The quintessential kitchen flooring surface, ceramic tile is a fail-safe bet for just about any style and budget. Your options for colour, size, shape and pattern are virtually limitless, so you can create the look that suits you best, whether that's sleek and contemporary or lavish Old World. Pros: Ceramic tile stands up to wear and tear, from muddy footprints to spills and splashes, like a champ and is super easy to clean. The huge variety of low-priced options makes it one of the most affordable flooring choices. And thanks to tile's modular, DIY-friendly nature, you can easily come up with a custom pattern even on a tight budget. Cons: Tile can crack as floors settle, and a dish or glass dropped on it is virtually guaranteed to shatter. It also can be cold and hard underfoot, so use a rug or a cushioned mat to offset the discomfort. Moisture makes tile slippery; a honed or textured surface can provide slightly more traction. Grout needs periodic sealing and special cleaning to keep stains at bay. Natural Stone 
Whether they're made from limestone, slate, granite or travertine, natural stone floors have one major asset: their variation. No two pieces of stone have exactly the same colour, pattern or texture, and the differences create a visual depth that's hard to replicate. Stone also creates an elegant, gracious look that instantly makes a kitchen feel more upscale. Pros: Stone floors have been around for centuries, so it doesn't get more classic than this. Like tile and concrete, they're cool underfoot, a boon in hot climates. They're durable and require little day-to-day maintenance. And did we mention the natural beauty? Cons: Stone is expensive and not for the DIY-minded. The tiny crannies in its surface can trap dirt. Scratches and chips can be an issue with softer stone, such as travertine; slate's layers have been known to peel over time. Porous stone will need protective sealing at regular intervals. Solid Wood 
Nature is a terrific artisan — it's tough to match the warmth and charm of solid wood. Even in a space with a lot of moisture and heavy foot traffic, wood can last indefinitely if it's properly treated and cared for. It's a perennial classic, and it develops a rich patina with time and use. Pros: Whether you want thin strips of pale maple or wide planks of pine, there's a wood that will look just right in your kitchen. Wood never goes out of style, so you won't have to worry about updating it as your home evolves. It can be sanded and refinished to keep it looking its best. Cons: You'll have to stay on top of spills; liquids can cause damage if they're not wiped up right away. Wood dents and scratches easily, so it will need periodic refinishing. Although it's not as unyielding as concrete or tile, it also isn't as comfortable as cork or vinyl. Vinyl 
It used to be that vinyl's main advantage was price — it wasn't exactly considered chic. But that's changed: Nowadays this material comes in a sophisticated range of designs and finishes. It's available in sheets or tiles that mimic stone, wood, ceramic tile and more, embossed with textures that look and feel surprisingly realistic. Pros: One of the most inexpensive flooring options on the market, vinyl can approximate the look of pricier materials at a fraction of the cost. It's a snap to clean, easy to patch if a spot gets damaged, and comfortable underfoot. Plus, you can usually install it on your own, which eliminates the expense of hiring a pro. Cons: Vinyl can dent, bubble or curl over time. Sharp objects may tear it, and grit and dirt can scratch and dull its finish. It also can fade in strong sunlight. Compared with other flooring materials, its life span is shorter (it will begin to show wear after five years or so). Linoleum 
People tend to confuse linoleum with vinyl, but it's a completely different substance. A staple through the first half of the 20th century, linoleum — an all-natural material made from linseed oil, resins, wood flour and more — fell out of favour as synthetic flooring came into vogue. But in recent years, its green cred and retro-cool look have caught the attention of ecoconscious consumers and style savants. It's perfect for old-fashioned cottages and midcentury interiors. Pros: Much of linoleum's appeal lies in its versatility. Because it comes in just about every color you can imagine, you can go as subtle or as bold as you want. It can be easily cut into one-of-a-kind patterns, such as the circular motif pictured here. Plus, it's affordable, durable and easy to maintain. Cons: Linoleum can wear and fade with time and use. Many manufacturers add a protective coating before the material is sold; without this coating, the floors may need periodic waxing and polishing. Linoleum is also tricky to work with, so even hardcore DIY-ers will likely need help from a pro. Cork 
Sustainably harvested and all natural, cork has grown in popularity in recent years. While its distinctive look isn't for everyone, people who love it appreciate its strong patterns and texture, its warm look and its ecofriendliness. Pros: Resilient and flexible, cork provides a great deal of comfort underfoot, and it can absorb the shock from a dropped plate or cup (translation: less chance of breakage). It holds warmth and absorbs sound, lending a cozy feel. And it's rich in suberin, a natural substance that guards against mold, mildew, rot and pests. Cons: Cork holds up well, but not without a little TLC. Because dirt and grit can scar it, you'll need to stay on top of sweeping and vacuuming, and you will also need to reseal it regularly with polyurethane or wax. Small dings, such as from a dropped knife, will "heal" on their own, but major scars are harder to fix. Cork also can fade over time. Concrete 
Concrete flooring has come a long way from the days when it was relegated to basements or hidden under carpeting. Its star has risen in the design world because of its edginess and industrial-chic look. No longer does a concrete floor mean a dull swath of gray; today, it can be stained, stamped, scored or acid etched for visual panache. Pros: Concrete stays cool even in the hottest weather, so it's ideal for warm climates. It's virtually indestructible, no matter what you spill on it or drag across it. And if you get tired of the look, you'll have a ready-made subfloor for carpeting, tile or another surface. Cons: Concrete is difficult to work with, so you'll almost certainly need professional installation. As with tile and stone, concrete can be unforgiving on feet. It's porous, so sealing is a must to ward off stains — especially in a high-traffic area such as a kitchen. And some folks find it just plain cold. Laminate 
Laminate flooring, which is composed of several layers of engineered material sandwiched together, is designed to imitate the look of wood or tile. It resists scratches and scuffs, thanks to an internal "wear layer," so it's great for homeowners whose kitchens must contend with small kids, pets or extremely heavy use. Pros: Laminate requires very little maintenance — just sweep and damp-mop. It's easy to find in "floating," or glueless, versions that make DIY installation a breeze. Costs generally are moderate. Cons: Although it may look like wood or tile from a distance, it won't substitute for the depth and texture of those substances. Unlike wood, laminate can't be refinished — if it starts showing its age, it will need to be replaced completely. Bamboo 
Although bamboo looks like wood, it's actually a grass. So you might be surprised at how durable bamboo flooring can be. Its density allows it to stand up to busy spaces and active lifestyles. It has become popular in recent years not only for its sturdiness, but also for its affordability relative to hardwood and for its subtle, variegated appearance. Pros: Bamboo grows so quickly that it's considered a sustainable choice for green building. It's low maintenance, requiring no special care, and springier underfoot than wood. And it lends a touch of worldly style without the expense of a tropical or other exotic hardwood. Cons: The range of colour choices is narrower than with traditional woods. It isn't as moisture resistant as many other materials — in high-humidity climates or spaces, it can warp. Much of the bamboo on the market is imported from countries that may have less stringent quality regulations than in the United States, so it's important to research sources. As you can see there are a number of different alternatives to consider for you and your home. Have a great weeeknd and talk soon....
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.
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
talk soon...
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...
