by Cornerstone Cabinet Company | Dec 28, 2023 | Architects, Homeowners, Interior Designers
Although not a new concept, Universal Design has been slow to go main stream. But that’s changing for two reasons. First is our aging population – often referred to as the “Silver Tsunami.” Second is the acknowledgement of residents who don’t fit the profile of the “average guy.” Traditionally homes were, and still are, designed for a 5’ 10” tall male between the ages of 20 and 40. This profile eliminates the overwhelming majority of home residents and forces people to adapt to these specs. These days, our aging population is pressing for homes that adapt to their needs. A recent edition of the AARP magazine features the Property Brothers. The article includes a cartoon section where the brothers explain the benefits of Universal Design to their parents. They point out features like sensor-style touch faucets, raised dishwashers and organized storage in cabinets and drawers. And Universal Design is not just for aging. The same advantages apply to all ages. Think about a child working on a coloring book or other project at the kitchen island. Do you want them perched on a bar stool where their feet can’t reach the floor? Some countertop heights can be lower to keep them grounded. It’s not only safer for everyone, it encourages family interaction. People mistake Universal Design as a concept that applies only to older people and those with special needs and think of it as institutional. Not true. Done right, safety features can be seamlessly incorporated into the décor and create beautiful, updated rooms. Whether you desire to Age-in-Place, make your home safer or simply update your look; talk...
by Cornerstone Cabinet Company | Dec 27, 2023 | Architects, Contractors, Homeowners, Interior Designers
Modern interiors are marked by clean, sleek lines for nearly all elements of the design. Whether the home leans ultra-modern or has a modern-contemporary interior design, sticking to straight lines is the best way to convey the style, especially in the little details. When it comes to designing a kitchen, many homeowners are often focused on colors and materials. However, small details like the edge of the countertop can make a big impact. So, if you’re designing a modern kitchen, you’ll want to stick with countertop edges that are straight and sleek, such as the square edge. Click here to read...
by Cornerstone Cabinet Company | Dec 21, 2023 | Homeowners, Interior Designers
Believe it or not, your bathroom cabinets are the key to the room’s overall appearance. Just be careful not to let appearance distract you from the ultimate goal of safety and storage. Fortunately today’s cabinets are masters of organization. They include improvements like built-in drawer dividers, cosmetic trays and appliance garages. From hand cream to hair dryers and electric toothbrushes, the goal is to keep everyday items within easy reach and electronic items dry. For bathrooms with enough room, you have options like linen towers and closet-like spaces to hang clothes so they’re ready to put on right after the shower. And under-cabinet lighting is for more than just kitchens. Cabinets with light rails and other forms of built-in illumination keep countertop and floor surfaces evenly lit. This is especially important as bathrooms usually have more wet surfaces than any other room. When it comes to appearance, another trend is cabinetry with a more furniture-like look. This uses more and smaller pieces with bun feet and raised panels. Generally made of wood, the most popular options are dark cherry and walnut. If you opt for painted surfaces - white, ebony and gray are the most popular as they go with virtually all bathroom styles. White makes the space appear larger but if you prefer ebony, consider using a light color or even white countertop. Another new practice is to match the cabinetry in the bathroom with that of the rest of the house to create consistency. Cabinets transform bathrooms from ordinary to relaxing retreats. With good organization and efficient lighting, they save time and keep you safe. Most of...
by Cornerstone Cabinet Company | Dec 20, 2023 | Contractors, Homeowners, Interior Designers
Do you ever feel that your kitchen storage just isn’t quite suitable for your ever-changing needs? Well, with a few simple DIY steps, you can make the most of your kitchen cabinets by turning them into a fully functional pantry that can maximize the storage space you have, ensuring your whole kitchen runs more smoothly. A pantry is a luxury staple of any kitchen, making storing all food-related items convenient and organized. Many kitchens don’t come with a built-in pantry or simply lack the room for one. With these steps, you can convert an underutilized closet or kitchen cabinet into a pantry to create a more functional space. Click here to continue...
by Cornerstone Cabinet Company | Dec 14, 2023 | Contractors, Homeowners, Interior Designers
More than just expanding cabinet storage and countertop surfaces, kitchen islands have evolved into a gathering spot where family and guests hang around. Island design and comfort now draws cooks and visitors together to increase functionality, aesthetics and socialization. Along with food preparation and meals, kitchens are more open. Kids do homework and adults take care of paperwork. Additional activities like these promote family time as meals are prepared. For those whose children have moved away from home, this time goes to enjoying a glass of wine with guests before dinner gets to the table. And dinner is more likely to stay at the island with more comfortable seating. Still used for storage and counter space, islands also accommodate appliances like stoves with downward vents. And don’t forget about sinks where approximately 90% of the time is spent. The convenience of doing multiple tasks in one place shortens steps and work time. The ability to socialize more makes everything feel easier. Universal Design further expands function with varying countertop heights. This enables anyone at any height, especially children, to participate in food preparation and other activities without having to climb stools or reach overhead. Incorporating different materials from the rest of the kitchen adds even more appeal. One way is to use fabrics for surrounding stools and chairs. Fabrics contrast well with hard surfaces to soften the overall look. As a result, islands stand out as design objects and look more like furniture that seamlessly blends into the living room. The future will see more variation in island shapes and heights. Seating room will be expanded and rather than...
by Cornerstone Cabinet Company | Dec 13, 2023 | Homeowners
Sometimes a kitchen renovation means different floors, all stainless steel appliances, and swapping out pendants for recessed lighting. But if you want to make a strategic update, one of the most reliable and affordable renovations is the use of color. It can brighten or darken a room, make a space feel cozy, or make it feel spacious. As part of a house-wide renovation, Dave and Jenny Marrs, co-hosts of HGTV’s “Fixer to Fabulous,” found a gorgeous blue-gray color to take the kitchen cabinets from dated to eye-popping — yet the color is still subtle and not at all overbearing. Click here to continue...
