Great Way to update


If you are just looking for a quick way to update your kitchen or bathroom there are a few things that you can do that won't break the bank, but will give you that instant gratification. The simplest thing would be to change the paint color, a gallon or two of paint and a few hours and you can transform your room and make a big impact. I really love the color palette that Benjamin Moore offers check out this video at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cfi8eQsmq7E showing their new Natura Aura product. Color is a way to truly express yourself.....and remember it is just paint.



Something else you can do that is relatively simple and inexpensive, is to change out all the cabinetry hardware. If you have just knobs (single hole) then the sky is the limit. If you have pulls (handles with 2 or more holes drilled) then it will be important to measure the existing screw location center to center to determine the replacement size. The most common pull size is 3" and if that is what you have then you will find a greater number of choices. The most popular finish you will find right now is satin nickel or brushed chrome, and hold on to your seats because Polished Chrome is really making a strong comeback. Polished brass is still a bit out of date so sorry folks chrome or satin nickel is in, antique brass and polished brass is out.

Kitchen - Before and After












By eliminating the open soffit area and having the wall built up to the ceiling, I was able to design this kitchen to have a spectacular focal point with the custom decorative hood over the cooktop. The hidden pull-outs in the columns on each side provide a handy storage solution for spices, herbs and oils for cooking. The custom panels on the built in refrigerator help to hide the refrigerator and the large single level island provides a great surface for prep work and is ideal for entertaining. The beautiful chocolate brown wood floors contrast so beautifully with the chocolate glazed off white painted cabinets and the richly stained cherry cabinets at the island. Overall just a fantastic kitchen transformation.....

Friday's closing thoughts.....

It has been a really busy week and with the week coming to a close I would like to leave you with this beautiful picture. Photography has always been a passion of mine and I find it to be a wonderful artistic outlet. I took this picture near Ceasar's Head North Carolina in May 2009. I can still hear the beautiful sound of the water flowing over the rocky falls and feel the crisp clean mountain air surrounding me. Oh what a wonderful moment in time captured here.....Enjoy and have a wonderful weekend....

Wallpaper Wednesday - Flocked is Back!!!!

 
I know what your thinking, but it's true, flocked wallpaper is back, better than ever and truly amazing. It's not your grandma's wallpaper any more. Check out this fantastic large print floral in the beautifully vibrant colors. The combination of the large print and the flocking really makes a statement and provides a fabulous textural element. 
 
From as far back as I can remember I have found myself drawn to things with different textural qualities, the softness of a great feathered pillow, the smoothness of a favorite silk blouse, the hard smooth texture of solid cherry cabinetry and the rough uneven texture of a great slate floor tile are all examples of how texture influences my life. It is such an important part of what I find visually appealing that I am always looking for new ways to introduce textural elements into my designs. I find great design elements are created by the use of texture that is both tactile and visual. Enter flocked wall paper..... well, what more can I say - Flocked Rocks!!!!
 
I think that the way that this chocolate brown more traditional type pattern, in a flocked paper contrasts and melds so beautifully with the sleek more contemporary style of the furniture and light fixtures. 
Give us a call and let us help you bring a little Flock into your world... 941-378-9964

Jewelry for your Cabinetry







There are some truly amazing new hardware selections available. There are a variety of shapes, sizes, colors and finishes to meet many different design styles. I like to think of the hardware as the jewelry, the finishing touch. The perfect hardware is like having the perfect accessories for a great outfit.