Unlocking new design possibilities with laminate cabinetry

Unlocking new design possibilities with laminate cabinetry
Why many kitchen designers and homeowners are choosing laminate cabinetry over traditional materials to create modern luxury spaces.

“Is laminate cabinetry really better for my kitchen than solid wood?”
Short answer – yes. Especially if you, like most homeowners in the US today, want to create contemporary-style spaces with a sleek and elegant look and feel. More and more of our clients are choosing laminate cabinetry for a number of reasons and are thrilled with the results and experience. However, many of them have had their doubts in the beginning, which they discussed with us during our consultation process. In this blog, we’re going to address some of those misconceptions and show you why laminate cabinetry can be a great choice for your new kitchen. 

TOP 3 MISCONCEPTIONS ABOUT LAMINATE CABINETRY

While discussing laminate kitchen cabinetry with us, here are some concerns clients bring up:

Misconception #1: They’re cheaper than solid wood, so they must be poor quality

One reason laminate cabinetry is cheaper than hardwood is that it uses engineered materials such as MDF for the core, which can bring the costs down. But this isn’t a compromise on quality – MDF has some advantages over solid wood. For example, it doesn’t warp the way wood does when it comes into contact with moisture. Then, there is the surface, which can be made from high-quality materials with a luxe finish. We can assure you, no one thinks “budget” when they see some of the exquisite laminate cabinetry made by world-class manufacturers such as nobilia. 

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EASYTOUCH 963, Rust red ultra matt by nobilia

Misconception #2: They don’t look as beautiful as hardwood cabinetry

While this is a matter of taste and preference, we believe laminate cabinetry’s limitless range of options almost guarantees you’ll find exactly what you’re looking for to create your perfect kitchen. You can even find laminates that give you the color uniformity, and ease of maintenance of natural hardwood, such as Textured Laminate, pictured here to the right. They offer so many colors and finishes to explore that anything you envision for your kitchen can be brought to life with high-quality laminate cabinetry! 

Misconception #3: They won’t last as long as hardwood cabinetry

Unlike natural wood cabinetry, laminate cabinetry has innovation on its side. Research and the testing of new materials are making it possible to create everything from flawless high-gloss to perfectly-textured finishes that are scratch-resistant and easy to maintain. Because of this, your laminate cabinetry can look brand new for years. 

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SPEED 288, Black concrete reproduction by nobilia

Laminate cabinetry will give you plenty of space for creativity and expression, and that’s why our designers are always happy to take our clients through all the options available to them. Set up a consultation to learn more about how your kitchen would benefit from laminate cabinetry.

GET TO KNOW LAMINATE CABINETRY THROUGH THESE TOP MANUFACTURERS

As the US market continues to move from traditional or transitional to contemporary, laminate cabinetry is gaining popularity fast. People are recognizing that they offer great value, being more affordable and easier to maintain. From a design point of view, clean lines are incredibly appealing today as well. These are some benefits that come up in our discussions with clients as we take them through our cabinetry lines – nobilia, Adelphi, Plain & Fancy, and Durasupreme. We work with these manufacturers because they are quality-focused, allowing us to deliver beautiful cabinetry that’s designed to last. Some of these manufacturers source from Alvic, Fenix, and Northern Contours who ensure the highest quality. Keep reading to learn about their products and see just how many options laminate cabinetry can offer you!

ALVIC

Since 1965, Alvic has specialized in fabricating furniture components with the European look, which is in high-demand in North America now. High-gloss European boards in particular are making waves in kitchen design, so much so that Alvic has opened a manufacturing plant in the US to meet that demand. Here’s a look at their products: 

  1. Luxe

Alvic’s Luxe collection has an attractive high gloss finish decorative panel that also offers excellent physical and mechanical performance. Their lacquered surface components have the highest scratch resistance in the industry and can create a clean, spotless mirror effect.

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  1. Luxe PLUS

Luxe PLUS adds a new dimension to high-gloss cabinet components. It offers a higher level of brightness, perfection in reflected images, exceptional stability, even in environments of extreme humidity and temperature, and eco-friendliness, as well as resistance to scratching, cracking, abrasion, and impact.

  1. Syncron

Syncron Structured Panel Lines showcase textured panels with realistic decorative designs that customers love. Through their exclusive manufacturing process, Alvic controls every aspect of thermofused melamine board production to produce a complete match between texture and design.

  1. Zenit 

Zenit offers Alvic’s toughest matte design boards. In contrast to the Luxe lacquered panels, Zenit offers a deep, super matte finished panel with a silky soft feel and excellent resistance to abrasion. These boards can be used to manufacture all kinds of furniture as well as decorative products.

FENIX NTM

An innovative, extremely matte material, Fenix NTM is the next step forward in surface technology. Its features include:

  • Anti-fingerprint
  • Thermal healing of micro scratches
  • Soft touch
  • Enhanced anti-bacterial properties
  • Resistance to dry heat
  • High resistance to acid solvents and household agents

NORTHERN CONTOURS 

Northern Contours believes in the importance of providing unique, design-

driven products to the industry. They offer a variety of cabinet doors and components

to fit design styles, from contemporary and modern to transitional or traditional. Their versatile products are perfect for creating custom looks. 

Northern Contours Laminates

Matte2

This is a more economical alternative to Nothern Contours’ SmartMatte 3DL (described further down). It is matte lacquered thermally fused laminate (TFL) on an engineered core. Its features include: 

  • Anti-fingerprint
  • Heals micro-scratches with heat of friction (use Magic Eraser)
  • Silky, soft-touch matte finish

Laminate specifications

  1. Textured TFL specifications
    Textured thermally fused laminate (TFL) is made by fusing a resin-impregnated sheet directly to a substrate. Heat and pressure activate the resin in the saturated TFL sheet, creating a cross-linked bond with the engineered core. The resulting embossed texture adds a natural look to your designs. Components will have the same textured TFL on face and back.

  1. Acrylic and wired specifications
    High gloss Acrylic components feature an ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) colored layer, which is permanently fused with a clear, ultra-high gloss acrylic top layer. ABS is an ecologically responsible, impact resistant, mechanically and thermally resilient, high quality thermoplastic. High gloss Wired 2DL is PVC material for flat lamination only. Available with standard TFL backer or double-sided Acrylic.

  1. Board specifications
    The “board” refers to the core of the door. The laminate is wrapped around this.
    Components are made with a high quality, CARB Phase 2 ATCM 93120 compliant, 3/4″ engineered core. An engineered core provides a stable, consistent substrate, virtually eliminating warping. LEVEL components have the option of a color-coordinated TFL back or matching material on the face and back.

Northern Contours SmartMatte 3DL

 

Northen Contours describes SmartMattes as “the NEXT generation of 3D Laminates”. They have a soft, silky matte touch, and combine fashion and function to create cabinet components with amazing engineered features such as: 

  • Healing of micro-scratches and anti-fingerprint properties
  • Anti-fingerprint
  • Self-healing with heat of friction (use Magic Eraser)

  • Design Inspiration: Try a contemporary take on a shaker door. Pictured below (L to R) are the Shaker, Shaker Shallow, and Shaker Slim doors by Northern Contours.

 

In the video below, Bath Plus Kitchen’s Eric Shipe explains why the ‘Slim Shaker’ may be the cabinet door style for you if you’re looking for something more modern: 


Board specifications

Components are made with a high quality, double refined, CARB Phase 2 ATCM 93120 compliant, 3/4″ engineered core. An engineered core provides a stable, consistent substrate. Component backs are thermally fused laminate (TFL) and come in a variety of color or woodgrain options. 3/4″ Ultra Low Emitting Formaldehyde (ULEF) core with a White TFL back option is available on select door styles by request. 3DL Surfaces are produced using 1″ engineered core.

Northern Contours Veneers

Veneers offer a slice of real wood. This means that each veneer has unique characteristics and variations specific to the species. Variations in grain and color are inherent in the veneer, because of the natural characteristics of wood. Northern Contours uses veneer grades based on standard HPVA specifications.

Board specifications
Components are made with a high quality, CARB Phase 2 ATCM 93120 compliant, 3/4″ engineered core. An engineered core provides a stable, consistent substrate, virtually eliminating warping. Ultra Low Emitting Formaldehyde (ULEF) options available by special request. Northern Contours reserves the right to use a particleboard core of equal density in certain situations.

THOUGHTS ON SUSTAINABILITY

  • If you like the idea of real wood in the form of veneers, reconstituted wood veneer is a more sustainable variation of this. It is an engineered product that gives you superior color and grain consistency while also offering an environmentally responsible alternative to endangered or extremely rare wood species. For example Plain & Fancy offers stunning Reconstituted Wenge and Reconstituted Fumed Oak that would be perfect for a more organic look. 
  • Another option to consider for sustainability is Cabinets, with PET doors. They describe it as giving plastic a “new home”. Here, discarded plastic water bottles become a high-performance PET Film. What’s great is that each door is made from approximately 25 recycled water bottles. 

While there’s no denying the timeless beauty of solid wood cabinetry, the various finishes, door styles, and sustainability advantages made possible by laminate cabinetry are certainly worth considering when you’re ready to create your dream kitchen. It’s a whole world of options to explore, and we’d be happy to guide you through it! Ask us about our services to get started. 

Kitchen cabinetry costs: Design choices that impact them

Kitchen cabinetry costs surprise many first-time remodelers. It can be very expensive and will take up a significant percentage of your kitchen remodel costs. The good news is, if you plan well, you can find the perfect cabinetry for your budget. Knowing your options will help you make better choices that fit your priorities. To help you find the most suitable aspects to focus your expenditure on, we’ve put together the different choices you will need to make while selecting your cabinetry.

1. Installing new cabinetry vs. refacing existing cabinetry

Cabinetry has one of the biggest parts to play in creating the look of your kitchen. Some homeowners opt to simply reface their cabinets. This entails steps such as covering cabinet boxes and sides, adding new cabinet fixtures, and installing new drawer fronts. Refacing costs less than getting brand-new cabinetry.

Still, most kitchen remodels involve a change of cabinetry because homeowners want to update the kitchen’s aesthetic and improve functionality with new features and storage ideas. This decision will mean costs for removal, new cabinetry, and installation. Unless you are quite skilled, get a professional to do this for you, or you could damage your walls. For safety reasons, cabinet installation is best left to qualified professionals as well. This can be around 40-50% of the kitchen cabinetry costs. Full-service remodel firms such as Bath+Kitchen will take care of the entire process for you, from design to installation.

2. Custom or semi-custom vs. stock cabinetry

Custom cabinetry tends to be the most desirable choice for many reasons, closely followed by semi-custom. Stock cabinets work well for smaller budgets, but you are likely to find a limited selection of materials and styles there. That’s why our clients prefer the custom and semi-custom options we offer via top-rated manufacturers that prioritize quality and variety, such as Bellmont, Dura Supreme, and Plain & Fancy.

3. Natural wood vs. engineered materials

You can expect engineered materials such as MDF and particleboard to cost less than solid wood. There are some excellent MDF doors out there for you to choose from that are high-quality and beautifully-designed, such as Bellmont’s shaker-style door:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a8I93nBFeC0

These often look new for longer than some solid wood doors do.

If you love the classic look of solid wood, consider factors such as grain, color, and construction. Also, you’ll find that each wood species comes with its own price. Oak and Hickory can be more affordable than Maple or Cherry. Here are some popular choices:

  • Red Oak
  • White oak
  • Hard maple
  • Hickory
  • Cherry
  • Birch
  • Ash
  • Pine

4. Traditional vs. Contemporary door styles

There are different basic kitchen styles you can opt for such as traditional, transitional, contemporary, and modern. For traditional and transitional kitchens, raised panels express the desired aesthetic well. These kitchens favor detail so cleaner styles wouldn’t have the right impact. These more ornate or decorative door styles will cost more than slab doors, which are suited to contemporary and modern kitchens.

Other styles that can increase your kitchen cabinetry costs are mullion frame doors and open frame doors, which require glass inserts. Some clients opt to make these the predominant door style in their kitchen. A more budget-friendly option is to use a few of them as accents while using solid panels for the most part. Choices like these will shape your kitchen cabinetry costs.

5. Glaze vs. laminate

Cabinet finishes vary considerably in terms of cost. Glazed doors can offer a beautiful vintage look but can be much more expensive than a laminate. That said, there are a wide variety of laminates to choose from today, ranging in quality and price. Explore Bellmont’s door finish gallery to get a sense of how many options there are and what kitchen aesthetic they’re best-suited to.

Dura Supreme, another cabinet manufacturer we work with, breaks their door finishes into three main categories – contemporary, painted, and stained. We also work with Plain & Fancy, who let you customize your color (try out their Custom Color Picker and save your favorites!) in addition to offering an exquisite selection of door styles and finishes.

With these well-reputed manufacturers, you can rest assured that anything you select will be high-quality and look beautiful in your home.

6. Drawer base vs. standard base

Drawer base cabinets are more expensive than standard base cabinets. By designing strategically, you can create a combination of drawers and shelves that work for you, like in the kitchen below:

The red arrow points to a standard base cabinet with 1 drawer and 2 drawers. The blue arrow points to a 3-drawer base cabinet. You can also get 2 drawer and 4 drawer base cabinets. How you design this will impact your kitchen cabinetry costs.

Then, the drawers themselves come in a range of designs, all priced differently.
Soft-close, dovetail drawers are the starting point for all of our kitchen cabinetry. They have solid ⅝” thick sides with a ¼” plywood bottom and 75-pound load capacity. Drawer sides and bottom are protected with a clear UV cured-coating.

Upgrade options include:

  • Walnut drawers with additional hand sanding. This gives you tight, flush joints and two coats of clear catalyzed conversion varnish for durability.

Walnut drawers and accessories as seen here
  • Alder drawers with additional hand sanding. Similar to the walnut drawers described above, this gives you tight, flush joints & two coats of clear catalyzed conversion varnish for durability
  • LEGRABOX drawers by Blum. Key features:
    • Slim 1/2” thick drawer sides constructed with a powder-coated steel finish in a mid-tone grey.
    • A higher load capacity – 88 pounds standard and 150 pounds for 42 to 48” wide drawers.
    • The soft close guides feature progressive runners, providing fluid-like running of the full extension action.
    • Unlike standard wood drawers, their drawer faces are attached directly to the LEGRABOX drawer sides with a concealed mechanized coupling bracket. This gives you an additional ⅝” of storage.
    • The Ambia-line of accessories is designed specifically for LEGRABOX drawers.

7. Framed vs. Frameless

Framed cabinets work well with more traditional kitchens and can cost around $500-1000 less than frameless cabinetry. If you want a sleek aesthetic that’s similar to a lot of contemporary European styles, frameless is the way to go. Not sure what the difference is? Bath+Kitchen’s Eric Shipe explains it in this video:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7-TvjR84zhc

8. Made in the USA vs. cheaper imports

Considering several crucial factors such as quality, design, aesthetic, safety, longevity, and ecological impact, we highly recommend choosing cabinetry manufactured here in the US. There are many cheap alternatives available today that can even be ordered online, but they come with their own price. Many of them are low quality and won’t last. In addition, there are potential health and safety risks. Their negative impact on the environment is an important consideration as well. At Bath+Kitchen, we work exclusively with top-rated US cabinet manufacturers to ensure you always get quality cabinetry that is safe for your home. We take the time to study quality carefully and are transparent with our clients about every detail of the cabinetry they choose.

Other factors – considering your space

In addition to your preferences, it’s essential to evaluate your specific space and note any unique features as well as constraints that need to be factored into the design. Some of the options below could work well for your kitchen, giving you the kind of look and experience you want. Again, what you choose will shape the total cost of your cabinetry.

  • Taller wall cabinets

30” high wall cabinets with a soffit (a structure used to fill the space between your cabinets and the ceiling or hide wiring) above will be more affordable than a 36” or 42” high wall cabinets with fascia and crown molding. If an existing soffit needs to be removed, there will be additional labor costs.

Example with soffits and 30” high cabinets, Bath+Kitchen remodel in Washington, DC
Example with fascia and crown molding, Bath+Kitchen remodel in Alexandria, VA.
  • Stacked wall cabinets

If you have 9’+ ceilings, choosing stacked cabinetry can look impressive and elegant. However, they can add thousands to the cost of your project by increasing your kitchen cabinetry costs. Here’s are some stacked cabinets we’ve done for clients in

Logan Circle:

Here are some 9’ ceilings without stacked cabinets from some of our remodels (Washington, DC, Del Ray, and Vienna, VA).

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3f2Znp385H0&feature=emb_title&ab_channel=BathPlusKitchen
  • Wall cabinets with glass doors and/or mullions.

Here’s what they look like in a contemporary kitchen we remodeled in Arlington, VA:

Tip: When choosing wall lift up cabinets, consider ceiling height as the doors will require additional space to open up fully.

There are different types to choose from as well, illustrated below:

  • Wall tilt up doors
  • Wall Lift up door, about 33% more than tilt up doors, allows for an easier to reach handle
  • Wall lift over the top about 41% more than tile up doors
  • Wall bi-fold tile up doors
  • Wall tilt up door bottom

About accessories

From basic accessories that keep your budget in check to elaborate pieces that enhance the look (and cost) of your cabinetry, there are so many options to choose from. You could find exactly what you’re looking for at Kessebohmer – premium German manufactured accessories, Rev-A-Shelf, or the Ambia-line of accessories designed specifically for LEGRABOX drawers. If your budget can accommodate it, these additional features can enhance your cabinetry experience:

  • Tip-On push to open drawers, a mechanical drawer system that doesn’t require electrical.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bGRkZT22qpA

Accessory inspiration from the Bath+Kitchen store.
From reasonably-priced to expensive, there are many interesting options to explore. Here are a few:

  1. Hopewell Bar Pull 15 Inch (c-c) Ash Gray

2. Nouveau Bamboo Door Pull Back-to-Back 18 Inch (c-c) Brushed Satin Nickel

3. Cabinet Latch 2 Inch Antique Copper

4. Cobblestone Pull 3 3/4 Inch (c-c) Coal Black

5. Aspen Flat Sided Pull 4 Inch (c-c) Silicon Bronze Light

Getting ready to design and order new cabinetry? Here are 5 of HGTV’s cabinetry trends for 2021 to help you get started:

  1. Side-by-side color combo cabinets (as opposed to up and down).

2. Glass door cabinets

3. Natural wood

4. Luxe pulls and mix-and-match hardware (eg: knobs and handle pulls)

5. Under-cabinetry lighting

When you plan your budget for your kitchen remodel, we suggest making high-quality cabinetry a top priority. Kitchen cabinetry costs may feel high, but it’s important to look at the big picture – your cabinets have the power to shape the look and feel of your kitchen while also improving resale value. It’s an investment and, several years of experience and many happy clients later, we can help you plan it to perfection!

Key references:

Care and maintenance tips for your new kitchen or bathroom

Care and maintenance tips for your new kitchen or bathroom

After a remodel, we like to share some important care and maintenance tips with our clients to help them look after their space well. Designing and building a new kitchen or bathroom that caters to your unique preferences and requirements takes a tremendous amount of planning, decision-making, and patience. When the project is complete and the space all cleaned up, you finally get to see what you and your remodel team were working towards. It’s hard to imagine your kitchen or bathroom looking better than it does at that point, with its gleaming countertops, spotless cabinet doors, shiny fittings, and sparkling clean appliances. After all, life – with its spills and messes – is bound to happen.

However, the pristine finish of your freshly-remodeled kitchen or bathroom can last a very long time with the proper care and maintenance. As a full-service design-remodel firm, we work closely with our clients to create spaces they will love for years. Through our comprehensive design process, we help select all the components of their dream kitchen or bathroom, so we know how important each one is to them. That’s why we ensure our clients have the best care and maintenance tips for every aspect of their new space.

CABINETS

Cabinets vary tremendously in quality. In addition to the doors and drawer fronts, the quality of your cabinetry is determined by construction, including frames, drawer glides, and hinges. How well-made these components are will determine how long your cabinets will stay in perfect condition. Because we believe that cabinetry sets the tone for the entire kitchen, we offer our clients high-quality options from top-rated manufacturers in the US. These are designed to last and can look brand new for years with the right care, which means knowing how to maintain and treat them. Cleaning and making adjustments are two key parts of that:

1. Cleaning your cabinets

One of the best care and maintenance tips we can give you for your cabinets is this: question the product you’re considering using. Many products marketed specifically for cleaning cabinets can actually do more harm than good, as Plain & Fancy Custom Cabinetry explains in the video below. Watch it to see a demonstration of how to clean your cabinets the right way, without harmful products or water damage.

2. Adjusting your cabinet doors and drawers with ease

If you notice that any of your cabinet doors and drawers aren’t operating smoothly, you can adjust them quite easily with the correct method. Be sure to find out what works for the specific type of door and adjustment you are making before you start.

Dura Supreme, one of the manufacturers we work with, offers this series of hinge adjustment tips for different cabinet doors. Watch to learn how to access the adjustment screws and shift your cabinet doors and drawers as required:

Inset cabinet door with concealed hinges

Full overlay cabinet door

Frameless cabinet door

Lift door

Stay lift door

Drawer adjustment

https://youtube.com/watch?v=cCiZNlWctx4

Remove and re-install drawer or roll out

NATURAL STONE

Natural stone countertops

Sealing your natural stone countertops every 6 months is recommended. However, you may need to do this sooner. A care and maintenance tip that will serve you well is this: a good way to tell if it’s time to seal your countertops is if you notice that any water on the surfaces has started taking longer to dry. Eventually, over time, the stone will absorb the sealer and you won’t have to seal anymore, but that takes years.

Products such as this natural stone cleaner and sealer can help you keep your countertops in great shape. They are designed to work on natural stones such as granite, marble, travertine, and limestone, and will protect them against commonly spilled substances including oil, coffee, wine, and other food items. Take a look at this sealer guide by Black Diamond Stoneworks to learn how different products can work on your countertop.

For more countertop care and maintenance tips, take a look at this video by Marble.Com:

Natural stone tile and grout

Natural stone tiles, being very porous, can stain easily. That’s why it’s essential to ensure they are properly sealed. It’s also why they require extra caution when it comes to grouting. Ceramic tiles, for example, don’t require too much caution while grouting because the grout can be easily wiped off. Natural stone tiles, on the other hand, won’t be as easy to clean. This step-by-step instructional video on grout cleaning and sealing has some essential care and maintenance tips, and will show you the right way to go about it:

We also recommend getting a grout care package, such as this one by Black Diamond that includes a cleaner, sealer, and brush: http://amzn.to/2dMMWOt

GLASS

Glass stovetop

Worrying about cleaning your stovetop should never hold you and your family back from comforting home-cooked meals and fun culinary experiments. Your new kitchen should be a place where you want to spend more time with the people at home, creating old favorites and testing out new recipes. Even the most stubborn, burnt-on spills can be cleaned gently and effectively using this easy method:

Shower glass

One of the first things to make a bathroom look uncared for is a water-stained shower glass.  A solution of 5 parts vinegar and 1 part water works well to keep it spotless. For more on keeping your bathroom looking its best, take a look at this video by Clean My Space:

MISCELLANEOUS

Metal fittings and hardware

Take care to clean drawer pulls, door handles, faucets, and other frequently-used fittings and hardware with the right material. Frustrating hard water stains might make you want to reach for something tough like a brillo pad, but try a microfiber cloth instead – it will do the job perfectly without scratching the finish.

Backsplash

The material you have selected for your backsplash will determine the appropriate care and maintenance required. Natural stone, as mentioned above, will need to be treated with more care than, say, a steel or glass backsplash. But, regardless of material, try to clean your backsplash regularly to keep your kitchen safe from mold and mildew. Remember to use a sealer as needed.

Appliances

It’s easy to forget about appliances that run all the time, such as refrigerators and freezers. That’s probably why they are not featured amongst frequently shared care and maintenance tips for kitchens. Without proper maintenance, these appliances could fail faster than they should. Clean the compressor coils to prevent them from running too hot for too long. For stoves and microwaves, the enemy is food build-up. Keep them clean so they work smoothly. Similarly, dishwashers need to be kept clean and debris-free. In addition, you must ensure they are sealed properly. Check the door gaskets to make sure everything is set up to work well.

Common mistakes to avoid making with your new kitchen or bathroom

  1. Not waiting for protective treatments to take effect. If you are doing the required maintenance on your countertops or bathroom tiles, be sure to follow the instructions completely and wait until the surface is safe for use again.
  2. Not fixing or replacing your appliances if you notice an issue with them. A faulty appliance could damage your home’s electrical system, so it’s important to address any issues there without delay.
  3. Ignoring loose tiles. Cracked tiles open up the floor to rot. If any tiles get damaged, attend to the grouting at the earliest possible.
  4. Using unsuitable and damaging cleaning methods. In this blog, we have looked at a few ways to clean different components of your space. This is because, quite often, people are not aware that certain cleaners (even when they are marketed for a certain use) can do lasting damage. Always look for the right method for each material or surface before you clean, and do a spot test first.
  5. Not calling a qualified professional to take care of a maintenance issue when needed. Sometimes, leaving it to the experts is the best idea, especially when it comes to certain repairs, modifications, and protective treatments. If there’s something about your kitchen you’d like to fix or modify, it’s best to consult an expert before you go the DIY route.

    A note on proper sanitization practices for your new space: In recent months, many of us have incorporated a sanitization practice for our kitchen, bathrooms, and other common areas of the home. While this is advisable for health and safety, using the wrong products can damage surfaces. To help you avoid this, we compiled some tips for sanitizing different surfaces and other practices to ensure home safety for your long-term wellbeing.

    Every kitchen and bathroom we work on at Bath Plus Kitchen has a customized design that incorporates a range of materials. We know it’s tough to think of everything while caring for them. We hope the care and maintenance tips in this quick guide help you find the best way to look after for each component of your beautiful new space, so you can enjoy the feeling of a just-remodeled kitchen or bathroom for longer!

    Key references:
    https://www.durasupreme.com/
    https://cleanmyspace.com/
    https://www.doityourself.com/
    https://www.hgtv.com/
    https://www.youtube.com/

    Contemporary Kitchen Cabinets in the Washington, DC Area

    Contemporary Kitchen Cabinets in the Washington, DC Area

    Transform Your DC Area Kitchen with sleek Contemporary Kitchen Cabinets

    Problem:Your kitchen is outdated. It’s dark, shabby, traditional and you hate it. You see the builder grade cabinets with raised arch center panels and cringe. Simply, you’re embarrassed by your kitchen and don’t invite people over because of it.

    The good news is it’s not your fault. And it’s likely we’ve seen a lot worse kitchens. Outdated kitchens are prevalent throughout the Northern, VA and DC Metro area. Many homes were built in the 20s, 30s, 60s, and 70s.

    Even homes built within the last 10 to 20 years could likely use new cabinets. That’s because the cabinets installed are builder grade with a warranty of a one to 3 years on average. Compare that to ten years to lifetime warranties offered by ​our cabinet companies​.

    Enter the Contemporary Kitchen

    Here at Bath Plus Kitchen, we’re always excited about the future. We love helping you turn your ordinary kitchen into something extraordinary, and nothing transforms a boring, outdated kitchen like contemporary kitchen cabinets. In the Northern Virginia/DC area, using kitchen space to full effect is a big priority, and you may want to simplify your kitchen design to make more of the space you have.

    Contemporary (also known as modern) kitchen cabinets give your space a sleek and simple style that stands out from the everyday while offering maximum functionality and durability. Contemporary kitchen cabinets and kitchen designs all share many of the same features, but still allow for full customization and one-of-a-kind results that will astonish your guests for years to come and make your kitchen a sanctuary.

    Also Read : Transitional Kitchens in Northern Virginia and the DC Metro Area

    Let’s take a look at some of the features of contemporary kitchen cabinets and see what contemporary kitchen designs can do for your home.

    kitchen cabinets dc

    Source

    What Makes a Contemporary Kitchen?

    In many ways, contemporary kitchen cabinets reflect a “less is more” ethos. It’s all of the style with none of the frills – functional designs elegant in their simplicity. Contemporary kitchen cabinets are the most important element of a contemporary kitchen. Contemporary kitchens reflect the simple lines and styling of their cabinetry while incorporating all of the most up-to-date innovations for results that stay fresh year after year. Here are some elements common to all contemporary kitchens and contemporary kitchen cabinets:

    washington-dc-area

    Source

    • Clean, simple lines. ​You won’t find much in the way of intricate detail in a contemporary These designs stick with simple shapes and lines that make kitchens very calming and inviting. This means slab doors and no fancy molding or millwork, making for smooth edges and surfaces all around.
    • Frameless kitchen cabinets. ​Contemporary kitchens feature frameless cabinetry. Frameless cabinets are a must for the sleek lines associated with contemporary kitchen cabinets, and they offer 15% more usable storage space. Frameless cabinets can also be less expensive than traditional, framed cabinets, as they involve less material and labor in construction.
    • Stainless steel appliances.​Contemporary kitchen designs feature stainless steel appliances for an ultra-contemporary look that pairs wonderfully with contemporary kitchen cabinets. Again, the focus here is on timeless style and durability that’s easy to maintain. Stainless steel appliances will become focal points in your contemporary kitchen and define your work triangle, so this one is non-negotiable for most contemporary designs – go stainless or go back to the drawing board.
    • Sleek cabinet hardware and drawer pulls.​Here we see that less really can be more. contemporary kitchen cabinets use minimalist hardware and recessed door and drawer pulls for an elegant look that’s very functional and not too busy. Like other elements of contemporary kitchens, this ensures timeless beauty that never goes out of fashion and is easy to maintain.
    • Simple color schemes.​contemporary kitchens often use monochromatic designs or color schemes with very subtle contrast. This is not a hard-and-fast rule, however, and adding a splash (or more) of vibrant color is one way you can make your kitchen truly yours.
    • Contemporary finishes.​Contemporary kitchen cabinets use contemporary finishes that offer a durable beauty which anchors contemporary kitchen designs. These cabinets often use acrylic, high-gloss, and laminate finishes that reflect a European influence. There is almost no limit to the range of available finishes and colors, so you’ll be sure to find the combination that works for your kitchen and your life.
    • Contemporary lighting.​No contemporary kitchen is complete without the most contemporary LED lighting. contemporary kitchens feature under-cabinet lighting that can be used as both task lighting and ambient lighting, as well as pendant and recessed lighting featuring very simple, contemporary designs. You can also add crown and toe-kick lighting for another great way to personalize your contemporary kitchen with the latest and greatest tech.

    What Does a Contemporary Kitchen Remodel Look Like?

    A kitchen remodel will transform your home like no other single project. This is never truer than when you’re updating your old kitchen with a contemporary design. Let’s take a look at one remodel we recently completed and see how you can customize your kitchen with just the right amount of contemporary to fit your lifestyle.

    Also Read : 10 Mistakes to Avoid When Planning a Kitchen Remodel in Washington, DC.

    BEFORE:

    Contemporary Kitchen Top

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    This is the kitchen on the day we went to take measurements. As you can see, these outdated cabinets didn’t go too well with the stainless steel appliances. You’ll also notice that the kitchen is very poorly lit, with shadows dominating large parts of the work areas. This small space was simply far too busy, and the discordant design features gave the room a “thrown-together” feel. Our client wanted a unifying

    design that would transform this space into something more than just a collection of cabinets, countertops, and appliances.

    AFTER:

    Contemporary Kitchen Top

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    The final design was a very contemporary one. You can see how the new color scheme opens up the room in concert with new and improved lighting. The blue tile backsplash added a touch of color, and the effect of the under-cabinet lighting on the tile is simply magical, especially when the lighting is dimmed for ambience. Our client chose to go with more traditional door and drawer pulls, but the simple elegance of the hardware takes nothing away from the contemporary design and clean lines of the frameless cabinets. The result is a contemporary, more functional kitchen that’s simply a more pleasant place to be – and won’t be going out of fashion anytime soon.

    ANOTHER TAKE ON CONTEMPORARY:

    Contemporary Kitchen Top

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    This design features all the elements of a contemporary kitchen with a traditional flare. The inclusion of wood veneer and amber glass adds a little traditional comfort to this otherwise thoroughly contemporary kitchen, demonstrating that different design elements can easily make your contemporary kitchen unique. Notice the clean look of the contemporary kitchen cabinets and the way the lines in the tilework accent the wood veneer. This is a great example of an up-to-date design that successfully blends a little old with the new.

    Also Read : Plain & Fancy Cabinetry: Cabinets Made Especially For You

    AS CONTEMPORARY AS IT GETS:

    Contemporary Kitchen Top

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    Here we see a good example of a fully contemporary kitchen. Notice the prevalence of simple shapes and smooth lines, especially on the upper cabinets. Here the ethos of simplicity is taken all the way, right down to the island stools, which have a kind of industrial look. The contrast between the horizontal lines created by the cabinets and the patterned backsplash and countertops really wakes this room up, and the wood floor adds a touch of warmth.

    Conclusion:

    If you’re planning a kitchen remodel in the Northern Virginia/DC area, a contemporary kitchen might be what you want to take your remodel to the next level. We’d love to hear from you and show you all the ways contemporary kitchen cabinets and design can transform your outdated space into a dream kitchen.

    How to Create the Perfect Cabinet to Safely Store Your Electronics

    KITCHEN RENOVATION IN ALEXANDRIA VA 2019

    If you’re like most people, you probably have a lot of electronics in your home that you rely on daily – from your TV to your computer to your game console. Keeping all these gadgets in good shape is important, both for their longevity and for your wallet. That’s why having a safe and organized storage solution for them is key.

    To help you get started, we’re going to guide you through the process of creating the perfect cabinet for your electronics. We’ll take a look at all the steps from choosing the right location and material to considering extra features and organizational ideas.

    Before we get started, always keep in mind that while storing your electronics safely is important, there’s always a possibility that unexpected events may damage your electronics, such as a power surge, fire or theft.

    That’s why having insurance is crucial. You should already have homeowners insurance. Adding equipment breakdown coverage can help protect most of the electronics and appliances in your home, such as TVs, computers, and appliances, in the event of an unexpected breakdown. This coverage can provide peace of mind and help you avoid costly repairs or replacements.

    Now, here’s a guide on how to create the perfect cabinet for your electronics.

    Consider the Location

    The first step in creating the perfect cabinet for your electronics is to consider the location. Think about the space available in your home and where you would like to place the cabinet. A central location such as the living room or home office is ideal as it makes it easy to access your electronics when you need them. However, if space is limited, you can also consider a cabinet that can be mounted on the wall.

    Choose the Right Material

    The material you choose for your cabinet is important as it affects the durability and aesthetics of the cabinet. For a classic look, wood is a popular choice, but it can be heavy and expensive. Alternatively, you can consider MDF or particleboard, which are lighter and more affordable options. If you are looking for a modern and sleek look, glass or metal cabinets are a good choice, but keep in mind that they are more fragile and may be more expensive.

    Size Matters

    When choosing the size of your cabinet, consider the size of your electronics and how much space you need for each item. It’s important to leave enough space around each item to allow for air circulation, which will help keep your electronics cool and prevent overheating. If you have larger electronics, such as a TV, you may need a cabinet with more depth, while smaller items, such as game consoles, can be stored in a shallower cabinet.

    Consider the Features

    There are many features to consider when building a cabinet for your electronics. It is crucial to include effective means of ventilation, which will help keep your electronics cool. You can also consider building adjustable shelves to accommodate different sized items. Added smart locks may be a good idea if you have expensive electronics that you want to protect. Break-ins are unfortunately still very common.

    Organization is Key

    Organization is key to making the most of your cabinet. Consider adding dividers or inserts to separate your electronics and keep them organized. You can also use labels or markers to clearly identify each item, making it easier to find what you need when you need it.

    Installation

    Once you have built or chosen the right cabinet for your electronics, it’s time to install it. If you are mounting the cabinet on the wall, it may be worthwhile asking an expert for help. After all, different walls can manage different types of cabinets. You need to ensure that your wall is strong enough to handle it. If you are placing the cabinet on the floor, make sure that it is level and stable.

    A cabinet is a great solution for storing your electronics, but it’s important to build or choose the right one for your needs. Consider the location, material, size, extra features, and organizational ideas to create the perfect cabinet for your electronics. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your electronics are safe and secure, and you can enjoy them for years to come.

    Everything You Need to Know About Types of Kitchen Cabinets Before Your Remodel

    Everything You Need to Know About Types of Kitchen Cabinets Before Your Remodel

    If you are planning a kitchen remodel you might think it easy to choose from the types of kitchen cabinets available. However, there are many more decisions to be made when it comes to selecting your dream cabinetry.

    In addition to choosing from framed cabinets or frameless cabinets, you’ll need to pick from stock, semi-custom or custom cabinet options, select finishes and inserts, and different door shapes!

    Consequently, if you don’t know the particulars of all your options, it is quite overwhelming. With that in mind, we cover the difference between all the types of kitchen cabinets and options and details you can select.

    Framed Cabinets vs. Frameless Cabinets

    One of the tough decisions you’ll be faced with is deciding between framed cabinets and frameless cabinets. Therefore, we’ve outlined the pros and cons of both types.

    Framed Cabinets

    Framed cabinetry lends itself to the traditional. And, the frameless look was a popular European manufacturing style. Today, both styles are widely available here in the United States.

    Flush inset cabinetry

    With framed cabinets rails and stiles are used to create a face frame (think picture frame). In this style of cabinetry, the door hinges are attached directly to the frame. This helps give the cabinet strength and sturdiness.

    Face frames are 1 1/2″ wide. Without a face frame (frameless cabinets) the case of the cabinet is exposed. Typically cabinet casing is 3/4″ thick. The end result is the sides of each door and drawer opening are 1 1/2″ wider. Also the same goes for the tops and bottoms of the cabinet opening, it’ is also 1 1/2″ wider.

    bathroom remodel in McLean, VA
    Beaded inset cabinetry

    Framed cabinets often have adjustable shelves and support many different types of doors. As a result, they provide homeowners with many design possibilities. The photo above shows framed inset cabinetry.

    Frameless Cabinets

    Frameless cabinets have a more contemporary look to them. Using thicker casing for construction keeps them sturdy. This cabinetry type features door hinges secured directly to the inside of the box, instead of onto a frame. After they have been installed, all you will see are the flat door and drawer fronts. This helps to provide a sleek, simple aesthetic that many homeowners love.frameless cabinets

    frameless cabinets
    Frameless, full-overlay cabinetry

    The overall look is clean without the center stile coming down in the middle of two cabinet doors. This allows for more accessibility and more space! The above photo shows full overlay frameless cabinetry.

    Also Read : Picking the Perfect Kitchen Cabinet Doors

    Stock, Semi-Custom & Custom Kitchen Cabinets

    The extent of customization you choose for your kitchen cabinets dictates the size and layout of your space. For smaller kitchens, going fully custom with your cabinets might prove to fit your budget nicely. While a large kitchen might require stock cabinets to be affordable. Below you’ll find the specifics of the three types.

    Stock Cabinets

    A great option for the budget-minded, stock cabinets are the most affordable option. With stock cabinets, you are limited in sizes, styles, and colors. If you are considering this option be prepared to make some compromises to your layout and maybe even your style. Generally, for stock cabinetry, we work with Waypoint Living Spaces.

    Built in the USA, each cabinet WayPoint makes with American pride and expert craftsmanship. Their design focus is on creating kitchen and bath cabinetry with high style and optimal function. Learn more about Waypoint Living Spaces.

    Semi-Custom Cabinets

    Semi-Custom Cabinets come built-to-order. With these, you get a lot more of a selection to pick from than you do with stock cabinets. Consequently, available cabinet widths come in 3” increments starting at 9” wide. Semi-custom cabinets generally allow you to choose your wood species, door style, and color. If you have a specific vision in mind and your budget allows, you will have to compromise less going this route over stock cabinets. We use Dura Supreme Cabinets for our built-to-order and semi-custom cabinets.

    With their ranges of beautiful frameless cabinets, made-in-America Bellmont Cabinets makes both semi-custom and custom styles. Each of their Euro-style cabinets is made in America. Their offerings include three product series of contemporary, modern, and Italian minimalist style ideal for today’s homes.

    Additionally, we carry Minneapolis-based Dura Supreme Cabinets offer a myriad of cabinet options for today’s stylish homes. Their types of kitchen cabinets include flat panel cabinet doors, raised panel cabinet doors, slab cabinet doors, and mullion/accent cabinet doors. Each style comes in a myriad of stain, paint, and wood options. Find out more about Dura Supreme Cabinets.

    Custom Cabinets

    Custom Cabinets are just that! These cabinets come fully customized to customer requirements. As a result, modification possible for your cabinetry to fit to within a 1/16” measurement. Primarily, they can be created to fit any space that you’ve dreamed up. Usually with custom cabinets there are even more door styles and wood species to choose from. You also have the option to do any paint color. We use Plain & Fancy Cabinetry for our high-end custom cabinets.

    Highlighting the expert craftsmanship of the Pennsylvania Dutch, Plain & Fancy Cabinets custom make each of their luxury cabinet designs in Schaefferstown, PA. Their offerings include fully custom high-end cabinets in traditional, transitional, and contemporary styles to fit today’s homes. Learn more about Plain & Fancy Cabinetry.

    Cost Comparison of Stock, Semi-Custom vs Custom Cabinetry

    In regards to price differences between semi-custom and custom cabinetry, there are a multitude of variables. Generally, the price difference has more to do with the wood species and door style than anything else. For example, cherry wood will typically add 40% to the cost of the cabinets compared to birch wood. Other wood species include maple, oak, walnut, and alder. If you’re interested in doing framed inset cabinetry that tends to add 10 to 15% to the cost of the cabinets. In comparison, painted cabinets have a 10% upcharge to them.

    Kitchen Cabinet Quality vs Cost

    Stock cabinets start at $70 per ft. These cabinets are the most inexpensive of the cabinet types and can save you money on the front end. However, because of the lesser quality materials used, their aesthetic and functionality may wane over time. As well, due to their pre-production, you will be limited in style and finish much more than if you chose semi-custom or custom cabinets.

    Semi-Custom Cabinets start at $150 per ft. These mid-level cabinets are semi-custom and offer the best choice for many homeowners looking for a balanced mix of quality and price. Custom options for these cabinets include size, materials, style, finish, molding and trim, and matching accessories.

    Custom Cabinets start at $500 per ft. Premium top-tier generally offer the most options in terms of configuration, storage, and functionality. They are made with higher-end materials, hardware, and stylization and tend to be considered a luxury product. For that reason, fully custom cabinetry gives you the exact look and performance you desire but for a premium price.

    Also Read : Tips for Surviving Your Kitchen Remodel

    Frequently Asked Questions About Types of Kitchen Cabinets

    What makes a good quality cabinet?

    With so many cabinet products to choose from, it can get a bit stressful trying to determine what is a quality cabinet vs a cheap one. Typically, well-built cabinets have a slew of features you should be on the lookout for including:

    • Solid wood drawers
    • Dovetail joinery with no staples or particleboard
    • Fully extendable drawer guides
    • The finishing process for painted or stained cabinetry
    • Quality of the wood, are you getting grade A lumber?

    Why can’t I just have my cabinets refaced instead of buying new ones?

    Refacing is certainly an option if you want to save money. However, we don’t recommend it as many issues arise when refacing cabinets. Hence, they cost you more money than you saved over time. When replacing door and drawer fronts the front-facing section of the cabinet frame will need to be replaced. This ensures the doors/drawers and cabinet match. As a result, shifting or peeling of the laminate refacing begins to show ugly seams over time.

    Finally, refacing makes little financial sense as the majority of cabinet remodeling cost (70%) is the cabinet door. So, if you are going to replace the doors and drawer fronts, why not buy all new cabinets?

    What are the best brands for the types of kitchen cabinets on the market?

    To provide our clients with the best range of cabinet products in terms of selection and cost, we searched for the best brands of kitchen cabinets. The brands we offer are by far superior in terms of quality and options. We are a certified dealer and installer of several top cabinet brands including Fancy & Plain Cabinetry, Dura Cabinets, Waypoint Living Spaces, and Bellmont Cabinets. To learn more about our cabinet brands visit our kitchen cabinet resource page.

    Finally, we invite you to learn more about cabinetry for your kitchen remodel. Be sure to visit our blog regularly for more information, tips, and tricks. In addition, if you need help with your kitchen remodel project or choosing from types of kitchen cabinets available, please get in touch with our team for a consultation.

    How To Avoid 9 Most Common Kitchen Remodel Mistakes

    How To Avoid 9 Most Common Kitchen Remodel Mistakes

    Are you planning a Washington, DC kitchen remodel?  You can save yourself time and headache by reading this post on Washington, DC kitchen remodel secrets.

    At Bath Plus Kitchen we’ve spent thousands uncovering these kitchen remodeling secrets.  Because we want you to enjoy your kitchen remodeling experience we’ve made this report free.

    If you’re considering a Washington, DC kitchen remodel we encourage you to take the first step and contact us.  Above all, the biggest mistake is to forgo a kitchen remodel and regret it years later.  If your kitchen is dated or non-functional you owe it to yourself to at least meet our team of experienced kitchen designers.  If you decide to hire us, we promise you’ll love your new kitchen.

    A little information can go a long way toward your perfect Washington, DC kitchen remodel.  So let’s look at the 10 best kitchen remodel secrets

    Best cabinet for kitchen remodel

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    1.  Washington, DC Kitchen Remodel: Paying luxury prices for RTA cabinets imported from China.

    Unfortunately there are many cabinet dealers selling homeowners in the Washington, D.C. area a bill of goods. And all too many homeowners who are happy to oblige. Therefore, you want to avoid getting hosed on kitchen cabinets it’s important to pay attention here.

    Don’t get me wrong, I don’t like paying more money than I have to for something. The problem is when I pay top dollar to find out later I got ripped off.  In other words, with cabinets being the largest ticket in item in most homes you’ll want to pay attention here.

    It’s important that you visit a showroom. Ours is a quick trip from the District. You can schedule your visit here.

    At our showroom you’ll have the opportunity to see cabinets in person, understand how they are built, where they are built, and review brochures. You’ll also get a sense of how cabinet prices compare. A showroom with cabinets ranging from upscale to semi-custom or builder grade will have a lot to offer you.

    Before making the trip visit the kitchen cabinet dealers website.  Meanwhile, see what cabinet lines they carry to get a quick sense of what’s available. If all of the lines are imports from China they shouldn’t cost more than $600 per cabinet. Run if someone is trying to sell you an RTA (Ready To Assemble) China import for more than that.

    Big picture view: how cabinet companies compare

    Upscale Cabinetry $

    At the top are high-end luxury kitchen cabinets. Our Plain & Fancy Cabinetry line fits the bill here. Plain & Fancy Cabinets will typically price anywhere from $1,500 to $3,800 per cabinet.

    Features & Benefits of Plain & Fancy Cabinetry:

    • Hand-sanding – all finishes areas are sanded by hand.  As a result, this creates a very smooth finish in preparation for paint or stain.
    • 2 coats of primer & 2 coats of paint.  The primer is in the same color as your paint.  Therefore, you’ll have a thick layer and a beautiful layer of painted cabinets that will hold up for decades.
    • Cabinets joined together to form one larger cabinet.  This eliminates seams and makes it easier to install cabinets for your Washington, DC kitchen remodel.
    • Walnut cabinet interiors & walnut species are available if you’re interested in stained cabinets over painted.
    • Lighting integrated and routed into the cabinets.
    • Lights that open when you open a door.
    • Motorized doors and drawers that open and close with a gentle touch or push of a button.
    • 1” thick cabinet doors are available.
    • Full custom down to 1/16th of an inch.

    Popular Custom Cabinetry $

    If you don’t quite need all of the luxuries that come with a fully-equipped high-end cabinet but still want a lot of customization then a popular custom cabinet line is for you. Durasupreme Cabinetry is our line we recommend you consider. You’ll love these cabinets and all that they have to offer.

    Features & Benefits of Dura Supreme Cabinetry: 

    • Full custom down to 1/16th of an inch.
    • Custom paints, possible to select any paint.
    • Choose between frameless full-overlay cabinets and inset.
    • Wood species include cherry, maple, knotty alder, red oak or quarter-sawn red oak, hickory or rustic.
    • You can add glazes, heritage paint, weathered finishes, heirloom to heavy heirloom, and patina to heavy patina.

    Semi-Custom Cabinetry $

    If you’re looking for a simple kitchen remodel consider a stock or semi-custom line of cabinets. Our Waypoint Cabinetry line is a semi-custom line. It offers a lot at a competitive price point. This line will compete against the big box stores.

    You’ll also need to choose between framed and full-access / frameless kitchen cabinets.  Framed kitchen cabinets are the more traditional style, using frames on the fronts of cabinets to give cabinet boxes strength and for attaching door hardware. Framed cabinets use a variety of door styles and are adaptable to many designs.

    Full-access / frameless kitchen cabinets, because they have no frame, are made with stronger boxes to compensate for the structural loss. Therefore, hardware mounts directly to the cabinet boxes, giving frameless cabinets a very sleek look. Frameless kitchen cabinets also offer easier access and even larger drawers, as there is no frame to account for in their design.

    Above all, choosing the right dealer for kitchen cabinets is crucial to a successful Washington, DC kitchen remodel.  First, you’ll want to work with a kitchen cabinet dealer who’s trained and experience in kitchen design.  For example, of our designers at Bath Plus Kitchen studied kitchen design in school.

    Likewise, they’re a member of NKBA, which keeps them up to date on the latest trends in kitchen design.  Further, our kitchen designers attend factory training.  We learn first-hand how cabinets are made and stay abreast of all of the intricacies that go into designing a kitchen.  Consequently, our kitchen designers are well prepared and the go to experts for all things kitchen cabinets and kitchen design.  In short, we’re the easy choice for your Washington, DC kitchen remodel.

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    2.  Washington, DC Kitchen Remodel: Making assumptions about removing walls.

    Many Washington, DC kitchen remodels include opening up space by removing walls. This can have a marvelous effect, but it may be quite costly if the walls in question are load-bearing walls. These walls often contain ducts, plumbing, and radiator piping, which can make removing them unaffordable for some. If you’re planning to remove a wall, make sure you work with a contractor who has a working relationship with an engineer – this will drastically cut down on uh-ohs.

    Learn about our design and remodeling process.  

    3.  Washington, DC Kitchen Remodel: Relying on a builder to design your kitchen.

    The key to your new Washington, DC kitchen remodels is working with a kitchen designer who both understands your needs and has access to cabinet lines that will meet them.  Also, you want a designer who understands modern, transitional, and traditional kitchen design.  It’s important to do your research on the cabinet lines offered by your designer. We’ve seen some kitchen designers and remodelers carry three or four stock cabinet lines imported from China and try to pass them off as ‘luxury’. Don’t find out after the fact, understand what you’re paying for in a cabinet.

    Also Read: Painted vs Stained Cabinets, What’s Best for  Your Kitchen? 

    Also, be sure to take a look inside your walls early in the design phase – making small holes in the wall will allow you to look inside and see what you’re dealing with. Consider doing this as soon as the decision is made to attempt to remove a wall, as you may find that moving your wall is far too expensive for your budget.

    If you’re taking out walls you’ll want to work with a kitchen designer who works with an engineer. This is crucial. Many kitchen designers are all too eager to spend hours on design without knowing for sure whether or not a wall you want to remove is load-bearing.

    It’s a good idea to consult kitchen designers one-on-one. This helps keep you in the know and in control of your kitchen remodel. Great kitchen designers can offer insight and ideas you won’t get anywhere else, and they often have an understanding of styles that can make your vision something tangible.

    There’s nothing quite like seeing your vision take shape with the help of the right kitchen designer.

    4. Washington, DC Kitchen Remodel: Taking too much advice from friends or relatives.

    Chances are you don’t know many engineers or designers. But when it’s time for something like a kitchen remodel, suddenly your friends and family can become experts. Free advice is often bad advice, and you’re generally better off putting your trust in professionals you’re paying to give you advice.

    When it comes to kitchen remodeling in Washington, DC you never want to make assumptions. Shortcuts or workarounds have a record of not working out. We do this every day and still don’t make assumptions. If we’re unsure about something we’ll seek the advice of an engineer, master plumber, or master electrician. You should do the same.

    5. Washington, DC Kitchen Remodel: Not designing for flow and functionality.

    If your design is too cramped for free movement or your layout is wrong, you’re going to end up with a kitchen that’s no fun to use. This is unacceptable in the most important room in your home. Be sure to leave sufficient space for walkways, and don’t neglect the importance of including a proper kitchen triangle in your design.

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    6.  Washington, DC Kitchen Remodel, forgetting about lighting.

    Many homes in Washington, DC have small kitchens with little lighting. A happy kitchen has the right lighting when and where you need it. Designing for lighting is important, and you’ll want to work closely with your designer to understand how to make lighting work best for you.

    This includes sufficient task lighting, general lighting, natural lighting, and accent and ambient lighting. You’ll want to look at all your available options, including under-cabinet, in-cabinet, pendant, recessed, and chandelier lighting.

    At Bath Plus Kitchen we believe lighting is perhaps the most important element of a major kitchen remodel. That’s why we carry Task Lighting and Hafale Lighting, two of the leading lighting companies. By working with Bath Plus Kitchen you’ll have access to the latest in under cabinet, in-cabinet, toe-kick, and crown lighting.

    If there’s an opportunity in your Washington, DC kitchen remodel to add natural lighting you should consider it. For inspiration check out kitchen remodeling project where we opened up the back of the house to add three sets of french doors with transoms.

    Source

    7. Washington, DC Kitchen Remodel: Trying to save old kitchen cabinets with paint.

    If your existing kitchen cabinets are in good shape, you might consider repainting them instead of replacing them. Our advice: don’t do it. Far too often, the result is a kitchen remodel that looks like what it is – a partial Washington, DC kitchen remodel with old cabinets. Your old cabinets will look their age next to all the new features in your kitchen, and by the time you see the full effect, it may be too late.

    Another reason for not painting your Washington, DC kitchen cabinets is it’s a bad investment. Most homes have builder grade or shop-built cabinets. By paying to reface or paint you’re throwing good money after bad.

    Source

    8. Washington, DC Kitchen Remodel: Refinishing old floors that should be replaced.

    Beautiful, old, wood floors are great, but those magazine-quality refinishing stories of old floors usually leave out a couple of details. Chances are if you live in Washington DC your floors are over 80 years old. At that age they’ve exhausted their useful life. Also the floors have likely been refinished two, three, or even four times.

    Also Read: Bathroom Remodeling 

    It’s a wise decision to invest in new floors and start fresh for your kitchen and your home. You’ll have the opportunity to update the floors to a wider plank. 5” wide and 7 ½” wide planks have been the major trend in flooring for a few years now. If you’d like to stick with the traditional 2 ¼” wide consider darker floors, which contrast nicely against white kitchen cabinets.

    9. Washington, DC Kitchen Remodel: Not having a budget or not sharing it with your designer.

    If you’re just starting out we recommend reviewing the Cost vs. Value Report for Washington, DC kitchen remodel.  The report provides you with averages for mid range and upscale kitchen remodels.  And it will give you at least a starting point for what to invest in your kitchen.  To clarify, every Washington, DC kitchen remodel is a custom project and varies greatly from one to the next.

    Having a realistic budget and sticking to it will help you to get the most out of your Washington, DC kitchen remodel.  As a result, your designer will know where to go for an upgrade and where to save.

    For those of you looking to do more than a pull and replace (keeping a similar kitchen layout) you should have money set aside in your budget for unplanned expenses. Especially if you live in an older home and/or are looking to take out a wall. The more involved your Washington, DC kitchen remodel is, the more likely it is that you’ll have at least one problem that creates unplanned expenses.

    Bonus  Tip: Washington, DC Kitchen Remodel: Rushing the design phase.

    Are you in the early stages of considering a Washington, DC kitchen remodel?  Most importantly, take action now.  Certainly if you have a larger project.  We see people think about a kitchen remodel for years.  Suddenly a life event happens and that kitchen remodel you’ve been waiting on has to get done now.  As a result, it’s never too early to get started.

    To sum up, we recommend you plan for two to three weeks of kitchen design of for small to midsize pull and replace kitchen remodels. For large or luxury high-end kitchen remodels plan for 45 to 60 days for your design.

    To clarify, that’s design time.  You’ll want to allow additional time for your kitchen cabinets to be built.  Most semi-custom to custom kitchen cabinet lead times range from 5 to 12 weeks.

    Washington, DC Kitchen Remodel, Conclusion

    We’ve covered ten topics in this article that are typically discussed and addressed in our design phase. Now that you know what to look for, you’re much better equipped for an easier, smoother kitchen design and remodel.  In conclusion, you are now prepared for your Washington, DC kitchen remodel.

    If you have any questions about your kitchen or bath remodel, please contact us or schedule a time to visit us at our showroom at 1215 King St Alexandria, VA 22314.  Above all, we’d love to help make your Washington, DC kitchen remodel a reality.

    Also Read:

    Kitchen Cabinets Arlington, VA 

    Bathroom Remodeling Falls Church, VA 

    Metal Strips vs Bullnose Tile

    Sources:

    https://bathpluskitchen.com/featured-custom-kitchen-cabinetry-alexandria-va https://bathpluskitchen.com/kitchen-cabinets
    https://bathpluskitchen.com/furniture-board-vs-plywood-cabinets/
    https://study.com/academy/lesson/load-bearing-wall-definition-identification-construction.html

    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kitchen_work_triangle
    https://bathpluskitchen.com/kitchen-remodel-estimates

    How To Save Big On Plain & Fancy Cabinetry

    How To Save Big On Plain & Fancy Cabinetry

    Plain & Fancy Cabinets creates stunning cabinetry. For a limited time get amazing Plain & Fancy Cabinets on sale by contacting Bath Plus Kitchen.

    Also save on cabinet plans and renderings. When you order your Plain & Fancy Cabinetry through Bath Plus Kitchen, design services are free! You can also order sample chips and doors shipped directly to your house.

    Looking for inspiration? Get Your FREE 60 Page Plain & Fancy Brochure

    Bath Plus Kitchen is offering three Plain & Fancy Cabinetry cabinets sales. Choose which sale works best for your kitchen remodel or cabinetry needs (promotions cannot be combined and apply to up-charge only):

    1. 25% off all in-house Plain & Fancy Cabinet door and drawer
    2. 25% of inset cabinetry up-charge including 3/4 and 5/4 doors, flush and beaded inset when using any door style
    3. 25% off select cabinet finishes including a white cabinet sale
    Plain & Fancy Cabinets

    Plain & Fancy – Love Your Cabinets

    If you’re planning a kitchen remodel, nothing says quality and attention to detail like handmade luxury cabinets. Cabinets are the most important element in any kitchen. Above all getting the cabinets right is crucial for ensuring your kitchen is everything you want it to be.

    The Plain & Fancy Story

    Plain & Fancy Cabinetry started 50 years ago in a Richland, PA, garage. Since then the cabinet company has grown to employ a team of over 120 craftspeople, engineers, and customer service representatives. All are dedicated to producing the best cabinets anywhere.

    The founder, John Achey, took his passion for cabinetry to its fullest potential. Achey is a member of the National Kitchen and Bath Association Hall of Fame. Furthermore Plain and Fancy Cabinets has remained a family business to this day. They still build cabinets the Achey way, and it shows in their reputation for stellar quality and fit.

    Also See: Painted white and gray kitchen cabinets with Plain & Fancy Cabinets 

    If you’re looking for traditional, transitional, or contemporary designs of unsurpassed quality, these are your cabinets, and with this great kitchen cabinet sale, now is the time to act.

    Plain & Fancy Kitchen Cabinets

    Plain & Fancy Cabinets are Feature-Packed

    How does Plain & Fancy produce such legendary Pennsylvania Dutch quality cabinetry? It starts with the perfect blend of old-world craftsmanship and innovative technology create a perfect fit and finish every time.

    Furthermore Plain & Fancy Cabinetry is committed to excellence. Hence these great cabinets are loaded with quality features you’ll appreciate each and every day.

    Hand-applied finishes. Plain & Fancy Cabinets finishes all their doors, drawers, and panels by hand. All are meticulously hand sanded one at a time and finished flat for maximum coverage.

    All their finishes get two primer coats plus an extra-durable enamel coat for a finish you won’t often see on kitchen cabinets, and they can custom match any color you like to make your cabinets the perfect addition to your décor.

    This is high quality workmanship of the best kind, and with 50% off select finishes, it’s time to get Plain & Fancy Cabinets.

    Beautiful fit, every time. These cabinets are renowned for their fit, and that’s no accident. Most noteworthy, all sanding and fitting is done by hand, and all parts are match marked so they look as great in your home as they do on the shop floor.

    Experience the fit yourself with 50% off up-charge on inset doors and drawers for a limited time – you’ll be glad you did.

    plain and fancy cabinets

    Quality construction. Plain & Fancy Cabinetry uses time-tested construction techniques to build a lifetime of worry-free enjoyment into every cabinet they make. No glue-and-nail joints here: only mortise and tenon joints, dados, and dovetail joints will do for this level of quality. All cabinet bottoms and backs are fully-captured, and all cabinets come standard with full tops and finished sides.

    Veneers, hardwoods, and foils. Modern kitchen cabinets for sale.  Plain & Fancy Cabinets uses only top-quality hardwood veneers, many from their home state of Pennsylvania. If that’s not your style, you can opt for European styles in laminates, foils, acrylics, and glass.

    Full customization. If you want full-custom kitchen cabinets, Plain & Fancy Cabinets is what you want. Hence if you can dream it up there’s a good chance Plain & Fancy can build it. Customize your cabinet doors and drawers, interiors, sides, island end-caps and more.

    Are you looking to for cabinetry design that’s unique to you? Contact Bath Plus Kitchen to get started. We’ll design your custom built-ins, vanity desk, closet, kitchen cabinets and more.

    Also See: Beautiful island with walnut cabinets built by Plain & Fancy Cabinetry

    Only the best hardware, accessories and lighting: Plain & Fancy Cabinetry installs only the finest hardware. For that reason you’ll enjoy opening and closing your new doors and drawers.  Furthermore you’ll discover a variety of interior storage solutions for maximizing the efficiency of your kitchen. As a result organizing cutlery, spices, and all your kitchen necessities is a breeze.

    Also Plain and Fancy Cabinets is also a leading innovator in LED lighting. They offer the highest-quality lighting available anywhere for taking your cabinet design over the top.

    Kitchen cabinets for sale

    Now Is the Time to Have Your Own Plain & Fancy Kitchen

    Plain & Fancy Cabinetry is the right option for your dream kitchen. Now is the time to take advantage of this kitchen cabinet sale. This is a limited-time ‘first-come, first serve’ kitchen cabinet sale.  Get your order in before it’s too late and start enjoying hand-crafted cabinetry by Plain & Fancy Cabinets.

    Start today to lock-in your savings.  Complete the form below and a representative from Bath Plus Kitchen will contact you.

    Transitional Kitchens in Northern Virginia and the DC Metro Area

    Transitional Kitchens in Northern Virginia and the DC Metro Area

    A Blend of Old and New Could Be Just What You Need for Your Remodel

    Are you planning a kitchen remodel in the Northern VA/DC Metro area? Do you want the warmth of a traditional kitchen AND the sleek, functional style of a contemporary kitchen? If so, a transitional kitchen design could be just what you’re looking for. Among homeowners looking to transform their kitchens without going ultra-modern, transitional designs that feature a mix of old and new are a very popular way to create a balanced, unified design that remains stylish for years to come. Transitional kitchens offer a range of design possibilities, allowing you to create your own unique feel and get just the perfect look. Let’s look at some of the hallmarks of transitional kitchens in the Northern VA/DC Metro area and see how a transitional kitchen can be the answer to your big questions about your kitchen remodel.

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    EXAMPLE: Here’s a nice example of a transitional remodel we completed in Falls Church, Virginia. Notice the simple and clean lines, and how the neutral colors create a nice meeting place for the cabinets, the range, and the beautiful wood floor. This works especially well with the open design and creates a smooth continuity between the kitchen, dining room, and living room.

    Also Read : Plain & Fancy Cabinetry: Cabinets Made Especially For You

    Key Elements of Transitional Kitchens

    Transitional kitchens do offer a wide range of design options for personalizing your kitchen remodel, but there are also features common to all transitional kitchens that you need to consider when planning your project. Following a few simple guidelines will make the design process fun and ensure a fantastic new kitchen for your family and guests to enjoy for years.

    1. A blend of old and This is really the guiding ethos behind transitional kitchen design. This allows you to incorporate just enough modern to make your kitchen completely new while keeping just enough traditional to preserve the comfort and warmth of traditional design. This blending of old and new is something you really need to consider carefully – too much flourish or fancy mill work will cause your kitchen to lose its modern appeal, and too many modern materials will leave your design feeling less comfy and inviting than you might want. It’s always good to have the help of a design pro here, especially for big items like cabinets, countertops, and lighting.
    2. Blended A major design element of transitional kitchens is blended materials. This means blending modern with traditional and natural with man-made, and the results can be what really makes your kitchen stand out from the crowd. When done skillfully, this will allow you to fine tune your design to fit your life and your unique style more than anything else.
    3. Blended Here again, the materials you select work in concert to create a rich landscape of textures that keeps your kitchen interesting without getting too busy. This can be accomplished by blending more traditional wood cabinetry with more modern surfaces like concrete for countertops, for example. Textured tile work and natural materials are also often used to add life to the neutral colors that dominate transitional kitchens.
    4. Neutral Transitional kitchens feature neutral color schemes that rely more on texture and materials for contrast. Neutral palettes are more effective for blending materials; for example, they make it much easier to include metals for a more modern look. All neutral is not a hard-and-fast rule, however, and many people choose a muted accent color or even a splash of bold color – but don’t get carried away. The transitional kitchen is about moderation in all things.

    Also Read : Featured Custom Kitchen Cabinetry in Alexandria, VA

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    EXAMPLE: Here’s a transitional design that’s a little more modern. This example really highlights the effect of blending textures to create contrast. As you can see, the colors used here are all quite neutral, and the textural variation between the backsplash, the countertops, and the floor are what give this kitchen its character.

    1. Sleek, crisp kitchen As with any kitchen design philosophy, there’s nothing more crucial to transitional kitchens than getting the right cabinetry. Custom kitchen cabinets for a transitional kitchen are typically made from more traditional materials with designs that include both old and new elements. A popular option is Shaker style cabinets designed with the sleek lines and simple shapes of contemporary kitchen cabinetry. The formula here is pretty simple: don’t over complicate things. Transitional cabinets feature minimal mill work and detail, as too many small details will detract from the symphony of materials and textures, a major feature of transitional kitchens. This is also why you’ll often see minimalist hardware and fixtures featured in transitional designs.
    1. Just the right amount of Transitional kitchens get a lot of their “old meets new” appeal from getting the details right and making somewhat disparate design features work together. So your cabinets, for example, could feature paneled doors, but you’d want to keep the millwork simple and the lines clean and fluid. The same applies to molding, edge treatments, fixtures, lighting, etc. – too much detail detracts from the overall effect of the design, and really undercuts the philosophy of moderation.
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    EXAMPLE: Here’s another great example of a transitional kitchen with just the right amount of old and new. The fantastic tilework and white cabinets really put a spotlight on the luxurious countertops, and also look perfectly natural next to the wood floors, which serves to tie together the more modern style of the kitchen with a more traditional dining room. The available natural light and the stylish warmth of this room really push this one over the top in terms of simple elegance.

    Also Read : Kitchen Remodel Estimates: Good, Better, or Best? You Decide

    If you think a transitional kitchen design might be the answer to your kitchen remodel needs, we’d love to help you get started on the road to your dream kitchen today. Here at Bath Plus Kitchen, we have the desire and the know-how to help you get the kitchen you’ve always wanted; we’re waiting to hear from you.

    Plain & Fancy Cabinetry: Cabinets Made Especially For You

    Plain & Fancy Cabinetry: Cabinets Made Especially For You

    Our Line of Luxury Kitchen Cabinets

    If you’re planning a high-end kitchen remodel, nothing says quality and attention to detail like beautiful, handmade cabinets. Kitchen cabinets are the most important part of any kitchen remodel, and getting them right can mean the difference between a lifetime of loving your kitchen and years of regret. Make no mistake – to realize your dream kitchen, the cabinets need to be right.

    As purveyors of dream kitchens, we here at Bath Plus Kitchen are proud to offer you the finest in high-end cabinets from Plain and Fancy. If you’re looking for kitchen cabinets with legendary Pennsylvania Dutch quality, manufactured using the perfect blend of innovative technology and old-world craftsmanship, we think Plain and Fancy is just what you’re looking for.


    Who Is Plain and Fancy?

    For nearly 50 years, Plain and Fancy has been making handmade cabinets with the love and craftsmanship the Pennsylvania Dutch are renowned for. Founded in a Richland, PA garage by National Kitchen and Bath Association Hall-of-Famer John Achey, Plain and Fancy has gone from one man’s passion to a nationwide leader in fully custom handmade cabinets. Still a family-owned business after all these years, the company now has its manufacturing facility in Schaefferstown, PA, and employs over 120 craftspeople, engineers, and customer service representatives. They offer high-end cabinets in traditional, transitional, and contemporary designs, and they manufacture any kind of home cabinetry you can think of. As they’ve grown in size, so has their reputation for expert quality and fit.

    The Plain and Fancy Advantage

    So why Plain and Fancy? Plain and Fancy combines unparalleled craftsmanship with state-of-the-art manufacturing equipment to deliver the finest quality high-end cabinets available anywhere – all backed by a limited lifetime warranty. But Plain and Fancy also offers an innovative array of features, like integrated LED lighting and fully-customizable interior storage solutions, that make them work better for you. All their kitchen cabinets are hand made by quality-minded craftspeople and supported by a dedicated engineering team that works with us on every detail to ensure your cabinets arrive on schedule and fit perfectly the first time. Plain and Fancy also maintains a dedicated customer service team, always ready and willing to help with whatever our clients need. They even have their own trucking, and their projects go out on time, every time, without shipping damage. They really do dot their i’s and cross their t’s.

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    Features of Plain and Fancy Cabinets

    Hand-Applied Finishes

    Plain and Fancy builds all doors and cabinet panels one-at-a-time. All parts are finished flat for maximum coverage. The process involves meticulous hand-sanding, two primer coats, and an ultra-durable enamel coat for a finish quality you’ll seldom see on kitchen cabinets. You really do have to feel these finishes to understand the quality. Add to this their custom color option (their most popular finish option), and there’s no limit to the possibilities for you and your kitchen – give them a sample, and they’ll match any color perfectly.

    Fit and Inset Cabinetry

    Plain and Fancy produces only high-end cabinets known for their meticulous fit. This level of precision can only be achieved by painstaking hand-sanding and fitting of all doors and drawer fronts. And after each door and drawer front is perfectly hand-fit, it’s numbered to ensure the installation looks as good in your home as it does on their shop floor.

    Plain & Fancy Cabinetry Alexandria, VA 22314

    Flush Floors and Dust Covers

    All Plain and Fancy handmade cabinets come with floors mounted flush with the cabinet fronts for easy cleaning and ease of use. All their cabinets also come standard with full tops, ensuring perfectly square cabinets and providing dust shielding for your cabinets during installation.

    Construction Techniques

    Plain and Fancy relies on time-tested construction methods to ensure their products deliver a lifetime of worry-free enjoyment. Their craftspeople use mortise and tenon joints, dados, and dovetail joints for unbeaten quality and lasting durability. All cabinet bottoms and backs are fully captured for strength, and every drawer box is dovetailed. These quality standards apply to both framed and unframed cabinet styles.


    Hardwoods, Veneers, and Foils

    Plain and Fancy uses only the highest-quality hardwood veneers from sustainably harvested wood. Most of their hardwoods are local to the East Coast, and many come from within their home state of Pennsylvania. They also offer trending European styles with laminates, foils, acrylics, and glass.

    Finished Sides and Decorative Ends

    Sides and ends are an area manufacturers often skimp on, but not Plain and Fancy – every cabinet they build comes with standard finished sides with no upcharge, and they offer a host of customization options for sides and ends on their high-end cabinets. They can make your cabinet sides match your doors or mimic the inset look of the rest of your kitchen cabinets – it’s up to you. They also offer beautiful beaded panels and non-working doors, so your kitchen cabinets look great from any angle.

    Full Customizability

    If fully custom kitchen cabinets are what you want, Plain and Fancy has you covered. They can build any custom high-end cabinets – angled, curved, or whatever you like. They offer finished interiors; a popular option is to use interior accent colors that take your kitchen cabinets to the next level. Combined with beaded backs, sides, and interiors, the end results are absolutely stunning. They also offer unlimited door and drawer options to give your remodel a truly personal touch.

    Top-Quality Hardware and Accessories

    Plain and Fancy uses only the best soft-close hinges and drawer guides; you’ll never have to worry about hardware again. They also offer interior storage solutions that are adaptable to whatever you may need, from cutlery trays to spice racks and everything in-between.

    Integrated LED Lighting

    Plain and Fancy was one of the first companies to offer handmade cabinets with integrated LED lighting, and they continue to lead in lighting innovation. Whether you’d like a dimmable option or a warm, under-cabinet glow, they have the lighting to put your high-end cabinets over the top.


    Come and See These Exceptional Cabinets

    We invite you to have a look at all Bath Plus Kitchen, in conjunction with Plain and Fancy, can offer you. If you’re interested in learning more about these amazing handmade cabinets, contact us to get your Plain & Fancy Cabinetry brochure.  Discover the difference high-end cabinets can make for your remodel.

    Sources:
    https://bathpluskitchen.com/plain-fancy-cabinetry/