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Open Shelving vs. Closed Cabinets: 6 Insights to Consider

You might have your dream kitchen in mind when you start your kitchen renovation project. But you weren’t necessarily prepared for all the detailed decisions that come with it, especially when it comes to cabinetry. One of those decisions involves whether to choose open shelving for your new space or more traditional closed cabinets. There are advantages and unique design elements for each. Today, we’ll compare your options with helpful insights. Choose confidently when you see how both open shelving and closed cabinet layouts can elevate your kitchen.

1.    Aesthetic Appeal of Closed Cabinets and Open Shelving

One of the first considerations for shelving and cabinetry is about your personal style preferences. With open shelving, for example, you can invite an open and airy vibe to your kitchen, allowing you to showcase your dishware and décor. On the other hand, the closed-style cabinets introduce a more polished kitchen appearance, allowing you to keep all your wares neatly hidden behind closed cabinet doors.

2.    Organizational Features to Consider

Another insight for choosing open or closed styles involves your personal level of organization. With open shelving, your everyday items will all be on display, usually requiring a little more organization. Alternatively, with the closed-door cabinet, you can adopt a more relaxed approach to how you store your dishes and kitchenware.

3.    Cleaning, Maintenance, and Upkeep of Your New Cabinets

As vibrant and stunning as your new kitchen will be, it won’t clean itself. When choosing between open shelving layouts and closed cabinetry, think about the maintenance of everyday life. Open shelves will collect more dust and potential grease buildup, more so in busy kitchens. The closed cabinet door will keep those airborne particles off your dishes better and require less cleaning and maintenance.

4.    Storage Capabilities and Functionality

It’s your dream kitchen. Design it with every functional detail you need to make it work for you. This involves storage and ease of access for all your cookware essentials. Consider all your everyday dishware. But don’t forget about how you plan to store smaller appliances, pantry supplies, and backup kitchen utensils that will need to go somewhere in your newly renovated kitchen.

5.    Market Appeal and Resale Value

This particular insight to consider when choosing between open shelving and closed cabinets isn’t about your preferences. Instead, it might be worth thinking about what others might prefer in a kitchen. If you plan to sell your home, a remodeled kitchen will already add market appeal and resale value. Choosing a broader, appealing kitchen design, with prioritized storage and low-maintenance design, can contribute to both resale and marketability.

6.    The Size Factor

When you make design decisions about your new kitchen, the size and space itself will play into which options work best. And you might try to incorporate elements that make the area feel more spacious, like open shelving. In other kitchen layouts, creating open shelves might not work as well as closed cabinetry. Your renovation design team can help you find the solutions that complement your new kitchen look, within the confines of what your kitchen’s size and space allow.

 

Let Edgewood Cabinetry Help You with All Your Kitchen Remodeling Decisions

Of all the challenging decisions you’ll have to make about your kitchen renovation project, choosing who to work with should be fairly easy. Our team at Edgewood Cabinetry can help you bring your dream kitchen to life with every detail. We will help you weigh your design options, including the key considerations for aesthetics, functionality, storage, layout, and more. Contact us with your kitchen cabinetry and remodeling questions – we’ll make sure you have all the information you need to get started.

 

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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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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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Kitchen Cabinet Remodel Myths, Debunked

Are you dying to remodel your kitchen cabinets but worried about some of the things you’ve heard? Don’t give up yet. The truth is myths and misconceptions abound in home remodeling. That’s why it’s so important to separate fact from fiction before making remodeling decisions. Let’s talk about common kitchen cabinet remodel myths, debunked.

You Save Money by Doing Your Kitchen Cabinet Remodel Yourself

It’s true that the initial expense of doing a kitchen cabinet remodel yourself is less than paying a professional. However, you sacrifice quality. Plus, it’s possible to encounter problems you’re completely unprepared for. For example, do you know what to do if you find mold or rotted wood behind your old cabinets when you remove them? It’s a real possibility.

Any time you remodel your kitchen, there is a potential to find unexpected problems. And that means the entire project quickly goes wrong. So unless you are very skilled, leave your kitchen cabinet remodel to the pros. Otherwise, you may spend far more to fix your mistakes than it would have cost to pay a professional from the beginning.

It’s a Good Idea to Hire a Handyman Instead of a Contractor

Like attempting to do a remodel yourself, it’s often tempting to hire a handyman in order to save money. After all, a handyman charges less than a contractor. So it’s a good deal, right? Wrong. Handymen are typically skilled at a variety of simple projects. But they don’t have the same level of experience and skill as a contractor. It helps to compare them to doctors. Handymen are like the primary care physicians of the home improvement world, while contractors are the specialists.

When it comes to remodeling your kitchen, you definitely want a specialist. That’s because they’re prepared to handle any problems that arise. And they make sure all the work in your kitchen is up to code, too. Plus, home inspectors and insurance agents often want proof that anyone working on your home is licensed. So save yourself the hassle. Hire a contractor for your kitchen cabinet remodel.

A Kitchen Cabinet Remodel Isn’t Worth the Investment

Some people believe that a kitchen cabinet remodel isn’t worth the investment. That’s because trends change so quickly. And since you typically don’t get a 100% return on your investment, a kitchen cabinet remodel doesn’t always seem to be worth the cost. However, this is a myth. You just need to look at the big picture.

First, think of the benefits you receive from a kitchen cabinet remodel. Your entire kitchen looks better. You get more storage. Your cabinets are more functional. And if you choose high-quality cabinets, they last for many years to come. As it turns out, those are all qualities potential buyers look for, too. So your kitchen cabinet remodel also helps your home fetch a higher selling price when the time comes.

Custom Storage Options and Accessories Are a Waste of Money

When you’re trying to stick to a budget, custom storage options and accessories feel like frills. And that leads many homeowners to opt out of including them. But that’s a mistake. After all, the Research Institute for Cooking & Kitchen Intelligence surveyed homeowners and found that the thing they most regretted about their kitchen remodel was not adding more options for organization. Don’t make the same mistake.

Instead, think carefully about the options and accessories you want to include. Those that save you time or bring you a sense of peace are well worth the investment. For example, pull-outs that store trash out of sight help your kitchen feel more serene. Lazy Susans give you easy access to jars. And corner cabinet organizers provide a way to keep your plastic dishes and lids tidy. Remember, you never regret including options you love.

Need more help separating remodeling myths from facts? Check out our FAQ page to learn more or contact us to discuss the project you have in mind. We look forward to speaking with you soon!

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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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Everything You Need to Know About Shaker Cabinets

Are you thinking about updating your kitchen with new Shaker cabinets but aren’t sure if they’re the right style for you? Don’t worry, we can help! Here’s everything you need to know about Shaker cabinets.

Shaker Cabinet Design

Above all, the design of new cabinets is usually the first priority for homeowners. After all, you want your new cabinets to look good and fit in with your decor. Thankfully, Shaker cabinets are one of the most popular cabinet designs for a good reason. They work with almost any decor!

Shaker cabinets are so named because they were first designed by the religious group called the Shakers. Shakers believed in living a simple life. And they felt that too much decoration could lead to the sin of pride. So they developed the simple, utilitarian cabinets we know today as Shaker cabinets. And that design has endured for hundreds of years!

Honesty and integrity were also important to Shakers. And that applied both to their beliefs and their cabinets. The Shakers spurned modern elements, like veneer, deeming them dishonest. Instead, they focused on high-quality workmanship and durability. And that’s something Shaker cabinets are still known for today. Talk about a lasting design!

The most defining feature of Shaker cabinet design is the framed flat-panel doors. These classic frames consist of two horizontal pieces, called rails, and two vertical pieces called stiles. Ultimately, they create a simple, appealing design that fits well in almost any kitchen. Additionally, while traditional Shaker cabinets had wood knobs, today, you can choose any cabinet pulls you wish.

Shaker Cabinet Materials

Due to the Shaker values of simplicity and quality workmanship, Shaker cabinets were traditionally made from local American woods. Other cabinet makers of the time imported mahogany and rosewood. But the Shakers used pine, maple, and cherry, which were abundant near their homes.

Today, those same species of wood are still the most common materials used to make Shaker cabinets. They provide solid construction and beauty. So they are perfect if you prefer a traditional choice. However, it’s fine to use any species of wood you like in custom Shaker cabinets.

Shaker cabinets are also often painted or stained. If you prefer stained wood, choose the species that appeals most to you. Pine cabinets are lighter in color, while cherry and maple are darker. However, if you prefer to paint your cabinets, maple is a good choice. That’s because it’s smooth and easy to paint.

Benefits of Shaker Cabinets

The Shaker focus on quality, simple design, and utility creates a top-notch cabinet. So expect your Shaker cabinets to be strong, long-lasting, beautiful, and functional. And isn’t that what we all want from our new cabinets?

Today, we reap the benefits of the attractive yet hard-working Shaker design. But we also have the freedom to add as many modern touches as we wish. That way, it’s easy to make Shaker cabinets as useful as possible. And that’s important because your cabinets should work for you.

Edgewood Cabinetry offers a variety of cabinet accessories and options that work well with Shaker cabinets. For instance, hide a pull-outs for your trash behind your stylish Shaker cabinet doors. Or tidy the inside of your cabinets with Lazy Susans, spice racks, and drawer inserts.

Want a home bar tucked behind a simple Shaker cabinet facade? We can do that, too! Today, there’s no limit to the useful features available for Shaker cabinets. So if you love the Shaker cabinet design, we’ll make all the custom features you want work for you! After all, style plus function is a clear win when it comes to new cabinets. And we want you to win!

Would you like to learn more about Shaker cabinets? Or are you ready to design the kitchen of your dreams with new Shaker cabinets? Great! Give us a call at (919) 339-7300 or contact us here. We’re happy to answer all your questions and help you begin the design process.

 

 

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