Kitchen Design Basics – Affordable Countertop Options

By Paul Eden

Most people are familiar with the common kitchen countertop options. The range of choices and costs are vast. Some are set on having granite and are will to sacrifice on the quality of the underlying cabinets in order to afford the countertops of their choice. Others view the countertop as something they can upgrade later and splurge on upscale cabinetry while at the same time accepting a lesser countertop surface. The usual choices of affordable countertops are listed below, along with their advantages and disadvantages:

Laminate Countertops

This is usually considered to be the entry-level choice. If it has been a while since you have checked out laminate, you may be pleasantly surprised. With more realistic textures and optional edge treatments, laminate can be a very attractive alternative. Of course the absolute cheapest option is to choose an available stocked countertop item at the local home improvement center. While colors and edge treatments are limited, the price is right.

Ceramic Tile Countertops

If you have the expertise to install tile yourself, the cost can compete with laminate, depending on your tile selection. The number one complaint with tile on countertops is the difficulty in keeping the grout joints looking clean. That being said, ceramic tile is a good way to go if you want an upgraded look on a budget.

Laminate and ceramic tile are two of the more affordable countertop options. Before making a final selection be sure you look at the new generation of laminate products-you may be surprised what you find.

www.LKNcabinets.com

Details Make a Big Difference

Pay Attention to Detail — It’s the little things that make a big difference. Beautiful details allow you to really personalize your new kitchen. To give your kitchen a custom-like look, consider adding decorative accents such as molding build-ups, ornaments and corbels. Including decorative accessories such as hardware, glass door inserts and under cabinet lighting can also make the room sparkle. Visit a kitchen design specialist at your local home center to discover even more ways you can add the perfect touch.

Use Space Efficiently — No matter the size of your kitchen, it’s important to maximize space and keep things organized.

Accessories such as the Base Pot & Pan Organizer, Roll Out Tray Dividers and Spice Door Cabinets help create a kitchen that is as hardworking as it is beautiful.

Take Measurements — Be prepared with accurate measurements of your current space and double check your work. Have your installer validate the dimensions or obtain professional measurements. Your kitchen design specialist will appreciate your detailed information. This will also help avoid measurement errors that can lead to costly delays and incorrect product orders.

For most people, the kitchen is the heart of their home. It’s where families and friends congregate and busy lives intersect. It’s where we prepare meals, eat, share, learn and celebrate!

SOURCE: At Home Magazine.

www.LKNcabinets.com

Achieving a Modern Kitchen Design

Kitchens that have a modern or contemporary feel are becoming a popular design option for homeowners. The kitchen is often the central meeting area within your house. It’s where you spend time cooking, socializing, entertaining and eating. You will invest more time and money in your kitchen than any other room in your home. This is why you should really consider the longevity of the design style you choose in your kitchen. Modern or contemporary kitchens create a clean, simple style that is truly timeless.

When determining the layout for your modern kitchen design aim for functional appliance placement. You want the placement of your appliances to encourage a natural movement from one appliance to the next. Obviously you want to place your sink near the dishwasher and allow ample counter space around your stove. Think about the tasks you’ll be doing most in your kitchen and plan your space accordingly.

Independent islands are a popular option in many contemporary kitchens since they allow additional seating and eating areas for guests. Islands encourage visitors to spend time with the cook while not crowding their cooking space. Some will add a sink or cook top to an island to increase the functionality. Having an island will also give you additional surface area to prepare your meals. You can never have too much counter top space in a kitchen.

Cabinets are a very visible part of any kitchen. When you are looking for a contemporary style cabinet you are probably going to consider a smooth, sleek design. Wood laminate, which is available in hundreds of colors, is a great accent for a modern style cabinet. The hardware is often going to be stainless and always will be simple and straightforward.

Everyone knows a great lighting design can change the way you see a room. When choosing lighting for a contemporary kitchen there are many choices available. Some of the more popular ones are recessed, under counter or decorative fixtures. The functionality of the lighting is just as important and the design. Proper light at the sink and counter areas are a must. If you are considering decorative fixtures for your kitchen, you must stay away from ornate designs and stick with bold, solid colors to promote the modern feel.

Accenting and accessorizing your modern kitchen is really about using less to say more. Simple accents with bold colors are a great choice. Accessories that use basic geometric shapes will work well. Keep the counters clear of small appliances and knick knacks to continue the flawless look throughout the kitchen. Window treatments need to stay minimal and simple by using only blinds or a solid straight curtain. Stay away from floral or other busy patterns in your window treatments.

If you are certain you want a modern or contemporary kitchen but are not comfortable piecing it all together, contact an experienced designer to help you. Together you can determine what will work with your day to day life and still be in style for years to come. Your are going to be spending a lot of time in your kitchen and you should enjoy every minute.

www.LKNcabinets.com