Home appliances may be your biggest allies when performing chores around the house, but they can dent your wallet if not properly maintained. Regular maintenance and routine checkups are essential to avoid costly damage due to normal wear and tear of the machinery. Apart from performing the chore, a home appliance’s biggest job is to be a reliable partner, which is only possible if it is kept in pristine condition. Prolonging the life of your home appliance is easy if you follow the below-mentioned tips:

1.     Regular Cleaning

The first and foremost tip that even the experts will tell you is to keep your appliances clean. The accumulation of dust and debris is a nemesis to the machinery’s inner workings that constitute the appliance. Clog vents, filters, or coils can result in the appliance behaving erratically until it works no more. The dust, if not cleaned, will accumulate and cause wear and tear to the internal parts of the machinery, thereby causing malfunctions.

2.     Professional Repairs & Warranty Services

When buying a home appliance, make sure that you have an adequate warranty in place. When the home appliance malfunctions, which is a matter of time, don’t try to do it all by yourself, but instead opt for professional repair services. Cinch Home Services recommends getting the advice of an experienced technician who can diagnose the real cause of the problem and quickly fix it. Extended warranties may raise the cost of a home appliance, but they’re worth it in the long run.

3.     Proper Ventilation

Your air conditioning and refrigerators, which depend on convection principles, require plenty of ventilation to work smoothly. Ensure proper ventilation in areas that house refrigerators, freezers, or dryers, as good airflow helps with efficient operations. Due to low ventilation, these appliances may experience overheating. Also, an excellent way to ensure these appliances are kept in proper shape is by regularly replacing the air filters to allow smooth ventilation.

4.     Maintenance Schedule

Being meticulous regarding your home appliances can pay dividends in the long run. A strictly applicable maintenance schedule is an excellent way to keep your appliances in good working condition. You can get help from the user manual for each appliance and schedule such maintenance activities for their smooth working. Regular checkups can help identify and address issues before they become significant problems.

5.     Energy Efficiency

With environmental degradation becoming a hot topic of discussion, it is vital to play your part in buying energy-efficient appliances. The payoff of such appliances is the apparent decrease in your energy bill, which consequently translates to lower harmful environmental effects. For this reason, you should upgrade to energy-efficient appliances when it’s time to replace old ones. Another way to save energy is by unplugging the appliances when not in use. It also protects the appliances from any harmful effects of voltage fluctuations.

6.     Proper Usage

It is important to use the appliances in accordance with their capacities and, more importantly, their functionality. It is also referred to as the intended purpose of the machine, and if users overlook this advice, the appliance may not function properly. Using appliances for tasks they weren’t designed for results in quick appliance deterioration.

7.     Use Surge Protectors

It is important to protect your home appliances from fluctuating voltages. Sensitive electronics and appliances should be plugged into surge protectors to safeguard them from power surges and voltage fluctuations. Also, it is prudent to share the load of high-powered appliances by using them at different times of the day. The stress on the electrical circuits will be considerably less; thus, the appliances will remain safe from voltage surges or drops.

8.     Follow Manufacturer Recommendations

Lastly, the user must follow all the recommendations of the manufacturer. Sometimes, the user may feel a particular home appliance can be run in a way the manufacturer prohibits. The manufacturer’s advice must always take precedence as they’ve performed numerous quality assurance/control checks to arrive at these suggestions.

In conclusion, the lifespan of your home appliances is not solely determined by luck or chance. Following the tips mentioned above can significantly enhance the life of your home appliance and, therefore, cause considerable savings. Long-lasting home appliances also save the environment as fewer materials are sourced to make more appliances. The efficiency and reliability of your home appliances depend on how well you take care of them and how regular are the maintenance checks.

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The process can be very exciting, but it can also get tricky when you aren’t sure which elements to improve. With so many options in the market, it’s sometimes hard to decide which parts you should improve and how to combine them with your other ideas.

To make those decisions easier, follow these tips that apply to every kitchen and are simple but very effective for the end result.

High-end materials

It’s well-known that high-end materials are durable due to their resistance to scratches and stains, which makes them a great investment for long-term usage. However, their visual appeal may be even more impressive.

With their unique textures and patterns, they instantly bring out the aesthetics of a kitchen and make it look luxurious. The high-end materials can be difficult to get, making them exclusive and a symbol of investment. However, they are crafted and installed with great precision, which adds to that luxurious atmosphere.

Some of the most popular high-end materials used in luxury kitchen designs are:

• marble;
• granite;
• porcelain;
• glass mosaic tiles;
• natural stone (such as travertine or onyx);
• precious metals (like copper or bronze).

Statement lighting

Lighting is one of the most crucial design details as it has the power to bring out all of the qualities in a room, especially a kitchen. Chandeliers or pendant lights serve as eye-catching focal points in the kitchen that draw attention and become a central element of a room.

Some unique shapes can blend in with the environment and become difficult to spot. But with good lighting, you can play around with different modes and emphasize the features you find the most appealing. Lighting will also affect the ambiance of a room with its attractive designs and shapes.

Creating a luxury kitchen is all about making the right combinations; high-end materials combined with statement lighting are undoubtedly perfect. For example, polished countertops or glossy cabinetry have reflective surfaces. Statement lighting fixtures with metallic finishes can beautifully complement these surfaces and create a stunning look.

Artwork and decorative elements

Using paintings, sculptures, or other pieces can immediately improve the aesthetics of a room. Moreover, they allow you to express your personal style since you can easily fit it in a room, whichever theme you choose.

You can combine extra steps with the building’s overall appearance. For example, in an oceanfront Five Park Miami Beach condo, you would focus on modern elements to complement the atmosphere of a famous luxury condominium. On the other hand, the iconic Grove Apartments will look much better with vintage details.

Another benefit of adding artwork to your kitchen is that it can easily add contrast when needed. For example, vibrant artwork mixed with a minimalist design can add drama to a room, making it more sophisticated. Placing the artwork in the right spot helps to balance the proportions and create a luxurious atmosphere.

Smart technology

Smart kitchen appliances are very convenient for simplifying your daily tasks. Moreover, they offer the benefits of connecting them to your phone, improved energy efficiency, and automation, to name a few.

In addition to their convenience, installing smart technology in a kitchen design adds a modern and cutting-edge appeal. Luxury is often associated with the latest technological advancements, and adding smart devices into the kitchen shows a commitment to keeping up with technology trends.

It can be seen as a status symbol, as you’re signaling a luxurious lifestyle with your attention to detail.

Luxurious finishes

Luxurious finishes can make a huge difference due to the elegance they add to a room. They add visual contrast to the design, making it “pop.”

Some surfaces can look bland, which is exactly what the luxurious finish solves. It adds texture and depth to break up that flat look. They are also very versatile, making them easy to combine with high-end materials and various kitchen surfaces.

You can easily customize them as there are numerous colors and textures to choose from. And the best part is that they’re built to last with their high-quality craft. Some of the most popular luxurious finishes are:

• brushed gold;
• polished nickel;
• matte black;
• chrome;
• oil-rubbed bronze.

In summary

Creating a luxurious kitchen may seem pricey initially, but it’s more about finding the right patterns and designs.

When you make the decisions about what to invest in, keep both convenience and appeal in mind. Using high-quality materials, new technology, and statement lighting are great investments as they are long-lasting, and you can customize them to your liking.

To get the desired look, staying consistent in your choices is essential. For example, combining too many colors or mixing modern and vintage styles can be bold, but, likely, it won’t look very appealing.

Find the combination you like, and with these tips, you’re guaranteed to get a luxurious kitchen that will draw countless compliments.

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1. Determine Your Budget

The first step in any kitchen makeover is to determine your budget. This will help you prioritize your renovation and ensure that you stay within your financial means. Consider the cost of materials, labor, and any additional expenses such as permits or inspections. It’s important to be realistic about what you can afford and to stick to your budget throughout the renovation process. Items such as islands or kitchen flooring can be expensive.

1. Plan Your Layout

Once you have a budget in place, it’s time to plan your kitchen layout. The layout of your kitchen can make a big difference in how functional and efficient the space is. Consider the “work triangle,” which includes the stove, sink, and refrigerator. The work triangle should be designed to minimize steps and make it easy to move between these three key areas. Additionally, consider the placement of appliances, cabinets, and other fixtures to ensure that your kitchen is as functional as possible.

1. Choose the Right Cabinets

Cabinets are one of the most important components of any kitchen. They not only provide storage but also play a key role in the overall aesthetic of the space. When choosing cabinets, consider the style, material, and color. You can opt for traditional wood cabinets, modern glass-front cabinets, or even open shelving. Choose a style that complements your kitchen’s overall design and suits your storage needs.

1. Select Countertops and Backsplashes

Countertops and backsplashes are another important component of any kitchen. They not only provide a functional work surface but also play a big role in the overall design of the space. When selecting countertops, consider factors such as durability, maintenance, and cost. Options such as granite, quartz, and laminate are popular choices. When it comes to backsplashes, there are endless possibilities, including tile, stone, or even a statement wallpaper.

1. Consider Lighting

Lighting is an important aspect of any kitchen makeover. A well-lit kitchen is not only more functional but also more welcoming and inviting. Consider adding under-cabinet lighting to illuminate countertops and provide additional task lighting. Pendant lights over the kitchen island or sink can also add a decorative touch to the space.

1. Upgrade Appliances

Upgrading your appliances is another important aspect of a kitchen makeover. Modern appliances not only look sleek and stylish but also provide added functionality and energy efficiency according to here. Consider upgrading to a new refrigerator, stove, or dishwasher to improve the overall efficiency and functionality of your kitchen.

1. Choose a Color Scheme

Color is an important aspect of any kitchen makeover. A fresh coat of paint or a new backsplash can completely transform the look and feel of the space. When choosing a color scheme, consider the overall style of your kitchen and the mood you want to create. Bright colors can add a pop of fun and energy, while neutral tones create a calming and sophisticated atmosphere.

1. Add Personal Touches

Finally, don’t forget to add personal touches to your kitchen makeover. This can include family photos, artwork, or decorative accessories that reflect your personal style and taste. Personal touches can help make your kitchen feel like a welcoming and inviting space that is uniquely yours.

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Here’s our top wish-list of timesaving, useful, and funky gadgets we’re eyeing up for our next kitchen refit.

1. Sensor-Operated Faucets

Gone are the days of stubborn, stiff handles on your faucets – simply wave at the fixture and it will magically stream at your command! Brands like Delta and Pfister offer touchless sensor faucets that are easy to use for all the family.

2. Water Softener System

If you live in a hard water area, you’ll know the toll it can take on your hands when washing up and the bitter taste it has. Install a water softener system beneath your kitchen sink to get fresh, filtered, softened water flowing straight from the tap. Filter out potentially harmful chemicals and hard deposits from your home’s water supply and enjoy smooth, great tasting tap water.

3. Coffee Machine with Timer

The dream of having a hot, steaming cup of real filter coffee waiting for you when you wake up has ARRIVED. All the classic kitchen appliance brands (Russell Hobbs, Morphy Richards) now offer very affordable filter coffee machines featuring a timer that you can set for the best wakeup call ever. Nothing will have you jumping out of bed at 7am quite like it!

4. Smart Speaker

We’re seriously considering placing a pre-order for Apple’s new HomePod smart speaker – simply ask Siri to play any song in the world and have it fill the room in seconds, in amazing hi-fi sound quality, completely hands-free. This is especially great in the kitchen so that you can prep and chop food without pausing to fiddle with buttons to play music. Ask Siri to play your favorite playlist and dance around the kitchen as you cook! You can also ask it questions – what step comes next in the recipe you’re making? Alternatives to Apple’s latest gadget include the Google Home and Amazon Echo.

5. Boiling Water Tap

Another faucet-related tip: get instant boiling water from your faucet. Imagine making an instant brew after a hard day’s work and halving the time it takes to boil potatoes on the hob. These contraptions are available from all kitchen retailers nowadays, and customers who’ve installed them never look back.

6. Pull-Out Table

When living in a small space, like a bedsit or cozy apartment, utilizing space is key. Where you don’t have room for a dining table, consider a pull-out. It can be neatly tucked away inside a cupboard or otherwise out of sight when not in use, leaving you more space to prepare dinner. When it’s done, whip out your table and enjoy a sit-down meal.

7. Magnetic or Blackboard Wall

Kids especially will find these fun feature walls a highlight of the house. Stick up photos, lists, and your children’s artwork with colorful magnets for proud display; or scribble important notes, messages and doodles in chalk on your funky blackboard wall.

8. Kitchen Terrarium

Not a gadget or device, but a cute feature that will bring a little joy every time you see it. Terrariums have become the houseplant-come-décor of choice in modern homes, and you can make them yourself quickly and easily. Buy a few succulent plants from a garden store (available for just a few dollars each), a terrarium frame (you can even make these out of picture frames), and some decorative pebbles. Make at home for a fun activity.

9. Breakfast Master

Behold this feat of 21^st century engineering: these amazing all-in-one cookers fry your eggs, toast your bread, and make coffee at the same time! The microwave-sized contraptions fit on your countertop and ensure your food and beverages are perfectly cooked and ready to eat at exactly the right time. A range of manufacturers have begun to offer them, like Product Box in the UK and Elite Cuisine available from Amazon US. At just $30, you can’t really refuse.

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Before you do anything, sit down and work out exactly what you need from your kitchen. For example, some people only use a kitchen for cooking, while others need it to double up as a laundry. If this is the case, ask yourself whether you can configure the kitchen so that a separate, smaller area leads from it where you can accommodate a washing machine and other laundry appliances and items like an ironing board. If you are one of those people – or families – who spend a lot of time in the kitchen, eating or even socializing here, your approach will be quite different. You will need space for a freestanding table or, at very least, a built-in counter with bar stools where you can eat.

Once you have decided on function, you can decide on the approach you are going to take. This involves fundamental issues that range from the basic layout of the kitchen, to any style you may want to follow. From here you can start costing items and deciding whether you are going to employ a professional kitchen company to do the work for you, or whether you are going to do the hard work yourself. A compromise would be to get a professional company (or manufacturing outlet) to make up custom units and for you to install them yourself. This can work well, provided you have the necessary skills. If you are going to employ the services of a company, or individual, specializing in kitchen installations, it is still a good idea to know what you want before you get quotations.

If you’re stuck for ideas and really don’t know where to start, have a look at Internet sites (like this one) that show photographs of different kitchens, and look for magazines and books that are well illustrated, with up-to-date ideas. You will probably find that you instinctively like some ideas and not others. Another good idea is to visit show houses and showrooms where you can see and touch what is available. Try to gauge prices so you know what you can expect to pay, and whether you are going to realistically be able to afford what you think you want. It is essential to have a clear idea of budget from the start so that you can ensure your new kitchen fits into the budget, and if it doesn’t, whether you are able to increase it or whether you need to find ways to cut costs.

Once you have established what your personal priorities are, and you have a fairly clear picture in your mind of what you want, you will need to work out costs. This is a vital part of planning a new kitchen. To be able to do this, you will need to decide which appliances you need to buy and exactly how you are going to fit the kitchen out. This means establishing the type of fittings – for example cupboards, cabinets or open shelves – and their finish, as well as how many of each you need.

So, at this point it’s back to the drawing board. If you are using a professional company for the kitchen, or even just getting quotations, they should give you a preliminary plan of what the kitchen will look like, based on your requirements. If you are going to fit your own kitchen, either from scratch or with knock-down units, you will have to draw your own plan. If you use common sense and follow basic design principles, you shouldn’t find this difficult.

The size of the kitchen and its shape will determine, to a large degree how you will lay it out. Typical configurations include galley kitchens, which are long and narrow and where units are positioned on opposite walls; U-shaped kitchens where three walls are used; and L-shaped kitchens where two walls that meet at right-angles are fitted with units of some sort. The open plan approach, where the kitchen becomes part of the general living space, can work with both U-shaped and L-shaped kitchens. Or the entire kitchen can become a living room of sorts.

Most efficiently designed kitchens incorporate a work triangle which entails a logical inter-relationship between the cook’s three main aids, the:

1. stove,
2. refrigerator, and
3. sink

All this really means is that whoever is working in the kitchen needs to be able to move between these three “aids” easily. They won’t always form a perfect triangle by any means. For example a sink and refrigerator may be positioned along the same wall and the stove on the other. In the case of a kitchen established along one single wall, all three would be in a line, but not right next to one another. If your kitchen is going to include an island unit, it might be best to incorporate either the sink or a hob for the triangle to be effective.

Just remember that the stove and refrigerator should never be positioned right next to one another. This is largely because the one is made for heating and the other for cooling, and if placed alongside one another, they will not operate to maximum efficiently. Also, it is best to have some sort of working surface on either side of both the stove and the sink.

Corners can be a particular challenge, especially where two cabinets meet at the corner, because it is often difficult to get right into the corner. Investigate what space-saving fittings are available, for example those that rotate.

Other factors to bear in mind when planning a new kitchen include:

• making sure there is enough space for people to walk through the kitchen easily (even if there is a central island),
• positioning tall units at the ends of ordinary counters,
• checking the direction in which cupboard and cabinet doors open, so that they don’t get in the way of one another and they open easily,
• making use of all possible wall space, either by hanging cupboards or some sort of open shelving, or by incorporating taller units or freestanding furniture like dressers,
• planning your work surfaces carefully so that you have sufficient space for every possible task and
• making sure that essential services that relate to both plumbing, electrics and gas are correctly installed and in the right place.

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For the purposes of this article we are going to assume that you are starting with an empty shell of a room. You will need to work with the dimensions of the room as well as all the other physical aspects including the position of windows and doors.

If you are revamping a kitchen, you can still follow these very same guidelines, only you may be able to utilize some existing items, kitchen cabinets and lighting for example.

The first step will be to decide what type of kitchen you want, both in terms of its style and decor, and what it will offer you in practical terms. An excellent way to assess this is to make a list or lists. Here’s an example:

• lots of storage space behind closed doors,
• a dedicated cupboard for brooms and cleaning equipment,
• a dedicated cupboard for foodstuffs,
• easy-to-clean counter tops with a marble-topped section large enough for rolling pastry,
• a built-in wooden chopping block,
• a double sink as well as a prep bowl,
• wall-hung plate rack for drying (wooden cottage style),
• an electric eye level oven,
• centre-island with a gas-powered hob,
• built-in microwave oven,
• combination refrigerator-deep freeze,
• above counter lighting as well as general lighting,
• tiled floors (terracotta to fit the style),
• tiled splashback (maybe feature tiles in yellow and blue),
• all other walls painted with a good quality paint that provides a surface that can be scrubbed (pale lemon),
• pretty blinds,
• open shelving for the recipe book collection, and
• enough space for a small freestanding table for family meals (look for colonial style or bentwood chairs to fit the cottage style).

Remember that this is your list, so you can change anything if you wish. For example, you might find some glorious old red and green tiles for the sink splashback and then decide that a stone-washed wall color will be better than pale lemon. You might also decide that the style you first thought would work doesn’t, and so opt for another look completely. The point is that you need a starting point from which to start working on designing a kitchen on a budget.

Once you have a good, basic idea of where you are going, you can start concentrating on specifics. Since storage is top of the list here, an important priority will be to find cupboards or cabinets that will work within your design scheme. Your budget will determine to a large extent what you choose. If you can do a lot of the work yourself, or persuade family or friends to help you, then you will save a lot of money by buying all the separate elements and putting them together yourself. You will need to establish the correct sizes (based on the basic dimensions of the room) and make sure that you have everything from hinges to handles. A slightly more expensive option will usually be to buy knock-down units that you assemble yourself. Here, the manufacturer will have included everything you need in the pack, but you will have to do much of the work yourself.

Whichever route you take, you will need to ensure that you meet your own needs, for example of a broom cupboard and food cupboard. To do this you need to decide on a suitable layout for the kitchen as a whole. The sink units will need to be plumbed in, so this is one of the first considerations. Electricity and gas supplies are equally important. Draw a layout to scale on graph paper that shows where these supplies and services are, and also show where all the door and window openings are. Make absolutely sure that the measurements you take are accurate. Mistakes can be extremely costly. Then make templates of the units you want and play with them on your layout. Don’t forget to include wall-hung units as well as those that will be fixed to the floor. Also include freestanding items (table and chairs) and open shelving like that required for recipe books.

When you are designing a kitchen on a budget, be sure to remember the kitchen triangle. This is an extremely simple concept that links three main service areas:

1. cold storage (your refrigerator and deep freeze),
2. wash-up (your sink), and
3. cooking area.

As old fashioned as some people consider this to be, it does work. But it isn’t always as simple as a three-point (triangular) plan. Go back to the list and you will see that there are three cooking appliances required, as well as two sinks, and the refrigerator and freezer could be separate appliances. But the important thing is to make them work together. Also, it is never a good idea to locate cold storage next to cooking appliances – the one heats and the other cools, so they don’t work well right next to one another. Keep cooking units close by each other, but don’t worry too much about the other appliances. For instance a freezer can be located away from the main working area and a prep sink can be closer to the living area than a sink used for washing dishes.

You will also need to accommodate the required marble slab and chopping block within whatever counter tops you choose. If this isn’t possible, you can always use loose slabs or blocks. Shop around for off-cuts and remember that someone else’s throwaways can be bought for a song! For example some people install marble counters throughout the kitchen and there will often be slabs left over. Otherwise look for what suppliers call seconds; items with scratches and dents or dings that aren’t likely to worry you since you are designing a kitchen on a budget.

It is also possible to find appliances that have been marked down because they are shop-soiled. Remember that you don’t have to compromise quality, a scratch down the side of a refrigerator won’t matter if it is going to be lodged between cupboards.

Another basic element will be the floor tiles, and you can save a bit of money here too, by looking for special offer goods at cheaper prices. You shouldn’t be tempted to buy lesser quality products, but end of range or special promotion products can help you cut your budget considerably.

Once you have worked out all the basics, you start looking at other details. The best way is to work progressively through your lists until you achieve a finished product you will be happy with. Do as much as you can yourself, and enjoy the challenge.

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Getting What You Want

Whether you plan to be your own contractors or you are fully hiring out the work for your kitchen renovation, hiring a professional with interior design experience is highly recommended. For starters, a professional has many tools to assist with design decisions that can save time and especially money. Most professionals can take your current floor plan and place it in a software program that will calculate measurements and other basic requirements along with demonstrating various options for your remodel.

A design professional can take the items you wish to incorporate in to your remodel and ensure that they can happen more efficiently or effectively than you may have thought of on your own. Many people do not realize how frequently they are making design decisions because of issues in their kitchen that they believe they cannot get around, such as a sink hook up or gas outlet. Or else people unfortunately do not realize some things that would be difficult to change, such as structural issues that can’t be moved. A professional would be capable of helping you work through these issues in order to incorporate all the design elements you were considering.

One of the most beneficial aspects to an experienced professional is their ability to save homeowners time and money. Experienced design professionals are typically more aware of the cost savings opportunities that first time renovators may not realize. Consider the sequence in which to order custom elements of your kitchen such as countertops or cabinets or appliances. All of these items need to be completed in a particular order to avoid continually calling in contractors at different intervals when you could have had them do their job all in one day if the right sequence of events had occurred. By knowing what to do and when to do it, considerable dollars can be saved.

How to Find a Good Professional

Nothing is more helpful than a personal reference for anyone you plan to have do work for you. This allows you to see their work first hand or get feedback you might not have otherwise had access to. You can also find interior designing services available at home improvement stores. These services may not be as custom or creative as independent professionals, but they typically can offer basic services and provide advisement on measurements and products found within the store. An independent designer can give homeowners unique style options as well as offering a wider selection of products. There are also internet sources that have been developed to both recommend good design professionals as well as advise against ones who have performed poorly.

The type of kitchen you want to have also plays a role in determining the right professional resources. Some designers will specialize in a specific aspect of kitchen design such as traditional versus modern looks or French country kitchens. Others may work with specific product types such as unique materials that are imported or recycled design products. If a homeowner is uncertain what type of design they are seeking, it is even more important to involve a professional in order to get the best result for your renovation project.

Saving Money by Spending Money

Design consultations are often free but actual services throughout the renovation will require a fee. It may feel counter intuitive to pay money in order to save money, but a professional is definitely skilled enough to help homeowners cut the corners to get the maximum amount of value for their renovation. Design professionals generally have industry contacts that can help to procure items that may not otherwise be available to the general public. They also have enough experience to be prepared for some of the issues people simply wouldn’t know from doing a renovation once or twice.

Another benefit of professional assistance with your renovation will be the opportunity to maximize a kitchen renovation when it comes to a re-sale investment. For homeowners renovating their kitchen in order to prepare their home to sell, a design professional familiar with the market would be able to present the types of upgrades that home buyers are looking for. It can be easy to personalize a renovation for you and your family, but it is not necessarily as easy to choose renovation selections that will appeal to a wide base of potential buyers. Industry professionals can offer everything from current trends in kitchen design through to changes that save you money while still looking great for a buyer.

What You Should Look For

There are a few key items you should look for when shopping for a design professional that will help to tell you something about the quality of work the person provides. For starters, they should have some sort of web presence that includes photos of actual home kitchens they have worked on. If the photos appear to be generic stock photos, then you know you may have a professional that is too inexperienced for your project. You should also interview your designer, similar to the way you would want to ask important questions of any one completing a job for you. Typically a professional will have a portfolio of completed projects and sample materials that they like to use which should give you an idea of their style and design approach.

Hiring a kitchen designer should be a well planned process for your renovation project. It is the key to saving money and time in the long run of your project. An experienced design professional will have access to resources and tools that can help your project to be more cohesive and professional while using their expertise to maximize the value of your renovation investment.

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An important thing to consider when choosing colors is what certain colors mean to you. How do they make you feel? Does the color green give you a feeling of the outdoors and peace or does it remind you of green peas which you detest? Is blue a soothing color reminding you of the ocean and pretty summer skies or does it bring your unstable blue car to mind which creates pure stress? Each and every color will affect you in either a negative, positive or neutral way. Before making important color choices, know your own mind. Once you have that figured out, then you can choose a color for your kitchen wisely.

One thing you need to acknowledge before you start, is if there are any colors that you don’t actually like. These colors should be removed entirely from the choices. Are there colors you love? Keep them at the front of your list. As you go through color samples from your local home improvement store, hang on to any that really appeal to you. Take these home with you to look at in the lighting of your own kitchen. Sometimes, colors will vary according to the lighting and location where they will be used.

To create an exciting kitchen area, choose more than a single color. Even if you pick a single main color, bring in multiple colors as accents. This will help to create an interesting environment. (A monochromatic room can seem to lack excitement.) If unsure of which colors compliment each other, search your local craft store for a color chart. This will assist you, as it includes a full color spectrum, and colors that compliment each other will be easy to spot. Once you select colors that you like, give yourself time to change your mind. If you still like your selections after a few weeks, you have probably found the winning color combinations for your kitchen. People will react in various ways to colors, so be sure since its your kitchen, you really like the colors and don’t be discouraged by the remarks of others. Know your own mind.

Choosing the type of paint is equally as important as choosing the color. Don’t necessarily go for cheap. Although, sometimes you can buy a reputable brand of paint on sale. This is ok. However, buying paint that is really cheap will normally create cheap looking results. It will be so watered down, you’ll have to paint many, many coats to make it seem like it covered the wall. Also, flat paint is not desirable for an area like a kitchen. Any room where adults and children gather much of the time, will do better being painted with a semi-gloss paint. A satin finish water base paint is ideal. Areas that take abuse can be lightly wiped down with a damp cloth or sponge. Also, a very wise thing to do, is to save a little of the remaining paint in a clear jar with a tight fitting lid. This can be used for touch ups or problem areas.

There are many books available at bookstores that describe how colors affect emotional responses. These are just standard examples as no two people will react identically to all colors. Dark colors seem to decrease the space of a room while light colors make it seem open and larger. Another helpful hint as you begin painting your kitchen is to have all the supplies you need on hand. Its terrible to be all excited as you finally open the paint, stir it and then realize, you forgot to buy a paint pan. You’ll need a drop cloth to protect the floor, a couple of good brushes for edging and a couple of paint rollers and paint pans. An edger is also a great tool to use around windows and in corners. And be sure to have a couple of clean rags to use to wipe up any spills. A roll of masking tape is very useful also, as areas such as woodwork may be taped off and not exposed to the brush or paint roller. If you have high ceilings, you’ll need and extension pole that your paint roller will attach to. Most paint rollers are disposable and can be tossed in the trash after use. However, brushes are more costly and can be cleaned after use for your next project. Before beginning, remove any outlet covers.

Before you begin, enlist the help of a friend or a family member. This helps the job go quicker and is a fun bonding experience at the same time. Make a date out of it. Shuttle the kids to Grandma’s house and have a free evening to paint the kitchen at your leisure. Be sure to air out the room by opening a screened window. Sometimes the smell from paint can affect the elderly, young children, people with allergies and house pets.

All in all, picking a paint color for your kitchen is both educational and creative. When the job is completed, you can take pleasure in the beautiful work of art that you have created. Now that you are an experienced painter, you’ll look at all the walls in each of the rooms of your house in a different way, imagining how the room would look, painted in a new exciting color.

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Usually it’s best to work on a raw wood surface. So if the cupboards were previously painted or varnished (or sealed in some other sort of way) you will need to strip this off first. If the wood has already been stained, you can sometimes darken the stain, but it isn’t usually the best approach. It is not an easy task to remove an existing stain, although you could try bleaching it.

You might also decide to bleach the wood first if you simply want to end up with a lighter color. If you do this, a good effective method is to use oxalic acid, which you can buy from a pharmacy. Just be careful, because it is toxic. Wear gloves and don’t breathe in the fumes. It comes in the form of a white powder and what you do is to mix a little of it with warm water to form a runny paste. Paint the units with it, leave for a while, and then flush with water. Allow to dry thoroughly before you even think about staining. Alternatively use a two-part bleach, or even an ordinary type of household bleach. But again, get rid of the bleach and allow it to dry before you continue with staining.

When you stain new units, do so before you fit or install them. If they have already been assembled, try to remove as much of the hardware (handles and hinges) as you can. Keep it all in a safe place and make sure you mark each item so you know where it came from. If you can remove doors and other flat elements, do so. That way you can work flat, which you might find a lot easier than working with cupboards hung so that the surface is vertical. You can also seal the surfaces before you build in cabinets and hang cupboard doors.

If you do stain cupboards and cabinets that are already installed, make sure you use a drop cloth or lots of old newspaper on the floor so that when stain runs off the surface (as it probably will) it doesn’t ruin your kitchen floor. If it does, wipe the floor immediately with a cloth.

If you are going to be staining old units, make sure that the surface of each part is absolutely clean and smooth. If they have to be sanded, get that work done first. Then clean up all the dust before you start staining. Remember that the rougher the sandpaper, the more material it will remove. But you will need a fine grit paper to make the surface really smooth. So start with rough paper and then move to a finer grade.

Choose the right stain for your kitchen

There are several things you need to take into account when you choose what you are going to use for staining kitchen cupboards. The first will probably be color and the next, type of product. If you want a particular type of stain, then this will obviously come first.

Like paints and sealers, stains may be water-based or solvent based. That, of course, means that you will either use water or some type of solvent (usually either thinners or mineral turpentine) to clean your brushes. Just remember that some products have proprietary solvents and if they do, it is vital that you use them. Don’t ever be tempted to try and use something else. This (water or solvent) is also what you will use if, for any reason, you need to dilute the stain.

You might dilute a stain or dye if you aren’t sure just how dark you want the finish to be, and you therefore want to gradually build the color up. Remember that the darker the finish, the smaller the room will tend to look. So if you have a little kitchen, rather go for light colors, even if you do have children and animals that are going to add dirt to surfaces. If this is the case, dark might just look dirty.

Manufacturers do sometimes prepare boards that they supply to retail outlets that show the result of the stain on timber. If not, you may want to do some of your own trials rather than experiment on your kitchen units. Rather waste a bit of stain than ruin your kitchen cupboards by making the wrong choice.

Staining your cupboards

The first step – and this is very important – is to read the instructions on your packaging thoroughly. Different stain products have a lot in common, but they are NOT all the same. Only the manufacturer can give you precise, accurate instructions that you can rely on.

Some stains come in plastic bottles, while others are supplied in cans. You can shake bottles, but cans normally need to be stirred, and they need to be stirred properly. If you don’t stir well, then you will find that what’s going to add the color will stay on the base of the can. So you’ll start off with a color that is too light and, as you dig deeper into the container, it will gradually get darker as you picking up the pigment at the bottom.

You can brush on stain or you can use a sponge or a cloth. Either way, it’s probably a good idea to wear gloves, because you are, after all, working with a stain, and you don’t want your hands to change color!

Generally it’s best to work with or in the direction of the grain. If you are staining moldings or raised sections on panels, be sure to work the color into every last bit. If necessary, you can wipe any residue off before it sinks into the timber and dries. Once you get a feel for this, you might like to try leaving a bit of extra color in the crevices, because this can look very effective, adding natural highlights and shadows. Also remember that you can add two or more coats of the stain, depending on the final effect you want.

Once you have completed the staining process, leave the wood to dry thoroughly.

Sealing the stain

The last phase of staining kitchen cupboards is to seal them and then, when the sealer has dried, to replace hardware.

Varnish is the traditional option, but nowadays there are many other products to choose from. If you have used a brown stain, a traditional varnish will make the color yellow even more. That might be fine with you, but if you don’t want to alter the color of the stain, then you will need to choose a product that won’t yellow with time.

It isn’t essential to seal the finish, but if you find the cupboards get very dirty you might find that scrubbing begins to remove the stain. The trouble is it won’t do this in an even way. So think hard before making a final decision. Most sealers will produce a good, smooth surface that you will be able to scrub – and it can be shiny or matt, depending on your preference.

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First of all, consider the table itself. Some are built in as part of the kitchen design, like a bar counter top or a surface that can fold out from an adjacent counter top. Others are freestanding items of furniture. The freestanding type ranges from plain items, to beautiful crafted items, usually made from wood or steel. Wooden tables may be made from local timbers or from exotic imported timbers, with straight planed legs to beautifully turned legs. Steel tables are welded together and often have glass tops that add to the decorative appeal.

So you will see that well made, the table can become decorative in its own right, however functional it is meant to be.

But it doesn’t matter whether your table is beautiful or not, a little creativity decorating the kitchen table can add a certain charm and appeal to the room that a bare table won’t achieve. And you can leave it like this every day, or change certain aspects whenever you want to.

Day to Day Décor for the Table

One of the simplest ways to decorate a table, any day of the week, is with flowers. These may be fresh, dried or fake. Don’t sniff at fake, because there are many fun possibilities around today, ranging from cheap and cheerful plastic, to beaded wire or even carved wood. But then fresh flowers – the real thing – can and do look gorgeous, especially when you’ve grown and picked them yourself.

But it isn’t just the flowers that you need to consider if this is what you’re going to do. The vase is just as important, if not more important, when it comes to decorating with flowers. Think about size, shape and color of the container, and consider assembling a small collection of vases that you can rotate, so that your table never looks exactly the same.

Clear glass vases can look amazing, and you can add character with glass chips, marbles or even sea shells sunk into the base of the container. Just be sure to wash these bits and pieces whenever you change the arrangement, otherwise they will become slimy and decidedly unattractive within a relatively short period of time.

Another lovely way to decorate a table in the kitchen is with fresh fruit and vegetables. The beauty of this approach is that you keep changing the arrangement as you eat and cook with them. Just be careful not to add fruit and veg that will deteriorate out of the refrigerator, like tomatoes, peppers or well-ripened bananas or avocados. Lemons, onions (mix white with red), apples and garlic all last for a good while, and of course you can add green tomatoes and bananas or avos that have not quite ripened yet. If you have young children and want to encourage them to eat healthy fruit, then make sure the bowl is always full of nourishing fruits that will attract them.

Candlesticks also look good on a table, as long as it doesn’t start to resemble a shrine. Mix and match colors and shapes, or use candlesticks that are a feature in themselves.

The position of the table also plays a role when it comes to decorating. For example, if your kitchen table is in the centre of the room or at least away from any of the walls, then decorating the kitchen table will probably revolve around the center of the table. If it is positioned against a wall, your approach can be quite different. In this instance, you might like to think about a small collection of several different items, from recipe books to decorative tins. Even vinegar and olive oil can look deliciously decorative. Pot plants or potted herbs are another option, provided there is some sunlight to keep them alive. Think out of the box and don’t be a slave to fashion.

Décor for a Table in Use

Whether you are eating as a family or using the kitchen as a venue for entertaining friends, don’t ever ignore what the table looks like. Your approach might be as simple as covering it with a colorful cloth, to making it looks stylishly sophisticated, with things like silver cutlery, bone china crockery and crystal glass. Even if you’re using the table as a serving surface for a very casual meal, you can make it look really great and a feast for the eyes.

Traditional décor of any table usually involved very correct table settings which few people bother about today. But this in itself can look incredibly decorative, and even if you don’t use all the knives and for eating, you could add an element of good old education into the meal.

A wonderful little book, Any one can bake, published by the Royal Baking Powder Co. (New York City) in 1929 has two fascinating photographic examples of table settings. One is for a formal luncheon and the other for an informal supper. It’s all very Colonial stuff, with lots of knives and forks on the table, as well as drinking pitchers and glasses, and plenty of flowers. Table mats and napkins complete the picture in both instances.

Table setting correctness has become less important over the decades, but a well-set table will always look decorative. For example, forks on the left, knives on the right, and spoons either on the right of the knives, or at the head of where the plate or bowl would be set. Then the side plate should be on the left of the forks – or according to Royal, above the tip of the forks – but glasses always on the right above the knives.

Traditional rules regarding cutlery are that they are placed in the order of use (first on the outside), and that knives should always have their sharp edges turned in towards the plate.

Traditional table décor for any sort of meal includes candles, flowers and fruit. Rolls or bread can also become part of the décor scheme, as can any salt and pepper sets, or vinegar, oil and salad dressing containers.

The casual table will more likely have a pile of knives, forks and spoons, usually separate from one another, and an adjacent pile of plates for people to help themselves. But it should not look any less decorative to the formal tables in the best top restaurants.

At the end of the day, when it comes to decorating the kitchen table, all you need to do is aim for a pretty picture that you like. Remember that this isn’t décor you have to live with forever; instead you can change it frequently, as often as you like.

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