Brick Kitchen: An Increasingly Popular Trend

When you hear the word “brick,” you probably think about perimeter walls or accents in the ground floor! Actually, an intricate brickwork is full of special details that make you feel like you’re in an urban loft. A brick kitchen brings a wonderful historic look and warms up a kitchen.

In fact, brick homes are common in Texas because the material can be found locally and can withstand harsh climate. It is utilized in the kitchen and seen elsewhere on the house, creating a connection between the exterior and interior architecture.

Whether you want to come up with a beautiful wall surface, flooring, ceiling, simple attractive border or a featured backsplash, bricks can serve as a decorative element. Take a look at these lovely spaces and discover a perfect way to add character to your kitchen.

Vintage

If you have a kitchen with brick walls, you can add other vintage touches such as old fashioned pots and pans and artwork.. You can also paint wood floors or refinish reclaimed ones. To add a complete Colonial feel, use your brick fireplace as a focal point.

Country Style

For those of you who love a country style interior, you can make your kitchen adapt a farmhouse look with painted cabinets, dark wood floors, and rustic furnishings. Incorporate brick to other areas, such as your backsplash or flooring for a touch of warm, nostalgic elegance.  

Traditional

Those who are in the traditional side can also use brick to make a small space accentuate its amazing side. Consider adding earthy hues for a homey feel and picking a theme so you can match all the accents in the entire room. For instance, you can use chairs covered in patterned seat cushions to bring out a shabby chic style.

Modern & Contemporary

Brick walls are not limited to traditional looks; an old brick texture enhances a modern kitchen. Mix warm and cool tones, go for a minimalist theme, or use bold colors for an artistic interior.  In a contemporary home, brick accent walls help define the kitchen from the other room spaces in the open plan.

What do you say about using bricks in your walls, flooring, or backsplash? Leave your thoughts in the comments below. 

Got questions? Call 503.232.6206 or visit www.milanstoneworks.com today and let’s bring your kitchen back to life!

6 Kitchen Remodeling Myths

When it comes to kitchen renovation, good planning has never been more important. Learning the design basics and other details as well as these 6 kitchen remodeling myths, will ensure you’re on the right track.

You may be thinking of revamping your kitchen or doing some minor upgrades. Either way, you should stop clinging into unrealistic expectations. It’s time to debunk a few myths and start gaining remodeling wisdom:

Myth #1: Last-minute changes won’t affect the planning process

Some people fail to anticipate any possible additions, such as appliances and lighting fixtures. Do you want to have a flat screen TV in your kitchen? Consider electrical and cable lines that will be installed. Or you might soon need more outlets on your counter or island. Designers agree that it is best to add features during, not after, the renovation.  

Myth #2: Kitchen renovation is expensive

Although a kitchen renovation is such a huge investment, you don’t have to break the bank. Create a budget you can stick with and focus on spending it on the essentials.

Myth #3: Bigger is always better

When designing a kitchen, we encourage our clients to choose quality over quantity, especially if you are on a budget. While a huge kitchen looks great, it will be difficult for you to clean or prep if appliances are too far apart. Just imagine having to walk endlessly from one work zone to another! If you want a more enjoyable and entertaining space, go for an efficient kitchen.

Myth #4: You can make it fit

Sometimes you are too preoccupied with designing your kitchen and you tend to forget the physical limitations. For an instance, a small kitchen can’t accommodate an island or appliances that occupy a lot of space. Be sure to pay particular attention to the aisle width (42-48 inches).

Myth #5: Style over functionality

In a perfect world, your kitchen only has beautiful features. But in reality, you will have to deal with clutter. Most of us don’t own items that match with the entire kitchen design so if you have a crowded pantry, try organizing it instead of switching to a butler area or adding a glass-front cabinet. Be sure to have adequate storage and achieve a balance between function and style.

Myth #6: “It will work for my kitchen, too.”

There are so many design ideas today and it’s very tempting to follow the latest trends. But don’t get carried away if you see a kitchen showroom or someone else’s home. Consider the style, functionality, and your lifestyle. A kitchen that looks beautiful and works beautifully for the way you live will add value to your home.  

Myth #7: “I don’t need a designer.”

While simple upgrades don’t require a designer, most of the renovations need someone to help you look at the big picture and oversee the project. This includes coordination of the architect and contractor. Hiring experts can save your sanity by keeping your remodeling project under the budget.

Let’s make your dream kitchen a reality! Call 503.232.6206 or visit www.milanstoneworks.com today.