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Pros & Cons of Painting Cabinets

The finish you choose for your cabinets drastically impacts your kitchen’s overall appearance. That’s why choosing whether or not to paint your cabinets is a bigger decision than many people realize. It’s important to think through all the aspects, from your visual preference to future maintenance. Let’s talk about the pros and cons of painting cabinets.

Pro: You Have More Color Choice When Painting Cabinets

In comparison to staining, you have more color choice when painting cabinets. In fact, it’s usually possible to match any color you wish, so the sky is the limit when it comes to painting custom cabinets. And even if you stick to a company’s normal list of colors, there’s typically plenty of variety for most homeowners. Whether you are purchasing new cabinets or refinishing older cabinets, Edgewood Cabinetry is happy to work with you to bring your vision to life in any color you choose.

Con: It’s Often Difficult to Touch Up Painted Cabinets

Although painting cabinets gives you more color variety than staining them, it’s important to consider the upkeep you need in the future. For instance, if your toddler learns to decorate with permanent marker, your dog scratches a cabinet door, or you accidentally chip the paint, it’s often difficult to DIY the repair. You may not remember the particular shade of paint you need. Plus, you may have to purchase a far larger quantity of paint than you need. Additionally, because cabinet makers often spray paint on for an even finish, you can’t easily achieve the same results at home.

Pro: Painting Gives a Clean, Smooth Finish

If you want your cabinets to look smooth and sleek, painting them is the way to go. Since paint sticks to the surface of the wood, rather than sinking into the woodgrain, it’s the best choice if you want a clean finish. So, if you want your eye to travel smoothly along your kitchen instead of up and down the woodgrain of your cabinets, painting them gives you the aesthetic you’re looking for. There are also a variety of finishes within paint itself, so whether you want glossy modern cabinets or a more muted European-style finish, there’s a paint to match.

Con: Certain Species of Wood Work Better When Painting Cabinets

Although painting cabinets allows a smooth finish, it only works with certain species of wood. For example, maple and birch are a dream to paint. They offer smooth, nonporous surfaces that hold paint well and don’t show the woodgrain. On the other hand, oak has a prominent grain that shows through paint. And while pine wood is smooth, it often contains visible knots. However, if you want to refinish and paint old cabinets, we have methods to improve the appearance of any wood species.

Pro or Con: Painting Cabinets Hides Unique Features

Painting your cabinets hides, or at least mutes, unique features of the wood. For example, imperfections, like knots and wormholes, and the woodgrain itself either aren’t visible or are more difficult to see. So, depending on your preference, that’s either a pro or a con of painting cabinets. If you prefer smooth, unblemished surfaces, it’s a definite pro. On the other hand, if you enjoy the charm of natural woodgrain, staining your cabinets is a better choice.

Let Edgewood Cabinetry Take the Hassle Out of Painting Cabinets

Painted cabinets are beautiful, but painting them yourself can be a headache. Instead, let Edgewood Cabinetry take the hassle out of painting your cabinets. Whether you are interested in purchasing custom cabinets or want to refinish your existing cabinets, we can help. We sit down with you to discuss your vision. Then, we work to make it a reality. And with decades of experience, we know how to get the results right. Contact us today to discuss your project.

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eco-friendly kitchen cabinets

8 Eco-Friendly Design Options to Consider as Part of Your Kitchen Designs

As we learn more about the impact of human behavior on the earth, more and more homeowners are searching for eco-friendly alternatives to mass-produced building materials. Thankfully, there are lots of ways you can be more eco-conscious when designing your kitchen. Try these eight eco-friendly design options to consider as part of your kitchen designs.

1. Reclaimed and Re-used Materials

It’s no secret that our country generates a lot of waste. So. Much. Waste. While we love to keep our kitchen styles up to date, remodeling isn’t always eco-friendly. Thankfully, you can update your style while reducing your environmental footprint by using reclaimed and re-used materials. This works especially well for rustic kitchens. For example, rather than buying all new hardware, fixtures, and accessories, repurpose used cabinet pulls, wire mesh, and faucets. As long as everything is in good shape, these repurposed elements will only add to your kitchen’s rustic charm.

2. Refinished Cabinets

Rather than buying all new cabinets, consider refinishing your cabinets if they are in good condition. At Edgewood Cabinetry, we offer painting, staining, and refinishing services to help you refresh your kitchen. It’s a simple way to be more eco-friendly without giving up your style.

3. Sustainable Materials

Choosing sustainable materials is an easy way to incorporate eco-friendly design options into your kitchen. For instance, terrazzo and quartz are great choices for countertops because they’re easily recycled. Sustainably harvested wood and glass are also great choices for your kitchen. So, don’t forget to ask about using sustainable wood for your kitchen cabinets.

4. Save Water

Most homeowners use a lot of water in their kitchens. Whether you’re washing dishes or rinsing veggies, using water is part of the job. Plus, who doesn’t love a giant pot of pasta? Thankfully, it’s easy to be more eco-friendly with your water use. Just choose appliances and taps that are made to save water. They’re just as effective without being wasteful. Win!

5. Look for Low VOCs

VOCs, or volatile organic compounds, create pollution that is harmful to both the environment and your health. Sadly, VOCs are often found in building materials, like composite wood and carpet. Instead, opt for materials like solid wood and granite. These have low or no VOCs. Additionally, choose paint or finishes that are low in VOCs. We can help you decide.

6. Eco-Friendly Flooring

The type of flooring you use in your kitchen has a big impact on how eco-friendly it is. For instance, synthetic materials, like vinyl, put a lot of pollution into the environment. Gross. Plus, they require a lot of intensive work that increases the carbon footprint of these materials. Thankfully, better options are available. Wood, bamboo, and cork are all excellent choices for floors. They look great, and they’re sustainable, too!

7. Look for Energy Efficiency

Energy-efficient lights and appliances make a big difference in your electric bill. They’re also eco-friendly options for your kitchen. So, if you’re building a new kitchen, choose energy-efficient lights. Your fridge and stove should be energy-efficient, too. You can also replace things slowly, as they wear out. Remember, even changing one light is still a step in the right direction.

8. Eco-Friendly Cabinets

Your cabinets make up a large part of your kitchen. So, it’s important to choose eco-friendly ones. Cheap particleboard is full of chemicals. And stock cabinets from box stores are often shipped all over the world. That makes them pretty bad for the environment. So, try working with a local cabinet maker, like Edgewood Cabinetry.

Natural wood cabinets are a good choice. They’re even better if you use local wood. That way, it doesn’t travel as far. And that means, it uses fewer resources. Don’t be afraid to ask whether the wood is harvested sustainably, too.

At Edgewood Cabinetry, we have many ways to make your kitchen more eco-friendly. For example, we’re happy to use reclaimed materials, as long as they’re in good shape. We can also help you refresh your existing cabinets. And we offer wood species that are native to our state, like oak and pine. If you’d like to learn more about eco-friendly cabinet options for your kitchen, contact us here. We’ll be in touch soon!

 

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Kitchen Lighting: How to Showcase Your Cabinets with Light

Your kitchen is the heart of your home. It’s where everyone gathers and where memories are made. So naturally, you want a beautiful, welcoming kitchen. Cabinets make up a big part of your kitchen’s overall look, so it’s important to accent them with the right lighting. Here’s how to showcase your cabinets with light.

Make Use of Natural Light

The first way to showcase your cabinets with light is simply to make use of natural light. If your kitchen has windows, a skylight, or a glass door, don’t cover them up! After all, the natural light they provide offers a beautiful way to showcase your cabinets. So, either leave windows uncovered or choose sheer window treatments that still allow plenty of light to come through.

If your kitchen doesn’t have any great sources of natural light and you plan to remodel, consider adding some strategically placed windows. Even small kitchens typically have places windows or skylights can be added, and it’s well worth the investment to add natural light to your kitchen.

Layer Your Lighting

It’s important to understand the three main types of lighting in your kitchen. Each has a role to play and layering them gives the best results. That’s why you should include ambient, task, and accent lighting to showcase your kitchen cabinets.

The first layer, ambient lighting, is soft, warm light that extends throughout your kitchen and typically comes from overhead fixtures. Next, add task lighting to illuminate workspaces, like countertops and kitchen islands. Finally, accent lighting is perfect for illuminating specific areas or objects you want to display. Accent lighting is perfect for showcasing China cabinets, highlighting design elements, or spotlighting countertop decor.

Pay Attention to Spacing

Exactly where you place your lighting matters more than you may think. For example, pendant lights are a beautiful way to showcase kitchen islands. And LED light strips are perfect for under-cabinet lighting. However, both types of lighting may result in a glare if they are spaced incorrectly. And that’s particularly true for glossy surfaces, such as marble or granite.

Fortunately, there’s an easy solution. Simply spacing lights correctly reduces glare and shows your cabinets in the best light. For instance, pendant lights should be centered above features like kitchen islands. However, they should not be closer than 2.5 feet from the surface of the island. Similarly, LED lights should be placed between one and three inches away from the front of the cabinet to avoid excessive glare on the countertop below.

Choose Warm Tones

Not all lighting is the same. Both your cabinets and your kitchen as a whole look better with warm lighting. Thankfully, it’s easy to choose the right lighting by looking at color temperatures.

A color temperature between 3500K and 4100K is perfect for ambient lighting. That’s because it’s bright enough to illuminate workspaces, like countertops, while still appearing warm. In contrast, it’s best to choose a color temperature between 2700K and 3000K for accent lighting. This range brings a warm, beautiful light to the inside of cabinets. It’s also perfect for lighting countertops below overhead cabinets.

Take Advantage of Custom Options

One of the biggest perks of installing custom kitchen cabinets is getting everything exactly the way you want it, including lighting. So if you want to add lighting to the interior of all your cabinets, you can do it. Can’t wait to highlight the ornate details on your European style cabinets? Consider it done!

The sky is the limit when it comes to designing and lighting your custom kitchen cabinets. So be sure to discuss your ideas with us during the design process. We’re happy to accommodate your wishes and to work with other professionals, such as electricians, to make your cabinet dreams come true.

Ready to get started on your dream kitchen? Contact us today for a free estimate or to begin the design process.

 

 

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5 Reasons to Hire a Cabinet Pro Instead of DIY

It’s often tempting to take on DIY projects. After all, why pay a professional if you can do the work yourself? When it comes to installing or refinishing cabinets, however, you may want to think twice about tackling the project on your own. Here are five reasons to hire a cabinet pro instead of DIY.

1. Cabinet Work May Be More Complex Than You Think

Installing or refinishing your cabinets probably sounds easy. However, cabinet work may be more complex than you think. For example, painting or staining your cabinets may sound simple, but if you don’t know how to work with natural woodgrain, you may not like the results.

Additionally, it’s incredibly easy to make mistakes when building or installing cabinets yourself. It’s often more difficult than it seems to get cabinets perfectly level. And if your measurements are even slightly off, your cabinets won’t fit the way they should. Plus, large projects may require moving plumbing or electrical wires. That’s why it’s best to hire a cabinet pro instead of DIY, especially for complex jobs.

2. DIY Cabinet Projects Aren’t Always Less Expensive

One of the main reasons people take on DIY cabinet projects is to save money. However, homeowners often fail to consider the full cost of DIY projects. For instance, do you have all the necessary tools to complete the work? If not, purchasing or renting tools adds a significant amount to your project’s price tag.

Similarly, just getting your cabinets or materials to your home is often expensive if you don’t own your own truck. Delivery and rental fees add up. Plus, there’s always the possibility that something goes wrong during your project that requires a professional to fix. As a result, it’s often better to hire a pro in the first place.

3. Your Project Could Be Dangerous

While a DIY cabinet project might not sound particularly hazardous, it could be more dangerous than you think. In fact, falls from ladders are one of the most common accidents that send people to the emergency room. And that’s particularly relevant if you’re installing cabinets near the ceiling.

But falls aren’t the only thing you need to worry about. Working on cabinets often involves working near electrical wires or even needing to move or install new electrical outlets. That’s always hazardous if you’re not a pro. Plus, even the dust and fumes generated when working on cabinets may be dangerous if you don’t have the proper protective equipment.

4. Time Is Valuable

Have you ever gotten into a home repair and then realized it was going to be way more work than you first anticipated? That’s a common problem for DIY projects, including cabinets. So one question you need to ask yourself is, how valuable is your time?

If you can’t afford to take off work to finish your project or live without the use of your kitchen until your cabinets are complete, hiring a pro is a better option. Your time is valuable, and sometimes, it just makes more sense to have a pro do the work.

5. You Want Professional Results

If you’ve never worked on cabinets before, they may seem like one of the easiest DIY projects to try. Unfortunately, that’s not the case. There’s a lot to learn about different wood species, stains, paints, finishes, etc. And if you don’t have that knowledge, you may be disappointed in the results.

As you know, cabinets play a huge role in the overall appearance of your kitchen. Beautiful cabinets give your entire kitchen a facelift, but messy paint jobs, crooked doors, and imperfections have the opposite effect. In reality, it’s all too easy to make mistakes with your cabinets. So if you want professional results, it’s best to hire a pro to do the work.

Edgewood Cabinetry offers a variety of cabinets and cabinet services to suit your needs. If you are ready to begin your next project or would like more information about the services we provide, contact us for a free quote. We look forward to hearing from you soon!

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Timeless Kitchens: 4 Cabinet Designs That Never Go Out of Style

Some homeowners love updating their kitchens every few years to embrace the latest trends, while others prefer more timeless designs. If you belong to the latter group, this post is for you!

Do you adore the rustic charm of natural hardwood cabinets? Perhaps you love the stately elegance of mahogany. Or maybe you dream of a provincial country kitchen. Whatever your style, we have cabinets to fit the bill!

Ready to learn more? Here are four cabinet designs that never go out of style.

1. Shaker Cabinets

There’s a reason Shaker cabinets have been popular for hundreds of years. Their simple yet beautiful style fits with any decor!

Shaker cabinets are so named because they were developed by the Shakers in the 1700s. However, they achieve timeless appeal through their clean, minimalist lines and sturdy construction. In fact, Shaker cabinets are well known for their simple design of two rails, two stiles, and flat doors with recessed panels.

Shaker cabinets are traditionally made from hardwoods like maple, oak, hickory, and cherry. That’s because these are the types of woods that were easily available to the Shakers. But these species are also beautiful and durable.

Shaker cabinets look great with either a natural wood stain or paint. As such, you have plenty of options to give your kitchen a facelift without needing new cabinets. It just takes a new coat of paint. Perfection!

Learn more about our painting, staining, and refinishing services.

2. Kitchen Islands

Kitchen islands are both stylish and functional. Like Shaker cabinets, kitchen islands have been in demand for centuries. In fact, they first functioned as a useful workspace in front of the hearth.

Today, however, kitchen islands fill many purposes. For example, kitchen islands provide extra workspace. They also offer additional storage. And they sometimes incorporate sinks, cooktops, or home bars.

Additionally, many families use kitchen islands as a breakfast nook. They’re also perfect places to do homework. Or create your own home coffee bar. So versatile!

Kitchen islands remain part of a timeless kitchen because they look great and work well. Plus, they fit into any design. And with so many options available today, it’s easy to find a kitchen island that fits your needs and your decor.

Learn more about kitchen island accessories and options.

3. Natural Wood

Natural wood is both gorgeous and durable. And hardwoods, like mahogany, oak, and maple, are especially long-lasting. As a result, natural woods continue to appeal to homeowners who want a timeless kitchen.

However, it’s important to protect natural wood. Stains and glazes bring out the innate beauty of natural wood and give your kitchen a timeless charm. Some homeowners opt for a smooth, stained finish. Meanwhile, others prefer to highlight knots, wormholes, and other unique characteristics. Just imagine the warmth!

Natural wood cabinets are great choices if you like traditional European designs or country/rustic cabinets. They are perfect for creating elaborate designs in traditional cabinets. And natural woodgrain features prominently in country/rustic kitchen designs, too.

Choosing the right wood species helps your design. Cherry and walnut are elegant choices. And pine and oak work well for country/rustic decor. Don’t forget the perfect hardware!

4. Classic Countertops

Countertops are an expensive investment. You want them to stand the test of time. Fortunately, several tried-and-true materials never go out of style.

Marble is a classic choice but is easily damaged. Because of this, many homeowners opt for quartzite instead. Quartzite looks like marble but is more durable, so it holds up better in the kitchen. Win!

Granite countertops look amazing. Plus, they are durable and heat resistant. That’s so important for a kitchen!

Finally, butcher block has a timeless appeal. After all, it’s hard to match butcher block for bringing warmth to your kitchen. However, butcher block requires regular upkeep. Reseal your butcher block monthly to keep it in top shape.

Learn about installation.

Design Your Timeless Kitchen

Would you like to design your own timeless kitchen? We’d love to help! Edgewood Cabinetry has over 30 years’ experience creating cabinets that never go out of style.

Contact us here to begin your next project. We look forward to hearing from you!

 

 

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Handles & Hardware: How to Choose the Right Look

Hardware and handles are the fashion accessories of the cabinet world. They complete your cabinet’s final look and have the potential to dramatically change your cabinet’s appearance. But how do you know which handles and hardware will work best for your cabinets? Here’s how to choose the right look.

Consider the Overall Design

The first step in choosing the right handles and hardware for your cabinets is to consider the overall design of your kitchen. For example, what color will your cabinets be? Are you opting for a modern style or something more rustic? After all, you need very different cabinet pulls for a sleek, modern style than for a rustic farmhouse look.

Do you want a warm, cozy feel, a sophisticated European look, or something a bit wilder and avant-garde? Think about whether the handles and hardware you are considering will match. Understanding how your cabinet hardware and handles fit into the overall look of your kitchen is essential to choosing the right pieces.

Choose Sturdy Handles and Hardware

As you think about your selection, remember that no matter how beautiful handles and hardware are, they won’t hold up to heavy use if they aren’t made well. After all, cabinet doors and drawers are frequently opened and closed, so you need sturdy handles and hardware that won’t loosen or break over time. Durable metals are an excellent choice for this purpose.

Unsure whether the handles and hardware you have in mind are durable enough to hold up in your kitchen? No problem. We can help you choose quality handles and hardware that stand the test of time. Just talk to us about the type of hardware you would like and the overall look you’re hoping to achieve. Then, we’ll help you find cabinet handles and hardware that fit the bill.

Be Mindful of Fingerprints

Shiny, sleek hardware looks great on modern cabinets. However, it’s important to remember that fingerprints show up easily on such surfaces, just like they do on stainless steel appliances. So be mindful of the fact that you need to clean shiny metal hardware frequently in order to combat the fingerprints that are left on them.

If fingerprints on cabinet pulls are bothersome to you, or if you don’t want the hassle of cleaning them frequently, opt for a more muted or textured appearance. Brushed finishes are excellent for resisting fingerprints.

Match Colors

The color of your cabinets is an important consideration when choosing handles and hardware to get the right look for your kitchen. Whether you opt for natural, stained, or painted cabinets, your handles and hardware should complement and enhance your cabinets’ appearance.

For instance, white cabinets look good with black hardware. Gold handles look lovely paired with dark blue cabinets. And silver hardware is beautiful on black or red cabinets. When it comes to natural wood colors, wrought iron or bronze handles and hardware are sure to bring out your cabinets’ natural warmth and charm.

Select Handles and Hardware that Fit Your Style

You want your cabinet handles and hardware to last for a long time, so it’s important to choose a style you love. For instance, do you prefer an understated, simple appearance? Would you like your handles and hardware to be elegant and ornate? Or is fun and funky more your style? Fortunately, when it comes to handles and hardware, there’s no shortage of styles to choose from. So you’re sure to find something you adore.

Traditional knob and pull combinations are always in style and look great with most cabinets. Tubular metal pulls are perfect for modern styles. And cup pulls are a versatile choice that fits with many designs, as long as you choose an appropriate finish. Plus, there’s a whole world of novelty pulls if you want to add an element of your own personality to the design.

At Edgewood Cabinetry, we work through every element of the design process with you to ensure you love the final result. From helping you pick your favorite wood species to selecting handles and hardware, we’ll make your dream cabinets a reality. Contact us today to get started.

 

 

 

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6 Ways to Maximize Storage Space in Your Kitchen

If there’s one thing that nearly all homeowners can agree on, it’s that there’s never enough storage space in your kitchen. After all, today’s kitchens often need much more space for all the electronic gadgets and appliances that weren’t available in generations before. (Hello, electronic rice makers and stand mixers!) But designers and contractors don’t seem to have gotten that memo. As a result, many homeowners face constant frustration with the lack of space in their kitchens.

Fortunately, there are things you can do to get the additional storage space you need. Start by trying these six ways to maximize storage space in your kitchen.

1. Remove Unnecessary Items

The first way to maximize storage space in your kitchen is by removing unnecessary items. That’s because kitchens often become a catch-all for whatever we need to set down. From school papers to mail and files, it all seems to end up in the kitchen. So if your kitchen is feeling cluttered, go through and remove anything that doesn’t truly belong there. That way, you have more space for the things that do.

2. Find Another Place for Seasonal Items

If you have holiday-themed cookie cutters, platters, cookbooks, or other seasonal items, it doesn’t make sense to store them in your kitchen all year long. Instead, keep your valuable kitchen storage space for regularly used items. Anything seasonal is better off stored with your holiday decorations and only brought into your kitchen for the time period you are actually using it.

3. Utilize Your Wall Space

Often, kitchens have large areas of empty wall space. And that translates to a wasted opportunity. Just imagine if all that empty wall space could be turned into storage space instead. Fortunately, it can! And one of the best ways to do that is by installing custom kitchen cabinets. That’s because custom kitchen cabinets are built to fit your room, so you get usable storage space from floor to ceiling. And there’s no better way to maximize storage space in your kitchen.

4. Add Organizers

Add organizers to your kitchen to instantly create more storage space. Drawer inserts, lazy Susans, spice racks, and wine racks all help you store more items without making a jumbled mess in your cabinets or on your counters. Choose knife racks, lid organizers, and racks for pots and pans to store awkward items. And don’t forget about corner and base cabinet organizers! They’re perfect for corralling the inevitable mess of plastic containers and lids that too frequently take over cabinets. And they’re great for storing large appliances, too!

5. Get a Kitchen Island

A custom kitchen island is one of the best purchases you can make for your kitchen. After all, a new kitchen island instantly gives you more counterspace and storage space. Plus, today’s kitchen islands often include cooktops or home bars, so it’s easy to make them into exactly what you need for your kitchen. And because they’re customizable, all the storage and organization options available for cabinets are also available for kitchen islands. Wine racks? Spice racks? Drawer inserts for all your utensils? Done, done, and done.

6. Use Pull-Outs and Pull-Downs

Are you tired of seeing unsightly trash cans and recycling bins in your kitchen? Or is it hard to move around in your limited space because of them? Then, use pull-outs and pull-downs to discretely store your garbage and recycling out of sight. Pull-outs are also excellent for making better use of large or awkwardly shaped cabinets. That’s because they allow you to pull items forward instead of reaching (or climbing!) into the back of your cabinet and fishing around for what you need.

Your kitchen is the heart of your home, so it should feel warm, welcoming, and inviting. But it’s hard to feel a sense of peace when there’s clutter all over your countertops and table. Fortunately, gaining storage space in your kitchen is easier than you might think. Just try the above six ways to maximize storage space in your kitchen. And when you’re ready for some professional help, let us know! We’d love to help you design your dream kitchen and maximize your storage space!

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7 Trending Cabinet Designs to Consider in 2024

Is your kitchen due for an update? Refreshing your kitchen cabinets is the perfect way to give your kitchen a facelift. And with so many exciting design trends appearing in 2024, there are plenty of options to create your dream kitchen. So without further ado, here are seven trending cabinet designs to consider in 2024.

1. Open Shelving

If you love to display your cookware or favorite dishes, open shelving is trending design that could work for you. After all, open shelves give you plenty of space to display your favorite items. However, you should remember that open shelving sometimes limits your storage space. And it’s essential that you keep your shelves tidy at all times, since they’re on display. That’s why many people make the best of both worlds by adding open shelving on the sides of end cabinets. With this approach, you still keep the storage space of traditional cabinets. But you also have some open shelving to display your favorite kitchen items or decor.

2. Warm Colors

Are you tired of all the black, white, and gray cabinets that have dominated kitchen trends over the past few years? Then, we have some great news for you! Warm colors are making a comeback in 2024. So go ahead and opt for cheery yellow, serene teal, or rich red kitchen cabinets. Just imagine, you’ll be on trend and create a more inviting kitchen, too. Did someone say dinner party?

3. Focal Kitchen Islands

Kitchen islands are always a useful addition to your kitchen. After all, they create more storage space and workspace. Plus, many kitchen islands now integrate cooktops, sinks, or home bars, too. That’s why making your kitchen island into a focal piece is one of the biggest trends of 2024. Best of all, designing your own kitchen island allows you to make it as elaborate, ornate, or functional as you like. So what are you waiting for?

4. Natural Wood

If you love the look of natural wood, now is the time to let your kitchen cabinets shine in all their natural beauty! That’s because natural wood cabinets are trending this year. In fact, many homeowners are replacing their white kitchen cabinets with white oak. The end result is gorgeous, light cabinets that let the natural woodgrain shine through. But don’t worry if you prefer darker hues. They’re trending, too! Walnut is especially popular this year.

5. Earth Tones

Along with natural wood, earth tones are trending in 2024. Soft earthy hues and desert-inspired colors are particularly popular. So it’s the perfect time to try out those terracotta or sage green cabinets you’ve been dreaming of. Additionally, try combining earth tones with natural wood elements, or add a few houseplants to enhance the nature-based theme for your kitchen. Alternatively, incorporate stone accents to create a calming atmosphere.

6. Hidden Storage

Clean lines with everything tucked away provide a seamless, sleek look. And that’s just what the latest cabinet trends feature. So choose cabinets that integrate hidden storage and built-in appliances. For example, include pull-outs or pull-downs for garbage and recycling. Opt for built-in storage racks and drawer-inserts. Or revamp your entire kitchen with custom cabinets that conceal or integrate your appliances.

7. Built-In Bars and Beverage Centers

Have you ever dreamed of having a wet bar in your kitchen? How about your own designated coffee center? Or maybe a tea station is more your style. Whatever your preferred beverage is, having a bar or beverage center in your kitchen is a perk you’re sure to enjoy. That’s why built-in bars and beverage centers are really having a moment in 2024. So when you’re picking out your new kitchen cabinets, consider including a home bar or beverage center. Whether you choose a simple refrigerated cabinet or transform your kitchen island into a bar, you’ll love the convenience of being able to quickly grab or prepare your favorite beverage in the comfort of your own kitchen.

Are you ready to incorporate some of these seven trending kitchen cabinet designs into your home? Great! We’d love to help make your dream kitchen a reality. Give us a call at (919) 339-7300 or contact us here to get started.

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Explore These 10 Creative Ways to Brighten Your Kitchen

Your kitchen is one of the most-used rooms in your home. So it should be a welcoming place you enjoy spending time in. But too often, kitchens are dull, dim, and drab. Fortunately, it’s easy to bring in a little light. Explore these 10 creative ways to brighten your kitchen.

1. Include a Mirror

One of the easiest ways to brighten your kitchen is to include a mirror. Mirrors reflect light, so strategically placing one near a window instantly brightens your kitchen. Plus, it gives the illusion of a larger space, too. Just remember to choose a stylish mirror that goes well with your kitchen’s decor.

2. Use Natural Lighting

The more natural light you can let into your kitchen, the better. So take advantage of all the windows and skylights you have. If possible, leave windows bare to enjoy maximum light exposure. But if you aren’t comfortable with bare windows, open your curtains or blinds as often as possible to let the light in.

3. Install Pendant Lights

If your kitchen seems too dim, there’s an easy fix. Install pendant lights. These low-hanging lights are the perfect way to brighten your kitchen. Since they are physically closer to you than recessed or overhead lighting, they give your kitchen the appearance of being brighter.

4. Change Your Lightbulbs

One simple way to brighten your kitchen is to change your lightbulbs. It’s important to be sure you use the right bulbs for your fixtures. That’s because exceeding the allowable wattage is dangerous. However, changing your lightbulbs to the maximum wattage your fixtures accommodate quickly brightens your kitchen.

5. Light the Space Under Your Cabinets

All too often, homeowners overlook the space under their cabinets. But lighting up that space instantly brightens your kitchen. And that’s especially true if your countertops and appliances are reflective. So purchase some under-cabinet lights. Or opt for custom kitchen cabinets with built-in lighting. You’ll love the difference it makes!

6. Get a New Backsplash

Your backsplash has a bigger effect on your kitchen’s appearance than you may think. A dark backsplash adds to the dim effect in your kitchen, while a light or colorful backsplash brightens it. Alternatively, choose a metallic backsplash that reflects light to brighten your kitchen even more. Silver is an excellent choice.

7. Add Some Color

A few pops of color can work wonders to brighten your kitchen. And best of all, you can be as creative as you like! Set out a few colorful canisters, choose bright light fixtures, or place lovely flowers in a brightly colored vase. Even a fruit bowl filled with a variety of fruits can add much-needed color to your kitchen.

8. Give a Nod to Nature

Adding natural elements to your kitchen is a simple, yet beautiful way to brighten the room. Place a few potted plants in the corners, add light wooden or wicker accents, and make use of glass vases that reflect the light. Other natural elements like stones, seashells, and water features also brighten your kitchen if they fit in with your decor.

9. Bring in a Bright Kitchen Island

Sometimes, all your kitchen needs to brighten it is a bold statement piece. And what better way is there to brighten your kitchen than by adding a bold new custom kitchen island? When you opt for a custom kitchen island, you get to choose the exact color you want. And with tons of available add-ons and accessories, you get the bonus of having additional storage and workspace in your kitchen. In fact, your new kitchen island might just become your favorite part of the kitchen!

10. Go Lighter

As beautiful as dark cabinets are, they don’t always work when you want a super bright, airy kitchen. So consider swapping out your old cabinets for lighter ones. Choose painted cabinets in light colors, like white or pastels. Or opt for light-colored woods like pine, maple, or ash instead.

Would you like to brighten your kitchen with custom kitchen cabinets or a custom kitchen island? We can help! Contact us today to share your ideas. Let’s make your bright dream kitchen a reality!

 

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