To help you with your decision making we have put together a list of the various styles and designs that you can use with your kitchen.
Shaker.
The Shaker style cabinet door is the most common door style in kitchens today. This five-piece flat-panel style has a frame made from four pieces and a single flat centre panel for the fifth piece.
Shaker cabinetry gets its name from the distinctive Shaker furniture style, which uses simple, clean lines and emphasizes utility. Shaker-style doors became popular because their simple style lends itself to just about any decor — from contemporary to traditional — with variations in wood species, stains, paint colours and hardware.
This classic style can work with a variety of budgets, depending on the wood used.
Louvered.
Horizontal wood slats are typically used on windows, furniture pieces and interior doors, but they add a distinct architectural style to kitchen cabinetry. However, be aware that these beauties come with a heavy price tag.
Many louvered doors have spaces between each slat, making them great for cabinets that require ventilation — like a cabinet near a radiator, a dedicated clothes drying cabinet in a laundry room or cabinetry for cable boxes and DVD players.
Flat.
Simple but stylish, the flat-panel cabinet door is void of any expensive details. Its hard lines and minimalist form make it a great fit for contemporary and modern interiors.
Many flat doors come in decorative laminate or wood. Laminate tends to be more budget friendly and offers a greater variety of colours and sheens.
Inset.
Although this style tends to be one of the most expensive on the market, it's a classic look that will last for generations. The inset door gets its name because it is set inside of the cabinet frame — typical cabinet doors rest on the outside of the frame. The door is designed and constructed with extremely precise measurements so that it nests inside the frame and opens and closes properly, even when the wood expands and contracts.
This door style usually requires exposed hinges rather than the typical concealed hinges of other door styles that are included in the cost of the cabinet box. Make sure that your budget takes this into account — two hinges per door will quickly add up.
Distressed.
If you've always dreamed of having an antique-style kitchen, then you'll love the distressed-looking cabinets available from most manufacturers. Choose any door style and opt to have the corners rubbed off or have other distressing techniques done for that age-old feeling.
Beadboard.
Love cottage style? It doesn't get more cottage chic than beadboard. The centre panel of the cabinet doors in this style are made to look like traditional beadboard panelling. Beadboard was used in the past as a decorative wall treatment before plaster, drywall and paint became common.
While all-white beadboard cabinetry can give your kitchen a bright and clean feel, all the little cracks and crevasses on this door style can be a pain to keep clean.
Thermofoil.
These doors are molded out of MDF (medium-density fibreboard), wrapped in a plastic-type coating and then baked under intense heat to create an impervious seal. Durable and cost effective, they come only in solid colours and imitation wood grain.
It's durable, but it's also extremely difficult to repair any damage to it. Some lighter colours can also yellow from sunlight and heat over time.
As you can see the style of your cabinet doors will be an individual thing to suit your tastes and stlyes and how you want your kitchen to look.
Have a great week and we will talk soon.
Efficient design but counter space is limited and foot traffic can be disruptive. L-shaped 
No foot traffic crosses work triangle and lots of counter space. U-Shaped 
An island can be included if the U is big enough. G-Shaped 
Lots of counter space, can link to dining area with common counter surface. In larger kitchens an island can break up space. For good traffic flow islands should have at least 3 or 4 feet of aisle on each side. Never put an island in a kitchen where 2 points of the work triangle are on opposite walls as it will get in the way. Always remember your work triangle. Have a good week and we will talk soon...
Such are the advancements with cabinet hardware you will be surprised at how much space you can maximise. Determine Your Kitchen’s Functions Take advantage of every inch by working as much detail as possible into your kitchen plan from the beginning. Deciding a cabinet's function depends on its proximity to other appliances and its size — once you've decided where major plumbing fixtures and appliances will go and know exactly how much space you have, you can determine which cabinet should hold dishes and which should hold wine. Silverware drawers make for easy clean up when they're near the sink and dishwasher. Spices set in a drawer close to the cooktop can make cooking easier. Keep everyday items near the sink or prep area, where you'll be using them the most. Items used less frequently can be placed farther from the main work triangle. Use handy cabinet organizers and inserts to make the purpose of each drawer and cabinet clear. Trash pullouts, sponge trays and silverware organizers can be very helpful. At the same time, keep in mind that you can mix and match items in cabinets and drawers too — there's no strict rule on dividing things up. Cabinet or Drawer? Although cabinets often cost less than drawers, architects all agree that deep and wide drawers tend to be more useful. They allow you to use the entire depth of a space and are easier to use.
Kitchen Storage
Such are the advancements with cabinet hardware you will be surprised at how much space you can maximise.
Determine Your Kitchen’s Functions
Take advantage of every inch by working as much detail as possible into your kitchen plan from the beginning.
Deciding a cabinet's function depends on its proximity to other appliances and its size — once you've decided where major plumbing fixtures and appliances will go and know exactly how much space you have, you can determine which cabinet should hold dishes and which should hold wine.
Silverware drawers make for easy clean up when they're near the sink and dishwasher.
Spices set in a drawer close to the cooktop can make cooking easier.
Keep everyday items near the sink or prep area, where you'll be using them the most. Items used less frequently can be placed farther from the main work triangle.
Use handy cabinet organizers and inserts to make the purpose of each drawer and cabinet clear. Trash pullouts, sponge trays and silverware organizers can be very helpful.
At the same time, keep in mind that you can mix and match items in cabinets and drawers too — there's no strict rule on dividing things up.
Cabinet or Drawer?
Although cabinets often cost less than drawers, architects all agree that deep and wide drawers tend to be more useful. They allow you to use the entire depth of a space and are easier to use.
Deciding whether to use a cabinet or drawer in undercounter kitchen storage is often determined by the available width. If space allows, use a wide and deep drawer. But in smaller spaces, a cabinet can work better. Don't forget to use narrow banks of drawers too — they can be great for nice silverware and table linens.
Maximizing Storage and Space
While eliminating storage — particularly upper cabinets — tends to be the best way to visually open a kitchen, it's still possible to get the storage you need and the open feel you want. In general, maximizing storage can often make a kitchen feel more open because there will be less countertop clutter.
One suggestion is to devote one wall entirely to full-height storage, opening up space for a counter and getting rid of the need for upper cabinetry throughout.
Playing with drawer and counter heights can add more storage space too. Make use of the leftover space beside deep refrigerators by deepening upper cabinets and counters, and taking cabinets all the way to the ceiling.
Keep your countertop, island and cabinetry lined up and simple in design.
Linear alignments will make the room feel longer, as there are fewer visual interruptions to catch the eye.
When you visit your kitchen manufacturer they should be able to guide you on the new drawers and runners that you can get. That way you will really be upgrading your kitchen to save you time in the long run.
talk soon...
What type of lighting works best in the kitchen?
Since the kitchen is both a social atmosphere and a workspace, you want a mixture of ambient and task lighting. Ambient lights will set the mood with a soft, overhead glow, while task lights will focus stronger light over an island or countertop.
The key is balancing the two sources so the kitchen is as warm and inviting as it is functional.
What types of ambient lighting should you consider?
There are several different types to fit your style, all of which are generally ceiling-mounted.
Try recessed for a clean, flush look, or track so you can adjust each fixture accordingly.
To make a decorative statement, opt for pendants or chandeliers instead; they still spread the light but also help personalize the space.
What types of task lighting are there to choose from?
Like ambient light fixtures, many styles are available for task lighting.
Under-cabinet lights ensure that your countertop space is well lit; puck lights or fluorescent strips will both do the trick.
Pendants can also be used for tasks, as long as they are well placed in the space. In a larger kitchen, an island light covers the middle of the room and ensures safe food prep.
What other lighting considerations should I keep in mind?
Try to choose fixtures that are easy to clean, durable and can hold high-wattage bulbs for maximum light.
Kitchens are high traffic areas with fluctuating heat levels and ingredients that can affect the quality if your fixtures over time.
Your fixture must be able to withstand the elements while providing your kitchen with adequate light.
As you can see there are a number of options for lighting. Always the activity that will occur in your kitchen and the activities you and your family will be involved in.
There is a lot to consider with every kitchen renovation
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You now have the ability to have integrated appliances that effectively blend in with your kitchen. Why would you chose a fridge that is all stainless steel and stands out like everything. Why not consider an integrated fridge or a fridge that is black or white that has a glass panel on the front? This will add a touch of style and sophitication to your kitchen.
You now have the ability to have integrated appliances that effectively blend in with your kitchen. Why would you chose a fridge that is all stainless steel and stands out like everything. Why not consider an integrated fridge or a fridge that is black or white that has a glass panel on the front? This will add a touch of style and sophitication to your kitchen.
At this point you can consider the variety of alternatives that are open to you:
As the kitchen combines water, electricity, plumbing confirming your appliances early in the process will allow you to have your plans reflect wiring, drainage and water supply.
Here you will select the appliances you desire and that reflect the living requirements of you and your family and not dictated by set plans.
One of the most important areas of the house is the kitchen. You must plan the prearrangement of the kitchen appliances well in advance while designing the kitchen. This would enable you to save a lot of space and avoid unwanted clutter in the cooking area. Every kitchen is unique and distinct on its own accord and each kitchen requirement is different.
Therefore, it is primarily essential for you to analyze your priorities in the kitchen before creating a separate place for the appliances. The kitchen should be designed in such a way so that there is an easy accessibility to the sink, stove and refrigerator. A triangular arrangement of these appliances would help you work in the kitchen with ease.
You could place the dishwasher next to the sink, as it would help you load the dishes and rinse them with ease. The counter under the sink can hold the trash bins. This would not only save space but also keep the area covered and allow easy cleaning of the dishes after meals. The wine coolers should be placed in the corner of the counters so that they can be picked up easily.
The wall mounted ovens should be placed in such a strategic place where there are no hindrances to open or close the oven doors. There should also be sufficient space below the oven to place the hot dishes immediately after drawing them out.
Other smaller appliances, which you would use only occasionally, can be placed in the cupboards and can be retrieved when easily. This way the counter would be clutter free and spacious, which would enable you to work with ease.
Appliances should not be the last thing you do as they are an important part of your kitchen and you will prepare many an important meal for you family and friends with your appliances.
Have a good week.
Talk soon....
Stainless Steel Once found mostly in commercial kitchens, stainless steel has slipped into vogue within the past two decades. These countertops are custom made to fit your kitchen, so you're guaranteed a tailored look. Pros: There's a reason stainless steel is used in restaurants and other high-traffic kitchens: It's nearly indestructible, and it resists heat and bacteria.It also provides a very distinctive look that feels appropriate in contemporary and industrial-style kitchens. Cons: Fingerprints show and must be wiped off frequently, and stainless steel can also dent. It can be loud as pots, pans and dishware clang against the surface. Chemicals can affect its color and cause unwanted etching. Stainless steel is extremely expensive due to the custom fabrication. Concrete Think concrete is just for floors? Think again. Slightly edgier than other materials, concrete countertops have an industrial chic that fits right into a loft or adds interest to an otherwise traditional space. Pros: Concrete is extremely versatile: It can be cast in any shape and custom tinted any shade you wish. You easily can add unique inlays, such as glass fragments, rocks and shells. Concrete stands up well to heavy use, although it isn't as heat resistant as some other surfaces. Cons: Because it's porous, concrete will stain without frequent sealing. With time and settling, small cracks can develop. Concrete is extremely heavy and will need strong support beneath. Like stainless steel, its custom creation ups the price tag. Butcher Block Butcher block has a classic appeal and always looks fresh. It's especially fitting for traditional, country and cottage-style kitchens. Pros: Many homeowners like butcher block's warm, natural appearance and variegated wood tones. Although knives scratch it, many people like the shopworn look it develops — after all, it's what chopping blocks have been made of for years. But you can also sand scratches down with ease. Cons: Wood swells and contracts with moisture exposure, and butcher block is no exception. It harbors bacteria and needs frequent disinfecting. Oiling is a must to fill in scratches and protect the surface. Paper Composite Paper countertops? You read it right. Created from paper fibers mixed with resin, this surface is ecofriendly and a whole lot more durable than it sounds. Pros: Paper composite evokes the look of solid surfacing or laminate but with a warmer sensibility. It's surprisingly hardy and can withstand heat and water admirably. It's also a great deal lighter than natural stone or concrete. Cons: The material isn't scratchproof and is susceptible to chemical damage. It needs an occasional rubdown with mineral oil, and even sanding, to refresh it. Although it sounds as though it would be a lower-budget option, it isn't (unless you install it yourself). I look forward to any comments or feedback you have on the various materiasl you have used. Good luck with your renovation. Have a great week. talk soon...
Stainless Steel
Once found mostly in commercial kitchens, stainless steel has slipped into vogue within the past two decades. These countertops are custom made to fit your kitchen, so you're guaranteed a tailored look.
Pros: There's a reason stainless steel is used in restaurants and other high-traffic kitchens: It's nearly indestructible, and it resists heat and bacteria.It also provides a very distinctive look that feels appropriate in contemporary and industrial-style kitchens.
Cons: Fingerprints show and must be wiped off frequently, and stainless steel can also dent. It can be loud as pots, pans and dishware clang against the surface. Chemicals can affect its color and cause unwanted etching. Stainless steel is extremely expensive due to the custom fabrication.
Concrete
Think concrete is just for floors? Think again. Slightly edgier than other materials, concrete countertops have an industrial chic that fits right into a loft or adds interest to an otherwise traditional space.
Pros: Concrete is extremely versatile: It can be cast in any shape and custom tinted any shade you wish. You easily can add unique inlays, such as glass fragments, rocks and shells. Concrete stands up well to heavy use, although it isn't as heat resistant as some other surfaces.
Cons: Because it's porous, concrete will stain without frequent sealing. With time and settling, small cracks can develop. Concrete is extremely heavy and will need strong support beneath. Like stainless steel, its custom creation ups the price tag.
Butcher Block
Butcher block has a classic appeal and always looks fresh. It's especially fitting for traditional, country and cottage-style kitchens.
Pros: Many homeowners like butcher block's warm, natural appearance and variegated wood tones. Although knives scratch it, many people like the shopworn look it develops — after all, it's what chopping blocks have been made of for years. But you can also sand scratches down with ease.
Cons: Wood swells and contracts with moisture exposure, and butcher block is no exception. It harbors bacteria and needs frequent disinfecting. Oiling is a must to fill in scratches and protect the surface.
Paper Composite
Paper countertops? You read it right. Created from paper fibers mixed with resin, this surface is ecofriendly and a whole lot more durable than it sounds.
Pros: Paper composite evokes the look of solid surfacing or laminate but with a warmer sensibility. It's surprisingly hardy and can withstand heat and water admirably. It's also a great deal lighter than natural stone or concrete.
Cons: The material isn't scratchproof and is susceptible to chemical damage. It needs an occasional rubdown with mineral oil, and even sanding, to refresh it. Although it sounds as though it would be a lower-budget option, it isn't (unless you install it yourself).
I look forward to any comments or feedback you have on the various materiasl you have used.
Good luck with your renovation.
Have a great week.
talk soon...
Tile Modular and inexpensive, ceramic and porcelain tile offers nearly limitless options for colours and designs. Tile works with almost any kitchen style, from country to majestic Old World. Pros: It holds its own against heat and sharp blades, and resists stains. If one or two tiles chip or crack, they're fairly easy to replace. Cons: Tile's uneven surface can make it difficult to balance a cutting board or roll out a pie crust. Unsealed grout is prone to staining; standing moisture can damage it and contribute to bacterial growth. Laminate Made of paper blended with resins and fused to particle board, laminate has been a kitchen mainstay for decades. In the past, it hasn't always had a reputation as stylish, but that's changing: The latest designs on the market mimic stone, butcher block and other pricier surfaces. Pros: Laminate is one of the most affordable countertop materials, so it's a good choice if your budget is tight. It's low maintenance and easy to clean. Its light weight doesn't require the support of a thick cabinet base. Cons: Laminate is prone to scratching, burns and, in some cases, staining. With wear and moisture exposure, the layers can peel. Because of the raw particle board core, you can't use laminate with undermount sinks, and it's also difficult to repair if it gets damaged. Soapstone Although it's in no danger of overtaking granite, soapstone has come into its own as a countertop material. It offers subtle, nuanced beauty yet feels humbler than granite or marble. Pros: Soapstone has a natural softness and depth that fits very well with older and cottage-style homes. Although it usually starts out light to medium gray, it darkens with time. (Most people enjoy the acquired patina, but you may consider this a con.) Cons: Soapstone needs polishing with oil to keep it in top shape. It can crack over time, and it can't handle knife scratches and nicks as well as some other types of stone. The natural roughness of its surface can scuff glassware and china. I hope this review was able to give you some good ideas and thoughts for your kitchen renovation. We will finalsie this seroes on Friday when we review another 4 materials that you can use. Have a great week. talk soon
Tile
Modular and inexpensive, ceramic and porcelain tile offers nearly limitless options for colours and designs. Tile works with almost any kitchen style, from country to majestic Old World.
Pros: It holds its own against heat and sharp blades, and resists stains. If one or two tiles chip or crack, they're fairly easy to replace.
Cons: Tile's uneven surface can make it difficult to balance a cutting board or roll out a pie crust. Unsealed grout is prone to staining; standing moisture can damage it and contribute to bacterial growth.
Laminate
Made of paper blended with resins and fused to particle board, laminate has been a kitchen mainstay for decades. In the past, it hasn't always had a reputation as stylish, but that's changing: The latest designs on the market mimic stone, butcher block and other pricier surfaces.
Pros: Laminate is one of the most affordable countertop materials, so it's a good choice if your budget is tight. It's low maintenance and easy to clean. Its light weight doesn't require the support of a thick cabinet base.
Cons: Laminate is prone to scratching, burns and, in some cases, staining. With wear and moisture exposure, the layers can peel. Because of the raw particle board core, you can't use laminate with undermount sinks, and it's also difficult to repair if it gets damaged.
Soapstone
Although it's in no danger of overtaking granite, soapstone has come into its own as a countertop material. It offers subtle, nuanced beauty yet feels humbler than granite or marble.
Pros: Soapstone has a natural softness and depth that fits very well with older and cottage-style homes. Although it usually starts out light to medium gray, it darkens with time. (Most people enjoy the acquired patina, but you may consider this a con.)
Cons: Soapstone needs polishing with oil to keep it in top shape. It can crack over time, and it can't handle knife scratches and nicks as well as some other types of stone. The natural roughness of its surface can scuff glassware and china.
I hope this review was able to give you some good ideas and thoughts for your kitchen renovation. We will finalsie this seroes on Friday when we review another 4 materials that you can use.
Have a great week.
talk soon