It is not uncommon to walk in most kitchens today and see some sort of an island.  Kitchens are bigger and can more easily accommodate an island.  Today’s kitchen islands have purpose as well as style and function. 

When people think about the cost of a remodel many of them will often wonder if it is something they can do themselves.  Some will even attempt it and more often than not they end up getting in over their head and making some costly mistakes.  They order the wrong products, the cabinets don’t fit the space, or they are not aware of little design tweaks that have to happen.  Using an experienced designer is well worth it.

When looking at kitchen trends for 2015 we notice homeowners are choosing brighter and bolder colors.  While white stills remains the number one custom cabinet color, we are also seeing a lot of gray and other colored cabinets as well.  Homeowners are moving away from the traditional and choosing a colored cabinet with more neutral wall tones or a more neutral custom cabinet finish with accents of color.  Today’s kitchen designers have noticed colors being used in a variety of new and innovative ways.

If you walk into almost any home chances are they have some type of a pet.  Many homeowners consider their pets as much a part of the family as any member.  In fact about 68 percent of homes in America own some type of pet.  A majority of those homes have a least a dog or cat, with many of them having multiple pets. 

While nobody likes germs, there are many places in the kitchen that germs can accumulate and build up.  While there are many cleaners out there that will kill the bacteria, they will also ruin the finish on your cabinets and countertops.  It’s important that you learn what products are safe to use on your countertops and new cabinets. Taking care of your kitchen will give you a kitchen that will look new for years.

Summer is here and we are spending more time outdoors in the yard.  It’s time to fire up the grill and enjoy the fresh air and sunshine. If you have driven around you have probably noticed a new trend that is catching on, outdoor kitchens and living spaces. 

Homeowners today have so many options and no longer have to be outside cooking at the grill while everyone socializes indoors.  With new and innovative cabinets and designs, many outdoor living spaces are rivaling the indoors.  No need to run back and forth to get what you need.  

An outdoor kitchen can be stocked with everything you need including the sink, refrigerator and other appliances.  It can also have natural seating areas so you can talk to your guests while you work.

As the use and style of bathrooms has changed so has the overall look.  Bathrooms are more than just a place to shower and get ready in the morning.  In many homes they resemble a living room and have become a retreat.  Where they  used to be sterile and cold, today they are warm and welcoming.  Just like many kitchens today they reflect the personality and style of the homeowner.  

It’s not uncommon to go in almost any home and see there is some type of a mudroom or designated area that is meant to take the place of the mudroom. However, in many households many of these areas end up becoming a dumping ground or a junk room.  The whole purpose of having a place to put things when you walk in the door is defeated.  So why is that?  In many instances the mudroom was just created without a lot of thought.  

When it comes to remodeling a kitchen choosing the cabinets, layout, and countertops are all important, but it is the little custom touches that make the biggest impact.  When customizing your Chicagoland custom kitchen it is an opportunity to reflect your personality. This can be done through the use of colors, texture, and patterns.  Adding texture can give your kitchen that remarkable look that makes people say “Wow!”

It’s no surprise that every time you turn around there is some new material or option for backsplashes.  Having choices can be good, but at the same time also a little overwhelming.  There are a lot of different things to consider when choosing your kitchen backsplash material for your remodel.