Designing A Happy Home On Kitty Lane

After Photo

When it comes to the initial discussions of kitchen design, there are some homeowners who haven’t really thought about what they want and others who definitely have. Jean falls in this second category, having given plenty of thought to exactly what she wanted in her kitchen.

Before Photo

Our designer Amy went on a visit to Kitty Lane to speak with Jean about custom cabinetry. Amy soon learned that Jean wanted white French Vanilla cabinets, a butcher block, soapstone countertops and a height functional dishwasher. In her original kitchen she had a hole, but no dishwasher. Jean made it clear that she didn’t want to bend down and that the kitchen was going to be all about her and comfort. Well Jean, we couldn’t agree more with you there. A kitchen should cater to the homeowner’s needs and wants. Amy planned to raise the dishwasher off of the floor so there was no back-breaking hassle. To this day this feature is one of Jean’s favorite parts of the kitchen.

Another obstacle that needed to be overcome was to have more counter surface for Jean’s work stations. To achieve this we relocated the stove and the refrigerator to allow a prep surface between the range & the sink and also worked in a Booz butcher block that was a must have! By moving the appliances to other locations, we created more nooks for storage. We built in the refrigerator with a turned pantry to store brooms and box food items.

After the range was relocated across the room, the old vent was removed and mid-install Jean cleverly decided to turn this ordinary hole into a focal point in her kitchen. She had a port hole shipped over night for the installer to put in the very next day. This is another part of Jean’s kitchen that is unique to her.

Jean says, “My new Kitchen has changed my life! No more messes on the counters or sink! A place for everything, a bread drawer, cutlery drawer, lazy susans, a broom closet and pantry! Just fantastic! So totally NOT out of the box! Beautiful!”

Thank you Jean! Also, thank you Amy for assisting with the layout and design of this eclectic and beautiful kitchen!

-Laura

Designing a French Country Farmhouse Style Kitchen

As most of you may already know, we have been thrilled to be a part of the Saratoga Showcase of Homes this year. We have enjoyed working with Witt Construction on the award winning bathrooms, but also in the kitchen. Yes, we were thrilled to also design the kitchen in the home at 61 Granite Street! Set in Saratoga Springs, NY, the kitchen was planned with a French Country farmhouse theme. Anna designed the kitchen with a balance of masculine and feminine styles to match the area known for its beautiful Victorian architecture. Although the home is a completely new construction, it looks like it could have been built a century ago in the historic city. Anna made it her mission to ensure that the design would fit the architecture of the home, the rich history of Saratoga Springs and the needs and wants of the client. Since the kitchen has gorgeous high ceilings reaching 115”, Anna planned to use stacked cabinetry with small windows in the upper layer of cabinets for display. The client fell in love with Wood-Mode cabinetry’s copper chicken wire inserts, so the material was used in the windows instead of glass to create a homey farmhouse feel. To play up the farmhouse details, we also used a 3” wide beadboard in the backs of the open display cabinet over the refrigerator, the bookcase cabinet to the right of the refrigerator, and the back of the island. Anna was smart to incorporate a gorgeous black soapstone countertop (a product that was used quite a bit in the Northeast a hundred years ago) which elevated the Victorian feel. We also chose to use a medium stained glazed maple finish on the main kitchen cabinets, complemented by a large distressed black island that gives the space an unfitted look and also helps ground the tall space with the dark color. The worn through corners and edges on the island perfectly match the color of the rest of the maple cabinets in the kitchen. To continue with the rustic elements in the kitchen, Witt Construction planned and built a gorgeous stucco hood as the centerpiece of the kitchen. To add some elegance to the space, we planned an oversized crown moulding around the tops of the wall cabinets and the custom stucco hood. We also added hand carved onlays on the repeated columns on either side of the range and also on all four corners of the island. Anna’s favorite details were these columns because they actually opened to reveal custom tray, cookie sheet and cutting board storage. I also loved the mail center on the right of the refrigerator. The bottom base drawers are file cabinets and the upper section is perfect for showing off the client’s large collection of cookbooks.

We also used some repeated elements from the architecture of the home. The arch over the refrigerator was custom designed to match Witt Construction’s arch for the pass-through into the dining room. To help tie in the chicken wire from the upper cabinets, the birdcage handles and knobs were installed. The beadboard detail was carried into the beaded frame of the inset cabinets, the bead around the opening of the arched display cabinet over the refrigerator, and the bottom of the crown moulding detail. Lastly, Anna chose traditional mouldings in various sizes to create some interest and allow the eye to move up to the large crown moulding at the ceiling. You should also note the rustic farmhouse pendants that hang over the island. Our client found them at Barnyard Lighting, and I don’t think she could have chosen better! Again, we have enjoyed working on this stunning project. Anna, the work you accomplished in this home has been superb! Remember there’s still time to tour the home as the showcase runs this Saturday and Sunday from 11am-5pm each day. Hope to see you there! -Laura

Your Cookware Guide to a Better Kitchen

Being a good cook takes more than just delicious recipes. Homeowners need to be certain they have the right equipment. I personally enjoy using nonstick pots and pans in my home, and would recommend Calphalon or Anolon types. Before you make your final decision, take a look at the numerous cookware products many stores offer.

Copper

Copper is a very luxurious kitchen product that heats quickly and evenly. Before you consider this elegant cookware, be aware that copper may be hard to handle and is high-maintenance. Frequent polishing is needed to keep it looking pristine, and regular use will eventually cause the tin lining to wear through, leaving you susceptible to copper poisoning. To avoid that, the worn pan will have to be re-tinned by a craftsman.

Nonstick

Nonstick pans are easy to clean, but will be damaged when used over heat that is too high. Overheating may also release toxins. I highly recommend not to clean these with abrasives You should also avoid metal utensils, which can scratch.

Cast Iron

Whether the cookware is enameled or not, iron warms slowly but distributes heat evenly. I love how cast iron lasts forever. But keep in mind that it’s quite heavy and that non-enamaled pieces need to be regularly “seasoned” with cooking oil to control rust and provide a nonstick cooking surface.

Aluminum

Aluminum heats well and resists corrosion. The material is also lightweight. If you choose to go with aluminum, make sure you buy pots and pans with a protective anodized coating. Uncoated aluminum reacts with acidic ingredients, such as tomatoes and peppers, which will pit the metal that may seep aluminum into your food.

Clad Stainless

Clad stainless steel is a layer of heat-conducting copper or aluminum coated with stainless steel. It’s one of the easiest cookware materials to care for. Another plus is that many manufacturers now make dishwasher-safe pieces.

Carbon Steel

Carbon steel, which is often used for woks, heats very quickly. Unlike cast iron, it needs to be seasoned to reduce sticking.

Enameled Steel

Enameled steel is lighter than enameled cast iron, however, it is not ovenproof. The material is also easy to clean, resistant to sticking, and heats quickly and evenly.

-Laura

Luke’s Favorite Things for the Kitchen

As the newest member of CCW, Luke has been an excellent addition to the team. And no, I’m not just saying that because he’s my son. Luke has been extremely eager to assist the team with their design needs and was very excited to share his favorite things for the kitchen!

Liven up your kitchen as you cook and entertain with the Bose Wave Stereo with SoundLink. This wonderful device allows you to listen to music wirelessly from your computer or Bluetooth. What Luke loves most about the system is its proprietary waveguide speaker technology that enables full-bodied sound, especially in lower registers, for more natural sounding bass and percussion instruments.

DuPont Corian Solid Surface Countertops

Solid surface, best known in DuPont Corian countertops, is a great solution for your kitchen or bath counters. Unlike granite or quartz, solid surface is workable with regular woodworking tools. It needs no sealer coat which means stains, blemishes, and scratches can be easily wiped or sanded away. To add to it, Corian is non-porous and can have an entirely seamless look when properly installed.

Wolf R486G 48″ Pro-Style Gas Range

Wolf has perfected the form, function and sheer durability of our gas ranges. The stainless steel exterior finish of the Wolf R486G 48″ gas range offers 6 dual brass open burners and 4.4 cubic feet of convection main oven. It’s definitely a great option for large families and those that like to entertain. Don’t forget, Wolf gas ranges are available in natural or LP gas.

Open Space Kitchens

Blend the look of your kitchen and living room into one open floor plan. Today, the kitchen is no longer just a place to cook, but also to entertain, work and unwind. For smaller kitchens, consider adding a small sofa in a nook for watching TV, reading or homework.

Double Glass Sliding Doors

Connect the kitchen to the outdoors with double glass sliding doors. These smooth sliding and functional doors make it easier to transport dishes and food to your outside deck or patio. They also help bring natural light into the kitchen which can help you save on your electric bill.

Don’t miss our final article tomorrow with Ray sharing his favorite things for the bathroom!

-Laura

Anna’s Favorite Things for the Kitchen

You may not know it, but our designer Anna has a background in historic preservation. With each of her designs, she mixes that background with her passion of the fine arts. Together, she designs a space that is truly spectacular. Below, see what a few of Anna’s favorite things are in the kitchen.

La Cornue French Cooker Range

If you ever want to perfect Boeuf Bourguignon, this is the one range you will want. La Cornue is an unrivaled French range that is still only produced to order, and is individually hand-made with patience and pride. With only a few hundred produced a year, you’ll appreciate the quality use of cast iron, steel, solid brass, nickel and enamel used to build longevity into the range. You’ll also love the charm and the power of these gorgeous and luxurious French ranges.

Light and Dark Cabinetry

Many of today’s kitchens have homeowners selecting a mix of both white and dark colors within the space. For Anna, she recommends to incorporate dark islands, furniture pieces and accents into your white cabinet design. The white cabinets create an elegant and clean feel while the dark woods are rich and traditional.

Large Kitchen Windows

The use of sunlight in the kitchen is as essential as the refrigerator. Incorporate huge windows that will flood the room with light. Also, a huge window will allow the space to open up and not feel confined.

Chippendale Mullion Glass Inserts

The use of glass door cabinets in kitchens makes a space feel more open and spacious. They also reflect the light within the room while adding a bit of luxury and style. If using glass doors in your kitchen design, incorporate Chippendale style mullions. These mullion glass inserts provide a sense of 19th century furniture and a classic timeless feel. For a slightly less formal version, keep the windows divided with a basic “X” mullion.

Statuario Marble Backsplash

There’s nothing more decadent that having a solid marble backsplash behind oven ranges. Keep the look luxurious and frame within a large mantel hood. What Anna loves about Statuario marble is the gorgeous striking vein pattern that becomes an instant focal point.

Don’t miss tomorrow’s article to see what Amy recommends for the bathroom!

-Laura

100 Ideas for Your Home

It feels like yesterday I started writing our blog to share with homeowners the latest in design trends and renovation ideas. Today, I am thrilled to be writing our 100th post! To celebrate, our design team has gathered a list of 100 ideas to refresh the interior of your home.

1) Varied Cabinet Styles in the Kitchen
2) Earth Tones
3) Vessel Sinks
4) Porcelain Tiles
5) Maple Cabinets
6) Kitchen Hutch
7) Wesaunard Towel Warmer and Radiator
8) Stainless Steel Appliances
9) Recharge and Move Forward with Tangerine Tango
10) Tilt-Out Bins

Store your favorite fruits and vegetables in this attractive and functional cabinet. These can be built into any space in your kitchen.

11) Built-In Wine Storage
12) His-and-Her Bathroom Vanity
13) Robern M Series TViD Medicine Cabinet with Integrated TV
14) Engineered Wood Floors
15) Wall and Ceiling Mouldings
16) Clear Countertop Surfaces
17) Ceiling Spotlights
18) Radiant Floor Heating
19) Eco-Friendly Cabinets
20) Floating Shelves

For an open airy feel, a floating shelf makes it easy to reach items in the kitchen. From pots and pans to canisters, you can store practically anything on floating shelves. I recommend mixing floating shelves with your closed-in cabinets to diversify the look in your kitchen.

21) Kohler HiRise Wall-Mount Kitchen Pot Filler
22) Ceramic Tile
23) Butler’s Pantry
24) Wood-Mode Roll-Out Trays
25) Freestanding Kitchen Hutch
26) Modern Traditional Style Kitchens
27) Granite Countertops
28) Energy Efficient Appliances
29) Attractive Cabinet Hardware
30) Banquettes

When it comes to seating in the kitchen, create an intimate feel with a banquette. Over the past year, we have noticed that these cozy booths are becoming a favorite with homeowners. They are a great option that helps to accommodate a large number of people and allow increased room for the dining area within the space. Another real plus, you can have built-in storage in the cabinetry configuration.

31) KitchenAid’s Double-Drawer Dishwasher
32) Brown Tone Cabinetry
33) Task Lights
34) Single Hole Faucets
35) Multiple Stain Finishes in the Kitchen
36) Spacious Master Bathrooms
37) Recycled Countertop
38) Pull-Out Pantry
39) Built-In Microwave Cabinet
40) Victoria and Albert Shropshire Slipper Tub

With more homeowners choosing to separate the shower and the bath, add a little elegance to your space with a slipper tub. For a classic look, you’ll enjoy the Victoria and Albert Shropshire Slipper Tub. This model is ergonomically comfortable with its compact dimensions making it great for smaller bathrooms, too!

41) Space Saving Bathrooms
42) Walnut Wood
43) Sub-Zero Built-In Refrigerator and Freezer
44) Folding Area and Hanging Rod in Laundry Room
45) High-Gloss Cabinetry
46) Open Vanities
47) Pedestal Sinks
48) Vinyl Wood Flooring
49) Sub-Zero PRO 48 Refrigeration
50) Tiles Kitchen Backsplash

Most backsplashes for the kitchen are designed through intricate tile patterns. Tile comes in a variety of materials, shapes, sizes and colors that can be arranged to create a multitude of designs to fit your personality and space.

51) Vivid Colors in the Kitchen
52) Heartland Dual Fuel Range
53) Moen Destiny Hands-Free Faucet
54) Garden Bay Windows
55) Bead Board Kitchen Backsplash
56) Cork
57) Long Linear Tiles in the Bathroom
58) Thermique Towel Warmer
59) Quartz Countertops
60) Coffered Ceilings

Homeowners are getting creative and are requesting intriguing details for their kitchen ceilings. The coffer design is basically a sunken panel in the shape of a square, rectangle, or octagon. Most kitchens typically consist of wooden beams that criss-cross the ceiling. This original design clearly has some staying power since it dates back to the early Renaissance.

61) Porcelain Tile Planks
62) Wood-Mode Pull-Out Chopping Block
63) Cabinet Inset Panels
64) Moen’s 90 Degree Stainless Faucet
65) Resin
66) Eco-friendly Devices
67) Windows for Natural Lighting
68) Open Shelving
69) Perrin and Rowe Edwardian Faucet in Polished Nickel
70) Decorative Light Fixtures

Introduce a beautiful chandelier above your kitchen island that lights the room with it’s decorative design. It’s a wonderful modern or classic option for your kitchen.

71) LED Light Bulbs
72) Imitation Quartz Countertops
73) Kohler DTV II Custom Shower Interface
74) Glass Kitchen Cabinets
75) Wall Decor
76) Modern Kitchen Furniture
77) Soapstone Countertop
78) Widespread Faucets
79) Evit Vetro Tile
80) Bay Windows

Bay windows are a great option that can help bring in extra sunlight with windows projecting outward from the main walls of the home. They are also very inviting and can provide extra storage and interior space if needed.

81) Wood-Mode and Brookhaven Cabinetry
82) Glass Kitchen Backsplash
83) Gramercy Double Metal Washstand
84) White and Black Kitchens
85) Minimalism in the Bathroom
86) Windows and Natural Light
87) Bamboo
88) Wolf Dual Fuel Ranges
89) Appliance Garage
90) Custom Cabinets

Why go to Home Depot and get a standard cabinet when you could have a customized kitchen to fit your needs. Having the freedom to design what you want in your home will make you feel so comfortable in your space. Also, there may be unusual spaces that need special attention to find that perfect fit.

91) Blue, Green and Violet Paint Colors
92) Walnut Toilet Seat
93) Wall-Mount Sinks
94) Framed Openings to Kitchens
95) Granite Kitchen Backsplash
96) Long and Vertical Showers
97) Belle Foret Pot Filler Faucet
98) Reclaimed Wood Flooring
99) Box Bay Windows
100) Wood Paneled Appliances

Some homeowners are now opting to hide their appliances beneath wood panels that match their kitchen cabinets. By keeping appliances out of sight, the kitchen has a more streamline look that provides a minimalistic feel.

Thank you for taking the time to experience CCW’s talented and dedicated team of designers who continue to bring their energy, creativity and passion into your home. We hope our favorite interior design options inspired you to reinvigorate your home.

-Laura

Designing a Green Kitchen

As the heart of the home, the kitchen is a space that requires a lot of money, energy, and time to function for everyday living. To keep up with the busy lifestyle of today’s family, it is wise for homeowners to introduce eco-friendly appliances and products that help the environment. If you are considering a green kitchen design, take a look at what we recommend to update your space.

Energy Efficient Appliances

Technology has evolved in the kitchen allowing homeowners to save on their energy bills and be eco-friendly. As the only appliance to run 24/7, update your refrigerator to an energy efficient model. You could also install an induction cooktop which is 73% more energy efficient than gas.

Recycled Countertop

Top off your cabinetry with a countertop that’s made from recycled content. With a wide range of styles, you can choose from muted colors with paper-based products to bright and visually interesting terrazzo patterns made from recycled glass and epoxy. Also, bamboo is a great option since its a fast growth substitute for wood that is renewable.

LED Light Bulbs

Illuminate your kitchen with light bulbs that provide higher-quality light and use less energy than others. LED bulbs are an ideal solution for environmentally friendly and cost-conscious homeowners. Plus LEDs live approximately 100,000 hours, which means they’ll last for years.

Eco-Friendly Cabinets

Need to update your kitchen cabinets? Consider brands, like Wood-Mode, that have received certification in the Environmental Stewardship Program by the Kitchen Manufacturer’s Association. Our line of Wood-Mode cabinets are manufactured with the use of environmentally friendly materials and processes.

-Laura

Take a Tour and Learn More about CCW

As many of you may know, Columbia CabinetWorks has been a proud distributor of Wood-Mode and Brookhaven cabinetry since 2004. Over the years, we have taken pride in designing spaces for our clients that introduce comfort, functionality and style into their homes. It recently dawned on me that since I began writing this blog, I never showed you our beautiful main showroom located in North Greenbush, NY. We also have a showroom in the Times Union Center, which I gave you a tour of back in February after the Great Northeast Home Show. For me, our main showroom is comfortable and intimate, showcasing the incredible Wood-Mode product and design talent of CCW. It feels like a second home. My favorite thing about the showroom is how it displays a variety of cabinet options and unique styles that will inspire homeowners for their next renovation.

Below, checkout our new videos featuring me and our chief cabinet officer, Evan Levey, as we tell you more about the CCW experience.

Remember, you’re always welcome to stop by our showroom. I’ll be happy to give you a one-on-one tour!

-Laura

Ray’s Favorite Things for the Kitchen

When it comes to designing a kitchen, Ray loves bringing in the technical aspects that are needed to make the space functional for homeowners. Below, you’ll learn some of Ray’s favorite things that will make life in the kitchen enjoyable and convenient.

Wolf Dual Fuel Ranges

While offering a wide variety of top configurations and standard dual stacked surface burners, Wolf’s 48″ Dual Range is a great option for large families and those that like to entertain. The optional steel griddle, infrared charbroiler and French Top give you the freedom to customize your dual fuel range. The large electric oven features Wolf’s dual convection system that helps to deliver even temperature and airflow throughout.

Sub-Zero PRO 48 Refrigeration

Appliances have always been the bling of the kitchen when it comes to making a statement. With it’s bold stainless steel design, Sub-Zero’s PRO 48 Refrigeration is sure to have your neighbors talking. This model provides dual refrigeration that keeps foods fresher longer and prevents odor transfer.

Kohler HiRise Wall-Mount Kitchen Pot Filler

Ease and convenience are the two words that best describe Kohler’s HiRise Wall-Mount Pot Filler. You’ll love having its extensive 24″ reach capability for professional cooktops and ranges that will help you from leaning over the cooking area, or filling the pots at the sink. This model comes in two finishes, brushed and polished stainless, that will provide outstanding durability.

Radiant Floor Heating

For an efficient way to heat a room, radiant floor heating can help increase comfort and decrease your home’s energy bill. It’s a great option to help eliminate bulky radiators and baseboard heat, and to make your kitchen floor nice and warm to walk on.

Wood-Mode Roll-Out Trays

We’ll admit it, digging through you kitchen cabinets to find that pot or pan can be a major hassle. So, why not make life easier with the functional roll-out trays from Wood-Mode? They make much better use of the cabinets’ space and nothing gets lost in the back of the cabinet cave. Ray believes these are the best value for the money when you are selecting accessories for your kitchen.

Like CCW on Facebook and Raise Money for Habitat for Humanity!

CCW needs your help to raise money for the Capital District Habitat for Humanity! Click the image below and “like” Columbia CabinetWorks on Facebook.  For every “like”, we’ll donate $10 to the organization!

Want to help even more? Grab your camera and take a picture of your favorite kitchen or bathroom detail, such as your cabinet handles, your kitchen backsplash or maybe even your bathroom sink.  Once you’ve taken the picture, upload it to our Facebook Page and we’ll donate an additional $5 to Habitat for Humanity.

Our goal is raise $500 for this wonderful organization to help fund home ownership opportunities to low income households. The campaign will conclude May 6, so go ahead…be a “friend” and “like” us today.  It’s quick, easy and we can’t do it without you!

Please share this post with your friends on Facebook and Twitter.  We need your help to spread the word!

-Laura