Classic Cabinetry

Designing Dream Kitchens: Averting Buyer's Regret

Dec 19, 2023

In our bustling kitchen showroom, homeowners in Chattanooga arrive brimming with inspiration for their ideal kitchen. After months of independent research, scrolling through Instagram, Houzz, and other social media platforms, as well as observing the ups and downs of home improvement TV shows, they often enter with a firm checklist of "must-haves" for their dream kitchen.


But here's where the seasoned expertise of our professional showroom designers comes into play. We don't just accept these "must-haves" at face value. We delve deeper, questioning their practicality within the unique space and lifestyle of our clients. We understand that a dream kitchen isn't just about following trends—it's about crafting a space that genuinely caters to your needs.


For instance, it's common for homeowners in Chattanooga to envision their kitchen cabinets soaring up to the ceiling. While this design choice can be perfect in some cases, others struggle to visualize how these cabinets will be utilized, especially when they're beyond the reach of family members. Are they meant for storing rarely used items like fine china and glassware, or should alternative designs be considered to achieve both form and function?


Islands, undoubtedly, are among the most sought-after kitchen features among homeowners in Chattanooga. However, two critical aspects require attention. First, is there ample room for an island, and if so, what are the optimal dimensions? We caution against oversized or oddly shaped islands that may disrupt traffic flow and hinder workspace efficiency. Balancing style with functionality is key here—bigger isn't always better in the world of kitchen islands.


Then there are the often-forgotten appliances and features that deserve a second thought. Pot racks, pot fillers, and countertop appliances like bread makers, rice cookers, and sandwich presses might seem appealing initially, but they can quickly contribute to countertop clutter if seldom used.


Oversized workstation sinks are another feature that warrants careful consideration. While they can be invaluable in compact kitchen spaces where the sink doubles as a prep area, homeowners who desire such sinks must think about accessory storage, including colanders, dish racks, cutting boards, and more.


For those who seek a personal design statement, detailed mosaic backsplashes are an artistic choice that can serve as a kitchen's focal point. Yet, it's important to acknowledge that mosaic backsplashes often demand more maintenance.


In a well-designed kitchen, the focus is on addressing the unique needs and lifestyles of homeowners in Chattanooga. Features that seldom see use or offer limited functionality tend to be those influenced by passing trends. They may not align with the practical requirements of everyday meal preparation and daily activities in your dream kitchen.


So, the question remains: how can you design a kitchen that not only serves your practical needs but also makes a distinctive personal statement? Give us a call at 423-266-0077 or make an appointment to visit our showroom either in person at 2601 Broad St. Let us guide you in creating a kitchen that not only stands the test of time, but also becomes the envy of your neighborhood.

Peach Fuzz Is The 2024 Color of the Year

19 Dec, 2023
For the past quarter-century, Pantone has been at the forefront of influencing design trends by annually selecting a color that encapsulates the spirit of the time. In 2024, Peach Fuzz takes center stage, chosen for its ability to reflect the profound need for compassion and human connection. Described as a gentle, warm, and subtly sensual orange-pink hue, Peach Fuzz aims to bring a sense of belonging, inspire recalibration, and provide an opportunity for nurturing, according to Pantone Executive Director Leatrice Eiseman. Pantone's color of the year is not merely a choice based on aesthetics but a deliberate exploration into the psychology of color. Peach Fuzz is selected to resonate with prevailing cultural and societal moods, aiming to evoke emotions, set moods, and create a unique ambiance. This strategic use of color extends beyond the realm of fashion, influencing diverse industries, including kitchen and bath design. Peach Fuzz aligns seamlessly with a burgeoning trend in kitchen and bath design – the connection with nature. Homeowners in Chattanooga increasingly seek new dream kitchens and baths that incorporate natural elements, bringing a rich, warm energy into their living spaces. This shift reflects a desire for tranquility and a connection with the environment, blending the aesthetic with the innate allure of the great outdoors. To infuse your new dream kitchen or bath with the gentle, warm, and inviting atmosphere of Peach Fuzz, explore the possibilities of color psychology with our expert team. Our experienced designers are ready to guide you in selecting complementary hues, incorporating natural elements, and creating a space that not only follows time-honored trends, but also stands as a testament to your unique style. Ready to embark on your design journey? Give us a call at 423-266-0077 or make an appointment to visit our showroom either in person at 2601 Broad St. Let our designers showcase how color, can transform your new kitchen or bath into the envy of the neighborhood.

The Contents of American Kitchens: What's In Your Drawers?

19 Dec, 2023
One secret to designing a great kitchen is to account for your storage needs and desires in the initial planning phase. A storage plan will address how often you cook, entertain and hold gatherings. A great kitchen must not only look out of this world, it also must incorporate the best functionality that meets your needs. We find that many homeowners in Chattanooga have amassed a wide range of cookware, bakeware, kitchen tools, storage containers, cutlery, utensils, gadgets, and countertop appliances. Preparing for a renovation is a great time to curate and purge items that are rarely if ever used. There is no need to feel badly about the purge, because you are not alone. Yougov researcher David Montgomery recently surveyed 1,000 adults to determine the different items that are found in their kitchen drawers and cabinets. The results are fascinating. Here are several of the key findings: 35% of Americans own a spork which is a utensil that combines the functionality of a spoon with two to four fork-like tines. More men own sporks (38%) than women (31%) and more people under the age of 30 (58%) own a spork compared to 25% of the rest of the population. 91% of Americans own a steak knife. 99% of Americans own a fork, 98% own a spoon and 96% own a dinner knife. 48% of Americans own chopsticks. 47% of Americans own a garlic press, which is more popular in the Northeast than in the West. The spatula is the most used kitchen utensil, with 64% reporting they use one frequently and only 2% of the population responding they don’t own one. Other items that are owned and used most frequently are cutting boards, can openers and measuring cups. If you have a rolling pin in your kitchen it is likely to be under used. Only 14% of Americans use a rolling pin frequently . A head scratching find is that 12% of Americans do not know if they owned a zester and 15% were unsure if they owned a mandolin slicer. Comparatively, only 2% of Americans were unaware if they owned a measuring spoon or whisk. 65% of those who described themselves as great cooks reported having a zester compared to 37% of others who claimed that they were good, okay or terrible cooks. Despite a movement away from kitchen clutter, the survey found that 27% of Americans would like more gadgets in their kitchen compared to 17% who wanted less. Regardless of where you fall, a key to creating a great kitchen is to account for the items that you and your family use most often and to work with a savvy and experienced designer who can create a storage plan that meets your unique needs. If you would like assistance in creating a clutter-free kitchen, call at 423-266-0077 or make an appointment to visit our showroom either in person at 2601 Broad St.

Crafting Your Dream Kitchen: A Blueprint for Wellness and Nutrition

By Harry Miller • 19 Dec, 2023
For many homeowners in Chattanooga, the kitchen is more than just a place to cook; it's a space that can contribute to a healthier lifestyle, focusing on nutrition and overall well-being. According to the 2024 Kitchen Trend Research Report by the National Kitchen and Bath Association, the trend of designing kitchens to promote wellness is expected to grow in the coming years. Here are key features to consider when creating a kitchen that fosters health and nutrition. Natural Light: Embrace the benefits of natural light by incorporating windows, doors, and skylights into your kitchen design. Natural light not only promotes well-being but also boosts positive moods, creating a vibrant and inviting atmosphere. Open Layouts: Foster social interaction and family meals with an open kitchen layout. Large kitchen islands provide opportunities for family members, friends, and guests to collaborate, work, and socialize in the space, making it a central hub for connection. Indoor Gardens: Grow your own food for a fresher and healthier experience. Consider designating spaces for indoor hydroponic and herb gardens, utilizing grow lights, and placing them in pantry spaces to seamlessly integrate greenery into your kitchen. Recycling and Composting: Promote sustainable living by incorporating recycling and composting solutions. Concealed composting bins help reduce waste and odors, aligning your kitchen with environmentally conscious practices. Ergonomic Designs: Reduce physical strain with ergonomic designs. Optimize countertop, cabinet, and appliance heights to minimize bending, making cooking and meal preparation more accessible and less physically taxing. For example, place dual ovens horizontally instead of vertically if there is sufficient space to do so. Proper Ventilation: Ensure good air quality by investing in effective ventilation systems. Statement-making range hoods not only serve a vital functional purpose, but also become a captivating focal point in your kitchen. Natural and Healthy Materials: Connect with nature by using natural materials like wood, natural stone, and quartz. These elements promote serenity and a connection to the environment, creating a harmonious kitchen space. Three Layers of Lighting: Illuminate your kitchen effectively with three layers of lighting—task lighting for food preparation, ambient lighting for mood, and accent lighting to highlight focal points or specific areas. Glass Front Refrigerators: Reduce food waste by opting for glass front refrigerators. By making the contents visible, especially perishables, you're more likely to use and consume items efficiently. Ease of Navigation: Streamline your kitchen for easy navigation, ensuring quick access to tools and ingredients necessary for healthy cooking. Meal Planning Space: Dedicate a space for meal planning to help track nutrition goals, plan meals, and effortlessly create grocery lists. Smart Storage Solutions: Enhance organization with pull-out shelves, deeper drawers, and adjustable shelving. Smart storage solutions make it easier to maintain an organized and user-friendly kitchen. Ready to transform your kitchen into a haven of health and wellness? Give us a call at 423-266-0077 or make an appointment to visit our showroom either in person at 2601 Broad St. Let us guide you in creating a kitchen that not only enhances your culinary experience but also promotes a better, healthier, and more enjoyable lifestyle for you and your family.
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