Impressive Kitchen Backsplashes

Sorry, folks.  I have been keeping busy with design and install projects for the past few months so I have not had time to answer questions on the blog.  Instead of the regular Q&A, I have posted some pictures of awesome ideas for the kitchen backsplash.  Enjoy!

Ceramic Tile

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Reclaimed Wood

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Stoneware Clay Tile 

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Cobblestone

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Bookmatched Marble

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Metallic Mosaic Tile

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Backpainted Glass

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Image Print on Glass

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Mirrored Glass Tile

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Wallpaper

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A Lively Laundry Room

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Q.  As a mother of four, most of my day is consumed by washing, drying, and folding laundry.  I have a finished basement and a small room for the washer and dryer.  The laundry room has no natural light and wide open white walls.  Any ideas on how I can make the room more inspirational?
- Judy

A.  Thumbs down to the monotonous task of laundry!  If only it could do itself.  Since that isn't possible, another way to make it more enjoyable is to create a space that you actually want to be in.  No need to blow the budget.  Set the amount you want to spend, gather ideas for the overall look you desire, and seek out the supplies.

Just a few items can transform a lonely laundry room into a lively place to spend loads of your time. A cool new light fixture, simple cabinetry (or repainting existing cabinetry), inexpensive shelves, storage bins or apothecary jars, and some funky wallpaper (stencil or paint if you are the practical type) can combine to make a more inviting and more functional space.

The new look may even inspire one of your four children to help you with the chores!
- Danielle

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Vintage-Inspired Schoolhouse Lights

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Q.  I adore those metal and clear glass lights with antique bulbs seen in the magazines but question their practicality. How much light do they offer and how often will I need to dust and clean fingerprints?  Are there any lighting alternatives with a vintage style?
-Betty


A.  According to the Merriam-Webster Dictionary, "vintage" used as a noun is defined as a period or origin of manufacture.  As an adjective, it is defined as old, recognized, and enduring interest, importance, or quality.  When describing home decor, there isn't a true definition.  The term can be all encompassing or be broken down into categories such as "antique", "industrial", "vintage modern", "vintage country", "shabby chic", and "retro" each meaning something different to an individual.

Vintage home decor can pay homage to the Bauhaus style or Mid-Century Modern era of furniture and accents but vintage can also embrace an eclectic look which incorporates pieces from various styles.  Vintage can even be considered as the repurposing of salvaged items such as those found in old factories, warehouses, thrift shops, and estate sales.   All in all, vintage items evoke nostalgia.

L to R: Restoration Hardware, Pottery Barn, Ballard Designs

There has been a resurgence in the past few years of vintage reproductions giving way to new design styles.  Lighting is one element that has received particular attention. Store catalogs and home decor magazines are showcasing metal domes, clear or colorful glass pendants in various shapes, or caged hanging fixtures housing a single antique filament bulb.  All of the options are very exciting but can be overwhelming at the same time.

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You say that you want "vintage" but would prefer function and low maintenance.  Antique filament bulbs create a warm amber glow which flatters a space but ultimately won't deliver enough light for daily tasks.  They also consume much more energy than standard incandescent bulbs adding to your electric bill.  Any light fixture should be cleaned occasionally.  Clear glass and metal shades would require more than regular cleaning.  I believe that opaque glass would be a good fit.  It masks dust better than other materials and diffuses light throughout the space as opposed to directing light like the metal shade.

Narrowing down the options based on your preferences, I would suggest a schoolhouse light.  "Schoolhouse" is another vintage style that is currently trending and mixes well with any decor.  Schoolhouse has a nostalgic allure: timeless, charming, and simple.  In the first half of the 20th century, opaque glass globes hung in classrooms, courthouses, libraries, and other public buildings.  As they gained popularity, geometric forms, metal fittings, and bands of color slightly transformed the clean, utilitarian look.  Reproductions are almost identical to the original but with a modern flair.

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If you like the schoolhouse light idea but are not keen on the organic shape, how about a light that combines the classic opaque globe with the cool metal dome as seen in the image below?  Last but not least, you can always pair the lights of your aforementioned adoration with other sources such as recessed cans, but the fixture would be mainly used for ambience.  Your light fixture will make a statement like a piece of artwork but will not necessarily be as functional as you may want.

Once you make a decision on the style, you'll just need to narrow down the type of fixture (pendant, sconce, flush mount, etc.), the size, the finish (chrome, satin nickel, oil rubbed bronze, etc.) and the quantity!  I am curious to see what you end up choosing.  Please write back and share.

Thanks - Danielle

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The Painted Ceiling

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Q.  I would like some color in our new kitchen but my husband insists on white walls, white cabinets, gray countertops, stainless steel appliances, and dark wood floors.  Sounds drab, doesn't it?  Any way to spice it up?
-Jeff

A.  Seems that your partner knows exactly what he wants.  You desire color but you don't clearly define what, where, or how.  Spend some more time thinking about your preferences for the space and work on articulating them.  If you are having trouble with descriptions, search for images in books, magazines, or online that can help express your idea.

I suggest taking an accent color to the ceiling.  Applying a color to the ceiling can dramatically alter your character of the space.  Color can always be added with towels, art, window coverings, upholstered furniture, etc, but the right paint color can really tie a room together. If the walls are to remain white, there is no rule that says the ceiling also needs to be white.  A color on the ceiling can add charm, contrast, and variety to the room.

Choose your color wisely.  Soft muted tones such as light blues and greens are a great choice because they can make a person feel relaxed.  A light lavender can give the illusion that the room is open to the sky above.  Or go high energy with a bold magenta or lime green.  Just make sure the color compliments the details of the room and/or adjoining rooms.  Select something you won't grow tired of.

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Consider the ceiling height and detail.  If you have low ceilings, a dark color which would make the space seem even lower but also evoke cozy intimacy.  A lighter color will visually raise the ceiling.  If you have a ceiling that naturally attracts attention such as coffering, planks, beadboard, or exposed beams, a dose of color will add to even more visual interest.  Paint the recessed areas to create contrast and showcase the molding and other trim. 

Consider the amount of natural light and sources of artificial light in the space as well.  Sunlight enhances the purest perception of color, but the intensity changes throughout the day. Shadows are a challenge.  If you have incandescent or halogen bulbs, you will also observe changes in the appearance of the color.  Finally, select the right paint finish.  Flat is typically recommended for ceilings because it has the lowest reflective quality and hides imperfections but semi-gloss is becoming popular on plank ceilings to reflect the light and draw attention to the detail.

If you feel that the lack of color will be boring and have a negative feel for you, have an honest discussion with your husband.  You both should be happy in the environment you live in.  If you still can't come to an agreement, hire a kitchen designer.  Not only is a designer skilled in solving design issues, but also can be a good mediator.

Best of luck!
-Danielle

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Being Sustainable

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Q.

How do I choose sustainable products for my kitchen renovation?  I'm overwhelmed with the remodel as it is.  Is there a way to narrow down the options?  I want to be as green as possible.

-Sue

A.

Home remodeling is very stressful, but it's great that you are also thinking about the impact of your project on the environment. Not only should you live and work in a healthy space, but also know that the decisions you make affect people and places outside your own home. There are many opportunities to implement sustainable practices during a kitchen remodel and plenty of resources to select from. Take a deep breath and remember that your beautiful new space will be worth your time, effort, and frustration in the end.

The goal of green building is to choose products and materials that use energy efficiently, improve indoor air quality, conserve water, reduce waste, and protect natural ecosystems. You can consult with a certified designer and/or contractor with experience in sustainability in addition to doing some research on your own. The United States Green Building Council's (USGBC) Green Home Guide is a good start! greenhomeguide.com

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While researching products that will be purchased for use in your home, look for items that have been certified by a third-party organization such as the Kitchen Cabinet Manufacturers Association (KCMA), Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), or National Association of Home Builders (NAHB). Environmentally responsible programs have been developed to help consumers easily identify green products. The list below are examples of just a few:

• Select cabinetry that uses FSC-certified materials, has no added urea formaldehyde, uses low-VOC adhesives and finishes, and/or has the ESP seal - greencabinetsource.org
• Select appliances that are energy efficient. Look for the Energy Star label - energystar.gov
• Select plumbing fixtures that conserve water. Look for the WaterSense label - epa.gov/watersense
• Select paints that are no- or low-VOC and/or has the GREENGUARD label - greenguard.org/files
• Select interior finish materials that are non-toxic, reusable, renewable, and/or recyclable such as linoleum or cork floors and engineered countertops. Look for the Cradle-to Cradle label - c2ccertified.org

Moreover, you should choose a ventilation hood that vents to the outside rather than recirculates to improve indoor air quality. You can conserve energy by maximizing daylight in the space with efficient windows and selecting materials from local sources to minimize transportation demands.  Lastly, consider donating your old cabinetry, appliances, plumbing and or lighting fixtures to charitable organizations. Someone else may be able to reuse or repurpose them and you may be able to get a good tax deduction.

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Being green doesn't just end when your remodel is complete. You can continue practices by recycling, composting, reducing waste, buying local foods from farmer's markets, bringing reusable bags to the grocery store, growing your own herbs, limiting use of harsh chemicals, conserving water and electricity in daily routine, and reading books and blogs about sustainability. If you are still feeling overwhelmed with the process, keep in mind that you don't have to do it all. Do what you can. Any little bit helps!

Good luck with your project! -Danielle

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Dual Fuel Ranges

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Q.

My wife and I are interested in buying a new range. We want to donate our gas range and purchase a dual fuel. We are beginning to research dual fuel. What are the advantages and disadvantages?

- Pete

A. 

A range is a kitchen appliance with both a cooktop and an oven. In the past, homeowners could only choose between all gas or all electric. Today there more choices: gas, electric, induction, and dual fuel. Typically, dual fuel ranges offer a gas cooktop and an electric oven.

Dual fuel is preferred among professional chefs because gas cooktops allow for a quick response and heat control accruacy along with the visual confirmation of a flame. An electric oven is favored because it gives better heat distribution, particularly when combined with a convection fan which circulates the oven air evenly and reduces bake time (although a convection fan is not exclusive to electric ovens).

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Dual fuel ranges come with many features depending on the model. While 30" is a standard width, sizes range from 24"- 60". Choose between freestanding or slide-in, natural or propane gas, single or double ovens, self-cleaning or not, high altitude or not. There are additional options such as varying sealed burner systems with simmer control, continuous cast-iron platform grates, a large capacity oven, an infrared broiler, a warming drawer, a grill or griddle, a wok ring, electronic timers, and even a sabbath mode. Different finishes and knobs are offered but stainless steel is the most popular.

If dual fuel is ideal, then why doesn't every homeowner have one? Therein lies the disadvantage: they are much more expensive than the conventional models. A duel fuel range can cost anywhere from $2,000 to an astounding $20,000. Moreover, if a conventional model is being replaced, there is a cost to powering a dual fuel. There would need to be both a gas and electric hookup. If you already have gas, chances are you would need an electrician to position a capable outlet or vice versa.

The appliances in your kitchen must conveniently satisfy your culinary needs. If you want a stunning, high-level performing range that is precise and consistent, then dual fuel may be the right fit. There are many brands to choose from depending on your preferences and budget.  Here is a list of some (but not all) manufacturers that offer dual fuel ranges: Aga, American Range, Bertazzoni, Bosch, Dacor, DCS, Electrolux, Fisher & Paykel, Frigidaire, GE, Jenn-Air, Kenmore, KitchenAid, LaCornue, Thermador, Verona, Viking, Wolf. Check out these sites and more to continue your research.

Thanks for the inquiry! - Danielle

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A Built-in Kitchen Hutch

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Q.
I have a small area in the kitchen I want to use for storage. I need to get my china, extra wine glasses, and some knickknacks out of the boxes in my basement. Should I buy a stand alone hutch or have one built to match the cabinetry? I don't plan to change our current cabinets so they probably won't match exactly. Will that look ok?
- Mary

A.
If you have the space, a hutch in the kitchen or dining room is perfect for extra storage and display. It provides organization for extra dishes and glasses, linens and trays, or even baking ingredients and utensils. Typically, there are doors and/or drawers on the lower half and doors with glass or open shelving on the upper half. The upper half can either sit directly on the countertop or have no bottom rail so that it leaves the countertop open.

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Whether it's built-in or a freestanding piece is really up to you. With a custom built-in you can make it whatever size and have whatever features you wish. You can choose to either have open shelving, glass doors, closed doors, or a combination. It can even be built to look like it's freestanding. If you go with a freestanding furniture piece, you can always stain or paint it to make it your own or adorn the drawers and doors with different pulls and knobs to update the look. A new countertop material can be added, if possible. If you choose a freestanding that doesn't come in two pieces, just remember to measure your doorways to make sure it will fit through.

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You can try to match it to the existing cabinetry although it may be challenging to find the exact same finish and door style. Different can look great if it's done well. You can either blend it with other accents in the room or have it stand out as the new focal point of your space. By blending it, the finish or color you choose can be balanced in other accessories. For example, a black hutch is balanced by black counter stools with window treatments that have a black pattern. By making it the focal point, it should stand out with color or decoration. Put those knickknacks to good use. Whatever you choose, the hutch will look great and the extra storage will be even better!

Thanks! - Danielle

Island Seating Clearances

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Q.
I want to seat three at my new island. It is at the same height as the rest of the countertops. It will be a plain rectangular island without a sink or cooktop. I'd like a few cabinets underneath for storage. How large should the island be in our medium sized kitchen?
- Kathy

A.
The size and layout of your kitchen will determine the size and shape of your island based on the minimum requirements for clearances. There are a few different ways you can configure seating for three but you must pay attention to the clearances for the work aisle, walkway, and traffic in addition to the seating clearance. The National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA) has established guidelines to provide planning access standards. These guidelines reflect current kitchen and bath industry practices as well as building codes and future trends. They are suggestions to help create a safe, effective environment.

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The NKBA recommends the following for seating clearances:

• 30" high counters - allow at least a 24" wide by 18" deep knee space per diner
• 36" high counters - allow at least a 24" wide by 15" deep knee space per diner
• 42" high counters - allow at least a 24" wide by 12" deep knee space per diner

The NKBA also suggests the following clearance for walkways, work aisles, and traffic:

• the width of a walkway should be at least 36"
• the width of a work aisle should be at least 42" for one cook and at least 48" for multiple cooks
• the width of a clearance behind a seated diner varies on the amount of traffic that passes behind
• If there is none, allow 32" from the counter to the wall or other obstruction
• If there is traffic, allow 36" from the counter to the wall or other obstruction to edge past
• If there is traffic, allow 44" from the counter to the wall or other obstruction to walk past

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This means that if you would like to seat everyone along the same edge, your island should be 72" wide (or 6') by at least 40" deep (assuming the base cabinets are a standard 24" deep). If your kitchen is smaller and does not allow for proper walkway or traffic clearances, you could group two diners along one edge and one diner on an adjacent edge. The minimum width should then be approximately 63" wide (24"+ 24"+ 15" for leg clearance). You can also modify the depth of the base cabinets to 21" deep for a 36" deep island. Again, these are merely recommendations. The measurements are slightly flexible so adjust them to your own level of comfort.

Good luck! - Danielle

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Laundry in the Kitchen

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Q.
I am renovating my kitchen and want to put the W/D in there. Not in the next room or in the hallway but in. the. kitchen. I want to get them out of our unfinished and downright scary basement. Don't have a mudroom and don't want to put them upstairs. Most of my time is spent in the kitchen anyway so is there any reason not to?
- Julie

A.
Having a washer and dryer in the kitchen makes so much sense. I wish mine were in that convenient of a location! You don't need a large kitchen either. It can be done in any size space. In fact, many condominiums do this out of necessity. You can either keep those appliances exposed, hide them in cabinetry, or tuck them away in a closet (or perhaps in the space that was meant to be a pantry).

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The size of a washer and dryer is important when fitting them into cabinetry or under a countertop so be sure to check the dimensions. In a closet or tall cabinet, they must be stacked. If they will be exposed, consider how the finish will coordinate with the other appliances in the space. If you are using an existing washer and dryer that are not front loaders or stackable, you will be more limited in placement. There must be a water hookup and electrical outlet so you will need to factor in the cost of having those added if they aren't already existing or in the correct place.

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There are other issues to consider. Think about the amount of laundry that will need to be done. Is it just yourself or the entire family? Where will you be sorting the laundry before it goes into the wash? Will you have enough counterspace for folding? Do you want to be folding on your prep area? Is there a place to store baskets, detergents, and hangers if needed?  If these aren't issues for you, I say why not?

Best of luck! - Danielle

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