Kitchen Design Trend: Blue Cabinets

Blue cabinets have been making a scene in kitchen designs recently. If you love the look of painted cabinets, it might be time to give blue a try.

Photo: Houzz

For many years white kitchen (and bathroom) cabinets has taken center stage in design trends. They are well known for their clean and classic appeal. White cabinets can help to brighten any space and can even help to make a kitchen look larger. Not only can they make a space appear larger, white is a great cabinet color option since it is so versatile. White cabinetry can complement several design styles seamlessly since it is a neutral color.

For many years, white cabinets dominated the scene. That was until a few years ago when gray became the new "it" color. Gray cabinets, like white cabinets, are neutral and can work well with many designs. Gray especially works for cabinet colors since wood cabinets are an otherwise "warm" material. The color also saw a huge jump in popularity since it works with almost any color scheme. However, if gray is not incorporated correctly it come across as "sterile" and "lifeless."

Fortunately, there is a new cabinet color trend in the design world: blue. Blue is a breath of fresh air compared to the neutral whites and grays. Blue cabinets can go well with practically any design style-from traditional, to farmhouse, to modern. They also add a sense of calm to any space. We predict that part of the reason why blue cabinets are increasing in popularity is because blue is an extremely versatile color. Blue hues range from navy, periwinkle, turquoise, sky blue, robin's egg, and blue-gray.

Photo: Pinterest

To avoid overloading your kitchen with too much color, you can always include the hue in designated areas. For example, you can include a bright blue cabinet for the kitchen island and choose a traditional color for the wall cabinets. A more modern option would be to include the blue color for the lower cabinets and include open shelves in place of the upper cabinets. This helps to lighten up any space and keeps any space from being too overwhelmed by a particular color.

Even though blue cabinets are a relatively new design trend, we hope that they stick around for a while. What do you think about the new color trend?

Why You Should Consider Quartz Countertops For Your Kitchen Renovation

Over the past several years, granite has always taken the lead in kitchen countertop materials. However, there is a newer, more popular, contender: quartz countertops. According to Kitchen and Bath Design News, "quartz is the most popular kitchen countertop material, and trending up. Granite, the second most popular countertop material, is trending down."

Photo: MSI Stone

Unlike granite countertops, which consist of slabs of natural stone, quartz countertops are not entirely made up of quartz. Quartz countertops are manufactured from 95% ground natural quartz with approximately 5% polymer resins; however, these numbers can vary between manufacturers. This is why they are sometimes referred to as "engineered stone countertops."

The appearance of the countertops depends on how finely milled the quartz is. Coarser quartz produces a flecked surface, while finer quartz yields a smooth surface. Until recently, quartz would often try to mimic the sought-after look of granite. These days, many homeowners are choosing the smooth, clean looking quartz countertops. This is particularly true in contemporary kitchens.

The main advantage of quartz over granite is that it is non-porous, which means that it does not require sealing. It is also more durable against scratches and stains, and can be cleaned easily with soap and water. Since it is easy to work with, quartz has even been showing up in bathroom showers and kitchen backsplashes. A great factor about quartz is that it is available in endless color options, with many that wouldn't be naturally available in stone.

Photo: Bob Vila

As an added bonus, quartz is becoming more affordable than it has been in the past. This may be due to its rise in popularity and the rising number of manufacturers that offer it. As for price, quartz countertops will run you about the same as granite.

While quartz countertops have many advantages, there are a couple of disadvantages to this material. One minor drawback of quartz countertops to keep in mind is that it is not very heat resistant. Hot pads and trivets are a must for those who have quartz in their kitchens. Additionally, it is highly recommended to hire a professional when installing quartz countertops. After all, quartz countertops are extremely heavy.

It is easy to see why quartz countertops are becoming more and more popular in kitchen renovations. With its non-porous surface, competitive pricing, and lifelong durability; it is clear why quartz is a main contender for countertops.

Bathroom Tile Trends for 2017

We all know that remodeling your bathroom is a great investment for your home. While bathroom renovations may be pricey, you can see a huge pay off and added value to your home if done correctly. Creating an aesthetically pleasing bathroom is all about choosing a working layout, selecting quality materials and appliances, and combining interesting textures, colors, and shapes throughout the room. A great way to incorporate fun shapes and colors are through your tile selection. While subway tiles are a classic, there are many other options available that will be sure to make a statement in any room. Here are some of the top bathroom tile trends for 2017:

Fish Scale Tiles

Photo: Pinterest

Fish scale tile is definitely causing a scene in the design world. The ocean-inspired tiles can add a calming element to any bathroom. While we may attribute fish scales with cool greens and blues, fish scale tiles are available in endless colors and sizes. If you want to shy away from too much color, fish scale tiles can be paired easily with more traditional and simple designs by choosing neutral tile and grout colors.

Wood-Look Tiles

Photo: Empire Today Blog

While wood look tile may not be a "new" trend, we believe that it is a trend that will continue to climb in popularity in 2017 and beyond. This flooring option is not only popular in bathrooms, it is also becoming more common in kitchens, living areas, bedrooms, and more. They are the perfect option for those who love the look of hardwood floors, but hate the upkeep. We recommend installing wood-look tiles in interesting patterns, such as herringbone or chevron, to create interest.

Geometric Tiles

Photo: Firenza Stone

Geometric tiles can range from angular patterns with sharp lines, to more curved and floral-like patterns. When paired with simple and classic tiles, graphic tiles add a level of excitement to any space. The variety of shapes, colors, and patterns makes this trend suitable for any design style. One of the biggest trends in geometric design right now are hexagonal tiles; however, other shapes such as triangles, stars, and circles are also chic tile choices. They are a bold choice, yet can be incorporated beautifully in small spurts to avoid overwhelming the space.

Penny Tiles

Photo: Decoist

Penny tile has been on the rise (again) in recent years. They originally debuted in the early 1900's due to its durability and ease to clean. Penny tiles are typically offered in small circles, also called penny rounds, as well as square and hex shapes. Since they are small, penny tiles can help to make a small bathroom appear larger. As a bonus, penny tiles are a great bathroom tile option since they are relatively easy to install. While they are typically installed in black and white patterns, brighter colors are becoming more popular.

Are Waterfall Countertops Just a Fad?

While they originated in ultra modern designs, waterfall countertops are rising in popularity in several design styles these days. They give off a sleek, clean, and contemporary appearance. However, are waterfall countertops just the latest trend? Or do we think they will stick around for a few years to come?

Photo: DecorPad

Waterfall countertops can work beautifully on both kitchen islands and on a peninsula. Some homeowners may choose to include waterfall countertops to protect wood countertops and help to hide appliances. They work extremely well in high traffic areas since they are typically easy to clean and are more durable than cabinets; thus, they can withstand constant bumps and dings.

We recommend including waterfall countertops in larger kitchens, or kitchens with an open concept. The extra slab of countertop material may be overwhelming to small, enclosed spaces. Additionally, a dark colored waterfall countertop can make the room feel heavy, which is why many homeowners choose a lighter color-such as a bright white or a warm beige.

When choosing a material for a waterfall countertop, durability is a huge concern. Try to pick a durable material, such as granite or quartz. Choosing between a solid color slab versus one with more speckles and veining is up to you. Keep in mind that waterfall countertops tend to serve as a focal point in the room, so choose a texture that you love and won't be too overwhelming to your space.

Photo: Pinterest

Another factor you should consider about waterfall countertops on kitchen islands is the enclosed seating underneath. Since the "waterfall" section is the same width as the countertop, there will be extra material at the end of the seating area of your island. For those who love to entertain and are looking to include as much seating as possible, a waterfall countertop may not be the best option. Foregoing a waterfall countertop will allow you to squeeze in one or two more seats when there are a lot of guests over.

If you plan on selling your home in the near future, you may not want to include this trend. While some love the look of waterfall countertops, others may not be a huge fan. When remodeling a kitchen for resell, it is best to choose timeless finishes and materials to avoid turning away any potential buyers.

Having a waterfall countertop will help to create a clean, updated look to any kitchen remodel or renovation. While they may be one of the last trends right now, who knows-they may turn out to be a timeless staple in kitchen design. If you love waterfall countertops, add it to your kitchen! Your kitchen should be a place that you love spending time in. When planning a kitchen remodel, try not to get too caught up in what's in and what's out and choose pieces that you love.