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.

Design Basics to Help You Create the Perfect Kitchen Island

For most people, designing a kitchen can be a challenge – and figuring out how to make every piece functional, including the island can be confusing.

While there’s no one-size-fits-all measurement for a kitchen island, these tips can help you in planning your home improvement project:

• Decide on the main function of your island. Most homeowners use this space for cooking, prep work, cleaning, or eating. If it will be used to entertain guests or just for casual meals, seating should not be overlooked. Determining its functionality is also important in picking storage solutions and appliances later on.

• Make a list of everything you want to integrate into your island. If you prefer having a sink and appliances in your island, you’ll need more space. Or let’s say you want a cooktop installed. You’ll also have to consider where to place the exhaust vent or hood. Because the space in a kitchen island is limited, get at least your top priority features.

• The amount of storage you need depends on your kitchen layout. If the design includes enough cabinetry, you can skip making your island as storage. Rather, it can serve as your main prep area where you can place other appliances, cutlery, and cutting boards.

• Your island should fit perfectly into your kitchen – not too big, nor too small for your needs. Usually a 3 feet wide island will serve you well but you can extend up to 7 feet to accommodate large appliances.

• The counter should be in a comfortable height. You can design it in two levels – with the dining side higher and prep area lower.

• The island should complement your kitchen layout and complete the work triangle. If you want more than just a working kitchen, consider hiring a designer or architect.

Call Milan Stoneworks today for your next remodeling project. When it comes to your kitchen island, we can help you in identifying your needs and turning those details into an efficient plan that suits your lifestyle.

How to Design a Master Bathroom

A spacious master bathroom is one of the most sought after elements in home design. The addition of luxurious features can turn it into a place for pampering and a cozy retreat from work, chores, and busy schedules.

There are several material choices and design solutions – from basic elements to lavish amenities. Here are some design basics to help you create a perfect bathroom layout:

•  Design experts suggest allowing clear pathways of at least 36 inches for circulation, while the space in front of sinks should be at least 42 inches. Giving extra room makes it convenient for you to move around.
• The sink should be placed where it is readily accessible. For limited spaces, the most common setup aligns the sink within a cabinet, while larger spaces may have a personal countertop and independent cabinets.
• Tubs can serve as a focal point so make sure it is in a desirable placement leaving enough open floor space for entering and exiting.
• Showers should be positioned in water resistant areas. Decide whether you want an open shower or privately enclosed with glass. Again, there should be a dedicated floor space in front of the shower door where being wet is not a hassle.
• The toilet should be placed at least 18 inches from bath fixtures, wall, or other obstacle. This space should be properly ventilated with exhaust fan or windows.
• You can add a linen closet in a bathroom if possible. It should be positioned away from wet areas.
• A little luxury goes a long way. If you have the space and budget, use a built-in vanity.
• Sharp corners on countertops should be avoided. Top edges and corners should be rounded over or clipped.
• Even the toilet paper holder has recommended measurements! The National Kitchen & Bath Association suggests placing it 26 inches above the floor and 8 to 12 inches away from the front edge of the toilet bowl.

Don't feel overwhelmed with all the technical stuff – we can help you design a bathroom that fits your standards. Visit our website today and let’s get started!

4 Low-Maintenance Kitchen Countertops

Are you determined to find and install a low-maintenance countertop? You’re not alone. Many people want a gorgeous counter to make workflow easy. We bet you don’t want to spend more time wiping stains, sponging, buffing, polishing, or having to reseal your countertop annually. Rather, you want an easy-to-clean countertop where you prepare home-cooked meals for your family, entertain your guests with a glass of wine, or simply chat with your kids over a morning meal.

During your next remodel, consider these low-maintenance kitchen countertops:

Engineered stone. Caesarstone and Silestone are the most popular brand names for engineered stone, or simply referred to as quartz. This material is made of crushed stone and polymer resin. An ideal countertop for the kitchen and bath, it is nonporous and resistant to stains and scratches. You can clean it by just wiping it down with mild soap and water.

Laminate. Laminate countertops do not only come in a wide variety of gorgeous patterns, colors, and finishes, but they’re just as easy to clean and stain resistant as you liked it to be.

Zinc. With a zinc counter installed in your kitchen, you don’t have to worry about wiping up every fingerprint. Thanks to its gorgeous patina! The material is nonporous and bacteria-resistant. Just a quick wipe down and voila, the mess is almost entirely gone!

Solid Surface. Solid surface countertops are resistant to staining, impact, and heat. If you noticed some light scratches on the surface, it can be sanded out and restored to its original appearance. It offers a worry-free upkeep and looks great with a little effort.

Corian and soapstone are among the crowd’s favorite. Corian solid surface has been used in many homes and public spaces and is highly customizable, durable, and easy to clean and maintain. Similarly, soapstone can keep up with whatever design imagination you may have. Known for its durability, density, and ability to withstand heat, this kitchen counter has been used for many years. This solid surface is resistant to stains and bacteria and can be wiped down with wild soap and water.  

Have you recently made the decision to renovate your kitchen?  If so, which type of countertop would you like? Give Milan Stoneworks a call today for a free estimate.

Eco-Friendly Quartz Countertops: Quick Facts & Our Top Picks

Does your kitchen look more drab than fab? Consider revamping it with eco-friendly quartz.

Replacing countertops is probably the most enticing kitchen improvement you can make. Whether you are on a budget or can afford something luxe, it’s smart to go green. Plus, making a switch to sustainable natural stone product won’t change the resale value of your home.

Sustainable materials, such as Caesarstone Quartz, Staron quartz, and PentalQuartz, are just as stunning as traditional countertops. Not convinced? Check out these quick facts about natural quartz:

• A Greener Option. Quartz countertops qualify towards LEED certification points. Comprised of 93% quartz stone, they are more environment-friendly than other natural stone.

• High-durability. Being the 4th hardest mineral on earth, quartz won’t crack or chip.

• Low-maintenance. Quartz countertops are non-porous and resistant to stains and bacteria buildup. There are no sealing requirements and special cleaning rules to follow.

• Generous warranties. Depending on the manufacturer, quartz countertops come with 10, 15, and even lifetime warranties.

• Greenguard Certified. Quartz countertops have zero VOCs and are approved to bear the Greenguard Indoor Air Quality Certified mark. This is one of the meaningful certifications you should seek as you sort through countless choices of materials.

At Milan Stoneworks, we care about the environment while installing only the best products in your home. These are a few examples of quartz products that we are proud to carry:

• CaesarStone Quartz. Comprised of 93% natural quartz, with its stain, scratch, and heat-resistant properties, CaesarStone is the ideal choice for carefree countertops. CaesarStone introduces the first of its kind lifetime warranty - the only warranty that covers your surface for as long as you own your home.

• Staron Quartz Surfaces. Staron quartz is a non-porous product. It is highly resistant to bacterial growth and stains such as red wine, cooking oil, and other spills. Thus, making the product virtually maintenance free, since, it doesn't require sealing or periodic polishing.

• LG Viatera. Unlike Granite or Marble, LG Viatera does not need topical sealing, allowing lasting beauty with very little maintenance. LG Viatera appeals to those who prefer the elegant look of stone, but desire a product that is easy to maintain and like all LG countertop surfacing products, is backed by the industry leading 15 year warranty.

• PentalQuartz. PentalQuartz will complement your home décor for years to come, is easy to care for and requires little maintenance. Highly heat, stain, and scratch resistant, it is designed to withstand whatever life throws its way. Its timeless beauty is suitable for every room in your home -- from kitchen countertops and bathroom vanities to bar tops and tub surrounds. Moreover, it is naturally nonporous which prevents mold and other microbes from growing, without harmful chemical treatments.

Need inspiration for your next remodel? Visit our showroom and we’ll show you how we’ve used sustainable materials in projects with other customers.

Tips For Cleaning Your Granite Countertop

                              

Many homeowners don’t realize that cleaning a granite countertop properly is crucial to keep it germ-free and safe. According to a survey, 33% of homeowners use common all-purpose cleaner on their countertop while 28% use disinfecting wipes. Surprisingly, 19% use a glass cleaner for their natural stone.

To keep your granite in tip-top shape, follow these tips:

• Household cleaners, such as glass cleaners, could affect the sealant and put granite surfaces at risk of getting stained. If you are using general cleaners, you might start to notice the difference in the look and feel of natural stone.

• Experts recommend cleaning natural stone surfaces with a cleaner that’s formulated to wipe away stains without jeopardizing the protective seal.

• If you’ve spilled something on the counter, remove it as soon as possible. Use a soft sponge, a nylon brush, or other non-abrasive material. Spray the surface with a granite cleaner then wipe it with a clean cloth.

• Natural stone like granite can be very porous. It is important to seal your natural stone countertop with a sealer that helps repel spills on the surface, allowing time to wipe everything before penetrating your granite counter.

How do you keep your kitchen countertop clean? Let us know in the comments below!