Posts Tagged 'kitchen remodeling budget'

Completing the Ensemble: The Importance of Quality Decorative Cabinetry Hardware by Dennis Serge

Published June 27, 2014 Decorative Hardware , Designer Blog , Kitchen Design Trends , Kitchen Products , Kitchen Remodeling Advice , kitchens , Remodeling , Uncategorized 2 Comments
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Dennis Serge of Kitchen Views

Customers face a great many decisions when designing or renovating their kitchen. For whatever reason, choosing the hardware for their new cabinetry can sometimes be one of the more daunting selections. Frequently, the questions my clients ask me fall into one of three categories:

WHAT COMBINATION OF KNOBS AND PULLS (HANDLES) IS BEST FOR ME?
Some people like the simplicity of using knobs throughout the kitchen. Others, especially in a more contemporary design, will use all pulls. Most folks seem to prefer a combination — knobs on the doors, pulls on the drawer fronts, or vice versa. Also, consider how the pull or knob feels when you pull on it. A pull might look great, but if it doesn’t feel comfortable to you then it will quickly become annoying. One great thing about visiting our showroom is that you can try out the function of decorative hardware that is installed in our inspiring kitchen vignettes. The truth of the matter is that there is no right and wrong here. The deciding factor is what is most functional for your family and looks the best in your eyes.

This drawer pull has crisp features that look great. But delicate hands might find this pull uncomfortable to use.

This drawer pull has crisp features that look great. But delicate hands might find this pull uncomfortable to use.

WHAT HARDWARE WILL CONTRAST WELL WITH MY NEW CABINETS?
Beyond the obvious observation that a highly stylized, contemporary hardware will tend to look out of place on very traditional, raised panel cabinetry, consider what style is currently popular and see if you think they are a good match for your cabinets. Plain chrome and polished brass hardware can look nice on certain styles of cabinetry, but for the most part they have given way to finishes like brushed chrome, oil rubbed bronze, and other weathered type finishes. These should remain popular for years to come, and are not a “trendy” choice like some glass hardware, hardware with inserts, and other styles that a customer might tire of a few years down the road.

This cabinet pull with curved shape and textured surface works well with traditional or contemporary cabinetry.

This cabinet pull with curved shape and textured surface works well with traditional or contemporary cabinetry.

HOW MUCH SHOULD I EXPECT TO PAY FOR MY HARDWARE?
Here the old adage applies, “you get what you pay for”. Don’t be afraid to ask if the hardware you are considering is solid metal or an alloy, of if there is a warranty on the finish. If the hardware is too inexpensive or poorly made, it can literally begin to tarnish in just a few months. Hardware is the finishing touch on your new kitchen, and it can be a focal point that enhances or detracts from the overall appearance you are trying to achieve. As an example, imagine if you will, watching a glamorous actress stroll down the red carpet in an exquisite designer gown, and then seeing that she is wearing obviously cheap dime store costume jewelry. It ruins the whole ensemble. It’s much the same with cabinet hardware. Don’t make the mistake of skimping on the hardware to save a few dollars at the end of the project.

The finishing touches make all the difference.

Dennis Serge | Showroom Sales & Design
Kitchen Views | 71 Maple St, Mansfield, MA
dserge@kitchenviews.com

Kitchen Design & Home Improvement Go Hand in Hand. Survey results show 55% of consumers plan to do a kitchen remodel.

Published November 6, 2013 Kitchen Remodeling Advice , kitchens , News , Remodeling , Uncategorized 3 Comments
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Amy Mood of Kitchen Views works with a client and her daughter on a kitchen remodeling project

A recent online survey done by remodelormove.com shows that American consumers are feeling more confident in spending money toward home improvement projects.  The survey had 5,000 participants who answered a range of approximately 70 questions to determine if the majority would rather move or remodel. Every participant showed interest in making some sort of improvement to their current home.  The results show consumers are willing to spend around 30% of their home’s value for the home improvements.

With long-term value being a factor in remodeling, homeowners are willing to use more expensive materials in their projects. A majority, 74% responded that they plan to hire a general contractor to do the work, rather than undertaking projects themselves. Along with hiring construction professionals, more than half of the respondents plan to hire an architect. Homeowners are planning their projects on a larger scale and are including multiple rooms, and will be better served having professionals to oversee the project.

The percentage of homeowners planning to do a kitchen remodel is right above the halfway mark at 55%. Kitchen remodels are taking precedence over baths, according to the survey, and this is where consumers are willing to invest more of their budget. Since the contemporary kitchen is the hub of family activities, this is really an investment in improving family life.

Kitchen Views at National Lumber has experienced designers to serve you through every phase of your remodeling projects. We can supply you with the building supplies you need and the services you deserve. Those services include getting to know the unique needs of your family. Your particular tastes and lifestyle are factored into the design. We strive to exceed your expectations. One of our designers will follow the project from concept to completion. Kitchen Views at National Lumber, where the designers are pros and the views are yours!

Resource: Americans Willing to Spend More to Remodel, Survey Says

The Best Ways to Stretch Your Kitchen Budget – Lee Turner

Published June 19, 2012 Designer Blog , Kitchen Remodeling Advice Leave a Comment
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Most people want to find ways to stretch their kitchen remodeling budget, while still getting all the features they need or want. Many think that getting their cabinetry from a big box store will be less expensive, but in the long run it could cost you a lot more. Anything can be made to look good in a picture. But you don’t live in a picture. If the cabinet boxes are not constructed well, they won’t hold up over years of use. Then they would need to be repaired or replaced. If you design the kitchen layout yourself, you could very well end up finding that the layout doesn’t work well for your needs. You don’t want to make an investment in your home and later say to yourself “I wish I had thought of (fill in the blank for your situation).”  Trained kitchen designers bring experience to these decisions and can advise you on the best way to meet your needs for function and aesthetics.

Dynasty by Omega Kitchen Cabinets

Dynasty by Omega Kitchen Cabinets

The Kitchen Views design team specializes in providing quality cabinetry that is durable as well as pretty. Money can be saved by staying away from painted cabinets, appliances that need matching cabinet panels and very specialized cabinets. One exception is that I believe no kitchen is complete without cabinets for trash and recycling. Having waste receptacles strategically placed makes chores so much easier, and the room looks better. These are just a couple of examples explaining why having a knowledgeable designer is so important.

Working with a Kitchen Views designer won’t cost you more; it will actually be the most economical way to get the kitchen you love that will stand the test of time in everyday life. We love what we do, and are excited to help you create a kitchen you will love to live with for years to come.

Lee Turner
Kitchen Views at National Lumber
15 Needham St, Newton, MA 02461
617-244-8020
Email: lturner@kitchenviews.com
Web: www.kitchenviews.com

Don’t Let Your Budget Limit Your Kitchen Design

Published November 15, 2011 Designer Spotlight , Kitchen Remodeling Advice Leave a Comment
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Bob Russo, ACSD/PKBP

This article is from Kitchen Views Magazine’s Premiere issue, Fall 2008:

“Look outside the box – literally! No one says you have to use a wall cabinet on the wall,” says designer Bob Russo. He knows that innovative ideas can make any budget go further, whether you’re spending $3,000 or $30,000.

“If you know the ins and outs of cabinetry construction, you can use them in different ways,” he says, excitedly drawing an example. “Say you need a 12″ base cabinet for a narrow passageway. Don’t pay extra to modify a base cabinet, which is 24″ deep, use a wall cabinet, which is already 12″ deep and therefore costs less.”

With 33 years in the business, Bob has a long history of helping homeowners create their dream not only on paper, but within their budget.

“One customer came to me frustrated because she wanted an island in her new kitchen. Her architect, contractor and designer told her it would be too costly – her kitchen was too small and they’d have to knock out a wall or add on. By moving things around, I found a way to make it work without changing the project scope,” he says modestly.

One of Bob’s favorite budget exercises is to split your wish list into two columns: “must have” and “nice to have.” By helping people prioritize, he can figure out how to help them save money and still have an amazing looking kitchen.

“For example, you can use detailed cabinets with a rich finish for an island with a complementary but simpler look on the periphery. Or, use the new Formica that looks like granite instead of paying for stone. We have a full palette of options and even a few tricks,” he reveals.

Another way Bob helps homeowners is by showing them the pros and cons of different options so they can make informed decisions.

“When you’ve crossed as many bumps in the road as I have, you know how to find a way around them,” says this veteran designer and Air Force Vet. “I like to do everything I can to exceed my customer’s expectations.”

Bob Russo, ACSD/PKBP
Kitchen Views at National Lumber
15 Needham St. Newton, MA 02461
Phone: 617-244-8020
Email: brusso@kitchenviews.com
Web: www.kitchenviews.com

Make a Small Kitchen Remodeling Budget Go a Long Way – Lee Turner

Published May 25, 2011 Designer Blog , Kitchen Remodeling Advice 1 Comment
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Very few people can afford to say that money is no object when remodeling their kitchen. Most of my clients want to know how to stretch their kitchen remodeling budget to get the most things they want for the least amount of money. My bottom line answer: When budgets are tight, design experience is even more valuable.

A knowledgeable kitchen designer is your best budget stretcher. Experience is the best teacher, so a homeowner cannot hope to learn it all even through online research. You should find an experienced designer to guide you through the planning process and the selection of products. If you cut the wrong corners, the cheapest option won’t hold up in the long run.

First of all, keep an open mind to what the expert suggests. If you have your heart set on something that is particularly expensive, it could swallow your whole budget. A good designer will help you to include all the necessities while working within your budget, and sometimes even a wish item can be included. Finding the right products is essential, and you need to trust your designer’s knowledge and experience. Also, don’t feel that you have to follow a trend; your kitchen should meet your needs and reflect your style so that you will enjoy it for years.

You should spend your money on the bones of the room – the cabinets. But you need to select the right cabinetry for your specific situation and budget. For example, money can be saved by staying away from painted cabinets, appliances that take matching panels and very specialized cabinets. That said, there are still a lot of choices and an innovative designer can show you how stock cabinetry can be used creatively instead of purchasing a specialized cabinet for a particular task.

The Kitchen Views design team is renowned for innovative, cost-saving solutions. Call 1.508.DESIGNS (337-4467) to make an appointment with a designer in your area.

Lee Turner
Kitchen Views at National Lumber
15 Needham St, Newton, MA 02461
617-244-8020
Email: lturner@kitchenviews.com
Web: www.kitchenviews.com

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