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Photo by Alley Chien: https://www.pexels.com/photo/modern-kitchen-interior-with-open-drawers-35747333/
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Hidden Storage Solutions That Redefine a Modern Kitchen

In today’s modern kitchen designs, hidden storage solutions and fun nooks and crannies for saving space aren’t just luxury upgrades. Kitchen remodels are now being built with these unique and smart designs as a necessity. Homeowners want sleek lines, uncluttered countertops, and intuitive organization that feels functional. The trick lies in maximizing every inch of space without disrupting the aesthetic flow of the room. From smart kitchen cabinetry to clever pull-outs, hidden storage transforms kitchens into both beautiful and highly usable spaces. 

Why Hidden Storage Matters in Modern Kitchens

When your kitchen has smart hidden storage, everything just feels easier. The everyday clutter that usually piles up, mail, small appliances, charging cords, random utensils, suddenly has a place to disappear. Your countertops stay clear, your space feels calmer, and cooking or entertaining becomes a lot more enjoyable.

Thoughtful and customized storage solutions can make a big difference in how your kitchen works for you. Things like concealed charging stations, pull-down shelving, and built-in organizers keep the items you use most within reach without leaving them out in the open.

Hidden storage also makes your kitchen more comfortable to use. Deep drawers and pull-out shelves let you reach pots, ingredients, and cleaning supplies without digging through cabinets or bending awkwardly. Instead of wrestling with traditional shelving, everything comes to you. It’s a simple upgrade that makes your kitchen feel more organized, more functional, and honestly, a lot less stressful to use every day.

Built-In Cabinets Are the Backbone of Hidden Storage

One of the most impactful hidden storage solutions in modern kitchens is built-in cabinetry. Unlike modular units that can leave awkward gaps or waste vertical space, built-in cabinets are custom-designed to fit your kitchen’s exact dimensions and layout.

With built-ins, you unlock

  • Custom compartments – dedicated spaces for pantry items, spices, utensils, and small appliances.
  • Floor-to-ceiling storage – making full use of vertical space, especially useful in kitchens with high ceilings.
  • Seamless design – creating a polished, cohesive look that feels intentional and upscale rather than piecemeal.
  • No wasted gaps – every inch is used for storage, removing dead space often left by modular pieces.  

Smart Pull-Outs and Organizers

Beyond the cabinets themselves, hidden storage thrives in smart internal features that make everyday tasks easier. Consider pull-out pantry shelves that hide behind a slender door. These are perfect for spices, dry goods, and frequently used ingredients. Or integrate toe-kick drawers beneath base cabinets to store flat but bulky items like baking trays or cutting boards.

Other innovative ideas include:

  • Tip-out trays below sinks for cleaning supplies
  • Oversized corner drawers that turn dead corner spaces into useful storage
  • Concealed shelves behind backsplashes for spices or utensils
  • Hidden trash and recycling stations within cabinetry, keeping waste out of sight and maintaining a clean visual plane

Aesthetic Benefits That Enhance Design

Hidden storage solutions don’t just improve functionality, they boost design. Modern kitchens favor uninterrupted lines, streamlined surfaces, and minimalist hardware. Concealing bulky appliances and everyday tools helps create that calm, cohesive aesthetic. Hidden cabinet features like push-to-open doors or integrated handles reduce visual clutter and make kitchens feel more elegant.

By matching form with function, hidden storage allows kitchens to remain both usable and visually striking. This balance is especially valuable in open-plan homes, where the kitchen flows into the living spaces. The result is a kitchen that feels thoughtfully designed from every angle. 

Bring Brilliant Hidden Storage to Your Kitchen Renovation with Edgewood Cabinetry

Hidden storage solutions are redefining what it means to have a modern kitchen. They blend smart engineering with thoughtful design, creating spaces that are both beautiful and functional. Whether you’re planning a full renovation or a targeted upgrade, integrating hidden storage will elevate your kitchen in both look and performance. 

Ready to transform your kitchen with space-saving solutions that feel tailor-made? Give us a call, and let’s talk about your custom kitchen. Edgewood cabinetry can help bring your vision to life with custom cabinetry designed for real living appeal. 

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Image URL: https://pixabay.com/photos/coffee-brewed-coffee-4388065/ Image from Pixabay, rahulsankraft
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How to Add a Coffee Bar to Your Kitchen with Custom Cabinetry

Why do you need a coffee bar?

According to 4 out of 5 Americans, coffee is what they need to get out of bed in the morning. That means for most of us, coffee is essential for having a good morning. If coffee is that important, don’t leave your morning in anyone else’s hands. There’s no need for a barista to misspell your name or get your order wrong! Dedicate a space in your kitchen to making coffee just how you like it. It’s easier than ever when that space is custom-made for you and your kitchen. You’ll have all the coffee essentials right where you need them. 

Planning Your Space

Ready to get going with your own custom coffee bar? You will need to consider a few things before you jump into the design:

  • Available Space: Do you have an empty nook, wall, or some counter space that feels awkward? Custom cabinetry can transform any area into a polished coffee bar. We can work with what you have to give you the perfect spot. 
  • Appliances: Do you need to plug in a coffee machine? Think about the appliances you are using regularly. If you use any electrical appliances, you’ll need to use a spare outlet or plan to add one in your custom cabinets. 
  • Storage Needs: Do you use pods or have a mug collection? Plan to add drawers,  cabinets, or secret compartments to ensure organization and accessibility. 
  • Water Access: Do you want to add a permanent espresso machine or prep sink? Custom cabinetry can make this easy, but you will need to plan for it early in the process. 
  • Functionality: What are your kitchen routines that you already have in place? Make sure the space you plan for your coffee bar will make sense in the flow of your kitchen. If you need creamers from the fridge or if you have an existing breakfast area, consider installing your coffee bar near that.  

Designing with Custom Cabinetry

Now that you know your space, let’s bring your vision to life! Custom cabinetry can not only fit your space and needs, but your personality and design vision as well. Choose painted cabinets to add a bold pop of color, or stained cabinets for a more classic feel. There are plenty of materials to choose from also. But don’t worry if all the possibilities feel overwhelming, we are with you all along the way to turn your dream coffee bar into reality.

Features to Include in Your Coffee Bar

With materials ready, there are still a few things to think about that will enhance your coffee bar. Consider these:

  • Counter space for your equipment: Think about what machines you will need and provide enough space for them on your counter.
  • Upper Cabinets or Shelves for Mugs: Above your counter, weigh either hiding things away in a beautiful cabinet or displaying your handcrafted collection with open shelving. 
  • Drawers for Supplies: On the lower level, consider drawers for organizing and storing whatever you need. Long and skinny for utensils or deeper for beans, drawers are flexible for your needs. 
  • Built-In Lighting: Lights are great for usability, but they can also highlight special features in your coffee bar. We’ll help you choose the best lighting placement for your space. 

Final Touches to Make it Yours

Once you’ve planned your space and know what you are going to include in your coffee bar, add the finishing touches to really make it yours. Use a backsplash and cabinet hardware to style it your way and add personality. Bins and baskets help with organization as well as decoration. Add plants, prints, or signs to customize and cozy up your area. 

With custom cabinetry, there’s no need to sacrifice style for function. Contact Edgewood Cabinetry today, and we’ll get started on your very own custom home coffee bar. 

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Image by user32212 from Pixabay https://pixabay.com/photos/home-interiors-kitchen-2486092/

Incorporate Custom Cabinets Into an Open-Concept Kitchen

Open concept kitchens are a favorite in modern home design. They’re popular because they create a seamless flow between cooking, dining, and living spaces. But designing your dream open-concept kitchen can also come with challenges. One of the biggest? Storage. 

Without traditional walls and corners, it can be tricky to figure out where all your kitchen tools, cookware, and pantry items will live. That’s where custom cabinetry comes in. With the right cabinet design, you can keep your kitchen clutter-free, functional, and beautiful without sacrificing that open, airy feel. 

Here’s how to make it work brilliantly in your custom kitchen.

Start with a Layout that Zones the Space

Custom cabinets can help define “zones” within your open concept kitchen. You might use a large island to visually separate the kitchen from the living room while incorporating deep drawers, shelves, or even built-in appliances. Tall pantry-style cabinets along one wall can mark the kitchen’s boundary without adding actual walls. 

Use Cabinets as Architectural Elements

Instead of treating cabinets as just another storage must-have, treat them like part of the kitchen structure. Floor-to-ceiling cabinetry can anchor a space and add visual interest. Floating cabinets or glass front uppers help keep things feeling light while still providing storage. 

Mix Open and Closed Storage

Too many closed cabinets in an open layout can start to feel boxy or heavy. On the flip side, too much open shelving can make a space feel cluttered. A custom combo of both allows you to hide less aesthetic items (like blenders or Tupperware) while displaying beautiful dishware or glassware.

Blend Materials with the Rest of the Home

Your cabinetry doesn’t have to scream “kitchen.” In open layouts, cabinetry should echo the materials and tones used throughout the connected spaces. That might mean extending wood tones into a media console in the living area or matching kitchen cabinet hardware with finishes on nearby built-ins.

Maximize Island Storage

In an open layout, the island often becomes the visual centerpiece and it’s also your best bet for extra storage. Opt for custom drawers, integrated wine racks, pull-out shelves, or even hidden outlets inside your cabinets. If the kitchen’s island is facing a living space, consider paneling that blends in with the room’s overall aesthetic. 

Conceal Appliances Behind Cabinetry

To keep the open concept vibe cohesive, hide appliances behind cabinet panels. Custom fronts can disguise fridges, dishwashers, and even range hoods. This “hidden kitchen” approach reduces visual clutter and makes the kitchen feel more like a natural part of the larger living space. 

Don’t Forget Vertical Space

With fewer walls to work with, every inch counts in your custom kitchen. Tall cabinets can help you take full advantage of ceiling height without overwhelming the room. Add pull-out ladders or step stools stored in a toe kick drawer for safe, stylish access.

Lighting Matters

Well-placed lighting in and around your custom cabinets can add all the inviting warmth and depth to the kitchen. Undercabinet lighting, glass cabinet backlights, and integrated LED strips can all help define spaces and enhance ambience. 

Cabinetry That Matches Adjacent Furniture

One clever trick for blending open concept spaces is to design custom cabinets that echo nearby furniture styles. For example, your kitchen island could borrow leg details from your dining table, or your built-ins might use the same finish as your media console. 

Custom cabinets make open concept kitchens more functional, stylish, and in sync with the rest of your home. With thoughtful planning and the right materials, your kitchen can be both the heart and the anchor of your open floor plan.  

Want a kitchen that fits your open concept lifestyle perfectly? Reach out to Edgewood Cabinetry to start designing your dream custom kitchen today.

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Photo by Cup of Couple: https://www.pexels.com/photo/person-opening-a-wooden-cabinet-7303850/ - soft-close cabinets
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Are Soft-Close Cabinets Worth It? The Pros & Cons

When you’re planning a kitchen remodel or cabinet renovation, you’ll consider the big decisions that usually grab all the attention. A fresh kitchen will stand out first with your choice of wood finishes, door styles, countertop pairings. But sometimes the details you barely notice at first make the biggest difference in daily life. Soft-close cabinets fall into that category. They’ve been trending for years, but are they actually worth it, or just another passing upgrade?

Let’s take a closer look at how soft-close hinges and drawer slides work, and why so many homeowners are choosing them.

What Are Soft-Close Cabinets?

Instead of slamming shut, soft-close doors and drawers use special hardware that slows the motion and gently pulls them closed. It’s a small feature, but it changes how your kitchen feels and functions every day.

Why Homeowners Love Them

No More Slamming

The number one reason people switch to soft-close cabinets is simple: peace and quiet. The slow, cushioned close prevents loud bangs that can damage the cabinet frame and loosen hardware over time. Your kitchen stays calm, and your cabinetry stays in good shape longer.

They Can Be Safer for Families

If you have children or older relatives at home, safety is a big factor. The slow close helps prevent pinched fingers and makes it easier to move around the kitchen without worry. Even when your hands are full, you can nudge a door or drawer and let it finish closing on its own.

The Soft-Close Feature Adds a Modern, High-End Feel

Soft-close cabinets are now a hallmark of luxury kitchen design. They look seamless, feel smooth, and signal quality. Whether or not you’re planning to sell soon, they add perceived value that potential buyers notice.

They’re Built for Daily Convenience

Cooking dinner, unloading groceries, grabbing a quick snack… your cabinets get a workout every day. That effortless glide and quiet close might feel like a small perk. But it’s one of those details that makes the whole space feel more enjoyable to use.

Are There Any Drawbacks?

Soft-close hinges and slides can cost a little more than standard cabinet treatments and hardware. They may add a few hundred dollars to a renovation budget. For many homeowners, though, the long-term durability and comfort make that investment worthwhile.

Another point to keep in mind, too, is that the mechanisms can eventually wear out in high-use kitchens. They don’t fail often, but they may need adjustment or replacement after years of heavy use. And if you’re thinking of retrofitting older cabinets, the install can be a bit more involved than swapping in new hinges.

So, Is It Worth It to Invest in Soft-Close Cabinets?

If you’re already investing in a custom cabinet project, the upgrade to soft-close is one of the most satisfying additions you can make. It improves function, protects your cabinetry, and gives your kitchen that polished, high-end feel.

At the end of the day, the decision comes down to how you use your space. If quiet, safety, and modern appeal sound like priorities, soft-close cabinets are absolutely worth considering. If budget is your main concern, standard hardware will still do the job, but without that extra touch of comfort and quality.

Let Edgewood Cabinetry Help You Decide

Every homeowner has a different vision for their dream kitchen. Whether you’re sold on soft-close cabinets or still weighing your options, Edgewood Cabinetry can help you design cabinets that fit your style, your budget, and the way your family lives. From modern kitchens to timeless classics, our team builds cabinetry that combines beauty, durability, and everyday practicality.

Ready to explore your renovation ideas? Reach out to Edgewood Cabinetry, and let’s create a space you’ll love for years.

 

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https://pixabay.com/photos/chefs-kitchen-luxury-home-1515844/ Image by William Kedersha from Pixabay
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How to Choose the Picture-Perfect Cabinet Color for Your Kitchen Remodel

When you picture your dream kitchen, what color do you see for your cabinets? Crisp white, sleek charcoal, deep navy, or maybe a bold pop of green? The truth is, there are endless shades and finishes to choose from, and your cabinet color sets the tone for the entire space. That’s what makes this decision so exciting and, if we’re honest, a little overwhelming.

Whether you’re leaning toward timeless and classic, daring and modern, or somewhere in between, your cabinet color will be the heartbeat of your remodel. 

Before you get lost in the paint deck, here are some smart tips to help you narrow down the possibilities and land on a cabinet color that makes your custom kitchen design pop.

Consider Natural Lighting

Natural light plays a key role in cabinetry colors, and the intensity of the light affects the tone of the cabinet’s finish. Choosing bold colors is a great strategy if your kitchen is bright and sunny, with abundant natural light. But if your kitchen space is darker, with little or no natural light, maybe opt for softer, lighter colors to create a subtler color palette. Don’t forget to include lighting from fixtures, too, which can create the same warmth and color softening as natural light can.

Stay True to Your Sense of Style

Whatever your sense of style, make sure it’s woven into your custom kitchen cabinet design. If you’re more of a minimalist, neutrals, dark blues, or bold gray hues are great starting points for your minimalistic palette. On the other hand, if your style leans more toward a timeless kitchen design, warm colors like cream or classic white can create a design flow that stays relevant. 

Tie In Other Design Elements

Tying other kitchen design elements and the cabinet color choices is essential. Countertops and their composition can clash or complement cabinet colors. Granite countertops feature a variety of colors that can pair nicely with your cabinet choice, while marble countertops and their unique design may detract from your cabinet color choice. The backsplash is another key component in your custom kitchen design to consider. Flooring style and material choices align, too, with your perfect cabinet color. These elements should collectively mesh together to create a warm, inviting space for cooking, gathering, and entertaining.

Trendy or Timeless?

You’ll be hard-pressed to scroll through your streaming platforms without running into a few design shows and DIY offering all the latest trends in kitchen colors and designs. Bold shades and dramatic finishes might look amazing right now, but trends have a way of fading just as quickly as they arrive. The real question is: will you still love that color a year (or even five years) from now?

Some cabinet colors truly are timeless, creating a backdrop that feels fresh no matter what’s trending. Others are fun in the moment but may leave you itching for another update down the road. That’s why it’s important to strike the right balance between what’s hot and what’s lasting. Our design team has the expertise to help you spot which trends are worth embracing and which classic choices will keep your kitchen looking beautiful for years to come.

Our Design Team Will Help You Find the Perfect Cabinet Color

It’s tempting to tackle a kitchen remodel yourself, but a job like this is best left to the professionals. Our design team at Edgewood Cabinetry can sit down with you to discover the best-fit elements to achieve your dream custom kitchen design. 

Ready to go cabinet color exploring with us? We pride ourselves on our design experts, who can help you choose the perfect cabinet hues and create the perfect custom kitchen for your home. Contact us for your free design quote and learn more about achieving your dream kitchen!

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Photo by Mark McCammon: https://www.pexels.com/photo/white-wooden-cupboards-2724749/
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Top Kitchen Cabinet Trends for 2025: What’s In & What’s Out

If you’re planning a kitchen remodel this year, it’s likely you’re also looking into kitchen cabinet designs and styles. After all, they’re the visual anchor to the most popular room in your home. While functionality is, of course, important, the materials and style matter, too. And nothing says “elevated living” quite like charming bespoke cabinetry that balances elegance with top-trending designs.

From sleek and modern to heritage-inspired finishes, this year’s kitchen cabinet trends are certainly packed with wow factor. So, if you’re planning a modern kitchen update or a comprehensive kitchen renovation, these are the hottest kitchen cabinet trends to see. We’ve included in-demand styles from our latest projects, and we’ve scoured the Pinterest boards and top searches online to compile this roster of cabinet trends that are on everyone’s must-have list.

Sculpted, Slab-Front Cabinets

Slab fronts are in with their sleek, minimalist vibe. High gloss finishes and routed grooves add dimension without losing those clean lines. These are popular among both neutral-toned and monochromatic kitchen designs.

Soft-Closing Drawers and Cabinets

While it’s not a new kitchen cabinet trend, soft closing continues to be a feature frontrunner for 2025 kitchen cabinet favorites. Soft-closing drawers and cabinets are more than quiet. They’re also helpful in prolonging the life and condition of your cabinets, eliminating those hard closes.

Rounded Cabinet Edges

Rounded cabinets aren’t exactly the mid-century modern mustard yellow image that flashes before your eyes. In 2025, they look soft, with rounded edges to the island and cabinet corners that give a subtle touch of modern playfulness while softening the harshest areas of the kitchen. The contrast with harder angles that may be necessary in other aspects of the kitchen is soft without taking away from other focal points.

Natural Wood Tones with Bold Touches

Natural wood cabinets are making a comeback, only this time with bolder grains and patterns. While the “rustic farmhouse” look is phasing out, rift-cut white oak and warm walnuts are in, adding organic character to any kitchen. Consider darker stains and grain-forward finishes for a balance between contemporary and cozy.

Metallic Accents for Sophisticated Shine, Not Flash

Another kitchen cabinet trend this year is the phasing out of flashy chromes. Instead, warm metals, like burnished copper, champagne bronze, or brushed brass are the go-to accents for 2025. As inlays or cabinet hardware, they add a touch of luxury without overpowering the kitchen space with flashy shines.

Two-Tone Kitchen Cabinet Colors

Why have one cabinet finish when you can have two? This year, homeowners are mixing up their materials and colors. Adding sophisticated dimensions, many of today’s luxury kitchens feature base cabinets in one color (like a matte black) while upper cabinets are lighter tones (like a creamy taupe or pale oak.) It’s especially powerful in those open-concept kitchens where visual transitions are a key design element.

Invisible Storage and Hidden Functionality

Modern kitchen designs also feature functional storage, and “invisible” storage is growing popular. Built-in appliance garages, toe-kick-drawers, and floor-to-ceiling pantry walls keep the kitchen clean-looking without compromising storage capacity. Lose the clutter with smart, hidden storage throughout to keep your kitchen looking modern and clean.

European-Inspired Minimalist Kitchens

With hints of Italian and Scandinavian designs, frameless kitchen cabinets are trending. They’re especially popular for those who want a modern, uncluttered vibe. These cabinet designs usually include full overlay doors that are flush against each other. The end aesthetic is a wall of beautifully symmetric cabinetry.

Quality Is the New Luxury with Edgewood Cabinetry

If you’re planning (or thinking about) a kitchen remodel or refresh, our Edgewood Cabinetry team of designers can bring your vision to life. Whether you want classic elegance or a bold, modern look, we make the process a breeze. We’ll also guide you through kitchen cabinet selection, with all these latest 2025 cabinet design trends in mind. Connect with us about your kitchen project ideas this year, and start exploring your kitchen cabinet options.

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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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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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brightly lit kitchen
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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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