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.

Kitchen Remodel Tips to Help You Achieve Your Dream Kitchen

When assessing their home for upgrades, many homeowners hope to remodel their kitchen to create an open and inviting space. As you may have noticed, kitchens are not only used for cooking; kitchens have evolved to be part of the main entertaining space in the home. When planning a kitchen remodel, it is always helpful to look at ideas to help you get an idea of what you want. Here are some kitchen remodel tips:

Custom Kitchen Remodel by Balducci Additions and Remodeling

Planning the Kitchen Layout

Typically, one of the first steps when planning a kitchen remodel is deciding on the kitchen layout. It is important to create enough space between walkways and high-traffic areas. In cooking zones, there should be 42 inches of space for a one-cook configuration and 48 inches for a two-cook configuration. Another important tip when choosing your kitchen layout is to be mindful of the location of your cabinetry, appliances, and how the two interact. You don't want to open a cabinet door to find out that it bangs into an appliance, or another cabinet, and ending up with damaged materials.

Choosing the Appliances

When planning the location of your appliances, try to avoid installing the cooktop in the island. It can be a hazard, especially for homeowners with kids. Additionally, it may be a good idea to have the refrigerator installed near the edge of the main cooking area (such as on the end of a row of cabinets). That way, the cook can easily access ingredients in the refrigerator, while a passer-by can also access the refrigerator for snacks or drinks without disrupting the cook.

Planning for Ample Countertop Space

Account for lots of countertop space. Countertop space is essential for prepping food, storing small appliances, and setting down miscellaneous items. One area of the kitchen that should have countertop space on either side is the cooktop. The landing space around this area is priceless while cooking. Another area that would benefit by having extra countertop space would be the microwave.

Deciding on Cabinetry

In a kitchen, there are many items that need to be stored away, which is why organization is a must-have. We recommend including some cabinet organization. Some good ideas for in-cabinet organization would be a knife drawer, a recycling bin, and racks for pots and pans.

In addition, avoid weighing down the room with an overabundance of cabinetry by mixing up cabinet details. For example, you can replace a regular wall cabinet with a couple of open shelves to show off your prettiest glassware. However, if you still need as much cabinet space as possible, try including some glass panels in your cabinets to make the room appear lighter.

Choosing the Finishing Touches

On a budget? Before you get too discouraged about not being able to include your dream materials or finishes, know that it is possible to include some high-end pieces while staying on a budget. We recommend choosing one or two high-end items, such as tiles for your backsplash or a range-hood that you love. Then, you can use these items as your focal points. Stick to the budget by saving money on your countertops, cabinetry, and other materials.

Kitchens are often considered the heart of the home, and the center for entertaining with family and friends. Before you invest in a complete kitchen remodel, it is important to research what you want beforehand. You don't want to go through an entire remodel to find out that you do not absolutely love your new space. Some important elements to consider when compiling kitchen remodel tips include: layout, cabinetry, countertops, appliances, and finishing touches.

We hope that these kitchen remodel tips helped you in planning your dream kitchen. Feel free to contact Balducci Additions and Remodeling to schedule an appointment.

Contrasting Kitchen Island

Kitchen islands can be a huge benefit for any kitchen. They add extra counter space and storage, and can provide some additional seating. In addition, they can add some extra style to your space through your choice of cabinet color, cabinet style, and overall design choice. Don’t feel as though you need to match your kitchen design to your kitchen island to the “t.” One of the design trends that we saw emerge in 2016, and is expecting to stick around well into 2017, is a contrasting kitchen island.

Contrasting kitchen island in this recent kitchen renovation by Balducci Additions and Remodeling

Contrasting kitchen islands help to keep a kitchen from looking to sterile and repetitive. They add dimension and visual interest to the space. The contrasting kitchen island look can be achieved by contrasting the kitchen cabinet colors with the island, contrasting the kitchen countertop colors with the island, or a contrast of both.

A contrasting kitchen island can be perfect for a kitchen renovation because it can:

1. Add a pop of color to an otherwise neutral kitchen remodel. White kitchens continue to be a huge style trend into 2017. To keep them from looking too sterile, a contrasting kitchen island is perfect since it adds interest, warmth, and vibrancy to an otherwise cold room.
2. Add warmth to the space by incorporating natural wood hues to contrast with painted cabinetry. We love the look of adding in a wood kitchen island to contrast with white cabinetry!
3. Add dimension to an otherwise “static” kitchen renovation by adding in a kitchen island with a completely different style from the rest of the kitchen. For example, don’t be afraid to mix an industrial style island with an otherwise traditional kitchen. The clean lines of the kitchen island will perfectly contrast with the intricate designs of the rest of the cabinetry.

Our company recently completed a farmhouse inspired kitchen renovation that blew us away. The surrounding cabinetry was outfitted in white and was paired with a light beige granite countertop. To add dimension, we included an island with cherry cabinetry. The granite countertops continued into the island to add continuity to the space. Overall, we love the kitchen remodel and hope to complete more kitchen remodeling jobs with contrasting islands.

Contrasting kitchen island in this recent kitchen renovation by Balducci Additions and Remodeling

Need help coming up with some fresh ideas for your kitchen remodel? Please don’t hesitate to contact us. We would love to schedule an appointment to get started on the first phase of your kitchen renovation in the Richmond, Virginia area.

5 Countertop Options You Didn't Think Of

Kitchen remodels can be exciting, yet daunting remodels due to their extensive nature and materials list. There are many material choices to be made, ranging from: flooring, cabinetry, wall color, appliances, and countertops. Today, granite and quartz are both very popular options due to their durability and beautiful aesthetics. However, don’t think that granite and quartz are your only two options for quality countertops. (To learn more about granite and quartz countertops, check out this article.) Don’t be afraid to try something new for your kitchen remodel and step outside of the box! Here are five types of countertops that you might not have considered before:

Custom wine bar installed in place of a small closet

Soapstone

Since soapstone is dense and non-porous, drops and spills can be easily wiped up and you don’t have to worry about staining. Each soapstone slab is entirely unique from the next and provides charming aesthetic. This material is non-porous and will never absorb liquids. Anyone with a soapstone countertop can choose to add mineral oil to the countertop. This creates a darker hue. In comparison, soapstone can be left alone and develop a natural patina over time. An additional bonus is that it is extremely heat resistant, so leaving warm pots and pans on the counter won’t affect the soapstone.

Copper

Copper countertops can be a beautiful option for you space since they add warmth through their rich earthy tones. A benefit of copper is that it is easy to clean and are naturally microbial. Most stains and spills can be easily wiped up and cleaned with soap and water; however, copper can be tarnished and will react to spills. This can be a benefit or a drawback since it will create an “inconsistent” look that some people prefer, while others steer away from.

Zinc

Zinc is similar to stainless steel countertops in that they share the same gray metallic coloring. Zinc is similar to copper in that it develops a patina over time since it reacts with water, fingerprints, spills, and stains. Again, this countertop may not be the right choice for perfectionists who prefer a consistent look and feel. In addition, zinc countertops are non-porous and have anti-bacterial properties that make it a good choice for food preparation.

Mineral Oil Being Applied to Butcher Block. Photo: Wikipedia

Butcher Block

Butcher block countertops are composed of thick strips of maple. oak, cherry, or walnut and are glued together to form a solid surface. Although maple, oak, cherry, and walnut are the more popular choices for countertops, almost any type of wood can be used for butcher block countertops. They also come finished or un-finished, depending on whether or not you intend on using the countertop for a cutting board or for display. Luckily, both sealed and un-sealed butcher block countertops can be refinished to reveal virtually good-as-new countertops for a small cost.

Concrete

Concrete is an extremely durable material and can withstand wear and tear without chipping or scratching. It can also be formed into any shape imaginable since it is poured. A bonus of concrete countertops is that they are also heat resistant, so setting your hot pots and pans on the counter won’t lead to warping. They can also be easily customized since they can be made in an endless possibility of colors. However, concrete countertops need to be sealed in order to protect it from heat, water, and stains.

Kitchen countertops can will affect the feel in any space. When choosing countertops for a kitchen remodel, it is important to consider style, durability, and costs when assessing what is right for your home. Kitchen countertops can take up a large portion of your budget when doing a kitchen remodel, but it can also add value to your home. Call Balducci Additions and Remodeling today for any further questions on kitchen countertops, along with any other questions regarding kitchen remodeling. We have over 30 years of experience and we would love to assist you and creating your dream kitchen. Give us a call at 804-730-0982.

Why You Need a Kitchen Island

Kitchens are the heart of the home. It is where you family comes to gather around and enjoy each others’ company. However, some kitchens do not have space for entertaining, or are not efficient for the homeowners. Kitchen remodels are one of the most popular remodeling projects today. Whether your building a new home, or considering a kitchen remodel, take note of these added benefits of a kitchen island.

Photo: Skegg Kitchen

Extra counter space. In many homes, kitchens are high traffic areas with a lot of hustle and bustle before meal time. It can be a huge benefit to have a kitchen island in your home since it can provide you with much-needed extra counter space.

Adds storage. Many homeowners’ main complaint about their kitchen is its lack of storage space. A kitchen island is a great solution to add a little extra storage. Kitchen islands come in almost endless options so picking out a size that is suitable for your family can be an easy decision to make.

Improves kitchen layout. A kitchen island can improve the room’s layout by including an appliance such as a sink or stove. This can help to create the infamous “kitchen work triangle” in kitchens who do not currently have an effective layout. However, this can only be added if it is a permanent island since it requires the addition of plumbing and electricity.

Allows for flexibility. On the other hand, some kitchen islands can be moved around to better serve your needs and allow flexibility in the kitchen layout. In addition, moveable kitchen islands can be taken with you to any future homes.

Provide additional seating. A kitchen island is the perfect spot for a informal dining area, homework station, or just another place for guests to sit. Kitchen islands can be a perfect addition for your family to hang out at or to help with the cooking and cleaning.

Photo: Flickr

What do you think? What is your favorite benefit of having a kitchen island in your home?

Kitchen Renovation: Granite or Quartz?

Kitchens are the heart of the home, it is where you prepare your meals and where family comes to gather together. A kitchen remodel is a large investment; however, it can also have the most bang for your buck. Thus, kitchen remodels are becoming increasingly popular. According to Home Advisor, your kitchen remodeling budget will be broken down by:

• Design fees: 4%
• Installation: 17%
• Appliances and ventilation: 14%
• Cabinetry and hardware: 29%
• Countertops: 10%
• Lighting: 5%
• Flooring: 7%
• Doors and windows: 4%
• Walls and ceilings: 5%
• Faucets and plumbing: 4%
• Other: 1%

Even though countertops only account for an average of 10% of your budget, choosing the right countertops can either make or break your kitchen remodel. The top two countertop materials on the market right now are granite and quartz. However, what are the pros and cons of each of these options?

Photo: Rise Above Remodeling

Appearance

Granite offers a natural stone aesthetic with many variations in the colors and markings. Some may prefer to have a natural look to their countertops, while others are turned off by the variations.

Quartz offers a more consistent look and comes in a variety of colors from neutrals to striking colors of blues, greens, oranges, and so on.

Granite Countertops in a traditional kitchen. Photo: Pinterest

Cost

In real estate, granite is often seen as a luxury item. It typically costs around $50-$100 per square foot. However, top-of-the-line granite can cost as much as $225 per square foot.

Surprisingly, quartz is often the more costly choice for countertops. This option can cost as much as $100-$185 per square foot.

White quartz countertop with white cabinets. Photo: Houzz

Maintenance

One of the biggest advantages of granite is its incredible heat resistance; however, it also comes with a major drawback. Granite is naturally porous, which makes is prone to stains and scratches. Depending on the type of granite and how often it is used; granite may be needed to be sealed every 1-3 years. The typical cost to have it sealed can range from $0.68 to $1.49 per square foot. Over time, this expense can add up.

On the other hand, quartz is non-porous and doesn’t require annual sealing like granite. Quartz is hygienic and is durable against scratches and stains. However, it is important to note that quartz may be burned easily from hot pots and develop chips in the material. To repair chipping, a professional service is required.

Comparison of Granite vs. Quartz Countertops from Forbes.com

Return on Investment

Given the recent scare of radon in granite, some homeowners may be weary of moving into a home with granite countertops. However, Forbes.com says, “granites contain parts per billion of radium…it is determined that there is a minimal and acceptable amount of radon in average granite building materials.” Considering the radiation we experience from day-to-day life, including flying and walking around the city; the radium levels in granite should not be of very high concern. Fortunately, many of those in the market for a new home see granite as a bonus and can add as much as 75% return on investment.

Quartz comes in a close second to granite, as far as kitchen countertops go, with an average of 60% return on investment. This could be because of their lack of natural looking pigments and colors. Although quartz can come in almost any color, a neutral colored countertop would yield a much higher return than a brightly colored countertop.

Have questions about the best countertops for your kitchen remodel? Feel free to call us at 804-730-0982.