Home Bedroom Decor » Kitchen Decor

Getting to Know Black Galaxy Granite

GuestPoster — Fri, 20 Aug 2010 06:55:10 +0000

Nothing gives a kitchen or bathroom a classy look like Black Galaxy Granite. This stone first came into production and use in the 1960s and has taken off in popularity since. At first only quarried in a place called Ongole in India, it’s now found in several other places such as Iran, Brazil, Canada, and Spain. The scientific name for this material is Gabbric Anorthosite, but is always referred to as Black Galaxy. This material is cut and sold around the world and recently the price of it has risen considerably because the demand for it is surpassing the supply.

The price or cost of granite can vary and is partly because of the mistaken idea that many people have about the natural veining that can occur. It’s believed by some to be weak in structure if the veining is visible. This is actually not true. Additionally, some surface scratching happens in the factory when the stone is being polished and this causes many customers to believe the granite is weak or of less quality. The darker colors of granite worktops allow these round scratches to show a little more than lighter colors, but they aren’t defects. Many people spend time and money to get these scratches repaired, but that’s as pointless as purchasing a slab that has been “enhanced.” Any stone that has added elements to it isn’t as high in quality as other types. The enhancers end up wearing off and therefore it ends up as a way to overcharge for the granite.

Black Galaxy Granite has pits in the surface that can be examined to figure out the depth in which the stone was quarried. The deeper the pitting, the closer to the surface it was taken. On the other hand, if the granite was taken from a deeper place the pitting is shallower. Determining the quality of the granite is a great way to find out what it’s worth.

Source: Vast Home And Garden

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Refinishing Kitchen Doors

GuestPoster — Mon, 16 Aug 2010 15:12:07 +0000

If you are looking to remodel your kitchen, one of the main projects you will undertake is refinishing your kitchen cabinets. Kitchen cupboard doors are something relatively easy to change without needing to do major demolition, but also something that makes a huge difference in how the kitchen looks.

You may opt to reface your kitchen cupboard doors with a nice, clean white finish.

There are several different options for cabinet designs that you can attempt. Your first option is to re-stain or repaint them as is. You will need to remove the kitchen doors from the cabinets as well as any hinges and hardware. You want clean surfaces to work with. You do not have to keep working around a handle or a hinge. Both the doors and the cabinet frames that are left hanging on the walls will need to be sanded down to get rid of the old finish. Once you have a clean slate you can paint them or stain them any way you like. Then all you have to do is re-hang everything.

When it is time to re-hang the kitchen cabinet doors you will want to decide whether you are going to use the old hardware or start fresh with something new. Changing a detail as small as the handles on the cabinet doors can make a huge difference in how a room looks.

Remember to consider the rest of the kitchen when you are refinishing your cabinets. For example, not all kitchen island designs with seating will have cabinet doors for you to refinish in the same manner as the rest of the cabinets. Instead, they may be blocks with appliances and no doors. In this instance, you will have to refinish the walls of your island just as you refinish the cabinet frames. Many kitchens used to have white cabinets and islands with white walls surrounding the sink and the dishwasher. Refinishing the cabinet doors means having to redo the walls around the island as well so that everything matches.

If you want to make a bigger change then color, you might consider cutting out the center of the cabinet doors. If you replace the center part of each cupboard door with glass, it will provide an entirely different look to the kitchen. The more open design is much more suited to a modern space and it gives you a way to get rid of any beveling which is definitely traditional and not modern. Glass is not the only thing you can replace the centers with, either. You will also see kitchens with aluminum in the center of the cabinets. You can punch the aluminum with designs or add a polish that really makes them shine.

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Cost of Granite As A Countertop

GuestPoster — Mon, 26 Jul 2010 17:43:59 +0000

Counter surfaces made from granite are among the most attractive and resilient counter materials available today. Prior the ’90s, granite’s popularity lagged behind Formica and other less expensive materials. But since then it has made something of a comeback for high end kitchen furnishing. Granite comes in a wide assortment of hues, including but not limited to stand stone, red, grey, black, and many more. The stone can be polished to have smooth edges or remain rough cut for a more rustic appearance. Granite technicians can cut a single

Here is a warehouse filled with granite slabs ready to be made into countertops.

piece of granite into nearly any imaginable shape for a counter surface. This tutorial is intended to give the reader some idea of the costs of purchasing the stone and installing it into their homes.

The actual cost of the granite varies widely due to many factors. The first obvious consideration is thickness and size of the slab. The color chosen also makes a difference, as some hues are quite a bit more available than others. Granite is not a rare stone, and although it is considered a high end material for use in home kitchens and bathrooms, the material itself is relatively cheap while being extremely rugged and attractive. Granite’s price is also effect by the form in which it is purchased. Simple tiles which can be installed either by professionals or the individual consumer sell for between four to six dollars by the square foot. These tiles are approximately 3/8” thick as compared to the two inches or more in thickness of a traditional slab, and are considered less appealing by many for this reason.

Granite in slab form is far and away the most costly to buy. Installers will commonly charge between fifty and sixty dollars to the square to place granite slabs in the home. Costs can go up from here depending on the slab’s hue and thickness. African blue for instance, will cost notably more by the square foot than the commoner absolute black variety.

You can save a great deal of money by installing a granite worktop for yourself. However, this approach is not without its downsides. A professional installer that demands fifty or sixty dollars by the square foot for his services is charging you for skills and tools you probably do not possess. This charge will typically include sending a technician to your house to measure the counter you wish to have topped with granite. Using these dimensions, they will choose a piece of stone from their selection and cut it into the required shape. Granite is fantastically hard and very difficult to cut, and the cost of the special tools required to do so, such as diamond-edged saws, will probably be greater than that of simply having it cut and installed by a professional.

Granite slabs are also massively heavy, even those sized for relatively small counters. Many consider the task of installing them as much art as science. A craftsman with years of experience working with granite will install a counter that looks beautiful and will serve for a lifetime.

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Add Value To Your Home With Kitchen Cabinet Refacing

GuestPoster — Thu, 22 Jul 2010 15:33:03 +0000

When it is time to update the look of your kitchen, installing all new cabinets may be cost prohibitive. If you want to change things and still remain in your budget, cabinet refacing may be the best choice.

Depending on your skill level, budget and time there are a few different options available out there. It’s important to do a little investigating to learn how to reface kitchen cabinets. The first and cheapest option is to repaint the cabinets. This requires the least amount of skill and almost anybody can repaint their cabinets. Before painting all of the cabinets, it is a good idea to make certain that the color is what you want. The best way to do this is with a color sample.

Many paint companies sell small bottles of paint testers. Get a few pieces of poster board and paint these in the different colors you are considering. By placing these boards on top of the cabinets, you can get a very good feel for how the final paint job will look. After painting, add some new cabinet hardware and you will have a brand new look for approximately $100.

The next option for your kitchen would be to add veneer over top of the existing cabinets. Veneer comes in thin sheets in a wide variety of colors and wood styles. The sheets have adhesive on the back that quickly adheres to the existing cabinet face. With application, there are a few things to keep in mind. It is important that sheets are cut precisely so they line up. Also, when applying the sheets make certain that there are no air bubbles that get underneath. Placing the sheet slowly and applying constant pressure will achieve this. There are rollers to help you accomplish this.

Finally, if you are looking for an entirely new look, kitchen cabinet refacing is the best option. It’s also the most expensive – but far less expensive than a complete kitchen remodel. You can do this yourself if you are comfortable with some basic home improvement projects. Otherwise, hire a professional to redo the kitchen cabinets. They will have the experience and tools to do the job for you in just a day’s time. If you decide that you might like to try to do it yourself, be sure to take advantage of the helpful advice available at most reputable hardware stores. No matter which route you decide to take, your kitchen will look like an entirely new room. Make certain to research the styles, colors, and materials that are available. Kitchen cabinet refacing will give you a brand new kitchen. And a brand new kitchen will add value to your home.

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Creating a Unique Look with Glass Splashbacks

GuestPoster — Tue, 20 Jul 2010 21:19:00 +0000

A kitchen remodel can be very exciting, but also frustrating with all the choices to be made, whether it is a complete redo or a piece by piece job. When it comes to splashbacks, choices are huge. One option that works in a variety of different decors is a glass splashback. With all the different types of glass splashbacks, it will be easy to find one to match the desired look of the new kitchen.

Glass splashbacks for kitchens come in different size tiles, different colors and different levels of opacity. By visiting dealers and searching online, the perfect one can be chosen. Large tiles will give a nice clean look while smaller glass tiles will give a more artistic flair to the kitchen. Clear tiles are a bit more sleek and modern, while some of the coloured glass splashbacks will be more of a match with the other kitchen colors.

Glass kitchen splashbacks can be created to form a mosaic by using different colored tiles, or a solid color will look exceptionally sharp and sleek, like clear subway tiles or perhaps a black glass splashback. If there is a particular secondary color in the kitchen, it would be nice to use it in the splashbacks glass as a solid color or interspersed with one of the more neutral colors to form an accent.

Kitchen glass splashbacks are easy to maintain as well as look great. With simple wiping with a damp cloth, they can be cleaned easily. Creating the look of splashbacks glass will show the personality of the home and the homeowner, and the kitchen glass splashback can be unique. Not only will a brand new glass splashback provide a focal point and artistic flair to any kitchen, it will also be fun and exciting to create and find just the right thing.

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Giving Your Kitchen an Italian Look

GuestPoster — Wed, 30 Jun 2010 23:45:03 +0000

Do you like Italy? Do you enjoy the taste of Italian food, as well as the great feeling you get from being around an Italian environment? If so, you will probably want to consider replicating this environment in your own home. It is not that difficult to do, and you can decide how far you want to take the project. You could go all out and make your kitchen into an authentic replica of an Italian bistro, or you

You can almost feel and taste the aromas now.

could only implement a few things and get just a hint of culture in every meal that you prepare.

The most important thing to consider with Italian decorating is color. Unlike America, there is no white used in this style of decor. While some accessories and utensils can have a white hue to them, the main portion of the kitchen (that is, the floors and walls) must be different. Specifically, the colors should represent the Earth, meaning there should be dark and textured browns, reds, and golden yellows spread throughout the area. When all of this rich color comes together, you can a masterpiece of a room that anyone could fall in love with.

Due to the dark colors that are preferred, there are some types of furniture that are more fitting than others. For example, wooden benches go perfect with the Italian look, as they are naturally brown and are very representative of the planet (after all, wood comes from trees).

Many people would not want to do this, because eating out Italian is a special occasion that should be saved for only important events. That is an understandable position to hold, and honestly you can save money by keeping your kitchen like it is. However, if you truly love the feel of Italy and all that it has to offer, this is something that can really make your home a wonderful place to exist in. Even if you think you could get tired of this, I guarantee it is no more potentially tiresome than a regular kitchen, and in reality, you will probably always adore your kitchen’s Italian look.

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Design Concepts for Kitchen Remodeling

GuestPoster — Mon, 19 Apr 2010 12:57:11 +0000

Right now, kitchen remodels are wildly popular. Many homeowners are stepping into this massive undertaking out of a desire for a more welcoming, relaxed space, and a nice return on their investment. The kitchen is the center of the modern day home. We eat there. We talk there. We do homework and paperwork there. We entertain guests in the kitchen. We spend hours there cooking.

Even if you are doing the work yourself, you need to have a clear plan before you begin. If you’re hiring a company, you need a firm handle on what you want or else the project will take on a life of its own. Familiarize yourself with kitchen remodeling ideas and trends before making final decisions. Educate yourself about what’s available and all the possibilities open to you.

The biggest constraint on your design is the available space. Everything else hinges on that. The layout of the existing space is also a big factor. The amount of space available cannot be changed. The layout can be altered in some cases, but it’s costly to do so. Either way, both factors will drive your design. You need to consider your individual needs and expectations of the space. Do you entertain a lot? If so, you may want to think about installing a bar or counter where people can gather as you cook.

Do you prefer instead to dine out? Then maybe storage and counter space aren’t as big a concern. Perhaps you can opt for the smaller fridge. An island in the center of the kitchen is a common trend and a desired element in a kitchen. An island is so versatile. You can use them as a space to serve dishes, a spot to eat, a counter on which to prepare food. The only reason to opt against an island is an already cramped kitchen. Kitchen islands provide additional storage underneath. But they can also help when you’re entertaining as additional counter tops.

When people remodel their kitchens, they often take the opportunity to put in space-saving appliances. When your appliances are built in, they free up a lot of floor space. These days, space-saving appliances are high on features so many people buy them even when space is not a concern in their kitchen. Sometimes you have more appliances on your wish list than you have space to accommodate in your kitchen. One of the most important appliance is the kitchen range hood above the range or stove. Wall mount or island range hoods can not only provide a stunning focal point but are essential for maintaining the air quality in the kitchen. Don’t forget that people have to be able to walk around and carry hot dishes in there. A dishwasher is a staple in kitchens these days. You put them to work on a daily basis. They are real time savers. Although they are not cheap, what they save you in time is worth it.

Flooring is a major factor in kitchen design. When you’re remodeling, pay attention to the design of the entire space and ensure that the flooring fits into the overall design. Many people try to skimp on flooring in an effort to shave costs. This isn’t the place to cut corners though. You really want something sturdy and durable on your floor. Marble, hardwood or ceramic tile are good choices for a lasting, reliable floor. If you save a few hundred dollars now, but have to replace the floor later, how happy will you be then? After you go through the task of remodeling your kitchen or building it from the ground up, you’re not going to want to endure replacing your floors. Plus, it’s a waste of money. You’ll feel like you just spent that money on flooring, because you did. It’s better to buy a quality floor the first time around.

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Designing Your New Kitchen

GuestPoster — Wed, 07 Apr 2010 20:05:30 +0000

A kitchen is the heart of your home. Family memories are building around moments such as dinners in the kitchen, experimenting with new dishes or those of satisfying late night food cravings by sneaking into the kitchen. A professionally designed and well equipped kitchen speaks a lot about the people living in that house. Many people even believe that an inspiring kitchen design infuses deliciousness into the dishes prepared in that kitchen.

When designing your new kitchen it is best to do your due diligence before embarking on the actual construction. Given below are some simple tips that would guide you through the process of designing a new kitchen that custom fits your needs and wants.

Kitchen design: Even before you start designing, be clear about whether you are looking at a full kitchen remodel, renovation, decorative changes or an entirely new construction. This categorization is necessary as it defines the cost and the scope of the changes you can make.

Assess you need: Chalk out a budget for the new kitchen design. Next, find out about what are all the must have and nice to have features that you would want in your kitchen. Such as do you need a dining space in your kitchen? Do you need a window into a living room to look after children or just to watch TV? How many members are there in your family? How many guests do you entertain?

Keeping within the budget: Once you have assessed the need and decided on the budget, the next challenge is sticking to the budget. At the same time you have to design a kitchen that best suits your taste and reflects your personality. One good way to be within the budget is to save on the labor cost. Try to do small little things whatever you can do by yourself instead of having someone else do it. When choosing the materials for fixtures in your kitchen make a conscious decision of what would last longer than just going for the looks for example you can go for a vinyl flooring which looks as great as the marble flooring, costs less and lasts longer.

Hire a professional: In an attempt to save money do not cut on the expense of hiring a professional to design your new kitchen. This is because it can save you lot more on other counts. Professionals with good credentials and experience can help you realize your dream kitchen within the stipulated budget.

Cut down on your long term energy expenses: Envision designing your new kitchen as an opportunity to replace your old and less efficient kitchen equipment with more energy efficient equipment. For example now days stainless steel dishwashers are fast replacing the older version. This is because stainless steel dishwashers not only look trendy and durable but are also more energy efficient that can save you lot on your electricity bills.

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Wood Or Granite Worktops You Decide

GuestPoster — Thu, 25 Mar 2010 12:07:14 +0000

Are you looking to renovate or remodel your kitchen in the near future? If so, then one of the biggest choices you will need to make is the material for your worktops. Choosing a worktop surface used to be quite simple as most were constructed of some form of laminate but this has changed with the advent of cheap global shipping. Now you can have almost any material you choose and two of the most popular are wood and granite.

If you are looking for a natural décor then solid wood worktops may be the answer for you. The color variations in natural wood species are almost unending. You can choose a light hued wood such as an elm, beech, or spruce. Or you can have the dark, rich look of a stained oak which has an elegance that is hard to beat. Whatever the species chosen, using wood will make your kitchen look warmer and more inviting. Of course the downside of wood is the upkeep necessary. You need to seal it and it is easier to damage. Setting a hot pan or pot on a solid wood worktop can cause a burn spot which must be sanded out and if the burn is too deep it will never completely be removed. Also, cutting with a knife is possible and if you drop a heavy object on the surface it can be dented.

Granite worktops, on the other hand, are very durable and almost indestructible. The only real problem is a possible cracking if a heavy object is dropped on an overhang. Granite is a very durable stone which mean you won’t dent it by dropping sharp objects but it is possible to create a chip. It is also very forgiving if a hot object is set down.

Granite is very elegant and can be found in a wide variety of colors from an almost white ivory to deep reds and even a black. A dark color looks great in contrast to your light cabinetry. Some people claim there is an institutional look to granite but you would have to be the judge of that as it is a personal call.

Find out more about both these options at The Granite Worktops Guide. Make a choice you will enjoy for years to come.

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Kitchen Remodeling Plans

admin — Fri, 05 Mar 2010 05:36:50 +0000

When setting out on some kitchen remodeling plans, you’ll have a lot of choices to make. Some remodels are more for appearances; cabinet refacing, new appliances, etc. Then, others are more like complete remodel jobs – counters, flooring, kitchen lighting, and appliances right down to the finest details. While it isn’t necessarily a small detail, choosing range hoods to match your kitchen design plans is a crucial decision.

The modern home is definitely a combination of form and function. The functional aspect of a kitchen space can be best exemplified in a commercial kitchen. There, you will find little in the way of touches that are for appearance reasons only. The commercial kitchen is all about performance. You will often find stainless steel appliances because they just offer the best in the way of performance and durability. In homes where people pride themselves on cooking, there are more and more stainless appliances showing up. However, too much metal can make your kitchen feel too ‘commercial’ and less like home.

One option to remedy this situation is to opt for warmer colors and material choices in the kitchen. There are other metal choices from copper to brass that could be utilized to help warm up the kitchen, while still providing the ease and functional aspect that metal offers. You might also choose to have more wood in your kitchen. From warm cabinet tones to even applying wood facing to your appliances, you can make your kitchen feel more inviting. You can also extend this warmth into your flooring.

A great choice for that is bamboo flooring that is known to be quite durable and can also add to the modern home’s appeal. It is very long-lasting and now comes in a variety of shades off of the typical light tan, natural color of bamboo. If you have pets, then bamboo is a good choice as well. Another flooring choice is good old oak hardwood flooring. This one will probably never go out of style. While trends come and go, the warmth, durability and appeal of an oak floor is probably always going to be a part of any flooring discussion. There are also more inexpensive laminated flooring choices. While these are probably better suited for a bedroom or other living space, they can provide another option for the kitchen.

All in all, the kitchen will be one of the most used places in your home. It is certainly where everyone will gather when you are entertaining or having guests over. It is just one of those places that tends to be the get-together location. This might have something to do with where the food is, of course. So, whether or not you are doing a complete remodel or just making your kitchen space look or feel more modern, you have a lot of places to make improvements.

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