February 2018 - Solid Surface Countertops Toronto: Commercial & Residential

Bringing Warm Elements to Your Kitchen

Your kitchen is the heart of your home. It is where people gather and where food is produced. By bringing warm elements to your kitchen you enhance that heart and make it beat even stronger. To help you decide how to include warm elements in your kitchen, here are a few ideas.

Gold and Brass

Chrome and silver are nice accent colors, but they have the potential of feeling cold. If you want an alternative, try gold or brass. These colors can be overwhelming on a large scale, so start small. Cupboard hardware has always been a simple yet effective place to add personality in your kitchen. Gold or brass hardware can bring a warm element to your kitchen.

Gold or brass picture frames are also a great idea. While there might not be a lot of wall space in your kitchen, if you have the opportunity to hang a picture, put it in a warmer-colored frame to add depth to your kitchen.

Accessorize and Personalize

Kitchens are not just about function. You spend way too much time in a kitchen for it to not reflect your personality. Add accessories to give your kitchen a personal touch. This shouldn’t be an overwhelming amount, as otherwise your kitchen can begin to feel cluttered. If you have a collection of old, well-loved cookbooks, find a place to display them. If you collect vases, make sure they are cleaned and put them together on a shelf. Antique plates from your grandmother can be hung on the wall. Keep accessories to a central theme, but don’t be afraid to make your kitchen represent yourself.

Use textures

Textures are an easy way to bring instant warmth to any kitchen. Chances are there is a window in your kitchen. Put up a simple curtain topper in a warm, playful pattern to add personality to your kitchen. Warm colors like a deep cream, or traditional patterns like a plaid, will add warmth and help frame your natural light source.

Your kitchen table can also use texture. There are many options here, from tablecloths to placemats to cloth napkins. Choose the option that best works for you. If you want to make sure that your kitchen surface remains visible, cloth napkins may be the best way to go. You can even take the extra step and find your own fabric and have a sewer make a set for you. Textures will help make your kitchen a warm room to be in.

Keep Focused

Keep focused on your kitchen’s purpose. Kitchens are meant to bring people together. They are meant to provide nutritious and tasty food. Kitchens should not be hidden. They should be the focal point of a home. Use this knowledge when you decorate your kitchen. When you bring warm elements to your kitchen you signal to everyone else that they are welcome here.

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How to Choose the Right Bathroom Sink

right bathroom sink

Choosing a bathroom sink depends on many factors. Which bathroom you’re shopping for, how much space you have, and what functionality you want. Before you make any decisions, here are some pros and cons of some common types of sinks that are available.

Top Mount Sink

This is probably the most common sink. It sits on top of the counter. Most of the sink is below the counter, with the rim being on top of the counter and visible. They work with pretty much any countertop material. They’re quite easy, and inexpensive to install. The only downside is that if there is any water spill, you won’t be able to wipe it straight into the sink. It works well for ensuites or minimalist design schemes.

Undermount Sink

An undermount sink sits underneath the counter, with the rim fixed to the underside of the countertop. It’s a seamless look, and water spills can be wiped directly into the sink from the counter. Undermounted sinks can only be used with stone, or other solid surface countertops. It can’t be used with laminate, as it can’t be sealed from moisture. It’s also a more expensive option than a top mount sink.

Wall Mounted Sink

A wall-mounted sink is fixed directly to the wall, so there’s no countertop. It doesn’t have any cabinets, so your bathroom will look bigger, spacious and less cluttered. It does mean that the plumbing needs to be inside the wall, to give a cleaner look. The only minus is that it decreases the amount of storage space. It’s a great look for small bathrooms.

Pedestal Sink

A pedestal sink is a simple option and one that makes up for any plumbing challenges. The pedestal can be used to hide any plumbing, and the sink sits on top. It works well for period, and traditional homes. It does mean that there isn’t much storage.

Semi recessed Sink

A semi-recessed sink can be a great option for bathrooms with limited space, as it still gives some storage space. It sits on the counter but is partly recessed into top and cabinets. It sits closer to the front of the countertops, so it’s a good option for people with limited mobility. As there’s no countertop at the front of the sink, any water spills are more likely to end up on the floor.

Wash plane Sink

Wash plane sinks are slim, sleek, and stylish. They’re often seen in hotels, and restaurants. They can be ceramic, porcelain, glass, or even marble, engineered stone, or granite. They’re a fantastic option for powder rooms, as they’re a space saving sink. They aren’t suitable for ensuites or full-size bathrooms, as the basin is shallow and has no plug.

Vessel Sink

A vessel sink should sit completely on top of the counter, but some may sit a little below. They make a statement and can be a beautiful feature piece. You will need to carefully plan counter height, as vessel sinks can be quite tall. It can be difficult to clean around the base, and the back of the sink.

All in One Sink and Countertop

An all in one vanity unit has a sink that’s moulded as part of the countertop. It’s easy to clean and is available in a wide range of colours and materials. They are usually available in set sizes, but you may be able to have one custom made. The design can mean that you don’t have a lot of flat counter space.