July 19, 2019 By

4 Ways To Make Kitchen Cleanup Easier

4 ways to make kitchen cleanup easierYour kitchen is the life of your home. It’s where everyone gathers to share stories from their day. To unwind and savor the fruits of their labor. But after a shared meal together, there’s the unfortunate necessity of cleaning up. We’re here to help make kitchen cleanup easier for you.

Start with the right surface

First, what are your kitchen countertops made of? There are a lot of unique countertop choices, but not all of them make sense for cleaning. Ideally, you should be able to wipe them clean and not worry about gross germs being stuck in the surface. Solid Surface is an ideal choice. Because there are no cracks or even grout lines to contend with, kitchen cleanup is easier than ever. You can wash the Solid Surface counters down and not worry about anything remaining behind.

Clean as you go

Are you the kind of home cook that produces a beautiful meal, only to leave the massive mess for later? While it might seem like you have no time to clean while preparing your savory dishes, a little can go a long way. Take the few seconds during prep to wipe down a counter or start the soaking process of a pan. Once you become more aware of what can be quickly cleaned, the easier it is to incorporate into your cooking process.

Enlist help

Are there children running around after dinner? It’s never too early to start working on chores. Simple dish drying is always an easy task. Even a toddler can unload the dishwasher with proper supervision. And, if kitchen cleanup is part of the everyday tasks, kids will come to accept its natural order. Furthermore, as they become older, you can add more duties to their list. It’s important for kids to take part in the family household, moreover, the kitchen is the perfect place to start.

Be prepared

Do you have leftovers? Do they need to be transferred to a new serving dish, or can they be served from their container? What can you make ahead of time for a large dinner that can cut down on clean up later on? These little details can quickly add up in saved time.

One other factor of preparation is in the waste regime. Many cities have now adopted a green waste program, which allows you to ‘recycle’ kitchen scraps. Do you have a designated pail for this? What about recyclables? Can they separate easily? If you have a compost in the garden, keep a container next to your food prep to quickly place vegetable peels into it for later. There are many ways to decrease the amount of garbage we produce; you just need to have a system in place ahead of time.

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June 19, 2019 By

Unveiling Solid Surface’s Amazing New Color Selection

unveiling solid surface's amazing new color selection Sometimes you just need the perfect color for your bathroom or kitchen. And sometimes that color just can’t be found. Fortunately, if you’re in the market for a new Solid Surface countertop, that perfect color can be found. Solid Surface already boasts an impressive array of color choices, and those choices have just expanded. The amazing new color selection of Solid Surface products can’t be beaten.

New Color Selection

To expand on their already extensive range of colors, Solid Surface now has 18 new colors. From a collection of grey aggregate, to a deep mahogany color, there are more and more brilliant colors to choose from. There is even deep magenta color and a Laguna blue color. If you’re not sure where to place these Solid Surface design colors, we’ve decided to remind you just how functional this material is.

Kitchen

The kitchen is the heart of the home. It is a place where you can gather, talk, collaborate, and create. There are no limitations in the kitchen. Shouldn’t you have a kitchen that reflects this tone? Thanks to the many colors of Solid Surface, you can choose practically any kitchen counter that you could dream of. This is because Solid Surface is manufactured. You don’t have to hunt for a perfectly marbled countertop that can be used in the whole kitchen. If you have an extensive number of countertops, you can imagine how difficult this can be.

And, thanks to the impressive nature of Solid Surface, you don’t have to worry about any unnatural seams bridging two pieces together. Exact measurements create a product for your exact needs.

Bathroom

Bathrooms are those unique places where you can close a door and transport yourself to a world of peaceful serenity. With a little bit of décor, you can have your own little oasis. Solid Surface has calming colors, soothing motifs, and a never-ending supply of colors to match your vision. Whatever you’re in the mood for, Solid Surface can create the bathroom of your dreams.

Healthcare

It may not be as glamorous as a full-scale kitchen or a relaxing bathroom, but healthcare offices are just as in need of the genius of Solid Surface. Built to be both durable and hygienic, Solid Surface is perfect for healthcare settings the world over.

Whether it’s for the front reception or the back office, Solid Surface countertops bring both practicality and design to the healthcare world. What’s more, their vast color selection means that you can create the ambiance you want for your patients. Gone are the days of clinical feelings when you step into the door. Instead, the warm tones of Solid Surface will await you in any healthcare setting.

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May 19, 2019 By

What Solid Surface Means For High End Retail

what solid surface means for high end retailIf you’ve ever been to Paris, chances are you’ve strolled through the Galleries Lafayette. You probably didn’t buy anything, but it was nice enough just to see how the other half lives. Galleries Lafayette has expanded into Shanghai, China, and with it, they have brought solid surface to create the high end retail look you all know and love.

Crisp aesthetic

High end retail is all about presentation. Clothes are sparser and hung on individual racks. It’s not about bulk buying as it is about buying signature pieces. There is an eye for every detail, and that includes the architecture within the building itself.

Solid surface is able to create whatever look you want. No matter what color or design, there is a sold surface for you. It’s lack of lines also makes it appealing. Who wants to see where two pieces were fused when you can just see a seamless countertop instead?

Wall to wall to wall

Inside the Galleries Lafayette in Shanghai, solid surface can be found in so many areas. The giant columns that anchor the store are all made from solid surface in an elegant glacier white color. The retail countertops allow you to complete your purchase with that same regal look as when you walked through the door. Even the elevator cladding uses solid surface for that seamless, high end look.

Time to rest

Every inch of the Galleries Lafayette was constructed with detail which makes it no surprise that the washrooms were, too. Inside all the washrooms and the nursing room, solid surface is used for an elegant look. The seamless countertops ensure that you never forget that you are indeed inside a high end place.

A window to the heavens

If you aren’t completely bombarded by the beauty inside the Galleries Lafayette, take a moment to look up. Atop the main arcade is a showstopper skylight. This window to the heavens is made possible because of the Corian solid surface cladding. Together with fluid LED light bands, you can look out on the night sky and feel truly humbled.

Into the future

What is really impressive with the Galleried Lafayette in Shanghai is that Corian solid surface is most definitely a path to the future. Instead of trying to use existing materials to fit a project, solid surface allows architects to create their own design. There’s no more playing around and altering plans. Instead, whatever look you want, you can get.

This may seem a bit daunting if you plan on using Corian solid surface in your own home. But the point is that its versatility means that no matter where it is used, solid surface will make a giant impact.

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April 19, 2019 By

The Surprising Link Between Corian Material and Archaeology

the surprising link between corian material and archaeologyYou probably best know Corian material from your kitchen. This synthetic material is durable, hygienic, and versatile. No matter what color or design you’re looking for, you can create a Corian material that will fit your design. While Corian material may be most common in your home, it has a wider array of uses. Interestingly, Corian Solid Surface is able to protect the ancient ruins of Pompeii.History

Almost 2,000 years ago, Mount Vesuvius erupted and scattered ash all over the city of Pompeii in Italy. The ash was so thick that in some places it landed in piles 6 meters high. The result was catastrophic. Those who were not able to escape in time were buried under the ash and the city basically was left a ghost town.

It was centuries later that archaeologists began to take an interest in Pompeii. Once the ash was removed, the entire city was found to be preserved. Pompeii became one of the greatest histories of civilization and was a perfect snapshot into the daily lives of the people of the Roman Empire.

Modern Time

There are still many discoveries to be found in Pompeii, but now the task is to preserve the ruins. The weather is harsh and can do great damage to the millenniums-old city. Structures were needed to protect certain parts of the ancient city. However, because Pompeii is a major tourist attraction, it’s important to have protective structures that also allow visitors to see the wonderous site.

Corian Solid Surface

Many designs were thought of, including traditional surfaces such as glass or wood. Ultimately it was decided that Corian Solid Surface would be the best material. Not only is it durable enough to protect history, but its design is actually nice to look at.

The Corian Solid Surface is used as a sort of rooftop, specifically over a neighborhood of Pompeii that housed the very wealthy. Frames of galvanized steel were created and then the Corian Solid Surface was placed on top. The final color choice was Distinct Tan. This neutral color seamlessly blends in with the natural stone color of the buildings.

The aim for using Corian Solid Surface was to protect history but also bring elements of design. The structures are meant to complement the ancient city and not take away from its natural beauty. If you were to take a quick glance at the city, you might even first think that you’re merely seeing the city as it once was.

Preserving history

The innovative design of Corian Solid Surface means that there are so many possibilities. Many more historical sites face the challenges of weather erosion and tourist interest. As a result there will be an even greater need for protective designs that use Corian Solid Surface.

 

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January 18, 2019 By

4 Objects To Remove From Your Kitchen Counter

4 objects to remove from your kitchen counterYou’ve just spent time and money to renovate your kitchen, including the addition of a new countertop. Now is not the time to hide your investment. The kitchen counter too often becomes the dumping ground, both for small appliances and miscellaneous items. It’s a flat surface which makes it easy to store papers, kid’s projects, and all manner of debris. But why spend money on a new kitchen counter if you can’t actually see it and enjoy it?

The Toaster

Toasters can be used every day, but only for a matter of minutes. It’s time to put the kitchen toaster away. Place it in a cupboard directly under the part of the countertop that it normally sits on. If you move it further away, then it won’t be put away after being used.

It’s also a good idea to place the toaster on a tray. This way any crumbs are caught, and you won’t have to deal with the mess. If you’re not completely convinced, just try the move for a week. Hopefully you’ll realize that it’s not an appliance that needs a permanent home on the kitchen countertop. And, hey, as more people go gluten-free, the toaster might just become a bit of an obsolete appliance, anyways.

Kitchen Utensils

Chances are, you have a bin (or two) or kitchen utensils taking up space on the countertop. This includes spatulas, ladles, and flippers. Do they really need to be on the kitchen counter? It’s just as convenient to open a drawer and choose one while cooking. Find a drawer near the stove for easy use. Then, transfer the utensils into a basket or two, separating based on shape.

Knives

If you’re an avid chef, then there will be an assortment of knives in your kitchen. They might not have a home, and instead live on the cutting board, just waiting to be used. You could find a chopping block to place them in, but this just leads to more clutter. Instead, place a magnetic knife strip on the wall. This is a safe, efficient way of storing your knives.

Paper

No matter how hard you try, it seems like there is always a pile of paper on the kitchen counter. Bills to be paid, coupons to be used, forms to be filled out. You may think that at least all of the papers are in one place, so they can’t get lost. But look inside a junk drawer and there is probably even more paper to be found.

The solution is easy, but hard to follow. Create an organizing area. Have slots or baskets that you can place each item of paper in. And, be sure to go through everything regularly. There’s not point in keeping a basket of coupons that all expired last year. Having a clean countertop is worth the effort of decluttering.

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December 18, 2018 By

4 Kitchen Projects You Don’t Want To Put Off

4 kitchen projects you don't want to put off As you head into the new year, you might start wondering what kitchen projects to tackle. Here are a few that should definitely make your list.

1. Electrical Wiring

Nobody wants to spend money on things that you can’t see. Which is why electrical wiring often gets relegated to the bottom of the kitchen projects list. But electrical wiring is important to focus on. If you live in an older home, have an electrical inspector come in to test the wiring. You could have old wiring or even insufficient wiring. If the previous home owner did a lot of DIY projects, your electrical may not even be up to code.

The result of poor wiring could be as simple as the inconvenience of a blown fuse. Or it could be as dangerous as a fire. The problem is that you don’t know what is going on with your wiring until a problem emerges. Take preventative action and move it to the top of your kitchen projects list.

2. Upgrading Appliances

Kitchen appliances are expensive, and it can be financially difficult to replace them. But if you are running an inefficient refrigerator, you can actually save money with a new appliance. By investing in Energy Star appliances, you will start seeing the savings on your electrical bill immediately. Some utility companies also offer rebates if you upgrade appliances, so you could also save that way. The point is that while the initial price tag may seem high, a new refrigerator or stove might actually be in your budget.

3. Kitchen Countertops

Countertops should be at the top of any kitchen projects list. They will be one of your major purchases, but the impact that they have will make it worth it. In fact, you could get away by cutting a few corners on other projects if your countertops make a big enough splash. There are many types of countertops to choose from, so having an expert opinion is a good idea. A quick consult with a professional will give you a feel for what will work with your existing décor and will open your eyes to many new and exciting types of designs.

4. Lighting

Lighting can seem like a small matter, but it can actually make a big difference in your home. Poor lighting can make even the best kitchens seem dim and dingy. It can also lead to inadequate light over workspaces, making your kitchen less efficient. Before you make your first purchase, though, take a few days to track and map out the paths you make in a kitchen. Then, be sure to plan lighting that will work for your usage. Mix up one or two focal lights with smaller track lighting and accent lighting. If you are replacing a light over the kitchen table, look for a dimmable light to help alter the mood.If you are on a budget but want to start on your kitchen projects, look for lighting to give you a quick, affordable boost.

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November 18, 2018 By

4 Reasons It’s Always A Good Idea To Invest In A Kitchen

4 reasons its always a good idea to invest in a kitchenNot many people have the wherewithal to invest in a complete home renovation. It therefore ends up being the budget that determines just what part of the house gets updated. If you’re not sure if investing in a kitchen is a good idea, here are four reasons why it’s always a good idea to invest in a kitchen.

Selling Value

An updated, modern kitchen will go a long way in selling value, if you choose to move. But don’t wait until you decide to move to invest in a kitchen. After all, you’ll want to enjoy the hard work that you’ve put into it. Even kitchens that are five years old still have a large selling value. When remodelling, try to choose a more neutral, classic choice. This way anyone who looks at your house can envision themselves in it. If you need to add your personality to your kitchen remodel, choose bright walls. Putting on a new coat of paint is easy if you plan on selling in the future.

Energy Savings

There are a lot of appliances in a kitchen, and that means ample opportunity for sky-high utility bills. Investing in new appliances means that you will save when it comes to electrical and even gas bills. Look for Energy Star appliances that have been manufactured to smartly use electricity. Also look for different settings. A dishwasher, for example, that can run quick or half loads means that you won’t have to use as much water to get a small number of dishes clean. Many local utility companies will also offer rebate programs, so check out their websites to see if you can save even more money.

Wear and Tear

The kitchen is the most-used room in a house and can quickly take a bit of a beating. While bedrooms and even the living room usually just need a fresh coat of pain, the kitchen will need a complete overhaul in its lifetime. Knicks in the countertop, broken cabinet hinges, dings in the tile: all are common in a kitchen. It’s definitely not practical to remodel your kitchen every two or three years but start planning on when it makes the most sense. If you have small children, wait until they are in school. This way they’ll not only be out of the house more when the repairs are happening, but they will hopefully be out of the complete mess stage of toddlerhood.

Positive Energy

The final reason why investing in a kitchen is always a good idea is really quite simple. You use your kitchen a lot and want to enjoy it. A kitchen should inspire you and make you want to bring people together. If it doesn’t, start envisioning a new kitchen’s potential so that you can add a bit of joy to the home.

 

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October 18, 2018 By

5 Reasons a Shower Surround is the Way to Go

5 reasons a shower surround is the way to goRemodelling a bathroom is a fun, creative experience, but often the number of choices becomes overwhelming. The focal point is often the shower, as this can be a very large piece in the bathroom. How you design your shower is an important part of the creative puzzle. One design element that is picking up steam is the shower surround. Easy to install, customizable, and pleasant to look at, shower surrounds are the way to go.

Less expensive

Shower surrounds are less expensive than tiling a shower. Most people have a finite budget when it comes to a bathroom remodel, so price is a very important issue. Shower surrounds can help keep your budget in check. Not only will they fit most people’s budget, but because they still look nice, you can use the money that you saved on other elements of the bathroom.

Versatility

No matter the size of your shower, there is a shower surround that will fit the space. There are pre-fab surrounds and there are also custom-made surrounds. So if you have a unique space then no worries as there will be a way for a customized shower surround to fit.

Easy to clean

Shower surrounds are usually just one or two pieces and even these pieces will be expertly sealed together. So, cleaning becomes a lot easier. You can simply spray and wipe down the interior of the shower. Tiles are easy to clean, but the grout in between them is a lot harder. Grout can quickly become discolored and often needs to be cleaned with a special brush.

The silicone seal between tile and a bathtub is also the perfect place for mold to grow. This seal needs to be expertly cleaned. If not, it often needs to be dug up and replaced to keep it looking fresh.

Modern designs

Shower surrounds come in many different varieties, so no matter what your design plans are, there is an option for you. There are flat designs but there are also designs with built-in shelves. Some even have benches built in. Shower surrounds have kept up with modern designs and no longer look out of place in new bathrooms.

No leaks

Leaks in any bathroom are always a concern, no matter the type of material that is used. When you have a shower surround expertly installed, you can be assured that there will be no leaks. Instead the plumber will make sure that the pipes behind the wall are tightly sealed. Only after this is determined will the shower surround be installed.

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August 18, 2018 By

Top 5 Kitchen Color Trends

top 5 kitchen color trends

When selecting a color palette for your new kitchen, it all comes down to personal taste. There are many ways to create a welcoming environment and color is just one of them. Here are the top 5 kitchen color trends this year and ideas on how to achieve the look you want in your kitchen.

1. Bold Colors

Go big or go home with color. Whether it’s neon green, apple red, or deep blue, one of the top kitchen color trends includes pops of color. The nice thing about this trend is you get to decide just how much color is included in your kitchen. And, you can start high or low. Color on the ceiling is certainly a bold move, but one that can separate your kitchen from others. If you’re not sure about being that daring, opt for accent walls, kitchen cabinets, or even a bit of color in your tile.

2. Earth Tones

If you want color but are nervous about making too bold of a statement, then opt for earth tones. Natural browns and tans help create a warm environment in a kitchen. This color choice is easiest seen in kitchen cabinets. Choose natural woods and instead of painting them, stain them. This way the wood grains are accented and become the focal point of the whole kitchen.

3. Gray Tones

While beige once reigned supreme, it has now been taken over by grey. There are many shades of grey, from light off-white to deep storms, so choosing gray again comes down to taste. This neutral pairs well with other bold colors and can help make your kitchen seem open. Gray is one of the kitchen color trends that will stick around for a while.

4. All White

An all white kitchen remains one of the most classic of kitchen color trends. All white signifies space, cleanliness, and openness. At the same time, it also creates a welcome feel to the kitchen. The really nice thing about an all white kitchen is that you can easily add pops of color if you want to change the décor around. This means that as your tastes evolve, you can add different lighting fixtures or accessories and change your kitchen without having to invest in a large renovation.

5. Metallic Accents

Metallic accents is one of the hottest kitchen color trends right now. While chrome and stainless steel have always been kitchen favorites, new metallic choices are also emerging. Copper is big and can be seen in copper mugs and copper pots and pans. Gold is also a popular trend and can be seen in many kitchen accessories. Metallic accents bring a lot style wise, so use them carefully. They are best used in small amounts to as to not overwhelm the existing décor.

 

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July 18, 2018 By

How To Keep A Kitchen Island Functional

how to keep a kitchen island functionalThe kitchen island is often the focal point of a room, and it’s important that it not only looks good, but has a purpose. Here are some tips on how to keep a kitchen island functional.

Storage

The best way to keep a kitchen island functional is to use it for storage. Whether it is open shelves or hidden shelves, be sure to have a kitchen island that works for you, not against you.

Large, stationary kitchen islands often have shelves behind cupboard doors. This is great except, depending on the size of the island, these shelves can actually be quite deep and impractical. If you find this is the case, don’t be afraid of creating extra doors on the other side. This way you can access the shelves from both side and keep everything better organized.

If your kitchen island has open shelves, be sure to invest in stylish bins and baskets to keep everything organized. Wire baskets will fit in a rustic-themes kitchen. Stainless steel bins adhere to a modern look. This is an easy way to add décor and add to your theme.

Whatever the design, the best way to jeep a kitchen island functional is organize is so that it works for you. Keep utensils that you use every day close at hand. Put larger, less used items, farther back. Function is the key to organization.

Portability

A Kitchen island is often stationary, but if you have the opportunity to create a movable kitchen island, be sure to take it. Portability gives you the freedom to move your kitchen island according to your needs. If you are short on counter space, then an island can quickly maneuver to be extra prep space. It can also be positioned as a place for appetizers so guests can nibble and watch you in action.

If there are extra bodies in the kitchen than normal, then moving the kitchen island out of the activity zone may actually be the best bet. Move it to the side or out of the room completely so that nobody accidently stubs their toes.

Kitchen islands that are portable can also serve double duty as a table. You can move it into an open area, add some bar stools, and a cozy table for two is set.

De-Clutter

The biggest downside to a kitchen island is that they can quickly become a dumping ground for all sorts of odd and ends. There are two approaches to combat this.

The first is to have a clean surface rule. Under no circumstance is there to be anything on the kitchen island except meal prep. Be sure, then, to have adequate homes for all the junk mail, keys, and miscellaneous that often finds its way to the surface.

The other solution to keep your kitchen island functional is to acknowledge that it will always be a place for clutter. Then, create an organizing system. Have small baskets with labels ready. Put out a mail slot to keep flyers upright and accessible. And be sure to go through everything at least once a week to weed out expired coupons and children’s permission slips.

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