12 Uncommon Questions to Ask Your Contractor Before Starting Your Renovation

Questions to ask before hiring a contractor

Hiring a contractor for your next home renovation involves more than just reviewing their portfolio. While examples of their craftsmanship can be reassuring, establishing a positive working relationship is equally vital. Effective communication and mutual understanding can transform a renovation from a potential nightmare into a dream experience. Here are twelve uncommon yet crucial questions to ask when choosing a contractor as your renovation partner.

1. How do you handle unexpected challenges?

Every renovation typically presents unforeseen challenges, be it structural surprises or supply delays. Understanding how your contractor addresses these issues can give you valuable insight into their problem-solving skills and adaptability.

2. What is your process for communicating progress and budget updates?

Consistent communication is essential for a successful project. Ask your contractor about their plans to keep you informed throughout the renovation. Will they provide weekly updates? Is there a dedicated point of contact? Proactive clarity can prevent misunderstandings and ensure you stay informed every step of the way.

3. Can you walk me through a typical day on the job site?

Understanding your contractor’s daily workflow helps set realistic expectations for the renovation timeline. From start times to breaks and the number of workers on-site, this question reveals how efficiently your contractor manages projects.

4. Do you work with subcontractors, and if so, who are they?

Many contractors rely on subcontractors for specialized tasks such as electrical or plumbing work. Learning about these subcontractors and their roles helps evaluate the overall quality and reliability of the contractor’s team.

5. How do you ensure the quality of work and conduct of the subcontractors on-site?

This follow-up question is crucial, as it provides insight into how your contractor manages and oversees subcontractors. Look for answers involving regular quality checks, supervision, and clear communication channels to ensure everyone is aligned.

6. How do you handle project change orders?

Renovations often involve unexpected changes or client requests. It’s vital to understand your contractor’s process for handling these situations. Will they provide a change order with updated costs and timelines? How quickly can they adapt to changes? A contractor who manages adjustments efficiently is a valuable asset.

7. Can you provide references from past clients?

Evaluating a contractor’s work is best accomplished by speaking to previous clients. Request references and follow up with them to understand their experience. Ask about the quality of work, communication, adherence to timelines and budgets, and overall satisfaction.

8. Can you provide an example of a project that didn’t go as planned?

This question can reveal a wealth of information about a contractor’s experience and integrity. By discussing past challenges and their resolutions, contractors illustrate their adaptability and conflict resolution skills. It also demonstrates their honesty and transparency.

9. Do you have insurance coverage?

It’s crucial to confirm your contractor has liability insurance and workers’ compensation coverage. This protects you from damages or accidents that may occur on your property during the project.

10. What type of warranty do you offer for your work?

A reliable contractor should stand behind their work with a warranty. Inquire about the warranty’s length, coverage, and resolution process for any post-completion issues.

11.Can you provide a detailed payment schedule?

Before beginning any work, ensure you have a written contract outlining the project’s payment schedule. A reputable contractor should provide a clear breakdown of costs and due dates throughout the renovation.

12.How do you ensure the site remains clean and safe?

Renovations can be messy, and safety is paramount, especially if you’re living in the home during the process. Ask about their approach to maintaining site cleanliness and safety to guard against potential hazards. Their answer can also reflect their professionalism and consideration.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right contractor extends beyond evaluating previous work. By asking these uncommon questions, you gain a deeper understanding of their working style, communication skills, and ability to handle the unexpected. This proactive approach leads to a smoother renovation experience and more satisfactory results.

Ready to begin your renovation? Equip yourself with these questions to find the ideal contractor for your project. For expert guidance, contact Heritage Kitchen & Bath. Happy renovating!

Discover 2025 Kitchen and Bath Trends with Heritage Kitchen & Bath

Home Trends 2025 Colorado Home Remodeling

As we step into 2025, the world of kitchen and bathroom design is brimming with exciting innovations that enhance both style and functionality. At Heritage Kitchen & Bath, we are thrilled to introduce you to the latest trends that promise to transform these essential spaces in your Colorado home. Whether you’re a homeowner dreaming of a rejuvenated kitchen or a contractor seeking fresh design inspiration, our expert team is ready to guide you through the process. Let’s explore the trends that will shape your spaces this year!

Kitchen Trends of 2025

The Smart Appliances Revolution

In 2025, smart appliances are not just a luxury; they are revolutionizing how we interact with our kitchens. Imagine refrigerators that track your inventory, ovens you can control remotely, and energy-efficient dishwashers. These cutting-edge appliances save you time and energy while adding a sleek, modern touch to your home. Heritage Kitchen & Bath can help you seamlessly integrate these technologies into your Colorado kitchen for a streamlined experience.

Sustainable Material Choices

This year, eco-friendly materials are taking the spotlight in kitchen design. Bamboo and reclaimed wood for cabinetry and recycled glass countertops are sustainable and add unique character to your space. These choices offer durability and cost savings while reducing environmental impact. At Heritage Kitchen & Bath, we help you select materials that align with your values and enhance your kitchen’s aesthetic.

Bath Trends of 2025

Spa-Like Retreats

Transform your bathroom into a spa-like retreat with calming colors, natural materials, and luxurious fixtures like rainfall showerheads and heated floors. Soft lighting and plant accents contribute to a soothing ambiance. Heritage Kitchen & Bath is here to help turn your bathroom into a tranquil Colorado mountain oasis, offering guidance on the latest trends in spa-inspired design.

Bold Color Palettes

In 2025, bold color palettes redefine bathroom aesthetics, moving beyond traditional neutrals to include deep blues, greens, and reds. These hues add character and create dynamic environments. Our in-house design experts can help you experiment with textures and finishes to balance style and harmony in your bathroom.

Smart Storage Home Trends 2025 Colorado Kitchen and Bath Design

Innovative Storage Solutions

Maximize space and reduce clutter with innovative storage solutions like floating vanities and built-in shelving. Efficient and stylish storage systems that fit seamlessly into your bathroom enhance organization without sacrificing style.

Countertop Innovations

Extending Countertops into Backsplash

In 2025, designers are incorporating versatility and creativity into kitchen countertops by extending them into the backsplash area. This sleek design eliminates the need for a separate backsplash while adding visual interest and continuity to the space.

Hidden Charging Stations

Innovative technology meets convenience with hidden charging stations integrated seamlessly into kitchen countertops. Say goodbye to unsightly cords cluttering your counters, and hello to a functional and organized workspace. Here, expert design is essential in finding solutions that suit your needs while maintaining a polished aesthetic.

Textured and Patterned Finishes

Textured and patterned finishes are making waves for the coming year, adding depth and personality to your countertops. Options like matte, leathered, and veined quartz serve as stunning focal points. We assist you in selecting the perfect finishes to create a standout feature in your kitchen or bath.

Mixed Materials for Style and Function  

Combining materials like quartz, wood, and metal is becoming a trend for their unique blend of durability and aesthetics. These combinations offer versatility, adding practicality and elegance to spaces and attracting homeowners and designers. At Heritage Kitchen & Bath, we excel in blending materials to highlight Colorado’s natural beauty. We share a deep appreciation for our vibrant state and express it through materials that enhance your lifestyle, all while preserving elegance and sophistication.

Modern Traditional Cabinetry Designs for 2025

The Shaker-style door is the most popular cabinet front, balancing contemporary and traditional design, aligning with the “modern traditional” trend. Surprisingly, Shaker doors are evolving, with narrower borders making them less recognizable. Expect more of this modern twist on the classic style.

Customizable Storage Options

In 2025, customizable storage options allow homeowners to tailor organization with adjustable shelving and specialized compartments. This flexibility enhances functionality and convenience. We guide you through designing cabinetry that integrates style and practicality.

Timeless Wood Finishes

Timeless wood finishes like mahogany and oak remain popular for their warmth and classic appeal. These finishes complement both modern and traditional styles, ensuring longevity and elegance. Heritage Kitchen & Bath assists you in selecting wood finishes that align with your vision.

Kitchen Trends Colorado Renovations and Design

Tile Trends Transforming Spaces

Geometric Patterns and Shapes

Geometric patterns and shapes are boldly impacting 2025 tile trends, transforming spaces with hexagons, triangles, and dynamic designs. Heritage Kitchen & Bath explores options to match your style and bring versatility to your project.

Natural Stone Textures

Natural stone textures like marble and slate add organic beauty and elegance to any space. These materials offer luxury, durability, and tranquility. Our designers can help you select stone tiles that create a harmonious environment.

Vibrant Color Accents

Vibrant color accents infuse energy into spaces, with bold hues like blues, yellows, and greens creating eye-catching focal points. Heritage Kitchen & Bath helps you enhance your space with vibrant tiles that express individuality.

Engaging with Local Colorado Contractors and Designers

Successful projects in 2025 rely on strong collaboration between homeowners, contractors, and designers. Open communication ensures goal alignment and fosters innovation—Heritage Kitchen & Bath values building collaborative relationships with our clients and partners. As a family-owned business, our dedication is reflected in the quality of our work and the connections we make.

Expertise in Design and Construction

Heritage Kitchen & Bath’s team of experienced designers and contractors boast a cumulative 70 years of experience in the design and renovation industry, bringing expertise in design and construction to your project. This allows us to provide comprehensive services from concept to completion, ensuring high-quality results that exceed expectations.

2025 Home Transformation Partners

At Heritage Kitchen & Bath, we are committed to providing exceptional customer service and delivering timeless designs that elevate your Colorado home into 2025 and beyond. Whether it’s through wood finishes, stone tiles, or vibrant color accents, we have the expertise and resources to bring your vision to life. Collaborate with us and let’s create a space that reflects your unique style and personality for years to come. Contact us today to get started on your next project.  

Heritage Kitchen and Bath Remodel Colorado

Creating Nature-Inspired Tranquility in Our Living Spaces

Home remodel colorado

In today’s fast-paced world, our homes should be sanctuaries that provide peace and rejuvenation. A growing trend in home decor embraces nature-inspired tranquility to achieve just that. By infusing our living spaces with natural elements, we can create calming environments that promote well-being and mindfulness.

The Emergence of Sage Green in Home Decor

One of the most compelling elements of this trend is the color sage green. This soft, natural hue strikes a perfect balance between the freshness of mint and the understated elegance of greige. Sage green, with its soothing and restorative qualities, beautifully complements the growing trend of indoor plants. This color embodies balance and harmony in color psychology, providing a tranquil refuge from the pressures of modern life.

Why Sage Green?

  • Health and Wellness: Sage green is associated with health and wellness, making it an ideal color for creating environments that promote mental and physical well-being.
  • Versatility: This hue pairs well with various other colors and natural materials, making it a versatile choice for any room.
  • Calming Effect: The restorative nature of sage green can transform any space into a peaceful retreat.
Kitchen inspiration design colorado

Incorporating Nature-Inspired Elements

Indoor Plants

Indoor plants are a staple in nature-inspired living. They purify the air, add a touch of greenery, and have a soothing effect on the mind. Consider adding plants like snake plants, pothos, or fiddle leaf figs to your living spaces.

Natural Materials

Using natural materials like wood, stone, and bamboo can further enhance the tranquil atmosphere. These materials not only look beautiful but also bring a tactile quality that synthetic materials can’t match.

Light and Airy Spaces

Maximize natural light and ensure good airflow to make your home feel more open and connected to nature. Large windows, sheer curtains, and strategically placed mirrors can help achieve this effect.

Tranquil Kitchen Design

The kitchen is the heart of the home, and a nature-inspired design can make it a place of calm and creativity.

Sage Green Cabinetry

Incorporating sage green cabinetry can bring a refreshing yet serene feel to your kitchen. It pairs beautifully with natural wood countertops and white or cream accents.

Natural Stone Countertops

Consider using natural stone for your countertops. Materials like granite or quartz not only add elegance but also enhance the natural aesthetic.

Eco-Friendly Fixtures

Opt for eco-friendly fixtures and appliances to stay true to the nature-inspired theme. Choose energy-efficient lighting, water-saving faucets, and sustainable materials wherever possible.

How to Bring this Look into Your Home

Creating a home that exudes nature-inspired tranquility is more than a trend—it’s a way to bring balance and harmony into your life. By incorporating elements like sage green, indoor plants, and natural materials, you can transform your living spaces into restorative sanctuaries. And with the expert guidance of Heritage Kitchen and Bath, achieving this serene environment is easier than ever.

Ready to transform your home into a tranquil haven? Book a consultation with Heritage Kitchen and Bath today and start your journey towards a more peaceful, balanced living space.

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Six things you should know about hexagonal tile:

Hexagonal tiles experienced a rise in popularity during the 1940s. Many homeowners and designers took advantage of their unique shape and found new, creative patterns across floors, bathrooms, kitchens, bedrooms and other spaces in the home. The 1940s were the decade of focusing on the arrangement of tile instead of the cut and shape of the tile. Before this decade, homeowners were drawn to bright, decorative tile designs inspired by Art Deco. As we see a rise in demand and popularity for this organic shape, we want to inform you on six things you should know about this six-sided uniquely shaped tile.

– Hexagon tiles offer a more flexible solution in a small or awkward shaped areas you are designing drawing your eye away from any imperfections.

mix material

– Hexagonal tiles fit into any design aesthetic from Industrial to modern to farmhouse all because they are available in such a wide range of colors, finishes, and styles. Use hexagon tiles in kitchens to create a feature backsplash with a fun and creative mosaic or go bold with black hexagon tiles in a sleek, minimalist master bathroom.

– Create a beautiful line that is more interesting and less harsh than a 90 degree but doesn’t stray away from the visual precision in your design.

– If you’re looking for a bigger statement adding larger hexagon tiles amplifies a space not only giving it a fresh enticing look but creates a more seamless appearance due to fewer grout lines.

– Hexagonal tile is the easiest tile to express your personality and separates your design from the rest.

– Hex tiles are practical, pretty, and relatively inexpensive, so they’re showing no real signs of waning in popularity anytime soon!

When it comes to using hexagon tiles, there’s no limit to the number of designs you can think up. These twists on traditions will stun and create any style you can desire. No matter which hexagon shapes appeal to you, hexagons are here to stay – so have fun creating the design of your dreams!

VIVA MAGENTA! How to use PANTONE’s 2023 Color of The Year In Your Next Design

What is the PANTONE color of the year?

According to PANTONE, “The Pantone Color Institute originally created the Pantone Color of the Year educational program in 1999 to engage the design community and color enthusiasts around the world in a conversation around color. We wanted to draw attention to the relationship between culture and color. We wanted to highlight to our audience how what is taking place in our global culture is expressed and reflected through the language of color. This thought process rings just as true today just as it did back in 1999. That’s one of the major reasons why, each year, so many around the world look forward to our Pantone Color of the Year announcement.”

So what exactly is Viva Magenta?

This year PANTONE says, “Viva Magenta 18-750, vibrates with vim and vigor. It is a shade rooted in nature descending from the red family and expressive of a new signal of strength. Viva Magenta is brave and fearless, a pulsating color whose exuberance promotes a joyous and optimistic celebration, writing a new narrative.” It’s all about power, and empowerment. It pulls a vibrant red that exudes pure joy and encourages self expression and experimentation.

PANTONE 18-1750 Viva Magenta welcomes anyone and everyone with the same verve for life and rebellious spirit. It is a color that is audacious, full of wit and inclusive of all.

PANTONE INSTITUTE

So how can you use Viva Magenta in your next design?

Consider changing out some of your textiles, like pillows, or draperies to help bring some of that rebellious spirit to life! Rugs and accent pieces, art work and decor are all great ways to dabble on a budget, and without going all in!

Go bold with the appliance trends of the day and add a pop of color to your range to bring lively conversation to any gathering. There are so many ways to bring a kitchen to life, and we love this as a way to accessorize any neutral kitchen.

Or my personal favorite? Set off a traditional use of materials with the bold and audacious color! This subway tile would be boring and bland in any traditional neutral – but in Viva Magenta, it’s an expression of joy and warmth.

2023 Kitchen Design Trends – What we’re eyeing for your kitchen renovation next year!

With 2022 wrapping up before we know it, and the new year just around the bend, we are already gearing up to bring you the hottest trends for 2023! Our designers are excited to share these big ideas with you! From enhanced tech (YES! Tech is bleeding into the kitchen!), to bold colors, to multifunctional spaces, 2023 is all about maximizing convenience while improving comfort and letting your personal sale show through. Here are 6 trends we think you should keep your eye on this year.

Large Islands Made for Dining

Move over traditional dining rooms, this is the new way for gathering friends and family! We all know that the kitchen is the heart of the home and all of your guests congregate there anyway. Many homeowners are opting for larger than life islands! Some even some that double as their kitchen table to maximize their space and redefine what it looks to host big gatherings.

The Butler’s Pantry

Sometimes referred to the working pantry, or functional pantry, butler’s pantries are on the list and their popularity is expected to rise in 2023. They offer such a great space for extra food prep, a hidden coffee bar, and a great place to keep extra appliances so they’re off of your regular kitchen cabinets allowing a more clean and streamlined look.

The Slab Backsplash

The traditional white subway tile is being replaced with a sleek, large-scale slab in the same or complementary colors of continuous material. Marble is a hugely popular choice with calm veining and nearly endless color choices.

Organic Elements

Every year we see more and more about bringing the outdoors in, and 2023 is going to be no different. Lots of natural stone and warm wood cabinetry is one of the top requests right now. We love this because it pulls away from the all white, sterile feel of the basic kitchen and allows you to bring personality and character to your home making it a unique showpiece to share with family and friends.

Warm Colors are In

While the trade and true classic colors aren’t going anywhere, we expect kitchens to get a bit more colorful in the new year. Homeowners are choosing warmer tones and bright pops of color rather than the minimalist look that has been in for years past. Why not lean into this and create a space that becomes a conversation piece!?

Smart Technology

As tech becomes seamless in all the other aspects of our lives, it has begun to be a staple in the kitchen too! From smart touches faucets, to voice activated appliances, to refrigerators with camera view directly connected to your smart phone, the options really are endless!

Southern Inspiration

One of my favorite times of the year is fall – when family and friends all gather in the kitchen for fun stories, cooking, and togetherness. But when these events come up, I always find myself struggling to figure out how to cook for a crowd, and entertain at the same time without loosing my mind! If you know me, you know that I am not a good multitasker when talking is involved. Not to mention that around this time of year there are often just too many guests to all be able to sit down at the table for a formal dinner and I find myself with building anxiety over where everyone will sit. And with every dirty dish, instead of enjoying time with my friends, I am dreading the end of the party, not because I will miss my guests, but because I don’t want to deal with the cleanup when they’re gone. I was always thinking, “There has got to be a better way!”

May your home always be too small to hold all of your friends!

-Irish Blessing

This is where the design of a kitchen is important! I love and adore my big island, and it serves my family well for entertaining and everyday life. But it comes in even more handy with todays trends of charcuterie, and butter boards, and casual dining. Recently we were at a friends house in Charleston, South Carolina, where they took this idea a step further and I will never look at entertaining the same. As usual, all of the friends had gathered in the kitchen anxiously awaiting dinner to be served. All of the sudden, the host turns the corner from cooking out back with a boiling hot pot of the most delicious smell. He then promptly dumped said pot right onto the countertop (which I thought was covered in butcher paper to be trendy, but quickly realized was pure genius!) and simply said, “DINNER IS SERVED!” We all looked at each other with a bit of shock and amazement while his wife threw out bread on the table in the same manner, and handed around a roll of paper towels and a few small dishes of melted butter. The pile of food before us included pounds of steaming shrimp, crab legs, potatoes, onions, and corn on the cob. Once the first few brave soles dug in hands first, the rest of us followed suite. I stood there for a moment in amazement at everyone standing around this very well appointed island in the middle of this beautiful home, having dinner in the most fun and exciting way. No dishes, not utensils, no hassle. We laughed, we cried, we enjoyed each other’s company and we really learned more about each other that night than ever before. The lack of formality and stress made the night! And when it was time to clean up, we rolled up all the shells, and remaining scraps into the butcher paper, tossed it all into the trash, and THAT WAS IT! Neither the host, or the hostess was singled out of the rest of the evening stuck behind the sink of dirty dishes and they, too, enjoyed the end of the evening with their friends. It was amazing! And from then on, I’ve been looking at my kitchen island in a whole new way – always trying to figure out how else we can use it to maximize our time with our family and friends.

Save or Splurge: how to focus your budget when remodeling your kitchen

Renovating your kitchen is a huge investment so nearly everyone is budget conscious throughout the process. But, when it comes to picking options for your kitchen, it’s good to remember that getting rock-bottom  prices on every feature might not be money well spent. Often you’ll end up paying more in the long run if you choose low quality items that need to be fixed or replaced in a few years. The best use of your kitchen renovation budget is actually to know when to save, and when to splurge. Obviously this may be different for every family as needs and passions are different for every household, but we have some hard and fast advice to help keep you on track, and know when to hold back, and when to indulge. Generally, we recommend that decorative items that are low-use (lighting fixtures, backsplash tiles, decor and window treatments, etc.) can be a place to save some money. But, when it comes to the high traffic, high use items that will do the heavy lifting in your kitchen, you might think twice before going for the bargain-basement options. Here are some ideas for smart spending and how to help focus your budget on your upcoming kitchen renovation:

COUNTERTOPS

Spend: countertops
Save: backsplash

Countertops are one of the highest use areas of your home so it is important to choose wisely and pick a quality material. Stay away from things that are easily scuffed, scratched, stained, or melted. Formica, tile, or other alternatives do not offer the durability or quality that you’ll find in a hard surface option, and they can often harbor stains, mold, and germs that are impossible to clean. Worried about the cost of a material like granite, marble, or quartz? Do not despair – there are an infinite number of options in natural stone and quartz within a large range of pricing, so you won’t have to compromise style if you’re trying to work within a budget. And, these are the by far the most durable countertop options you can think of, so you won’t have to worry about replacing them any time soon. It is important however to be sure to choose a material that is fitting for your lifestyle and personal style – for example, granites are a natural material that come in a HUGE variety of colors and characteristics, and offer a more unique custom look, while quartz is a man-made option that will allow for a slightly more modern, streamlined look with less variety. Our design team are experts in almost every stone and every brand of quartz and can easily help guide you within your budget and lifestyle needs.

Your backsplash on the other hand is not going to to suffer anywhere near the abuse of your countertops, so it is a great area to save a bit of dough. With so many tile options out there, we are certain you can find something that meets your style desires but won’t break the bank. We work with most every vendor in the Denver area and can either sample options to you directly from our showroom, or can coordinate with each supplier to bring in options that we might not be able to house in store. Once your selection is made, our expert installation teams will get to work.

CABINETS

Spend: cabinets
Save: hardware

Cabinets are the component of your kitchen that will do most of the heavy lifting – literally and figuratively. They are of course one of the most used features of the kitchen but they also hold up your countertops and house all of your dishes, pots, pans, and other storage needs so they make a big impact on function. Cabinets can also be one of the most difficult things to replace, even above and beyond countertops and flooring and the design and layout of the kitchen can make or break the space. For all of these reasons, we recommend that this is a area not to skimp. We offer all of the popular cabinetry brands like Aristokraft, Kemper, Decora, and Kraftmaid Vantage, and even offer a fully custom option with Tischlerei. Yes, some of these brands can be found at your local box store but don’t be fooled. The box stores often offer these brands in a “light” package – meaning that they don’t offer all of the available options from each vendor or may have a limited catalogue to choose from meaning you may not get the design or features that are best for your family. With our team however, the sky is the limit – we offer full catalogues, all the custom features of each brand, and are uniquely trained and partnered with each of our vendors to help provide the very top-of-the-line experience while staying within any budget constraint you might be needing. And, of course, if we can’t fulfill your dreams in the traditional brands, we can always go fully custom if your heart desires.

Now, we understand that sometimes, nothing sets off your gorgeous cabinets and design like some fun, functional, design inspired hardware. However, we really think that this is somewhere that you can save – no need to go all in on bling. And, since these are usually easily replaceable options, you can always change them out as your style or the style of the times change.

LIGHTING

Spend: natural light
Save: lighting features

Lighting can be a make or break feature of an otherwise perfectly designed kitchen. But as mentioned before, you don’t need to go out and spend all of your money on an expensive lighting package, especially if you have access to natural light streaming in through windows or large doors. That’s where our design team can really shine and bring the light into your home. We believe that designing kitchens AROUND those natural features, helping to decide on replacement windows or doors as needed, and then helping you choose ideal places to include any additional lighting can make all the difference. We also pride ourselves in partnering with trusted local businesses to help you find unique lighting solutions with experts you can trust that you won’t find in the big box stores.

COOKING

Spend: range and oven
Save: small appliances

We like to be clear upfront that if you are not a very frequent or active cook, an oven is a great area where you might be able to save. Ovens are relatively simple and can last for a long time without much maintenance. A quality stove, however, even if it is not the top-end option, is where you don’t want to skimp. If you are a passionate, frequent cook, save room in your budget for a good-quality, long-lasting range with a good warranty and that promises to last for many years. We also recommend looking for an appliance that is easy to maintain AND replace parts for.

For small appliances (i.e. coffee makers, toaster ovens, and microwaves etc.), you might be tempted to go get high-quality, gourmet items, but these are actually great features to save on. They’re all available in relatively good quality, and incredibly cheaply these days, and far easier to replace than a range or oven would be.

FOOD STORAGE

Spend: shelving
Save: refrigerator

Believe it or not, even if you have a large family, and do lots of cooking, you can usually find a way to save on a refrigerator. With so many brands and options available, you can easily fulfill your functional needs, without breaking the bank.

When it comes to shelving and pantry however, this falls back to the category of cabinetry. You’ll want to be sure to choose a sturdy, quality, long-lasting options. And even though it might not be a huge portion of your overall cabinetry budget, dry food storage that’s accessible, durable, and stylish, is a great small investment to make for the overall function of your kitchen.

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Quality investments aren’t necessarily a big splurge, but choosing to spend more for a longer-lasting, more reliable, and high-quality product will, in many cases, be a much smarter use of your precious kitchen renovation dollars.

2018 Kitchen Design Trends: it’s all about making a statement

Goodbye grey and white. Hello statement pieces! With the new year in swing, what better time to start thinking of ways to renovate, refresh, and organize your life. And, where better to start than the heart of your home – your kitchen! These 5 design trends are sure to inspire you to be a better and brighter you – or at least have a better and brighter kitchen in 2018.

1

Blue and Green Cabinets

According to Stephanie Pierce, director of design & trends at MasterBrand Cabinets, “Blues and greens emerged as ‘go-to’ color choices for cabinetry in 2017. They are being mixed with other colors, complementing wood stains or even being used as the dominant color alone”.

Blue and greens made a splash everywhere from high-end design firms to almost every kitchen show on the DIY and HGTV networks, and we think this trend is here to stay. These colors offer a way to bring a unique but classic element to your home that will capture your guests attention and offer a timeless complement to all of your interior designs through the years.

We are a proud distributor of MasterBrand Cabinets, carrying the FULL lines of Aristokraft, Kemper, and Decora – not just the limited lines you’ll find at the box store showrooms. We also offer fully customizable lines of Kraftmaid and Tischlerei cabinetry and our team knows all of the design trends and can help customize your space to meet your kitchen goals that will last for years to come.

2

The Color of the Year Is….. Purple!

Ultra Violet to be exact. Pantone announced that the 2018 color of the year is Ultra Violet, stating that the vibrant choice is “complex and contemplative” and that “Ultra Violet suggests the mysteries of the cosmos, the intrigue of what lies ahead, and the discoveries beyond where we are now. The vast and limitless night sky is symbolic of what is possible and continues to inspire the desire to pursue a world beyond our own”.  Pantone, which clams to be “the global color authority,” began announcing and naming a “Color of the Year” starting   in the new millennium, finding trending colors from all over the world, in everything from cosmetics to cars.

Well known, American-made, and luxury quartz supplier Cambria even announced a partnership with the 2018 NFC North Division champion Minnesota Vikings in 2017, fueling “Purple Pride” by offering created 11 bold, custom Minnesota Vikings-inspired quartz designs, many featuring rich purple tones in unique marbling and veining. The custom designs are installed in premium clubs and suites, including The Medtronic Club, Mystic Lake’s Club Purple and Delta Sky360 Club. With their  PRINCETOWN™ quartz, one of the striking Viking designs, you can even bring some of the “Minnesota Mirale” into your home! Weather it be Ultra Violet purple quartz from Cambria, or a more neutral design choice, our team is standing by and able to show you almost any color of quartz you can dream of from all of the leading brands.

3

Make a Statement

Move over white quartz – the 2018 renovation year is all about making a statement, and we think this is a trend that will continue for years to come. One way to get this done is to make your kitchen island a conversation starter, a piece of art, and a way to add drama and style to your new space. Whether it be a stunning blue agate counter top like this stunning accent island, or a waterfall granite edge with dramatic contrasting veining, find a piece that really speaks to you and bring some character into your home with this easy step.

Because natural stone is so unique, it is impossible to keep true, up-to-date samples of what’s available, in our showroom.  But not to worry! Ware partnered with all of the local stone yards, and can easily help guide you on your search for the piece that speaks to you. Just swing by our office for a list of our partners, and we’ll offer some guidance on how to best search their inventories, get your actual piece picked out, held and delivered to our fabrication facility, and eventually installed in your dream kitchen.

4

Dark Countertops

If you can’t get on board with the high-drama statement pieces, maybe a more subtle and classic approach is more your style. Luckily the 2018 trend of dark countertops is a classic look that not only has stood the test of time, we know it’ll continue to be a popular option for years to come. And, to add a touch of flair, most the darker natural materials can also be honed, or leathered on the top surface or chiseled on the edge for  a way to add some different texture and uniqueness to your project.

5

Mix and Match Finishes

According to Sue Wadden, the director of color marketing at Sherwin-Williams, this year, it’s all about mixing and matching color. And, this is nothing new. The days of a monochromatic kitchen design are a distant past and our clients love mixing and matching to make a boring kitchen something to talk about.

Using multiple colors will continue to be a popular trend this year – from darker lower, and lighter upper cabinets to contrasting colored islands, we want to help you make your new kitchen something to talk about. Luckily, the style is the limit with our fully customizable cabinetry lines. We can achieve this look with contrasting stains, or multiple paint choices, or a combination of both. Decora by MasterBrand Cabinets, will even allow you to choose a custom color from ANY one of the Sherwin-Williams paint colors, or even match to your favorite throw pillow… if you can dream it, we can do it!