by Chris Boulton | Oct 15, 2014 | Cabinets 101, Homeowners
Time is Money Kitchen remodeling projects, especially those taking place within new and old Arizona homes alike, are major contenders amongst the many options within the field of home improvement. They are a task that, while full of fun and excitement as you have newer things to explore and assemble, can cost you a considerable amount of time, money and effort. Home improvement can often be decribed as a bonding process that brings the family together within a new outlook within a fresh and modern space, but at the same time, a project that lasts too long or goes over budget can put strain on the already arduous task of changing your kitchen for the better. A kitchen remodeling assignment may consist of total rebuilding, complete replacement, or some partial modifications that are made to countertops, kitchen cabinets and kitchen appliances. A Chandler or Scottsdale kitchen remodeling project may require handsome investment for this task. However, an expertly crafted kitchen remodel results in an enduring sense of fulfillment, and means of bonding for family members, especially a reason to eat together, and most importantly a way of making cooking easier and more accessible to all members of your desert home. We at Cornerstone Cabinet Company would like to help you, the homeowner, by disclosing certain key points that can make this daunting task much more manageable and will help you grasp the entire situation at hand and assist you in running it smoothly without any unnecessary steps or procedures. Important factors to consider when planning a home kitchen remodel are: Decide the needs, wants, and overarching objectives of your...
by Chris Boulton | Oct 7, 2014 | Cabinets 101, Homeowners
Let’s Get Started More cabinetry for less? Can it be accomplished? By adding various features, form and style you can make basic cabinetry look more like semi-custom. This is welcome news whether you are working with basic cabinetry or custom cabinetry. Take an assessment of what you truly want in your kitchen. Is style or function & durability more important? Hopefully your designer will address both with you and deliver everything you desire within your total investment you plan on making. We say it often in our blogs and it bears repeating. There are considerations to be made when you choose kitchen cabinets. How long are you planning on staying in this home? Make an assessment of resale values. What is your investment amount? What are your kitchen layout ideas? Are they supported by the available space? You must have exact appliance specifications before any final designs are drawn. Specialty cabinetry, accessories and moldings can always be matched up for your cabinetry. Where will my money count the most? Do Your Research Work First (Then Relax and Enjoy the Process) Researching prior to the project can save you time and money. There are hundreds of places to go find cabinets. All Kitchen Designers are not equal. Be sure to check us out to find the designer that is going to give you the design and help you need. Your designer will guide you through your choices and help make you the best decisions for you. Bottom line we would say is to know what you want, pair that with a Professional Kitchen Designer and you should be just fine. One of the reasons we ask in the beginning how long you plan on staying in your home...
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...
