https://www.custom-kitchen-cabinet-design.com/cabinetry-blog.html The Custom Kitchen Blog keeps you up-to-date with all additions and changes to the custom-kitchen-cabinet-design Web Site as Plan Your Perfect Kitchen. Subscribe here. en-us kitchen cabinet Sun, 14 Dec 2025 01:36:03 -0500 Sun, 14 Dec 2025 01:36:03 -0500 custom-kitchen-cabinet-design.com https://www.custom-kitchen-cabinet-design.com/cabinetry-blog.html#How-a-US-manufacturer-and-London-designer-created-a-luxury-cabinet-branda0a62da4cb830f8786446ed8f1bb11dfNEW YORK — Bakes & Kropp, a luxury cabinetry brand founded in 2014, has been developing a model that merges European design culture with U.S. manufacturing. Founded in 2014 by London-trained designer Bob Bakes and Michigan craftsman Paul Kropp, the company was built around a shared belief that high-end residential cabinetry requires both aesthetic discipline and manufacturing rigor, not one or the other. Bakes established his career in the UK, refining an approach centered on proportion, restraint, and architectural balance. Kropp, working an ocean away, built his reputation on the opposite end of the process: hand-building bespoke furniture and cabinetry with a detail-driven, workshop-first mindset. “We combine the precision of modern machinery with the craftsmanship of traditional techniques,” Kropp says. Bakes adds, "There's a human flavor that sort of flows through our designs. Our guys are hand-staining and joining and... There's an organic nature to our manufacturing process. Customers should always feel that they're getting a personal piece." Their Detroit-area facility, now approaching 70,000 square feet after a recent expansion, runs on an internally developed process called BK-ECP (Efficient Custom Production). Kropp describes the model as "combining our core values with simple concepts of flow and preparedness to do custom work in a very efficient manner while maintaining the highest quality levels." In just over a decade, Bakes & Kropp has expanded from a single showroom to six, and from 10 employees to about 60. “I think it's the small things that make a successful cabinet company,” Bakes says. “For example, we have our own delivery network, and we don't employ subcontractors. From a perspective of a cabinetry company, we wanted to be as self-contained as possible so we come across as a recognizable brand. Adding on to that, we wanted to be self-fulfilling in the design aspect as well. We can't just supply cabinetry; you have to have a vision of a successful company that flows through our manufacturing facility and our showrooms." One way that the company fulfills this successful vision is through quality control. “Everyone is a quality inspector in our facilities,” Kropp says, adding more details about the companies ECP method. “And we do a full checklist inspection of everything before it is packaged.” Bakes supports this statement, adding that the manufacturing process is a people-centric workflow and crucial to the Bakes & Kropp identity. Looking ahead, the company anticipates steady growth, targeting approximately 12% annual growth over the next five years. With the latest facility expansion complete, Bakes & Kropp plans to focus on refining operations and strengthening current markets. “Maybe we will see one new market expansion in the next few years but the focus is more on filling out the markets we currently have and taking care of our employees," Kropp adds. "Employees are the #1 key to success." Sun, 14 Dec 2025 01:15:00 -0500 https://www.custom-kitchen-cabinet-design.com/cabinetry-blog.html#Architecture-at-the-Speed-of-Disaster376161527bda6bfb1072f806871d8414DXA Studio’s modular homes for Lahaina wildfire survivors prove that emergency housing can deliver dignity, beauty, and permanence—not just shelter. When the deadliest U.S. wildfire in a century tore through Lahaina, Hawaii, in August 2023, housing survivors became the state’s most urgent design brief. Today, nearly 170 factory-made housing units offer shelter to the displaced with more units to yet to come. They’re situated along a stretch of Maui coastline—small, bright colored dwellings that look permanent and communal. That’s by design. New York-based DXA Studio launched Liv-Connected with the goal of deploying disaster-relief housing that doesn’t sacrifice design, health, or durability. In Maui, the result is FEMA’s first prefabricated, modular temporary homes built to the International Building Code and local amendments. One-, two-, and three-bedroom units meet Uniform Federal Accessibility Standards (UFAS), are fully furnished on delivery, and can serve as either interim or permanent housing. “We have thoughtfully designed the homes so they are comfortable and functional enough to become permanent, and the families affected by the fires deserve to have a comfortable, safe home to recover in,” says Wayne Norbeck, co-founding partner of DXA Studio and Liv-Connected. Inside the homes, Liv-Connected specified low- to no-emitting materials, generous daylight, and cross-ventilation to support indoor-air quality and thermal comfort in a tropical climate. A warm palette and high ceilings keep the small footprints from feeling cramped; windows are sized and placed to frame views and keep residents connected to the landscape. The Conexus line uses Liv-Connected’s Component Linked Construction (CLiC System)—a kit-of-parts strategy that locks repeatable elements (structure, MEP, smart tech) into a manufacturing flow, then allows finish and plan variations. That modular approach reduces rework, absorbs supply variability, and keeps field labor focused on siting and hook-ups rather than stick-building. For public clients, the predictability is as important as speed: fewer unknowns, fewer change orders, and better odds of hitting deadlines when a community is still displaced. Fri, 31 Oct 2025 11:00:00 -0400 https://www.custom-kitchen-cabinet-design.com/cabinetry-blog.html#Where-Housing-Inventory-Grows-Sales-Follow7612265ab241d5daa514dd2897a61fdcKey Points: * Existing-home sales are projected to end 2024 higher than one year ago. * Housing supply has increased in 34 of the top 50 markets we track on a year-over-year basis. * Our analysis suggests a strong and positive relationship between increasing new listings and improving sales. Despite a year marked by elevated interest rates and the persistent rate lock-in effect, the housing market is showing signs of mild recovery. Our latest Existing-Home Sales Outlook Report indicates that existing-home sales are projected to conclude 2024 slightly above 4 million annualized sales, surpassing December 2023 levels, but still trailing historical norms. The year-over-year increase is partly attributed to an increase in inventory.(opens in a new tab/window) Nationally, for-sale inventory1 is 19 percent higher than one year ago but remains nearly 26 percent lower than pre-pandemic, November 2019 levels. New listings2 in November were just 0.5 percent higher than a year ago, and 16.3 percent lower compared to November 2019. However, real estate is local and it’s important to note that the growth in listings has not been uniform across the country. Moreover, not all housing inventory is created equal. What’s Inventory Got to Do With It? One unique factor about the housing market is that the seller and the buyer are, in many cases, the same – the existing homeowner. In order to buy a new home, you have to sell the home you already own, and then find a home to buy, but not just any home – one that you like better. The fewer homes there are for sale, the harder it becomes to find a home better than what you already own. Therefore, a lack of inventory doesn’t just prevent first-time home buyers from jumping into the market, but it also keeps existing homeowners staying put and limits existing-home sales. The opposite is also true. According to Zillow’s new listings metric, housing supply has increased in 34 of the top 50 markets we track on a year-over-year basis. Using the U.S. Census Bureau’s definition of the four U.S. regions, the strongest growth in new listings is in Southern and Western markets, and more muted improvements occurred in the Northeast and Midwest. Thu, 30 Oct 2025 01:51:00 -0400 https://www.custom-kitchen-cabinet-design.com/cabinetry-blog.html#Meet-the-African-architect-making-Africa-great-again-by-building-cities-that-cost-nothing070fcadda7b7f440d239ea1f2c1957d2Across Africa’s skylines, from Dakar to Lomé, one name consistently echoes in conversations about modern architecture: Pierre Goudiaby Atepa. A trailblazing Senegalese engineer, architect, and businessman, Atepa has not only influenced the physical architecture of the continent but has also been a strong proponent of sustainable urban development, Africa-centered design, and economic independence. Born on June 30, 1947, in Ziguinchor, southern Senegal, Pierre Goudiaby Atepa’s story is one of perseverance, talent, and purpose.Atepa received a scholarship to study in the United States and attended the Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in New York, which he highlighted during an exclusive with Business Insider Africa on the sidelines of the Fii Senegal 2025 investment Forum. “As far as architecture is concerned, I was fortunate enough to study in one of the greatest architectural schools, which is the Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, upstate New York. I graduated back in 1973. I was very lucky,” he stated. Subsequently, his passion for constructing architectural masterpieces intensified, leading him to immediately undertake the construction of Senegal’s tallest building, the BCEAO Headquarters, in a competition. Thu, 30 Oct 2025 01:15:00 -0400 https://www.custom-kitchen-cabinet-design.com/kitchen-consultation.html8679f055b87c9452f25f13dfd5da5ddcIf you would like a Consultation for your project please fill out our form. Sat, 25 Oct 2025 22:05:47 -0400 https://www.custom-kitchen-cabinet-design.com/kitchen-style.html721caf5aa317903bf2eedf34ba3d9b4dChoosing your kitchen style can be confusing. Let's see what your choices are. Sat, 25 Oct 2025 22:05:34 -0400 https://www.custom-kitchen-cabinet-design.com/kitchen-design-ideas.html61b0e78808adb1e862ff0c64705127b2Before a kitchen remodel create a checklist and gather kitchen design ideas. What do you dislike most about your present kitchen? What do you like most about your present kitchen? Sat, 25 Oct 2025 22:05:14 -0400 https://www.custom-kitchen-cabinet-design.com/kosher-kitchen.html99ca05d686464315282cfba39961785eA Rabbi is an expert on Jewish Law and would be perfect to design a kosher kitchen. Sat, 25 Oct 2025 22:04:58 -0400 https://www.custom-kitchen-cabinet-design.com/kitchen-layout.html88a60b7ff82f84cc1d8b7c707dccf532When it comes to a kitchen layout...form follows function. here are some basic shapes. Sat, 25 Oct 2025 22:03:34 -0400 https://www.custom-kitchen-cabinet-design.com/kitchen-budget.htmle35400aa97eed2b7857f65f5725a9308Control your kitchen budget. The most important part of any remodeling project is to make sure you don't go over budget. Sat, 25 Oct 2025 22:02:52 -0400 https://www.custom-kitchen-cabinet-design.com/kitchen-plan.htmlc84bfa9af9b40ba305664a85f404c363Let's Draw a Kitchen Plan.The Most Important Part of Designing a Kitchen is the Planning. Sat, 25 Oct 2025 22:02:37 -0400 https://www.custom-kitchen-cabinet-design.com/kitchen-planner.html5304adee84385d3d1262ae1c6e9daa14This kitchen project planner will take you through every stage of creating that perfect space. Get started with your Dream Kitchen Now!!! Sat, 25 Oct 2025 22:02:00 -0400 https://www.custom-kitchen-cabinet-design.com/kitchen-design-questionnaire.htmlc4535c7e99cdf32d5f7ce6b3422352b9Kitchens are highly complex rooms that serve many different functions. To best meet your expectations, we need to know about your lifestyle needs, and desires. Sat, 25 Oct 2025 22:01:27 -0400 https://www.custom-kitchen-cabinet-design.com/cabinets.htmlb098e998e4b4ff52b4d4c72ec2799223Stock, Semi-Custom, and Custom cabinetry fully explained in the ABC's of cabinets. Sat, 25 Oct 2025 22:00:26 -0400 https://www.custom-kitchen-cabinet-design.com/luxury-kitchen-design.htmlfcd18b695f5e5aa68fb8ebe974d24523Who Else Wants a Beautiful Luxury Kitchen?
Sat, 25 Oct 2025 22:00:04 -0400 https://www.custom-kitchen-cabinet-design.com/kitchen-design.html55e6cd5db06da19687a3853dafe1a7aaA new kitchen design means you need to learn all you can. Ask yourself questions about your lifestyle, needs and desires. Sat, 25 Oct 2025 21:58:31 -0400 https://www.custom-kitchen-cabinet-design.com/architectural-interiors.htmlbb5cb95d92bd4e484bbf124bfdd87cd5At Architectural Interiors we plan perfect luxury kitchens for architects, interior designers, deveopers, builders, remodelers and select homeowners. Sat, 25 Oct 2025 21:56:59 -0400 https://www.custom-kitchen-cabinet-design.com/cabinet-finishes.html481b4db33c01a356b4163ac0f6ac3d3eCabinetry is finished like furniture for the home with multi-step processes. The quality of the finish should not be ignored by discerning consumers. Sat, 25 Oct 2025 21:56:14 -0400 https://www.custom-kitchen-cabinet-design.com/cabinet-doors-drawers.htmldd9188bb4b03ac42465b29c0826c50e1Cabinetry door and drawer style selection is one of the key factors that separates the quality and price levels of cabnetry. Sat, 25 Oct 2025 21:55:43 -0400 https://www.custom-kitchen-cabinet-design.com/traditional-luxury-kitchen.html36af1aa4d452781012462b35b8c93fadTraditional kitchens have a formal, elegant look characteristic of American and European homes of the 18th, 19th and early 20th centuries.
Sat, 25 Oct 2025 21:53:44 -0400 https://www.custom-kitchen-cabinet-design.com/stock-semi-custom-cabinetry.html82f36e1cf6616724915538d4c146c32dChoosing new kitchen cabinets can be a difficult decision for many homeowners. Stock, semi-custom, full custom, local custom. What does it all mean? Sat, 25 Oct 2025 21:52:28 -0400 https://www.custom-kitchen-cabinet-design.com/cabinetry-blog.html#Construction-Hammers-Down-Housing-Costs-Ahead-of-Spring-Home-Buying-Season0f9642b467614b3f24d0cd639712a33fKey Points: * Increased residential construction activity, especially in the South, is improving affordability in certain markets. * Housing supply has surged in the South, with over half of the 1.5 million building permits issued in 2024 located the region. * Our analysis shows a strong correlation between new-home construction and home prices, with elevated construction activity leading to slower price appreciation or price declines. Spring ushers in the start of the annual home-buying season, with more listings blooming in early spring than at any other time of year. During the spring and summer months, housing supply and demand both rise as buyers and sellers take advantage of favorable weather, school schedules, and holidays to make their moves. As we approach the spring housing market of 2025, the question remains whether it will roar like a lion or pass meekly like a lamb?(opens in a new tab/window) Housing supply shortages continue to pose a challenge nationwide, as many homeowners struggle to find a suitable upgrade from their current home, while first-time buyers face ongoing affordability constraints and limited inventory at the entry-level price tier. However, real estate is inherently local, and supply dynamics are no exception. Our analysis of recent regional construction trends suggests the degree to which the market is a lion or lamb will be influenced by recent homebuilding trends. Raising Roofs to Improve Housing Affordability In the housing market, you can't buy what's not for sale – and with existing-home sales hovering near their lowest level since the late 1990s(opens in a new tab/window), home buyers nationwide will likely continue to face limited availability this spring and summer. This lack of supply makes it harder for first-time homebuyers to jump into the market and also hurts existing homeowners looking to buy their next home. Additionally, with elevated mortgage rates and affordability challenges, many potential buyers won’t be able to afford a home even if they find one, keeping a lid on market normalization. Homebuilders have kept their hammers busy to help narrow the inventory gap, especially in certain markets. Buyers in these markets will have more opportunities to find affordable options during the 2025 spring home-buying season. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, nearly 1.5 million building permits(opens in a new tab/window) were issued for privately-owned housing units in 2024, including single-family homes and multi-unit properties like duplexes and triplexes. However, this building surge has not been evenly distributed across the country. Over half of the permits, 53 percent or 803,000 units, issued in 2024 were in the South, more than double the number issued in any other Census region. Sun, 23 Mar 2025 01:27:00 -0400 https://www.custom-kitchen-cabinet-design.com/cabinetry-blog.html#The-Heart-of-the-Home-How-Luxury-Kitchens-Are-Evolving-in-20256c9832f99d468dee7137ba053ac78a08Exploring the Psychological Impact of Kitchen Design on Well-being, with Insights from Globe & De Blasio Chester, United Kingdom, March 10, 2025 -- In 2025, the kitchen is not just the heart of the home—it’s emerging as the mind of the home. As we spend more time at home and increasingly prioritize mental well-being, the way we design our kitchens is having a profound impact on our mood, creativity, and overall mental health. From layout and lighting to material choices and ergonomics, the design of this central space is now recognized as essential to our daily quality of life. New research reveals that well-designed kitchens can reduce stress, increase social cohesion, and boost productivity. Globe & De Blasio, luxury kitchen design specialists based in Chester, are leading the charge in showcasing how design psychology is reshaping the kitchen as we know it. The Role of Design Psychology Psychology plays a pivotal role in how we interact with spaces. Kitchens, traditionally known for being the family hub, are now becoming spaces that foster mental clarity and relaxation. Globe & De Blasio has explored how specific design elements—from the layout to the choice of materials—can influence everything from stress levels to creativity. For example, open-plan kitchens that promote social interaction are shown to help reduce feelings of isolation, fostering connection and communication. Additionally, biophilic design—incorporating natural elements such as plants, wood, and stone—has been scientifically linked to reduced anxiety and improved mood. The integration of such elements into the kitchen space is becoming a key trend in luxury homes, as more homeowners realize that the design of their home can support both physical and mental health. Tue, 11 Mar 2025 03:07:00 -0400 https://www.custom-kitchen-cabinet-design.com/cabinetry-blog.html#Gaggenau-Boffi-Mark-Their-Collaboration-with-a-Joint-Event-for-Top-Architects-Interior-Designers3d427bcd6f10420aa82bd6db2aae3d18(MENAFN- Bensirri PR) Kuwait, March 10, 2025: Gaggenau, the renowned luxury appliances brand, represented by Ali Abdulwahab Al Mutawa Commercial Co. (AAW) in Kuwait, and Boffi, the esteemed Italian leader in high-quality, sustainable kitchens, hosted an exclusive joint event celebrating their prestigious collaboration. The event brought together top architects and interior designers at the Arcadia Showroom in Shuwaikh. The collaboration showcased the seamless blend of Gaggenau’s innovative German engineering with Boffi’s timeless Italian craftsmanship, reinforcing their shared vision for redefining luxury living spaces. Attendees included Bosch Home Appliances CEO Middle East Mr. Murat Sirlagan, Boffi Sales Area Manager EMEA Mr. Francesco Picchio, and AAW Deputy CEO Mr. Khalid Faisal Al Mutawa, alongside representatives from Gaggenau and Boffi. The event celebrated the harmonious combination of innovative German appliances and the elegance of luxurious Italian designs, offering industry professionals a unique opportunity to explore the latest trends in luxury kitchen design and the integration of modern appliances with fine cuisine. The evening featured a live cooking demonstration by Chef Valerio Stella of Ricardo Restaurant, who showcased a selection of signature canapés. Tue, 11 Mar 2025 02:45:00 -0400 https://www.custom-kitchen-cabinet-design.com/cabinetry-blog.html#Where-to-Place-Your-Kitchen-Cabinetry-Hardwarec5aa5ec65c89cd27066f6e885e4f45c3Does it go in the middle of the drawer, on the edge or nowhere at all? Remodeling a kitchen can be a daunting undertaking. There are so many decisions to make that it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. And just when the end of your remodel is in sight, your contractor asks one last question: “Where would you like the hardware placed on your cabinetry?” It probably never occurred to you that there are placement options for your hardware. Like most design options, placement is based on a combination of tried-and-true design solutions and one’s own aesthetic. Let’s explore hardware placement so that when your contractor comes asking you’ll be prepared. Mon, 30 Sep 2019 00:00:00 -0400 https://www.custom-kitchen-cabinet-design.com/St-Martin-Cabinetry.html0999d370e96bd0a91eebfb9e9c63b2d9St Martin Cabinetry will provide you with a lifetime of enjoyment. It creates the most beautiful kitchen and bath furnishings available in today's market. Thu, 14 Jun 2012 01:39:12 -0400 https://www.custom-kitchen-cabinet-design.com/cabinetry-blog.html#Caesarstone-Makes-a-White-Hot-Debut-at-EuroCucina-201270fd95fb93736d4b2099aabfc76d0385VAN NUYS, CA — Caesarstone made a first-time appearance at EuroCucina 2012 in Milan, Italy April 17-22. The world-renowned event, EuroCucina, the International Kitchen Furniture Exhibition, is the only international kitchen tradeshow, and is known for bringing the biggest and best names in kitchen design and innovation together to showcase the latest in kitchen products, furniture, and accessories. One of 150 stringently selected exhibitors, Caesarstone -- who was the only surfacing company in attendance -- showcased a remarkable and fully functional kitchen gleaming white with the embossed, textured surface, White Crocodile -- part of their Motivo line. At the heart of the kitchen, which was the main attraction of Caesarstone's nearly 1,000 square foot booth, was a massive 30-foot long island equipped with touch screen functionality which allowed for the three countertop surfaces and 12 massive drawers to slide open, revealing more space, and other functional aspects of the kitchen. Behind the island was the custom cabinetry made up of nine sliding doors all covered in White Crocodile. "The kitchen accomplished so much more than simply functional yet elegant design. The technology built into the kitchen was truly innovative. With the press of a button you could reveal the sink and stove, as well as create a bar on the other side. All the drawers and cabinets were covered with 4mm thick Motivo White Crocodile using a technique which involved slicing a 2cm Caesarstone slab to 4mm thick pieces. EuroCucina really gave us a chance to shine. To show how far we've come as a global company and that we are leaders in innovation," said Maggie Amir, Brand Manager, Caesarstone USA, Inc. Thu, 31 May 2012 00:18:49 -0400 https://www.custom-kitchen-cabinet-design.com/cabinetry-blog.html#The-Developer-Behind-a-90-Million-Penthouse295da42a2d6feec735322d80dfde9fb8You can put your spare $90 million into buying 2 million shares of Facebook (FB), or you can spend it snapping up one luxury penthouse apartment in New York. A 10,923-square-foot duplex atop One57, one of the city’s tallest buildings, has sold for that record price tag. While the buyer’s name isn’t public—all we’re told is that the buyer is a family who are not from a former Soviet state—the name of the man behind the luxury development is no mystery: Gary Barnett, the president of Extell Development. Barnett, a former diamond trader, started his company in the 1990s and soon took on a number of attention-getting projects, including buying Enron’s new Houston headquarters after the company’s collapse and developing the W Hotel in New York’s Times Square. Barnett has conquered a field dominated by family dynasties and REITs to become the second most powerful person in New York real estate, according to the Commercial Observer. “Long considered a lone wolf for his tendency to ruffle feathers of his contemporaries … the developer is beginning to be taken more seriously by his peers,” the paper wrote earlier this month. One57 is Barnett’s highest-profile project—literally: The 90-story building is 1,005 feet tall. It has a premier location across from Carnegie Hall, just south of Central Park. In a market where developers are layering on extravagance to attract wealthy buyers from Russia and Asia, Barnett gushes about the luxury of One57. “Look at this kitchen,” he told the Observer. ” Where will you find a kitchen anywhere like this? It’s the best, and we have two of them.” The kitchens feature built-in wine cabinets and custom cabinetry from the bespoke British designer Smallbone of Devizes. Thu, 31 May 2012 00:18:49 -0400 https://www.custom-kitchen-cabinet-design.com/cabinetry-blog.html#One-Kitchen-Fits-Allf154078e9ced1f419112668d3c60a28fWhat makes a good kitchen? Space, easy reach, great accessories, etc? Ruth Dsouza Prabhu has a few tips on what to keep in mind while planning the perfect kitchen. If there is something that binds together the typical Indian family, it is the kitchen. Irrespective of which part of the country you come from and what the reason may be, food is the one thing that can bring together a warring family, herald some good news, break the monotony of bad weather and much more. It is therefore natural that the kitchen be designed so that it takes care of every aspect of your family’s requirements. “Preparing three fresh meals a day takes a good six hours for the Indian home maker, a full day’s job! By designing a customized and functional kitchen to meet the needs and lifestyle of that family; there is a conscious effort to reduce the time spent in the kitchen by the Indian home maker,” says Vasu, Director, V3 Engineers, a company that also specializes in kitchen design. Kitchen design Naturally quizzing the home owners on their way of life is how a kitchen designer will be able to determine the kind of kitchen to put in place. This will be based on a deeper understanding of the space that the designer has to work with, the prevailing environment in a home and the lifestyle the family has. “For example - neighbours in an apartment block, the same floor and the apartment kitchen space being identical - One home has four adults and two children and another two adults with no child. “The kitchen design, the colour, the glamour can be the same for both kitchens but the functionality of these similar looking kitchens is specific to that family, based on their cooking frequency, cuisine, food habits, buying patterns etc. “One feature to consider - if the family buys provisions only once a month, the storage space needs to be more and in the case of a weekly purchase lesser,” explains Vasu. Knowing what the design process involves and understanding the different modules available for functional kitchens will help you answer the designer’s probing questions in a better way. Giving them a good basis on which to work will ensure that you will have a kitchen that suits the kind of cooking enthusiast you are. Vasu provides some general design inclusions for various scenarios typical to an Indian home. Sat, 26 May 2012 11:11:48 -0400 https://www.custom-kitchen-cabinet-design.com/cabinetry-blog.html#In-rocky-housing-market-stone-countertops-still-reign3772655762f177bc175e4f241e22881cEven in a weak housing market, consumers still prefer countertops with the look of luxury. A recent survey of potential home buyers found that granite or another natural stone was the most preferred material, with 20 percent of the respondents saying it was essential and another 53 percent who deemed it desirable. Very few potential home buyers surveyed dreamed of having tile countertops, according to Stephen Melman, director of economic services for the National Association of Home Builders, the trade group that conducted the survey. Realtors tell us the look is outdated and the grout is hard to keep clean. Our tough countertop tests show that the grout between the ceramic or porcelain tiles stains, even when sealed, and can also mildew. Chipping is another problem with tile countertops. In our tests, we stained, sliced, scratched, scorched and nicked 14 materials from leading brands. We found big differences in materials, but little variation among brands. That's why our Ratings are by material, and that brings us back to stone. Our tests include granite, soapstone, limestone and marble, and of course, engineered stone or quartz. Granite and quartz performed similarly, but marble and the other natural stones weren't as resilient and some need to be sealed to resist staining. Use the results of our tests to find a material that will hold up well over the years. At $50 to $150 per square foot, marble is the most expensive. Granite and quartz were comparable in price at $50 to $100 per square foot. Tile, of course, costs less ($5 to $30 per square foot) but if you have to replace your counter more often, that's no bargain. —Kimberly Janeway Fri, 25 May 2012 09:06:01 -0400 https://www.custom-kitchen-cabinet-design.com/cabinetry-blog.html#Thermadors-Built-In-MicroDrawerTM-Microwave-Redefines-Kitchen-Innovation-and-Flexibilitydc4d9fb9a058915d08c3b94d8dda2522IRVINE, CA -- (Marketwire) -- 05/15/12 -- To deliver cutting-edge installation and design while incorporating best-in-class size and cooking capabilities, Thermador (http://www.thermador.com) introduces its new Thermador Built-in MicroDrawer" Microwave, which gives culinary enthusiasts the ability to combine luxury-class cooking power with Thermador's industry-leading innovations in perfect flush design. Thermador's new Built-in MicroDrawer" Microwave boasts several best-in-class features for the luxury segment, such as a generous 1.2 cu. ft. cavity space and 10 cooking modes. The new drawer also features a perfect flush installation capability for a standard depth cabinet that eliminates the need for an additional installation kit while providing superior access and ease of use, with the appliance placed at a convenient height. The Built-in MicroDrawer" Microwave also incorporates microwave sensor technology that helps eliminate the guesswork often involved with cooking and reheating. "Along with having the largest cavity space in the luxury segment, the new Built-in MicroDrawer" Microwave also combines Thermador power and sophistication with ease of use, thanks to the perfect flush installation that eliminates cluttered countertops to enhance culinary enthusiasts' cooking experiences," said Zach Elkin, director, brand marketing for Thermador. The Built-in MicroDrawer Microwave" falls in line with Thermador's refrigeration columns and warming drawers, reflecting the company's focus on perfect-flush design and installation. The appliance also features a luxury-segment-best 10 cooking modes, as well as easy-to-use touch controls and sensor technology that erases the need to remove the dish from the oven to check, stir or turn the food. Additionally, a large viewing window results in a sleek, sophisticated appearance that is ideal for any luxury kitchen d�cor. It is available at a MSRP of $1,649. Fri, 25 May 2012 00:07:05 -0400 https://www.custom-kitchen-cabinet-design.com/sinks-faucets.html079eaa22939820074705dc948c489288What should you ask yourself about sinks and faucets? Thu, 24 May 2012 23:55:32 -0400 https://www.custom-kitchen-cabinet-design.com/cabinetry-blog.html#JD-Power-and-Associates-Reports-Kitchen-Cabinet-Manufacturers-that-Highlight-Brand-Value-Through-Both-Process-and-Appeal-Are-Best-Positioned-to-Satisfy-Customersd613cc8ec28e4b2f27fdf093f0303896WESTLAKE VILLAGE, Calif., May 16, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- While aesthetics and functionality are important to consumers when choosing new kitchen cabinets, brands that differentiate themselves throughout the shopping and purchase process are best positioned to satisfy customers, according to the J.D. Power and Associates 2012 U.S. Kitchen Cabinet Satisfaction Study(SM) released today. The study, now in its fifth year, measures customer satisfaction with kitchen cabinets by measuring five factors: design features (such as the variety of cabinet colors/finishes and range of sizes and shapes available); ordering and delivery (including ease of ordering, condition of products at delivery and timeliness of delivery); price; operational performance (including smoothness of drawer slides and sturdiness of cabinet joinery); and warranty. The study finds that one-third of customers rely mostly on the retailers when shopping for kitchen cabinets, placing heavy emphasis on the in-store product displays, sales staff recommendations, and retailer website. "With the majority of customers indicate purchasing their kitchen cabinets through a retailer and not directly from the manufacturer, a key opportunity for manufacturers to differentiate their brand is through their in-store displays," said Christina Cooley, senior manager of the home improvement practice at J.D. Power and Associates. "Manufacturers have the opportunity to communicate their brand value to potential customers by showcasing the brand's function and style offerings." Sat, 19 May 2012 14:28:00 -0400 https://www.custom-kitchen-cabinet-design.com/cabinetry-blog.html#In-SoHo-Kosher-Rules-Get-New-Twistf2e466e975c4b7ab5a6054dbd2cccf74By SUMATHI REDDY The plans for Jezebel look like many other SoHo restaurants aiming to draw a hip, downtown crowd. The difference is in the details: A gold-plated shofar will serve as the door handle. Art work will include familiar pieces but with different faces (Woody Allen in a commissioned re-creation of "The Last Supper"). And an Orthodox Jewish overseer will keep a close eye on the kitchen at all times to make sure all's kosher. Literally. "We're looking to change the norm of where the bar for kosher is," said Menachem Senderowicz, 34 years old, one of Jezebel's two owners. "We think we can take it up more than two notches and bring it to a whole new level." "We want to become the kings of kosher," interjected co-owner Henry Stimler, 32. Messrs. Stimler and Senderowicz are stylish, fast-talking former finance types who plan to open Jezebel in June. It is the first restaurant for their group B&Y Hospitality (British and Yiddish, since Mr. Stimler is British and they both speak Yiddish), and they've hired James Beard Award-winning chef Bradford Thompson in the kitchen and Nick Mautone, formerly of Gramercy Tavern, to design the drink program. The duo, who grew up Orthodox but now classify themselves as "modern Jews," say the kosher aspect of the restaurant is almost an afterthought, albeit a carefully planned one that will include prepaid Shabbat dinners (and special ovens to keep the food hot) and unpasteurized kosher wine, which can only be handled by observant Jews. The owners say there is an unmet need for a cutting-edge restaurant for the Jewish demographic that is populating the likes of the nearby SoHo synagogue, where Torah cocktail parties and a Hamptons services are among the offerings, according to the website. But they insist they are not aiming for a predominately kosher or even Jewish clientele. Fri, 18 May 2012 09:22:25 -0400 https://www.custom-kitchen-cabinet-design.com/cabinetry-blog.html#EnvironmentalLightscom-Offers-High-Brightness-Premium-Under-Cabinet-Lighting-at-40-percent-off-Retail-Price31937e4b66cc2d6b0ce93ce2caabbf3fSan Diego, CA (PRWEB) May 03, 2012 EnvironmentalLights.com, a leading source of high-quality, energy-efficient LED lighting products, is now offering their Environmental Lights High Brightness Premium under cabinet lighting line of products at 40 percent off retail pricing. In its second generation, this line has been very popular for customers because it delivers high brightness, excellent color rendering and smooth dimming all in a thin package. “Spring is here, and we know that a lot of our customers will be either be remodeling their homes or contracted out for the projects,” said Anne Thorson, co-founder and vice president of EnvironmentalLights.com. “A kitchen upgrade can make a huge impact on the value of a home, and by offering our premium line of under cabinet lights at an affordable price, we can support our customers.” Environmental Lights has dropped its prices on their website up to 40 percent to celebrate remodeling season. If you want to create a beautiful kitchen, consider incorporating under cabinet lighting. LED light bars are linkable, bright and have a color rendering index (CRI) over 80. All components for a complete lighting system are now offered at reduced pricing - light bars, connectors, power supplies, dimmers and other accessories. “Color temperature plays a key role in creating the atmosphere of a room. When looking for an incandescent replacement, consumers should look for light in the 2700 to 3000°K range for a warm glow,” explained Bruce Bishop, operations manager for EnvironmentalLights.com. “If they want to brighten a room, neutral white will enhance the look of food and decorative elements.” Tue, 15 May 2012 12:59:29 -0400 https://www.custom-kitchen-cabinet-design.com/lighting.html9d363dc2b3a8608f2e6a3fe506947f25There are many different ways that lighting can effect the functionality of your kitchen. How do you decide id you want ambient, accent, task or decorative. Let's start with some definitions. Tue, 15 May 2012 01:29:27 -0400 https://www.custom-kitchen-cabinet-design.com/cabinetry-blog.html#Architect-study-reveals-new-kitchen-design-trendsae38ad43ac5e7f8740b93789b471371dThe kitchen is no longer just the kitchen. In addition to whipping up a plate of pasta, or reaching into the fridge for a cold drink, it is now the central hub of the modern home where multiple functions take place, further enhancing its place as the heart and soul of a home. That’s why the latest kitchen design trends reflect this lifestyle by incorporating new features that enhance this expanded use, according to a study from the American Institute of Architects (AIA.) Some of those new uses for the kitchen reflect our new technology-driven world, said AIA Chief Economist Kermit Baker. “The last few years have seen kitchens take on new functions.” New Trends in the Kitchen Space Computer area and recharging stations As home sizes decrease — and according to the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) they are — the space once dedicated to offices and dens are being incorporated into the kitchen. According to the AIA’s March survey, 43 percent of architects polled saw an increase in demands for computer areas in the kitchen. Tue, 15 May 2012 00:13:46 -0400 https://www.custom-kitchen-cabinet-design.com/cabinetry-blog.html#Franke-Launches-New-Luxury-Kitchen-Products7d01bf0a90440532aa81bcdde1f2fa34HATFIELD, Pa., May 2, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Franke innovation continues with the introduction of several new products for today's luxury kitchens. Three new faucets and a water filtration system join the Franke Kitchen Systems portfolio, combining style with superior performance and quality. The new FFPS1100 pull out faucet features minimalist lines and a dual-jet pull-out spray function. Effortlessly uniting angles and curves in its architectural design, this updated version of the FFP1100 faucet is a single-hole model suitable for both transitional and edgier kitchen designs. Versatile and reliable, the new FF2200 is an updated Franke classic. This multi-purpose pull out faucet echoes the familiar feel of one of Franke's most popular designs ever and is perfect for traditional, transitional and contemporary kitchens and bars. Modeled in the Franke European design tradition, the tall and gracefully arced spout and slender spray head of the new FF2700 Franke pull down faucet makes it a stunning choice for contemporary, modern and transitional kitchen decor. The three new Franke faucet models are available in Chrome and Satin Nickel to complement a variety of kitchen design styles. Franke products are known for quality and reliability, and these faucets are no exception with ceramic cartridges for leak-free operation and limited lifetime warranties. Tue, 8 May 2012 23:59:43 -0400 https://www.custom-kitchen-cabinet-design.com/cabinetry-blog.html#Integrating-the-Work-Triangle-in-Your-Kitchenfaea7f0000a5427adb1da477468fa112In planning a kitchen remodel, consider there are three areas of the kitchen homeowners use the most. You travel between the sink, stove, and refrigerator on a consistent basis. For this reason, an experienced kitchen designer labels the space between these three locations the work triangle, with each work area forming a point in the triangle. During your kitchen planning, you may want to pay close attention to the work triangle. Its size and configuration determine how productively you can use your kitchen and how much you’ll enjoy your time in it Each side of the triangle ideally should measure between 4 and 9 feet. The whole triangle perimeter should measure between 12 and 27 feet. Too much smaller may feel crowded. Larger and you'll carry heavy pots from point to point. Consideration of foot traffic safety moving through the triangle is a factor. There are a number of kitchen configurations that allow you to create an efficient work triangle. Which configuration works for you depends on the size and layout of your existing kitchen. The L-shaped kitchen is the most common kitchen layout, allowing you to locate the fridge at one end of the L, the stove at the other, and the sink in the middle. If space allows, expand counter and storage space with a kitchen island. The galley kitchen is popular in homes with limited square footage. But because of entrances at each end, more often than not you’ll find people walking through the work triangle. If your kitchen includes two or more cooks working at the same time, a G-shaped kitchen allows you to have lots of cabinet and counter space as well as two sinks and two stoves. The kitchen tends to be the hub of family gatherings, even today. Since not all homes allow for the ideal kitchen, you may want to work with an experienced kitchen designer to get the most out of your investment. This article was submittted to Burke Patch by Schroeder Design/Build. Tue, 8 May 2012 23:55:34 -0400 https://www.custom-kitchen-cabinet-design.com/home-decor-accessories.html6369a6149ba7c74bfb209ff2b93d7747Improving your homes decor is as simple as an accessory, paint job or window treatment. If your tired of the same old look in your home decor visit suggestions here. Thu, 3 May 2012 08:30:51 -0400 https://www.custom-kitchen-cabinet-design.com/window-treatments.html529b227cbaa8144bf6b585a4d84d1590How do you choose the right window treatment products when you have to select from blinds, shades, drapes and shutters? Thu, 3 May 2012 02:33:02 -0400 https://www.custom-kitchen-cabinet-design.com/cabinetry-blog.html#Homeowners-keep-renovations-simple-budget-friendlyda5141aa38ea1c8636a1857ce8cc7bbfBy Wendy Koch, USA TODAY With real estate values still in the doldrums, people are seeing their houses less as investments and more as, well, homes. Since they're staying put, they're taking on targeted — rather than extreme — makeovers aimed at livability. Home remodeling is expected to pick up and post solid growth in the second half of this year, making 2012 the strongest year since 2006, according to a report Thursday by the remodeling futures program at Harvard University's Joint Center for Housing Studies. Driving the market will be midsize kitchen and bath projects, maintenance work and energy-efficiency upgrades. In fact, unlike a few years ago, Americans are now spending more on remodeling than on new construction, says Stephen Melman of the National Association of Home Builders. He says they're moving less now than at any time since World War II, so they're thinking less about the resale value of a remodel. "They do it, because they want to. That's a major change in the psychology," he says. Yet with home equity loans in short supply, many Americans are paying cash for renovations, so their projects tend to be smaller and focused. "Everyone is value-oriented," says Debra Toney of Three Week Kitchens/Baths in a Week, a remodeling firm with offices in Denver and Texas. "They're just more cautious," she says, citing their willingness to pick basic appliances rather than Sub-Zero refrigerators and Wolf ranges. More consumers, 61%, said it was important to get the most bang for the buck last year than did so, 56%, in 2010 and slightly more said they'd spend extra time looking for bargains, according to a reader survey released in February by Better Homes and Gardens magazine. The survey found consumers are most interested in style upgrades to countertops, flooring, faucets and fixtures, followed by general maintenance, decor updates, efficiency and home organization. "I suggest people try simple changes first," such as new light fixtures or paint colors, says designer Stephen Saint-Onge, author of No Place Like Home (Wiley.) He recalls a couple in Manhattan who wanted to gut their condo, but after he moved their furniture around for a few minutes, they saw new possibilities and a less extensive makeover. Sat, 21 Apr 2012 15:15:57 -0400 https://www.custom-kitchen-cabinet-design.com/cabinetry-blog.html#Advice-On-Installing-Natural-Stone-Floor-Tiles377598f909c5967372a68112cc8099dcFOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE PRLog (Press Release) - Apr 02, 2012 - Many home owners like the idea of natural stone floor tiles in their home because of the natural design style they offer and the fact that they are very strong and durable and will last a lifetime. Natural stone floor tiles are ideal for busy areas of the home because they are durable and when sealed, they will be protected from any spillages which could further damage the floor tiles. The installation procedures for any floor tile has to be followed carefully but it is true that natural stone floor tiles need to be prepared, sealed prior to installation and after installation. Although their installation procedures are more complex than other floor tile materials, the finished product is well worth the finished design which offers home owners fantastic functionality combined with super design style. Natural stone floor tiles are a group of floor tile materials such s marble tiles, granite tiles, travertine tiles, slate tiles and limestone tiles. They are often suitable for both wall tile and floor tile installation with many home owners also using them in bathrooms on both walls and floors, this often gives spectacular results. When purchasing natural stone floor tiles, the choice will largely depend on the look you are trying to achieve along with the price, natural stone floor tiles are known for being a more expensive floor tiles choice but considering they offer value to the home and they will absolutely last a lifetime, ensures their investment is worth it. Mon, 16 Apr 2012 10:43:45 -0400