How To Decorate With Textures

Texture is everything and can play a vital role in how you layer the look and feel of a space in your home. Just remember that moderation is key. Knowing where to start is important, but so is knowing when to stop.

Decide a Look

Hewn wooden ceiling beams are accented by a weathered-wood farm table.

Do you want a cozy look and feel? Then select woods, plush fabrics, woven surfaces and natural fabrics for the floors and surfaces to add texture to a room. However if a streamlined look is what you want, then introduce lacquer, plastics, metals and glass. Just remember that balance is key. The best rooms have a perfect mix of both.

Introduce Nature

Thick, twisty tree branch and vase filled with freshly cut winding twigs.

Nature can play an interesting role in the home. It’s the perfect place to draw inspiration. Try using shells, stones, horns, feathers, and the unexpected, like cotton blossoms and birch branches, as decorative objects.

Make it an Accent

Leather Ceiling Tiles

Replace your accent colors with textures and surfaces. Texture can be used in place of color in a monochromatic scheme. And don’t forget the walls. Whether you include high-gloss paints, shell, leather wall tiles or Venetian plaster… walls are a great surface to play up texture.

Adjust the Lights

Relaxing Den

Your lighting scheme is just as crucial as the textural surfaces you add. Be aware of the materials and objects that reflect light or create visually interesting shadows.

4 Simple Bathroom Updates

As homeowners begin to look into a renovation, they may decide a complete makeover isn’t necessary. Or maybe they would like to update just particular feature to enhance a room’s look. For the bathroom, if a renovation isn’t on the table, consider these 4 simple updates to recreate your space.

Update Your Floors

Add value and style to your bathroom floors. Porcelain, ceramic and natural stone continue to be super popular with homeowners and designers. Also you’ll get the most added value with an almost dollar for dollar investment.

Exchange Your Shower Head

Should you sell your home, even the simplest detail plays a role. Therefore, minor updates shouldn’t be avoided. By switching out your shower head, you can turn your shower into an oasis. Consider a rain head for its dollar for dollar return on investment.

Install New Lighting

Lighting makes a huge impact in a room creating the ambience you desire. Instead of glaring, blinding lightbulbs above the sink, install task lighting. These lights can be recessed into the ceiling, or even select a pendant or sconce fixture to help illuminate the mirror. Track lighting also continues to be a wonderful option, providing lights to sit along a track on the ceiling or wall. You can adjust their position to shine wherever you want.

Switch Out Your Sink

With so many tasks taking place around the sink, why not update it for a look that appeals to the eye? Not only can sinks be fun, but also they can introduce luxury into your bathroom. Simple details like a new shiny chrome faucet and porcelain handles can add a lot of value to your home. Integrated sinks, in which there are no edges or hangovers from the countertop to the sink, continue to be a homeowner’s favorite. Also, vessel sinks are a creative way to bring life and uniqueness into the space.

3 Colors for 2013

The year is fresh and new, so you are probably considering ideas on how to update your home. In addition to renovating your kitchen or bathroom, color is a simple way to revive a space and add personality. Explore these three colors designers are excited about in 2013.

Olive

Relaxing yet bold enough to make a statement, olive is the perfect shade of green that can be used in any room. The color pairs well with cream and brown tones. We personally enjoy this color for the living room accented with brown leather furniture.

Rose

Create a welcoming escape in any nook with this pink hue. The color is perfect for the foyer or even in a dining area. Rose goes well with a variety of colors creating a lush and rich feel. Incorporate the color in spaces where guests will gather due to its inviting nature.

Charcoal

The grey family may have some of our favorite tones. When you use colors like charcoal in the home, you can juxtapose your most eclectic pieces in style and color. Accent colors can be a breath of fresh air in rooms of neutral colors, so get creative. Bring in pieces that will pop, such as a red sofa, bright tufted benches or funky art.

Design Durability and Bathroom Beauty

The balance between durability and efficiency with comfort and beauty is the ultimate goal of bathroom design. Homeowners are looking for a reliable space to withstand time and use, which is, at the same time, the safe haven they need to escape everyday life. In years past the options were minimal, however, today there are tons of choices when designing the ultimate multi-functional bathroom.

Bathroom designers and suppliers are producing more diverse products. The industry is constantly improving and refining the manufacturing processes and materials without forgoing style. Every fixture has endured some change for the modern bathroom. Wooden bathroom furniture can now withstand the steam-filled rigors of daily life. By pre-treating the furniture with a moisture resistant coating, you enhance the performance and durability of the product. Manufacturers have been using higher quality materials, such as acrylic and resin, for tubs and showers that retain heat. These products are also easier to clean and are stain/scratch resistant. Lastly, improved technology provides better control of water temperature flow rate for faucets and shower heads.

With 60% of water usage taking place in the bathroom, it’s important for manufacturers to discover ways to reduce the home’s impact on the environment, and also your utility bill. To reduce water consumption, dual flush toilets and ceramic disc technology hare two great developments. Also cabinet manufacturers, including Wood-Mode, have become industry leaders in developing greener products and processes for the home.

The modern bathroom isn’t financially out of reach as you may think. You can certainly find the special products you desire to design a space without forgoing reliability and durability.

Color of 2013: Emerald

 

As most of you may recall, Pantone chooses a color that will represent each year. Last year Tangerine Tango, a spirited reddish orange, provided the energy boost we needed to recharge and move forward. In 2013, enhance your sense of well-being by inspiring insight as well as promoting balance and harmony. Emerald, a vivid verdant green, is the official color for the new year.

Often associated with brilliant, precious gemstones, Emerald is sophisticated and luxurious. This magnificent hue has been the color of beauty and new life in many cultures and religions. Also the color of growth, renewal and prosperity, no other color conveys regeneration more than green. For centuries, many countries have chosen green to represent healing and unity.

Emerald brings a sense of clarity, renewal and rejuvenation, which is so important in today’s complex world. This powerful tone translates easily within home interiors. Add this vibrant hue throughout your home as a soothing pop of color. Pillows, wallpaper prints, dishes in the kitchen and decorative boxes are just a few design ideas for the home. The color also pairs well with browns, darker greys, neutrals and jewel tones, including cobalt blue and magenta.

When A Kitchen Is No Longer A Kitchen

With a new year already underway, I’m excited to announce that our Chief Cabinet Officer Evan Levey will be guest writing for our blog. Evan is a phenomenal guy whose knowledge about design and functionality in the kitchen, especially cabinetry, makes him a real go-to resource here at CCW. I hope you enjoy his first article today. You can expect his articles to appear quarterly, so be on the lookout for them. I know I will be!

Laura

Happy New Year!

I hope everyone had a great holiday season. As things became mercifully still over the final weeks of the year, I began reflecting on what the number one trend in kitchen design is today. My conclusion agrees with many experts who are writing on the topic in publications ranging from Architectural Digest to the Wall Street Journal. The number one trend is the kitchen is no longer just the kitchen and is taking up more square footage in the home than ever before.

The kitchen today plays a host of functions from a place to prepare meals to an entertaining space, from a spot to work on homework to an extension of the living room. Our clients have been working with our designers on ways to integrate their lifestyle into the room that they love. In a recent project, a client wanted an island where he could be cooking and guests could be enjoying wine and hors d’oeuvres. The trick was to maintain a clear distinction between the cook and the guest sides of the island while at the same time making everyone feel they are together. As the kitchen becomes more and more a “living” space, paneling appliances, seating areas and entertainment nooks are becoming even more popular.

The size of the kitchen continues to grow and is taking up more square footage of the first floor than ever before. Additionally, our designers are coming up with more and more creative ways to design an open floor plan, where the kitchen appears to melt into surrounding rooms but maintains its unique identity.

Finally, although the kitchen is playing a host of roles, its primary function is still connected to food and the kitchens we design need to be ready for all different types of chefs. Whether someone enjoys preparing gourmet meals for friends, simple comfort food family dinners or warming up Chinese take-out, the kitchen needs to be properly designed and equipped.

Please be in touch with any projects you are considering. We would love to make a difference in your home.

All the best for a happy and healthy New Year,

Evan
Columbia CabinetWorks

5 Bathroom Trends for 2013

Last year, the bathroom was one of the most frequently renovated rooms for homeowners. As 2013 begins, it’s time to take a look at how the bathroom is making changes in the new year.

Spa Like Experiences

The bathroom is no longer a space only meant for washing up. It’s becoming more like a spa where one can relax and unwind. Soaking tubs offer the homeowner a beautiful style tub that is deeper than standard models. These tubs are designed to be the focal point of your bathroom while providing an “up to your neck” water experience. As for showers, they’re becoming more and more over-the-top. Pamper yourself with 10”, 12”, even 18” rain heads combined with 4 to 8 body sprays, or even throw in a steam unit to help ease and soothe tired muscles after a long day or workout.

Tile Is King

Whether used on the floors, backsplashes or in shower enclosures, eye-catching tiles are a must in today’s bathroom design. Tile manufacturers are pushing the limits in design and technology to create tile that is art. Large format tiles have been a huge hit recently. People love tiles made from wood to stone to concrete. Tiles with large graphic prints are also popular and are often used to create a stunning look for a bathroom wall. For luxury bathrooms, porcelain continues to be the go-to choice.

Space-Saving Cabinetry and Vanities

As designers work to create the perfect bathroom for homeowners, they’re cleverly designing cabinetry that has additional storage space. These vanities are a super efficient use of space, often eliminating the need to increase the footprint of the room. Floating vanities and cabinetry are by far the most popular choices in modern bathroom design. Their sleek and elegant look can help make a room feel larger and allow for under cabinet lighting.

Bathroom Art

Most people wouldn’t consider placing art in the bathroom because of its hot, wet and steamy conditions. Today, people are looking for ways to add a bit of excitement and individuality. This can be achieved by including beautifully printed tiles or glass screens that are waterproof and withstand harsh bathroom conditions.

Colors That Pop

Last year whites, beiges, browns and greys were popular with homeowners. For 2013, we see a continued emphasis of these colors as neutral tones and patterns, but with a twist. This year, you’ll want to mix in pops of bright, vibrant colors. We’re loving green, blue, orange and pink. Just remember not to overdue it. These colors should be used to accent and accentuate.

CCW’s Holiday Wish List: Bathroom

As we continue sharing our holiday wish list, you’re gonna love these indulgent products for the bathroom.

GROHE Rainshower Cosmopolitan

For modern bathrooms, products that combine the latest design styles with high performance features are a must! The GROHE Rainshower Cosmopolitan handheld shower spray provides the luxurious feeling that will have you taking longer baths. From its chrome finish to four superb spray options, this piece will create the perfect shower to refresh, relax and rejuvenate!

Myson Electric Towel Warmers

Feel decadent every time you step out of the shower to dry off with a cozy, warm towel. This model from Myson Electric Towel Warmers provides a safe, reliable heating element that easily mounts to the wall. It’s stainless steel finish will look great in any bathroom while remaining energy efficient. Best of all, the product comes with a three year warranty in case of any manufacturing defects.

5th Avenue Egyptian Cotton Luxury Bath Towel Set

Woven in Egypt from the finest Egyptian Cotton, these towels from 5th Avenue are designed to wrap you in the kind of luxury found in most exclusive spas. These durable towels are deep-looped and densely stitched for optimal quality. They make the perfect gift for someone or keep a set for yourself!

DreamLine Majestic Jetted & Steam Shower

With its superb craftsmanship and unique materials, the MAJESTIC shower demonstrates true luxury. Designed to be installed against tiled walls, the model includes a rain top brass shower head, two recessed roof lights, six adjustable body jests and a designer shower head. The integrated steam controller includes On / Off / Time / Temperature settings for full steam adjustment and provides control access to lights, FM radio and MP3 sound functions. We love that its built in water management system lets us control the water temperature. Whether used for a simple shower, jet massage or steam bath, the MAJESTIC jetted and steam shower enclosure truly is….majestic!

4 Winter Paint Colors

In the home, colors play an important role by adding personality, depth and beauty. This winter, forget about drab colors and freshen up your favorite rooms with these energetic colors.

Lavender

When you paint a room lavender, you introduce an added layer of depth. The rich hue reflects light well and provides a cheerful note to your space that you are sure to enjoy.

Turquoise

For a chic look in your home, turquoise adds an intensity you’ll love. It’s a color that is ultra saturated giving any room a modern architectural feel.

Soothing Green

By painting the walls a soft green, you mimic the wonderful feel of nature. A fascinating color, green is both warm and cool at the same time. Unlike many other colors, this shade isn’t grayed down, so it feels more yellow during the day. At night when the sun goes down, it becomes more blue.

White

Cheer up any home with a basic, clean shade of white. The color has the ability to lift a dark room and revitalize its energy by reflecting light all around, much like a prism.

Saratoga’s Best Master Bathroom

As most of you already know, we had the privilege to work with our friends at Witt Construction for the Saratoga Showcase of Homes. We worked on the home located at 61 Granite Street and provided the Brookhaven cabinetry in several rooms of the home, including the kitchen and three bathrooms. Not only did the home win the “Realtor’s Choice for Luxury Home,” but also “Best Luxury Master Bathroom”!!

The winning master bathroom, was created with his and hers vanities separated by a middle bookcase and TV cabinet. Our designer Anna wanted to create a spa like feel with rich, dark cherry cabinets. However, she wanted the cabinetry to be simple and compliment the light Carrera marble and soothing colors. At the client’s request, storage was a must. Anna designed the vanity with a large center bank of drawers which resembled a Victorian apothecary.

For the powder room, we created a rustic piece that was like an antique washstand. By using a black distressed finish that was similar to the kitchen island, we were able to tie the rooms together. However, CCW wanted the piece to also stand on its own in the home so a different door style and furniture details were used. The white vessel sink really pops off the color of the black countertop. It continues to enhance the rustic feel in the room as it relates more to a wash basin than to a standard sink.

Lastly, the second master bathroom on the second floor had to be equally stunning. As you enter the bathroom, we planned for two vanities, each on either side of the door. The vanity on the right was to be used as the main sink and faucet area, while the one to the left provided the perfect amount of space to sit or apply makeup. The home had beautiful heart pine floors on the first floor, so we incorporated Heartwood Maple cabinetry into the vanities. We felt this would be a great option to continue with the rustic theme throughout the home. It also added a warm feel with lots of color variation.

Remember there’s still time to tour the home as the showcase runs this Saturday and Sunday from 11am-5pm each day and also the following weekend at the same times.  Be sure to check back on our blog next week as we share the details of the kitchen!

-Laura