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Steps Towards Renovating Your Kitchen

Need a change? Thinking of renovating? Tired of your existing kitchen? You’re not alone!

Spring brings with it a time of renewal, and in Toronto and the GTA, homes are buzzing with new changes and improvements. So, in case you’re thinking of doing the same, we’ve outlined some important points to help get you started with the planning process.

When it comes to renovations, kitchens tend to be one of the most costly, and requires a fair amount of planning. For that reason, doing your research, a detailed plan, and setting a realistic budget are all key factors in achieving the kitchen renovation that you’ve been dreaming of!

Do your research. Get out there. Visit stores and showrooms. Search online and check websites. Get an idea of the products and services available; while getting an understanding of the price ranges for the various styles, materials and features in the market.

Start planning.  Discover what works for you and your home. There’s an endless array of designs, styles, and outstanding kitchens out there. However, if they’re not in sync with your home’s existing space and decor, then the new kitchen will not fit gracefully with it’s surroundings. It is best to get an idea of the colours and styles that you’d like to see in your home and choose one or two options that you think would work best in your space.

Get accurate measurements! Often showrooms and companies will ask you to bring in measurements when designing your kitchen and getting pricing. An inch can make a big difference and can alter the overall look of your kitchen and whole space in general.

Set a realistic budget. Take everything into consideration. People are often deterred from doing renovations or starting large projects because they’re afraid that they will go over budget and spend more than they anticipated (which is a valid fear, and you are not alone). That’s why doing your research before hand is so crucial!

We suggest setting a budget range, rather than a set amount. That way, you can use the lower end of the range as your target – but if you reach the higher end of your budget range by the end of the project, you’re still technically within your budget, and this goes a long way in keeping your peace of mind. You can also, save money with a look alike. Don’t be afraid of alternatives – there are numerous options in today’s market for cabinet doors, countertops, configurations and hardware. For example, many wooden doors come in an MDF/Thermofoil option, and even offer glazes which make the door look like wood. You can achieve the same look while keeping costs a little lower.

Take into consideration labour prices (such as installations, contractors, etc.) when planning your budget range. Hiring a reputable contractor can help reduce undesirable complications, and they may even have useful tips to save you time and money throughout your renovation.

Leave with this. Research, plan, and budget.

  • Make sure everything is set and planned before moving all of your items out of the space.  It’s uncomfortable living in a limbo with unfinished projects around your home.
  • Cheaper doesn’t always mean better. You get what you pay for. That’s why it is important to do your research and get an understanding of the price ranges of what you are looking for. Be informed.
  • Friends and family will always give constructive and destructive suggestions. Consult professionals in each area before making a decision, (for example regarding cabinets, flooring, or contractor projects).
  • Opt for functionality and maximize kitchen storage when planning your kitchen. It will pay off in the long run.

“Marry your kitchen style to the rest of your home.” Your kitchen is a part of your home that is lived in and used often, yet it is sometimes overlooked. Create a space that you love to spend time in!

Granite, Quartz or Marble?

With the advent of quartz countertops in kitchen and bath applications, you’re faced with yet another decision. Granite, quartz or Marble? Each of these solid surfaces has it’s pros and cons in different applications.

First, lets look at the visible differences. Granite is usually made up of many different colours, and tends to have un-even distribution of these colours and patterns, as it is naturally formed. In comparison, marble is usually a solid colour with veins of a different colour throughout the stone. Quartz is available in a wide variety of colours, and always has a very even pattern because it is in a sense, man-made.

Granite

Granite is extracted from quarries in the earth and later cut into the slabs that make their way into your kitchen as countertops. Once extracted, the granite slab is cut to the desired thickness, buffed and shined, and given an edge profile. The pattern on one slab of granite to the next can vary greatly, which brings a natural and lively look to a kitchen. Be advised that in some cases, even a granite sample in a kitchen showroom can be quite different than the slab that is used.

Granite is a great choice for high traffic areas like the kitchen. Although granite is porous, a sealant can prevent it from absorbing spilled liquids. Experts suggest sealing these countertops every 3-5 years for longevity. Granite is extremely durable, however one should always be careful because it can still be chipped and stained.

Quartz

Quartz is also made of natural stone, however it is blended with resin. The process to produce quartz allows manufacturers to create even patterns. Quartz is available in a variety of colours and textures. These countertops have become very popular in the recent years because people are drawn to the colours and even pattern distribution, as well as the low maintenance involved. Did you know you can have a quartz countertop that looks just like  Carrerra Marble, without the problems discussed below?

Quartz has virtually no maintenance (i.e. sealing every few years). It is more stain-resistant than granite, however spills should be wiped promptly to prevent stains. Harsh cleaning solutions should not be used on quartz. With that said, quartz has one drawback – in some cases it can discolour over time from UV exposure. In most cases this is never noticeable, unless only a portion of the counter sees sunlight.

Marble

This stone tends to be light in colour, and have veining patterns. Marble has less variety in terms of colour choices than both Granite and Quartz. Marble slabs are also smaller than both quartz and granite, because it is not as durable. So keep in mind, there will be more seams in the installation.

People are drawn to the inherent elegance of this natural stone. Light and airy colours bring a mediterranean look to your space. Marble is a softer and more porous stone than granite, making it easier to scratch and stain. With it’s clean and timeless look, it is unfortunate that marble is (usually) kept out of the kitchen, and used in low-traffic areas like the bathroom. However, there is no doubt that it brings an elegance and brightness to bathrooms that other materials can not.

 

Take-away

There are certainly different viewpoints on which stone is your best choice, but this is what we have learned through experience, application and customer feedback. A factor that we did not talk about is cost, because this varies greatly from one fabricator to the next, and it would be inaccurate to rank the stones in order of price. Choosing the right stone is dependant on a lot of factors, including your taste, budget and the kind of use and abuse the stone may encounter in your home.

Picking a Cabinet Door Style

When it comes to a kitchen or bathroom design, a great starting point is your door selection. With so many styles, colors and materials available it can be hard to decide which door style fits your taste and budget. Cabinet doors are the most important element of your kitchen, and selecting the right one begins with knowing the difference in door styles, the look they will create, and what you should expect to pay. Here is a simple breakdown to help you  decide which style is right for you and your budget.

The Shaker Door

The Shaker door style stands as the most popular door today. It features a simple framed border around the door, and can be made of solid wood or thermofoil. The Shaker door has gained popularity for a few reasons, primarily because of its versatility. Whether you’re looking for a modern look or a classical one, a shaker door in the right color will work very well.

The shaker door varies in price based on the material used. Shaker doors are available in a 5-piece solid oak or maple, or MDF wrapped in thermofoil, with the latter being less expensive.

Flat Door

The flat cabinet door style is a simple door that creates a minilalist look because of it’s lack of details. Flat doors are available in melamine, thermofoil and solid wood. This door style is a perfect choice for modern interiors, especially those looking for invigorating colours and high-gloss lacquers that aren’t available in the natural wood selection.

Flat doors are typically the most budget friendly, and when they’re paired with the right counter top and accessories they can be one of the most chic.

 

Classical Style

This door style is timeless and has lasted for generations, and presumably will continue to do so. Classical style cabinet doors are usually made of solid wood, which explains the higher price tag. Although recently, thermofoil alternatives have been introduced to the market to create the illusion of a detailed solid wood door at a slightly lower cost. For an elegant classical kitchen, this door style is accented with moldings and furniture-style details throughout the space.

 

Vintage Style

Vintage doesn’t always have to mean old – you can create an updated vintage look with simple door styles, the right door pulls and glass accents.

Similar to classical style cabinet doors, the vintage style usually boasts solid doors but with less intricate details. A common approach to bringing this look to life is adding exposed hinges and bun-feet around base cabinets.

These doors fall in a similar price point as classical doors, however they can cost less depending on the details and color selection.

Welcome to Salerno Kitchens!

Welcome to our kitchen and bath blog!

We’re glad you could make it.

Who Are We?

Family owned and operated, we are the Yazdani’s and it’s a pleasure to meet you!

You can get to know us better here – About Us

Why Are We Here?

And more importantly, why should you stay here?

This blog will provide you, the reader, with insight about the kitchen and bath industry. If you’re planning to remodel your kitchen or bathroom, you’re in the right place. Even if you’re gathering ideas or looking to further your knowledge on what to look for, this blog will provide an informative starting point for your journey.

What Will We Be Blogging About?

You can expect posts about the newest trends and innovations, along with tips on how to go about a kitchen or bathroom makeover. We’ll talk about everything from cabinets and counter tops to finishes and accessories. Even the kitchen sink! Our own products, services and past projects are all organized throughout the rest of the website for your convenience – this blog is focused on you!

Thanks for stopping by,

You are welcome to get in touch with us by email, or in person – Contact Us

We are always open to your questions and feedback and look forward to blogging the most useful tips and advice for you.

OUR SHOWROOM IS OPEN, AND WE ARE TAKING ALL COVID-19 PRECAUTIONS, FOR YOUR SAFETY AND OURS

Sonata Kitchens Inc.

170 West Beaver Creek Road
Unit #2
Richmond Hill, ON L4B 1L6
Canada

Phone: (905) 597-3133
Fax: (905) 597-7688
info@sonatakitchens.com

Hours of Operation

Mon-Fri: 10:00am-5:30pm

Sat: 10:00am-4:00pm

Sun: Closed

  

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