• When To Choose Quartz Over Granite

    selection of natural and artificial kitchen and bath countertop materials

    Granite is a natural stone valued for its distinctive patterns and traditional look. Quartz is an artificial material made from natural stone particles combined with resins, forming a surface that is impermeable, low-maintenance, and highly customisable. Their selection is based on factors such as design flexibility, durability, and care requirements. Here’s when to choose quartz countertop installation over granite:

    Choose for Durability

    Use quartz when installing a surface that is resistant to heavy use in kitchens or bathrooms. The material is non-porous, making it difficult for liquids to leak in. This prevents stains from substances such as wine, coffee, or oils. It also makes it simple to clean, as you wipe spills off the surface.

    Quartz countertop installation also inhibits bacterial growth, boosting cleanliness without additional chemical processes. It doesn’t require resealing after the initial sealing, unlike natural stone, which requires ongoing maintenance. Its hardness of 7.0-7.5 on the Mohs scale means that knives or utensils cannot scratch it, making it durable for everyday use.

    Quartz’s resistance to chipping makes it suitable for busy families or high-traffic areas. It is also water and heat-resistant and can be used around sinks and stoves with limited precautions. Quartz offers long-term performance and low maintenance, making it a practical option for daily surfaces.

    Choose for Variety

    Quartz is also the ideal choice when you require an extensive range of colors, designs, and finishes to suit any design style. It can imitate natural stones such as granite and marble, providing aesthetics without the maintenance burden. Quartz may also feature contemporary patterns, such as concrete-like textures or metal accents. The polished surface finish provides a glossy look, while the honed or matte surfaces offer a soft, low-profile appearance. Its flexibility allows it to complement both traditional kitchens and modern commercial spaces.

    Choose for Customization

    Select quartz where you require exact cutting and edge selection to match specific layouts or designs. Slabs may be tailored to the necessary thickness to enhance durability or create a visual effect. Edge details, including beveled, rounded, squared, or waterfall, provide further customization.

    Quartz goes beyond countertops to backsplash, built-in sinks, islands, and tabletops. The uniform pattern and color provide smooth, continuous surfaces across large areas. The professional installation makes it strong, aligned, and has maximum visual appeal. Quartz is also suitable for commercial applications, offering the same style across different surfaces.

    Choose for Low Care

    Quartz is an appropriate option when low maintenance and long service life are priorities. Cleaning can be done with soap and water alone, without harsh chemicals, and the stain- and scratch-resistant properties help maintain its appearance despite heavy use. Quartz is less absorbent than natural stone, which helps prevent discoloration and bacterial growth. It does not crack or warp under normal temperature variations. This material is safe for heavy use and suitable for residential or commercial applications.

    Schedule Quartz Countertop Installation

    Quartz countertop installation is a good option when durability, design flexibility, customization, and low maintenance are key. It has a long service life, requires minimal maintenance, and offers a broad range of aesthetic options. Quartz can be used in kitchens and commercial spaces without compromising style or comfort, according to homeowners and designers. Browse quartz selections now to find the best style for your countertops.

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  • Designing a Multi-Functional Kitchen for Entertaining

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    Remodeling your kitchen allows you to add features that improve its functionality and efficiency. If you frequently entertain, specific design updates, such as larger countertops, can make the kitchen more functional for hosting. Collaborating with a kitchen remodeling company helps you create a multi-functional space that caters to your entertaining needs. Here are some ways to design a multi-functional kitchen for entertaining:

    Maximize Counter Space

    Counter space enables you to set up a buffet-style serving area and prep food when entertaining guests. You can use a kitchen island or peninsula to increase your counter space. If you have limited space, adding pull-out countertops or fold-down tables creates additional work surfaces. With kitchen remodeling, you can design your counters with entertainment in mind.

    Counter space offers a social area for your guests, allowing them to sit and chat while you cook. You may add barstools to the counter for a more casual dining option. The counter also provides space to set out snacks and drinks during parties or gatherings. For an open kitchen layout, adding an island with a counter can serve as a natural divider between the cooking and living spaces. This allows for easy interaction with guests while still allowing food to be prepared.

    Incorporate Smart Storage

    Designing your kitchen with storage options creates a more organized and functional space. A clutter-free environment is possible with pull-out cabinets, drawers, and shelves. You get to maximize the space in your kitchen, making it easier to store and find items. Some innovative storage options to use include:

    • Pull-out pantry shelves for easy access to dry goods
    • Customized drawers for pots, pans, and other cooking utensils
    • Vertical dividers for cookie sheets and cutting boards
    • Spice racks attached to cabinet doors

    Enhance Lighting Design

    Adding lighting design to your kitchen creates a welcoming atmosphere and makes it easier to work in. You may install dimmer switches for different moods and tasks and use LED lights for energy efficiency. Pendant lights over the island or dining table serve as a decorative element and can also provide task lighting for dining. Under-cabinet lighting illuminates work surfaces and can be used as night lights for those midnight snacks.

    Add Seating Options

    Integrating seating options into your kitchen design allows for a more functional and inviting space. A breakfast bar or island with stools not only adds extra seating for guests but also provides a place to eat meals. Balancing your kitchen’s layout with seating options can create a more social atmosphere.

    A designated seating area in the kitchen allows for convenient interaction between the cook and guests. This can be beneficial when entertaining or simply catching up with family members while preparing meals. Include comfortable seating and a small table for games or homework to make your kitchen even more multi-functional.

    Invest in Kitchen Remodeling

    Engaging a home remodeling company to design and renovate your kitchen supports a custom solution. You can choose from a range of materials and install new countertops or cabinets that are durable and visually appealing. Contact a kitchen remodeling company to get more ideas for your project.

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  • How Water Softeners Improve Appliance Lifespan and Efficiency

    water softener mounted in basement of old home

    Mineral buildup in plumbing and appliances creates resistance that reduces efficiency over time. Hard water accelerates this process, while water softeners help prevent it. By reducing strain, appliances operate more efficiently and maintain more stable internal conditions. Here’s how water softeners improve appliance lifespan and performance:

    Reduced Scale Buildup

    Softer water reduces mineral deposits that commonly accumulate inside household appliances. Mineral scale can interfere with moving parts, eventually hindering smooth operation. When internal components face fewer obstructions, appliances tend to operate more consistently over time. Cleaner internal surfaces also reduce the likelihood of unexpected maintenance caused by heavy buildup.

    Better Heating Performance

    Heating components operate more efficiently when mineral coatings are removed because nothing is left to insulate or obstruct their surfaces. Without this layer of scale, heat transfers directly into the water, allowing it to reach the desired temperature more quickly and with less energy. Heating systems function more predictably, since their internal components remain in consistent, unobstructed thermal contact.

    Scale-free surfaces also help prevent temperature fluctuations that can occur during repeated heating cycles, particularly when buildup acts as an uneven barrier. By reducing mineral interference to very low levels, water softeners limit the efficiency losses that typically develop in hard-water environments. Over time, these improvements can support better heating performance, lower energy demands, and even contribute to a longer service life for water-heating equipment.

    Lower Energy Consumption

    Softened water allows appliances to use less total power during their regular cycles because the absence of hard-water minerals reduces internal resistance. In hard water, mineral deposits can restrict water flow or impede moving parts, and this added resistance forces motors and heating elements to work harder. When those strains are removed, appliances are able to operate closer to the efficiency levels they were originally designed to achieve.

    Reduced mineral buildup also helps keep appliances in a more stable operating condition, which can contribute to more consistent energy consumption over time. Because components face fewer repeated stresses from scale buildup, long-term mechanical wear may decline, and performance is less likely to degrade unexpectedly. These effects result in lower operational strain and more reliable appliance performance.

    Long Component Life

    Internal parts can last longer because abrasive minerals are no longer present to react with or wear down sensitive components. Pumps, seals, and valves operate more smoothly and efficiently, as softened water greatly reduces friction inside the system. With this decrease in internal stress, appliances are less likely to experience unexpected service interruptions or premature part failures. As these parts maintain their condition over extended periods, the overall system benefits from steadier performance and fewer repairs. Such gains in durability can extend the appliance’s total life cycle and, in many cases, reduce the need for early replacements.

    Get Water Softeners for Your Home

    Softened water creates a less demanding operating environment, which can help appliances run more steadily. When mineral interruptions are minimized, heating and cleaning processes may function more consistently. Lower mineral exposure also lessens wear on internal components, allowing some systems to operate for longer periods between service needs. These improvements may lead to more predictable daily performance. If you want to lessen the impact of hard water on your household equipment, find a reputable water softener supplier today.

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  • new materials for kitchen and bath

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    While most of these lend themselves more to a modern kitchen or bath, it's certainly possible to take advantage of advances in materials science in a more traditional remodel as well. For example, I've seen several new Craftsman kitchens using pre-cast and cast-on-site concrete for countertops, and what looks industrial in a modern setting can look warm and complementary in a classic wooden kitchen. Further, now that dyes and inclusions can be added to concrete to give it a bit more character, it's a much more flexible product than it was when it first became popular as a countertop material several years ago.

    Recycled glass and wood, blocks of pressed fibers, resins and other manufactured materials and even more arcane products are being repurposed as countertop, tile, flooring and more. Take a look at a few products and manufacturers I've discovered in the last few months:

    tile / glass / stone

    • Una Terra sells interesting, unique tiles made all over the world – from Italian specialty glass mosaics to American-made stone, they've got some really neat stuff (as well as high-resolution PDFs so you can see the tile up close, something I wish more vendors offered).
    • Marazzi sells porcelain, glass, ceramic and metal-glaz tiles in a small range of basic shades and tones.
    • Bisazza is the American vendor for a large Italian glass and porcelain mosaic tilemaker.
    • Hakatai are my favorite American tilemakers & sellers. Based in Oregon, they produce hundreds of mosaic tiles in glass and other materials for pools, walls, counters, floors, murals and any other flat surface you can imagine. Well, almost.
    • Sonoma Cast Stone sells concrete, kitchen and bath surrounds, tiles & pavers and other items and materials in a wide array of colors.
    • Concrete Network is not a seller, but rather a sourcing site for folks looking for a concrete contractor. The website also includes a big gallery of photos of concrete in use – as countertops, fireplace surrounds, flooring, furniture, sinks and more.
    • IceStone is made from recycled glass and concrete, and comes in a 24-standard color palette with an infinite number of custom options.

    wood

    • Ebony & Co sell hardwood, antique / salvaged, old-growth pine and bespoke wooden parquetry floors in a huge range of woods and finishes. They are also one of the few wood floring vendors who sell specific grades to be used in conjunction with underfloor heating installations.
    • Bamboo Hardwoods has sold sheets of pressed bamboo lumber for flooring, furniture and other products since 1995. They also have a line of custom bamboo cabinetry for kitchen & bath.
    • Teragren sells bamboo flooring, panels designed for cabinetry and furniture, and veneers.
    • Windfall Lumber sells "sustainably harvested wood products," including flooring, mouldings, countertops, decking and whole timbers.
    • New York City's Habitus sells tile, stone, cement, Japanese stucco, porcelain and more, but what they are known for are their cork products: mosaic tiles, floor and wall panels, fabrics, and more. High resolution PDFs are available for download.
    • Treefrog makes and sells exotic wood laminates in interesting patterns and textures
    • Plyboo is a flexible plywood made from bamboo, and is often used for cabinetry and furnituremaking.

    other stuff

    • Yemm & Hart makes decorative polyethylene sheeting and flooring made from recycled tires, just like the stuff that was under the monkey bars when you were a kid – but colorful, stronger, and it won't break up and track all over the place.
    • Lumicor seems all over the news lately. The product is essentially a type of architectural resin which is strong enough to be used as structural material and interesting enough to be decorative. It can be cast thick or thin, and is sometimes used for countertop and tabletop material. It is often cast with various types of fibers embedded, and can be made in an enormous range of colors, textures and opacities. Their portfolio shows several dozen different uses – in homes, retail settings, office space and elsewhere.
    • Paperstone is what it sounds like: a solid surface material, great for countertops, made from recycled paper that has been transformed under enormous pressure.
    • Richlite is another popular product made from a paper fiber-based composite. It was originally distributed as a surface for commercial kitchens and baths in the 1950s, but is enjoying a resurgence as a domestic surface. It is also used for skateboard parks, of all things! It's generally considered a green alternative to Corian and manufactured granite, as it can very closely resemble those materials.
    • Brooklyn's Bettencourt Green Building Supplies sells many of these items, including Richlite, Paperstone, Plyboo bamboo butcherblock, Durapalm coconut flooring, cork, Kirei board, wheatboard and lots more.

    Additionally, Green Home Guide, which can usually be counted on for good and unbiased advice on building materials, has a guide to choosing countertop material; they also have a buyers' guide to green flooring materials, which should give you some general budget information.

    Finally, don't discount the reliable standbys: Corian kitchen worktops are affordable, last forever, quick to fab and install, and look absolutely fantastic. Many contractors are happy to use something tried and true, rather than playing with new materials they've never encountered before. In the UK, we strongly recommend Unique Fabrications in Milton Keynes, who can take on any job, from complex industrial and commercial spaces to residential kitchens and baths.

    cc-licensed image by sierravalleygirl

  • Marble vs. Quartz: Which Countertop is Right for You?

    Marble vs. Quartz: Which Countertop is Right for You?

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    When it comes to choosing the perfect countertop material for your home, the debate between marble vs. quartz is a common one. Both materials are popular for their beauty and functionality, but they cater to different needs and preferences. Whether you’re renovating your kitchen, upgrading your bathroom, or simply exploring options, this guide will help you understand the key differences, benefits, and considerations to make an informed decision. Let’s dive into the world of marble and quartz to find out which one suits your lifestyle and design goals.

    What is Marble?

    Marble is a natural stone formed from limestone under intense heat and pressure. Known for its timeless elegance and unique veining patterns, marble has been a symbol of luxury for centuries. It’s a favorite choice for homeowners who want to add a touch of sophistication to their spaces.

    Key Features of Marble:

    • Aesthetic Appeal: Marble's natural veining and soft, elegant colors make it a stunning choice for countertops, flooring, and decorative accents.
    • Heat Resistance: Marble stays cool, making it ideal for baking and pastry preparation in kitchens.
    • Unique Patterns: No two marble slabs are exactly alike, offering a one-of-a-kind look. 

    What is Quartz?

    Quartz is an engineered stone made from approximately 90-95% crushed natural quartz and 5-10% resins and pigments. It’s designed to combine the beauty of natural stone with the durability and low maintenance of modern materials. Quartz is a popular choice for busy households and high-traffic areas.

    Key Features of Quartz:

    • Durability: Quartz is highly resistant to scratches, chips, and stains, making it a practical choice for kitchens and bathrooms.
    • Low Maintenance: Unlike natural stone, quartz doesn’t require sealing and is easy to clean with mild soap and water.
    • Consistent Patterns: Quartz offers a wide range of colors and patterns, including options that mimic the look of natural stone like marble.

    Marble vs. Quartz: Key Differences

    To help you decide between marble and quartz, let’s compare them across several important factors.

    Appearance 

    • Marble: Known for its elegant veining and smooth, polished finish, marble exudes luxury and sophistication. It’s perfect for creating a classic or high-end look.
    • Quartz: Offers a more uniform appearance with consistent patterns. It’s available in a variety of colors and styles, including designs that replicate the look of marble.

    Durability

    • Marble: Requires regular sealing and immediate cleaning of spills to prevent staining. Avoid acidic cleaners to maintain its finish.
    • Quartz: Highly durable and non-porous, quartz is resistant to scratches, stains, and heat. It’s a better choice for high-use areas. 

    Maintenance

    • Marble: Requires regular sealing and immediate cleaning of spills to prevent staining. Avoid acidic cleaners to maintain its finish.
    • Quartz: Low maintenance when properly sealed. Regular cleaning with mild soap and water is usually sufficient.

    Cost

    • Marble: Generally more expensive due to its luxurious appeal and limited availability.
    • Quartz: More affordable and widely available, making it a budget-friendly option for many homeowners.

    Applications

    • Marble: Ideal for low-traffic areas like bathroom vanities, fireplace surrounds, and decorative accents.
    • Quartz: Perfect for high-traffic areas like kitchen countertops, flooring, and outdoor spaces.

    Which Should You Choose: Marble or Quartz?

    The choice between marble and quartz ultimately depends on your lifestyle, budget, and design preferences. Here’s a quick guide to help you decide.

    • Choose Marble If: You prioritize aesthetics and are willing to invest in regular maintenance. Marble is perfect for creating a luxurious, timeless look in spaces that don’t see heavy use.
    • Choose Quartz If: You need a durable, low-maintenance material that can withstand daily wear and tear. Quartz is ideal for busy households and high-traffic areas.

    Environmental Impact: Marble vs. Quartz?

    When choosing between marble and quartz, it’s worth considering the environmental impact of each material. Both have their pros and cons in terms of sustainability.

    • Marble: As a natural stone, marble is eco-friendly in terms of its composition. However, quarrying marble can be energy-intensive and may result in significant waste.
    • Quartz: While quartz is an engineered material, many manufacturers use recycled materials in its production. However, the manufacturing process can be resource-intensive.

    Best Uses for Marble and Quartz

    Best Uses for Marble

    Marble’s timeless beauty and luxurious appeal make it a favorite for creating elegant, high-end spaces. However, its softer and more porous nature means it’s better suited for certain applications. Here are the best uses for marble:

    1. Bathroom Vanities

    • Why: Marble’s natural veining and smooth finish add a touch of luxury to bathroom spaces. Its cool surface feels great in a bathroom setting.
    • Tip: Use marble for vanity tops, shower walls, or flooring to create a spa-like atmosphere.

    2. Fireplace Surrounds

    • Why: Marble’s heat resistance and elegant appearance make it a perfect choice for fireplace surrounds. It can transform a simple fireplace into a stunning focal point.
    • Tip: Pair marble with neutral tones to enhance its natural beauty.

    3. Decorative Accents

    • Why: Marble’s unique patterns and colors make it ideal for decorative pieces like tabletops, shelves, or wall cladding.
    • Tip: Use marble accents to add a touch of sophistication to living rooms or entryways.

    4. Baking Stations

    • Why: Marble stays cool, making it perfect for baking and pastry preparation. It’s often used in kitchen islands or dedicated baking areas.
    • Tip: Keep marble baking stations away from high-traffic areas to minimize wear and tear.

    Best Uses for Quartz

    Quartz’s durability, low maintenance, and versatility make it a practical choice for high-traffic areas and modern designs. Here are the best uses for quartz:

    1. Kitchen Countertops

    • Why: Quartz is highly resistant to scratches, stains, and heat, making it ideal for busy kitchens. Its non-porous surface is also hygienic and easy to clean.
    • Tip: Choose quartz in neutral tones for a timeless look or bold colors for a modern vibe.

    2. Bathroom Countertops

    • Why: Quartz’s resistance to moisture and stains makes it a great choice for bathroom countertops. It’s also available in a wide range of colors and patterns.
    • Tip: Pair quartz countertops with marble accents for a luxurious yet practical bathroom design.

    3. Flooring

    • Why: Quartz’s durability and scratch resistance make it suitable for high-traffic areas like hallways, living rooms, and kitchens.
    • Tip: Opt for textured finishes to prevent slipping in wet areas.

    4. Outdoor Kitchens

    • Why: Quartz is highly resistant to weathering, making it a great choice for outdoor kitchens and bar tops.
    • Tip: Ensure the quartz is rated for outdoor use to avoid discoloration from UV exposure.

    5. Commercial Spaces

    • Why: Quartz’s durability and low maintenance make it a popular choice for restaurants, hotels, and office spaces.
    • Tip: Use quartz in high-traffic areas like reception desks or conference tables.

    Resale Value: Marble vs. Quartz?

    If you’re considering the long-term value of your investment, it’s important to think about how marble and quartz might impact your home’s resale value. Both materials are highly desirable, but they appeal to different types of buyers.

    • Marble: Marble is often associated with luxury and high-end design. Homes with marble features, such as countertops or flooring, can attract buyers looking for a premium, elegant aesthetic. However, some buyers may be wary of marble’s maintenance requirements, which could slightly limit its appeal.
    • Quartz: Quartz is a popular choice among homebuyers due to its durability and low maintenance. It’s often seen as a practical and stylish option, making it a safe bet for increasing resale value. Quartz countertops, in particular, are a sought-after feature in kitchens and bathrooms.

    The Installation Process for Indoor Use: Marble vs. Quartz?

    The installation process for marble and quartz differs due to their unique properties. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect.

    Marble Installation: 

    • Precision is Key: Marble’s natural veining and patterns require careful planning to ensure the final installation looks cohesive. Professionals often take extra time to align the veining for a seamless appearance.
    • Fragility: Because marble is softer and more prone to chipping, measurements and templating must be extremely accurate to minimize the need for adjustments during installation.
    • Sealing: Marble requires sealing during and after installation to protect it from stains and damage.

    Quartz Installation: 

    • Easier Process: Marble’s natural veining and patterns require careful planning to ensure the final installation looks cohesive. Professionals often take extra time to align the veining for a seamless appearance.
    • No Sealing Required: Quartz is non-porous, so it doesn’t require sealing during or after installation.
    • Consistent Patterns: Quartz’s uniform appearance makes it easier to template and install without worrying about visible seams.

    FAQs

    1. Is marble more expensive than quartz?

    Yes, marble is generally more expensive than quartz due to its luxurious appeal and limited availability. However, prices can vary depending on the type, color, and origin of the stone.

    2. Can you use marble in the kitchen?

    Yes, you can use marble in the kitchen, but it requires extra care. Marble is prone to staining and etching, so it’s best suited for areas with light use, such as baking stations or islands.

    3. How often do you need to seal quartz?

    Quartz doesn’t require sealing because it’s non-porous. Regular cleaning with mild soap and water is sufficient to maintain its appearance.

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  • 4 ways to save more time in the kitchen as a busy parent

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    We’re pretty sure you’ve heard – and experienced – the news. Life as a parent is tough. All of that disposable time that you once had has since evaporated, and you are left scratching your head at just how to manage your day-to-day life as efficiently as possible.

    It would be fair to say that the kitchen feels like one of the biggest areas of the home with the most pressure associated with it. After all, this has quickly become a common room for families to come together, as well as being the place where much of the cooking and cleaning chores take place.

    This is why we have dedicated today's article all about the kitchen, and just how a busy parent can save time within it. Let's jump into some fast tips to help you along.

    Make sure your appliances are working as efficiently as possible

    When we talk about appliances, we're mainly referring to dishwashers, washing machines and dryers.

    If you don't have any of these in your home, we'd strongly urge you to obtain one now. Fortunately, the time it takes to install a washing machine and other such appliances is really insignificant in comparison to the use you will get out of it. Additionally, if you happen to be a new parent, having these time-saving appliances on hand is absolutely crucial. It sure beats heading to the launderette, or washing the dishes by hand.

    Your freezer is crucial to your success

    If you are serious about making the most of your kitchen from a time perspective, at least tap into the full benefits of your freezer. This is something that allows you to meal prep, and just cook in bulk which can help your plight significantly from a time point of view.

    Additionally, if you can stock it up with packed vegetables or side dishes, it becomes one of those go-to areas for food when times really are getting tough and the day seems to be running away from you.

    Double up on your recipes

    Following on from the previous point, an easy tip is to double up on your recipes and then take advantage of the freezer.

    Far too many of us only cook for the here and now. Instead, cook for the next few days. You don't have to eat it all at once (you have a freezer, after all), but it will shave significant portions of time from your food preparation activities.

    Your kitchen counters need to be cleared at all times

    Finally, let’s conclude with a point about clutter. Your worksurfaces are something that can sometimes feel the brunt of clutter and before you know it you have them stocked with toasters, condiments and anything else that makes their way onto them.

    Have a strict rule to avoid the above. As soon as clutter breaches these surfaces, it won’t stop. It will start to take over and you’ll soon be struggling to carry out basic tasks. Not only that, but clutter can affect your mental health, as strange as that might seem to some of you.

    partnered post • cc-licensed image by Michael Newton

  • remodeling causes stress – oh, really?

    This is certainly old news to anyone who has attempted, completed or is mired in the middle of a home remodel – especially if it’s your own house, and certainly if you are attempting to live there through the project:

    There’s no doubt that a remodeling, addition
    or new construction job brings stress to the homeowners. Just ask me.
    Last spring we added a new upstairs bedroom and a downstairs entryway
    and mudroom, losing our attic space, emptying our garage and losing a
    bay in the process. Where to put the stuff and how to find it again
    were just two of the stresses encountered. We chose to hire a project
    manager, so hiring of all the subs was his problem, but we stressed and
    sweated over every decision. In fact, most veterans of a remodeling
    project will tell you that the two key qualities you need to survive a
    home project are the ability to make decisions and spend money — fast.

    read the whole thing at bobvila.com

  • Lavello Sinks – big, beautiful, stainless – and affordable

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    I’m in the process of remodeling my own kitchen, and found an enormous variety of prices for very similar items. Some sinks – European brands, mostly – were ridiculously expensive, when the exact same sink (in this case, an enormous 36" stainless steel apron-fron) was 1/2 the price or less from an American vendor. I took a closer look – the metal looked the same, it was the same weight and construction, and was probably built at the same factory by the same people!

    You really do need to shop around, and don’t let your contractor suggest an expensive item when you can find the exact same thing for a fraction of the price. I found my beautiful sink from Matt Roberts’ Lavello Sinks and really couldn’t be happier with the sink or the service. Matt is a commercial contractor and property manager who found a great source for sinks that would otherwise go for $1500; he realized that there was a huge need for affordable but good quality stainless sinks, and I’m sure that his business will thrive. His prices are far better than anything else I’ve found elsewhere, and the shipping was super-fast and very affordable. If every transaction and interaction I had to engage with over the course of this remodel was as pleasant, painless (and, again, affordable) as my interaction with Matt, it sure would make the whole process a lot easier!

    Once my kitchen is done – I’m thinking we’re about eight weeks away – I’ll post pictures of the sink installation and the finished project. Until then, if you’re looking for a pretty and modern stainless sink that works very well with an historic kitchen, check him out, and tell him I sent you!

  • recent Craftsman kitchen remodels on Flickr

    My constant urging to check Flickr out for design ideas is probably getting pretty old at this point – sorry about that. Here are three attractive working kitchens, wholly or partially documented in photographs on Flickr:

  • Craftsman Kitchen Remodels III

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    Fourth in our series on kitchen remodels (and about the 25th article on the subject; previous episodes here), this time we’re taking a look at Southern California. High-end kitchens from the area’s best contractors, relatively inexpensive DIY projects and various steps in between:

    • La Jolla’s IS Architecture remodeled this 1914 Craftsman bungalow; the project included "a complicated pier foundation and seismic retrofit." Check out the before & after pictures of the kitchen & bath. They are also responsible for this very pretty coastal Craftsman and its blindingly-white kitchen in La Jolla and a very pretty wood-grain kitchen in this Spanish Revival ranch house in Rancho Santa Fe.
    • Qualified Remodeler magazine’s 2007 Chrysalis Awards – the 14th year these awards have been given to residential and commercial modelers across the country – include a number of great Southern California remodels. A lot of the remodels are pretty hideous, in my own opinion – cabinets that clash with the style of the house, ridiculous French and English country cottage motifs that are inconsistent with the house and neighborhood, things like that. I understand that designers have to do what owners want, but there’s no reason to submit that kind of work for an award. It’s not all overdone, glitzy and ridiculous, though; for example, the winner of the 2007 Best Whole House Remodel under $200,000 award, Moving Mountains Design in Pasadena, did a pretty good job.
    • Stefan Hammerschmidt remodeled his 1924 Venice bungalow, including a spare and functional kitchen. Check out the marble counters and the beautiful stove & giant range hood. Read more about it at the LA Times‘ great remodel-focused blog, Pardon Our Dust, by Kathy Price-Robinson. Another recent column looks at "the best-looking DIY kitchen (they’ve) seen yet." Now, why can’t some big fancy magazine or newspaper hire me to blog for them?
    • PaysonDenney Architects‘ website is a bit difficult to navigate, but the kitchen they produced for another Venice home (scroll down for photos) – right on that community’s Sherman Canal – is worth seeing. I only wish the photos were a bit bigger!
    • Nest Architecture built this "Rustic Canyon Retreat" for two Los Angeles clients; the kitchen, with its butcher block island and all-around windows, is bright & airy.

    photo via Pardon Our Dust