Copper is the New Black

Copper is nothing new. Estimations place its origins at approximately 9000 B.C. It was used for tools in Jordan, tubing in ancient Egypt, and jewelry in the Far East – which is obviously a very brief blip of its history of uses over time, including in the home.

Architects favor copper as a home accent in many respects because it ages beautifully. But homeowners are seeing those benefits more and more, resulting in more copper accents and home elements available. The International Builder’s Show in Las Vegas earlier this year reflected that, with many traditional accents now sporting a vintage style, dressed in copper.

In the Kitchen

Copper sinks provide a beautiful accent to your kitchen design, but there are also several other benefits. First, the anti-rust properties of copper make the material an ideal choice for the kitchen, since sinks are rarely completely dry.

Additionally, there is no special approach necessary for cleaning them – clean a copper sink just like any other. In fact, copper contains several antimicrobial properties that kill bacteria in a matter of hours, as opposed to traditional sink materials that can foster a rich bacterial environment for weeks if not cleaned properly.

Other great places to put copper in your kitchen might be:

• Suspended range hood
• Countertops
• Refrigerator
• Cabinet doors, or alternatively, door handles and drawer pulls

In the Bathroom

Copper sinks in the bathroom are lovely too, but what about a copper tub? In the vintage, claw-foot design, a copper tub and shower fixtures, sinks and drawer pulls can really turn your bathroom into an Italian-style oasis. Not to mention, there’s that anti-rust benefit and the antimicrobial properties that make copper a great fit for the bathroom.  

Design Options

Not only is copper pleasing to the eye, but, unlike many other materials, you can choose from a variety of styles to get the exact look you desire for your room. If you want a little more bling in your style, consider a smooth, shiny finish. If the look you want is a little more vintage, consider brushed or hammered copper.

You can even find copper sinks and tubs with etched designs and tones. Have the copper coated (or frequently use a light wax coating) to preserve that rich, red-brown color, or you can have it exposed to water and air to form patina designs in blues, greens and yellows.

Copper is known to have a “living finish,” which means that how it looks over time can’t be controlled entirely. It will age and it will react to acids that come in contact with it (for example, lemon juice, pineapple, tomato and vinegar will damage a patina finish). So, while it’s stunningly beautiful, if you’re looking for perfection, copper may not be for you. But if you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind accent to your kitchen or bathroom renovation, HA Construction is happy to add copper accents of your choosing to the final design. 

Design Your World With Houzz.com

You have your heart set on remodeling your kitchen. So you hit Pinterest in search of ideas. You enter “kitchen design” in the search criteria, and while you might find pictures of some things that you like, they all link back to such a wide range of websites that it’s hard to cull all of the information into something cohesive to simply put your ideas together.

Which is likely why Houzz.com is building substantial momentum in the social media world. Started by a couple who found the endless stack of magazine (i.e. Pinterest posts) overwhelming when they planned their home remodel, Houzz is a collection of images posted by homeowners and service pros showcasing awesome designs and features.

Not only are the posts you’ll find inspiring for your own design, but Houzz also helps you to find a construction professional in your area, so you can see pictures of the work they’ve done and can know whether they’re a good fit for you based on more than reviews (though those are available too).

Not only do you get the chance to search through photos of completed work, but you can search for and even buy products for your own projects right there on the site. Choose a room from the menu at the top and then an element, and you’ll find a wide range of options both in style and budget.

Houzz also does the Best Of Houzz awards every year, which is a homeowner-to-homeowner guide showcasing the top rated home builders, architects, interior designers, landscaping pros and other residential remodeling professionals on the site (including painters and countertop pros). Winners are determined by the number and quality of client reviews each professional received in the previous year. This helps homeowners to truly find the best of the best contractors in their community.

Follow HA Construction on Houzz and check out all of the great ideas that our projects can give you for your next renovation.

Fred & Sharon's Renovated Kitchen

Fred, a metals artist, had had enough of the sea of red wallpaper in his kitchen. Not to mention the outdated fixtures and counters. Fred enjoys finding new beauty in old things – creating sculptures from old silverware and other upcycled materials. However, the kitchen, as well as the adjacent laundry and half-bath, of his Fremont Hills home needed to be completely overhauled  -- nothing in these outdated rooms was worth making an artistic statement.

One of the standout elements of the new kitchen design Andy and his HA Construction team did for Fred and his wife, Sharon, are the granite countertops with a stunning  design/color. The contrasting lines and textures of the counters and cabinetry are one of Andy’s favorite elements. The beautiful shelf window over the kitchen sink also stands out, providing a great view and plenty of sunlight for some lovely houseplants.

As Fred explains it, the half-bath in its previous state was nothing more than a closet you could barely turn around in. It now has space enough to do a salsa dance… space which may later house a shower to finish the bathroom off. For now, Fred is happy with the new, spacious comfort it provides.

Fred also raves about the excellent work HA Construction did overall with this project. They were timely and efficient, two characteristics that Fred sincerely appreciates. And, he and Sharon are, of course, very pleased with the finished product.

Designing Your Kitchen Pantry

As we conclude our look at designing the ultimate kitchen, down to every detail, we certainly can’t leave out that element you’ll find yourself using several times a day: the pantry.

Pantry Styles

There are lot of factors that go into the design of this ultimate dinner-prep storage space, not the least of which is where it should be located. Now, if you’re doing a remodel, then the options here are somewhat limited. You may be able to redo a closet space that already exists, or turn pre-existing cabinets into a more functional pantry space. You could also put in an additional wardrobe sized cabinet built to suit your pantry needs.

Basically, it comes down to three designs: reach-in, pull-out or walk-in. Reach-in pantries are the most common, often used in a small closet or built in cabinets spaces. The pull-out option isn’t always convenient, but works great when space is limited. And, of course, walk-in pantries are every cook’s storage dream.

If you’re building a kitchen from scratch, or doing a full scale, gut-all-the-way-down-to-the-studs remodel, you have a lot more options on space and style. Consider the following types of pantries to fit your storage needs:

• Slide out cabinets with floor to ceiling storage racks and shelves, when your overall square footage is limited
• Turning the rarely-used dining space into an enclosed, room-sized pantry
• A walk-in pantry that allows for enough space to turn around and view everything
• Built in cabinets that aren’t deep but provide plenty of shelving for ample storage
• Utilizing a lazy-susan style cabinet for added storage in smaller spaces

Check out these images of awesome pantry ideas for more brainstorming options on your own space.

The Essential Storage Rules

Regardless of the type of pantry you want and the amount of storage you have, you should keep these “golden rules of storage” in mind as you plan:

• The Food Prep Zone – Your pantry, whatever the size or shape, should be located as close to the food prep and/or cooking zones as possible, in order to make your cooking time function efficiently
• Determine What You’re Storing – Before designing your pantry, figure out exactly what you’ll be storing there and plan the height and depth of shelves and drawers based upon what you’ll have in the pantry (whether it’s canned goods, extra appliances or cookbooks)
• Avoid Layers – Design the pantry so that items can be stored in a single layer, with nothing behind or beneath. The goal is being able to see everything at a glance, so you can find what you need and inventory is done quickly
• Store Front to Back – Put the things you use the most in the front of the pantry, and the things you use less often toward the back, or at the furthest point from the opening, that way you’re not having to constantly dig for what you need.

Don’t Forget

There are a couple of things you may not think of when it comes to your pantry design, but will later wish you had. Consider locating the pantry near a landing zone – countertop space next to (or inside a walk-in pantry) where you can put bags of groceries as you unload them into the pantry or where you can put several items as you take them out of the pantry for food prep.

Also, discuss with HA Construction the best lighting options for the style of pantry you’ll be utilizing, whether it’s a reach-in or a walk-in. Walk-ins, of course, typically have their own light switch for overhead lighting, but you might also want to consider under cabinet lighting for the shelves. That may also come in handy for a reach-in or pull-out option, depending on the design.

Double Wall Oven Hype

Kelly Ripa has a double wall oven. You see it in several of her Eletrolux commericals, such as the one for the fridge, and she’s done several demos of the style for the brand. Okay, so we don’t know for sure that she has one, but we’re certainly led to believe that she does. And that she needs them to keep up with all of the people she has over.

They question is, do you need a double wall oven? In the midst of that build or kitchen remodel, this is certainly something to consider. Sure, they’re great in theory – wonderful for when you’re cooking a Thanksgiving dinner for the masses – but are they worth the investment in the long haul?

They May Come in Handy

When you look over forums online which question the worth of a double wall oven, most folks rave about them. There seems to be a no-turning-back mentality from those that use them. As mentioned, they are perfect for cooking for large groups.

Having double wall ovens also provides the option to cook fish and cookies at the same time, without transference of flavor. And for those ladies (or gentlemen) that enjoy baking and do so regularly, it’s like winning the lottery. Additionally, the upper wall oven (and the bottom, depending on installation) eliminates the need for bending over to utilize it.

Things to Consider

Because of the unique installation requirements for wall ovens, you really can go from a regular range/oven combo to a wall unit unless you’re building or doing a full-scale kitchen remodel. Or, of course, replacing a pre-existing wall oven.

Wall ovens are available in widths from 24 to 36 inches, most of which are smaller than traditional range ovens. Many double wall oven combos have a smaller unit on top, and if you fail to determine the exact measurements you need, you may end up with a wall oven that a typical full-sized cookie sheet won’t fit in (a common complaint among forums).

Also consider that many double wall ovens have a convection oven on the top and a standard oven on bottom. Standard, conventional ovens surround the food with hot air, while convection ovens circulate the hot air with the use of a fan, which is said to cook more evenly. What you go for just depends on what you’re used to cooking with.

As far as cost goes, wall ovens are usually only a couple of hundred dollars more than range ovens – but double wall ovens mean you’ll be paying for two, so consider that in your budget. You likely won’t have to worry about gas vs. electric, as most wall ovens are only available in electric. Those that are gas are the smaller models at 24 inches and may cost more.

What it all Broils Down To

When considering whether to install a double wall oven or keep it singular, it really just comes down to your budget, available space and how much you’ll use both ovens. If you’re an avid baker and often cook for a large family, then it may be worth it to have the double wall ovens installed. HA Construction can help you determine what will work best for your budget and available space. 

Kitchen Décor | Back Splash Tile

We’ve had a few posts now on kitchen design elements that can work together to create a versatile and stylish cooking and entertaining space. Another one of those elements – one that really allows you to make a statement – is the back splash.

But not just any old rimmed countertop back splash. We’re talking fully decking out the walls between the top of your counters and the bottom of your cabinets with beautiful, eye-catching tiles.

And the design possibilities are seemingly endless.

Wowing Through Tile

According to Andy here at HA Construction, a tile back splash is the crown of the kitchen – the cherry on top, if you will. Not only does a tile backsplash make for an easily cleanable service, but it provides opportunity for aesthetic appeal. While your countertops and cabinets are generally a neutral tone, the tile back splash can be that pop of color and creative whimsy that really pulls everything together.

From a builder standpoint, the tile is mounted directly to the sheetrock between the back of your countertops and the bottom of your upper wall cabinets. Square tiles can be anywhere from one inch to the common four inch option.  You can choose tiles all the same color, some with hand-painted designs,  or a mix and match colors and designs to create something unique.

Types of Backsplash Tile

Don’t limit yourself to simple square options, especially if you want to let out your creative side. Other backsplash tiles include:

• Subway Tiles – usually something like 3x6 inches
• Glass Tiles – provide a reflective surface for another dimension t the design
• Mosaic Tiles –often come in one foot squares of several tiles put together on a mesh backing to save time
• Laser Cut Tiles – cut in beautiful shapes to create elaborate designs when pieced together on the wall
• Diagonal Design – turn ordinary square tile on the diagonal to take it up a notch
• Wallpaper Style – some companies can customize overscale patterns to repeat, producing a wallpaper effect through tile
• Herringbone Tile – also available on a mesh 12x12 backing, herringbone provides a chevron design (very popular right now)
• Custom Shapes – don’t be afraid to think outside the box and look for oval tiles or other shapes

HA Construction previously used a lot of tumbled stone in backsplash designs, but recently glass tiles have become popular. Again, don’t be afraid to get creative – the space over the stove usually lends for plenty of room for a fun pattern even if you plan to keep the rest of the backsplash neutral.

Maybe that’s why it’s called a “backsplash” – so you can add a splash of excitement to your kitchen décor. (Okay, we know that’s not the case, but we’ll go ahead and take the liberty to believe it to be true anyway.)

Kitchen Décor | Glass Cabinet Doors

Looking for a way to put Grandma’s china on protected display without the space hogging bulk of a china cabinet? The glass doors on your kitchen cabinets, and some strategically placed lights, may be an excellent option for you.

A Touch of Elegance

Whatever you want to display, glass cabinet doors give you the opportunity to add to your kitchen décor while still optimizing space. Even if you simply have a stylish daily-use dinnerware set that you want to show off, replacing your kitchen cabinet doors with a glass option may be just what you need.

And it doesn’t have to be just a plain piece of glass; there are many styles available to choose from. Etched glass cabinet designs provide a decorative touch all their own, with a vast array of styles and transparency levels.  Use more opaque glass to showcase the colors of your dinnerware, but hide less appealing designs.  Choose translucent glass cabinet doors with an etched border design so that you still make your dinnerware a centralized element of your kitchen décor. Other decorative options for the glass include:

• Frosted – great for a modern décor
• Textured – with a pattern, but can become outdated
• Seeded – pocketed with tiny bubbles (smaller bubbles showcase dishes better), provides a vintage chic look 
• Leaded – traditional with a range of styles from Gothic to Craftsman, stained glass is an option

Finding the Right Balance

While it may be tempting to change out every cabinet door in your kitchen for a glass option, consider that there can be too much a good thing. After all, you really don’t want to show the world you mismatched pile of Tupperware.

Consider adding glass doors to the kitchen cabinets at the corner to showcase your favorite items. Or balance breakup the repetition of a series of plain cabinets along one wall with a glass cabinet door in the middle.

Less Expensive Alternatives

If you want the look of glass cabinet doors on lower cabinets, but have a toddler around, durability may be a concern. Likewise, if your teenager has a tendency to be more abrupt when closing cabinets, glass may not last long. In which case, you can still obtain the decorative element you’re vying for, and be certain it will last, by installing cabinet doors with clear or opaque plastic in them. Few will notice the difference.

Or maybe you just want something a little different. Consider these alternative cabinet door fronts too for a variety of decorative options:

• Chalkboard Panels
• Cork Panels
• Corrugated Metal
• Decorative Wire/Metal Mesh or Chicken Wire
• Fabric
• Galvanized Metal
• Punched Steel

Glass cabinet doors can certainly add a beautiful touch to your kitchen décor. But keep in mind that whatever you display needs to be neatly arranged to maintain the elegant appeal. And keep the window cleaner handy to maintain a smudge free zone. To learn more about your glass cabinet door options or to start working on a design plan, contact HA Construction.

Harkness Kitchen Renovation (complete July 2012)

We started working on this kitchen renovation for Julie and Bobby Harkness in February of this year. I helped her develop a design that would lend to a much more open floor plan. We took out the wall dividing the dining room from the kitchen and brought the kitchen out toward the dining room more. We also added a door to backyard to make it more accessible. We built a full-sized pantry and added an office space for Bobby.

In our collaborative design, we fixed issues like:

• The previous layout had Julie traipsing all over the kitchen, from one side to the other, in order to access the refrigerator, sink and pantry while cooking. We brought those things into a central location.
• The refrigerator used to be right in the path from the dining room to the kitchen, making it difficult for someone to pass by if someone else was in the fridge – we remedied that.
• Previously, the only way into the backyard was through the sunroom. The back door we added provides immediate access, especially for the dogs.

We put in cabinetry with slide out shelves – something that is very popular because it allows homeowners to access the items in the back without a lot of work. Additionally, we updated the brick fireplace by wrapping in it stone and building a new mantle. We also added a bar top and stools along the pony wall dividing the dining room and living room, which creates a place for someone to eat, watch television or work on a laptop without committing themselves to the lazy couch.

One design element that I must also point out is that the cabinets opposite the window and next to the oven are built INTO the wall, rather than hung on it. We framed the oven base and part of the upper-cabinets into the wall, with the extreme uppers surface mounted. This provides a little more walking space and accommodates bar stools at the island. It also added a design element that I think looks great.

We had a lot of fun working with the Harkness family. They were very encouraging throughout the project and I enjoyed every trip I made to their house. I think we will be working with them in the future, too.

~ Andy

Key Elements of a Kitchen Renovation – Part 5: Special Features

There are aspect of a kitchen design that you’ll be able to customize so completely, that you don’t even have to include them at all, if you so choose. While these top three special features have made it to most home owners’ “must have” lists, how you work them into the project design is wholly up to you and HA Construction.

The Island – Convenience and Extra Space

A kitchen island is a countertop (and usually lower cabinetry) that stands on its own in your kitchen, touching no walls. Best suited for larger kitchen spaces, putting in an island allows you to determine the work flow for your kitchen. Just remember that not every kitchen is suited for an island – you must have at least 36 inches of walk space on all four sides.

Most use an island for extra counter space, something that many kitchens seem to be short on no matter how large they are. Utilizing this centralize counter space makes it easier to reach all other sections of your kitchen, rather than cutting vegetables at one end of the kitchen and then attempting to transfer them to the stove on the other side.

Another option is to place your sink in the kitchen island. This also allows for better flow, since most everything you do in the kitchen either ends up in the sink, or requires you to wash something. Just think about how many times you wash your hands while you’re cooking.

You can also place your range on your island. If you’re one of those gourmet cooks that spend a lot of time stirring things on the stove, this is an excellent feature. If you extend the island to create a bar, then your kids can work on homework or your husband can use the laptop while you cook, making for more family time. Just remember that it’s hard to vent a range in the middle of the kitchen – HA Construction recommends simply going without a vent system – it’s not something so essential that you can’t put the range there.

Regardless of what you use the top of the island for, don’t miss out on the opportunity to get extra storage space by placing cabinets and drawers in the lower portion. Even if you don’t think you need them, it’s pretty much guaranteed that you’ll end up using them shortly after your kitchen renovation is complete.

Family Time in the Breakfast Nook

Again, if you have the space available, then a breakfast nook is a great addition to your kitchen remodel. After all, no one really sits at the dining room table for a bowl of cereal. With everyone in your family scrambling (no pun intended) around to get ready for work and school in the mornings, you’ll appreciate a place to sit together, even if just for a few moments, and enjoy each other’s company.

You could do an inviting bench seat in the corner, nestled up to a window with an old-fashion, square metal table. Or you extend the countertop of your kitchen island and place bar stools under it. You could even go a bit more formal and get a beautiful, round wooden table with matching chairs. What you do with it is completely up to you, in keeping with the style of the rest of your kitchen remodel. Who knows, the breakfast nook may even be the element you design your entire renovation around.

Space to Expand in the Pantry

Storage, storage, storage – you just can’t do without it in a kitchen. One of the best ways to optimize your storage is by having a pantry. After all, you’ve got to find somewhere to put all those cans and boxes of food. Or maybe you use it for other things, like your large (but rarely used) cooking devices (such as the bread machine, popcorn maker or wok).

Whatever purpose it serves, you won’t find many cooks who don’t crave a large pantry they can stand in the middle of and mull over dinner options. Many kitchens are without pantries, leaving home owners to attempt creating a sudo-pantry in the garage or laundry room, which is often inconvenient. Without a pantry, your kitchen cabinets fill quicker with non-perishable food items and you suddenly run out of room for dishes and the like.

Basically, a pantry is a closet, and the size depends entirely upon (again) the space you have available. You can do anything from putting in a large floor-to-ceiling cabinet with rows of shelves, to creating an closeted abyss you can get lost in. Just keep optimal reach and storage options in mind, such as shelves that can handle weight, and don’t require a stool to get things down – after all, most people don’t want to accidently drop a can of split peas on their head trying to reach for the pumpkin.

Let HA Construction Help

These last, but just as important, elements of your kitchen renovation are entirely customizable and dependent upon your chosen design and available space. Andy and his crew at HA Construction can help you determine what your best options are so that you get what you want (or as close to it as possible). Give him a call and get an estimate on your project. It certainly can’t hurt to hear his vision for your space.

Key Elements of a Kitchen Renovation – Part 4: Appliances

While we’re not talking about the coffee maker, here (though it’s important to many in its own right), as you plan your kitchen remodel, you’ll want to examine those large appliances that make every day a little bit easier: the refrigerator and the range/oven.

Of course, if you’re pleased with the ones you already have, or at least pleased enough that you don’t want to spend money on new ones, then, by all means, work them into your design scheme. However, if you need an all around update to the two electronically powered devices you use most in your kitchen, you need to know what to look for.

Refrigerators

As with everything else that goes in a kitchen these days, refrigerators come in a wide range of design styles. Everything from stainless steel to vintage looks are available. They even make refrigerators that have faux wood doors to seamlessly blend together with your kitchen cabinets (although, Andy at HA Construction does not recommend using this option because they are hard to clean and often fall off - stainless steel is his best recommendation). Other elements that go into the design of your fridge include the option for a built in, or a counter top height style (drawers instead of doors). Different door styles and colors are also available.

If the new-fangled counter-top design makes you leery, don’t worry, the ever popular types of refrigerators are still available and probably will be for a long time. These obvious choices include:

• Freezer on Top – The most popular choice, by far.
• Freezer on Bottom – Ideal for those looking to have fresh food at eye level.
• Side-By-Side – The freezer and fridge are next to each other, rather than layered.

When examining features, you’ll find them in plenty. As you decide which refrigerator is best for your needs, take these possible features into consideration:

• Ice maker
• Exterior Ice dispenser
• Water dispenser (interior or exterior)
• Water filtration system
• Adjustable shelves/bins
• Temperature-controlled crispers

Range/Oven – Gas vs. Electric

As far as ranges/ovens go, you’ll certainly have to choose a design style that will fit your kitchen renovation, as well as a size (do you want four burners or six) and functionality that fits your usage and budget.

However, all that aside, the main aspect you’ll have to decide on concerning your range/oven is whether to purchase one that uses gas or electric. There are four main considerations when it comes to making this decision:

What You Had Before – If your kitchen renovation budget is tight, then you’ll probably want to buy a new range with the same element as you had before (gas or electric), because, in order to change from one to the other, HA Construction will have to do some rewiring. For example, if you had an electric range and decided to go with gas, then you’d need a gas line put in. However, if you have room in the budget, go for it!

Cooking Preferences – Many people swear by gas stoves for cooking purposes because they are known to cook more evenly and give you more control over the cooking temperature. Electric ranges often wear out and become somewhat unreliable for cooking, with ovens that cook too cool, or the medium setting on the range knob turning out to actually be high.

Operating Costs – Many are concerned that the operating costs for a gas range vs. an electric range have a significant difference. Truth be told, there are just two considerations: gas ranges cost more upon initial purchase than electric ranges and it’s generally more expensive to operate an electric range than a gas one.

Safety – While some might be concerned that the open flame of a gas range is more dangerous, either range type can cause a fire. What can be of concern is the possibility of a gas leak, or failing to turn the burner off completely and allowing gas to escape. Be sure you have exterior venting for the gas to escape out of your home if you use a gas range. You may encounter vents that filter smoke and/or vapors and they are fine for electric ranges. However, exterior venting is a must with a gas range. HA Construction does not recommend down draft venting in this case (an exterior vent that is supposed to pull fumes down under the house) because they are ineffective and costly to install.

Other Range Considerations

Once you determine whether you’re going to use gas or electric for cooking purposes, you’ll then want to look at features. If you decide to go electric, then you’ll want to determine which cooktop is best for your usage habits: solid disk elements, smoothtop surface or coils. Smoothtops radiate heat, are easier to clean and work best with metal cookware. Disk and smoothtops require perfectly flat cookware for optimal performance. Coils can be a great option for electric stoves, and are easily removed for cleaning, but they often become off balance over time, cooking unevenly.

There are also special features worth considering, regardless of whether you buy a gas or electric range. Decide if you want any of the following before choosing your range:

• Self-cleaning capabilities
• Digital oven programming (as opposed to dials)
• Additional storage at the bottom
• Oven window and light

If you’re having difficulty deciding on the best appliances for your new kitchen paradise, then ask Andy and HA Construction for suggestions and tips. Also, be sure to visit a few appliance stores and pick your favorites at each, comparing prices and features, before making your final decision. After all, you’ll be using these appliances on a daily basis, so you need something functional that will last, in addition to providing aesthetic appeal.

Key Elements of a Kitchen Renovation – Part 3: Fixtures

No matter how small, there are several less significant elements to your kitchen renovation that warrant consideration, not just a whim purchase. Everything from what you use to open your cabinet doors to what you get water from will make an impact on the overall aesthetic appeal.

Cabinet Pulls or Knobs

The choices on this one can be a bit overwhelming to first-time renovators. While HA Construction can help you determine a design that will balance other elements within your kitchen, whether you use pulls or knobs is the first decision you have to make.

For starters, you have to know the difference. Knobs are secured to a drawer or cabinet with one attachment point, and come in a variety of shapes and sizes – though you first thought when you think “knob” is likely round and the size of a quarter. “Pull” is another word for handle, which secures to cabinets or drawers with attachment points. Pulls are usually linear, though they may have some form of curvature for design purposes.

If you’re looking to replace the hardware because you want an inexpensive way to update the cabinetry, then you’ll want to match your new items with the holes already there. In this case, you’ll want to find the “Center-to-Center” (also known as CC, C to C, or drill centers) dimension, which is the distance from one attachment point to the other. However, if you end up liking something with a different CC measurement, then simply add a backplate to the new pull to cover pre-existing holes and you’re all set.

While going with pulls or knobs (or nothing at all) can make a variety of statements, so can the design – and there are just too many to list. Keep in mind, however, that most designs have both pulls and knobs in the line – which means, you can always use both, say, with pulls on the cabinets and knobs on the drawers.

Choosing a Faucet

Design (style and finish) is a crucial element in choosing the faucet for your kitchen, but there are other factors to consider too:

• Endurance – You will use this piece of hardware every single day, which means you need something that will stand the test of time.
• Functionality – Again, everyday use here, so you will want a faucet that fits your particular use needs (more on this later).
• Comfort – If you’re using it so often, you don’t want it to feel awkward.

So, most importantly, you need to make sure your faucet works with the sink you choose – or the sink you already have if you’re not replacing it – which means, you’re going to have to read the next HA Construction post before you make your finalized decision. However, nothing says you can’t start looking at faucet options now and narrow it down to your favorites.

Once a sink is chosen, you’ll want to remember three points when you finalize your faucet choice:

• Make sure the faucet fits in the sink hole cut-outs
• Select a faucet size that complements the size of your sink – rather than looking miniscule or overbearing, you want balance between the two
• Be sure that your faucet, or the extra accessories like the sprayer, will reach every inch of your sink space

When you start looking at faucet options, be sure to try them out in the showroom so you know how they feel and work before you buy. HA Construction recommends choosing a sink that is ADA compliant (Americans with Disabilities Act) if you’re looking for something with maximum resell value.

Faucets are made of four materials: cast brass, tubular brass, stainless steel and plastic (usually the faucets with color). Keep in mind that plastic faucets have plastic components, and that means more chance for problems. There are four valve systems available: ball, compression, ceramic disk and cartridge. Each has its own set of benefits, so you’ll want to discuss which is the best option for your needs with HA Construction, though ceramic disk valves tend to be the most reliable. Additionally, HA Construction recommends spending a little extra and choosing a name brand faucet, because replacement parts are much easier to come by than those for off-brand options.

Faucet Style and Options

When you start looking at the design elements for your faucet, you want something that matches the style you're going for overall in your new kitchen. For example, if you're creating a modern look, then stainless steel will be one of your top choices. If you're learning toward vintage or Tuscan appeal, then you'll probably want a brushed copper faucet. What you choose goes beyond color scheme, though.

You'll probably find yourself overwhelmed by this list of faucet styles, but there are several functional design options available to choose from, any of which can add to your kitchen aesthetic or break it, depending on what you choose:

• Single handle faucets
• Single handle with side sprayer
• Single handle with pull-out sprayer
• Two handle, centerset faucet
• Two handle, widespread faucet
• Two handle, single hole faucet
• Two handle basin tap faucets
• Wall-mounted faucet
• Commercial style pot filler faucet
• Commercial style pre-rinse faucet

Finally, you’ll come across several options for functionality that may seem rather appealing. While many of them are great additions if it's within your budget, HA Construction recommends that you stay away from cutting edge technology when it comes to your kitchen water spout. In most cases, these technologies still have bugs to work out before they're viable for everyday use. The operating features you may come across include:

• Scalding prevention set with a temperature peek
• Green faucets that help conserve water
• Water filtration faucets
• Touching the faucet anywhere to turn it on/off (poses a problem when you're simply moving the faucet to another part of the sink)
• Motion-sensor operation (this hands free feature also has problems - think annoying it can be to try and turn on the water in public restrooms with this feature)
• Adjustable Spray heads that pull out of the faucet itself
• Special coatings that make the surface of the faucet easier to clean

Decisions, decisions – and they just keep coming at you. A kitchen remodel is a large task to take on, which is why you’ll want to enlist HA Construction to help with the process. Andy and his staff will be certain that decisions on the smaller elements, like cabinet pulls and faucets, don’t become overwhelming for the home owner.

Key Elements of a Kitchen Renovation – Part 2: Countertops

The items in your kitchen that will definitely see the most use, if you cook at all, are the countertops. You chop, clean, serve and mix there. The kids sit and watch you work your culinary magic, coffee gets spilled and sugar sprinkles the surface. Sweet smelling pies are on display, and hot pans are ready with dinner for all (sure hope you used a hot pad!).

With all this wear and tear, there is no doubt that deciding what countertops to put in your newly designed kitchen can be a daunting task. Generally, there are four factors that come into play when looking to choose your new countertops:

• Cost
• Visual Appeal
• Maintenance
• Durability

As you start looking at the available options, ask yourself which of these factors are a priority and what makes them important to you. You also need to know specifically what you’re looking for in each category.

For example, if you have little ones around the house, time is precious and highly limited, therefore, choosing to go with concrete countertops, even if they’re the next best thing, may not be the option for you because they require a lot of maintenance.

Let’s take a look at the types of countertops that HA Construction can use to revitalize your kitchen.

Everyone’s Favorite – Granite Countertops
Everything from black and brown to green and coral is available in granite. The rumors are true however, this is usually the most expensive option. The actual cost depends on the color you choose, the finish, and where the stone is from. For example, if your top choice of granite is imported only a couple of times a year, then it’s going to be much more expensive than something that is readily available.

Granite comes with two surface finishes:

• Polished – This finish is, of course, shiny with a darker color tone
• Honed – This is a matte finish with softer color tones

Stone Countertops
There are several options for other natural stone counters at varying degrees of cost and durability. However, it’s important to note that natural stone is a softer material and many will need sealant on occasion. As a general rule, only clean natural stone with mild soap, water and a soft cloth. Avoid using cleaners containing bleach or ammonia as well as scouring pads. Always use a coaster and hot pads.

Natural stone options include:

• Marble Countertops
• Limestone Countertops
• Sandstone Countertops
• Quartz Countertops

While natural stone adds more value to your kitchen remodel, engineered stone is also available. Engineered stone is much more durable than natural stone and comes in many more color options. Unfortunately, however, it’s just as expensive as the real thing.

Concrete Countertops
The newest trend that continues to grow in popularity is the concrete countertop. Don’t think for one moment that you’re limited to the gray color of most city sidewalks (though that may be what you’re looking for); pigment additives allow you to choose any color you want for your kitchen.

Unfortunately, as great and modern looking as concrete countertops are, they are pretty high maintenance, as far as counters go. Quick and/or extreme temperature changes may result in warping. Spilling something acidic, such as orange juice, or leaving something wet on the surface will cause discoloration. Preventative maintenance includes adding sealant quarterly and waxing every other month.

There are three concrete counter top finishes:

• Smooth – known as “trowel”
• Sanded – known as “ground,” this exposes the sand aggregate
• Pressed – the veining, which looks somewhat like marble, is exposed

Wood Countertops
This is ofter butcher block countertops, and has many benefits, such as easy use as a cutting board and the ability to sand out scratches from that use. They do need frequent oiling to protect from water damage.

Solid Surface Countertops
Seamless, a multitude of color choices, stain resistant and scratches are easy to repair – it’s no wonder that solid surface countertops are also a popular choice. The only main concern is the risk of damage caused by hot pans, so be sure to use hot pads, trivets or keep hot pots, pans and bakery on the stove.

Laminate Countertops
Truth be told, laminates are the most popular for smaller budget kitchen renovations, and, due to their affordability, may be your best option when you hire HA Construction to do the job. Most laminates are made to look like all of the above options, so you have a pretty vast selection for whatever design you may choose. Of course, laminate countertops aren’t as durable as granite, but they’re reliable for the price.

Other Considerations
As you make your countertop decision, you’ll be faced with choices regarding the types of edging you want. Edging options (depending on the material) include:

• Bevel – Like beveled glass, a beveled countertop has a sloping edge
• Bullnose – rounded edge similar to a half-circle (full bullnose) or a sloping plain (half bullnose)
• Eased – also known as “flat” or “square,” this edge has no design elements, it is just simple flat at a 90 degree angle
• Egg – a molded, decorative edge that has a half egg shape
• Ogee – a tilted “S” shape to the edge
• Radius – an edge with rounded corners

HA Construction can certainly help you decide which countertop type, color and edging fits within your budget, aesthetic approach and needed durability. And, if you’re having a hard time deciding between a pair of options, ask Andy what you can do to fit them both in, such as solid surface countertops and a granite topped island.

Key Elements of a Kitchen Renovation – Part 1: Cabinets

You’ll find that the biggest part of your kitchen renovation budget will go toward the cabinetry – likely about half. A big ticket item like that means a lot of pressure to make the right decision, so you don’t regret it later. HA Construction can help you to choose what works best for functionality and your personal style, but there’s nothing wrong with having a little knowledge of your own.

Determining What You Want
In order to narrow down what you’re looking for, ask yourself the following questions:

• Do you need all new cabinets? It may be possible that they cabinets you have can be just as appealing with your new kitchen design by giving them a face-lift. This will save a lot in your budget, too.
• What elements of your current kitchen cabinets go on the “dislike” list? Focus on where your current cabinets fall short on form and function.
• Why are you updating the kitchen? It makes a difference whether you’re staying in the home long-term and renovating for you, or are doing it to increase resell value.
• What is the decorative style you want to convey in your kitchen? Believe it or not, the design of the cabinetry will make a difference on whether the correct style is reflected.
• Do you want to go green with your cabinetry? Environmentally friendly options are available, such as bamboo, wheat board and reclaimed wood.
• How much storage do you want? You also need to determine if you need more, less or the same amount of storage as you currently have, because this will affect the design plan for the kitchen renovation done by HA Construction.
  

Saving Money on Your Remodel Budget
When it comes to cabinetry, one sure-fire way to save on your kitchen remodel is by refacing the cabinets instead of replacing them. Changing the stain or painting the cabinetry can supply a whole new look. Take it a step further and put on a new veneer (re-skin) on the cabinet fronts in wood or laminate. Not to mention, replacing the hinges, pulls and knobs will change the look, too. The difference is hundreds of dollars verses thousands (sometimes tens of thousands) of dollars for all new cabinets.

Be Realistic With the Budget You Have
There are two elements to consider when choosing cabinets and cabinetry elements:

• Aesthetic Appeal
• Quality

If you have a mid-size budget, then you won’t be able to spend big bucks on exotic wood and the most expensive hinges. Instead, work to find the look you want and maintain durability at the same time – and determine which is more important to you. At the end of the day, you’ll likely choose quality over appearance, after all, you can get very close to the look you want without sacrificing durability, especially with Andy and HA Construction on your side.

How Cabinets are Manufactured
Determining what type of manufacturing you want on your cabinets will help you calculate your spending for the project. There are three forms of cabinet manufacturing:

• Custom – Custom cabinets are usually the most expensive, as they’re designed any way you want them to be with the specific measurements needed for your kitchen remodel. The possibilities are endless with this made-to-order option.
• Stock – Stock cabinets are the direct opposite of custom cabinets. They are pre-manufactured in predetermined sizes, limiting your selection and options. You usually can choose by sizes in 3 inch increments, with a limited range of stains.
• Semi-Custom – This is like a combination, or the mid-line between custom and stock cabinetry. Basically, these cabinets are pre-manufactured with a few customizable options on the details.

Design Elements and Materials
Framed cabinets have a wood frame along the front of the cabinet (frameless does not). There is a variety of hardware available from hinges to drawer slides. You’ve certainly seen the high quality feature of slam-less cabinet drawers that close on their own.

Additionally, you’ll find that the cabinets can be made from a variety of materials, including:

• Laminate or melamine over particle board
• Metal
• Medium density fiberboard (MDF)
• Plywood
• Solid wood

Additional Considerations
Be sure to ask Andy about the warranty on the cabinets you’re considering, as this will likely effect your decision. Andy will also give you honest feedback on the best options for your budget and desired look. Having this information will help speed up the decision process so you can move on to other elements of your kitchen renovation with HA Construction.