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by: Guy Morris
Kitchen islands are among the most popular items in kitchen remodelling projects. They offer versatility in style and function. People often add them as part of an overall refacing project. You can choose to blend the island with your countertops and cabinetry or choose a granite island with wood or laminate surfaces.
Kitchen islands are available in a variety of colors, sizes and materials to suit any home décor. Choose contemporary, country homestyle or summer kitchen styles. Look through catalogs and home decorating magazines to see the options and unique designs available. Make notes of what you like and features you need in your island.
Adding Kitchen Islands
You can add an island easily, if you have enough room. Look at several islands and get the exact dimensions of the ones you like best. Measure your kitchen; you will need to leave between forty two and forty eight inches of space around the entire island. You want to make sure you can open your refrigerator, oven and dishwasher easily.
To get the feel for how much space an island will take up, try a little experiment. Find a piece of furniture in your home that is about the size and dimensions of your island. Move this furniture into the kitchen and place it where want the island to be located. Keep it there for about a week or so to help you decide if you can live with it. If it's too large, look for a model with smaller dimensions. Experiment with a few different sizes to find the one that feels right.
There are no rules governing the height. It's a matter of preference and function. You need to decide what the area will be used for to determine how high to make the counter. If you will be cooking, preparing food or using a built in sink, make the height even with your other kitchen cabinets. Choose a lower height for seating with tables, or a higher counter for stool type seating.
Utilizing kitchen islands the clever way
Consider how you will use the island. Do you need more storage space? Think about your lifestyle and what you will You have several choices for cooking, preparing food, clean up and storage.
+ For storage space, islands can be made to match existing kitchen cabinets and counter tops. Cabinets, drawers or a combination of both can be used to maximize storage space.
+ Adding bookshelves to the end creates a great place to display your cookbook collection. Add a few collectibles to the shelves for a more personalized look.
+ Wine lovers sometimes choose to add a wine rack in place of shelves.
+ Cooking space can be built into the top of an island, saving space above the oven. This is a great option for kitchens with a double oven.
+ Consider how you will use the top when choosing counters. A built in butcher block or cutting surface is great if you spend a lot of time preparing food. This helps you avoid cuts and nicks on the surface of your counter.
+ If you like to bake, consider marble. You can prepare and roll out your dough right on the surface without sticking.
+ An island can be used for seating area. Adjust the height lower for table type seating or raise it higher for barstools. Allow about two feet of space per person for comfort.
+ Sinks and appliances, such as dishwashers and trash compactors can be added to an island in place of cabinets.
+ Have an electrical outlet added to one side. This is great for cooking with small appliances like electric mixers or blenders.
Portable Islands
A portable island gives you additional countertop area when you need it. These are a great alternative for smaller kitchens. You can purchase one unassembled and put it together yourself easily. Portables usually are on wheels, allowing you to move it out of the way when you need extra space.
You can purchase a moving island with a cabinet for storage space, or get one that looks like a taller table. A built in cutting board surface gives you additional space for cutting vegetables and preparing food. The most common materials used for the top are steel, tile and wood.
About the author:
Guy Morris is author and designer of the http://www.kitchen-cabinets-tips.cominternetsite. Guy is helping people finding the best solutions on kitchen islands ( http://www.kitchen-cabinets-tips.com/kitchen-islands.html) and designs.
by: Jason Gluckman
If you are looking for durability and easy-to-maintain features in your kitchen sink, then granite is the choice for you. Granite composite sinks resist the rigors of everyday life such as denting, cutting, chipping and staining.
Granite kitchen sinks are made of ultra durable granite composite material and virtually fade proof and solid color throughout. The longwearing, non-porous, non-absorbent granite surface resists scratching, chipping and staining and is heat resistant up to 535 degrees Fahrenheit.
Extremely high price tags are attached to these types of sinks, which are the most scratch resilient sinks that can be purchased today. This durability can be attributed to the compactness of rock particles that coat the surface. As is always the case with quartz composite, this material is not available in a shiny finish.
Granite kitchen sinks, with practical large bowls, come in various colors, including metallic colors.
There are single and double bowl versions of these kitchen sinks.
Bowls are available in different depths. Extra-deep bowls are great for soaking larger pots and roasters, but reduce the amount of space under your counter. Bowl depths range from 5” to 12”.
The placement of the drain in bowls varies. The most common is a center-drain. Some bowls are available with a rear-positioned drain, which offers more usable bowl space. Since the plumbing underneath is set further back, it also adds the benefit of additional under-counter cabinet storage.
Granite kitchen sinks are generally installed from underneath the counter and do not have a rim, so food and debris can be wiped directly into the sink. Any solid surface countertop of manmade material, natural stone or concrete will allow for an under-mounted sink installation. These recessed sinks are the most popular for their glamorous appeal and superior functionality.
About the author:
Kitchen Sinks Info provides detailed information on stainless steel, copper, vintage, granite, corner, and acrylic kitchen sinks, faucets, and more. Kitchen Sinks Info is the sister site of Granite Counter Tops Web.
by: Mike Yeager
Granite countertops are among the most beautiful things you can add to your kitchen. Kitchen countertops gain a beautiful glow from these pieces of art. They are made in nature and, once harvested by people, are refined into beautiful kitchen countertops that will add value to any kitchen. They come in many colors, colors that are made in nature and of true iridescent quality.
Of course there are other options beyond granite countertops. Other choices include anything from concrete countertops to corian countertops to laminate counter tops. Whatever choice you make for your solid surface countertops, take some time to research your options. Many of these choices are expensive investments in your kitchen. Learning some about your options will benefit you in the long run.
Some information about each of your choices is here. Corian countertops, also known as DuPont, are a blend of natural materials and acrylic polymers that together create a smooth, clean, seamless work space. It is available in 90 colors and will need to be specially ordered. They also boost of their nonporous surface that is easy to clean and stays new looking for years. Or, if you want something more art like, look into concrete countertops. Basically in any shape or style you can imagine, they are what their name suggests, made out of concrete. It is a completely different look then the granite or corian. Here you are only limited by your imagination.
Yet another choice is laminate countertops. This is the most common kitchen countertop available. It is synthetic, made up of colored plastics. It is available in many colors and even patterns and finishes. It is easy to upkeep and tends to be less expensive then the others mentioned.
Lastly, while considering your choices, choose whatever fits your budget and tastes. With so many choices and options available, it is definitely worth the investment of time in choosing kitchen countertops that you will love for a lifetime.
About the author:
Mike Yeager
Publisher
http://www.a1-kitchen-cabinets-4u.com/
by: Lee Dobbins
Just like a nice outfit, your kitchen can benefit from accessories! If you are thinking about redecorating but don’t have a lot of dough to put into your kitchen, try simply adding some accessories in a matching theme or color and see how it transforms the room!
Now before you rush out to the store, you should probably decide what sort of theme you are going for. Do you want the look of old Italy? How about a cottage theme? Why not try a country style kitchen? You will want to buy different accessories depending on the theme you choose.
If you can’t quite put your finger on exactly what you want, look in magazines and decorating books or surf the internet to get a flavor of the accessories you would like to see in your kitchen. Once you have found a style you like, you can purchase accessories close to those you see in the magazine or book. Color choices, of course, should compliment the main color in the room.
Sometimes, you can just rearrange the accessories you already have to create a whole different look. It is recommended to group your accessories in odd numbers rather than even numbers. Different heights and textures are also attractive.
Hanging artwork or decorative plates, trays or other wall art in your kitchen can really add to the ambiance, but did you know that most people do not know how to hang wall décor properly? The rule of thumb is that a picture of piece of wall decor should be hung so that the middle of the piece is at eye level. Art work should be placed no more than seven to ten inches above a table. Grouping wall decor in geometric shapes such as rectangles, triangles or circles adds interest.
Bakers racks or open cupboards are too cluttered in most kitchens. If you are using it to store cookbooks, vary the heights of books with the tallest in the middle and avoid putting small books next to tall books. Removing the dust covers can often make the books look more appealing. You can also decorate the shelves with candles, family pictures, fancy bowls, baskets or pantry boxies in odd number groupings of 1, 3 or 5 pieces. Place a plant on the top shelf for balance.
Certain accessories can give your kitchen a gourmet feel. Hanging copper pots and pans from a wire rack attached to the ceiling can add warmth and color. Don't be afraid to hang plants from any bare ceiling corner to give a lived in feeling to a plain kitchen. Growing herbs in a decorative container on the windowsill can be a great way to add interest and improve your cooking. Accessorize your counter tops with canisters or cooking utensils. A large bowl of fruit on the kitchen table can be fresh or artificial.
Once you have decided on the look you want, don’t feel like you have to run out and buy everything that day. Take your time and shop around for those perfect pieces. Try antique stores, consignment shops or flea markets for ideas. Accessories can make or break the look of your kitchen so be creative and trust your instincts!
About the author:
Lee Dobbins writes for http://www.a-kitchen-decorating-idea.comwhere you can find out more about decorating your kitchen. Learn more about how accents can enhance your kitchen at http://www.a-kitchen-decorating-idea.com/kitchen-design-idea.html
by: Jason Gluckman
If you want a touch of class and art in your kitchen, you might consider choosing a copper sink. Copper sinks are crafted from first quality, super-thick copper, hand-hammered and formed into a charming early American style.
Each sink is individually made. Hence, it is possible to have a custom-made sink for your kitchen. The hammered kitchen copper sink is a beautiful piece of art.
Because each piece is made from a copper sheet by an artisan his hammer footprint is very visible. The reddish/oxidated texture is characteristic of natural copper when it is cooled down from red-hot temperature using cold water.
Copper sinks are made of heavy, solid copper and come in natural copper patinas of ‘Weathered Copper’ or in ‘Dark Bronze’ copper. Copper sinks may have a hand hammered surface and some of them come with polished and satin nickel finish. The dark farm sinks have a warm, dark brown finish.
Extra thick casting will easily weather a lifetime of use while absorbing noise and deflecting scratches and dings. Copper sinks are extremely resistant to stains and discoloration. They are called ‘live’ sinks, because their patina ages and improves with time. Moreover, copper is known to keep bacteria at bay, providing a healthier environment.
Kitchen sinks may be available as a single or a double sink, in round, rectangular, oval and other shapes. Copper kitchen sinks should be under mounted for easiest installation.
They are easy to maintain. Copper kitchen sinks can be re-polished for a bright appearance. One can re-sand the sink to remove scratches and signs of wear. The patina on the copper sink will not allow the metal to rust because it protects from humidity and oxidation.
About the author:
Kitchen Sinks Info provides detailed information on stainless steel, copper, vintage, granite, corner, and acrylic kitchen sinks, faucets, and more. Kitchen Sinks Info is the sister site of Granite Counter Tops Web.
by: ARA
(ARA) – Veering away from its utilitarian roots, the function of today’s kitchen has broadened to become a social gathering space for friends and a homework space for kids. Fall is a good time to spice up your kitchen’s comfort level and transform it into the nucleus of your home.
“Most people are nesting at home, surrounding themselves with things that bring convenience and comfort to their living space,” says Billy Beson of William Beson Interior Design, Ltd. in Minneapolis, “including the kitchen, where the sky is the limit with today’s design options.”
According to the National Association of Remodeling Industry, kitchens rank third as a home remodeling project. In fact, the return for homeowners at resale, on minor home-improvements projects, is 88 percent of their renovation dollar, according to “Remodeling.”
“Repeatedly, homeowners comment that our natural quartz countertops are the crown jewel of their kitchen, and that they love the look and color,” says Lisa Bien-Sinz director of marketing of CAMBRIA, the only quartz countertops producer in the United States. “We’re seeing customers remodel their kitchens and incorporate one of today’s hottest trends -- quartz.”
In order to spice up your kitchen and create a comfortable yet attractive space, consider these trends:
* Color: Bold to natural hues – Adding color changes the look and feel of a room. Selecting a colorful countertop is a practical and decorative option for sprucing up a kitchen. When deciding on a color palette for your kitchen, Beson suggests choosing five adjectives that describe how you want the space to feel. “These five adjectives can be your barometer in finalizing your color choice,” said Beson. “For example if you want your kitchen to be cool, light, airy and open, then stay natural and avoid dark woods, black countertops and lots of pattern.”
* Countertops: Natural and no maintenance – Quartz is leading the trend in natural countertops. This natural stone is available in a dazzling array of color. As you expand functional space in the kitchen, a quartz countertop is a smart choice, especially for an island, because it is non-porous, it is especially suitable for food preparation, durable enough to withstand active kids, yet so attractive it makes for a gorgeous centerpiece.
* Backsplash: Colorful tiles add a unique statement – Spark your creativity and accent your kitchen walls with a customized backsplash. Mix-and-match colorful tiles into a one-of-a-kind design. This accent will add character to the wall behind your sink, and life to your kitchen.
* Food Safety in the Kitchen: A safe surface for the entire family – While sweet aromas can lure anyone into the kitchen, bacteria, mold and mildew invisibly lurk in the food preparation space no matter what’s cooking. Gourmet chefs and food-safety conscious parents often have to scrub the countertops before and after serving a delicious fare, but no more.
Today, ideal surfaces for kitchens are non-porous countertops, such as CAMBRIA. Unlike granite, CAMBRIA is non-porous resulting in extremely low moisture absorption, reducing the potential for bacterial growth. In fact, The National Sanitation Foundation (NSF, International) has certified CAMBRIA Quality Quartz Surfaces for both Splash Zone and Food Zone preparation.
CAMBRIA has more advice to offer homeowners seeking answers to questions about color selections and mixing and matching with existing cabinetry to enhance their kitchen living space. For additional information about CAMBRIA, call 1-866-CAMBRIA or visit their Web site at www.CAMBRIAUSA.com.
Courtesy of ARA Content
by: Jason Gluckman
In any household, a kitchen sink is one of the central fixtures and always sees plenty of action. It is used both for preparing food and for cleaning up after every meal. It can add to or take away from the overall effect of your kitchen’s design. Durability and attractiveness are both important qualities in kitchen sinks.
More than simply functional necessities, sinks now offer more design appeal, softer lines, and a variety of finishes. Every homemaker faces the challenge of choosing the right sink for the kitchen, and the kitchen sink provides the finishing touch to any new kitchen project.
Modern sinks are not just made of a simple faucet and bowl. They come in multiple bowls of various sizes and shapes and are designed with integral drainers, cutting boards, soap dispensers, instant hot water dispensers, purified water taps, sprayers and more.
Sinks are also made of stainless steel, enameled metal, solid surfacing materials and quartz composites, and of course the traditional porcelain.
There is a great amount to consider when choosing a kitchen sink. Size, in width and depth, is of course the biggest choice you will make when choosing a sink to fit your kitchen. You also have a choice of materials used in making the sink - stainless steel, granite or copper.
Stainless steel sinks are made in many sizes and several thicknesses. Enamel on cast iron or steel sinks are made in an assortment of colors. Quartz composite sinks also come in a variety of colors and patterns.
Many people prefer stainless steel sinks because they are believed to be easier to care for. Some solid-surface countertop materials may be formed to include rimless, seamless sinks that are a perfect match.
Your sink choice is restricted by the size of your cabinet and counter top. All kitchen sinks require a minimum cabinet size. You can find out the size of your cabinet by measuring under the existing sink or where the new sink will go.
About the author:
Kitchen Sinks Info provides detailed information on stainless steel, copper, vintage, granite, corner, and acrylic kitchen sinks, faucets, and more. Kitchen Sinks Info is the sister site of Granite Counter Tops Web.
