Mr. Jackson
@mrjackson

Are floor to ceiling cabinets safe to use?

by | Nov 30, 2023 | Homeowners

As discussed in “How to draw more natural light into your kitchen,” there are a number of ways that floor to ceiling cabinets can change a kitchen. While it’s hard to argue the advantages they offer, it’s important to understand how best to use them. You see, placing items too high or too low can be hazardous to your health. But it doesn’t have to be that way. In our quest to live in beautiful homes, it’s easy to overlook safety and function. The best home design incorporates both. This is the goal of Universal Design (UD) which adapts homes to everyone’s capabilities without sacrificing appearance. When it comes to cabinetry, it’s important to minimize the number of times you have to reach up or bend down to retrieve items, especially those used most often. Not only inconvenient, it can put you off balance. This might seem counterintuitive to floor to ceiling cabinets… but there’s no reason not to have them. The following tips show the best ways to access all your kitchen cabinets: Store frequently used items where it’s most convenient – preferably from waist to shoulder height. Light weight items are best stored on top and bottom shelves. Medium weight items should be kept between knee and eye levels. Heavier items should be stored between mid-thigh and shoulder height. These guidelines help homeowners retrieve everything they need quickly and easily without challenging their balance. It’s one reason why Universal Design is gaining momentum. But here’s the best part. Well designed homes built and remodeled with Universal Design principles are beautiful, therefore, you don’t have to hesitate to...

Trends for Kitchens in 2024!

by | Nov 29, 2023 | Homeowners

Just a few years ago, kitchens were all about modern and minimal design; with bright white hues and sleek countertops seen time and time again in the world of interior design. But now, we’re seeing many more designers create far more organic-looking kitchens, incorporating dark and earthy colors, natural materials, and contrasting textures.  Click here to continue...

Farmhouse kitchens are more popular than ever

by | Nov 23, 2023 | Homeowners, Interior Designers

The increased popularity of farmhouse kitchens is easy to understand. With kitchens becoming the focus for friends and family interaction, this style is comfortable, cozy and loaded with charm without being cluttered. While similar to country, farmhouse style uses salvaged materials like reclaimed wood that retains a certain level of sophistication. Even antiques fit it but not ones that are too delicate. The idea is to create a down-home feeling that invites everyone to relax and enjoy each other. Typical materials include: reclaimed wood wide plank floors wrought iron and vintage accessories larger, comfortable furniture particularly pine furniture architectural salvage To get started, you want to work with a color palette of warm or cool neutrals. Colors like cream, beige, grey and silver sage make good starts. What’s important is to use the colors you like but stay with light or neutral shades. Since woods are a key component, look for pieces with some wear and tear but not ravaged. Details like scratches, knots and nicks add authenticity and individuality. Mix woods with metals, but don’t forget fabrics like cotton, canvas, wool and chenille. It’s important to use a variety of textures to prevent the space from looking flat. When it comes to metals, layer in a mixture of light fixtures, hardware and accents like railings. A good rule of thumb is to use no more than three metals per room. Organic materials keep an ‘outdoor’ connection.  Wood floors are best but don’t rule out stone. When it comes to additional architectural details consider wicker, rattan, sisal and other natural materials. Whatever you choose, don’t try to cram in...

How to Add Ambiance (And Safety) to Your Kitchen

by | Nov 9, 2023 | Contractors, Homeowners, Interior Designers, Uncategorized

Universal Design is an interior design that adapts homes to homeowners, not the other way around. The goal is to make the entire home safe and easy to use. When it comes to kitchens, here’s one design tip that adapts your kitchen to your needs plus transforms it into a dining area with ambiance. You’ll be amazed to see how one small addition to your cabinetry can make such a difference. When it comes to base cabinets, most manufacturers include an indentation to make room for your feet called the toe kick space. Typically 3 inches deep and about 3 1/2 inches high, this space allows people to stand closer to the countertop so they don’t have to lean forward. Standing closer puts less strain on the back, shoulders and arms and minimizes discomfort, posture issues and chronic pain. The addition of light to this space adds both safety and ambiance. Here’s how. First, it clearly defines the break from floor to cabinets.  Especially advantageous at night, you minimize the possibility of bumping into things. This definition also aids early morning and evening meal preparation. Another advantage is that lighting placed within the toe kick can’t cause a glare. One goal of Universal Design is to balance lighting. It doesn’t matter if you have 20/20 vision, wear glasses or have a family member with sight issues; too much light is just as dangerous as too little. Foot level lighting balances overhead lighting and the combination eliminates shadows. Finally, toe kick lighting sets the ambiance of a kitchen. The soft glow creates an atmosphere that makes your meal more relaxed…...