Cabinetry is trending across home design and social media channels as the essential fixture in every room from the kitchen and beyond. And, for good reason too! Design experts, such as Joanna Gaines, co-host of HGTV’s “Fixer Upper,” are known to use a cornucopia of cabinetry as a staple throughout the entire home.

CUSTOM CABINETS FOR THE KITCHEN AND BEYOND

Custom-made shelves and cabinets can add style and organization to your pantry, laundry room, hobby and crafting spaces, garage, basement, bedrooms, shared spaces and the all-important home office.

ADD MORE OPEN SHELVING

Interior designers like Gaines encourage adding “cubbies” and trying to incorporate shelving for all ages – from children’s to work-from-home spaces and more.

Another long-time design proponent of custom cabinetry is Lynn Noble, an author, photographer, designer and former QVC host. “We have custom cabinetry throughout our entire home,” says Noble. She adds that custom built-in’s provide the most organized, stylish means to bring calm, beauty, and ease into a living space. Noble, author of the book, “The Power of a Smile,” adds that custom built-in’s unify a room, allowing the homeowner to highlight a particular feature, such as a favorite heirloom, family photos, or a valued craft or work of art.

Another perk of cabinetry and shelving is the ease and simplicity of cleaning and organization. “Everything has a place, where it fits very, well,” observes Noble. She adds that custom fixtures will reduce dust and allergens that can collect under or behind furniture, another big plus in today’s home.

Custom cabinets can range from shelving to cubbies, entertainment centers, window seats, drawers, closets, and pull-outs. Plus, styles can range from sleek and modern to transitional, traditional, and farmhouse rustic—adorning the popular Shaker style cabinets.

CABINETS FOR EVERY ROOM!

Indeed, the sky is the limit when it comes to custom cabinetry. At Kitchen Magic, our design experts and craftsman work with homeowners to bring your wish-list to life. Here are just a few favorite rooms and ideas from the Kitchen Magic team:

• Laundry Room: Hide and store your cleaning and wardrobe essentials including detergents, clothing iron and ironing board, stain removers, etc.
• Kitchen Pantry: Optimize the panty area where copious products are stored with storage solutions that can roll out and allow easy access in organizational splendor.
• Home Office: Custom shelves can save precious storage space and add organization, lighting and other options available to optimize and reduce the stress of working from home.
• Basement: From entertainment centers to fitness and workout areas, a workshop or a crafter’s haven, custom cabinets in basement areas offer added functionality and a stylish look for almost and task at hand.
• Coffee or Wine Bar: Store your wine collection beautifully and adequately, or add a fully functioning cappuccino bar, coffee and/or beverage station.
• Great Room/Family Room: Save space in shared rooms with better storage options for everything from your TV and sound system, music library and more. There’s no better way to maximize the beauty of a room with than with custom cabinets.
• Mud Room: Stash and stow coats, footwear, seasonal gear, sports equipment and more with a stylish custom design inspired by the look-books of HGTV and Pinterest.

If you’re ready to change how your kitchen looks and functions, our free design consultation is fun and informative! Just give us a call at 866-525-7999, or click here to schedule your free in-home design consultation and estimate with Kitchen Magic right now!

Glass-front cabinets are a welcome addition to any kitchen design. Not only can they break up the monotony of repetitive solid cabinet faces, but glass doors also add both form and functional appeal. What’s more, this will create the impression of an open and airy kitchen space.

In case you’re thinking about kitchen cabinet remodel, now might be a good time to think about what they can do for your cooking area in Milford, CT. Let’s take a look at some glass-front door uses to help you incorporate them in a way that makes sense for your kitchen layout and style.

WHY SHOULD YOU HAVE GLASS CABINETS IN THE KITCHEN?

As of late, glass cabinet doors have become more of a staple than a trend in kitchen design. A few of the top benefits of glass-front cabinets include:

1. Creating depth to help make smaller spaces appear larger
2. Allowing for pops of color and seasonal décor that can be displayed behind glass-front cabinets
3. Leveraging available light and adding reflective interest to the overall design

Ultimately, sophisticated glass cabinet doors offer both functional and aesthetic appeal depending on what’s housed inside. Possibly the perfect alternative to open-shelf cabinets, glass-front cabinets will keep your collectibles safe and sound.

WHAT IS THE MOST POPULAR GLASS FRONT FOR KITCHEN CABINET DOORS?

While glass cabinet door fronts are available in a variety of textures, we’ve noticed three distinct trends when working with homeowners on their kitchen remodeling product selections.

1. ELEVATE YOUR KITCHEN DESIGN WITH REEDED GLASS

There’s one tiny problem with plain glass cabinet doors; you can see right through them. So, if you’re using them in cabinets that will house decorative dishes or seasonal décor – they’re wonderful. However, some households may be intimidated by clear glass because while there is storage, there’s less places to hide a hodgepodge of household items. In cases like this, reeded textured glass panels are a savvy choice. They provide all the benefits of glass doors while simultaneously camouflaging any mix-and-match kitchenware and any “the-kids-put-the-dishes-away” results away from viewers.

This particular style runs in vertical lines in a repetitive pattern. Keep that in mind and consider how it will complement other textures and patterns that you plan on incorporating into your kitchen design. For example, if your backsplash or floors have an element of direction in their patterns, you may want to opt for the next trend on our list.

2. ADD A SPLASH OF WATER GLASS

Water glass cabinet door panels are another popular option. They have a more complex and non-linear pattern, which works well in both contemporary and traditional kitchen designs. However, this pattern is slightly more transparent than the reeded version, so you’ll want to keep that in mind when deciding what to display behind them.

If your floors, countertop, or backsplash also have a more complex pattern, you may prefer the more simple texture of water glass. On the other hand, a streamlined contemporary kitchen can benefit from the energy water glass patterns can provide. Consider appliances with glass doors to complement glass-front cabinets in your new kitchen, like this built-in wine cooler:The clarity of clear glass

3. CONSIDER CLEAR GLASS FOR THE PUREST VISION

Water glass cabinet door panels are another popular option. They have a more complex and non-linear pattern, which works well in both contemporary and traditional kitchen designs. However, this pattern is slightly more transparent than the reeded version, so you’ll want to keep that in mind when deciding what to display behind them.

WHERE CAN I FIND EXPERTS IN KITCHEN CABINET REMODEL IN MILFORD, CT, AND THE REGION?

Looking for a trusted kitchen remodeling company near you? Kitchen Magic has a team of seasoned experts in the area that can make your project a success. Over the past few years, we have remodeled numerous kitchens throughout Milford and other parts of Connecticut. No matter if you live near Silver Sands State Park or elsewhere in the area, we’re at your service. We’ll help you understand your options from the very start and provide support along the way. Our team has the expertise and knowledge needed to renovate your cooking area diligently and hassle-free.

We’ll gladly discuss your preferred kitchen cabinet styles and requirements in detail, so contact us today for a complimentary in-home consultation and quote!

If you’re in expert advice on how to use glass-front cabinet doors in your kitchen remodel, schedule a free design consultation with Kitchen Magic! Just give us a call at 866-525-7999, or click here to schedule your free design consultation right now – it’s fun, informative and there’s absolutely no obligation.

Looking for more inspiration? Check out our 2022 Lookbook filled with our most popular kitchen remodels for almost every design style

Hydrogen peroxide is an affordable product that is often used to clean wounds; however, it can also be used to clean countertops, floors, and many surfaces. In fact, hospitals, restaurants, hotels, and other commercial properties use hydrogen peroxide to disinfect and clean a variety of surfaces.

Many people wonder is hydrogen peroxide safe to use on granite countertops. You can use hydrogen peroxide on granite countertops; however, it should only be used for stain removal or occasional disinfection. Hydrogen is great for occasional use; however, repeated applications can damage the surface of the countertop.

HYDROGEN PEROXIDE ACIDITY

Hydrogen peroxide is acidic and has a pH level of 6.2, which means it is a weak acid. You can use weak acids to disinfect granite countertops; however, repeated use can degrade the granite sealer and even dull or etch your granite countertop. Therefore, you should limit using hydrogen peroxide to stain removal and the occasional disinfection when your granite countertops seriously needed it.

There are other methods, which we will discuss below, that are better for routine cleaning and disinfecting. These methods clean and sanitize your granite countertops without the risk of damaging the finish.

THE CLEANABILITY OF GRANITE

Granite is considered to be highly cleanable and resistant to microbial growth. Studies have shown that kitchen and bathroom countertops do not need to be frequently disinfected or aggressively cleaned. Hospitals and other commercial spaces are teeming with bacteria and require constant disinfecting. This is not the case in homes.

You will need to disinfect your countertops occasionally; however, you do not need to disinfect your countertops daily. When you do disinfect your granite countertops, you can use hydrogen peroxide or any other food safe disinfectant.

HOW TO DEEP CLEAN GRANITE COUNTERTOPS

Deep cleaning granite countertops is designed to remove germs, bacteria, viruses, and other microbes. This can be done by washing and rinsing your granite countertops. When you wash your countertop with hot water and a mild dish soap and then rinse well using clean, fresh hot water, the majority of bacteria and germs will be removed.

Many people are confused about how soap works. Regular soap will not kill germs; however, it removes them from the surface. Removal is the most recommended cleaning method to remove germs from the surface; however, soap can build up over time. If soap is used as your regular cleaner, it can end up causing a film that attracts dirt and causes the countertop surface to look dull.

You can counteract this by rinsing well. When we say rinsing well, it means rinsing multiple times with a large amount of water. Unfortunately, this can be difficult on granite countertops. Flooding the countertop can result in wet cabinetry and flooring.

A better option is using only hot water. Hot water can effectively clean up common spills and crumbs. Dunk a sponge in hot water and scrub your granite countertop to remove all traces of stickiness and debris. At the end of the day, use a stone cleaner. Stone cleaners remove bacteria, germs, and other microbes without creating a filmy buildup. Once dry, your countertop will have a streak-free finish.

DISINFECTING GRANITE COUNTERTOPS

When disinfecting countertops, you want a disinfectant that is safe for granite countertops. Hydrogen peroxide is a great disinfectant for granite countertops. In order to disinfect the countertop, it must remain wet for several minutes.

Spray the entire surface with hydrogen peroxide and allow it to remain wet for at least five minutes. If your countertop begins to dry, spray the countertop with more hydrogen peroxide. Once the countertop has been disinfected, you must rinse the entire countertop and buff it dry with a clean, dry cloth.

Because hydrogen peroxide is slightly acidic, you should only use it to disinfect your countertops two or three times per year or whenever they have been exposed to a large amount of meat, fish, or poultry. If this disinfectant is used repeatedly, it can dull the shine of your granite countertops.

FINAL THOUGHTS

As you can see, granite is safe to use on granite countertops when used properly. Soap and water will remove surface bacteria. When you need to deep clean and disinfect your countertops, hydrogen peroxide can be used. Limiting the number of times hydrogen peroxide is used to no more than once every three to four months, protects the surface from damage while deep cleaning your granite countertops.

Two of the most popular countertop materials are marble and granite. Each has its own unique benefits, which is why they are loved by homeowners, interior designers, and real estate agents. If you or just beginning your countertop search, you may have difficulty differentiating between these two types of countertops. Marble and granite are both natural stones that are quarried from the earth. The main difference between these two types of countertop materials is how they are formed.

WHAT MAKES UP EACH TYPE OF STONE?

Each type of stone is comprised of different materials. Granite is primarily comprised of silica and quartz. Marble on the other hand is primarily comprised of calcium carbonate. Granite is formed when magma cools deep within the earth. Marble is formed when limestone is placed under intense pressure and heat.

Marble and granite are both heavy natural stones that are heat resistant and available in a wide range of colors and patterns. Because they are both created in nature the patterns and colors can vary greatly from slab to slab. Both types of stone are porous, and staining can occur. Annual sealing can minimize the risk of staining and keep your countertops looking great.

DISTINGUISHING BETWEEN GRANITE AND MARBLE

Although granite and marble are similar in appearance, under closer examination you can tell the difference between the two stones. Granite typically has flecking across the slab, while marble has veins that run across the stone. The colors found in granite and marble are based on the mineral content of the area. Both types of countertop material are available in a wide range of colors including black, brown, white, grey, green, blue, and pink.

WHAT IS THE MOHS HARDNESS SCALE FOR EACH TYPE OF MATERIAL?

According to the Mohs scale, granite has a hardness rating between six and seven. Conversely, marble has a hardness rating between three and five. As you can see, granite is harder than marble and can withstand what you throw at it. Marble, on the other hand, is softer and is better suited for low traffic areas like bathrooms.

Marble can be used in the kitchen; however, the homeowner must be diligent about routine sealing and daily maintenance to keep their countertops looking great. Today, marble quarried in Vermont like Danby marble is more durable and has a higher hardness rating and minimal water absorption.

WHAT IS THE STAIN RESISTANCE OF EACH TYPE OF MATERIAL?

Marble is quite porous and will absorb liquids upon contact and cause permanent staining. Some of the common substances in the kitchen that cause staining include tomato sauce, olive oil, lemon juice, wine, and vinegar. Granite on the other hand is more resistant to staining. No matter which countertop material you choose, regular application of a high quality sealant is necessary.

HOW OFTEN SHOULD YOU APPLY A SEALER TO YOUR NATURAL STONE COUNTERTOPS?

Granite countertops are somewhat stain resistant, which means they require less frequent applications of a sealer than marble does. On average, you should reseal your granite countertops once a year. however, there are some sealers that only need to be applied once every three years.

Marble is more porous and requires more frequent applications of a stone countertop sealer. on average you will need to reseal your marble countertops at least twice a year; however, if you notice liquids absorbing into the marble rather than pooling on the surface of the marble, you will need to reapply a fresh coat of sealant.

Test your countertop to determine if you need to apply sealer. Pour a small amount of water on the surface of your countertop. If the water beads and remains on the surface of the countertop your current sealer is still effective. However, if the water absorbs into the stone countertop you will need to reapply a sealer.

HOW SHOULD YOU CLEAN YOUR COUNTERTOP?

All that you need to clean granite countertops is a mild dishwashing liquid and soap. Wash the surface with soapy water and then rinse with fresh water. Finally buff dry with a soft cloth.

Marble requires careful cleaning. You must use a neutral pH cleaning product to avoid damaging the marble. Finally never use an abrasive cleaner on marble as it can mar the finish. Use a marble safe cleaner and then buff dry with a soft cloth

HOW MUCH DOES EACH TYPE OF COUNTERTOP COST?

Marble and granite countertops cost approximately the same amount. On average you can expect to spend between $40 and $150 per square foot. This price includes materials and installation costs. It is important to note that the color and the appearance of the countertop can impact the cost of the project.

CAN THEY BE USED OUTDOORS?

Both marble and granite countertops can be used outdoors when properly installed. You will want to use a sealer that offers UV protection to maximize the life expectancy of your outdoor granite or marble countertops.

HOW LONG WILL THEY LAST?

When properly cared for, your granite or marble countertops will provide you with a lifetime of beauty. To extend the life expectancy of your countertops, always wipe up spills immediately, always use cutting boards, never place hot pots and pans directly on the countertop surface, and never sit or stand on your countertops.

Granite is more durable than marble; however, both types of countertop materials are porous and can stain if left untreated. Many individuals prefer using granite for kitchen countertops and using marble for bathroom vanities and other areas with light traffic. However, you can use both types of natural stones in all areas of your home if you properly care for your countertops.

Routine maintenance, which includes a daily wipe down with a mild pH neutral detergent, monthly application of a topical sealant, and annual or semi annual application of an impregnating sealer will keep your countertops looking great. Remember to always wipe up a spill immediately to help minimize the risk of staining.

Deciding on a countertop for your kitchen or bathroom requires you to understand the difference between marble and granite. We have explained the key differences between the two types of countertop materials. We believe the final decision should be based on what you like and what speaks to you. If you loathe routine maintenance, you may prefer granite countertops. However, if the tranquility of marble draws you, opt for marble countertops.

Whether you opt for marble countertops because of their elegance or prefer the more traditional look of granite, the choice is ultimately yours. You will not go wrong with either of these natural stones. They both provide you with the unique, unmatched beauty that only occurs with natural stone countertops.

Take your time choosing between the two types of countertop materials. You should never rush it. Take samples home, place them on your current countertops and look at them for a couple of weeks. We know that during this time, you will find ones that you really don’t like. When this happens, take them off your countertop. Continue this until you are down to one. If after a week or two, you can’t decide between a couple of choices, talk to a countertop specialist. We can give you professional advice on the best countertop material based on your unique needs and interior design.

Waiting for a few kitchen decor trends to return? Don’t hold your breath. Design research shows that fads always reveal age. When a home trend reemerges, it appears different and unique to its era. So, if your kitchen has been frozen in time since you were rocking out to pop songs, here are seven solutions to seven outdated kitchen looks.

THE 80’S CALLED, THEY WANT THEIR KITCHEN BACK

It’s hard to believe the neon age was a generation ago. Busy textures and fun-loving, colorful styles of the past are being superseded by neutral hues and simpler designs. This may be a matter of maturing tastes and a desire for simplicity in our homes, surroundings, and life.

1. QUIRKY APPLIANCES NO MORE

If your kitchen is equipped with almond, avocado or textured appliances still in good working condition (thus, you disdain the idea of tossing it into a landfill), read on.

Instead, bring your kitchen into the future with gorgeous cabinet refacing and coordinating front panels to conceal dated appliances while transforming your home. Fully integrated appliances help to create a seamless look that blends in with your cabinetry.

2. WALLS AND BORDERS THAT SNORE

Nothing screams the 80s more than sponge-painted walls and borders. Ditto for outdated wallpaper trims. Instead, update the look of any space with fresh, new painted color palettes such as the 2022 color of the year Green Fog from Sherwin Williams.

3. OAK AND PINE CABINETS GALORE

Pining for a less busy species of wood for your cabinets? That must mean your kitchen is cloaked in heavy oak cabinets, knotty pine or clunky cathedral looks. Fret no more, you can free yourself from the 80s with cabinet refacing.

Refacing is a transformational solution that works with your existing cabinet boxes. Eighty percent of the materials in a kitchen are cabinet doors and drawers. So, homeowners are elated to see brighter hues when dark, foreboding cabinets are given new life. Laminating cabinet boxes and replacing doors and drawers can significantly update a room.

4. ANTIQUATED HARDWARE OF YORE

If your kitchen cabinetry is still sporting brass, antiqued, or exposed hinge hardware, it’s time to seek sleek new hardware options.

At Kitchen Magic, our knob & pull gallery is stocked with stylish hardware solutions, from stainless steel and brushed nickel to our signature new hardware collection, compiled through collaboration by Kitchen Magic’s in-house designer and Amerock. Also in vogue are gunmetal or black pulls and knobs making their way onto the kitchen scene. The current gold-toned finishes are seen as the jewelry to your new kitchen design.

5. FUSSY GEOMETRIC FLOORS TO ABHOR

Does your floor sport geometric patterns, faux brick or other complicated designs from the past. While linoleum was the groundbreaking material of its day, flooring materials are much more advanced today.

Instead, replace complex flooring with gorgeous new wide vinyl plank flooring. Plank flooring comes in a plethora of finishes, but remember the less complicated the flooring, the larger your kitchen will look.

6. DON’T POUT OVER GROUT

Replace tile with quartz to help your kitchen shine. Your kitchen may truly stuck in the eighties (sorry) if you still have hard-to-clean tile and grout countertops. It doesn’t have to take a pandemic to tell us that a food prep area and grout do not make a hygienic marriage. Daily cleaning will break down the sealant, leaving grout to absorb stains and germs. Instead consider durable and anti-microbial quartz countertops.

7. NOT A FAN OF FANS

Try swapping out large, bulky old ceiling fans with sleek pendant designs. Pendant lights, lanterns, and clear glass bring so much more to the kitchen in terms of design. While a fan serves as a functional item, lowering the temperature in a heated kitchen, it can sometimes seem intrusive to the design. We say, give some thought to other options to bring fresh air in, like exhaust fans and windows.

While you’re up there, popcorn ceilings, also known as acoustic or stipple ceilings, were popular in the 1980s to cover the damage. Today, homeowners prefer to cover popcorn ceilings with sheetrock versus tedious, dusty removal.

Today, hybrids are everywhere, from hybrid automobiles, trucks, and bicycles, to plants, puppies, people, and sports. Indeed, hybrids combine the best of two or three elements.

And with all the powerful combinations of kitchen styles, homeowners are discovering the myriad of reasons why a customized hybrid kitchen may be the perfect solution for their home remodeling project.

Are you wondering how to renovate a kitchen yourself? You can choose a dependable kitchen remodel company in Lehigh Valley, PA, and let the pros bring your vision to life.

TOP REASONS WHY A HYBRID KITCHEN MAKES PERFECT DESIGN SENSE

But first, what is a hybrid kitchen? It is a design plan that combines two or more cabinetry processes, including refacing and customizing your kitchen cabinets.

MAKE IT PERSONAL

A hybrid kitchen remodel may include custom-built cabinets, such as an island or pantry that perfectly match the refaced, existing cabinetry. The result is a highly personalized and transformational kitchen cabinet design.

Remodels like this will improve the aesthetics and function of a kitchen, while also increasing the property value should you decide to sell down the road. The 2022 cost vs. value report says that a minor kitchen remodel will return 74.7% of the investment.

HOW TO HYBRID: BIG AND SMALL KITCHEN REMODEL IDEAS

Our Designers propose solutions for storage problems, addressing issues you didn’t even know you had. Stacked dry goods in the garage or mixed in with dishware do not present a functional and organized kitchen. Designated storage for dry goods, spices, cooking essentials, and other everyday items will unclutter the heart of your home.

Currently, hybrid kitchens are so popular that a majority of the newly remodeled kitchens by Kitchen Magic utilize a hybrid design model. And their designers don’t see the trend slowing down as the formula always suits a custom solution for every customer. Even with the pandemic in the rear-view mirror, many remodeling homeowners still have storage on their wish lists.

Below are several of the most popular design scenarios for which a homeowner embraces a hybrid design plan.

PASS ON THE PENINSULA

Incorporate a custom-crafted kitchen island instead of a peninsula that’s more conducive to gatherings. More homeowners with older homes are bidding adieu to their kitchen peninsula, as the U-shape is a configuration that tends to “trap” people into a particular prep or dining area. Instead, allow your kitchen design team to create a kitchen island for increased workflow. The kitchen island is also a user-friendly layout for dining and social gatherings.