Untitled design (5)

A Small Space Remodel Story

by Interior RenovationKitchensRemodeling Tips

Custom Craft works in homes of all sizes, ages, and styles, but surprisingly, some of the most life-changing remodels happen in small spaces. 

People often think small spaces can’t be dramatically changed; it seems like there’s not a lot to be done. In fact, people often come right out and ask:

“Is my kitchen too small to remodel?”

The answer, of course, is no. All spaces have the potential to become personalized masterpieces, especially in the talented hands of Custom Craft designers like Grace Arndt, who believes the secret to a great remodel starts with our design process. Our carefully organized and methodical approach ensures our clients end their remodeling story with the homes of their dreams.

Let’s take a look at one of Grace’s recent projects to see how it works!

A Great Remodel Starts With a Great Conversation

This remodeling story begins with a lovely, retired couple (who got married during the remodel!), proud owners of a kitchen that had seen better days. Small, disorganized, and decidedly outdated, their space was ripe for reinvention. Their dream? A spacious, contemporary kitchen that would brighten their golden years and make entertaining a joy.

We started by meeting with the couple in their home to assess the space, understand their goals, and determine whether their budget and expectations matched what we could deliver. The couple shared their vision for a more open, organized kitchen with a contemporary flair — think clean lines, floating shelves, and a long statement window.

Determining the Details & Design

Next, Grace dove deeper into everything they wanted and needed in a kitchen. In addition, our clients sent Grace inspiration images so she could match their style. She noticed they had very clear preferences — like modern aesthetics and bright, airy spaces — and started to pull together a few ideas that would make this kitchen uniquely theirs.

Armed with a clear understanding of our client’s desires and lifestyle, Grace used Chief Architect software to develop two distinct options:

Option 1: The “Smart Refresh”

This budget-conscious plan focused on updating finishes and improving organization while keeping major elements, like appliances and doorways, in place. It was the kitchen equivalent of a smart makeover — impactful, yet mindful of costs.

Option 2: The “Dream Design”

This more extensive renovation included relocating the patio door and installing a show-stopping large window above the sink. While pricier due to structural changes, it included more elements our clients dreamed of for their perfect kitchen.

Balancing Dreams and Budget With a Preliminary Estimate

Our clients worked with Grace to combine some elements of both options into a third and final design. With this design finalized, the team was able to discuss preliminary costs. This step was crucial in setting expectations — we’re big believers in transparency and want to make sure every part of the project is plotted and priced precisely.

Refining the Vision in Design Development

With a direction chosen, Grace assembled palette options with complementary fixtures and finishes that matched our client’s style perfectly.

These decisions don’t mark the end of the design phase, however. Grace used ray tracing software to create virtual walk-throughs of the new kitchen complete with product selections. This is an exciting step — it really helps our clients visualize their future space and make confident decisions about layout and finishes. It’s simple to see how other drawer pulls, sink styles, cabinet colors, and more will look from every angle in the new kitchen. At this point, it’s easy and inexpensive to change colors and styles.

Their final choices for finishes all have the modern, sleek look they love, from the Astoria-style Legacy Crafted cabinet doors to the Calacatta Mirragio quartz countertop and backsplash. On the floor, they opted for COREtec luxury vinyl plank (LVP) in Laguna Oak.

With the design finalized and selections made, we prepared comprehensive construction documents. We reviewed every detail with the homeowners, clearly defining the scope of work, associated costs, and project timeline. Finally, our team ordered the materials, submitted the permit applications, and began construction on the soon-to-be-perfect kitchen.

The Final Reveal: A Dream Realized

After weeks of careful planning and skilled execution, we unveiled the finished kitchen. The transformation was stunning — a bright, open space that perfectly blended contemporary style with practical functionality. The large, wall-length window over the sink became the room’s centerpiece, flooding the space with natural light and offering beautiful backyard views. Our client loves how open and airy it feels — even in a small space!

See more photos from this project in our portfolio!

See the Portfolio

At Custom Craft, we’re passionate about guiding homeowners through every step of the remodeling journey. From that first consultation to the final custom home, our design-driven approach ensures that every detail is considered, resulting in spaces that our clients love for years to come.

Ready to start your own remodeling story? Contact us today, and let’s begin the journey toward your dream space!

What’s in Your Barbie Dreamhouse — And Could It Be Reality?

by BathroomsInterior RenovationKitchensLifestyle TipsNews

Barbie’s Dreamhouse may be a  bit  over the top. Or is it?

Thanks to new materials, reduced pricing, and designers’ creativity, our clients are already living in the dream house — although perhaps a little less pink. From slides for stairs to outdoor kitchens and in-home elevators, the Dreamhouse’s fabulous features are becoming a reality for more and more people. We sat down with Custom Craft’s newest designer, Grace Arndt, to get her take on the dreamiest items Bucks and Montgomery County homeowners are asking for in their newly designed homes.

Basement Remodels: Entertainment Central

If Barbie had a basement, it would surely be all about entertainment. It’s no different for our clients. For many homeowners, dream basements include full bars, big-screen TVs, and theater rooms with specialty lighting and luxurious seating. These homeowners in Schwenksville have the ultimate entertainment setup behind their bar, with open shelving, LED lighting, and even an embedded sound system perfect for choreographed dance parties. If Skipper ever gets tired of staying in her treehouse, we’re sure Barbie would also include a bedroom for guests to stay overnight, with a convenient full bathroom nearby.

Kitchen Remodels: Culinary Creativity

Chef Barbie would definitely dream of specialty features many Custom Craft clients already have in their space. Topping Grace’s list are functional items that are discreetly hidden yet easily accessible, like hidden pantries, built-in microwaves, and downdraft range hoods that come up from the countertop when needed. Oversized sinks with double faucets or even a second sink for a drink station may once have been luxurious but are now more popular. Of course, Barbie would settle for nothing less than top-of-the-line appliances like a smart refrigerator with a built-in TV or a large, professional-grade range and cooktop.

Bathroom Remodels: Luxe Retreats

What would Barbie have in her Dreamhouse bathroom? Grace is guessing a spacious zero-threshold shower, a deep free-standing tub, or maybe both. She’d also need a vanity table with great lighting to put on her makeup, heated floors, and a smart shower system so she could control the water temperature right on her phone. All of these features are common asks for Custom Craft projects.

Bedroom Remodels: Where Dreams Begin

While Barbie’s magical wardrobe may never become a reality, a well-designed walk-in closet with custom shelving (including plenty of shoe cubbies, of course!) comes close. Today’s homeowners enjoy large beds, lots of windows and natural lighting, and unique touches like exposed beams or pitched ceilings in their bedrooms. To make things extra dreamy, Grace suggests including an attached space such as an office or even a sitting area with a coffee bar to ease into your day.

Bonus Spaces

The bonus spaces in Barbie’s Dreamhouse, like the pool or party room, are what make it so special and are some of the most memorable spaces for our clients as well. Grace has loved designing:

  • Video game rooms with specialty seating, large TVs, and beverage refrigerators
  • Amazing offices with floor-to-ceiling shelving
  • Home libraries with rolling ladders
  • Laundry rooms with dog washing stations and gorgeous farmhouse sinks

And, although no one has requested a giant pink slide from the second floor to the pool (yet!), Custom Craft has built some fantastic outdoor areas like this covered deck that Barbie would be sure to approve of.

Every day, homeowners are discovering that dreamhouses aren’t just for Barbie — and that features they thought were out of reach are surprisingly obtainable. So don’t put your dreams off any longer. Contact us, and see how we can help!

French Door Wall Oven

Meet Your New Kitchen Crush: The French Door Oven

by Kitchens

Montgomery County homeowners frequently request French doors in their home remodels, from patio doors to office entrances to refrigerators. Recently, the elegant look and indisputable convenience of French doors are finding sizzling success in a new spot — the oven! 

What is a French Door Oven?

While traditional ovens have a single door that opens from the top down, French door ovens have two doors that swing open from the center. French door ovens are available as part of a free-standing range or wall ovens. They can be a single unit or part of a double oven. In this first-floor remodel in Perkasie, the Custom Craft team installed a double wall oven with a French door opening at the top. Whichever style you choose, there are several advantages you’ll enjoy. 

French Door Wall Oven

What are the Advantages of French Door Ovens?

Space-Saving Convenience

Traditional ovens extend an average of 20 inches into the kitchen floor space when open. This can present a challenge while cooking and create a lot of congestion, especially in tight spaces. French Door ovens take up significantly less floor space, leaving home cooks free to maneuver around, even with other people in the kitchen. This way, any awkward dancing in the kitchen is strictly intentional. 

Ergonomic Accessibility

Pulling a heavy roasting pan out of the oven can be a pain in the, well, back. Reaching into an oven with a large, hot door open in front of you puts your body in an awkward position and can strain your muscles. With a French Door oven, there is no barrier between you and your tasty creation, making it as effortless to take out that sheet of cookies as it will be to eat them. Furthermore, many are designed so that both doors open simultaneously, so you can hold your cake pan with one hand and open the oven wide with the other. 

Elegant, Sophisticated Style

Nothing brings timeless elegance to the look of your home quite like French doors. French door ovens are no exception and can become a stunning focal point in the kitchen. The double doors with sleek handles are reminiscent of European architecture, instantly enhancing your heart of the home whether your style is modern, rustic, traditional, or anything in-between. 

Location Flexibility

In any kitchen, oven placement is usually limited since it needs to be near the refrigerator and sink for optimal cooking convenience. This can create challenges and design limitations, especially in a small area. With a French door oven, there is more flexibility in placement, as they can still function in a tight space.

French Door wall oven

Why are French Door Ovens Popular? 

We’ve gone over the advantages of French door ovens, but are those enough to make the switch? Many homeowners are saying yes. Here’s why: 

Aging in Place

Most of America’s seniors say they would prefer to age in place — meaning they would like to remain in their homes for as long as possible. To accomplish this, certain accommodations need to take place to make the home safer. French door ovens provide easy access and are safer for homeowners in wheelchairs or with other mobility issues.

Tiny Homes

Many homeowners today choose, or stay in, smaller homes for cost savings. With tiny homes come tiny kitchens, and a French door wall oven is a great solution when space is limited.

Social Cooking

Custom Craft clients say they love having company while cooking but find it hard to move around when extra people are in the kitchen. With the space-saving advantages of a French door oven, there’s more open floor space and less congestion. As a bonus, the stylish look of a French door oven will impress even the most hard-to-please guest.

Are French Door Ovens, French Ovens, and Dutch Ovens the Same? 

When researching French door ovens, remember they are not the same as French ovens. French ovens are large, versatile, cast-iron pots used for braising, baking, sautéing, and more. They are very similar to Dutch ovens — the main difference being the enamel coating on the outside which allows them to be painted vibrant colors.  

Combining functionality with exquisite style, French door ovens are the next big thing in Montgomery County kitchens. Contact us to learn how to bring the classy convenience of a French door oven to your home.

French Door Wall Oven

Meet Your New Kitchen Crush: The French Door Oven

by Kitchens

Montgomery County homeowners frequently request French doors in their home remodels, from patio doors to office entrances to refrigerators. Recently, the elegant look and indisputable convenience of French doors are finding sizzling success in a new spot — the oven! 

What is a French Door Oven?

While traditional ovens have a single door that opens from the top down, French door ovens have two doors that swing open from the center. French door ovens are available as part of a free-standing range or wall ovens. They can be a single unit or part of a double oven. In this first-floor remodel in Perkasie, the Custom Craft team installed a double wall oven with a French door opening at the top. Whichever style you choose, there are several advantages you’ll enjoy. 

French Door Wall Oven

What are the Advantages of French Door Ovens?

Space-Saving Convenience

Traditional ovens extend an average of 20 inches into the kitchen floor space when open. This can present a challenge while cooking and create a lot of congestion, especially in tight spaces. French Door ovens take up significantly less floor space, leaving home cooks free to maneuver around, even with other people in the kitchen. This way, any awkward dancing in the kitchen is strictly intentional. 

Ergonomic Accessibility

Pulling a heavy roasting pan out of the oven can be a pain in the, well, back. Reaching into an oven with a large, hot door open in front of you puts your body in an awkward position and can strain your muscles. With a French Door oven, there is no barrier between you and your tasty creation, making it as effortless to take out that sheet of cookies as it will be to eat them. Furthermore, many are designed so that both doors open simultaneously, so you can hold your cake pan with one hand and open the oven wide with the other. 

Elegant, Sophisticated Style

Nothing brings timeless elegance to the look of your home quite like French doors. French door ovens are no exception and can become a stunning focal point in the kitchen. The double doors with sleek handles are reminiscent of European architecture, instantly enhancing your heart of the home whether your style is modern, rustic, traditional, or anything in-between. 

Location Flexibility

In any kitchen, oven placement is usually limited since it needs to be near the refrigerator and sink for optimal cooking convenience. This can create challenges and design limitations, especially in a small area. With a French door oven, there is more flexibility in placement, as they can still function in a tight space.

French Door wall oven

Why are French Door Ovens Popular? 

We’ve gone over the advantages of French door ovens, but are those enough to make the switch? Many homeowners are saying yes. Here’s why: 

Aging in Place

Most of America’s seniors say they would prefer to age in place — meaning they would like to remain in their homes for as long as possible. To accomplish this, certain accommodations need to take place to make the home safer. French door ovens provide easy access and are safer for homeowners in wheelchairs or with other mobility issues.

Tiny Homes

Many homeowners today choose, or stay in, smaller homes for cost savings. With tiny homes come tiny kitchens, and a French door wall oven is a great solution when space is limited.

Social Cooking

Custom Craft clients say they love having company while cooking but find it hard to move around when extra people are in the kitchen. With the space-saving advantages of a French door oven, there’s more open floor space and less congestion. As a bonus, the stylish look of a French door oven will impress even the most hard-to-please guest.

Are French Door Ovens, French Ovens, and Dutch Ovens the Same? 

When researching French door ovens, remember they are not the same as French ovens. French ovens are large, versatile, cast-iron pots used for braising, baking, sautéing, and more. They are very similar to Dutch ovens — the main difference being the enamel coating on the outside which allows them to be painted vibrant colors.  

Combining functionality with exquisite style, French door ovens are the next big thing in Montgomery County kitchens. Contact us to learn how to bring the classy convenience of a French door oven to your home.

Workstation Sink

Our Top 6 Finds from KBIS 2023

by GeneralKitchensRemodeling Tips

It’s home show season, and this year’s Kitchen and Bath Industry Show in Las Vegas was insightful and exciting. If you’re considering a custom kitchen remodel in your Montgomery County home, here are our favorite features from KBIS to inspire your design:

 Workstation Sinks

Workstation Sink

No counter space? No problem. One of our top finds from the KBIS show is workstation sinks. These space-savvy sinks are huge this year, even appearing in a recent Custom Craft remodel!

Workstation sinks are a simple but seriously clever solution for small kitchens with little counter space. Companies like Moen and Ruvati had their latest models on display at KBIS, featuring deep basins and a built-in ledge where you can rest a cutting board, drying rack, or strainer right in the sink, freeing up your coveted counter space.

Fluted Surfaces

From tile to countertops and even faucet handles, fluted surfaces dominated KBIS. Homeowners can add exciting texture and a unique look in the kitchen with a fluted backsplash, cabinets, or even on their kitchen island backing.

Dramatic Stone Countertops

Homeowners are beginning to take a bold step away from all-white or solid-color countertops, opting for surfaces with dramatic veining, interesting textures, and bold strokes of color. Along with adding a strong focal point, these countertops offer a touch of luxury and sophistication to any kitchen.

Color

Heritage Colors

A new and daring trend is here to replace the neutral era, bright, 70’s influenced shades like orange, yellow, blue, green, red, and purple take center stage in the world of design. At the KBIS showroom, colorful sinks and toilets were showcased, while numerous kitchen appliances were also adorned with these vibrant hues, evoking a sense of nostalgia and retro charm.

Industrial Style

Colfax

No-nonsense, organic, industrial styling is big in 2023, especially in kitchen sinks. From power-boosting spring faucets to the steam-punk-inspired Pfister Colfax faucet collection, these fixtures are both extremely functional and striking.

Sustainability

Unsurprisingly, sustainability was an overarching theme in KBIS this year. We love earth-friendly appliances like Samsung’s Bespoke collection — a line of (customizable!) refrigerators, ranges, dishwashers, and microwaves that prioritize sustainability from distribution to disposal. Even kitchen countertops are going green, like Consentino’s Pietra Kode collection. This stunning Italian stone-inspired countertop drew a large crowd and is sure to look amazing in any home.  

 

If you’re looking to upgrade or expand your kitchen, the ideas presented at the KBIS show are a foolproof way to get started. Need help figuring out how to make them work in your home? That’s what we’re here for. Contact us to set up a consultation!

Powered vanity drawer

Top 10 Storage Solutions for 2023

by BathroomsKitchensLifestyle TipsMudrooms

Was home organization on your list of New Year’s resolutions? Keeping your home clutter-free reduces stress, simplifies your daily routine, and makes it easy to stay tidy and ready for guests. The best way to organize your home is to set yourself up for success with the latest storage innovations. Here are ten simple but effective solutions for your Montgomery County home.

Kitchen Storage

 Of all the rooms in your home, your kitchen might have the most items to store — from cooking and cleaning supplies to bowls and bakeware. Fortunately, there are ways to make it easy to keep your heart of the home organized. Here are a few examples:

spice holder

Spice Holder

Straighten your spices without taking up room in your cabinets with a mounted spice holder! A rack like this is easy to install, looks great, and is fully adjustable to fit any cabinet setup.

Ultimate Pantry
Ultimate Pantry

Ultimate Pantry

Many items get stored in the pantry, so making the most of your space is important. A swing-out pantry allows smaller items, such as spices, cans, and dry goods, to be stored in front, while bulkier items like appliances, mixing bowls, and roasting pans can be kept in the back. Best of all, whatever you need will be easy to access with no shifting around required.

Under sink

Under-sink Pull-out

When cleaning your kitchen, the last thing you need is to be rummaging through the darkness under the sink for your supplies. With an under-sink cabinet pull-out, all your cleaning essentials will be within reach.

Knife Drawer

In-drawer Knife Divider

Many of us are used to keeping our kitchen knives in a butcher block on the countertop, but that’s not ideal when work space is limited. An in-drawer knife divider may be the perfect solution. With this feature, countertops stay clear, and knives stay organized, secure, and easily accessible.

Bathroom Storage

Bathrooms are usually the smallest room in the house but they house many of our everyday essentials, leading to cluttered countertops and chaotic closets. Here are a few ideas to bring order back to your bathroom:

Hidden step stool

Hidden Stepstool

Stepstools are a must-have in any home with young children, but they use a large portion of floor space. A great alternative is a hidden step stool that can be pulled out when needed and easily tucked away under the sink when not.  

Powered vanity drawer

Powered Vanity Drawer

Not only does this drawer keep hairdryers and flat irons neat, organized, and out of the way, it also has a built-in power strip — making it incredibly easy to get ready and get on with your day.

Bedroom & Laundry Room Storage

Guests may not frequent your bedroom and laundry room, but keeping these rooms clean and organized will ensure your day runs smoothly and help you get out the door on time. Consider options like:

pull-out hamper

Pull-out Hamper

Tired of airing your dirty laundry? Clothes hampers are always necessary but seldom pleasant to look at. Pull-out hamper drawers are a perfect solution to keep your laundry tucked away but still easy to grab and toss in the wash.

Pull-out Necklace Holder & Tray Dividers

It happens to the best of us — you’re getting ready to head out for the evening and have the perfect necklace in mind. But when you take it out of your jewelry box, you find a tangled ball that will take forever to straighten out. With a pull-out necklace holder, each piece has a spot, keeping them tangle-free and easy to find.

Turn any drawer into a spacious jewelry box with a tray divider. You’ll have all your options in plain view and keep your valuable accessories safe and organized.

Set yourself up for success with home storage solutions. Need more ideas? We can help. Contact us ­to find out how to keep your home tidy this year and many more to come.

Charging Drawer

Part 2 of Your Home Remodeling Guide: 5 Kitchen Trends for the New Year

by Kitchens
Home Remodeling Guide

This is the second blog in a two-part series focused on helping you create a 2021 home remodeling guide. In part 1, we discussed bathroom trends that will be big this year. Part 2 will focus on kitchen trends.

The kitchen is a place that you are sure to spend a lot of time in. Whether you actually like cooking or not, the kitchen is often used by every family member – a multi-purpose room of sorts where you gather for family meals, entertain, do homework with your kids, or catch up on work. 

Is your current kitchen designed to meet both your functional and aesthetic needs? Is it a practical and a comfortable space, where you enjoy spending time?

If you’re thinking about an upgrade, here are our top five 2021 kitchen remodel trends to keep on your radar. 

Trend #1: Pantries

Organization is key to any room in a home, but in the kitchen it’s absolutely essential (think: cookware, bakeware, utensils, plates, glasses, food…the list goes on). It’s a lot of stuff for one area! Up your pantry game by customizing it. Who says you can’t have it ALL in your pantry? Shelves, baskets, pop-in drawers, lazy Susans – you name it, use it. Rather than just stacking things on shelves, get creative and use other vehicles to store items. Group things by category to make your life easier.

 

Open Pantry
Double Pantry
Pantry
Hands Free Faucet

 

Trend #2: Touchless faucets

As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, people are hyper aware of germs these days, so touchless faucets are becoming more and more popular. They are also incredibly helpful when you are cooking and have messy hands. The touchless feature keeps your faucet germ- and mess-free.

Trend #3: Large Islands

Kitchen islands are very popular, as they add additional workspace and casual seating to the room. In 2021, large kitchen islands that incorporate storage are gaining traction, and we anticipate that this design will become a kitchen staple. 

Additionally, contrasting kitchen islands – where, for instance, the accent base color doesn’t match the cabinets – are growing in popularity. This is a simple way to make your kitchen pop. 

Island
Kitchen Island
Kitchen Island with Sink
Kitchen Island
Large Kitchen Island
Kitchen with Large Island
Kitchen Island with Seating
Large Island

Trend #4: Hidden Appliances

Why look at your appliances if you don’t have to? Unnecessary clutter is the arch nemesis of the kitchen!

Today, more people are interested in taking the focus away from appliances, through clever ways to hide them in plain sight. Here are a few appliances you can hide:

  1. Refrigerator: Compared to traditional refrigerators that typically stick out way past the counter, built-in refrigerators blend in and look flush with surrounding cabinets. This is a way to make your refrigerator appear to be less intrusive in the space. Some come with the option to add panels that match your cabinets, to make it even more discrete. 
  2. Dishwasher: In addition to your refrigerator, you can add panels to your dishwasher that match your cabinets.
  3. Microwave: Microwave drawers make this appliance less visible, while still enabling easy access when you need it. 
  4. Stand mixers and other miscellaneous small appliances: Use a slide-out cabinet to tuck these away. This type of cabinet is great for appliances that you don’t use every day. 
Microwave Drawer
Kitchen - Covered Fridge
Kitchen - covered dishwasher
Covered Appliances
Range Top
Mier Lift
Mixer Lift
Charging Drawer

 

Trend #5: Charging Stations

In our digital age, everyone’s looking for a charge! We’re seeing increased interest in having more plugs available to accomodate all of your devices. Since many of us are working and schooling from home, there is a demand for more power. Installing hidden charging stations – in a drawer, for example – are great ways to keep your devices hidden.

We hope our 2021 kitchen home remodeling guide has given you the ideas you need to inspire your next kitchen makeover! 

Interested in learning how these trends could play out in your own space? Or do you have a home remodeling project in mind you’d like to discuss? We’d love to hear from you!

Contact us
Check out our design process
cookies

Master Holiday Baking with these Creative Kitchen Remodel Ideas

by KitchensLifestyle Tips

Whether you’re looking for easy DIY ideas or long-term kitchen remodel projects for holiday baking, this blog post has you covered. 

cookiesThis holiday season is sure to look very different from years past, as families continue to practice social distancing and limiting indoor events that could promote the spread of COVID-19. 

With this in mind, instead of inviting family in for a holiday meal, use our current circumstances as a chance to send treats out! It’s never been a more perfect time to share your favorite cookie or treat with those closest to you and let them know you care.

If you are a first-time holiday baker, it may seem overwhelming to prep your kitchen for a large quantity of baked goods. However, there are some easy ways to make your space more functional. If you’re a holiday baking pro, on the other hand, perhaps you’re thinking about that kitchen remodel you’ve always wanted to transform your space into the perfect at-home bakery. 

Either way, in this blog post we share some ideas to turn your kitchen into the perfect place to create delicious treats that will spread lots of holiday cheer!

Short-term DIY Tips

If you’re looking for a quick fix to make holiday baking easier, there are a few things you can do to turn your kitchen into the ideal space for turning out baked goods.

    1.    Use a rolling kitchen cart to create temporary storage that can house all of your baking supplies. By adding a kitchen cart, you don’t need to rearrange your entire kitchen, and you can stow it away in a closet or pantry when it’s not in use. (Bonus tip: find a kitchen cart with a solid surface top that you can double as additional work space).
    2.    Create a workspace. If you don’t normally keep a large section of your countertop cleared and ready for mixing, rolling, etc., clear the clutter and set a dedicated space that you can use throughout the baking season.
    3.    Use glass containers or mason jars to store smaller supplies (i.e. cupcake liners, cookie cutters, etc.), so you can see the contents of each at first glance. Consider keeping the most used items out on your workspace, and put the rest on your cart or in a cabinet/pantry where there’s extra space.
    4.    Group the ingredients needed for each baking project into their own storage space (i.e. a basket, bin, etc). This will help streamline the baking process and save time. 
    5.    Tuck away infrequently used items. As you’re reorganizing, you’ll likely come across kitchen items that you don’t often use. Don’t let them take up prime real estate for nothing! Tuck these items away for potential future use, or even consider selling or donating them. This will free up more space for baking and other items you use more frequently. 
Longer-term Kitchen Remodel Ideas

If you’re an experienced baker, perhaps you’re looking for a more permanent solution for holiday baking that will benefit you for years to come.

Create your ideal workflow
The flow of your kitchen is as unique as you are! While designers recommend creating a triangle with your sink, fridge, and stove, the rest of your kitchen layout should reflect how you will best use the space. Take counter space, for example. There may be a need for ample prep space to fit a stand mixer, roll out dough, etc., so make sure to keep things like this in mind when you’re laying out your kitchen remodel.

Get organized
No matter the size of the space or scale of your kitchen remodel, it’s important to optimize the space you have to store all of your baking supplies and equipment.

  • Dedicate an entire cabinet or large drawer (or both!) for your baking supplies so everything is one place. Ideally the location of the cabinet or drawer would be near where you plan to do most of your mixing, rolling, etc.Mier Lift
  • Build a tall narrow cabinet for storing baking trays/sheets upright.
  • Install a spice cabinet. Use it to store your sprinkles and decorative items.
  • Build a cabinet for your heavy stand mixer, so it’s easily accessible. You might even consider putting a lift in the cabinet to make it even simpler to access.
  • Consider an area – whether it’s a shelf, cabinet, or something else – to store all of your cookbooks and written recipes. Ideally this would be close to your work station.
Consider your stove(s) If you’re looking to purchase a new oven, opt for one that has a convection setting. Convection heat cooks food more evenly, so it’s perfect for most baking. The setting also does wonders for other types of non-baking cooking, like roasting. If space allows, you might also consider adding a second oven so you can bake more than one thing at a time. Pick out functional finishes and fixtures. There are a lot of ways to bring together function and style.
  • For countertops, choose a solid surface finish that is ideal for rolling out dough (granite, marble).  
  • Ever try to wash your hands after they’ve been handling sticky dough? By adding a touchless, motion-activated faucet, you don’t have to worry about getting your sink handles dirty.
  • Be sure you install ample, bright lighting, so you’re able to clearly see the treats you’re decorating. 
  • It’s critical that you have access to power in the right places, so you’re able to plug in a stand/hand mixer and other items. Not a fan of how outlets look? Add pretty outlet covers or consider hiding power access by putting an outlet in a cabinet or other covered areas.

It doesn’t matter if this is your first year or 10th year holiday baking – there are both small, simple add-ons, and larger, more permanent kitchen remodel upgrades to make your space work best for your baking needs. And even though this year may look different, you can (and should!) still enjoy your space and baking for loved ones.

If you’re ready for a remodel or have a project in mind that you’d like to discuss, we’d love to hear from you! 

Holiday Cookies

Kitchen Renovation Ideas – How ”at-home” chefs can optimize their space to hone in on their craft

by Kitchens

Are you – or someone you know – an “at-home” chef?  Great cooking is an artistic expression in its own right. But, despite how skilled you or your loved one may be, your kitchen design can make or break the process, creating either a blissful experience or a massive headache. 

We’ve had the opportunity to do kitchen redesigns for several cooking enthusiasts, and have found that while the style can vary, there are generally some non-negotiables that all cooking-lover-kitchens should have. In this blog post, we break these down into three core areas: 

1) Layout & Storage 

2) Appliances & Lighting

3) Materials & Finishes

Whether you’re looking to optimize your kitchen to hone in on your craft, or are just curious about how the pros make it happen seemingly effortlessly, read on!

1) Layout & Storage for Seamless Efficiency

Nail the layout by creating a “working triangle” The layout is critical and serves as the foundation of this space. The “working triangle” theory asserts that your three main work areas (sink, refrigerator, and stove) should form a triangle. Depending on the size of your kitchen, your designer can help you determine adequate distance between each, but generally you want to find a balance – not too far apart, but not too compact either. This will enable comfortable movement and flow between your prep work at the sink, grabbing ingredients from the fridge, and the actual cooking or baking at the oven. 

Create convenience by establishing “work zones”  We recommend making each point of the triangle and the surrounding areas individual work “zones” – meaning that the different steps of the cooking process, and all of their necessary tools, should be centralized. When you’re working with a kitchen designer, align on the stations that will work best for you as a cook, to ensure that the design and layout accommodates enough storage space and surface area. 

Your zones can vary, but these seven are pretty standard:

  1. Prep zone: Your sink/large counter area that should include your knives, peelers, trashcans, etc.
  2. Cooking zone: This is your stove/oven area that should include accessible storage space for things like pots, pans, and large utensils.
  3. Baking zone: This should be near your oven, so consider it the next-door neighbor of the cooking zone. It includes your roll trays, baking sheets, measuring cups, spices, and other must-haves. One nuance is that the more “professional” chefs tend to keep spices and oils away from the stove, as heat damages/weakens them.
  4. Beverage zone: This can include counter space next to your refrigerator, to enable easy access and pouring of juice, water, coffee, etc, and can also include space for the coffee maker. Ideally your glasses (and coffee grinds/k-cups) will be housed in a nearby cabinet and drawer.
  5. Lunch-packing zone: Dedicate a cabinet or two above or below counter space – ideally within reach of both your snack pantry and prep utensils – for food containers, reusable water bottles, napkins, foil, etc. 
  6. Cleanup zone: Cleanup supplies are typically centralized under or around the sink (next-door neighbor of the prep zone), including cleaning liquids, paper towels, and trash bags. We encourage you to store anything with chemicals out of the reach of children. 
  7. Entertainment zone: A large island is ideal for guests and can be dual-purpose, with one end for snacks and seating, and the other for you or your chef(s) to prepare dishes, while still remaining in close proximity to friends and family. The flow should enable guests to move in and out of the kitchen without disturbing the cook. The cook’s end of the island should be closest to the prep, cooking, and refrigerator zones, while the guests’ end should be closer to the entryway into the living room.

Fit more “stuff” while reducing clutter with creative (and ample) storage spaces

For example

  • Pantry systems
  • Nook you can put behind your oven for oils
  • Spice rack (or a “secret drawer”)
  • Peg systems to store plates in drawers
  • Spice inserts/pull-outs
  • Corner cabinet (lazy susan, leman’s unit, magic corner)
  • Special dividers for baking sheets to avoid cramming
Wine Storage
Spice Drawer
LeMans
LeMans cookwear pullout
Drawer Dividers
Baking Sheet Dividers
Pot Filler
Dish Dividers
Coffee Bar
Pull Out Shelves
Mier Lift
Mixer Lift
Hidden Spice Pullouts

2) Appliances & Lighting for Function & Lifestyle

Select appliances based on your lifestyle

Selecting the “right” appliances for your kitchen will vary depending on a few factors. Ask yourself these questions: 

  • Which appliances do you use most often?
  • Which foods do you cook the most?
  • Are you a vegetarian? Or do you eat meat or fish often?
  • Do you have a large or growing family? 
  • Do you host guests often?
  • Do you shop weekly? Or once or twice a month in bulk?
  • Do you use speciality cookware? 

The answers to these questions will help you determine the right appliances, including the size and layout of your refrigerator, freezer, and dishwasher, and whether you’d benefit from two small ovens or a single large one, two sinks, etc.

In terms of appliance quality, we find that more advanced cooking enthusiasts will invest in longer-lasting, state-of-the-art stainless steel appliances. Whether your budget limits you to commercial-grade appliances or not, you’ll want to ensure a large ventilation system to accommodate for heat, smoke, and vapor. 

Strategically store your appliances 

When it comes to the positioning of larger appliances, consider the “work zones” we mentioned before. As for the smaller, countertop appliances (blenders, food processors, mixers, bullets, etc), it’s important to create a home for them. No one wants to travel to the basement or garage to retrieve them, as it creates inefficiency and hinders your workflow. We’ve found that more and more people are looking to keep their frequently used appliances plugged in and ready to use, but want them out of sight. For this, we’ll often build an appliance garage, built on a centralized countertop behind “doors” – making it easily accessible but without clutter.

Alternatively, you could use a large drawer, or store them in a walk-in pantry, if you have one. For heavier items – like a mixer – you can add a moveable stand for it, so you don’t need to lift it (ideal for bakers!). 

Mixer Lift

3) Materials & Finishes That Blend Style & Function

Flooring     Choose flooring that is comfortable, easy to clean, and fits your style. The obvious choice for most is hardwood, as it’s visually appealing and easy to maintain. However, it all depends on the style of the rest of your kitchen – you want it to match! For example, the material and color of your flooring will vary for modern, vintage, and southern-style kitchens. 

Countertops   Similarly to appliances, serious chefs will opt for stainless steel to withstand heat and stains, and for easy maintenance. For an eco-friendly option, consider recycled glass countertops (these are also heat-resistant). If style and self-expression are important to you, ceramic tile and porcelain offer a wider variety of colors and enable more creativity, while still maintaining heat and stain-resistance. 

Conclusion

Ultimately, your cooking-lovers-kitchen can and should blend function with style, according to your budget. We’d recommend starting with a list of your “must-have” kitchen items, and go from there!

If you’re in need of a kitchen contractor, please contact us! We can have a virtual design meeting, or we can meet at our Design Center (we have several COVID-19 protocols in place, which you can find here). If you’re concerned about budget, let’s chat and we’ll determine what is feasible. 

Want to see some of these kitchen remodel ideas in action? Check out our kitchen portfolio page for before and after pictures!