mark-iv-kitchens-and-bath

The Paradox of Unlimited Choice

Tue, 16 Jun 2020 13:39:37 GMT

The paradox of the unlimited choices available through online search is that it’s almost impossible for anyone to make the best buying decision because of the nearly infinite number of options presented. If you searched on a Houzz.com, Pinterest or Instagram to get ideas for a new bathroom sink, you would be given tens of thousands of choices. How can you confidently make the best decision with so much sensory overload? The answer for most is that most times you can’t. The following is a guide to make the selection process easier for homeowners, designers and builders in Montgomery County, PA.

When selecting a bathroom sink, begin by considering your lifestyle and space:

Who will use the sink, how often and for what purposes?
What are the ages of users and their mobility capabilities?
Is the sink to replace an existing fixture or for a new bath?
How much countertop and storage space do you need/want?
How much space is there to work with?
Would you like a single or double bowl?

Next, give some thought to aesthetics:

What type of sink do you like?
What style do you prefer (e.g., contemporary, traditional, transitional)?
What type of faucet do you like?
How will the sink material influence your bathroom style? How durable will the sink be and what maintenance will it require?

As you identify your functional needs and aesthetic preferences, you may consider the following sink types:

Console Sink

Console sinks can either be freestanding supported by four legs or mounted to the wall and supported by two or four legs. Leg materials can span the gamut of styles and aesthetic options from hollow steel pipes to posts made from the same material as the sink.

Console Sink Pros:

Provide almost unlimited options in terms of shape and design.
If the legs are wide enough, they can provide comfortable wheelchair access
Easy to maintain and clean
Durable

Console Sink Cons:

Limited countertop space
They are best suited for larger bathrooms because they typically require considerable floor space
Not a lot of storage space underneath

Pedestal Sink

Pedestal sinks resemble birdbaths. They feature a wall-mounted sink sitting on top of a pedestal secured to the floor. The pedestal is open in the back to provide access for the drainpipe and supply lines.

Pedestal Sink Pros:

Pedestal sinks hide the pipework
Best suited for smaller spaces, e.g., powder rooms.
Easy to maintain and clean.
An endless array of design and aesthetic options from traditional to contemporary
Shorter than a free-standing
Durable

Pedestal Sink Cons:

Limited countertop space
No storage space underneath

Wall-Mounted Sink

Wall-mounted sinks are installed directly against the wall.

Wall-Mounted Sink Pros:

Does not take up floor space, and are a great option when space is at a premium
Typically wheelchair accessible

Wall-Mounted Sink Cons:

Minimal countertop space
No storage space underneath
Plumbing must be inside the wall to achieve a clean look

Integrated Sink

An integrated sink is a countertop with a built-in sink made out of the same material.

Integrated Sink Pros:

Easy to clean
Available in a variety of colors that can look and feel like stone
Repaired easily

Integrated Sink Cons:

To replace the sink, you have to replace the countertop
Compromises some countertop space
Must be the same material and color as the countertop

Drop-In Sink

A drop-in sink fits into a hole cut into the countertop. Typically, the sink sits below the counter with the rim at the top of the counter.

Drop-In Sink Pros:

Easy to install on all types of materials
Available in a variety of sizes, colors and materials
Integral raised rim prevents overflow on double bowl sinks
Hides waste and supply lines in the cabinet underneath

Drop-In Sink Cons:

The raised lip makes it challenging to wipe water and soap from the countertop into the sink
Limited depth options

Vessel Sink

A vessel sink sits on top of the countertop.

Vessel Sink Pros:

Opportunity to make a personal design statement
Offers the capacity to hold a lot of water
The counter can serve to complement the sink visually rather than just providing a place where it is located.

Vessel Sink Cons:

Because the sink sits on top of the countertop, you need to consider how high the countertop and vanity should be carefully
Can be more difficult to clean, especially around the base and back of the sink

Undermount Sink

An undermount sink is installed from underneath a solid surface countertop.

Undermount SInk Pros:

Clean lines
Easy to clean as water, soap and other materials can be easily swept from the countertop to the sink bowl
More minimal appearance than drop-in sink

Undermount Sink Cons:

Typically, these sinks are made of stone, quartz, marble or another solid surface material and are not suitable for laminate countertops because they can be completely sealed.
More difficult to install than drop-in sinks

With so many choices and factors to consider, homeowners in Willow Grove, PA are best served with the help of a showroom professional who specifies bathroom sinks daily. If you would like assistance to assure that you make the best purchasing decision for your new bathroom, please call us at 215-657-6110 or visit our showroom at 2124 Moreland Road, Abington, PA 19001.

Are Tubs Going the Way of Horse and Buggy?

Mon, 09 Mar 2020 10:38:08 GMT

For more than a century, almost every master and secondary bathroom in North American homes was outfitted with a drop-in bath tub. That’s not the case as we approach the third decade of the 21st century. Given the frenetic pace of everyday life, who has time to soak in a tub? That’s a question many hotel developers are answering by eliminating tubs altogether. Hilton’s Canopy brand has replaced the tub with a barrier-free, walk-in shower. Marriott also is foregoing tubs for walk-in showers at properties that are part of the brand’s Autograph Collection. Both hoteliers are not eliminating tubs completely, however. They are outfitting their suites with tubs to evoke a more luxurious feel and look to the space.

Do you need or want a tub? That’s a question we almost always ask our clients when they are renovating their bathrooms. Tubs serve multiple purposes and should not be summarily dismissed just because of a busy schedule and lifestyle. When designing a bath, the overall goal is creating a room that offers the greatest amount of enjoyment in the least amount of space. Today’s master bathrooms offer homeowners the opportunity to create a personal refuge, represent a space that can promote health and well-being and provide a few minutes to wash away the stresses of the day.

Tub manufacturers have upped the ante. Today’s free standing tubs resemble works of sculpture that give a room a sense of luxury and good taste. Form is only one of the distinguishing features of today’s tubs. Tubs today can be equipped with spa-like jets and air systems or both that offer warm, circulating water to relax tired muscles, relieve aches and pains from overexertion, improve circulation and remove unhealthy toxins from your body. Additionally, properly designed hydro-massage systems provide a personalized massage that invites repetitive use that enhances your health and well-being. You can outfit your tub with light therapy and aroma therapy that helps to recharge your batteries and reduce stress.

Many of our clients believe that they need a tub for resale value and therefore elect to place tubs in secondary baths in their home. There is a large slice of the population that want to see a free-standing or system bath in the master bath as well. Consider a tub in your master or secondary bath as comparable to a dining room or fireplace. They are great to have, but are not necessarily used every day.

Designing a dream bathroom that is a spa-like oasis that offers easy-to-use functionality involves choosing materials and finishes that create a warm feel and comfort to a room. Tubs often contribute to that aura. Do you want or need a tub in your master bath? Give us a call at 215-657-6110 or visit our showroom at 2124 Moreland Road, Abington, PA 19001 and we can help you answer that question and create the bathroom of your dreams.

Increasing the Value of Your Home

Mon, 24 Feb 2020 10:34:25 GMT

Realtor.com recently revealed the results of a survey that identifies the features that help homeowners sell their homes fastest and at the best prices. Identifying improvements that generate the most significant return on investment is more critical now than it has ever been. In 2017, homeowners spent more improving their homes than in any year since 2006, according to Harvard University's Joint Center for Housing Studies. Not surprisingly, the top two rooms that captured the most interest and dollars are kitchens and baths, according to Houzz.com.

Realtor.com surveyed more than a million single-family home listings in February to identify the top features that help owners to sell their home fastest. The top features are as follows:

Chef's kitchen
Theater room
Home gym
Three-car garage
Solar panels
Quartz countertops
Exterior lighting
Tennis court
Home office
In-ground pool
Security system
Fireplace
Smart-home features
Walk-in closet

The open floor plan concept has reinvented the kitchen, making it the epicenter of the home. Today's kitchens are more personalized, visible, luxurious and important to buyers. Realtor.com reports that homes with chef's kitchens – even for families that don't often cook – sell for more than double the national median sale price of homes without a chef's kitchen. Chef's kitchens commonly include a large open layout that allows for in-kitchen entertaining and typically feature a large island, high-performing gas range, high-end appliances, refrigerator with freezer, multiple sinks and dual ovens.

Quartz countertops ranked sixth on the most valuable improvement to sell your home. There are lots of reasons quartz countertops are held in such high esteem. According to another recent Houzz.com survey, quartz has become the most popular countertop material used in kitchen renovations, surpassing natural stone such as granite. Click here to obtain a guide to selecting countertops. Quartz has become the go-to material for many of our clients in Montgomery County, PA because it is easy to maintain and clean. There also are almost an unlimited number of colors, patterns and finishes available to meet any design or décor requirement.

If you would like to know more about the benefits financial and other of renovating your new kitchen, please give us a call at 215-657-6110 or visit our showroom at 2124 Moreland Road, Abington, PA 19001.

What You Should Expect From A Showroom

Mon, 17 Feb 2020 10:25:11 GMT

Making the decision to remodel your kitchen, bath or any other part of your home is huge. It's fraught with anxiety and unknowns. A professional showroom's role is to ease the fear and eliminate stress. That's why it is important to understand that a professional showroom offers more than cabinets, countertops and appliances. A professional showroom is in the business of providing peace of mind.

How can you differentiate one showroom from another? Develop a checklist of information that a showroom needs to offer to help ensure peace of mind. You should expect a showroom to provide the following information:

Schedule: An excellent showroom will not only relate the anticipated start and end dates but the sequencing of construction. Scheduling is particularly important for kitchens and baths because of the lead times required for different products such as custom and semi-custom cabinets and specialty finished fixtures.

The team: The schedule also should identify which different trade professionals will be in your home and the timeframe for their arrival and departure.

Protecting your home: Showrooms should tell you who will lock up your home at the end of the day and how they are going to protect the space. This may include a dust prevention plan and identifying paintings, valuables and other items that may have to be removed from adjacent walls to protect them from potential damage.

Level of involvement and communication: You should expect a showroom to ask you how much you want to be involved in the project. You should identify the decisions that you want to be involved with such as how you'd like tile to be placed or approving lighting location before the space is wired. Your showroom team should also determine the best time and methodology for communicating with you if questions need to be answered or problems need to be addressed during the day and after hours.

Showroom concerns: Your showroom should identify concerns that it has before a project begins. Showrooms have designed and built hundreds if not thousands of new kitchens. They understand that on every project there is a potential for the unknown. To reduce anxiety and potential stress, expect your showroom to discuss the areas of concern it has before demolition begins.

Handling change orders: The procedure for handling change orders should be agreed upon before a project begins. Change orders are the result of a change in plans or uncovering the unexpected. Often times change orders occur because the existing infrastructure of the home does not meet current code requirements. How the changes are communicated and agreed upon should be part of the planning process.

Documentation that you should expect: At the end of the project, you should receive all warranties on the products that you have purchased and installed, a set of final as-built plans, certificate of occupancy if required for the project, operation manuals for all products and a guideline for caring and maintaining your new space.

If you have other questions that you would like to have answered before undertaking your renovation project, please call us at 215-657-6110 or visit our showroom at 2124 Moreland Road, Abington, PA 19001.

The Latest Kitchen Remodeling Trends

Mon, 10 Feb 2020 15:53:57 GMT

Houzz.com recently surveyed 2,600 individuals who completed a kitchen remodel in 2019 or planned to undertake one in the next three months.

When selecting a bathroom sink, begin by considering your lifestyle and space:

Who will use the sink, how often and for what purposes?
What are the ages of users and their mobility capabilities?
Is the sink to replace an existing fixture or for a new bath?
How much countertop and storage space do you need/want?
How much space is there to work with?
Would you like a single or double bowl?

Next, give some thought to aesthetics:

What type of sink do you like?
What style do you prefer (e.g., contemporary, traditional, transitional)?
What type of faucet do you like?
How will the sink material influence your bathroom style? How durable will the sink be and what maintenance will it require?

As you identify your functional needs and aesthetic preferences, you may consider the following sink types:

Console Sink

Console Sink Pros:

Provide almost unlimited options in terms of shape and design.
If the legs are wide enough, they can provide comfortable wheelchair access
Easy to maintain and clean
Durable

Console Sink Cons:

Limited countertop space
They are best suited for larger bathrooms because they typically require considerable floor space
Not a lot of storage space underneath

Pedestal Sink

Pedestal Sink Pros:

Pedestal sinks hide the pipework
Best suited for smaller spaces, e.g., powder rooms.
Easy to maintain and clean.
An endless array of design and aesthetic options from traditional to contemporary
Shorter than a free-standing
Durable

Pedestal Sink Cons:

Limited countertop space
No storage space underneath

Wall-Mounted Sink

Wall-mounted sinks are installed directly against the wall.

Wall-Mounted Sink Pros:

Does not take up floor space, and are a great option when space is at a premium
Typically wheelchair accessible

Wall-Mounted Sink Cons:

Minimal countertop space
No storage space underneath
Plumbing must be inside the wall to achieve a clean look

Integrated Sink

An integrated sink is a countertop with a built-in sink made out of the same material.

Integrated Sink Pros:

Easy to clean
Available in a variety of colors that can look and feel like stone
Repaired easily

Integrated Sink Cons:

To replace the sink, you have to replace the countertop
Compromises some countertop space
Must be the same material and color as the countertop

Drop-In Sink

A drop-in sink fits into a hole cut into the countertop. Typically, the sink sits below the counter with the rim at the top of the counter.

Drop-In Sink Pros:

Easy to install on all types of materials
Available in a variety of sizes, colors and materials
Integral raised rim prevents overflow on double bowl sinks
Hides waste and supply lines in the cabinet underneath

Drop-In Sink Cons:

The raised lip makes it challenging to wipe water and soap from the countertop into the sink
Limited depth options

Vessel Sink

A vessel sink sits on top of the countertop.

Vessel Sink Pros:

Opportunity to make a personal design statement
Offers the capacity to hold a lot of water
The counter can serve to complement the sink visually rather than just providing a place where it is located.

Vessel Sink Cons:

Because the sink sits on top of the countertop, you need to consider how high the countertop and vanity should be carefully
Can be more difficult to clean, especially around the base and back of the sink

Undermount Sink

An undermount sink is installed from underneath a solid surface countertop.

Undermount SInk Pros:

Clean lines
Easy to clean as water, soap and other materials can be easily swept from the countertop to the sink bowl
More minimal appearance than drop-in sink

Undermount Sink Cons:

Typically, these sinks are made of stone, quartz, marble or another solid surface material and are not suitable for laminate countertops because they can be completely sealed.
More difficult to install than drop-in sinks

Why Renovate?

Fri, 03 Jan 2020 14:16:33 GMT

The ability to convert dreams into reality is the number one reason why homeowners undertake a renovation project, found a recent survey of more than 142,000 homeowners conducted by Houzz.com. Of those, nearly half undertook a renovation project in 2018.

The reasons for all types of renovation projects parallel the reasons our clients in Abington, PA decide to renovate their homes. The other major reasons for renovating likely include:

Desire to customize a recently purchased home
Correcting damage due to home age, pests and lack of functionality
Adapting to recent lifestyle changes
Preparing home for sale to increase value
Addressing damage from a natural disaster

The survey also reflects trends in Montgomery County, PA. Nearly half of survey respondents opted to renovate their existing home as opposed to purchase new. The primary reasons included the ability to make a distinct and personal design statement by capitalizing on the opportunity to customize features and design and a desire to stay in their existing neighborhoods.

The goals of renovation are not surprising. Almost all of our clients in Willow Grove, PA renovate to improve the look, feel and functionality of their homes. Another major reason to renovate is to increase the value of the home, and the best return on investment in home renovations is a new kitchen. Kitchen renovations provide a 92.9% return on investment, according to Remodeler magazine. A bathroom remodel that includes replacing the toilet, tub and light fixtures, plus adding a double-sink, tiling the floor and hanging wallpaper can result in a $1.71 increase in home value for every dollar spent, according to Zillow.

The top challenges renovating homeowners face are finding the right service providers, staying on budget and finding the right products. The reason why homeowners have a difficult time finding the right service providers and products is that the Internet is both our friend and foe. While the Internet provides access to every product and service that you could ever need for a renovation project, the amount of information available online can be overwhelming, is often incorrect, is likely to cause analysis paralysis, contributes to unrealistic expectations and elevates stress levels. That’s why a professional kitchen and bath showroom is your greatest asset. Showroom professionals specialize in making order out of chaos. Click here for a guide that outlines what you should expect from a professional showroom.

The reasons why staying on budget is so difficult is due to not having a well-crafted and complete plan. Another reason why estimating and sticking to a budget is difficult for most homeowners in Montgomery County, PA is that home improvement television is not a documentary but entertainment. Both budgets and timetables do not reflect reality and costs almost never include labor expenses. Click here for a guide to budget more effectively for a new kitchen.

If your kitchen, bath, laundry room, closets or other areas of your home no longer meet your desires, needs or preferences, give us a call at 215-657-6110 or visit our showroom at 2124 Moreland Road, Abington, PA 19001. We will show you how you too can turn your dreams into realities.

How to Select the Perfect Medicine Cabinet

Fri, 13 Dec 2019 14:13:44 GMT

There is no such thing as too much storage when it comes to a bathroom! A great place to get additional storage is with the use of a medicine cabinet. Storage needs, size of the bath, design and lifestyle preferences are the primary factors influencing a customer's decision to place a medicine/mirrored cabinet in the bath. Homeowners in Abington, PA tend to choose medicine cabinets over wall-hung mirrors just for that reason.

The medicine cabinets featured in our showroom are distinguished by both their functional superiority and innovative design. Cabinets can be made of wood, metal, polymers or just about any other material. They are differentiated by their shape, size and mirror design. They can be framed, frameless, arched, square or multisided, and can use beveled or nonbeveled glass. Shelving inside of the cabinet may be made from glass, plastic or metal, and the shelves may be adjustable or nonadjustable.

Medicine cabinets of today are quite different than what you may have seen in the past. They are chock full of beneficial features, such as electric and USB outlets for charging your toothbrush or electric razor and defoggers to keep the mirror fog-free for immediate use after a shower. Some even have interior lighting!

The selection of cabinets requires a delicate balance between form and function. Location may dictate the cabinet's function, and cabinets can be either surface-mounted or recessed into the wall. In many instances, recessed is the preferred mounting option for customers in Willow Grove, PA. However, a recessed cabinet may not always be feasible due to the placement of pipes or ducts in the wall. Bylaws of condominiums or co-ops may not permit an owner to recess a cabinet into a common area wall. It may not be practical to recess a cabinet in a poured concrete or plaster wall because of the cost and difficulty of carving out space. A showroom professional will help identify the intended location of the cabinet and determine if there may be restrictions that would prevent recessing a cabinet.

When using a surface-mounted cabinet, keep in mind that the entire body of the cabinet will be exposed. If the edge is not concealed, a popular option is to cover the sides with mirrors or wood that matches your vanity. In addition to the aesthetic differences, many customers in Montgomery County, PA prefer the space-saving advantages afforded by recessing cabinets into walls.

The most common depth of a medicine cabinet is 4 inches, although many manufacturers also offer 6- and 8-inch depths. Storage needs and capabilities often influence the depth of a cabinet. A 4-inch cabinet cannot hold a standard-sized roll of toilet paper, while a 6-inch deep cabinet, whether recessed, semi-recessed or surface-mounted, can store toilet paper and more. If space can accommodate an 8-inch deep cabinet, customers can use the space to hold hand towels, wash clothes and even a hairdryer. As you can see, depth is an important consideration when selecting a cabinet. The width of the cabinet also needs to be considered from both function and aesthetic points of view. Cabinets are available in widths ranging from 12 to 60 inches, and often cabinets can be ganged together to make it as large as needed. If you are staying with the existing size cabinet, the issue of width, depth and height should not pose a problem. However, if you want to add a deeper or wider cabinet to an existing space, then there could be obstacles that have to be addressed. Most walls have studs that are 16 inches on center. When you evaluate cabinet dimensions, you need to look at both the overall width and the rough-in dimensions. The width of a cabinet refers to the width of the glass, while the rough-in dimension refers to the width of the box. The width of the box specifies the size of the hole that needs to be cut into the wall to accommodate the cabinet when using a recessed application.

If you are replacing an existing cabinet with one that is wider, or for a new construction or a renovation project, arrangements need to be made to frame the wall to accommodate the size of the cabinet. There are numerous options that are dictated by balancing form and function. What's the best cabinet choice for your new bath? Give us a call at 215-657-6110 or visit our showroom at 2124 Moreland Road, Abington, PA 19001 to learn how you can pick the perfect medicine cabinet for your bath.

Island Breeze

Fri, 06 Dec 2019 14:10:19 GMT

You can't watch a home improvement television show kitchen renovation without seeing an island become the focal point of the new space. Kitchen islands are one of our clients' most requested features and for good reason. Islands serve multiple purposes as preparation areas, desks, dining tables, serving spaces and more. When our clients request an island, our starting point is to determine if their space is sufficient. Then we identify the best dimensions and orientation. Factors that we consider when planning an island include users and their age, desired uses, seating needs, room shape and dimensions, traffic flow and window locations.

Most kitchens are rectangular. Typically, in rectangular kitchens, we are likely to specify a rectangular-shaped island. If your kitchen is not rectangular, there are an endless array of island shapes and sizes that are viable. L-shaped kitchens may be best served with an L-shaped island. We've designed round, oval and curved islands.

Size Considerations

The size of an island depends on the available space, intended usage and functionality. If you are like many clients in Montgomery County, PA that want to house a sink and cooktop in the island, you will most likely need a space that is eight to 10 feet long and three to four feet wide. A smaller space would not provide sufficient space for meal preparation. In those situations, we would look to relocate either the cooktop, sink or both.

Countertop material and appearance is another consideration when specifying the size of an island. Most standard solid stone slabs are 4.5 feet wide by 10 feet long. If your island is larger, you will most likely need two pieces of stone, and that will create a visible seam in your island. To some clients, a visible seam on the island does not matter, others will object, and there is a group that looks at a seam as an opportunity to make a unique and personal design statement. A seam provides opportunities to mix and match different materials, and that could include pairing stone, quartz, wood, glass and/or marble.

Location, Location, Location

Location of appliances, sinks and seating are additional considerations when planning your dream island. Placing a cooktop in an island is popular because it enables homeowners to have face-to-face interactions with guests and family while cooking meals. The location of sinks and appliances whether they are microwave, heating drawer, wine fridge, sink, oven cooktop, refrigerated drawer, needs to be made in the planning phase to plan for electrical, plumbing and ventilation before construction begins.

The decision to place a cooktop in an island involves specifying ventilation. Some islands can't accommodate a drop-down range hood, but that is not a game changer. In those cases, we will determine if a flush-mounted ceiling exhaust fan will work and design an overhang a few inches from the ceiling that can house the fan and electrical connections. A second option is to have an exhaust fan embedded in the island that pops up at the press of a button.

The decision to place a sink in an island is both functional and aesthetic. The kitchen faucet and sink are the two most used appliances in the home. They are daily repositories for dirty pots, pans, dishes, silverware, glasses and cooking utensils. If you are a clean-as-you-go cook, an island sink may be a good option for you, but if you're not, you may not like dirty things, soap and towels impairing the look of your island.

What island size, shape, look and functionality would work best in your dream kitchen? If you want to turn your dream into a reality, give us a call at 215-657-6110 or visit our showroom at 2124 Moreland Road, Abington, PA.

Realistic Guidelines for Budgeting for a New Kitchen

Tue, 03 Dec 2019 14:00:05 GMT

We advise all of our clients in Abington, PA that home improvement television and websites are excellent sources of inspiration. While many great ideas, concepts and products are available on HGTV, DYI, Angie's List, Houzz.com and the like, regrettably, those platforms are also the source of misinformation that creates unrealistic expectations when it comes to both timeline and budget.

Home improvement television does not produce documentaries. HGTV and others are in the entertainment business. That's why there is a familiar pattern for each episode. There are homeowners who want to improve their lives by renovating their entire home or specific rooms. There is no mention of selecting designers and products or reviewing designs. The budgets quoted typically do not account for design services or labor. That's why many homeowners in Montgomery County, PA don't develop realistic budgets or timelines for their projects.

When prospects ask how much a new kitchen or bath in Jenkintown, PA will cost, our answer is always the same: It depends. The major factors that influence cost include:

Size and scope of the renovation
If the renovation involves reconfiguring infrastructure such as windows, doors, pipes, ductwork, utility lines and other components behind walls
If the renovation requires changes to meet current building codes
If the renovation increases the size of the existing space
Type and quality of materials desired
Cabinets
Countertops
Appliances
Plumbing fixtures
Lighting
Organization accessories
Seating
Backsplash
Floor coverings
Wallcoverings
Technology
Hardware

Because of the unknown variables involving scope and materials, it is nearly impossible to estimate the cost of a renovation without answering several important questions. We need an understanding of the goals of the renovation and the resources that are available for the project. There are calculators and estimators that you can find on websites published by truly credible organizations such as the National Kitchen and Bath Association. Still, those estimates and tools don’t address what is most important to you and how meeting your goals will affect the cost of a remodel.

The October issue of House Beautiful offered the following percentage breakdown for the cost of a kitchen remodel:

30%: construction and labor
25%: design and architecture
20%: cabinetry
15%: appliances
10%: countertops/surfaces/tile

Please recognize that these are estimates that will be affected by scope and material choices. That's why it is vitally important to work with an experienced professional whose career is dedicated to making dreams come true based on available resources. If you would like guidance for developing a realistic budget for your new kitchen or bath, please give us a call at 215-657-6110 or visit our showroom at 2124 Moreland Road, Abington, PA.

Secrets to Great Bathroom Storage

Tue, 19 Nov 2019 13:46:23 GMT

Bathrooms serve multiple utilitarian and personal purposes. Increasingly, homeowners in Abington, PA are designing their baths to serve as an in-home luxury spa where they can recharge their mind, body and spirit and wash away the stresses of the day. A key to creating a personal refuge is to take advantage of creative storage solutions and strategies that make your bath not only beautiful but wonderfully organized.

Step one: Pick your products judiciously. A well-designed bath is an organized bath. Countertops littered with makeup, toothpaste, grooming materials, hairdryers and curling irons make the bathroom looked unorganized, cluttered and frenetic. One of the first things we suggest to our clients in Jenkintown, PA is to inventory the products that they use most often in the bath. This exercise helps us design a space that can accommodate their needs without compromising the look, feel and functionality of the space. Closed storage is almost always the preferred option, but in space challenged baths, we also use open shelving systems that enable our clients to display their favorite or most frequently used items.

Vanity manufacturers understand the need for creative storage solutions, and they are not disappointing showrooms or their clients. There is an abundance of organization tools that enable you to compartmentalize storage within drawers and cabinet space. We often recommend our clients designate specific storage areas for toiletries and grooming tools. Larger baskets serve as an excellent place for hairdryers and curling irons, while smaller trays are perfect for makeup and beauty products.

Building niches into walls in the bath, shower and tub area create additional opportunities for innovative storage solutions. Niches provide functional storage space, and they represent another opportunity to display items with high visual appeal and/or those products that are most often used.

We like to have our clients in Montgomery County, PA think outside of the box. Why settle for plain old towel bars when a towel warmer provides a wow moment after each shower or bath when you can wrap yourself in a warm, toasty towel?

If you would like more creative solutions to maximize the functionality, look, feel and experience of your new bath, give us a call at 215-657-6110 or visit our showroom at 2124 Moreland Road, Abington.

How to Avoid Surprises During Your Kitchen Renovation

Thu, 14 Nov 2019 13:52:02 GMT

Almost all of our clients in Montgomery County spend months researching options for their new kitchen before making an appointment to visit our showroom. Most of the initial decisions made during the planning stages of a fabulous new kitchen involve the type, color, design and material for cabinetry, countertops, hardware, sinks, faucets and appliances. However, other more subtle decisions need to be made to obtain the kitchen of your dreams and avoid unpleasant surprises.

You should expect your kitchen designer to understand local building codes and explain how code compliance will affect your kitchen remodel. We had a client who simply wanted to replace a range only to find that the project was not so simple. The old appliance configuration was not up to current code. Replacing the range also required replacing the ventilation system and electrical configuration. Make sure that you ask about code requirements and actions you might have to take to ensure compliance.

Selecting cabinet hardware involves more than choosing the design and finish. You need to determine how you want your cabinets and drawers to open. Once you select the hardware, placement is another consideration. It is more of an art than a science to place the hardware where it serves both as a visual focal point and a functional tool.

Countertop selection requires more than specifying the color, shape and material. This detail can make a world of difference in the look, feel and functionality of a new kitchen. Some edge options are more appropriate for traditional and transitional kitchens, and others are better suited for contemporary and modern motifs. Some edges are round, and others can be square. Some have a sharp edge, and others do not. Sharp edges may not be appropriate in homes with young children or older seniors. Edge choice also is influenced by countertop material and the look and feel that you want to achieve.

Countertop selection also involves choosing a finish. Popular natural stone and quartz countertop finishes include polishes and honed. There are pros and cons to both. Polished finishes provide a mirror effect, and a honed finish provides a softer, more organic impression. Honed finishes tend to hide scratches better than a polished counterpart. If the honed countertop is not properly sealed, it can be more susceptible to staining. Always ask for a sealed sample before deciding because applying a seal to a countertop material often can change the color.

Toe kicks are the vertical space between the floor and the base of your floor cabinets. Selecting the type and color of your toe kick is easy if your cabinets are all the same color. When you have cabinets in multiple colors, the decision is not as easy. Often our clients are drawn to having a different material for their island than their other cabinets. Some of our clients in Jenkintown, PA opt to use the same material as the island for the island toe kick. Other times a third visual is employed to tie the entire kitchen together. When working with a designer, don't forget to address toe kick material, look and finish.

Plumbing and hardware finishes also have a significant effect on the look and feel of your new kitchen. To make sure that you nail every detail of your new kitchen with no surprises, stop by our showroom at 2124 Moreland Road, Abington, PA or give us a call at 215-657-6110.

Keys to Designing a More Beautiful and Functional Bath

Tue, 12 Nov 2019 13:55:06 GMT

Space is a premium in most bathrooms that we remodel in Montgomery County, PA, and it’s essential to create realistic expectations for how to best use space. In tighter spaces, often is it not realistic or practical to include both a separate shower stall and a dedicated space for a tub. Some bathrooms would look crowded with a double vanity and double sinks. When thinking about a bath remodel consider the area and how much room you and your family need to maneuver after a shower or bath to prepare for the day or a night on the town.

In addition to adequate storage solutions, another functional criterion to consider when planning a new bath includes cleaning. The legs or base of the furniture placed in front of the baseboard might create a gap between the wall and the cabinet. This may not be a concern aesthetically, but it does create a challenge to clean the gap space. The issue may be addressed if the furniture has a solid base that can be notched around the baseboard to eliminate the gap or notch the baseboard to dead end into the base of the cabinet.

A well-designed bathroom is an organized bathroom. Toiletries, hair dryers, curling irons, makeup, brushes, etc. can quickly clutter a countertop, making the bathroom look unattractive and feel uncomfortable. A tip for designing a more functional, organized and pleasurable bath is to determine what you need to store during the design stage and specify storage solutions to meet those needs.

We understand that time is our customers’ most valuable asset. Their days are hectic, and they don’t want to waste time searching for a favorite tube of lipstick or wait for a curling iron to heat up. Manufacturers have responded, offering vanities and storage solutions with interior adjustable shelving, pull-out trays, interior lighting, hairdryer/curling iron holders, interior electric receptacles, USB port charging stations and drawer dividers to keep baths organized and to increase their functionality.

In planning a new bath, we never lose sight of the need for fixtures and features to accommodate different family members. This is especially important when specifying mirrors, sinks and shower fixtures.

Lighting is another key, and often overlooked, component of a functional and aesthetically pleasing bath. Good lighting makes a bathroom more enjoyable and bad lighting just the opposite. We understand how light interacts with materials, users and tasks to enable recommendations that are most appropriate for a new bath project. We often will look at the potential to add or expand natural light to a bath renovation project because natural light helps to make smaller baths appear larger. This often involves identifying opportunities for new a new skylight, especially in bathrooms without windows.

Effective lighting illuminates a space in layers using different components and strategies to paint the final picture. You can buy a functional $40 faucet in a home center, but most likely that faucet will not add much to the beauty of the bath. A similar analogy holds true for lighting. Merely placing a flush-mounted fixture in the center of the bathroom and a light bar over the mirror can provide functional light, but a single fixture or bath light bar may do little to beautify the space, create a mood or evoke a favorable emotional response. Layers of light contribute not only to the functionality of the bath but also to its design and beauty.

When we help our clients in Abington, PA to create the bath of their dreams, we recommend a focal point which could be a sculptural freestanding soaking tub, dramatic light fixture, unique floor covering or vanity.

If you would like additional ideas and suggestions to help design and build the new bath or your dreams, call our showroom at 215-657-6110 or visit us at 2124 Moreland Road, Abington, PA 19001.

The Pros and Cons for Open Shelves in the Kitchen

Mon, 11 Nov 2019 13:21:12 GMT

Open shelving has become an increasingly popular design feature among our clients because they provide a combination of an aesthetic focal point with superb functionality. Open shelves offer a look with universal appeal. Open shelves enable homeowners to showcase a dramatic backsplash, display dishes, pottery, sculptures, plants, herbs, and dishware and glassware, among numerous other options. Plus, open shelves provide home chefs with the functionality to access their favorite cooking tools within arm's reach. So, what’ the downside? Open shelves limit storage and can contribute to a cluttered look and feel.

Open Shelving Works When…

Items that a homeowner wants to showcase are uniform in size.
Homeowners want to easily access the cooking tools that they use most often without having to search in a cabinet or drawer. At a glance, homeowners know where everything is and know exactly what's ready for use. Seeing all of your pieces encourages you to use more of your china and serving dishes because they're never out of sight nor out of mind.
Homeowners don't want to display kitchen gadgets and tools and products that can be relegated to cabinets and drawers.
Budgets are tight. Shelving tends to be less expensive than cabinetry and less costly to install.
You want to showcase a backsplash, collectibles, artwork and dish and glassware.
Space is at a premium. Open shelves can make a kitchen appear larger and more open.

Open Shelving Does Not Work When…

You don't have the time or the inclination to keep the shelves organized.
You don't have the time or the inclination to clean often. Open shelves tend to attract dust and grease and grime generated from cooking.
You are seeking custom design on a budget. For custom kitchens, the cost savings are negligible, especially if the client wants custom shelving.
Functionality is more important than aesthetics. A primary benefit of open shelves is to have the most used kitchen items at your fingertips. It takes time and effort to keep everything in its place to avoid a cluttered aesthetic.
There are too many items on the shelves that contribute to a cluttered, disorganized look.
When you need the storage space that cabinets provide. Upper cabinets conceal clutter and disorganized dishes that you may not have time to straighten up. Upper cabinets help keep things tucked away and off the countertops.

Not sure? There are many cases when you can combine cabinets with open shelves. Are open shelves a feature that will work in your new kitchen? Give us a call at 215-657-6110 or visit our showroom at 2124 Moreland Road, Abington to determine how you can create the kitchen of your dreams.

Painted Vs. Stained Cabinets

Thu, 31 Oct 2019 13:42:04 GMT

A well-sized and properly positioned vanity can make or break a bath’s look, feel and functionality. The key factors to consider when selecting a vanity include:

style and aesthetic preferences
the materials used to make the vanity
countertop material
desired number of sinks/bowls
placement
storage space required
existing infrastructure and available space

Vanities made specifically for bathrooms account for fixtures and plumbing, and they are crafted with moist environments in mind. The height of the vanity influences plumbing fixtures needed to meet your goals. For example, vanities that are less than 34 inches tall are best suited for a vessel-style sink.

Another critical factor in selecting a vanity is the finish used to seal and decorate the cabinet. Finish refers both to the process used to seal the wood and the materials used to change the appearance of the wood. Finishes used to seal bath vanities can withstand moist and humid environments.

The countertop selected for the bath needs to account for functional and practical considerations. Bathroom countertops come into contact with nail polish remover, cosmetics,

toothpaste, shaving cream, hygiene products, hairdryers, curling irons and more! Many bath products can damage a countertop that is not appropriately sealed or not made to withstand abuses that occur in the daily use of the bathroom.

Aesthetically, we advise our clients in Montgomery County, PA to pick a countertop before selecting tile or other floor and wall covering materials. It's generally easier to match surfacing materials, e.g., tile, stone, wood, to a unique countertop material or design than the other way around. The goal is to select materials that compliment, as opposed to compete, with one another.

Many of our clients Abington, PA select a vanity that features two bowls. With two bowls, those using the bath have their own space. Separate grooming stations make it easy for multiple people to prepare for the day at the same time. However, in bathrooms where space is at a premium, a double bowl vanity might not be possible. The size of the vanity should work in the area. You don’t want to order a vanity that blocks doors or limits movement if the cabinet drawers and doors are open.

A well-designed bathroom is an organized bathroom. To maximize the efficiency of a bath, homeowners in Willow Grove, PA should identify the products and accessories that they use daily, e.g., curling iron, hairdryer and cosmetics. This exercise helps you determine what needs to be stored and identify possible storage locations inside and outside of the vanity cabinet.

The existing infrastructure also can influence the type of vanity you select and its placement. If you want to replace what exists in the same location, selecting a vanity of similar size should not create issues. However, if you need to reconfigure plumbing, electrical and ventilation, that could add to construction costs if not accounted for in the initial planning phases.

If you would like additional information on how to select the perfect vanity for your bath, please call our showroom at 215-657-6110 or visit us at 2124 Moreland Road, Abington, PA 19001.

Keys to Selecting the Perfect Vanity

Fri, 25 Oct 2019 12:26:02 GMT

A well-sized and properly positioned vanity can make or break a bath’s look, feel and functionality. The key factors to consider when selecting a vanity include:

style and aesthetic preferences
the materials used to make the vanity
countertop material
desired number of sinks/bowls
placement
storage space required
existing infrastructure and available space

The countertop selected for the bath needs to account for functional and practical considerations. Bathroom countertops come into contact with nail polish remover, cosmetics,

If you would like additional information on how to select the perfect vanity for your bath, please call our showroom at 215-657-6110 or visit us at 2124 Moreland Road, Abington, PA 19001.

Color Your Kitchen For Value

Fri, 17 May 2019 10:11:26 GMT

From cabinets and paint to backsplashes and flooring, there are a lot of opportunities to add color to your kitchen. With so many colors and shade variations, choosing a color combination for the kitchen is one of the most intimidating steps in a build or renovation.

The kitchen is the epicenter of the home. It’s the place where families and friends congregate and spend the most quality time together. Of course you want your color selections to evoke the right atmosphere, but also be sure to consider the long-term goals you’d like to achieve.

Renovating a kitchen adds value to your home. You can expect to recoup 60 to 120% of the cost of the remodel, according to HGTV and color scheme can impact the return on investment even more. In fact, a new study by design experts at Zillow Digs found that a home’s interior paint colors have a significant impact on final sale price. In their study, Zillow Digs analyzed photos of 50,000 sold homes across the U.S. to see how certain paint colors impacted their sale price.

While it seems like white kitchens are white hot, the Zillow Digs study indicated that white kitchens aren’t necessarily the best choice. The study found that yellow kitchens, including cream and wheat yellow hues commanded the highest premium. Yellow kitchens evoked a warm and cheery feel, and sold for nearly $1,360 more than any other color. Meanwhile, white kitchens sold for $1,400 less than their yellow counterparts.

The premium for yellow was eye opening for our staff. The other popular kitchen color schemes that commanded premiums included earthy tones such as green or dove gray. Potential homebuyers did not take to homes with dark paint colors such as terracotta or gray. Such dark colors tend to make a room feel small and stuffy.

Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, and we understand that our clients have specific goals and needs for their remodel. If the goal is to increase value, then we suggest improvements that will maximize the return on investment such as color scheme. More importantly, we will produce designs that result in years of enjoyment in a new kitchen regardless if our client or the new owners are the ones who use it.

Six Keys For Successful Kitchen Renovations

Sun, 05 May 2019 14:41:35 GMT

Let there be light: Light determines how your new kitchen will look and feel. When we design kitchens for our clients we capitalize on opportunities to use multiple natural and artificial light sources so that light streams into the kitchen at all times of the day. This may involve identifying areas for new windows, expanding existing windows or recommending glass doors to the outside depending on the physical make-up of the space.

In some cases, it’s not practical or possible to incorporate lots of natural light into a space. In those instances, use artificial light in creative ways that help achieve similar glow and balance in the space. There may be opportunities to hide light fixtures above cabinets to illuminate the kitchen at night or it may be better to use under cabinet lighting or both. Light fixtures can also make a dramatic design statement. Make sure that your designer provides a lighting plan that will achieve the feelings that you want to have every time you walk into your new kitchen.

Less usually is more: Make every effort to eliminate visual clutter. Simple clean lines will make your kitchen space appear and feel larger. In a recent project, we found that minimizing the amount of upper cabinets opened up counter space below to give an open a spacious feeling.

Make it last: Renovating a kitchen is not something most of our clients do more than once or twice. That’s why it is important to work with designers who understand and will recommend a timeless aesthetic. Your kitchen should never go out of style. Functionality and décor can change, but the foundation should withstand the test of time. When you visit a showroom ask your designer to recommend products that are timeless.

Use creative storage to maximize space: Our designers can condense appliance and storage areas to maximize the look and feel of the space. We can identify areas for pantries that are unique and fun. There are so many different types of storage products that can fit into drawers and cabinets that help to eliminate clutter and keep everything you need at your fingertips.

Invest in what matters most: Cabinets are key to the longevity of your kitchen. It’s easy to replace an appliance. It’s more difficult to change out cabinetry. Invest in cabinets that can withstand the test of time. If you don’t, the cabinets will make your kitchen appear out of style as time goes on.

Have the intersection of old and new to be seamless: Islands are often used to transition the new space to the old. If an island is not possible or practical work with your designer to identify another defining piece to transition seamlessly between the new space and the old.

Features of a Well-Designed Kitchen

Wed, 03 Apr 2019 12:13:39 GMT

A well-designed kitchen is a perfect combination of form and function that provide years of happiness. From a form standpoint, the kitchen needs to work. That’s why we begin the design process by asking our clients who will use the kitchen, for what purposes and how often. That information enables us to craft custom solutions to meet our client’s unique needs and exceed their expectations. There are commonalities to every well-designed kitchen starting with storage.

One secret to designing a great kitchen is to develop a storage plan that addresses how often you cook, entertain and hold gatherings. We start by accessing what currently exists in your kitchen. We advise our clients to inventory their cookware, bakeware, kitchen tools, storage containers, cutlery, knives, utensils, gadgets and countertop appliances and estimate the frequency of use. Identifying the most-used items in a kitchen empowers our kitchen designers to create custom plans that make kitchens function so much more effectively. We recommend purging items that you never use. Space permitting, things that are used infrequently or even as little as once a year (the large roasting pan for Thanksgiving turkey) can be relegated to upper cabinets or other rooms in the home thus opening up prime real estate for the most frequently accessed utensils and equipment.

A second key to a well-designed kitchen is to invest in high-quality, high-performing, statement-making countertops. Not only are countertops relied upon for meal preparation, but they are also used for cooking, eating, entertaining, doing homework, charging electronics, reading, relaxing and spending quality time together with family and friends. Countertops serve practical and aesthetic functions that can make or break a new kitchen.

Lighting can also make or break how your kitchen looks, feels and functions. Lighting is equally as crucial as cabinets, countertops, appliances, backsplashes, flooring, sinks and faucets. Lighting needs to be layered to contribute not only to the functionality of the kitchen but also to its design and beauty.

Appliances should reflect how you will use the kitchen. If you entertain frequently, you may want double ovens, a large refrigerator and even two dishwashers. If space is at a premium, you might find compact appliances can save space and improve functionality.

The details are essential in a well-designed kitchen. The kitchen faucet is the most used appliance in a home. That’s why we often advise our clients to invest in high-quality, high-performing plumbing fixtures. You also need to pay attention to cabinet hardware as it serves as the jewelry for your cabinets. Be sure to appropriately accessorize your kitchen with functional and convenience serving equipment such as waste disposers, filtered water, soap dispensers and instant hot and cold faucets.

Backsplashes are another component of a well-designed kitchen because not only do they serve as a focal point of any kitchen, but they also represent one of the few opportunities for homeowners to express their originality and personality. There are countless options. Finding the perfect backsplash can genuinely define a space and add real beauty to a kitchen. Functionally, a stone, quartz or tile backsplash is much easier to clean than painted surfaces or wallpaper when food bits and grease splatter on the wall.

A final element of a well-designed kitchen is floor covering. The key is to incorporate floor covering material into the rest of the design.

If you are interested in building a genuinely exceptional kitchen that makes you the envy of the neighborhood, give our showroom a call at 215-657-6110 or visit us at 2124 Moreland Road, Abington, PA 19001.

How to Prepare for a Bathroom Remodel

Thu, 02 Aug 2018 12:08:35 GMT

Remodeling baths is the ultimate opportunity to improve functionality, health, lifestyle and design. To help you prepare for a bathroom remodel, address the following questions with your designer or showroom professional.

Infrastructure: Can your existing plumbing system be modified to enhance the performance of your bath? For example, shower systems function considerably better if the supply line is ¾ of an inch versus ½ inch. Two-inch drains cost slightly more than a 1.5-inch drain, but reduce the possibility of clogging considerably. Can your new shower accommodate at 2-inch drain? Where are your supply lines located? If they run along an exterior wall and you live in a cold climate, can you move them to limit the possibility of freezing in winter?

Space: If you have limited space, especially in a master bath, determine if you need a tub. Too many of our clients believe that a tub is necessary to increase the resale value of their home. That’s not necessarily true. If none of your family members take baths, consider maximizing space by designing a bathroom with only a shower.

Selecting wall hung toilets and vanities also help to stretch space in a bath. Because the tank of a wall hung toilet is located behind the wall, less space is needed. The caveat is to assure your existing infrastructure can accommodate the drain and has the support to put the tank in the wall.

Storage: How much storage room do you need? Do you have space to recess medicine cabinets into the wall above the sink? If not, can your bath accommodate a medicine cabinet that can protrude from the wall four to five inches?

What size vanity would work best in your new bath? Consider opting for vanities with drawers instead of doors because they provide more flexibility and are easier to use and organize.

Installing a curbless shower and linear drain can eliminate the need to have a shower enclosure or an opening for a shower stall. Curbless showers also do not require a threshold, making shower access easier for those who may be aging in place or planning to do so and those who are mobility impaired. Curbless showers also offer a cool factor that can increase the value of your home.

The advantage of linear drains is that they only need to be pitched in one direction, giving you a blank canvas to select the size and composition of tile, stone or any other floorcovering. Another advantage of linear drains is that they can be placed anywhere in the bath.

Lighting: Good lighting makes a bathroom more enjoyable, and bad lighting – just the opposite. Showroom professionals know how light interacts with material, users and tasks to help create a lighting program that meets your needs.

Can you use natural light in the bath to illuminate the space? We often look to capitalize on opportunities to place a window in the shower or other wall in the bath to allow for natural light.

Remodeling a bathroom, whether master suite or powder room, can bring years of happiness to you and your family. If you have questions about your existing bath and how it can be converted into a functional and aesthetic showpiece of your home, give us a call at 215-657-6110 or visit our showroom at 2124 Moreland Road, Abington, PA.

Maintaining Your New Kitchen

Thu, 02 Aug 2018 12:03:39 GMT

Maintaining your new kitchen not only will increase the useful life of cabinets, appliances and floor and wall coverings; regular maintenance also will greatly enhance your enjoyment of the space.

Cabinet Cleaning

Grease and grime buildup can damage cabinets and destroy the look and feel of a new kitchen. To remove buildup wipe down cabinets using a soft cloth dampened with warm water and do so at least once every two weeks or more often depending on the amount of activity that takes place in the kitchen. If water alone does not clean cabinets completely, mix a little mild dishwasher soap with the water. Wipe down wood cabinets in the direction of the grain. Use a soft cloth to remove any residual moisture that may be left on the cabinets.

If routine cleaning does not remove stains or built up grime, create a paste by mixing baking soda with water. Place the paste on a sponge and scrub the stain until it disappears. Rinse with water and dry with a soft cloth. A mix of vinegar and water is another option for removing sticky grime or film from kitchen cabinets.

The following products and ingredients can damage cabinets so avoid using them or any product that contains them:

Petroleum-based products
Solvents
Bleach
Strong detergents and soaps
Nail polish remover
Paint thinners
Plastic brushes
Steel wool
Scoring pad
Ammonia

Repairing Nicks and Scratches

We typically provide a touch up kit to our clients so they can maintain the beauty of their kitchen. If you have recently updated your kitchen and did not receive a touch up kit, ask the showroom to obtain one on your behalf.

Avoid Water and Moisture Threats

Resist the temptation to place wet dishtowels or damp cloths over cabinet doors because the water and residue on the towels can damage a cabinet’s finish and result in peeling or color changes.

Always use your exhaust fan while cooking to minimize the amount of grease and grime flying onto cabinetry. Be sure to clean spills immediately; letting food, water, liquids or grease accumulate on your cabinets could damage the finish.

Avoid Light Damage

Direct exposure to sunlight can have a damaging effect on your cabinets especially those made from natural wood. Painted wood cabinets and laminated or thermofoil surfaces also are susceptible to fading from prolonged exposure to direct sunlight. Use window coverings to help reduce or eliminate damage caused by exposure to direct sunlight.

Avoid Heat Damage

Many of our clients use their oven’s self-cleaning feature. Because of the intense heat generated during oven self-cleaning, there is a small chance that if the heat escapes it could damage cabinets. If that does occur, remove cabinet doors and drawers closest to the oven before the next cleaning to avoid further damage.

These basic maintenance tips help our clients enjoy their new kitchens for many years. Do you have a kitchen maintenance question? Give us a call at 215-657-6110 or visit our showroom at 2124 Moreland Road, Abington, PA, 19001.

Preparing for a Showroom Visit

Thu, 02 Aug 2018 11:57:05 GMT

Most of our clients spend six months or longer conducting independent research before making an appointment to come to the showroom to discuss creating the kitchen of their dreams. We value our clients’ time. That’s why we offer the following advice to prepare for a showroom visit to not only save time, but also to ensure that our clients’ wants, needs and dreams are realized.

We know that the kitchen is the epicenter of the home, but the way that the kitchen is used varies greatly from one home to the next. Before you visit the showroom, consider who will use the space and how — will you use the space to prepare meals, entertain friends and family, etc.? Listing all of the uses and users enables your designer to not only determine how to meet your functionality requirements, but also why you are making the investment to renovate your home. The list of uses also enables us to determine the types and amount of lighting that you will need for reading, TV watching, baking, cooking, entertaining or just hanging out.

The size of the space is another critical factor. It’s best if you measure the length and width and bring those figures with you to the showroom, or we will likely have a designer visit your home to measure and discuss options with you. It will enable us to better understand the space that we are working with and if an island is possible (one of the most requested features in a kitchen). If space is at a premium, a peninsula might be a fall back. Another important consideration is traffic flow. Your new kitchen should make it easier to prepare meals, eat, clean up and navigate through your kitchen without bumping into things or others. If you currently bump into other family members while in the kitchen, let us know, because that will help us develop the best solution for your project.

Make another list to identify all of the things that you want to store in your kitchen and their sizes. A well-designed kitchen is an organized kitchen. Most of our clients appreciate clean, clutter-free countertops. When we know the utensils, cutlery, plates, pots, pans, books, computers, appliances, etc. that you want at your fingertips, we can recommend the right storage solutions for your project.

Think about how you want the new space to feel every time you walk into your new kitchen and use it. What are your favorite colors and styles. Do you prefer to make big bold statements or rather lean towards serene environments? We encourage our clients to create idea books on Pinterest or Houzz.com and comment on the different pictures and photographs in them. Include information and pictures of appliances, faucets, sinks, lighting fixtures, cabinets, door hardware, tile, granite, stone or other materials you would like to use in your new kitchen. Once we know your preferences, we can develop the solutions that meet your needs and budgets.

Let us know what you like and would like to change about your existing space. It may be too small for your needs. If so, we can look to open up the kitchen to create more space and to make it appear more spacious. Adding windows or doors that allow natural light can change the look and feel of a room. Experienced designers know how to work with client preferences, keeping the functionality and look that you enjoy while developing solutions to eliminate your dislikes.

Don’t be afraid to have a budget in mind. We know that most clients are reticent to talk about budgets up front. Sometimes budgets are realistic and other times they are not. What you see on home improvement shows on television rarely compare to the real world because on TV they don’t account for labor and labor is typically 50 percent of the cost of a new kitchen or bath. Sharing your budget with our designers helps to set the tone, will save time and avoid having to change course midstream if the unexpected occurs.

Also consider how involved you want to be in your project. Do you want to be part involved in every detail or would you prefer to rely on your designer to develop solutions for your review and approval? Either option is fine, but to help your designer save you time and energy communicate this information up front.

If you need additional advice on how to prepare for your new kitchen or bath renovation, please give us a call at 215-657-6110 or visit us at 2124 Moreland Road, Abington. Please call to set up an appointment with one of our experienced designers!

It's Never an Open or Shut Case

Thu, 19 Jul 2018 11:53:04 GMT

Open floor plan kitchens have been a hot trend for a number of years, but not all of our clients want or need an open floor plan, opting instead for an enclosed space that better suits their needs, lifestyle and preferences.

Why would anyone want an enclosed kitchen? There are many reasons. One is that you don’t have to worry about the mess when entertaining. There’s no need to wash dishes, pots and pans, put away spices and herbs or make sure that the counters are clutter free. You can spend more time entertaining instead of worrying what the kitchen looks like after preparing a meal.

There are functional advantages to closed kitchens. Enclosed kitchens generally offer more storage opportunities than open floor plan counterparts because they have more wall space. More wall space allows for additional cabinet and drawer and shelves.

Aesthetically, enclosed kitchens provide more flexibility for unique design statements. An enclosed kitchen represents a separate room distinct from other spaces in the home. The design choices don’t necessarily have to blend in with connecting rooms, as is often the case with open floor plans, and the kitchen can stand apart from any other room in the house. Our clients have decorated their enclosed kitchens with artwork, memorabilia from trips, bold colors, unique and different textures, statement making materials or whatever their heart desires. Imagine if you had a blank canvas, what unique statement would you make?

Enclosed kitchens offer both sound and aroma control. You can confine the odors from cooking, cleaning or other activities much more effectively in a closed space than an open one. The same functionality is offered with sound. In an enclosed kitchen, there is less likelihood you will hear a conversation taking place in an adjoining room or music from a stereo system.

Enclosed kitchens are especially appealing to our customers whose homes are filled with family, friends and constant activity. By closing off the kitchen from the rest of the home, our clients can have a space all of their own, away from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

If you would like to discuss the pros and cons of enclosed versus open floor plan kitchens, give us a call at 215-657-6110 or visit our showroom at 2124 Moreland Road, Abington, PA.

The Latest Kitchen Trends

Wed, 18 Jul 2018 11:48:23 GMT

A recent analysis of kitchen trends by one of the largest manufacturers of kitchen cabinets in North America offers some interesting insights to help you plan your kitchen remodel.

59% of kitchen renovations involve changing the kitchen’s footprint to be more open and to include other rooms in the home.
49% of kitchen remodels increase the kitchen size.
Islands continue to be among the most requested feature. The most popular uses of islands are as follows: entertaining, seating and meal preparation
The top design motifs for 2018 are:
Contemporary
Transitional
Farmhouse
Industrial
Rustic
Mixing materials is another hot trend with 49% of designers stating that they believe mixing an opaque with a stain is a top 2018 trend.
Another hot trend is a contemporary look that mixes metals with traditional accent pieces.
Cherry and maple continue to dominate stained cabinet sales, but there is a growing trend for wood finishes that show more grain and character.
Trends on the watch list include:
Metal accents
Contrasting finishes
Walnut
Dramatic textures
Light filled spaces
Feminine influences
Greige tones
The leading cabinet enhancements are:
Wide/deeper drawers with organizers
Floating/open shelves
Built-in appliances
Integrated cabinet lighting
Built-in seating

To learn how you can capitalize on storage solutions and the latest industry trends to help create a dream kitchen, please give us a call at 215-657-6110 or visit our showroom at 2124 Moreland Road, Abington, PA.

Light Up Your Life and Kitchen

Sun, 08 Jul 2018 09:45:43 GMT

Good lighting makes a new kitchen more enjoyable, and bad lighting does just the opposite. Lighting can make or break how a new kitchen looks, feels and functions. It is equally as important as cabinets, countertops, appliances and other fixtures.

Effective lighting illuminates a space in layers using different components and strategies to paint the final picture. You can buy a functional $70 faucet in a home center, but most likely that faucet will not add much to the beauty of the kitchen. A similar analogy holds true for lighting. Simply placing flush-mounted fixtures in the ceiling of the center of the kitchen can provide functional light, but recessed ceiling lighting may do little to beautify the space, create a mood or evoke a favorable emotional response.

Layers of light contribute not only to the functionality of the kitchen but also to its design and beauty. The different types of lighting that are used to layer light are:

Ambient
Task
Accent

Ambient lighting is the main source of illumination for most rooms in a home. The goal of ambient lighting is to provide soft, general illumination without necessarily drawing attention to the light source. Ambient lighting provides enough light for safe navigation, cooking and washing dishes and helps to define the space.

Depending on the location of the kitchen and the number of windows and doors, ambient lighting can be sourced organically, from sunlight. Other potential sources of ambient lighting can be chandeliers, pendant lights, recessed lighting and flush mounted lighting.

Task lighting is employed to illuminate the activities that take place in the kitchen and provides light to prep, cook, bake, read recipes, easily find ingredients and spices, watch television or do homework. Recent technological advances enable designers to integrate task lighting into drawers and cabinets by installing LED strip lighting or puck lights. We often employ LED strip lights under cabinets to illuminate countertops.

Accent lighting is used to help keep the kitchen from looking ordinary or bland by highlighting opening shelving, artwork, architectural details or other objects. A detail or work of art that draws the attention of the eye is referred to as a focal point. Light fixtures that provide light and shadows can make the space more inviting and comfortable. These may include track lights, recessed adjustable fixtures and spotlights. Accent lighting is subtle. A focused beam of light directed at a plant or highlighting a work of art, or a spotlight placed behind a plant and pointed upward through the leaves creates shadows on the wall that can make a kitchen more attractive.

We almost always recommend lighting controls such as dimmers as part of a lighting plan because they not only are greener, but they also they help to control utility costs and enable you to alter the look and feel of the room.

A kitchen lighting design is successful when all three types of light are layered together within a room to create a fully usable, adaptive space. Good lighting does not draw attention to itself but highlights the other design elements and fixtures in the space. Different light layers may be activated depending on purpose or time of day. For example, during the day, pendants over the island may not be needed at all, but when you start to prepare dinner in the evening all the layers providing ambient, task, and accent lighting become necessary.

If you would like to learn how lighting can enhance your kitchen, please give us a call at 215-657-6110 or visit our showroom at 2124 Moreland Road, Abington, PA.

A Kitchen Essential: Your Guide to Cutting Boards

Mon, 21 May 2018 11:01:28 GMT

A large wooden cutting board is a kitchen essential. Here’s why. Almost everything that must be prepared for a meal starts at a cutting board. The first consideration is safety. That’s why you want a wooden cutting board that is at least 14 inches wide by 20 inches long. The bigger the better, because you want to have plenty of room on your work surface. When space is cramped, the likelihood of knife injuries increases dramatically, because you often have to adjust the slicing motion or hold your hands in an awkward way, writes food expert Becky Kristal in The Washington Post. Another reason for a large board is to keep

food intact. When you slice, dice or chop on smaller boards, food tends to travel off the board and onto the countertop or floor. While that may be a nice treat for the family dog, it does little to help keep you organized while cooking.

Larger cutting boards tend to be heavier, reducing the possibility that they will shift during use. If your cutting board does tend to slide, Kristal recommends putting a wet paper towel or piece of shelf liner under the board. Larger boards also make cutting and chopping larger foods such as watermelons, butternut squash or the Thanksgiving turkey a lot easier.

Wood is the preferred material for cutting boards because it is kinder to knives. Glass boards may look great but they will dull your knives. So too will plates and countertops. Wood and plastic boards can take the abuse of meal preparation without dulling blades. Both materials – wood and plastic – are easy to clean with hot soapy water. Wood boards benefit from an occasional application of mineral oil to prevent them from drying out and absorbing moisture from whatever you are cutting.

Wooden boards can serve multiple purposes in a kitchen beyond a tool to prepare food. They can double as a serving platter for cheese, appetizers or even to display bread. Boards can expand available counter space if they are placed over a sink and can provide an aesthetic statement if leaned up against a wall.Many of our clients decide to renovate their kitchen because they love to cook or want to create a better environment for gatherings of family and friends. That’s why we encourage our clients to have at least two or three cutting boards in their kitchens. The large wooden board should be the go-to tool. According to research as the University of California at Davis, wooden boards trap and kill potentially harmful bacteria. Plastic boards with lots of nicks and scratches are not as effective in trapping and killing bacteria.

Practicality also tells us that you don’t want to cut raw vegetables on the same board you use to prepare raw chicken. That’s why having two boards makes sense. To help avoid potential contamination, dedicate one board for proteins – chicken, beef, fish, pork, etc. – and the other for fruits, vegetables and everything else. A plastic board works well for proteins and washing plastic boards in a dishwasher kills bacteria, claims the University of California Davis. Wooden boards should be cleaned by hand. Avoid letting wooden boards stand in a pool of water. Doing so can damage the board.

A great wooden cutting board and one or two others makes preparing meals a lot easier and more enjoyable. That’s why we help our clients build the kitchens of their dreams because we make their lives easier and more rewarding. If you would like to discuss the process involved in a kitchen renovation or how to make your existing kitchen function more effectively, please give us a call at 215-657-6110 or visit our showroom at 2124 Moreland Road, Abington, PA 19001.

The Details That Matter

Thu, 17 May 2018 10:52:22 GMT

Small details can create extraordinary value in the design of a new kitchen or bath. When we meet with homeowners we want to know how they currently use their kitchen. We want to know if they entertain frequently, host family gatherings or cook regularly. We learn the style of furnishings, accessories, flooring and wall covers throughout the home to determine clients’ preferences. We gather as much information as we can to help us exceed our clients’ expectations.

When we design a kitchen we divide the space into areas for food preparation, clean up, and if there is sufficient room, dining. Many of our clients want an island. They are great for food preparation, can double as a dining table and often serve as the focal point of a new kitchen.

For our clients who entertain frequently we recommend placing a prep-sink in an island and the main sink, used for cleanup, in another location to prevent dirty pots and pans and dishes from piling up on the island. The location of the sink on the island depends on the island’s size. If the island is less than nine feet, we typically will place the sink at one end of the island to maximize the space for food preparation. Island sinks also need to account for the height of the faucet. The taller the faucet is, the more prevalent it becomes.

We create clean lines for contemporary kitchens by specifying panels for the dishwasher and refrigerator, locating the microwave either in a hidden cabinet or as a cut out in a base cabinet and specify pop up outlets that disappear into the countertop. Pop-ups also represent a great solution in areas where there are no wall cabinets to hide the plug molding strip.

If our clients tell us that a coffee maker, toaster or other small appliance will sit on a countertop, we locate an electrical outlet behind it. This helps to hide the electrical cord.

To create consistency of image, we will coordinate the colors of wall outlets and plug molding to complement the backsplash.

Lighting can make or break a space. Under-cabinet lighting illuminates the countertop making it easier to prep and cook meals. This is achieved by locating the light at the front of the cabinet. If the light is placed at the back of the cabinet, it will illuminate the backsplash instead.

Other significant details that make a new kitchen more enjoyable include a divider in deeper base cabinets for pot lid storage, adding soap dispensers and an air switch to provide a clean look for counters and backsplashes and even countersinking the screw on a Lazy Susan cabinet to prevent a bi-fold door from scratching an adjacent cabinet.

Kitchens and baths are the most used rooms in a home. When a client partners with our showroom to create their dream space, we understand that the little details – often never considered – make all the difference. If you would like to explore the possibility of an extraordinary space in your home, please give us a call at 215-657-6110 or visit our showroom at 2124 Moreland Road, Abington, PA 19001.

The Art of Placing Cabinet Hardware

Mon, 07 May 2018 10:48:56 GMT

Cabinet hardware is the jewelry of the kitchen. It helps you make a unique design statement and create the look and feel that you desire. Hardware placement should not be an afterthought. When we design new spaces for our clients, we always review hardware placement to assure that the finished product makes them smile every time they enter the room.

The most common placement option is to center hardware in the middle of the drawer front. Centering provides a pleasing and symmetrical aesthetic, but its functionality may not be optimal especially on bottom drawers. Many of our designs feature a mix of styles where we specify slab fronts for the top drawers and more decorative styles for lower drawers. The look is a less formal style and one that is favored by many of our clients. In this design option, we often center the cabinet hardware in the middle of the top drawer only and place the hardware on the top center of the rail on the lower cabinets. This makes it easier to open and close bottom drawers.

Another common approach is to center all of the hardware on the rail of the drawer, which provides symmetry that many of our clients want and improved functionality especially if the primary users of the kitchen are taller. For kitchens featuring slab cabinets, we can maximize the aesthetic and functionality by centering the hardware on the top third of the slab front.

Some of our customers prefer to have two pulls on a drawer or cabinet front. To achieve a balanced look, we perform a simple calculation by envisioning the drawer as two drawers. For a 48 inch cabinet, we would view each half as a 24 inch cabinet and then place one pull 12 inches from the left and right edge of the drawer front.

If you would like to know the best placement option for cabinet hardware and how different options affect look, feel and functionality, please give us a call at 215-657-6110 or visit our showroom at 2124 Moreland Road, Abington, PA 19001.

Are You Open to an Open Floor Plan?

Sat, 05 May 2018 10:17:34 GMT

As designers, we’ve witnessed the transformation of kitchens from the place where meals are prepared to the epicenter of the home. Designs have become grander, space has become larger, and the look and feel has become more personal because the kitchen has been transformed into a place of pride that is intended to project a personal statement of style. Many of our clients want their new kitchen to serve multiple functions – central gathering place, meal preparation area and entertainment center among other roles. We often suggest open-concept

floor plans, where the kitchen flows through to other living spaces such as family room or dining room, to create a more communal, connected and multifunctional space.

According to a recent Houzz.com study, open-concept plans are featured in more than 70% of kitchen renovations. Open-concept floor plans offer a good solution for small-space living. Knocking down walls to open up small homes is a popular way of creating a feeling of space. An open floor plan can also promotes indoor-outdoor living. Imagine increased natural lighting streaming into your home and a kitchen that seamlessly opens out to covered patio for alfresco dining.

Of course, open concepts are not limited to kitchen footprint and design. Many of our clients favor open shelving to display cookware, art, vessels and mementos. Open shelving works well with glass front, interior lit cabinets that provide the look and feel of an open, airy, spacious and welcoming room that you want to spend a lot of time in.

The Most Requested Storage Solution

Thu, 03 May 2018 11:42:00 GMT

Pull-out waste and recycling bin cabinets were the top-rated storage solution in a recent Houzz.com survey of homeowners undertaking a kitchen renovation. This does not surprise us because of the heavy lifting recycling and garbage bins perform in a well-designed kitchen. Many of our customers prefer pull-out options to floor standing alternatives for the following reasons:

Aesthetics: When bins are hidden inside a cabinet or drawer, they are out of sight but easily accessible. We have yet to find garbage cans and recycling bins that improve the look and feel of a new kitchen nor do most bins that fit under the sink provide the functionality that our customers need and deserve.
Flexibility: Pull-out containers can be incorporated in any design motif. Recycling and refuse containers fit seamlessly into a deep drawer. When closed, there is no evidence that the space is being used for rubbish and recyclables. Depending on kitchen size, we may recommend more than one pull out cabinet for waste and recycling containers.
Functionality: Pull out bins are easy to use. Plus, many of our clients appreciate when we place the pull-out drawer below a butcher block insert or designated prep area that allows home cooks to easily sweep waste into a garbage or compost bin. A great idea for smaller kitchens is a drawer above the pull-out cabinet that has a cutting board insert with a hole in it that allows home cooks to sweep waste directly into the bin and hide the cutting board away when not in use.
Environmental efficiency: Pull out drawers makes it easy to recycle or compost. We’ve specified pull outs with multiple bins used for paper, waste, glass and metal.
Odor control: Left over cooking and kitchen product waste and containers can produce unpleasant odors, especially if our client indicates a preference for a composting bin. In those cases, we will recommend bins with lids and models specifically designed for compost.
Budget friendly: There are systems that can be custom designed depending on cabinet selection, plus there are opportunities to incorporate pull-out containers in any underused space in the kitchen

We understand that you might not place recycling bins and garbage disposal at the top of your priority list when you envision your new dream kitchen. That’s why we ask our clients lots of questions relating to how they plan to use their new kitchen, how often they cook and entertain and their environmental preferences, among others to help assure that our recommendations not only result in a beautiful new space but one that is equally fun and easy to use. If you are interested in a new kitchen or discussing how you can alter your existing space to make it more functional and enjoyable, please give us a call at 215-622-7631 or visit our showroom at 2124 Moreland Road, Abington, PA 19001.

Everything Including the Kitchen Sink

Tue, 01 May 2018 10:39:45 GMT

Studies indicate that homeowners spend up to 50% of their time in the kitchen in front of the sink. Today’s kitchen sink has become a multitask center. The kitchen sink is used for washing and rinsing dishes, cleaning vegetables, soaking pots and pans, bathing the baby, dying hair, getting hot water from the instant hot and just plain hand washing. The list goes on and on.

Most of our customers come to the showroom thinking they know exactly what they want in their kitchen sink. Generally it’s whatever they’ve had in the past because it’s the sink they are comfortable with. Once our customers see the options available they can become overwhelmed. It’s our job to educate our customers so they can make an informed decision and select a sink that addresses form, function, needs, preferences and budgets.

Until recently, the three most common types of sinks have been cast iron, enameled steel and stainless steel. However, as the size and importance of the kitchen has grown, sink options have expanded to enable homeowners to customize their kitchens. Today, the kitchen sink can be a statement piece because they now come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, colors, materials and mounting options.

As kitchens continue to grow in size, efficiency is more difficult to achieve. Yes, there’s more room, but it the space needs to be organized and workable. That’s why in larger kitchens we often recommend installing two sinks: a prep sink, generally facing a social area so you can face your guests and family members during meal preparation and a main sink used mostly for clean up.

Today’s Kitchen Sink Trends

A number of our customers are attracted to farmhouse or apron front sinks. Farmhouse sinks typically are deeper than stainless steel under mount or top mounted sinks and they area generally easier to clean. This is because farmhouse sinks are installed under the countertop, making it easier to wipe excess water or food scraps into the sink. Farmhouse sinks also are easier on the back because they bring the sink closer to the user.

Fireclay is the most common material used to make farmhouse sinks. Fireclay sinks are capable of withstanding extremely high temperatures while maintaining their original shape and size. This high firing temperature fuses the clay base with glazes to provide an extremely strong finish that is scratch, chip and stain-resistant. Other popular materials used to make farmhouse sinks are stainless steel, natural stone, copper, cast iron, concrete, porcelain and composite materials.

Many of our clients who do not choose a farmhouse sink, opt for an under mount instead. Under mount sinks are fastened to the underside of the countertop. This method is used for solid surface countertops such as granite, quartz and engineered stone. The lip where the sink meets counter must be a finished edge. The faucet in this application typically is mounted to the countertop. We advise our customers to decide if the countertop should overhang the sink, if it should be set back from the lip letting the sink show or if the countertop should be flush with the side of the sink. Based on the customer’s preference, we provide direction to the countertop fabricator.

Other mounting options are drop-in, flush mount or surface mounted. The choice of countertop material affects the mounting system used. Drop-in sinks have a lip that rests on the countertop surface with an integral rim. In the past, this was the traditional method of mounting sinks, especially on tile. This sink is literally dropped into a cutout in the countertop. Drop-in sinks are often cast iron and ringed by a large, raised lip that rests on the countertop surface. Stainless steel drop-in sinks have much flatter lips. Typically, the faucet is mounted to the sink.

Flush mounted sinks are set into the counter and align evenly with the countertop material (generally tile). These are referred to as a tile-in-flange. Only a few of our customers opt for a flush mounted sink.

Surface mount sinks are installed onto laminate countertops. There is a metal frame rim that provides for a flush installation. It fits around the sink and is held in place by clips. These clips hold both the bowl to the rim and the rim to the counter. Although it’s nearly flush with the countertop, a common complaint is that grime and moisture get trapped on both sides of the metal rim. That’s why we don’t specify a lot of surface mounted sinks.

If you want to know how to select the perfect sink or sinks for your kitchen remodel please give us a call at 215-657-6110 or visit our showroom at 2124 Moreland Road, Abington, PA 19001.

A Guide to Cabinet Terminology

Wed, 25 Apr 2018 10:32:07 GMT

Kitchen design typically begins with cabinet selection. There are an almost unlimited number of options, and there is unique nomenclature that manufacturers and designers use. Here’s a guide to some of most popular cabinet terminology.

Cabinet Construction

Framed Cabinets

Framed cabinets have rails and stiles that form the face frame at the front of the cabinet box. The frame is attached to the door front giving the cabinet extra strength and dimension. Common door types found on framed cabinets include standard, full overlay, partial overlay and inset.

Frameless Cabinets

Frameless cabinet construction is popular among those seeking simple, more contemporary cabinet designs. This construction eliminates the cabinet face frame, and a denser box is used to achieve necessary stability. With frameless cabinets, only full overlay doors can be used with hinges attached directly to the sides of the cabinet box.

Cabinet Door Types

Overlay Cabinet Doors

Overlay refers to how much of the cabinet door covers the face frame. Cabinet doors come in full or partial overlay versions.

Full overlay doors cover the entire cabinet box and create a nearly seamless and streamlined look. When space is a premium, we recommend full overlay frameless cabinets, because they provide the maximum amount of storage space and easy access.

Double door full overlay doors provide even more flexibility because they do not have a vertical face frame stile between the two doors. We recommend this approach often if our clients need to store larger items such as serving platters and cookware.

Partial overlay doors cover part of the cabinet box, with a small portion left showing, providing a more traditional cabinet look. The doors and drawers of a partial overlay cabinet will overlap the cabinet box evenly around the opening of each cabinet. This type of cabinetry door style is one of the most traditional and common, and it is also typically a cost-effective style.

Inset Cabinet Doors

Inset cabinet doors fit inside the cabinet face frame openings, making the door flush with the front of the cabinet instead of on the top of the cabinet box. Decorative hinges are used to fit the door precisely into the frame opening. We often recommend inset cabinets for larger kitchens as inset cabinets offer less usable interior space with the door sitting inside the frame. The clean lines and elegant look of inset cabinets more than compensate for the loss of a little interior space.

Panel Types

Recessed Panel Cabinet Doors

Recessed panel cabinet doors have a center panel that is lower than the rest of the door and a higher outer edge. We often specify recessed panel doors for modern designs.

Raised Panel Cabinet Doors.

We often use raised panel cabinet doors for more traditional styles. They have a center panel that is raised from the rest of the door and often feature a contoured edge that gives it a specific style.

Cabinet Styles

Shaker design is characterized by clean lines that add depth and interest without being visually overpowering. The most basic shaker style is a five-piece door with a recessed center panel and no additional edge detailing.
Slab doors do not have panels, molding or detailing to produce a clean minimalist look.
Arched doors have a curve at the top that is either recessed or raised within the door panel. Cathedral arch doors a medieval arch at the top. This style is almost always limited to wall hung cabinets.
Beaded cabinets feature decorative wood paneling with vertical grooves on the interior panel.
Glass inset cabinets feature a clear or frosted piece of glass that allows you to see the contents of the cabinet.
Mission-style cabinets are usually made from oak and stained to highlight the grain of the wood. They employ a square frame molding to produce a simple elegant style.

Guidance For Spring Cleaning Your Kitchen

Mon, 09 Apr 2018 10:10:36 GMT

It’s Spring (well, at least the calendar says it is...). Though we have been plagued by snow this winter and late coldness, spring will come! The weather is starting to change a little bit, and the aroma of spring flowers will soon be in the air! Spring also is a traditional time for organizing your home. The annual writ of Spring Cleaning not only provides a more enjoyable home life, it also can help improve your mood, decrease stress levels and enhance creativity, claims Psychology Today magazine.

An organized kitchen can make meal preparation more enjoyable and could help improve the quality of meals. Domino magazine asked organizing expert and Keep This Toss That author Jamie Novak for decluttering kitchen advice. Novak’s guidance for organizing your kitchen is as follows:

Measuring Cups and Spoons

Stock your kitchen with:

One set of dry cups (preferably those that nest together for storage)
One liquid 2-cup measuring cup
One set of stainless steel measuring spoons

Donate any additional measuring spoons or cups that you have.

Pots and Pans

Every kitchen needs one of each of the following essential pots and pans:

10-quart stockpot with lid for boiling pasta or steaming vegetables
3-quart sauté pan with lid for searing meats
2-quart saucepan for reheating food, making sauces and general cooking
9” by 13” baking pan for roasting chickens and baking cakes

Novak believes any additional pots and pans are unnecessary.

Knives

You only need three:

8-inch chef’s knife
3-inch paring knife
10-inch serrated knife

Kitchen Shears

Kitchen shears are a cook’s best friend. They can be used for slicing pitas, mincing herbs, trimming piecrusts and snipping beans and snow peas. They can also be used to open stubborn food packaging.

Peelers

You need two – a Y-shaped peeler for large jobs and a swivel blade for smaller items.

Dishes

If you have more than two sets of dishes, you have too many sets.

Potholders and Dishtowels

You need just one set of silicone potholders, and when it comes to dish towels, seven is the magic number. And remember, when you use dishtowels you make a contribution to the environment by cutting down on use of paper towels.

Spices

Bon Appetite magazine identified 24 essential spices for any kitchen. To help unclutter your spice drawer, consider investing in an attractive storage container. Throw out any ground spices that have been in your spice drawer or rack for more than six months and whole spices that are a year or older because they are past their prime.

Things to Eliminate

Metal tongs because they can easily scratch pots and pans, which can make them unsanitary. Instead use silicone or rubber-tipped tongs.
Scratched or warped pots and pans.
Dull or rusted knives.
Stained or chipped mugs and drinking glasses
Deli containers
Condiments that you get with take out food such as soy sauce, mayo, mustard, duck sauce, etc. They take up space in the fridge, they offer little benefit and are rarely used.

Things to Donate

Pots or pans that don’t fit your burners.
Small appliances that you only use once a year. How much space does that sandwich press take up in a cabinet? When was the last time you made ice cream waffles or fresh pasta?
Mini specialty baking pans that are used less than once a year.
Souvenir plastic cups you have acquired from your travels or that you thought were a good idea at the time of purchase.
Travel coffee mugs that exceed the number of coffee drinkers in your home.
Water bottles that exceed the number of water drinkers in your home.
Glassware that is used less than once a year.

We can help organize your kitchen by recommending the latest storage devices available on the market. Give us a call at 215-657-6110 or visit our showroom at 2124 Moreland Road, Abington, PA so you can enjoy Spring, reduce your stress and enhance your creativity in the kitchen and beyond.

Stretching your Renovation Budget

Mon, 02 Apr 2018 09:54:12 GMT

Last month, we touched on how much it will cost to tackle a kitchen renovation project. Here, we want to consider a similar topic, with a different angle. When our clients make the decision to build the kitchen of their dreams, most times dreams and budgets don’t necessarily jibe. We help our clients to prioritize what is most important to them in order to stretch budget dollars without compromising either utility or aesthetics.

The first question we typically ask is, ‘How do you want your kitchen to feel when you enter and use it?’ Materials, texture, lighting, color and utility create the feel of a room. We also encourage our clients to tell us how they plan to use their new kitchen. We ask how often they cook, and how many cooks use the kitchen at the same time. We also ask how often they entertain. Once we understand our clients’ goals and dreams, we capitalize on our years of design experience and our knowledge of products, space layout and construction to craft a design that meets their budgets and goals.

Unless the budget is unlimited, which is almost never the case, we help our clients stretch their budget dollars by paring down must-haves. Experience has taught us that warming drawers and steam secondary ovens are not frequently used appliances. They are nice to have and can really make a kitchen stand out, but their form typically outweighs their functionality. We find that a double oven can provide the same benefit as a warming drawer, especially for couples who work late hours and families with children engaged in after-school activities. One oven can be used for meal preparation and the other can be used to keep meals warm, providing the same benefit as a warming drawer without the extra expense. Plus, double ovens can be a real bonus if you entertain frequently or your home is the place for holiday celebrations and extended family gatherings.

Regardless of your budget, every new kitchen deserves an element that turns heads, that makes a distinctive design statement and that reflects the personality of the family member who uses the kitchen most often. This might be achieved with a dramatic lighting fixture, a statement-making backsplash or countertops adorned with rare hardwood.

Clients with smaller spaces can more easily stretch budget dollars because the diminutive size limits the number of cabinets that can be used in the space. This frees up budget dollars for distinctive appliances, lighting, backsplashes, plumbing fixtures or flooring.

Open shelving can help stretch budget dollars without compromising the look or functionality of space, providing necessary storage without the expense of an enclosed or glass-front cabinet. Full over-lay door styles typically require less of an investment than an inset cabinet. Quartz countertops are hot, but if the budget is tight, we often can find a granite alternative that provides a similar look and feel at less cost.

Cabinet hardware is another opportunity to stretch budget dollars. Cabinet hardware is jewelry for cabinet doors and drawers. We know of many options that provide a luxurious look without requiring a fortune to achieve it.

Our showroom understands how to stretch budget dollars and help our clients prioritize what is most important for their new kitchen. Wondering if your kitchen budget is reasonable given your goals? Please call us at 215-657-6110 to discuss your goals and we will work with you to make sure that they are achievable within your budget. Better yet, make an appointment to visit our showroom at 2124 Moreland Road, Abington, PA so we can show you where investments can be minimized without compromising a great look and functionality.

What to Expect from a Kitchen and Bath Showroom

Sun, 18 Mar 2018 11:54:50 GMT

We understand that deciding to renovate an existing space or build a brand new kitchen, bath, or laundry room is a daunting undertaking. The Internet is both our friend and foe. While it provides access to every product and service that homeowners, builders, architects, and designers need for a renovation project, the amount of information often is overwhelming, resulting inparalysis and elevated levels of stress. That's where a professional kitchen and bath showroom can be your greatest asset. We specialize in making order out of chaos. Here are ten minimum services that you should expect from a professional showroom:

Expect showroom professionals to narrow your product choices based on needs, preferences and budgets. We ask the right questions to help us better understand and identify the perfect products for your project.
Expect your showroom to direct you to product choices that complement your existing home décor and your personal style. Our showroom consultants will ask questions to determine the look you want to achieve and to assure that there is a consistent flow of style and color throughout your home.
Expect your showroom to establish a realistic timetable for the renovation project. We often add more time to account for the unexpected.
Expect your showroom to establish a realistic budget and to direct you to products that represent the best value for your available funds.
Expect your showroom professional to identify and recommend cabinets that work best for you, your lifestyle and look. The professional should explain the reasons why the recommendations are best.
Expect your showroom professional to help you make decisions, especially those requiring compromises.
Expect your showroom professional to establish a realistic installation budget and timetable.
Expect your showroom professional to develop innovative and custom solutions to unique and different kitchen and bathroom spaces.
Expect your showroom professional to explain the difference in the quality of products recommended.
Expect your showroom professional to measure your space before ordering any product to ensure that products specified will fit perfectly and give you a look that will make you smile every time you walk into and use your new kitchen or bath.

We recognize that our primary responsibilities are to make things work and positively change clients’ lives and living spaces. It's a responsibility that we take seriously. If you would like to discuss a potential new kitchen or bath project, please call us 215-657-6110 or make an appointment to visit our showroom 2124 Moreland Road, Abington, PA.

How Much Should Your Kitchen Renovation Cost?

Mon, 05 Mar 2018 11:52:31 GMT

How much will it cost to renovate a kitchen or bath?,” is the number one question we are asked by first-time visitors to our showroom. The response is always the same: It depends. Cost is dependent upon a number of factors that include:

Size of the kitchen
Scope of the renovation
Quality of materials and finishes selected
Quality of the renovation plan

To help you budget for a potential renovation, here are guidelines based on a medium sized kitchen of 125 square feet with good, better and best price ranges for major renovation costs. These costs also are based on not changing the footprint of the kitchen or needing to reconfigure plumbing, electrical or ventilation (making changes for code compliance are factored into the budget ranges presented).

Other “average” costs include the following:

Permit: $1,000
Demolition: $2,500
Drywall: $2,000

Additionally, there is a range between 23 to 30 percent of overall costs for project management and overhead. These average costs should be used as a guideline and my be less or more depending on the location of the project, the size of the kitchen and scope. If your renovation involves relocating plumbing that could add $3,000 to $8,000 to the project. If you want to move windows, the cost could be as high as $5,000 per window. If you want to knock down walls, that could add another $2,000 to $3,000 to the job.

A surefire way to help ensure that budgets are maintained is to have a well developed plan and schedule for your renovation. This is where a professional showroom can make all of the difference. Designing and renovating kitchens and baths is what we do every day professionally. We know the obstacles that need to be addressed, problem areas to avoid and how to stretch budget dollars to help assure successful outcomes that allow our clients to create the kitchen of their dreams. If you need assistance with developing a realistic budget for your kitchen renovation, please give us a call at 215-657-6110 or make an appointment to visit our showroom at 2124 Moreland Road, Abington, PA.

Four Tips for Your Kitchen Remodel

Wed, 02 Aug 2017 10:20:39 GMT

The process of remodeling your kitchen can feel a little overwhelming at times. Here at Mark IV, we wanted to give you a few tips to help you get started:

Assess Your Current Space

Consider your reasons for a kitchen remodel. Do you want to improve the overall look, make the layout more functional, create more storage and better organization or increase the value of your home? Knowing your objectives will help you make informed decisions.

Create a Checklist and Idea File

A checklist will help you determine the priorities for your kitchen remodel before you even visit a showroom. Knowing what kind of design style you're drawn to or what kind of storage solutions you will need will facilitate the planning process with your designer. Visit Pinterest and Houzz and thumb through magazines to create an idea file to use for inspiration in planning your new space. Make of note of what you like about the kitchens in your file to use as a reference point when describing your ideas to a designer.

Determine Your Budget

Setting a budget for your remodel is just as important as defining your vision for the space. Consider how much you will spend for various elements of the remodel. As a rule of thumb, in a typical kitchen emodeling project, cabinets account for about 40% of the project cost and countertops make up around 10%. Other key items to factor in include appliances, lighting and electrical work and wall coverings.

Visit A Showroom

Once you've determined your goals, explored design styles and considered your budget, it’s time to meet with a kitchen showroom like ours to look at cabinetry displays and speak with a kitchen designer. If you have photos of the space or even some of your ideas, bring those in when you visit our showroom. A professional will help you bring your vision to life and achieve your goals while keeping within in your budget.

Have questions about the process? Give us a call 215-657-6110 or stop by our showroom at 2124 Moreland Road, Abington, PA 19001.

Whats The Deal: Kitchen Cabinets

Fri, 19 May 2017 14:55:52 GMT

Most of our clients begin their kitchen remodel with cabinets. There is almost an unlimited number of choices that can meet any aesthetic and budget need. You may have already encountered industry nomenclature that describes cabinet options as stock, semi-custom and custom. Did you know that those terms refer to the different production methods employed to manufacture cabinets; the terminology has nothing to do with the quality of the cabinet.

Stock

Stock cabinets are ready-made, pre-manufactured and ship when an order is received. They can’t be altered or customized. What you see is what you get.

Pros: Price, and you don’t have to wait for long lead times to have your cabinets delivered.
Cons: Typically you don’t have a broad selection of styles, shapes, colors, wood type or finishes.

Semi-Custom

Semi-custom cabinets come in basic sizes similar to stock cabinets but give designers the flexibility to resize cabinet drawers and doors and modify the depth of the cabinets themselves.

Pros: The best of both worlds. A gentle price tag accompanied by some ability to have your cabinets your way to meet space requirements and design preferences.
Cons: May not provide all of the flexibility you need to meet room requirements or aesthetics preferences.

Custom

As the name suggest, custom cabinets provide a blank canvas to get whatever size, color and finish that you desire. Most custom cabinets are built to order on a case by case basis.

Pros: Clients can get the details and features that they want to make personal design statements in their home and outfit their new kitchen to exacting requirements.

Cons: Custom cabinets are labor intensive because they are built one at a time and can take a few weeks or even a couple of months to build. They also generally cost more than semi-custom and stock cabinets

Whats The Deal: Countertop Options

Fri, 19 May 2017 14:49:12 GMT

Countertops play two critical roles in the kitchen. The first is functional. We understand that countertops are used for preparing meals, baking and as spaces for storing kitchen equipment and utensils. Equally important is the aesthetic role that countertops play.

When working with a designer or selecting a countertop on your own, here are several key factors to consider to help assure that the product you choose makes you smile every time you walk into and use your kitchen.

Take a holistic view of the kitchen. Countertops, cabinets, appliances, faucets, sinks and hardware need to be in tune with one another. No one component of the kitchen should stand alone. The components need to connect with one another.

How countertops make a kitchen look and feel is determined by the material, texture, color, style, form and shape. The way that countertops contrast or compliment other elements has an impact too. We always ask clients, “What message do you want your countertops to convey, and what emotions do you want the space to evoke?”

Material will impact how easy the surface is to clean and maintain. The most popular materials that we specify for clients are:

Granite: It’s versatile, tough and offers an almost infinite palate of colors and styles. Granite is easy to maintain and it will last a lifetime.
Engineered Stone: Products such as Caesarstone and Silestone function and perform in a similar fashion to granite. They are heat and scratch resistant and easy to maintain. The materials will last a lifetime, don’t stain and offer an almost unlimited spectrum of colors, textures and styles.
Stainless Steel: Professional chefs gravitate to stainless steel, in part, because it is impervious to bacteria and heat. Stainless steel requires more maintenance because of its propensity to scratch and show water spots and fingerprints. We often specify stainless steel countertops for clients that want commercial-styled appliances and plumbing fixtures.
Butcher Block: This is a surface that represents good value if you like the aesthetic. It’s versatile and can work in both traditional and contemporary kitchens. Butcher block can scratch and regularly needs to be treated. Also, it is not impervious to heat.
Soapstone: This material also has a broad range of stylistic options from contemporary to traditional Like butcher block it also requires regular oil applications. Soapstone also is resistant to stains, but it can be more difficult and costly to maintain because fixing cracks can be expensive.
Solid Surface: Materials such as Cornian, Formica and Staron are examples of solid surface countertops. They offer great ranges for colors and finishes and require minimal maintenance.
Concrete: There are no limitations on concrete countertops. You can create custom textures, colors, shapes and surfaces. They are environmentally friendly and heat resistant. They typically require more maintenance because they need to be sealed to protect the surface from stains, water and heat damage. The cost ranges from moderate to luxury depending on the amount of customization.

If you have questions about the countertops that will be perfect for your kitchen, please give our showroom a call at 215-657-6110 to discuss your questions with one of our designers.

Make The Most of Your Investment

Fri, 19 May 2017 14:35:15 GMT

We hope to provide not only interesting content, but content that will be helpful in answering any questions or concerns you have about renovating your kitchen or bathroom. Please comment or give us a call at 215-657-6110, and our designers would be happy to assist in answering any questions you may have. Check in often, we will be posting fresh, new content for you regularly! Let’s get started!

A kitchen build or remodel is a big deal – it is a significant financial investment and also requires a lot of time and energy. We work hard to give our clients a continuous return on their investment and recommend capitalizing on the following trends to build value that stands the test of time.

White has might. White kitchens could not be hotter right now. Two thirds of National Kitchen and Bath Association members report that white is their number one choice for cabinets. That’s an increase of 20% from two years ago.

Stainless steel is everywhere. While you can’t go wrong with Stainless appliances, manufacturers are producing black stainless and white glass like appliance panels.
Once granite countertops were considered a luxury, now they are commonplace, and we’re seeing countertops in a variety of other materials that include quartz, soapstone, concrete and glass.
There’s a revolution going on in lighting. The price of LED lamps continues to fall, providing a perfect combination of form and function.
Hands free faucets continue to capture client attention. Imagine how great it could be when your hands have been kneading dough and your faucet automatically turns on without have to dirty the handle?
Transitional designs continue to dominate. This marriage of traditional and contemporary furniture, finishes, materials and fabrics results in a classic and timeless look.

The Keys To Selecting The Best Kitchen Faucet

Fri, 19 May 2017 10:48:47 GMT

The kitchen serves as a central gathering place for family and friends and is a source of culinary inspiration for the home cook. Given the importance of the kitchen, it should come as little surprise that the sophistication and complexity of today’s kitchens continue to increase. Our showroom has responded to this changing dynamic by constantly introducing and specifying new products that combine innovative design and technological sophistication with superb functionality. Plus, many of the new products are really, really cool.

Similar to other fixtures and appliances found in today’s modern kitchens, kitchen faucets have kept pace by offering features that were unimaginable just a few years ago. There are faucets with pull-down and pullout sprays; contemporary, transitional and traditional designs; built-in water filtration systems and hands-free/electronic models that can be operated remotely, with a touch of a finger or turned on as a person approaches and turned off either at a touch or when a person moves away from the faucet. There are kitchen faucets whose water stream changes colors to reflect changes in water temperature and flow rates. Our clients have the option of installing commercial-grade faucets typically found in the finest restaurants. Many kitchens that we design feature multiple preparation stations, requiring a faucet for each area. Kitchen faucets today even include high temperature limit stops that preset temperature to prevent the possibility of scalding. It’s a great feature for our clients with young children.

The kitchen faucet is the most used appliance in the home. It has to continuously perform and serve an extremely important aesthetic function. We understand that kitchen faucets can set the tone for the room. Our showroom designers coordinate the function, quality, design and finish of a kitchen faucet with everything else in the kitchen. Our clients feel great about the choices they make selecting kitchen faucets that are best suited for their project.

The factors to consider in selecting kitchen faucets include:

How frequently the kitchen is used
Design of the kitchen
Number of work stations
Number, configuration and size of each sink
Finish of appliances
Style of kitchen cabinetry

Selecting a kitchen faucet is not easy. It is not uncommon for our clients to become overwhelmed by the sheer quantity of features and designs available in the marketplace. The Internet has accelerated information overload. Customers searching on sites such as www.houzz.com for a kitchen faucet will receive a choice of more than 70,000 different models to choose from. It’s nearly impossible to know which one is best for a specific application. That’s where our expertise helps make the selection process easier and less stressful. We also can explain the cost differences in kitchen faucets that can range from $60 for models found in home centers to those with price tags exceeding $1,500.

Our showroom professionals help our clients make sense of the options best suited for your kitchen and budget. Our role is to help you select the style and finish that you want while we take care of the technical and performance aspects of faucet selection that will make you smile every time you use your faucet. If you need help selecting a new kitchen faucet or a new kitchen makeover, please call us at 215-657-6110, email us at jfirth@markivkitchens.com to make an appointment or come to our showroom located at 2124 Moreland Road, Abington, PA 19001.

Why White Is Almost Always Right

Fri, 19 May 2017 10:24:23 GMT

With the average kitchen renovation costing approximately $60,000 according to the National Association of Realtors, we help our clients make sure that they maintain the quality of their asset through effective and inspiring designs and specifying materials that stand the test of time.

One technique that is almost always a sure winner is to specify white cabinets. During the 1920s and 1930s, white was about the only option available for cabinetry, countertops, backsplashes and floor tile. Times have changed in the last 100 years, but white remains one of the most endearing and valuable palates for a kitchen renovation.

For both cabinets and appliances white tends to top the preference list annually. One of the reasons is that white represents happiness, innocence and purity according to color therapists. White also has the highest reflectiveness of any color, and that helps make even small kitchen feel more spacious.

White is far from boring. Cabinet doors and trim create shadows and contrast layers that are architecturally interesting and provide depth. It makes every other color in the kitchen pop.

White cabinets are budget friendly. As a standard offering for almost every manufacturer, white cabinets can fit almost any budget and design motif whether it you prefer euro contemporary or farmhouse traditional and everything in between.

Not everything in your kitchen should be white. We often capitalize on the blank canvas that white provides to incorporate splashes of color for wall and floor coverings and back splashes. Our clients find that incorporating color into a predominately white kitchen makes distinctive design statements that reflect their personality. Alternatively, white contrasts nicely with stainless steel appliances, wood flooring and wood countertops.

White appliances are starting to take market share from stainless steel. Manufacturers recognize the timelessness of white and are offering refrigerators, ovens, ranges, dishwashers, microwaves, etc. covered in polished enamel that gives the appearance of white glass.

Another popular option that many of our clients prefer is to cover appliances with panels that match their cabinet doors.

When our customers want white countertops, we often specify Carrara or Calacatta marble. Every manufacturer of solid-surface and quartz-type of countertops offer numerous white options. You can even have white concrete if that is your preference.

White remains a timely motif for any kitchen renovation. If you would like to see the many shades that white offers for your new kitchen, please visit our showroom or give us a call at 215-657-6110.

Storage Solution

Fri, 19 May 2017 09:56:59 GMT

An almost endless array of options is available to store cookware, food, utensils, countertop appliances (blenders, mixers, etc.), recycling containers and so on. That is the reason why we ask our clients to describe what they currently store in their kitchens during the planning phase of their remodel. We also ask if there are other items that they would like to store. Storage capacity affects usable counter space. We find that many of our clients’ current floor plans require mixers, blenders, food processors, coffee pots, et. al. sit on the counter because there is insufficient cabinet space. Many of our clients are seeking a clean look with few to no items on the counter top.

An easy solution to storage shortages is to specify double stacked kitchen cabinets. They not only have the ability to greatly increase your storage space, they also can provide a blank canvas to create dramatic and striking displays and a completely finished look. There are several factors associated with specifying double-stacked cabinets.

First, you need the physical space to accommodate twin sets of wall cabinets. In many kitchens wall-hung cabinets do reach the ceiling. The typical rule of thumb is that if there is a foot of open space between the top of your existing cabinets and the ceiling, there is a good chance that your new kitchen can accommodate double-stacked cabinets. The following are the advantages and considerations of specifying double-stacked cabinets.

Advantages

Storage space: store seldom used countertop appliances (waffle irons, griddles, sandwich presses, pasta makers and so on). If you have a lot of cookware, the extra space makes a nice home for seldom used pots and pans as well.

Personal design statements: Specifying glass front cabinets in combination with panels and/or open cabinets allows you to showcase your favorite things whether they be a vase that you picked up during your travels, a serving platter, decorative accents, silver or gold items, candle sticks or that special trinket that makes you smile every time you see it.

Enhanced lighting: Combining glass front cabinets with interior cabinet lighting produces a spotlight effect for any item that is stored in the cabinet. Interior cabinet lighting also serves to complement pendant, recessed or other lighting. Bottom line: A brighter space.

Clean lines and a finished look: Some of our clients do not like the flow of the kitchen interrupted if the cabinets on the wall do not reach the ceiling. When cabinets do reach the ceiling, the look is more seamless and cleaner.

Considerations

Accessibility: The upper tier of the cabinets that reach the ceiling may not be easily accessible without the assistance of a ladder or step stool. If you don’t mind, great. If you find this to be inconvenient, you may want to think twice.

Budget: If you double the amount of wall-hung cabinets by a having double stacked configuration, your budget will need to increase accordingly.

Maintenance: You have 33% more surface area to clean and maintain.

Space: If you have a limited footprint, double stacked may make your kitchen feel cramped. There can be too much of a good thing.

How do you develop the right plan for storage, aesthetics, functionality, design, comfort and ease of use? Come to our showroom 2124 Moreland Road, Abington, PA 19001 or give us a call at (215)-657-6110 to help you determine the best options for your new kitchen.

The Only Thing You Have To Fear Is Fear Itself

Fri, 05 May 2017 10:35:44 GMT

The initial elation of moving into a new home often wanes over time. The way we live, entertain and relax undergoes a metamorphosis. We have children. Our careers change. Our children leave the nest. New hobbies become passions. Aging is a fact of life and change is a constant, but your home might not be able to keep up.

We can redecorate, add a coat of paint, buy new furniture and give our cabinets a facelift with new hardware and accessories. Cosmetic repairs help create a new feel within the home, but they may not meet new lifestyle needs. You most likely need to knock down a few walls to create a fresh space. When you take the plunge, you can incorporate new technology and add fabulously inventive products that will bring smiles to the faces of your family and friends every time they cross your threshold.

But disrupting the status quo and undertaking a construction project with many unknowns is scary, messy and, at times, painful. No remodeling project goes as planned. I know you have heard too many horror stories from friends who have renovated. They may make the case that it’s not worth the hassle.

Most everyone wants the benefits of a well thought out and executed remodel but many are afraid. The fear of the unknown is powerful and surprises along the way are rarely pleasant. But what happens if you do not take the risk? You are stuck in a place that is just not right and doesn’t suit your lifestyle. Why not put together your dream team and tackle this opportunity now and stop making excuses?

Everyday our experienced design consultants work with talented trade professionals. Our showroom offers the finest cabinets, plumbing fixtures, decorative hardware, and countertops available in the marketplace. But that’s not what makes our showroom a valued resource for your project. The difference maker is our knowledgeable designers that make Mark IV Kitchen & Bath Gallery the partner you need for your significant project.

We understand that remodeling is a daunting task. We also know the benefits far outweigh the risks. If you are not the one to look back and say I should’ve done something, please drive to Mark IV and discuss your dream home with one of our designers. After all, it’s your home we are talking about.

Lessons For Effectively Budgeting Your Kitchen Renovation

Fri, 05 May 2017 09:46:23 GMT

How much does it cost to remodel a kitchen? That depends on a number of factors that include the size of the kitchen, the quality of materials specified and whether or not you are using the same footprint or are removing or relocating walls, electric, plumbing,etc.

The remodel may cost $25,000 or it could be in excess of $100,000. Over the years, we have helped your neighbors budget effectively for their kitchen remodel to help prevent both surprises and sticker shock.

As part of our initial meeting we’ll ask how long you plan to stay in your home. If it is less than five years, then you are making the investment to improve the value of your home. We based our recommendations on helping you to maximize the return on investment.

If you plan to live in your home for more than five years, the canvas widens. We offer recommendations based on our understanding of what brings you and your family the most joy.

We provide guidance based on our experience and national trends and guidelines. Nationwide the National Kitchen & Bath Association, found that kitchen remodeling costs break down as follows:

Design fees: 4%
Installation: 17%
Appliances and ventilation: 14%
Cabinetry and hardware: 29%
Countertops: 10%
Lighting: 5%
Flooring: 7%
Doors and windows: 4%
Walls and ceilings: 5%
Faucets and plumbing: 4%
Other: 1%

There is always something unexpected that throws a wrench into the best-laid remodel plans. That is why we advise our clients to budget for a 20% contingency to address those inevitable unexpected occurrences.

We understand that you don’t have an unlimited budget. That’s why we help you identify the components and elements of your new kitchen that will have the most meaning. One of our clients had their heart set on a marble countertop for the island. We were able to offset that expense by specifying an engineered stone and a more cost-effective tile for the rear wall of the kitchen. It was beautiful.

Determining funding sources is another part of the budgeting process. Many of our clients use home equity loans to finance their renovation, especially now with interest rates at record low levels. If you do take an equity loan, you need to factor in loan origination fees and interest into your budget. Also, expect to have to provide a deposit at the start of the project and pay for installation on a predetermined schedule based on completion of different phases of the project.

Budget plans should also include where you are going to live, eat and cook during the renovation. Many of our clients set up mock kitchens either on their deck, using their grill as the main appliance for cooking and setting up a refrigerator nearby on the inside of the home. If you don’t want to use paper plates and plastic cutlery, you need to figure out where you will wash dishes, pots and pans.

You most likely will eat out more often. Factor the cost of restaurant dining into your budget.

A tried and true technique for sticking to the budget is not to allow for budget creep by deviating from the original plan. That’s why it is so important to work with a professional organization that knows the right questions to ask and can develop a design that meets your goals, dreams and budget.

If you would like help developing a budget for your kitchen remodel, please call our showroom at (215)-657-6110 or come see us at 2124 Moreland Road, Abington, PA 19001.

Whats The Deal: Style and Personality

Fri, 05 May 2017 09:05:34 GMT

They say that the kitchen is the heart of the home, and we believe it’s true. Your kitchen is a central gathering space for family and friends, and its design speaks to your personality and sets the tone for your home.

If you’re considering a kitchen remodel or planning to install a new kitchen, it stands to reason that you should spend some time creating a functional yet beautiful space. Selecting designs to suit your taste and lifestyle can be overwhelming, but we’re here to help you make choices on everything from wall color to cabinet doors. To get started, take a look at three of the most common design styles below. Consider what appeals to you and come to the showroom to explore the options with our professional design team.

Contemporary

The contemporary kitchen is sleek and sophisticated. It combines art and function and keeps clutter to a minimum. Interesting materials make contemporary kitchens stand out. When it comes to countertops, granite and marble are an elegant choice, while concrete, limestone and stainless steel counters are coming into fashion. For cabinets, the most common materials are highly polished wood or acrylic. Simple door styles exemplify the crisp, clean lines of contemporary design. A pop of color adds character to the contemporary kitchen. This may be achieved through art, a bright mosaic tile backsplash or a vibrant floor finish.

Traditional

Timeless and graceful forms give traditional kitchens a warm and classic feel. Floor plans are typically open, allowing for formal or casual entertaining. Traditional kitchens often include natural materials on the floors, and you might see marble, brick, stone or even wood on the backsplash. Traditional kitchens generally include more ornate molding and trim; elegant cabinets in cherry, walnut and mahogany and antique fixtures and/or appliances. The traditional kitchen incorporates soft, muted colors such as shades of cream, white, taupe, light gray or green.

Transitional

Transitional style is a balance of traditional and contemporary furniture, finishes, materials and fabrics equating to a classic, timeless design. A mixture of organic and man-made materials is a cornerstone of transitional design. Cabinets in a transitional kitchen have a streamlined profile; they are generally made of wood with simple paneled doors and sport sleek hardware. Transitional styles layer warm neutral colors and feature textural elements that add visual spark. Minimal accessories and ornamentation add to the casual and classic sophistication.