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corbel bar brackets-edgewood custom cabinetry-raleigh nc

The What, When, Where and Why of Corbels and Brackets

Corbels and brackets are, basically, decorative architectural pieces that support or enhance another object.

While we are usually all about the importance of adding items that totally renovate a room, or add functionality to a space, in this case we call attention to the importance of small details. Just as jewelry adds pizazz to a basic outfit, embellishing the existing structural elements of your home with budget friendly adornments, like  corbels, adds character. What you get is a huge impact for a minimal investment.

Make a statement and express your personal style by strategically incorporating decorative corbels and brackets into your overall room design. Framing a window, beneath a range hood, supporting an open shelf or flanking a doorway, these design elements are suitable for every decorating style.

Today’s kitchens are prime real estate for utilizing corbels.

  • Supporting the overhang on islands and peninsulas. (position chairs or stools under the countertop before deciding on the placement of the brackets)
  • On either side of a wall of cabinetry
  • Under a built in desk top
  • Placed as bookends on an open shelf

When placed under a cabinet or counter, corbels give the illusion of support, adding to the visual impact of the structure. Let your imagination run rampant and visualize a mantel, library table or entryway surrounded by iconic, classic sophistication.

Available in a variety of sizes and materials, decorative and supportive brackets give homeowners quite a bang for their buck.

The dimensions of your space, and the application itself determines the correct size corbel. Contact us for help in choosing the perfect accent pieces.

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edgewood custom cabinetry-white shaker kitchen with gray island-Smithfield nc

Lunch or No Lunch

When you purchase a cabinet, you are buying a piece of furniture for your kitchen.

If you want to get your furniture at a discount store, yes, you actually may save a little money.

IKEA mass-produces kitchen cabinet sets. The only customization is your choice of size, color and some features.

The items that you order, if they are in stock, are shipped to you for assembly and installation. Not sure what to order? IKEA offers an a-la-carte menu of services that includes design assistance, measurements, assembly, and installation. At the end of a long day, (be prepared to spend lots of time navigating the layout of the store and dealing with a lengthy ordering process) IKEA will save you money by using inexpensive materials on units that come to you in pieces. The good news is, when all is said and done, they do look nice. As an added bonus, you can have lunch at the on-site restaurant, or purchase some lingonberry jam while you are there. 

A custom kitchen will cost more. Your cabinets are hand-crafted, designed with the unique layout and limitations of your space, and fashioned from quality materials (no MDF). Expect an exceptional finished product and a level of customer service that you will not find in a discount store.

At Edgewood Cabinetry, we do on-site visits, re-designs if needed, and we are always available to speak to you on the phone (good luck with that at a big-box retail location).

If deep pot drawers, slide out spice racks, appliance garages and sponge drawers are on your wish list than custom cabinets is the way to go.

The difference between IKEA vs. custom cabinets may actually be less than you think. If you have a small kitchen or an unusual layout, you will pay extra for filler materials at IKEA to facilitate a finished look. In the end, you end up with some wasted space and additional labor costs. Due diligence is not just for lawyers. When you calculate the cost of materials, delivery, assembly, and installation you may actually only be a few thousand dollars away from a high-end look that will add equity and resale value to your home.

If you want lunch, visit IKEA. If you want a well-appointed, impeccably dressed kitchen, come see us.

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maple transitional kitchen-edgewood custom cabinetry

The whole story (or, the word according to me)

We asked three different people what the word transitional meant, in terms of room design and style.

Like so many things in life, it is all about the interpretation.

It is no surprise that we got three different answers.

So, we asked our own resident design expert, Pete. Surprise, he also gave us three answers.

Transitional design elements allow homeowners to enjoy the spaciousness of an open floor plan while maintaining order and definition.  The creative use of architectural details such as flooring, moldings, and columns give each area a cohesive look and a defined purpose.

A transitional piece of furniture, (or cabinetry), is simply a contemporary version of a classic piece. This console table,  for example, morphs a traditional living room basic into a modern marvel by substituting steel and glass for mahogany.

A transitional room design is a mélange of furnishings, fixtures, and fabrics combining the sustainability of classic traditional with a bit of modern sleek and wow!  This concept works in any room and is quite a show stopper in a kitchen.

To be effective, keep the color palettes neutral and the fabrics uncomplicated. This design style is more controlled than eclectic and a bit more upscale than shabby chic. Less is always better when it comes to the unexpected elements; a touch of restraint will result in a better balanced room.

A transitional kitchen design allows a great deal of flexibility to homeowners who do not want to commit to a single look. This kitchen design example combines an antique cabinet, rattan, classic white cabinets and ultra modern lighting for an exceptional look.

Create your own space. Lay the foundation with high quality, traditional cabinetry, then be innovative with color accents (“Eggplant” is trending right now)and mixed metals. Use granite or stone to inject some natural elements. Think chalkboard paint, turned legs, and corbels. Imagine copper farm sinks and sliding barn doors. After all, transitional is anything you want it to be. Be you.

Find your style, then come see Pete. He absolutely knows how to make it happen for you.

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Get That Microwave Off The Counter

Your counters are prime kitchen real estate, especially in a modest sized kitchen.

Integrating this appliance into your cabinetry lets you reclaim workspace(and quite frankly, is visually more appealing.)

The holidays are fast approaching and you know you’ll need counter space to cool all those cookies.It is nice to have choices in life, and there are plenty to choose from when it comes to finding optimal solutions for installing your microwave.

  • Under an island. This option makes it easy for children (with supervision of course) to use. Simply sit the unit on the bottom shelf of your work island or peninsula
  • A microwave drawer. Such a clever design idea. A microwave that is installed under a counter top and pulls out like a drawer, innovative and space saving. A good option for smaller kitchens.
  • An over the stove microwave seems to be builder’s choice for location. While it does maximize space, it makes cleaning difficult and can be somewhat problematic for the vertically challenged. In addition, this location simply does not work well if two people are trying to cook at once.
  • Recessed in the wall. If you have a wall that backs up to the garage or even a closet you can set the microwave into the wall. Without any protrusion, it is a high-end look for a relatively modest cost.
  • In a cupboard. Out of sight and within easy reach. Contact us to see if a specialty vented cabinet will fit into your current kitchen design.
  • On a shelf–  If you have a small corner or an expanse of bare wall, mounting the microwave on a  sturdy shelf can be both efficient and attractive.

Microwave ovens will always be an integral part of kitchen design, so free up that valuable counter space and find a location that works for your family.

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custom cabinetry-cabinet demolition-edgewood cabinetry

Don’t “demo”. deconstruct. You’ll be glad you did

Congratulations! That new dream kitchen is finally about to happen.

Before the contractor schedules “demo” day, consider the alternatives to swinging a sledgehammer and filling a dumpster with shattered and splintered cabinetry.

With just a modicum of talent, a little bit of paint, and some new hardware (and maybe a brief session on Pinterest), you’ll figure out how to recycle those kitchen cabinets.

Deconstruct- take the cabinets down piece by piece and salvage the easily reusable materials.

Would your garage benefit from some additional storage solutions? Mount the cabinets to the wall for an organized way to house outdoor toys, pet paraphernalia, or garden supplies. This is an easy redo, no need to refinish or paint, after all, it is a garage.

With a few coats of paint and a little imagination, old kitchen cabinets can morph into  a small bench or a toy chest. DIY projects with these pieces are really inexpensive, and usually , a be completed in a day or so. Stylistically, shabby chic, farmhouse and country cottage décor readily welcome upcycled creations.

Cabinet doors readily transform into wall art, and drawers become a pair of end tables with a few coats of paint. Screw some casters on the bottom of painted drawers and you have roll-out under bed storage solutions.

If weekend projects are not in your wheelhouse, consider donating used kitchen cabinets.

Charitable organizations like Habitat for Humanity  serve your neighbors in need, and will often offer to do the deconstruction for you.

Cabinetry is what we do best. Contact us for help with your remodeling projects.

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toe kick drawers-toe kick storage-edgewood cabinetry-clayton nc

Toe Kick Drawers – A Personal Choice

How much time do you spend searching for kitchen gadgets?

You know what we are talking about; The apple slicer, corn cob holders, the cute placemats with the holiday décor? All those small things that never seem to have a permanent place to live, and  are never where you thought they were.

Stop wasting time, and consider using some wasted space to maximize the functionality of the kitchen.

The toe kick is the recessed space at the bottom of the cabinet – an ergonomic necessity that gives you  space to put your feet, allowing you to get as close as possible to the counter. Adding a recessed drawer is a quick fix to storage and organizational challenges.

Are toe kick drawers worth it for you financially? You tell us.

If you are planning a full kitchen remodel, complete with new cabinetry, then the cost to add the toe kick drawer is very minimal. If however, you want to retrofit existing units, the cost is modest. Our design experts are always available to help you decide, contact us for an estimate.

Is there a downside to drawers located at the very bottom of a cabinet?

Sure. It is always going to be the dustiest place in the kitchen. There is no way around it. But dust settles everywhere and life is messy. Just clean it up.

Bottom drawers are often problematic for folks with mobility issues. While they can be “toe activated” (in lieu of a knob or handle) to open, they  remain an issue in accessing items stored within.

While a toe kick is a must have, a “toe kick cabinet” is a personal choice. Stop by and talk to our experts if you are having trouble deciding.

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outdoor kitchen cabinets-edgewood cabinetry

Bring The Indoors Out !

We hear you singing, “Get out of my dreams and into my yard”.

You don’t have to be Chip and Joanna Gaines  to  design a beautiful outdoor kitchen. Contact us, and let our space planners and design experts show you how to vamp up the whole dining experience.

Use as much outdoor space as you are willing to sacrifice.

Remember, you are increasing your living and entertaining areas as well- if you build it they will come, so allow plenty of room. Your only limitations are space constraints and budget.

Why not cook al fresco?

Sure, you can have beautiful wood cabinetry in an outdoor setting. There are protective finishes that will keep your cabinets and islands looking new for many years. Here at Edgewood, we  have options in wood choices and finishes that will work with your lifestyle and your budget.

The cost of an outdoor kitchen is directly proportional to the overall size, finishing materials and appliance selections.  If you are using an existing patio, and want to add a grill and some cabinets and counter space, the cost, relatively speaking, will be modest. Compare this basic design to “all the bells and whistles”. When you add in a refrigerator, stainless steel sink, ice maker, cook top, warming drawers; well you do the math.

A project of this size come with costs you may not have considered. Adding a sink requires a hot water connection and a drain to the sewer or septic system. A refrigerator means adding electrical lines, and a grill might mandate adding a gas line. If this outdoor space is for a new construction, asking the contractor to provide utility stub outs can mean substantial savings.

If the kitchen of your dreams is a no holds barred, high-end, luxury showpiece, then go over the top and add in a pizza oven and a flat screen outdoor TV. Why not.

Give us a call, we are here to help and we aim to please.

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custom cabinets clayton nc-edgewood cabinetry

Four Things to Consider Before You Shop For New Cabinets

Ready to ditch that builder’s grade kitchen from 30 years ago?

Honey oak cabinets have seen their day and we are happy to shut the door on that era with you.

If you are ready to bid adieu to your old kitchen, Edgewood Cabinetry is ready to help you bring your design dreams to life.

Here are a few things you should consider before you shop for new cabinets. 

1. Size and layout of your current space. Not everyone has a large open space that can accommodate their dream kitchen. Consider whether you will need to make extra space by knocking down a wall or adding on to your house. If your area is adequate, do you like the current layout? Maybe your sink and stove are in the wrong places. A good contractor can assess a room and make recommendations for how to take advantage of your space.

2. The amount and location of natural and artificial light. We can’t all have giant windows flooding the kitchen with gorgeous natural light. Sometimes the windows are too far away or facing the wrong direction to take advantage of that. If you are short on light, consider using a lighter shade for your cabinetry. White is a classic choice, especially with southern architecture, but if that doesn’t sound appealing, a soft gray is a great alternative. If you love the look of stained wood, we have many wood grains and stains from which to choose. Even when a kitchen has plenty of natural light, you will still need to plan for task lighting for those times when you are doing up-close work. Be sure to ask about all of the under-cabinet lighting options when you visit a showroom.

3. Storage needs. Do you have a pantry closet? If so, your storage needs are primarily for dishes. If not, adding a pantry cabinet and dry goods storage is an excellent way to maximize your cabinet space. Either way, Edgewood Cabinets boasts a variety of built-in organization tools that can keep anyone’s clutter under control.

4. Personal style. Be sure to browse some pictures online to try to narrow down what really appeals to you. Do you love fancy millwork? Traditional may be your style. Are you a big fan of clean lines and a simple design? Contemporary may be a hit for you. We can make cabinetry to suit any style.

Before you shop for new cabinets, consider this:

Everyone’s kitchen need is different, so why go to the expense of replacing cabinets if you may not get precisely what you need from a set purchased at a big-box store? The great thing about custom cabinetry is that no matter the size, layout, lighting, storage needs, or personal style, Edgewood Cabinetry can make a kitchen work for you.

Please, contact us or visit our showroom to begin planning your dream kitchen.

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work stations-edgewood cabinetry-Clayton nc

The Butcher, The Baker, and The Barista

The heart of the home – the kitchen!

Every family member, friend, and relative ends up in this one space at some time or another. While you may not be able to increase the size of the room, you most certainly can make sure it is more user-friendly.

Contrary to the age-old adage, you most definitely should put all your things in one basket (or drawer, or cabinet). Designating work zones for specific tasks has a two-fold purpose. First and foremost, having all the tools needed for a job at your fingertips is a huge timesaver. By creating workstations, or centers, various activities can all take place simultaneously.

The food prep station, ideally located adjacent to a sink, is the place to store pots, pans, butcher knives and chopping blocks. The chef de jour can de-bone the chicken, prep the veggies and layer the casserole without having to crisscross the kitchen.

Meanwhile, imagine having all of your baking needs exactly where you need them, within an arms reach. A small cabinet is more than sufficient to hold an assortment of flour, sugar and spices. Replace  the countertop with a  small marble slab and along with your stand mixer, you’ll have everything you need to knead( pun intended).

Coffee is as American as mom and apple pie. Brewing the perfect cup has been elevated to an art form. Make room for a coffee bar complete with everything you need for a caffeine fix. 

Will work zones replace the triangle? No. Yesterday’s kitchens were triangularly efficient,mathematically correct and perfectly symmetrical. The concept is sound, and still appropriate. However,with today’s open concept rooms, we have a multi-functional space that requires room for family interaction and added efficiency. When you are ready to organize and  keep in the zone contact us. We have design ideas that will work for any kitchen layout.

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