About Kitchen's

Kitchen Finance: Estimate the Cost for New Kitchen

2010-01-05T07:46:00.001+07:00

How much will it cost?

Here are a few things to think about when thinking about the cost of your new kitchen.

There are a wide range of companies who sell kitchens and prices can range from £3,000 to £30,000! As with anything, you tend to get what you pay for. The cost will obviously vary depending on the range, appliances, accessories and size of you kitchen, our average kitchen order value is approximately £9,000.

Size is an important factor. The more space you need to fill the more it will cost.

Fully fitted kitchens will always be more expensive than flat-pack furniture as the cost of installation is often quite high. However, bear in mind that installation is a specialist area. It is often worth spending a little bit more to have the job done properly.

Remember, in buying a new kitchen you are adding value to your home. Money spent on a well-designed kitchen is often a good investment.

Finance – Many companies offer finance packages. These are often a good way of spreading payments over a period of time.

From: www.mobenkitchenguide.co.uk

The Unfitted Kitchen

2010-01-04T08:02:00.000+07:00

The Unfitted Kitchen: Why Bother?

If you’ve been involved in designing or building a new kitchen in the past 20 years, you’ve probably heard the terms ‘unfitted kitchens’ or ‘kitchen workstations’ or simply ‘kitchen furniture’. These terms don’t refer to a dinette set, but rather to a completely different way of organizing a kitchen by using a few specially designed pieces of furniture instead of installing continuous lines of cabinetry and countertops. For some people, a ‘furnished’ kitchen is an intriguing idea, but others might say “Why bother fixing something that ain’t broke?”

Sometimes we get so caught up in accepting how things are that we don’t take any time to question whether we are going in the right direction. Technology has a way of pushing us forward, but sometimes we need to take a break to discover what form of progress is the most appropriate. For example, when electricity first came to New York City, there were layers of power lines attached to all the buildings and power poles everywhere. If we look at the old pictures of Manhattan we can’t believe how ugly it all was, but to most of the New Yorkers of the period, they never even noticed the chaos. It took someone with just a bit of foresight to realize that burying all the power lines underground was a better way to go.

Kitchen design that uses cabinetry has evolved into the universally accepted method to create a kitchen. But in the last 20 years, designers started to ask the question, “Is cabinetry really the ‘best’ way for all design situations?” To answer this question, we must first discover the reason ‘Why’ changing from cabinetry to something else would be beneficial. Hopefully, by illustrating how kitchen design has evolved, you will begin to discover ‘Why’ kitchen furniture can be a great alternative to designing kitchens with cabinetry.

In the days before electricity changed everything in our lives, family kitchens in modestly sized homes were large but simply appointed rooms. They contained a solid fuel heat source for cooking (a fireplace or a coal or wood stove) and a built-in sink, with or without running water. Everything else was a piece of furniture. The icebox was elegantly made of wood, as were the central dining/work table, cupboards, pie safes and pantries. The family kitchen was the central work/social place of the home too where family members, sometimes in the company of friends performed most domestic chores and socialized with each other.

Electricity brought many timesaving devices into the kitchen, as well as many inventions that pulled us away from the kitchen. Due to the innovations in the kitchen, fewer people were needed to prepare meals, so the kitchen lost a lot of its social importance and became a smaller, super-efficient working room. Built-in cabinetry, previously delegating only to Butler’s pantries in larger homes, now became the best way to shrink the kitchen into an efficient workspace. With more leisure time, socializing was delegated to the living areas of the house, because the kitchen was too small.

Now, current planning has opened up the kitchen to incorporate the social rooms again. New homes almost always have a breakfast/family room completely in view of the kitchen. The Great Room concept is simply a large social room with a kitchen in it. Walls between the kitchen and other rooms are being torn down in older homes in the effort to create multi-task, live-in kitchens. We have actually gone full circle, in a little over 100 years, by creating a modern version of a pre-electricity social/working kitchen.

Why has this happened? There are too many reasons to list here, but they all seem to relate to time. With the development of the 2 career families and single head-of-household families, there isn’t enough time in the day to dedicate a lot of it to cooking. Again, innovations (i.e., microwaves, pre-prepared and frozen foods) have allowed us to spend less time cooking during the workweek. And when we are cooking, we don’t want to miss anything that is going on around us. On weekends, we may relax in the kitchen/family room by watching TV or even entertaining friends by cooking elaborate meals.

But typically, the kitchen portion of the great room still looks like and is organized like the super efficient, work-only kitchen mentioned above. It is lined with horizontal bands of cabinetry and countertops that are interrupted only by exposed hi-tech appliances. Designers promote this ‘laboratory’ look because it is easy to design and it truly is the only kitchen design concept that most people understand. Most kitchen layouts are created by drawing a line 2 feet out from every wall (to indicate cabinetry) and then if there is room, an island (the bigger, the better) is drawn to act as a buffer between the kitchen and family room. The room’s personality is determined by the design of the backsplash, and it depends on the color uniformity of the cabinetry and appliances to hold the design theme of the room intact.

On the other hand, the family room, or the social area of the great room is designed in a completely different way. Typically, a beautiful empty room is created and then it is furnished. Instead of lining all the walls with horizontal bands of built-ins (and there are exceptions to this i.e. Frank Lloyd Wright’s prairie homes) the wall spaces are interrupted with vertical elements like windows and doors or focal points such as a fireplaces. The walls of the room are separated into vertical segments instead of continuous horizontal bands. At blank wall areas and in the middle of the room, eclectic pieces of furniture create seating arrangements, while the wall-hung artwork and sculptural collectibles on display determine the room’s personality. But the wall, floor and ceiling colors and textures permeate between all of these vertical elements acting as the ‘glue’ that holds the whole design theme together.

So the question is, why not create a multi-task, live-in modern open-plan kitchen/family room by furnishing it rather than installing cabinetry? Why not blend the kitchen into the family room using vertical instead of horizontal design? Why must half of the room look like a sterile laboratory, while the other half of the room is filled with the personal touches that bring you comfort?

When designing with furniture, spaces must be created between each piece that allow the 3-D character (3-D in that furniture is made with at least 3 finished sides) of each piece to be appreciated. These spaces are most important as they allow the design theme of the adjacent room to continue uninterrupted into the kitchen. The spaces allow the wall, ceiling and floor coverings (the architectural finishes) to instantly meld the kitchen and family room into one homogeneous space in a way that is impossible to do with horizontally designed cabinetry. The spaces define the room’s personality and allow the furniture to become more eclectic as well, emulating the same design techniques used in the design of the family room. No longer must the kitchen have just one color of wood, or one door style or one countertop material. The spaces allow all of these elements to change more readily. For a clear example, think of an open-plan log home where all the interior walls are exposed logs. A furnished kitchen allows the logs to be seen between each piece, which helps to unify the open-plan room whereas a horizontally designed cabinetry filled kitchen covers up all the logs. In an open-plan loft design where the kitchen is always seen, a furnished kitchen can blend seamlessly into the other casual seating groupings by allowing all the architectural finishes to meander between all the pieces and hold everything together.

There are a few simple design rules to consider when designing the individual pieces of furniture, but that is a topic for another time. There are even other reasons ‘Why’ to use furniture instead of cabinetry, such as using it to emulate a certain style or period like the pre-electricity styled kitchen. But it is in today’s open-plan kitchen where furniture can make its most universal impact. Will it ever replace cabinetry? Absolutely not, but for anyone who is involved in designing a kitchen project, properly designed furniture may be the most appropriate design concept to use, one that is well worth the bother!

David Beer is an architect and the founder of the YesterTec Design Company that makes Kitchen Workstation Furniture (instead of cabinetry.) YesterTec has patented U.L. Listed technology to conceal ovens, cooktops, microwaves and standard dishwashers in specially built workstations. Please visit http://yestertec.com to discover more about this exciting alternative kitchen design concept.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=David_Beer

Kitchen Remodeling

2009-12-31T07:56:00.001+07:00

Manage Your Remodel

1. Put it down on paper. Draw a plan and make a list for your kitchen remodel to help you determine costs. Decide if you'll need new cabinets or if you can paint them. Many home improvement centers offer computer generated kitchen remodeling plans based on your own photos. Decide if appliances will be replaced and what type you want. Check online for appliance features and stores that offer discounts.

2. Hire a reputable contractor who is experienced in kitchen remodeling if you aren't going to do it yourself. Make sure the contractor is licensed and insured. Get references from the contractor and make sure that you have a time frame in writing. Labor costs are estimated at approximately 30 percent of the total remodeling cost.

3. Do it yourself. If you are experienced in home repairs, you may be able to do a lot of the work yourself to save money. Gas appliances need to be installed by experts. Make sure you hire reputable plumbers and electricians to help with the mechanical aspects of the kitchen remodel if necessary. Depending on the age of your kitchen, mechanical remodels can take as much as 30 percent of your budget.

4. Keep at least 10 percent of your budget for those unexpected costs. You might have termites or dry rot in wood, which will need to be replaced. Wiring may be old and not up to code. Old water pipes could be leaking and need to be replaced. Always keep a "contingency fund" for just such repairs.

From: www.superkitchens.com

The Kitchen: Renovate Or New Build?

2009-12-30T08:06:00.001+07:00

Completely renovating a kitchen, especially in an older home, can at times be a daunting task. Considerations for structural integrity have to be maintained, and you are never really sure of what you will run in to when you start knocking out walls. Older homes especially can have unseen problems, such as water damage leading to mold behind walls removed, rotted flooring caused by an unseen or neglected leak and sub-standard wiring can be found. When planning a renovation, city codes and regulations have to be adhered to, often leading to further expense. Remember, when you are finished with your project, you are stuck with it, and there is no turning back. The focus of this article will be on whether to renovate or do a new build. We will discuss considerations, options and typical costs of both renovation and new build.

The Cost Of Renovation

The cost of renovating a kitchen is dependent on a lot of factors. It depends on where you live, the age of your home, and is of course constrained by your budget. There is no absolute figure per square foot for kitchen renovation. However, the ball park figures from research show that you can expect to pay between $125 to $225 per square foot. Freddie Mac determines the cost of reno to be $8,000 and up. If you live in Chicago, plan to pay more than if you live in a small town in Nebraska. If you have serviceable appliances that you like the features of, and are capable of doing a lot of the work yourself, then the cost can be lowered appreciably.

What Needs To be Done

In a renovation, especially if the house was built before 1950, there are specific issues that you may have to deal with. First, you must rent a large container for waste removal, adding to cost. In an interview with a builder for this article, he informed me that not only plumbing and wiring must be upgraded to code, but you may run into asbestos wrapped pipes. If so, a HazMat company is required to deal with asbestos, raising the cost. Although wiring and plumbing only needs to be replaced in the actual room you are working in, wiring must be upgraded from the electrical box to the kitchen. A competent builder will assess the infrastructure by cutting holes in certain areas to inspect for water damage. He will not just begin tearing out walls without doing this first. Lead pipe will need to be removed. Water damage and any sign of mold must be properly dealt with, raising the cost.

The Cost Of New Build

In the mid-Michigan area where I live, new build costs vary. Prices range from $75 to $130 depending on which contractor you talk to. Here is where you need to get the calculator out and make some decisions. You would quickly think the contractor offering to build at $75 per square foot is the best option. Not necessarily so! It is the old saw "you get what you pay for" and is truer in new construction than anywhere else. Builder A charges $75 per square foot, builder B $130. Builder A will work strictly to code and nothing else, so you end up with the bare minimum required by law. Builder B, however, will add extra insulation, run electrical plugs and outlets to your satisfaction, and will work with you on special needs, such as green building. In the long run, builder B is the best bet. You not only get what you want, but get special attention to specific needs.

Other Consideration On A New Build

On a new build, you will have the expense of new electrical installation, and new plumbing will need to be run. Building codes require that these runs be made from the source. You can't simply splice into old wiring to make it work, nor do the same with plumbing. In newer homes this is not much of a problem. In older homes, however, the builder may run into difficulty with old construction and older plumbing and wiring. GFI plugs and grounding wires need to be used in your new kitchen. There are specific ways they must be installed, and require a licensed electrician for installation.

What About The Old Kitchen?

You have determined that a new build is cheaper and will give you what you want. The old kitchen, however, must be dealt with after the new is finished. Countertop level plugs must be moved down to 16 inches from the floor to meet code. The process will require new wiring, also. For walls, it is a simple matter of installing 3/8" drywall, taping and mudding, and then repainting.
Do your due diligence, and enjoy your new kitchen!

Alden Smith is an award winning author and regular contributor to DoItYourself.com. He writes on a variety of subjects, and excels in research.

From: www.doityourself.com

How to Prepare for Kitchen Renovation

2009-12-29T09:19:00.001+07:00

Kitchen renovations reap the greatest financial rewards in a selling situation. If you are reading this article then chances are you have already done your homework, have a vague idea as to what style the new kitchen will be, what the budget is and you’ve investigated how to choose your contractor. What you haven’t considered is Murphy’s Law: Anything that can go wrong will. After we look at what can go wrong, let’s look at the inconvenience of not having a kitchen for 2-3 weeks and the mess that construction incurs. Please, don’t let me discourage you. I point this out for your benefit! If you know what you are facing in advance you can be better prepared to overcome the obstacles.

DO

Before you sign for purchases, read the contents of each contract.
Make sure all colors, measurements and style names are absolutely correct.
Keep signed receipts in one folder labeled “kitchen” and sleep with this under your pillow (I am not kidding!).
When the cabinets arrive in the wrong color or size and the appliances arrive scratched and/or dented you will have ammunition to fight. You can say “No, this is not what we ordered, take it back.”
You must remain in control of the situation.
Invariably some measurement will have been wrong or your flooring will have been discontinued.

Don't

Don’t start demolition until everything has arrived and you have checked each
item with a fine tooth comb.
Don’t pay in full up front.
Pay in installments. This helps you to maintain the upper hand. As you have
planned every detail of demolition and construction, plan for the in-between.

Set up an area in your home as a make-shift kitchen. Purchase or rent a small size refrigerator-freezer. This will hold milk, pre-made meals, cold cuts, etc. Set up a microwave, toaster-oven and coffee pot. Purchase paper/plastic utensils, plates, napkins, cups. Fast food becomes boring and packs on pounds quickly; not to mention the expense involved.

Place your valuables in a safe place or a lock box. With different contractors, service people and construction workers coming in and out of your home it is better to be safe than sorry. Why tempt fate?

If possible you may want to hire a cleaning service on completion of the project. This will ensure that all dust particles have been eliminated. If you prefer to clean yourself, expect that every item in your home will be covered in what is known as “sheetrock dust” from the never-ending sanding and sawing which took place.

On completion of your new kitchen, the rewards will have far out-weighed the inconveniences and the memories of horrific moments will not only be laughable but will last forever.

From: www.doityourself.com

Kitchen Planning

2009-12-28T08:44:00.001+07:00

Basic Tips to Improve Your Kitchen Area

The kitchen is often the busiest room in the house and has a variety of functions. While food preparation is its most obvious, the kitchen is often the social hub of the family home, playing host to a number of activities such as homework and dining. Decorating or furnishing any room requires careful planning to achieve the best results and this is especially true of the kitchen. From the outset, it is important to decide what you want from your kitchen area. If you're going to use it primarily for cooking, then a large amount of work-surface will be needed. Or if meals are to be eaten there, room and space are going to be important considerations.

The removal of laundry appliances is worth considering for those looking to free up space. They could be placed in another room in the house or even put outside; A shed or out-house could be transformed into a utility room to store large laundry appliances such as washing machines or dryers. Other kitchen appliances such as freezers could also be moved, thereby providing extra space for smaller kitchen areas. This could enable you to provide an extra piece of kitchen furniture such as a small table or chair.

The preparation of food is often a time consuming activity. Therefore the kitchen worktop should be tailor-made for its user. The incorrect height can encourage bad posture, which in turn can lead to back-problems. It should be flexible in design, especially if a kitchen is used by more than one person. Features such as roll out worktops can help achieve this requirement. They can also be installed at varying heights to adapt to different users. Adjustable stools might also be worth considering.

Good lighting can help aid in the smooth and efficient running of a kitchen. Like the bathroom, it can have reflective surfaces that cause glare. So a lighting set-up that provides effective illumination for every-day tasks as well as soft background lighting is a practical necessity. Low-voltage bulbs concealed by a partition are good at this, as are cooker hoods. Most hoods come with an integral light that can help provide a useful background glow for cooking and preparation. And, if you plan on using your kitchen for dining, an adjustable rise and fall lamp installed over the table can offer a pleasant, relaxing ambiance.

You should also plan where you'll put your electrical kitchen accessories. The placement of electrical sockets is important in terms of safety and practicality and so a good number should be installed. Trailing electrical flexes are not a good idea and can prove very dangerous. Therefore at least two sockets should be installed for each worktop.

Ventilation is another integral feature. It helps maintain an odor-free environment as well as preventing the build-up of moisture caused by steam. Extractor fans are effective at this and are sometimes included with oven systems. Installing an oven/ cooker next to an exterior wall means that its extractor fan can vent stale air out of the kitchen immediately. Condensation is therefore drastically reduced and good air circulation created. In a room that can emit strong odors, this is an essential factor.

The three most important features of a kitchen are the fridge, sink and cooker. For ease of use and convenience they should be close together. Placing them at the points of an imaginary triangle is a popular practice and can help prevent excessive movement around the kitchen. This can, however be influenced by the shape and size of your kitchen. So in some cases the logical solution is to place them in a line. Square kitchens provide the most scope for layout possibilities. U-shape and L-shape designs are the most popular and can provide extra space for eating or relaxing, whatever suits you home the most.

Storage is another factor in kitchen planning. Adequate space for appliances and other kitchen equipment ensures that a cooking area is free from clutter and can run smoothly. Kitchen units are the most common and space-efficient solutions to space issues. Buying on the cheap should be avoided however. There's nothing more annoying than drawers that don't run smoothly, or doors that don't close properly. Quality kitchen units will last much longer and are much more durable than their less expensive counterparts. Kitchen cupboards and dressers are also an option. They can provide extra space to store and display dishes and other items. Open shelves such as those found on traditional kitchen dressers can lend a kitchen a relaxed lived-in look, even when full and may enhance the overall look and feel of the room.

In conclusion, planning and building a new kitchen is a good investment. It can improve the quality of your life as well as increasing the value of your home. With the application of a few tried and trusted methods, and some considered purchases, you can have an efficient, attractive and practical kitchen area, which should stand the test of time.

If you're looking for ideas about kitchen furniture [http://www.ornate-homes.com/Kitchen-furniture.html] and kitchen accessories then John's site Ornate Homes [http://www.ornate-homes.com] may be of some help.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=John_Dale

Kitchen Design Considerations

2009-12-26T09:44:00.000+07:00

Cooking units
Lighting and ventilation
Colour and style

Cooking units

A separate hob and oven may be pricier than a single unit but allows better workflow.
Place the oven at a maximum height of 90cm above floor level, out of reach of children and at a good ergonomic height for adults.
Microwaves should be no higher than 75mm below your shoulder, so that you are not struggling with heavy, hot containers.

Lighting and ventilation

To increase natural light, consider resizing existing windows, adding skylights or opening the space to living, dining or outdoor areas.
Create differing levels of light. Multiple recessed lights work well with traditional ceiling fixtures in eat-in kitchens. Adjustable pendants or spots with dimmer switches are suitable for above the dining area.
Use directional task lighting (halogen spots or downlights) to illuminate work areas including benchtops, stove and sink.
Install a powerful exhaust fan to remove heat, steam, grease and odours, ducted into open air, not roof-space.
Position switches and outlets with practicality in mind: light-switches next to doors; multiple outlets above benchtops designated for appliances.

Colour and style

Neutrals are practical and 'safe', which is important if you plan to rent or sell.
All white cabinetry, surfaces and appliances mean everything coordinates easily.
Light colours and smooth, reflective surfaces maximise light and enhance the sense of space.
Dark, high-gloss surfaces look stylish but mark easily. On the other hand patterned surfaces disguise dirty and marks.
Stainless steel or brushed steel finishes are durable, hygienic and stylish. They coordinate well with appliances and reflect light.

Flooring

Save money by retaining existing flooring and resurfacing or resealing.
Cork, hardwood or bamboo floors offer warmth, cushioning, durability and style, but require annual re-sanding/re-sealing to withstand traffic, splashes and spills.
Stone, tile and concrete flooring are waterproof, durable and easy to clean. However, stone floors are cold, hard and can stain.
For a practical, cost-effective alternative, consider new-generation linoleum: it's hardwearing, flexible and available in myriad styles.
Consider the slip rating of your flooring as accidents do happen.

Washing up area

If space permits, choose a double bowl sink, with deep bowls for pot-washing.
For right-handers, the most natural placement of the washing area is to the left of the workspace, with a dishdrainer and dishwasher to the left of the sink.
Allow 40-60cm next to the sink for the dishdrainer and loading or unloading dishes.
Positioning the sink underneath a window makes dishwashing more pleasant.
Ask your plumber to install separate under-sink ball valves so you can shut off water easily to sink and dishwasher.
Consider adding an in-sink garbage disposal and an inbuilt water filter.

Kitchen Safety

2009-12-26T09:39:00.000+07:00

Kitchen Safety Tips

Is your current kitchen safe? Will your new kitchen be safe? Review this checklist of planning guidelines, developed by the National Kitchen & Bath Association. They'll help reduce the risk of accidental burns, electrocution, fire, collisions and other mishaps.

Keep household "traffic" out of the primary cook's work triangle (the area between the refrigerator, sink and cooking surface).
Plan a landing space (at least 15" wide by 16" deep) for hot dishes, pots and baking trays either next to, above, or directly across from both the microwave and oven.
Include a minimum 15" by 16" landing space on one side of the cooktop. In all kitchens, space must also be allowed on the opposite side of the appliance.
Include at least a 9" wide counter space if the cooking surface is placed in an open run of counter.
Include at least 3" of counter clearance space if the cooking surface is at the end of a countertop that meets a wall. The wall should be protected by a flame retardant surface.
Include at least 9" of straight counter space if the cooking surface is on an island. Also allow a 9" clearance at the back of island cooking surfaces.
Select a cooking surface with control knobs at the front or side of the appliance.
Place the microwave so its bottom is 24" to 48" above the floor.
Make sure all major appliances used for surface cooking have a ventilation system, with a fan rated at 150 CFM minimum.
Do not place a cooking surface below an operable window unless the window is at least 3" behind it and more than 24" above it.
Put a fire extinguisher in a visible kitchen location, away from cooking equipment.
Install smoke alarms near the kitchen.
Be sure ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCI) are specified for all electrical receptacles.
Round, curve or clip countertop edges and corners to eliminate sharp edges.

Kitchen Design and Safety Tips

2009-12-25T08:24:00.001+07:00

Adding Interest and Accessibility to Your Kitchen

One size never fits all in a kitchen - from neither a functional nor a design standpoint. Good kitchen plans accommodate users' varying heights, ages, mobility limitations, dexterity, and most important, the changes in those elements which, inevitably, come with time.

Similarly, aesthetic tastes are different. "Cookie cutter" kitchens lack interest and individuality. A well-designed space makes a statement about its users.

But the best kitchen plans accomplish both. These simple ideas can improve both the functionality and the look of your kitchen:

Vary Counter Heights

This creates work spaces for various tasks (mixing/baking vs. cutting/chopping for example), and will better accommodate cooks of varying stature, including seated cooks. Varying heights also adds an interesting design element. The National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA) recommends that at least two counter heights be offered, one between 28" - 36" and another between 36" - 45."

Raise the Dishwasher

Raising the dishwasher 9"- 12" above the floor makes it more accessible and easier to load/unload because you don't have to bend to reach the bottom rack. Doing so also creates a variance in counter height, as suggested above.

Lower Some Wall Cabinets

Who says wall cabinets should all be hung at the same height? Mix it up a bit and you'll get more storage within a comfortable reach range. Cabinets can be placed right on the counter top, or can be stepped up and down to match changes in counter heights.

According to NKBA, for a standing person 5'3" to 5'7" tall, cabinet space between 15" and 69" above the floor is most accessible.

Roll it Out, Pull it Out

Maximize storage with drawers and roll-out shelves. In base cabinets, roll-outs improve accessibility by bringing pots and supplies out to you. Drawers of varying shapes and sizes used in or between upper and lower cabinets increase storage and add design interest. NKBA recommends including at least 120" of drawer or roll-out shelf frontage in kitchens under 150 sq. ft., and 165" in larger kitchens.

From: www.doityourself.com

Latest trends from Kitchen

2009-12-23T09:32:00.000+07:00

Benchtops
Design
Colours

Benchtops

Extending your benchtop seamlessly up into the splashback gives an uncluttered look and an easy-to-clean surface.
Man-made kitchen surfaces, which copy the look of stone, are all the rage. The easy-clean composite surfaces hold their colour and grain consistency. Popular composite stone brands include Essa Stone, Corian, Stone Italiana, Quarella, CaesarStone and Trezzini.

For a natural, clean look, neutral colours with a limestone or sand-pebble effect are popular.

For a distinguished feel, try the new black Trezzini composite stone with white textured flecks.

When it comes to laminate benchtops, don't be square. Curved edges and seamless lines are hot. New laminate colours on the market offer flexibility and individuality.

Design

Kitchen design will be determined by its position in the open-plan living area. A popular design will be to open the back of the house with a flow through from the kitchen to the living area, opening onto an outdoor entertaining deck. The kitchen bench becomes the focal point as it differentiates between the functional kitchen area and the rest of the space. A galley or island kitchen is perfect for this design.

Modular islands or preparation stations that can be moved around to suit individual requirements will feature prominently.

Choose benchtops, sinks and fixtures with an ample thickness to give your kitchen a welcoming feel.

Colours

Spot colours of orange and green are very big this season.

Warm honey tones will be popular, with the natural hue of timber creating an instantly warm welcome.

Prints and patterns are creeping into kitchen design. Kitchens are becoming more playful with the introduction of stripes and floral prints on splashbacks and benchtops.

Appliances and fixtures

Kitchens are looking more streamlined as appliances are hidden in cabinets, deep drawers or entire walls of cupboards. Clever storage systems ?such as benches with hidden shelving and cookers that drop down rather than opening in the conventional manner - are just two of the ideas on offer.

It's time to re-think our way of thinking. An example is dishwashers being raised off the ground for ease of use.

Colourful, retro-styled appliances are on the scene. Visualise cherry-red-coloured mixers and powder-pink kitchen scales.

Cooktops on island benches, steam ovens and warmer drawers for plates are a dream come true for the serious cook.

Our concern for the environment has been acknowledged, too - an eco drawer has been designed featuring compartments for paper, aluminium, glass and cardboard recycling.

Splashbacks

Glass splashbacks will continue to appeal. They can be painted any colour to match the decor of your kitchen and create a bright focal point.

Wooden splashbacks will make an appearance. As long as they are treated properly they will last as long as their glass and steel counterparts.

Steel splashbacks will prove popular. For easy cleaning, go for a matte finish rather than high shine.

The Best In Kitchen Remodeling

2009-12-23T09:00:00.000+07:00

Since the kitchen is a high traffic area on a regular basis, creating a functional layout is key when planning your kitchen remodeling ideas. When creating your kitchen remodeling ideas you should think about the available space you have and then get creative.

Using Kitchen Remodeling Software

Most of the kitchen remodeling software is very user-friendly; the steps are as easy as 1-2-3 or A-B-C. A typical or conventional kitchen remodeling, if patterned in the past decades should have the "triangular" basics, wherein the sink, refrigerator, and stove are on triangle angles with a big space in the kitchen center, so that it would be easier for the mother or the woman of the house to move around.

Making a great small kitchen remodeling design points you to the many different cabinet designs and surface patterns providing your small kitchen a superb sense of space. Whether you design the kitchen yourself, work with a kitchen remodeling contractor or home center, formulating a plan will be the first step. Another pro to remodeling your kitchen is the fact that you will, essentially, be getting a new kitchen.

Any remodeling idea for a small kitchen must address the following issues: counter space, storage, built-ins, and pantry. When planning on a kitchen remodeling project, the budget is the first thing to consider. Whether you've got a big budget or a small one for your kitchen remodeling project, it's wise to try to make sure your spending doesn't spiral out of control as the process continues.

Don't worry if it will take time for you to create and sketch out your plan or model, great and perfect kitchen remodeling ideas have to be developed, because it has to be perfect and valuable to you and your family. Also ensure that your kitchen remodeling ideas are not that far-out or far-fetched, align it in your family's lifestyle and daily activities; this would give you a brighter plan on your kitchen design and style. The interactive kitchen design remodeling design plans distinctively are real-life award winners, and with its innovative process, the entire plan is certain to please with its client-driven method.

After all the information is collected you can begin to put all the pieces together, and figure out how you can balance your kitchen remodeling project desires with you budget restraints. Once you've finally decided on the general picture of your remodeled kitchen, then find the best yet affordable kitchen remodeling services in your area.

Though remodeling a kitchen can be a huge disruption to the homeowner, the finished product will quickly erase the brief inconvenience. If you have a large kitchen remodeling project you will need to set up a temporary kitchen a different part of the house. One of the many other pros to kitchen remodeling is one that you might not necessarily have thought of before.

Limit spending on the kitchen remodeling to about 15 - 20 percent of your home's value. According to the National Association of Home Builders, updating and remodeling your kitchen will add more value than any other improvement. Even if you plan on moving at some point after the remodel, don't forget that kitchen projects add more value to your home than any other improvement.

Find more helpful remodeling tips by visiting http://best-home-improvement-projects.com where you will find helpful remodeling tips, advice and resources to include Kitchen Remodeling.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Tom_Turner

Kitchen layout

2009-12-22T08:00:00.001+07:00

BY Shaun Davies

U-shape kitchen
L-shape kitchen
Single-line kitchen

U-shape kitchen

This versatile design suits both small and large kitchens. Its efficient shape prevents household traffic from moving through the kitchen and offers maximum bench and storage space. One of the legs of the U can be used as a breakfast bar.

If used in a small space the U design may leave you cramped for space and feeling closed in. Time also needs to go into thoughtful storage planning so that hard-to-access corner cupboards are used effectively.

L-shape kitchen

Best suited to narrow rooms, long rooms or open-plan living areas, the L-shaped kitchen frees up workspace and provides a good amount of storage below the countertop. The design also minimises walking distances between main working areas.

While some storage may be lost at the corner of the cabinets, there are products on the market that help overcome this problem. This kitchen is often integrated with the meals area in open-plan designs.

Single-line kitchen

Works well in small spaces and provides extra floor space. Most of the storage should be located overhead, while the appliances are situated under the benchtop, leaving a large workspace for chopping and other kitchen activities. Position workstations and appliances so that work flows along it for efficiency and safety.

This layout can be inefficient for serious cooks however, and if there is a doorway at either end of the kitchen family members will use it as a traffic area. It is advised to position the stove so it gets the least possible through-traffic.

Two-way galley

This design is an efficient use of space, with cabinets down each side of the kitchen. Walking distance is minimal as cupboards are located behind you and in front of you.

There needs to be enough space left between the two sides, so that you can cook effectively and so that people can walk around you. The two-way galley can suffer from the same problems with household traffic as the single-line kitchen.

Island

Combines any kitchen design with a separate workbench (the island) which can be used for food preparation. This works best in large areas and can be helpful when more than one person is cooking at any time.

From: www.realestate.com.au

Renovate Your Old Kitchen Island

2009-12-21T09:18:00.000+07:00

Instead of replacing that antique kitchen island, you can take the time to renovate it and make it look like new again. With a few simple steps your kitchen island can come alive again and add a dramatic flair to your kitchen. Some of the time, the renovation of an antique kitchen island is made necessary from salvaging it out of an old home, or buying it at an antique dealer.

What You Will Need

Tile

Grout

Mortar

Trowel

Cabinet Doors

Door Pulls

Varnish

Tarnish Remover

Brushes

Screwdriver

Sander

80-grit sand paper

Wood putty

Spreader

Step 1: Do an Inspection of Kitchen Island

At first glance you might think there is a lot of work needed in renovating an antique kitchen island. However, once you do an inspection you might see that that frame is still solid and it just needs some cosmetic work. The countertop needs replacing, a sink added, surface refinishing, and new cabinet doors might be all that is needed to spruce up the old island. Once you know what you are going to do, write it down and assemble all the tools, materials, and hardware you need.

Step 2: Strip Down Old Island

Use a sander and carefully strip away the old finish on the island. Get it down to the bare wood so you can fill in any gouges, cuts, or cracks with wood putty. Spread the putty into the cracks and let harden. Once it has hardened then you can sand it flush with the rest of the wood.

Step 3: Remove Old Countertop

Depending on what the countertop is made of, you might not have to replace it, but only refinish it. However, if the antique kitchen island has been neglected, you will need to remove the old countertop. Typically the countertop will be butcher block. This can be pried off with a small pry bar. Once it is removed, layout a new piece of plywood over the surface of the counter and prep it for laying tile. Spread the thin set mortar and set the tiles into the mortar according to your design. Apply the grout in between the tile spacings and then wash off with a wet sponge after it has dried.

Step 4: Replace Cabinet Doors

To add the finishing touches to the antique kitchen island renovation, remove the cabinet doors and look at how worn they are. Chances are, they will need to be replaced. Measure the openings and install new ones that will fit the opening and the style of the island.

Step 5: Renovate the Cabinet Door Pulls

To keep the antique style of the kitchen island try to keep as much of it original as you can. The cabinet door pulls will probably be made of wrought iron and will only need to be cleaned up with some tarnish remover to bring it back to near-original condition. Set it in a solution of tarnish remover overnight and then brush off the built-up dirt with a small wire brush. Dry them completely and touch up with some spray paint if needed.

Step 6: Refinish Kitchen Island

After everything is completed, clean the cabinet and remove any debris and sawdust. Use your favorite stain, or polyurethane sealer and give it a few coats to brighten it up and bring back its antique shine.

From: www.doityourself.com

Taking Care of the Budget When Renovating the Kitchen

2009-12-21T09:07:00.000+07:00

Even if the kitchen has a drab and worn look, many people chose to ignore it as they are apprehensive of the costs that would be incurred by re-modeling the kitchen. Now, it is a fact that if you renovate the kitchen all at once it will be very expensive, but if you do one thing at a time the cost can be minimized and you will get the look that you want for the kitchen. You should also realize that renovating the kitchen should not be looked upon as an expense, but as an investment because it will definitely increase the value of your home.

This does not apply only to people who are thinking of selling the house immediately. The reason is that keeping you house neat and tidy would be a great asset in case you make sudden plans regarding your house. Even otherwise, if you want to gauge the worth of the house, it makes sense to keep it in a good condition. This holds especially true as most people in a house spend maximum time in the bathroom or the kitchen. Because of this, these two areas acquire a drab look sooner than other rooms in the house. If you wait for too long, the cost is only going to increase as you will have to change almost everything in the kitchen.

On the other hand, if you make small changes like painting the kitchen first, the cost will almost be negligible. For example, $50 or thereabouts would-be the average money that you will have to spend for painting the kitchen. In other words, you have plenty of options while choosing the paint for your kitchen. Changing some minor accessories in the kitchen is also not going to cost you a lot.

Normally, while renovating the kitchen the most costly feature is the labour. However, if you take care of small problems like repairing holes in the wall or changing the counter-tops immediately rather than waiting to fix all of it at one go, it will be easy on your pocket. Many people ignore small problems until they snowball into larger problems and there is no choice except to undertake a major renovation for the kitchen.

If you do not want to spend too much money, you could eschew the use of wallpaper and opt for paint. Another thing that would really help you is planning the re-modeling of your kitchen beforehand. By doing this, you can look for sales in home improvement stores or other places so that you get the things you want without burning a hole in your pocket.

Many at times, walls and cabinets in the kitchen have Even if the kitchen has a drab and worn look, many people chose to ignore it as they are apprehensive of the costs that would be incurred by remodeling the kitchen. Now, it is a fact that if you renovate the kitchen all at once it will be very expensive, but if you do one thing at a time the cost can be minimized and you will get the look that you want for the kitchen. You should also realize that renovating the kitchen should not be looked upon as an expense, but as an investment because it will definitely increase the value of your home.

Normally, while renovating the kitchen the most costly feature is the labour. However, if you take care of small problems like repairing holes in the wall or changing the counter tops immediately rather than waiting to fix all of it at one go, it will be easy on your pocket. Many people ignore small problems until they snowball into larger problems and there is no choice except to undertake a major renovation for the kitchen.

If you do not want to spend too much money, you could eschew the use of wallpaper and opt for paint. Another thing that would really help you is planning the remodeling of your kitchen beforehand. By doing this, you can look for sales in home improvement stores or other places so that you get the things you want without burning a hole in your pocket.

Many at times, walls and cabinets in the kitchen have a dirty look because of the grease that has formed a thick layer over it. A simple task like cleaning the kitchen would give it a brand new look without any renovation. In this case, all you need is a good cleaning agent that will bring the shine back to your kitchen. Similarly, replacing the drawer pulls and door handles will change the appearance of your kitchen without costing you too much money and thereby creating Brave kitchen islands in the process.a dirty look because of the grease that has formed a thick layer over it. A simple task like cleaning the kitchen would give it a brand new look without any renovation. In this case, all you need is a good cleaning agent that will bring the shine back to your kitchen. Similarly, replacing the drawer pulls and door handles will change the appearance of your kitchen without costing you too much money and thereby creating Brave kitchen islands in the process.

Adam Peters is the editor of http://www.home-decorating-reviews.com

Read additional info on interior design or Brave kitchen islands

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Adam_Peters

Tips for Designing a Kitchen

2009-12-17T12:09:00.000+07:00

Design aspects for all areas of the kitchen
Environmental considerations
Tips for creating a functional and stylish new kitchen

Initial considerations

Be guided by common sense and convenience. Work out what's annoying about your existing kitchen - lack of light, bench space or power outlets, a single sink, a difficult-to-clean stovetop. Attempt to iron out those problems in the new design.

Don't be overly constrained by the existing configuration. Often pipes, gas lines electrics, walls and windows can be repositioned with less effort than you'd expect. Save money by retaining some fittings (resurfacing or refitting as needed).

To save you time and stress consider a kitchen design/installation package.
If clever design can't solve space problems consider expanding the kitchen via a buffet-style breakfast bar or island bench. Alternatively,If you enjoy al fresco entertaining and have sufficient space consider adding an outdoor kitchen.

Layout and traffic

Plan your kitchen considering the natural pattern of movement. Allow a comfortable distance between each of the kitchen's functions: storage, cooking, workspace, waste handling and washing up.

Position sink, fridge and cooktop so they form a 'work triangle'. The oven (or hotplate), sink and refrigerator should be no more than 7m apart in total and should be in the shape of a triangle.

Note that left- or right-handedness affects layout: for a good right-handed flow, position in this order (R to L): dishwasher/dishdrainer/sink, workspace, cooking unit, utility storage.

Position the sink, drainage and dishwasher first. This will comprise the biggest single unit in your kitchen. Sinks are usually placed against an outside wall under a window for convenient drainage and good natural lighting. The dishwasher should be close to the crockery and cutlery. It should also be away from doorways and stove, so it can be loaded easily.
Locate the food preparation areas between the stove and the sink.

Ensure appliances, sinks, benchtops and cabinetry all fit, accounting for the 'sweep' of doors and opening drawers and allowing for normal movement.

Allow 200mm clearance from the wall adjacent to the hinge of a fridge door and if installing a walloven, allow 200mm from any adjacent wall for elbow clearance. A minimum of 120cm is required between combinations in a double-sided kitchen so two people can work comfortably without getting in each other's way. The same distance is recommended between kitchen unit and dining table so that a person can sit comfortably at the table while another works by the kitchen counter.
Most kitchens will already have service points for major appliances. Changing these points can cost a great deal of money, so if you don't have an unlimited budget, your design choices may be somewhat predetermined.

If you're gutting your kitchen, consider installing extra power points at the time, as it is very expensive to get new ones put in when all the other work has been completed.

Work surfaces

Provide ample work surfaces in key areas: next to the refrigerator and oven; on both sides of the cooktop and sink. For safety and efficiency, allow adequate bench space for preparation (80-140cm between sink and hotplates, 30cm at each side of the cooktop) and serving (300mm for two plates, double for four); and at least 450mm set-down next to the fridge, pantry and wall oven. The recommended countertop depth is 60cm.

Set benches at varying heights to accommodate different tasks and users. A good working height is 80-95cm. Ensure your hotplate is lower and your sink higher than adjoining preparation benches. Avoid positioning a workspace or cooking unit in a corner.

3 Types of Kitchen Tile to Consider for Your New Kitchen Design

2009-12-17T07:47:00.000+07:00

Incorporating kitchen tiles into the design of your kitchen is a good way to bring out the beauty of your countertops and cabinets.

Kitchen tile is another important addition to kitchen decor. Because kitchen tile comes in all colors, sizes and materials it is possible to mix several colors to produce a certain design element, such as creating a stone or a marble look.

Kitchen tiles is not only used for floors, but also used on walls, as a backsplash or on countertops using specialty tiles with unique designs. Decorated ceramic tile backsplashes go with granite or corian countertops as well as tile.

Decorative kitchen tile can be used in countless number of ways in a tiled area. Most painted tiles are made of ceramic because of its extensive range of colors and designs.

Ceramic Kitchen Tile

Ceramic kitchen tile comes from earth. Ceramics are made from clay as well as talc, and other minerals, and after forming, the tiles are put through a firing process under high temperatures.
Because kitchen tiles are produced from materials that are cooked under such high temperatures the tiles conduct heat extremely well. This make kitchen tiles the perfect material for countertops. They will not burn when hot pots are placed on the counter.

Ceramic tile is made in numerous colors and can be customized to fit a certain color. A new trend in kitchen tile is mosaic tiles. Custom made mosaic tiles can be used to create a mural on your kitchen floor. Pre-made mosaic tiles are also sold to create murals. A mural with a backsplash can really add color to your kitchen design. Also a ceramic kitchen tiles backsplash is more attractive than a granite or
Corian backsplash.

Ceramic kitchen tile countertops are the right choice for your kitchen remodeling and cabinet refacing project since kitchen tile provide good durability, as well as the advantage of heat resistance.

Kitchen tiles works especially well on a vertical surface, providing a durable surface that is resistant to stains and splashes. On vertical surfaces the grout is less subject to stains than on countertops. Kitchen tiles are also water resistant, making them advantageous for any kitchen counter.

While kitchen tiles has many advantages you must be concerned about cleaning grout. Grout must be cleaned regularly or it will stain. Kitchen tiles can also chip and crack requiring replacement.

Porcelain Tile

Porcelain kitchen tile is very durable and is resistant to scratches or chips because it is made from the same material top and bottom. Porcelain kitchen tiles can be used to resemble real stone because the tiles are similar in shade and texture.

Glass Tile
Glass kitchen tiles were at one time very expensive, but in recent years it has become more affordable. They can be used in borders or in the creation of beautiful mosaics in countless colors and has the unique ability to reflect light, allowing it to bring out the beauty of each tile.

So kitchen tiles can be used for countertops, backsplashes, wall coverings, and flooring. They are available in almost limitless colors and designs.

James Mahoney is the author of many kitchen design articles and has a site about kitchen design ideas at Kitchen Designers Ideas.com. He also publishes a newsletter on kitchen design.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=James_Mahoney

Kitchen Planning Checklist

2009-12-16T09:16:00.003+07:00

General Layout Requirements

At least one work triangle is in place.

Total distance between points does not exceed 26'

Traffic patterns do not interfere with triangle.

Island/peninsula counters do not interfere with triangle

Counter Space Requirements

At least 36" in the mix/prep center.
At least 18" on one side and 24" on the other side of the sink.
At least 9" on one side and 15" on the other side of the cooktop.
At least 15" on one side of a built-in oven or 15" of space on an island counter that is no more than 48" from the front of the oven.
At least 15" on the opening side of the refrigerator or 15" of space on an island counter that is no more than 48" from the front of the refrigerator.

Appliance Space and Planning Requirements

Dishwasher within 36" of sink.

Sufficient space between dishwasher and adjacent counters, other appliances and cabinets to allow for loading and unloading (21" standing space recommended).

Bottom of microwave placed between counter and eye-level (approx. 24" to 48" off floor) with adjacent counter top work area.

Adequate ventilation available.

Other Space and Planning Requirements

At least 12" - 19" of leg room beneath eating areas in counters, peninsulas, islands and bars.

Sufficient, accessible storage available.

Aisles wide enough for two people to pass at least 48" in food prep areas at least 36" between facing cabinets.

Good overall lighting and task lighting at sink, range and work areas

From : http://www.doityourself.com/

Guide to Kitchen Planning

2009-12-16T08:09:00.000+07:00

Everything you need to know to layout a basic floor plan for your SuperKitchen! Standard sizes of cabinets, appliances and sinks plus industry standards for the Work Triangle, countertop space for task areas. Print out the kitchen planning grid for entering your room measurements and your 'rough draft'.

Cabinetry is sized using the 3" increment system. While custom and semi-custom (built-to-order) cabinets may allow some 'odd dimension' modifications, using the 3" system will serve you well when working on your basic floor plan.Most appliances are standardized sizes, but a few, like microwaves are not. Always check appliance manufacturer's specifications to be sure you have allowed the correct amount of space for your final selection in each category!

From: http://www.superkitchens.com/

Kitchen Decor

2009-12-15T07:34:00.000+07:00

A Guide to Kitchen Decor: Create the Kitchen You'll Love

If you need kitchen décor there are dozens of items that will work perfectly for your kitchen. Whether you are redecorating or just buying new kitchen décor for your kitchen,or if you just think your kitchen needs a new look, try accentuating your kitchen with accessories or furniture that can really change the appearance of your kitchen. You can create a beautiful kitchen, re-create a beautiful kitchen, or add a beautiful touch to your already beautiful kitchen.

Kitchen tile:

The tile in your kitchen is important for the overall look of your kitchen, as you know. One great tip is to replace your kitchen tile when it seems to stand out in an unsightly way.

Window curtains:

Window curtains can make all the difference. Depending on the size and style of your kitchen, the window curtains in your kitchen can really become the focal point of the room. With window curtains that are pleasing to the eye can be the most impressive piece of kitchen décor you can buy.

Plants:

The color green and the freshness of the room that only plants can give, is a great touch for almost any room.

Hanging plants are one of the most popular items of kitchen décor. Plants and flowers are beautiful additions to any kitchen.

Along with hanging plants, potted plants and even little herbal gardens for the windowsill. Plants can make a great contribution!

Countertops:

There are many kinds of countertops to choose from. Find one style that really suits your personal style and fits your kitchen perfectly.

The most beautiful kitchen countertops I have seen have taken the cake, so to speak in terms of becoming the focal point of the kitchen. As such a part of very important kitchen décor, you can not go without a nice countertop that is pleasing to the eye.

Though serving a practical purpose as well, the kitchen décor of countertops can be absolutely stunning in your kitchen.

For example:
I was able to choose from a number of amazingly pleasing to the eye solid granite countertops. They were some of the most stunning counter tops I have ever seen. Such kitchen décor would not only become the focal pint of the kitchen, one of these countertops would give my kitchen an absolutely memorizing touch. With granite you do not even require a cutting board when cooking!

The countertop I chose is a prime example of kitchen décor because the granite is a few shades of dark gray with iridescent blue in one hundred percent natural streaks and splotches. The rest of the items in the kitchen have at least a touch of the same light blue, whenever possible.

Table and chairs:

The other of the two primary functions of the kitchen is completely provided by your choice of tables and chairs. You want to have table and chairs that are pleasing to the eye and that tie together with the overall look of the kitchen. Tables and chairs are an essential part of the decor. Perhaps almost as essential in appearance as they are in function.

Accessories:

Often items such as: soap dispensers, baking supplies, dinnerware, linens and hand towels, knife sets, appliances, wine racks, tea sets, drying racks, decorative shelves, dinner trays, tupperware containers, decorative cabinets, candy dish, trash cans, window thermometer, clocks, wall décor, paper towel holders, rolling pins, cutting boards, baskets etc. come in very beautiful designs.

And these are just a few extras in the world of kitchen décor that you can easily add to your kitchen to give it a more stylish, elegant, luxurious, or trendy look. The way you decorate your kitchen is very much a matter of personal style.

Anne Clarke writes numerous articles for websites on gardening, parenting, fashion, and home decor. Her background includes teaching and gardening. For more of her articles on Home decor please visit Kitchen Decor.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Anne_Clarke

Kitchen Remodeling and Design

2009-12-14T08:40:00.002+07:00

Kitchen remodeling will increase the design, function and resale value of a home. This section provides information about building kitchen cabinets, re-facing kitchen cabinets, selecting a kitchen cabinet style, selecting a kitchen countertop style, and planning a kitchen design that will look great and maximize the amount of available storage space.

The kitchen is the heart of the home. The hub. The family meeting ground. Where it all gets done: cooking, entertaining, conversation, math homework. Whatever lifestyle revolves around your kitchen, making it a place you want to spend your time is an exciting venture. Superkitchens is the place to be to get design ideas, product information, the latest trends, help from experts and links to the very best the industry has to offer.

From custom cabinetry to decorative drawer pulls and everything in between, Superkitchens is the comprehensive source for all of your design needs. Is your style Traditional, Modern or Contemporary? Not quite sure? Browse through the showcase of kitchens in the gallery or view selections of counter tops, flooring, lighting and windows to zero in on a kitchen style that will suite your family’s taste.

Transforming the room with a complete kitchen makeover? Superkitchens can assist you to manage your remodel, estimate your cost, and should you choose to, select a design professional who can advise you on everything from measuring for new appliances to selecting an elegant faucet. Updating your kitchen with a new look? A fresh coat of paint, new wallpaper or changing the window treatments can go a long way in refreshing the style of your kitchen.

Get inspired by everything Superkitchens has to offer. Even the most utilitarian items can inspire the style of your kitchen, like a stainless steel range hood or a granite sink. Whether designing around a six-burner gourmet stove or seating for your six children, let those inspirations guide you to design the Superkitchen of your dreams.

From: http://www.superkitchens.com/ & http://www.doityourself.com/scat/kitchenc

Kitchen Remodeling

2009-12-09T09:36:00.000+07:00

Kitchens - Top Tips For Remodeling Your Kitchen

For those who live in the state of Minnesota, home improvement is an important topic, just like it is everywhere else in the country. Of course one of the rooms in homes that most often ends up needing a face lift is the kitchen. After all, in many homes, the living is all centered around the kitchen. If you are planning a kitchen remodel in your Twin Cities home, then you are probably interested in some kitchen remodeling ideas and tips. Here are some tops tips that will help you out when remodeling your kitchen.

Look for Some Inspiration for Your Kitchen Remodel
The first thing you'll want to do when you are planning a kitchen renovation is to look for some inspiration for your kitchen remodel. This is one of the best and easiest ways that you can get a good start on this project. It's extremely easy to find inspiration for your kitchen. Although it used to be that you had to spend time in home improvement stores or time collecting a variety of magazines and brochures, with the internet it's much easier. You can easily and quickly browse through many different photos of kitchens on the web that will give you the inspiration that you need for your kitchen remodel.

Come Up with a Remodeling Plan
Making a plan is also important when it comes to remodeling a kitchen. You can choose the way you want your appliances, counters, and cabinets all laid out. It's actually very easy to create your plans. There are even some programs, such as SmartDraw, that will help you to design your own kitchen.

Make Sure You Keep Your Budget in Mind
If you're doing a kitchen remodel, it's imperative that you keep your budget in mind. Make sure that you know how much money you have to work with before you begin your remodeling project. This way you can budget it out accordingly. Instead of spending 50% of your budget on cabinets that are brand new, consider refinishing the ones that you have. They'll look great and you'll spend a whole lot less money this way.

Use Some Paint for a New Look
In order to get a great new look, use some new paint. Believe it or not, changing the color of the kitchen walls can make a huge difference in your kitchen without you having to spend a huge amount of money. If you want a look that is cozy, reds and yellows are great choices. Light colors will help to make the room look like it is bigger, which is great for smaller spaces. Blues can make your kitchen look elegant and sophisticated as well. Of course when you are considering the right colors, make sure that you consider the rest of the elements in your kitchen as well as the general décor of your home.

Update the Kitchen Details for a New Look
To make your money go a long way while still giving your kitchen a great new look, consider updating the details in your kitchen. If you have an older kitchen, you can do a whole lot by purchasing new details, such as handles and door knobs for the kitchen that are actually updated. There are so many different options to choose from when it comes to fixtures and handles as well, which means you can get details that will go with just about any type of décor you have in mind for the remodeled kitchen.

Consider a Variety of Textures for the Counters
When it comes to kitchen designs, you should consider a variety of textures for the counters when doing a kitchen remodel in the Twin Cities suburbs. Colors and textures can both be used together to provide your kitchen with a great look. There are so many different types of textures that can be used for your counters, including marble, granite, and even wood.

Take the Lighting to a New Level
Take the lighting in your kitchen to a whole new level when you are remodeling it. Having a lot of lighting the kitchen is very important. You can used under the cabinet lights to make it easy to work in the kitchen. Recessed lighting is a great idea and you can add a few pendant lights that are task specific to make sure that you have great light in key areas as well. There are many excellent lighting choices that will allow you to have a very dramatic difference in your kitchen.

Organize and Schedule the Entire Project
When you are doing any remodeling project, such as a kitchen remodel, it's important that you organize and schedule the entire project carefully. If you take the time to get organized and to come up with a schedule, you'll find that the project is not near as stressful for you. Come up with a timetable for when you want certain parts of the project to be done. You can come up with tool lists, supply lists, and more to help you stay more organized throughout the entire project.

Always Keep the Big Picture in Mind
You are always going to want to keep the big picture in mind when you are doing kitchen remodeling in St. Paul or Minneapolis. When you come up with choices for the textures, colors, appliances, and more, then you can bring everything together in your mind. As you go through all the stages of a remodel, it will really help you out if you keep the entire picture in your mind.

Visit http://www.remodelminnesota.com to learn more about remodeling a home in MN. John Mazzara is involved with financial services in the Twin Cities, MN. Officing out of Edina, Minnesota-John is centrally located within the 7 county MN metropolitan area. John owns three separate businesses-a licensed real estate broker associate selling Minnesota real estate since 1986-affiliated with RE/MAX Associates Plus http://www.MinneapolisStPaulHomes.com, an independent CFP-certified financial planner since 1989 with an independent Minnesota financial planning firm-Financial Planning Associates and the owner of a Minnesota mortgage broker firm-Venture Development Inc-specializing ins residential, commercial and investment mortgages If you are looking for someone to help you in the areas of real estate sales/purchase, mortgages, or and/or financial planning and insurance you should call John for a free 1 hour consultation to see if he can meet your needs. 952-929-2577. RE/MAX Associates Plus and Venture Development are located at 7300 France Ave S, Suite 410, Edina, MN 55435

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=John_Mazzara

Kitchen Design Trends

2009-12-08T08:04:00.001+07:00

What's New and Hot in Kitchen Design Trends

Today's modern kitchen serves as a family hub of household activity and entertaining. They are now well lit, open places. The kitchen's size and design should address your family's lifestyle and how your kitchen is used for cooking, eating and entertaining. Since the kitchen is called on to fill more roles than any other room in the house they have had to increase in size as well. Today's kitchen design challenge is in creating an open-faced kitchen - one that's part of a dining area, family room or so-called great room.

Both the function and style of the modern kitchen play important roles when tackling a kitchen design or renovation project.
If you're remodeling an existing kitchen or planning a kitchen addition or a new home, here is some current kitchen design trends to keep in mind.

One of the more recent trends in modern kitchen design ideas is to make the kitchen part of a 'great room', that is to combine the kitchen with an adjacent family room. To create the great room the wall separating the kitchen and family room or dining room is completely removed creating a more open space centered by a spacious kitchen island or peninsula.

There are some definite advantages to expanding the kitchen. You can open up the space and in so doing you make both the kitchen and the other room look and feel more specious. Also since kitchen cabinetry, countertops and appliances are beautiful pieces of furniture in their own right you can now show off your new kitchen. Your remodeling costs won't really increase all that much by opening up the kitchen other than the cost of extra cabinetry. Anyway the added cost that would be put into this type of kitchen design would be more that offset by the increase in the value of your home.

Furniture-style cabinetry will continue to be a popular trend in kitchen design at least according to the National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA). These furniture-style cabinets are considered to be especially popular in the development of kitchen islands. Features that give cabinets a furniture-like appearance are legs or bun feet, corbals onlays and mouldings. Cabinet doors are made with solid hardwoods, the most popular being maple and cherry. As for finishes light and medium finishes continue to be popular, although kitchen designers and trendwatchers also see a growing interest in deep, rich browns as influenced by the furniture industry to some extent and to create a more formal look for the kitchen.

Cabinet manufacturers and kitchen designers are starting to design more individual and freestanding pieces of furniture instead of the usual built-in cabinetry for expanded 'great room' kitchens. This is known as the 'unfited' kitchen design first popularized by English designers and cabinetmakers. This also leads to another trend of incorporating features from heirloom quality furniture such as glazed, distressed and antique finishes.

Undermounted sinks in both cast iron and stainless steel are among recent changes in kitchen design because homeowners like the clean smooth look which blends with modern designs. The advantages of an undermounted sink are that it is functional, beautiful and very easy to install. The bowl is attached underneath a countertop. No sink rim shows above the countertop and there is no lip to collect water and catches dirt and crumbs. Instead debris is easily swept into the sink so that the counter can be cleaned faster.

Other recent trends in modern kitchen design include:

Countertops: Natural stone remains most popular countertop material with the most popular being granite. Limestone is another popular choice. Mixing different materials is becoming more common, using stone on some counters, butcher block or concrete on others.

Appliances: Commercial quality appliances are becoming popular particularly ranges, as are built in refrigerators and European style dishwashers. Warming drawers and convection microwave ovens that can be used as a second oven are also popular.

Putting pots and pans into drawers. With heavy-duty drawer glides one can put large, heavy pots in drawers instead of cupboards now.

Cabinet door thickness is likely to be 1 inch instead of 3/4 inch since this size is more considered as being of higher quality.

Glazed, distressed and antique finishes are being used more and more to replace traditional ornate details once used on many high-end cabinets.

Painted finishes now include colors as cranberry, white, off-white and oyster.

According to kitchen designers as today's kitchen expands in size and complexity, "mixed orders" are becoming more commonplace. Kitchen islands, wet bars, baking centers and butler's pantries are being incorporated into more and more kitchen designs creating the need for more contrasts-in cabinet styles, colors, types of wood and finishes.

James Mahoney is the author of many kitchen design articles and has a site about kitchen design ideas at http://www.kitchendesignersideas.com He also publishes a newsletter on kitchen design.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=James_Mahoney

Design A Kitchen

2009-12-08T07:56:00.005+07:00

Tips for designing a kitchen

Kitchens are rooms people are drawn to, like moths to a flame. So naturally they should be practical and cheerful, while using smart design to make the space as user-freindly as possible. Follow our helpful tips that won't break the budget and uses kitchen areas to their full potential.

Initial considerations

Be guided by common sense and convenience. Work out what's annoying about your existing kitchen - lack of light, bench space or power outlets, a single sink, a difficult-to-clean stovetop. Attempt to iron out those problems in the new design.

Don't be overly constrained by the existing configuration. Often pipes, gas lines electrics, walls and windows can be repositioned with less effort than you'd expect. Save money by retaining some fittings (resurfacing or refitting as needed).

To save you time and stress consider a kitchen design/installation package.
If clever design can't solve space problems consider expanding the kitchen via a buffet-style breakfast bar or island bench. Alternatively,If you enjoy al fresco entertaining and have sufficient space consider adding an outdoor kitchen.

Layout and traffic

Plan your kitchen considering the natural pattern of movement. Allow a comfortable distance between each of the kitchen's functions: storage, cooking, workspace, waste handling and washing up.

Position sink, fridge and cooktop so they form a 'work triangle'. The oven (or hotplate), sink and refrigerator should be no more than 7m apart in total and should be in the shape of a triangle.

Note that left- or right-handedness affects layout: for a good right-handed flow, position in this order (R to L): dishwasher/dishdrainer/sink, workspace, cooking unit, utility storage.

Position the sink, drainage and dishwasher first. This will comprise the biggest single unit in your kitchen. Sinks are usually placed against an outside wall under a window for convenient drainage and good natural lighting. The dishwasher should be close to the crockery and cutlery. It should also be away from doorways and stove, so it can be loaded easily.
Locate the food preparation areas between the stove and the sink.

Ensure appliances, sinks, benchtops and cabinetry all fit, accounting for the 'sweep' of doors and opening drawers and allowing for normal movement.

Allow 200mm clearance from the wall adjacent to the hinge of a fridge door and if installing a walloven, allow 200mm from any adjacent wall for elbow clearance. A minimum of 120cm is required between combinations in a double-sided kitchen so two people can work comfortably without getting in each other's way. The same distance is recommended between kitchen unit and dining table so that a person can sit comfortably at the table while another works by the kitchen counter.
Most kitchens will already have service points for major appliances. Changing these points can cost a great deal of money, so if you don't have an unlimited budget, your design choices may be somewhat predetermined.

If you're gutting your kitchen, consider installing extra power points at the time, as it is very expensive to get new ones put in when all the other work has been completed.

Work surfaces

Provide ample work surfaces in key areas: next to the refrigerator and oven; on both sides of the cooktop and sink. For safety and efficiency, allow adequate bench space for preparation (80-140cm between sink and hotplates, 30cm at each side of the cooktop) and serving (300mm for two plates, double for four); and at least 450mm set-down next to the fridge, pantry and wall oven. The recommended countertop depth is 60cm.

Set benches at varying heights to accommodate different tasks and users. A good working height is 80-95cm. Ensure your hotplate is lower and your sink higher than adjoining preparation benches. Avoid positioning a workspace or cooking unit in a corner.

From: www.realestate.com.au

Innovative Contemporary Kitchen Designs

2009-12-07T10:46:00.000+07:00

Get Contemporary Design Flair, Innovation & Beauty With Unique Contemporary Kitchen Designs

When considering contemporary kitchen designs, you should be mindful of several design factors:

Cabinets – Contemporary kitchen designs will typically feature light wood cabinets, such as alder, ash or birch; or metal, such as stainless steel
Door & Drawer Pulls – The contemporary kitchen will feature no drawer or door pulls, or something simple and metallic
Countertops – Granite or some other solid stone surface is commonly featured in contemporary kitchens, as opposed to colored laminates
Flooring – Wood flooring is most often attributed to contemporary kitchen designs, but you might also try simple ceramic, marble or slate
Appliances – Most commonly attributed to contemporary kitchen designs is stainless steel
Lighting – Stained glass, chandeliers and fluorescent banks for lights are conspicuously missing in a truly contemporary kitchen; try recessed lighting, or simple hanging lights, focusing on specific objects below

Whatever kitchen renovation plans you’re considering, you can turn your kitchen into a modern chic cooking center. Be sure you consider all of these design points. Quality designers and well thought out kitchen renovation plans will encompass all aspects of a room, from top to bottom.

Let the experts at Kitchen Designers Ideas help in finding your dream contemporary kitchen designs. We’ve got the know-how to make your kitchen renovation plans come true! Contact one of our knowledgeable resources today!

Plan3D.com
http://www.anrdoezrs.net/click-1903760-10359261

e-DesignBooks.com
http://www.e-designbooks.com/?hop=jimmah2

Cabinet-Hardware-Online.com
http://www.cabinet-hardware-online.com/kitchen-cabinets.php/?aff=jmahoney

ReliableRemodeler.com
http://www.anrdoezrs.net/click-1903760-10362932

From: http://kitchendesignersideas.com/

Introduction

2009-12-07T10:27:00.002+07:00

This Blog will discuss about all that was connected with the kitchen.
We can share all about it. Let's start.....