by Chris Boulton | Sep 15, 2014 | Architects, Cabinets 101, Contractors, Homeowners, Interior Designers
When beginning to think of remodeling your kitchen floor plan, one thing that many homeowners either forget about or look past is the option to change the layout of the kitchen cabinetry. Here are four traditional kitchen cabinet layouts that can maximize space. A properly designed kitchen needs two things: plenty of storage, and a lot of space to move around. To properly maximize the amount of room and storage in your kitchen, you need proper cabinet planning. The four major design plans used in the majority of home kitchens are: Galley, Island, U-shape, and L-shape. Galley Kitchen Cabinet Layouts The galley kitchen is made from two rows of cabinets running alongside one another. Because it is a very efficient form of cabinet spacing, the galley kitchen layout is the top choice for many professional and at-home chefs. The two rows will allow for easy movement through the kitchen, as well as quick access to preparation areas. However, homeowners thinking about galley kitchens should pay attention of the width of the kitchen, because a room that is too narrow can create a cramped atmosphere. We recommend considering more base cabinets near appliances in a galley kitchen. Island Kitchen Cabinet Layouts Island kitchen cabinets offer easy access from all points to the main storage and cooking counter. Island cabinets and counters are often promoted for their appeal in comfortable and tasteful living. The island allows the cook a commanding position, so he or she can see the entire room to listen, enjoy, and control the atmosphere. U-Shape Kitchen Cabinet Layouts A U-shape kitchen takes advantage of all but one wall...
by Chris Boulton | Sep 12, 2014 | Cabinets 101, Homeowners
As in most homes, the heart can be found in the kitchen. We find that to be truer with our seniors. We meet in the kitchen for just about everything. I look at my grandmother and remember that cooking was how she showed her love to us. We lived a much simpler life fifty years ago. Still today, all of us cook, eat and socialize in our kitchens. It is the heart/hub of our lives and home. Let’s help our aging family members have a great experience as they continue to live on their own. Getting the kitchen senior ready is one of the most important things we can do. We know that all homes are different and people are too. So, be sure to evaluate the home in question with the seniors that will live there. Do this before any renovations. This will allow you to make the necessary changes needed for those individuals. Here is a list we have compiled any senior choosing to age in their own home. We have included some important how and why information of remodeling. This list is a small recommendation of what will need to be discussed with your Kitchen Designer. Upper wall cabinets should be installed 3” lower at 51” above the floor Decorative accent strips at the countertop edge provides visual assistance Extra countertop landing spaces flanking all appliances Extra accessories for ease of storage Thought as to appliances and their placement, the dishwasher can be raised for a more pleasant experience when loading & unloading Appliances should have easy to read controls There is a plethora of information needed to be sure the remodel or new home are prepared properly. Ergonomic design consideration is key...
by Chris Boulton | Aug 15, 2014 | Cabinets 101, Homeowners
The majority of your Arizona kitchen remodeling budget by far will be spent on materials. New kitchen remodeling ideas in the past ten years have incorporated unique, innovative, and beautiful cabinetry made from a huge range of woods, synthetics and recycled materials. Your available options when choosing to remodel your kitchen include: Cabinets Cabinets are the most important consideration for most Arizona kitchen remodeling projects. Since they usually line every wall in the room, your custom cabinetry can set the tone for your entire room. Cabinet retailers around the country have developed designs that range from traditional to chic and modern styles, in any color imaginable. Cabinets can be made from wood, bamboo, laminate, and even stainless steel. Countertops Countertops are best implemented when they coordinate with cabinets. There is a limitless array of styles in materials that range from stoic granite to enchanting and unique recycled glass. A natural look can be used, or perhaps a daring vision can manifest with bold, bright colors. Tiles are a fantastic countertop material and they can be incorporated into retroactive kitchen wall tile designs that add to your Arizona home’s décor. Lighting Lighting is usually most under-estimated component when planning a kitchen remodel. Lighting, when artistically crafted, can set a sublime mood, give you the best environment for preparing food, and add an artistic flair. Contractors in the know are able to find lighting that matches your overall décor, and which is as functional as it is beautiful. Flooring A design plan for a kitchen remodeling project isn’t complete without addressing the flooring. Flooring choice should not only coordinate with a...
by Chris Boulton | Aug 1, 2014 | Cabinets 101, Homeowners
Common Design Myths Debunked Many of “rules” do not make much sense at all. Whether you plan to build or remodel, it can become a taxing and difficult project. There are decisions most would never think to ask. Then, of course, those complicated rules! Rules that could cost you efficiency in your kitchen. Or rules that destroy the design and look you had hoped for. So let’s take a look at a few of the most common so called rules I come upon. The amount of space between the island countertop and other countertops needs to be more than 36”. I prefer 48” when possible and it is is a must for a two-cook kitchen. If you have a single cook kitchen then plan for at least 42” of space. Many people feel the dishwasher should be placed in conjunction to whether you are right or left handed. Not true. Dishwashers can be designed into your kitchen design where it works best for you. Since humans are creatures of habit, it won’t take long to become comfortable with the dishwasher location. Stop and think about how often you actually look out your window when washing dishes. Exactly! Why be forced to put the sink under the window then? In the early days of kitchens, the sink was needed at the window to toss out the used water! In our present day kitchens, we are free to design the kitchen sink where it works best for you. Even though the rules would allow a tiny island in the kitchen, why? You might have a small landing space while you destroy...
by Chris Boulton | Jun 15, 2014 | Cabinets 101
Traditionally we have all loved to gather in the kitchen. The popularity of an open plan kitchen is in vogue more now than in past years. We purposely plan for no separation between the kitchen, living, outdoors and dining areas. This encourages ideal interaction as it allows your guests room to move freely. Our kitchens are designed to fit the needs of our present day lifestyles. With the many small appliances and gadgets we have, the design is much more important today. As we plan for multiple cooks, school homework and parties it is very important to bring the design together. There can be challenges in creating your perfect social kitchen. So we will look at a few ideas to help you build the benefits into your perfect entertaining kitchen. Create Life Action Areas When entertaining, an area for preparing and serving beverages is a must. A custom beverage hot spot stocked with all the needs for your bartender is a must. Warming drawers will be another consideration to give the host and hostess more time to enjoy their guests. Appropriate refrigeration units placed in your kitchen is also an important part of your entertainment open kitchen. An open layout with room to roam throughout makes a more pleasant atmosphere for your family and guests. Be sure to plan several sitting areas for your guests to sit down to chat and eat. Of course you can easily boost your hosting scores with your great looking appliances. Not to mention their fantastic function. Get with your kitchen designer for more great options. Prepare Storage To Hide The Mess ...
by Chris Boulton | Feb 15, 2014 | Architects, Cabinets 101, Contractors, Homeowners, Interior Designers
OakCraft Elegant Cabinetry has been committed to serving and satisfying their customers’ needs for more than two decades, supplying natural, real wood cabinets throughout Phoenix, Arizona and the western region of the United States. With numerous options for your bath, entertainment center, kitchen and home office cabinetry, the possibilities are limited only by one’s imagination. OakCraft is also committed to conserving and respecting the environment in the conduct of their business and operations and earned the Environmental Stewardship Certificate Program (ESP) certification from the Kitchen Cabinet Manufacturers Association (KCMA) in 2007. OakCraft consultants can produce any shape of natural wood cabinet door for your home design needs, including raised and recessed panels, with arch, square, or shaker style, as well as other miscellaneous styles. You also have 9 different and beautiful wood species to choose from to compliment your home and paint styles. Any dealer of OakCraft wood cabinets can help you choose, should you wish, the perfect natural wood species to show off your preferred stain or paint job. Benefits of OakCraft Elegant Cabinetry Phoenix homeowners can be assured that when they go with OakCraft, they can expect the utmost standard of quality in product and installation. OakCraft natural wood cabinets are a paragon example of rugged strength and style, and will keep their beauty intact much longer than a typical home cabinet installation. These cabinets are constructed of a hard natural wood that will resist scratches and dents for years to come. There are added environmental benefits of choosing OakCraft wood cabinets, as well. The company’s award-winning environmental track record is outstanding, and goes a long way...
