreciate natural light and use it more. Even when the light starts to fade in the evening, consider sometimes lighting candles instead of flicking on the overheads. And speaking of overheads, if you haven’t done so yet, swap out all of your regular light switches for dimmers — it makes a world of difference to be able to control the glow.

Nanette Wong

8. Pay Attention to Texture

Do the objects in your home thrill your senses? Consider this as you declutter and whenever you are considering a new purchase. Think of how lovely a chunky, hand-thrown pottery mug feels in the hand versus a machine-made version. Natural materials have some of the best textures — bring more rough jute, nubby linen, cracked old leather, pure silk, and raw wood into your home.

Signature Designs Kitchen | Bath | Interiors

9. Use Natural Scents

Have you ever noticed that some of the most beautiful, inspiring shops usually also smell amazing? Or how just the first whiff of aromatherapy oils in a massage therapist’s office instantly puts you at ease? What you smell can have a surprisingly strong effect on how you feel. Create a purifying, calming atmosphere in your home by eschewing artificial fragrances and choosing natural scents like those from beeswax candles, essential oils, natural cleaning products, and fresh garden flowers instead.

Cohesively Curated

10. Use Everyday Reminders

In meditation practice sometimes a bell is used as a reminder to refocus your attention on the here and now. Create a list of some things you do multiple times each day and pick one of them to use as your own version of a meditation bell. It could be anything, as long as it’s something you do often — adjust the window shades, wash your hands, pour a glass of water, check your email. Whenever you find yourself about to do that thing, take a moment to stop, breathe and simply be present.

Blog is written by Laura Gaskill, Houzz Contributor. About Gaskill: I cover decorating ideas, Houzz tours & the monthly home maintenance checklist. My favorite pieces to write center around the emotional aspects of home and savoring life’s simple pleasures.

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Here Are 10 Ways to a More Peaceful Home

1. Clear Surfaces Daily

2. Declutter and Get Organized

3. Get Some Help if You Need It

4. Incorporate the Five Elements

5. Keep Floors as Clear as Possible

6. Use Fewer But More Meaningful Decorations

7. Soften Your Lighting

8. Pay Attention to Texture

9. Use Natural Scents

10. Use Everyday Reminders

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