How To Design Your Dream Kitchen

Todays Designer Kitchens pexels-alex-qian-2343467-2000x1200 How To Design Your Dream Kitchen

Here is how to design your dream kitchen if you are planning a renovation. Our tips come from years of kitchen installation experience so we hope you find them useful.

Remember that making a plan before you begin is the key to success. So, with that in mind, here are very important considerations before you begin your kitchen project.

Kitchen Function


One of the most important aspect to think about when planning a new kitchen design (or any space for that matter) is to determine what function you wish it to serve.

Kitchens are a lot more than just cooking spaces these days. Kitchens are the heart of the home, a place where we gather and spend most of our time. Just think of all the things you do in your kitchen everyday like: work, watch tv, read the mail, chat with the family, do homework, entertain friends and so much more.

Todays Designer Kitchens pexels-terry-magallanes-2635038-1024x684 How To Design Your Dream Kitchen

That’s why its so important to narrow down exactly what you see yourself doing in this space! Here are some things to consider:

-How do you plan on using it everyday? Does your everyday resemble a busy hang out or is more a place that is just used for cooking?
-Besides cooking, what other daily activities do you like to do in the kitchen? Do you like baking? Watching TV while you work? Need a special space for homework like a desk area?
-Do you like to entertain? If so, you may want to think about a dedicated place for a beverage center that houses a wine fridge, wine glasses, or a coffee bar.
-How much seating do you need? Most kitchens nowadays are eat in kitchens and have an area for an everyday family table, but if you are someone who likes to entertain, maybe you need an island with more seating?

Kitchen Work Triangle

Having a proper flow in your kitchen is critical to make it function. One thing to keep in mind is the distances between each point in your triangle (sink, stove, fridge access points).

Todays Designer Kitchens Slide1-1 How To Design Your Dream Kitchen

There are many ways to do this but here is a typical work flow triangle for reference, keep things between 40″ – 60″ apart if possible. For detailed layout information go HERE.

Todays Designer Kitchens Work_triangle How To Design Your Dream Kitchen

Kitchen Storage

If you don’t think about storage now, you sure will wish you did later! No matter what size your kitchen you need to have a plan of how to store your stuff.

What do you use all the time and need easy access to? What can be stowed away that you do not need to use all the time?

-If you use small appliances regularly, think about where would be the easiest place to access them.

-Maybe create an appliance garage with doors that retract, or build a large pantry with pull-out drawers to easily lift out items where they can sit without using up counter space.

Todays Designer Kitchens SCG-modern-kitchen-view-4-724x1024 How To Design Your Dream Kitchen

-Other storage solutions that can make your kitchen function with ease could be pots and pans drawers, pantries with pull-out shelves, or walk-in pantries and spice racks

-what height and where do you like your plates, glasses, mugs, utensils?

Kitchen Lighting

There are 3 recommended types of lighting for every kitchen renovation.

Todays Designer Kitchens ws3-1024x682 How To Design Your Dream Kitchen

General Lighting. This is what lights up the entire space like pot lights. Add dimmer switches for versatility. Pendant lights over islands, or chandeliers over tables are also an example of general lighting, but we tend to use more statement pieces here that lend a decorative touch.
Task Lighting. Lighting that helps preform certain tasks. Under-cabinet lighting is an example of task lighting that a lot of people tend to skip, and its so important! Shadows from overhead lighting can often be cast underneath the cabinets, making prep work on the counters difficult, even dangerous if your finger didn’t see the blade of the knife coming! Integrating your lighting within your cabinet design will lead to a seamless look. Another place that task lighting is often overlooked is over the sink.
Accent lighting. This is the lighting thats not really necessary for function, but highlights the wonderful design of your kitchen, which you are going to want to show off! Uplighting, or lighting in glass cabinets are a great example of accent lights. Under cabinet lighting is necessary for tasks, but can also accent your upper cabinets and countertops beautifully.

Kitchen Appliances

Choose kitchen appliances ahead of time! Until you know what kind of appliances you want to put in your kitchen, you wont be able to properly determine your layout.

If you like to cook you may want to opt for a 6 burner stove or cooktop. Do you prefer gas or electric? When choosing your range or cooktop, there are stand alone options that usually have the controls at the back, or slide in options with the controls at the front. What kind of range hood do you prefer? An insert or a chimney hood? If you are a baker, double wall ovens may be the way to go.

Refrigerators also widely vary in size and depth. You can get counter-depth options for a more built-in look, standard depth, or built-in appliances that can be covered with door fronts that match you cabinetry for a seamless look.

Do you use your microwave a lot? You may want to invest in a built-in option. As you can see there are so many options available for appliances that factor into the overall design of your kitchen.

Want to Renovate the Kitchen and Don’t Know Where to Start?!

The team at Today’s Designer Kitchens in St. Catharines can assist you wherever you are in your kitchen renovation journey. We design, supply all materials and do full installations.

Call us today or fill out an online form to get an absolutely no obligation home consultation and quote and don’t forget we do it all from floor to ceiling and everything in between for your kitchen renovation including wall removal.

Get A Free Consultation

ABOUT US

Todays Designer Kitchens image How To Design Your Dream Kitchen

The team of professionals at Today’s Designer Kitchens are dedicated to bringing high quality full service kitchen renovations that are affordable beautiful and functional.

We undertake work in all scopes and budget ranges and provide a full service kitchen solution from floor to ceiling.

Visit Our Showroom M-F 10 am-4 pm.

Address: 239 Carlton St Suite #1, St. Catharines, ON L2R 1S1

Phone: 905-641-2284

Why Shaker Style Cabinets Work in Most Kitchens

Todays Designer Kitchens bw Why Shaker Style Cabinets Work in Most Kitchens

Why Shaker Style Kitchen Cabinets Work

There are so many kitchen cabinet styles to choose from when renovating but hands down the Shaker style cabinets are the most popular and work in most kitchens perfectly.

Why is Shaker-style cabinetry so popular?

The style has been around for ages (the name comes from the Shaker community) and maintains its appeal with a simple look that has a look and feel of the homemade wood furniture made in the past with its plain rail and stile construction.

(below, a classic white shaker kitchen cabinet door)

Todays Designer Kitchens 01-door-white-shaker Why Shaker Style Cabinets Work in Most Kitchens

Contemporary Kitchen with White Shaker Style Cabinets

There are several reasons shaker cabinetry works with any home décor:

Classic Look

 

Todays Designer Kitchens Slide1-1 Why Shaker Style Cabinets Work in Most Kitchens

Can be Stylized Easily

Shaker cabinets are one of the tenets of a timeless kitchen design that will never become outdated. The simplicity of shaker doors—almost like a flat-panel door but with a slightly raised border—are a large part of their appeal. It’s a basic and straight forward look, with just enough detail to provide depth and interesthaker cabinet doors are used for both traditional cooking areas and modern ones. Traditionalists appreciate the timelessness of their appearance and can opt to use slightly more ornate door handles and drawer pulls if they’re looking for more detail. Modernists, on the other hand, enjoy their clean lines. A transitional kitchen design will often implement Shaker doors as a way to marry the simplicity of a modern design with decorative columns or accoutrement on the kitchen island, the hood or elsewhere.

Shaker Cabinets Look Great in Any Colour

Shaker doors take paint or colored laminate very well, and both can produce gorgeous results to help you achieve your desired design style. On the flip side, the broad panels on the door serve to emphasize the beautiful natural wood grain patterns, so wood stains are a deservedly popular finish choice as well.

 

Todays Designer Kitchens SCG-modern-kitchen-view-2-1-1024x525 Why Shaker Style Cabinets Work in Most Kitchens

 

Charcoal Grey

 

Easy Maintenance on Shaker Cabinets

For busy families and professionals, “low-maintenance” is one of the most desired attributes of any kitchen selection. The simplistic design of Shaker doors lends itself to easy sanitization of their surfaces. Without the copious ridges found in more traditional doors, which are known to trap dust, grease residue, and debris, a quick wipe-down cleans Shaker cabinets with minimal effort. If a low-maintenance kitchen design is high on your priority list, we recommend selecting cabinets with a laminate finish. They can take a beating and are not nearly as picky as real wood doors when it comes to cleaning and polishing requirements.

Affordable Shaker Cabinets

Typically, this cabinet door style won’t blow most budgets set aside for the remodeling project. The price point tends to fall right in the middle-range, thanks to their simplistic construction. Not to mention, their aforementioned timelessness makes them a wise investment that is likely to save you the cost of a future remodel, as the design trend tides change year by year.Regardless of your design style, they will stylishly coordinate with the look you want and endure the test of time.

Thinking About New Cabinets?

Whether you think this style fits your needs or you have your own idea that suits you more, our cabinet experts near you will be there to make it happen. Thanks to our dedication and professionals trained to use some of the finest industry practices, you’ll get personalized cabinets that will boast durability and aesthetics. Our experts will help you choose colors and materials that will complement the rest of the design.

Call us today or fill out an online form to get an absolutely no obligation home consultation and quote and don’t forget we do it all from floor to ceiling and everything in between for your kitchen renovation including wall removal.

SET UP A FREE QUOTE

 

Todays Designer Kitchens Todays-Designer-Kitchens-1.1-pncyjpjsim7we8fxhed51bbdc6cr22xivn6oavtb54 Why Shaker Style Cabinets Work in Most Kitchens

The team of professionals at Today’s Designer Kitchens are dedicated to bringing high quality full service kitchen renovations that are affordable beautiful and functional.

We undertake work in all scopes and budget ranges and provide a full service kitchen solution from floor to ceiling.

Visit Our Showroom M-F 10 am-4 pm.

Address: 239 Carlton St Suite #1, St. Catharines, ON L2R 1S1

Phone: 905-641-2284

There are so many kitchen cabinet styles to choose from when renovating but hands down the Shaker style cabinets are the most popular and work in most kitchens perfectly.

Why is Shaker-style cabinetry so popular?

The style has been around for ages (the name comes from the Shaker community) and maintains its appeal with a simple look that has a look and feel of the homemade wood furniture made in the past with its plain rail and stile construction.

(below, a classic white shaker kitchen cabinet door)

Todays Designer Kitchens 01-door-white-shaker Why Shaker Style Cabinets Work in Most Kitchens

Contemporary Kitchen with White Shaker Style Cabinets

There are several reasons shaker cabinetry works with any home décor:

Classic Look

Shaker cabinets are one of the tenets of a timeless kitchen design that will never become outdated. The simplicity of shaker doors—almost like a flat-panel door but with a slightly raised border—are a large part of their appeal. It’s a basic and straight forward look, with just enough detail to provide depth and interest.

Todays Designer Kitchens Slide1-1 Why Shaker Style Cabinets Work in Most Kitchens

Can be Stylized Easily

Shaker cabinet doors are used for both traditional cooking areas and modern ones. Traditionalists appreciate the timelessness of their appearance and can opt to use slightly more ornate door handles and drawer pulls if they’re looking for more detail. Modernists, on the other hand, enjoy their clean lines. A transitional kitchen design will often implement Shaker doors as a way to marry the simplicity of a modern design with decorative columns or accoutrement on the kitchen island, the hood or elsewhere.

Shaker Cabinets Look Great in Any Colour
Shaker doors take paint or colored laminate very well, and both can produce gorgeous results to help you achieve your desired design style. On the flip side, the broad panels on the door serve to emphasize the beautiful natural wood grain patterns, so wood stains are a deservedly popular finish choice as well.

Todays Designer Kitchens SCG-modern-kitchen-view-2-1-1024x525 Why Shaker Style Cabinets Work in Most Kitchens

Charcoal Grey

Easy Maintenance on Shaker Cabinets
For busy families and professionals, “low-maintenance” is one of the most desired attributes of any kitchen selection. The simplistic design of Shaker doors lends itself to easy sanitization of their surfaces. Without the copious ridges found in more traditional doors, which are known to trap dust, grease residue, and debris, a quick wipe-down cleans Shaker cabinets with minimal effort. If a low-maintenance kitchen design is high on your priority list, we recommend selecting cabinets with a laminate finish. They can take a beating and are not nearly as picky as real wood doors when it comes to cleaning and polishing requirements.

Affordable Shaker Cabinets
Typically, this cabinet door style won’t blow most budgets set aside for the remodeling project. The price point tends to fall right in the middle-range, thanks to their simplistic construction. Not to mention, their aforementioned timelessness makes them a wise investment that is likely to save you the cost of a future remodel, as the design trend tides change year by year.Regardless of your design style, they will stylishly coordinate with the look you want and endure the test of time.

Thinking About New Cabinets?
Whether you think this style fits your needs or you have your own idea that suits you more, our cabinet experts near you will be there to make it happen. Thanks to our dedication and professionals trained to use some of the finest industry practices, you’ll get personalized cabinets that will boast durability and aesthetics. Our experts will help you choose colors and materials that will complement the rest of the design.

Call us today or fill out an online form to get an absolutely no obligation home consultation and quote and don’t forget we do it all from floor to ceiling and everything in between for your kitchen renovation including wall removal.

 

Todays Designer Kitchens Todays-Designer-Kitchens-1.1-pncyjpjsim7we8fxhed51bbdc6cr22xivn6oavtb54 Why Shaker Style Cabinets Work in Most Kitchens

The team of professionals at Today’s Designer Kitchens are dedicated to bringing high quality full service kitchen renovations that are affordable beautiful and functional.

We undertake work in all scopes and budget ranges and provide a full service kitchen solution from floor to ceiling.

Visit Our Showroom M-F 10 am-4 pm.

Address: 239 Carlton St Suite #1, St. Catharines, ON L2R 1S1

Phone: 905-641-2284

There are so many kitchen cabinet styles to choose from when renovating but hands down the Shaker style cabinets are the most popular and work in most kitchens perfectly.

Why is Shaker-style cabinetry so popular?

The style has been around for ages (the name comes from the Shaker community) and maintains its appeal with a simple look that has a look and feel of the homemade wood furniture made in the past with its plain rail and stile construction.

(below, a classic white shaker kitchen cabinet door)

Todays Designer Kitchens 01-door-white-shaker Why Shaker Style Cabinets Work in Most Kitchens

Contemporary Kitchen with White Shaker Style Cabinets

There are several reasons shaker cabinetry works with any home décor:

Classic Look

Shaker cabinets are one of the tenets of a timeless kitchen design that will never become outdated. The simplicity of shaker doors—almost like a flat-panel door but with a slightly raised border—are a large part of their appeal. It’s a basic and straight forward look, with just enough detail to provide depth and interest.

Todays Designer Kitchens Slide1-1 Why Shaker Style Cabinets Work in Most Kitchens

Can be Stylized Easily

Shaker cabinet doors are used for both traditional cooking areas and modern ones. Traditionalists appreciate the timelessness of their appearance and can opt to use slightly more ornate door handles and drawer pulls if they’re looking for more detail. Modernists, on the other hand, enjoy their clean lines. A transitional kitchen design will often implement Shaker doors as a way to marry the simplicity of a modern design with decorative columns or accoutrement on the kitchen island, the hood or elsewhere.

Shaker Cabinets Look Great in Any Colour
Shaker doors take paint or colored laminate very well, and both can produce gorgeous results to help you achieve your desired design style. On the flip side, the broad panels on the door serve to emphasize the beautiful natural wood grain patterns, so wood stains are a deservedly popular finish choice as well.

Todays Designer Kitchens SCG-modern-kitchen-view-2-1-1024x525 Why Shaker Style Cabinets Work in Most Kitchens

Charcoal Grey

Easy Maintenance on Shaker Cabinets
For busy families and professionals, “low-maintenance” is one of the most desired attributes of any kitchen selection. The simplistic design of Shaker doors lends itself to easy sanitization of their surfaces. Without the copious ridges found in more traditional doors, which are known to trap dust, grease residue, and debris, a quick wipe-down cleans Shaker cabinets with minimal effort. If a low-maintenance kitchen design is high on your priority list, we recommend selecting cabinets with a laminate finish. They can take a beating and are not nearly as picky as real wood doors when it comes to cleaning and polishing requirements.

Affordable Shaker Cabinets
Typically, this cabinet door style won’t blow most budgets set aside for the remodeling project. The price point tends to fall right in the middle-range, thanks to their simplistic construction. Not to mention, their aforementioned timelessness makes them a wise investment that is likely to save you the cost of a future remodel, as the design trend tides change year by year.Regardless of your design style, they will stylishly coordinate with the look you want and endure the test of time.

Thinking About New Cabinets?
Whether you think this style fits your needs or you have your own idea that suits you more, our cabinet experts near you will be there to make it happen. Thanks to our dedication and professionals trained to use some of the finest industry practices, you’ll get personalized cabinets that will boast durability and aesthetics. Our experts will help you choose colors and materials that will complement the rest of the design.

Call us today or fill out an online form to get an absolutely no obligation home consultation and quote and don’t forget we do it all from floor to ceiling and everything in between for your kitchen renovation including wall removal.

 

Todays Designer Kitchens Todays-Designer-Kitchens-1.1-pncyjpjsim7we8fxhed51bbdc6cr22xivn6oavtb54 Why Shaker Style Cabinets Work in Most Kitchens

The team of professionals at Today’s Designer Kitchens are dedicated to bringing high quality full service kitchen renovations that are affordable beautiful and functional.

We undertake work in all scopes and budget ranges and provide a full service kitchen solution from floor to ceiling.

Visit Our Showroom M-F 10 am-4 pm.

Address: 239 Carlton St Suite #1, St. Catharines, ON L2R 1S1

Phone: 905-641-2284

There are so many kitchen cabinet styles to choose from when renovating but hands down the Shaker style cabinets are the most popular and work in most kitchens perfectly.

 

Why is Shaker-style cabinetry so popular?

The style has been around for ages (the name comes from the Shaker community) and maintains its appeal with a simple look that has a look and feel of the homemade wood furniture made in the past with its plain rail and stile construction.

(below, a classic white shaker kitchen cabinet door)

Todays Designer Kitchens 01-door-white-shaker Why Shaker Style Cabinets Work in Most Kitchens

Contemporary Kitchen with White Shaker Style Cabinets

There are several reasons shaker cabinetry works with any home décor:

Classic Look

Shaker cabinets are one of the tenets of a timeless kitchen design that will never become outdated. The simplicity of shaker doors—almost like a flat-panel door but with a slightly raised border—are a large part of their appeal. It’s a basic and straight forward look, with just enough detail to provide depth and interest.

Todays Designer Kitchens Slide1-1 Why Shaker Style Cabinets Work in Most Kitchens
Shaker cabinet doors are used for both traditional cooking areas and modern ones. Traditionalists appreciate the timelessness of their appearance and can opt to use slightly more ornate door handles and drawer pulls if they’re looking for more detail. Modernists, on the other hand, enjoy their clean lines. A transitional kitchen design will often implement Shaker doors as a way to marry the simplicity of a modern design with decorative columns or accoutrement on the kitchen island, the hood or elsewhere.

Shaker Cabinets Look Great in Any Colour
Shaker doors take paint or colored laminate very well, and both can produce gorgeous results to help you achieve your desired design style. On the flip side, the broad panels on the door serve to emphasize the beautiful natural wood grain patterns, so wood stains are a deservedly popular finish choice as well.

 

Todays Designer Kitchens SCG-modern-kitchen-view-2-1-1024x525 Why Shaker Style Cabinets Work in Most Kitchens

 

Charcoal Grey

 

Easy Maintenance on Shaker Cabinets
For busy families and professionals, “low-maintenance” is one of the most desired attributes of any kitchen selection. The simplistic design of Shaker doors lends itself to easy sanitization of their surfaces. Without the copious ridges found in more traditional doors, which are known to trap dust, grease residue, and debris, a quick wipe-down cleans Shaker cabinets with minimal effort. If a low-maintenance kitchen design is high on your priority list, we recommend selecting cabinets with a laminate finish. They can take a beating and are not nearly as picky as real wood doors when it comes to cleaning and polishing requirements.

Affordable Shaker Cabinets
Typically, this cabinet door style won’t blow most budgets set aside for the remodeling project. The price point tends to fall right in the middle-range, thanks to their simplistic construction. Not to mention, their aforementioned timelessness makes them a wise investment that is likely to save you the cost of a future remodel, as the design trend tides change year by year.Regardless of your design style, they will stylishly coordinate with the look you want and endure the test of time.

Thinking About New Cabinets?
Whether you think this style fits your needs or you have your own idea that suits you more, our cabinet experts near you will be there to make it happen. Thanks to our dedication and professionals trained to use some of the finest industry practices, you’ll get personalized cabinets that will boast durability and aesthetics. Our experts will help you choose colors and materials that will complement the rest of the design.

Call us today or fill out an online form to get an absolutely no obligation home consultation and quote and don’t forget we do it all from floor to ceiling and everything in between for your kitchen renovation including wall removal.

 

Todays Designer Kitchens Todays-Designer-Kitchens-1.1-pncyjpjsim7we8fxhed51bbdc6cr22xivn6oavtb54 Why Shaker Style Cabinets Work in Most Kitchens

The team of professionals at Today’s Designer Kitchens are dedicated to bringing high quality full service kitchen renovations that are affordable beautiful and functional.

We undertake work in all scopes and budget ranges and provide a full service kitchen solution from floor to ceiling.

Visit Our Showroom M-F 10 am-4 pm.

Address: 239 Carlton St Suite #1, St. Catharines, ON L2R 1S1

Phone: 905-641-2284

All About Under Cabinet Lighting

Todays Designer Kitchens Todays-Designer-Kitchens-2000x1200 All About Under Cabinet Lighting

Lighting is so important in the kitchen and today we will talk all about the essential under cabinet lighting.

Many people suffer from inadequate kitchen lighting. In a room as functional as the kitchen, lighting can make more of an impact on your productivity than you may expect. and it serves many more functions as well.

What is the best lighting for a kitchen?
As we like to say, “kitchen lighting should never be an afterthought,” and under-cabinet lighting is one of the brightest ideas of them all. Before you hire one of the best kitchen remodelers near you to help you with this addition, let’s see what this solution has to offer:

Under Cabinet Lighting
The goal of comprehensive cooking area lighting plans is to provide three types of lighting:

Task
Safety
Ambiance

Under-cabinet lighting offers all-of-the-above.

Task lighting
By using brighter lights, gimbal fixtures (that can be angled as needed) and other-task-oriented lighting options, you can make your under-cabinet lights part of the task lighting plan for things like food prep.

Safety lighting
The combination of ultra-efficient LED lights, lower-wattage and/or dimmable lighting options make under-cabinet lighting serve as safety lighting when the chopping is complete and all the knives are placed back in the rack or drawer.

The dimmed lights are ideal for allowing passage into and through the kitchen in the after-hours, and wee hours, of the night and morning.

Todays Designer Kitchens SSW-1024x576 All About Under Cabinet Lighting

Ambient lighting
Ambient lighting is all about creating a mood. That can be a sleepier, cozier mood for a wake-up time in the morning, maybe it’s a more romantic glow for evening—or ambient light may even involve fun colors that augment the kitchen’s color scheme you’ve chosen for parties and just-for-fun.

Targeted hood lighting
Whether you’re simmering a pot of soup or just looking to infuse a little atmosphere in the kitchen, hood lights provide ambiance and light in a work area. A proper hood light transfers light directly onto the stove so you’re not leaning over a hot flame or pot.

Want to Know More About Renovating a Kitchen with Under Cabinet Lighting?
Want assistance choosing the best under-cabinet lighting plan for your kitchen design? We’re experienced kitchen contractors that know how to ensure you get one of the best and most affordable kitchen remodelings near you. We’ll use our experience and tried-and-tested methods to achieve optimum results you’ll be fully satisfied with.

Call us or schedule a free in-home consultation today for lighting and all your FULL kitchen renovation needs in the Niagara area.

To get started, set up your FREE home consultation and estimate today!

Kitchen Trends – What’s In What’s Out

Todays Designer Kitchens Slide4 Kitchen Trends - What's In What's Out

Kitchen Trends - What's In What's Out Now

It is exciting to renovate a kitchen and if this is your goal in 2023 you’ll be interested to learn about the latest kitchen trends and what’s in and what’s out according to what we’ve seen out there with our clients.

Remember nothing is off limits.  Everyone has their own personal sense of style, however lots of folks find it helpful to get a sense of what is happening in the market so here we go…

Outdated Kitchen Trends for 2023

1. Super White Kitchens

First the good news, all-white kitchens aren’t a total no-no, so long as you bring in personality through other design choices in the space. That means if you do choose white cabinets and counters, make sure to put your focus on layering different textures and other interesting elements within the design.

That may be putting consideration into the material of the window treatments, adding color with cushions to a daybed or dining chairs, adding interesting art to the wall, even wallpaper.  Anything is a possibility if you love it and it breaks up the total white look.

2. Matching Everything

There is a big trend now to mix and match stainless steel, black and bronze colours on hardware.  There is no hard and fast rule anymore that everything has to match perfectly.

The same goes for the cabinetry itself and it is often we have clients wanting us to put one colour on the top level of cabinets and another on the bottom. 

Mixing everything (within reason) can really go a long way to make a kitchen feel homey, warm and inviting PLUS it gives you a lot of opportunity to get super creative. 

3. Mosaic Tile Backsplashes

Once all the rage, mosaic backsplashes are usually the exception and not the norm in today’s design landscape. There are so many choices available including glass, metal or even marble tile. Another gorgeous idea is exposed brick, mirrors, the list is unlimited, but ultimately the end product will be easy to care for and a great neutral backdrop to other elements in the kitchen when done right.

4. Overdone Lighting

Some of the old design ideas with lighting included the classic 3 pendants over the island.  However, this is often overkill for brightness and often 1 centrally placed or two is more than enough.

Another aspect of lighting that is fazing out is tons of potlights.  A kitchen can be TOO bright when many (especially LED) potlights get installed and over illuminate a space.

5.  Islands

With the open concept design idea in mind, islands in kitchens were once thought to be necessary in a good renovation.  

Times have changed however and we see many people go for lots of counterspace in the regular kitchen area and bypass the island altogether as it does take up so much floor space and isn’t always a necessary piece (especially in small kitchens).

 

Todays Designer Kitchens scggalley Kitchen Trends - What's In What's Out

 

What’s In for Kitchens in 2023

1. Colour

Rich vibrant hues are back on track in kitchens.  Even as part of a single accent wall they add so much personality to a kitchen and are easily switchable.

When it comes to cabinets warm earthy tones are hot.  Think rich coffee Java, or a sparkling grey tone.

These colours work well with everything and are loved by many.

2. Island Substitutes

Vintage tables repurposed, or even actual island cabinetry on castors are choices that many consider when renovating because they add to much flexibility to a kitchen space as well as have design impact.

These islands can also be adjusted for lower seating which is very appealing for comfort.

3. Imperfect Countertops 

Having counters that are made of natural materials are definitely making a comeback and with that an appreciation of their “loved” look over time.

Think butcher block or even marble.  They gain a rich patina over time that is very cozy and desirable in today’s modern kitchen.

4. Creativity

At the end of the day the kitchen renovation has evolved into something that is very versatile and no longer follows hard and fast rules of aesthetics.  

If you have a kitchen in the Niagara Region and are interested in creating your own dream space, we welcome you to contact us for a FREE home consultation and quote today!

 

Todays Designer Kitchens qtq80-bfkWR4-1024x683 Kitchen Trends - What's In What's Out
Todays Designer Kitchens kitchen-gf1dc1516a_640 Kitchen Trends - What's In What's Out
Todays Designer Kitchens scggalley-odo5q6y7a0zybgsbo0b0bhnnfyvtrofcm9vvmt9ed0 Kitchen Trends - What's In What's Out
Todays Designer Kitchens Todays-Designer-Kitchens-1.1-pncyjpjsim7we8fxhed51bbdc6cr22xivn6oavtb54 Kitchen Trends - What's In What's Out

The team of professionals at Today’s Designer Kitchens are dedicated to bringing high quality full service kitchen renovations that are affordable beautiful and functional.

We undertake work in all scopes and budget ranges and provide a full service kitchen solution from floor to ceiling.

Visit Our Showroom M-F 10 am-5 pm.

Address: 239 Carlton St Suite #1, St. Catharines, ON L2R 1S1

Phone: 905-641-2284

Creating a Bar Area in Your Home That You Love

Todays Designer Kitchens Espresso-bar-1 Creating a Bar Area in Your Home That You Love

Creating a bar area in your home that you love and is functional can be a fantastic idea if you enjoy entertaining and want to have options.

If this is something you have been thinking about and do not know where to start, we have some tips to share that we have learned over many years of cabinet and bar area installations.

Determine your Needs

Think about how frequently you entertain and what that normally looks like. Do you have large family parties with guests of all ages, or smaller gatherings with close friends? This will help determine the amount of space you may want to dedicate to entertaining.

Todays Designer Kitchens living-room-gef24088f0_640 Creating a Bar Area in Your Home That You Love

Location

Depending on the frequency and size of gatherings you host, where do you want the bar to be located? Sometimes a basement is a great casual space that you can create a dedicated and large area for entertaining purposes.

Sometimes making the kitchen a more transitional space (think bar stools at island, layered lighting and even a bar cart on wheels) can be a fantastic way to maximize the use of your space that you already have.

Think Storage

Having dedicated cabinets for bar essentials is an important part of making entertaining easy. Think soft close cabinets, drawers for bar utensils, easy access areas for waste bins and open shelving above your bar space or glass paneled cabinets to display your assortment of glassware… It is eye-catching and will really elevate the look of your bar space!

Todays Designer Kitchens stepcharcoalgrey-with-island-1024x620 Creating a Bar Area in Your Home That You Love

Think Wash Up

Gone are the days when a super small bar sink was the norm in a bar area. We now see lots of customers opting for large drop sinks or even double sinks because they look great and are so practical when hosting groups.

Either way, a proper wash up and disposal area are crucial to a great bar.

Lighting

Being able to set the mood is a top consideration when entertaining so dimmers, under the counter lighting and even the soft glow of lamps placed around a bar area can be a very pleasing addition. Island pendant lamps can serve well in this department also.

Make it Personal

Bar areas are a great area to add unique personal touches with pictures, favourite art, signs, general conversation items, etc. These touches will make your bar your own and add much to the ambience for yourself and guests.

Todays Designer Kitchens bar Creating a Bar Area in Your Home That You Love

Seating

Figure out the style of seating you love (bar height, stools, chairs, colour, etc). This is an important consideration for counter top and space planning PLUS it adds to your personal sense of style.

Entertainment

Consider allowing for television space if you enjoy entertaining around sporting events or other “group watches”. If this is something you would like to do, it is always best to establish that in the beginning so the design can be made around it.

Todays Designer Kitchens SSW-1024x576 Creating a Bar Area in Your Home That You Love

Refrigeration

There are many sizes and types of refrigeration for your bar needs. A classic bar fridge (although practical in its small size) may not suit your needs if you have larger groups with their limited capacity.

Consider a fuller sized fridge if you have the space and depending on your party needs, one with an ice cube maker may be a handy add on.

Love Coffee? Consider a Coffee Bar

Consider a coffee bar. Coffee bars have become very popular amongst the coffee lover, and now with so many options available for making your favorite brews at home, a coffee bar is a great way to elevate a part of your daily routine. When entertaining, guests will love having a great cup of coffee to relax with in your home.

Final Thoughts

If you are someone who entertains and are thinking about creating a special space, the team at Today’s Designer Kitchens has you covered with our gorgeous solutions. Did you know that we can customize all of our affordable stock cabinetry to fit almost any space?

From a small section in your kitchen to a dedicated wet bar area, our cabinetry is multifunctional and is the perfect storage solution for your entertaining needs. It creates space for your beverages, and many other entertaining essentials such as snacks, or games for an amazing day or night!

No matter how you choose to entertain, our design team is here to help you fit an at-home bar into your living space!

Get started today with a free estimate from one of our installation experts and find out the possibilities today.

Todays Designer Kitchens site-icon Creating a Bar Area in Your Home That You Love

Today’s Designer Kitchens is a family owned company located in St. Catharines, ON that can expertly and affordably bring your home remodeling dreams to reality. We service the entire Niagara Region.

We specialize in the renovation, home improvements and kitchen and bath industries, providing top quality products and services at competitive prices.

We are committed to ensuring complete customer satisfaction with the service and quality we offer with a streamlined process and fast turnarounds times.

We provide free home estimates and undertake work in all scopes and budget ranges.

SALES, MATERIALS AND INSTALLATIONS

Whatever your budget requirements or available space, our team can provide innovative and cost-effective solutions that will add to the value of your home, as well as increase comfort and efficiency.

From granite countertops and kitchen islands to cabinetry solutions, we offer unmatched value for the money on both materials and installations.

OUR OFFICES AND SHOWROOM

Todays Designer Kitchens show-room-1024x683 Creating a Bar Area in Your Home That You Love

Our showroom is open Monday Through Friday 10 am-4 pm or by appointment.

We can be reached by phone: 905-641-2284, or by filling out the contact form HERE

We look forward to assisting you in bringing your renovation project to life.

Kitchen Design – Four Things to Avoid

Todays Designer Kitchens Java-full-kitchen-image-2000x1200 Kitchen Design - Four Things to Avoid

Kitchen design is an important first step before renovating and it takes a lot of careful planning, so, here are four things to avoid in that process to ensure a great outcome.

STORAGE

Storage is priority in a kitchen and ensures that it is functional and organized.

When designing a kitchen, it is crucial to not skimp on storage and utilize as much space as your home will allow. A kitchen lacking storage will become tricky to manage and you don’t want to worry about finding a spot for your most-used kitchen items. Especially in smaller kitchens, making use of all space is going to be incredibly important to ensure all of your items are easily stored.

Todays Designer Kitchens pantry-g59a357789_640 Kitchen Design - Four Things to Avoid

WORK TRIANGLES

There are established ways to set up a kitchen called work triangles within a kitchen layout (see our post HERE). Work triangles give an easy flow to all the things you need in this space. Consider appliance placement, and how this flow will affect your basic kitchen functions. Your sink, stove, and refrigerator appliances should be free of obstruction and placed in such a way that allows free movement from each. Placing the three properly forms the kitchen triangle, which should never be dismissed.

Todays Designer Kitchens BW-new-1024x576 Kitchen Design - Four Things to Avoid

COUNTERS

Even if you think you don’t need that much counter space, remember how quickly our counters can become cluttered with other everyday items such as coffee makers, toasters, and other smaller appliances. How much prep space does that leave you for actually preparing your meals? Not taking this into consideration can leave you feeling cluttered and disorganized. If possible, try to allow for as much counter space as possible in the design of your kitchen. If an island is not an option, consider an additional corner of cabinets and counters to allow for more storage.

EXPERT ADVICE

Todays Designer Kitchens qtq80-YlZ5PJ-1024x683 Kitchen Design - Four Things to Avoid

Yes, you may think you know exactly what you want for your kitchen, but, there are many details that can be quickly overlooked when not working with an experienced designer/installer that can cost you both time AND money.

At Today’s Designer Kitchens, we not only offer FREE home consultations before your kitchen renovation, but one of our experts will also make suggestions to ensure a great outcome.

No matter the size or budget of your kitchen, we are here to take it on and ensure that no detail is overlooked. We have remodeled hundreds of kitchens and our expertise will help you get what you want and need. From measurement to great communication our team ensures that your kitchen project will be amazing with our streamlined design, supply and install process.

We are booking now for fall, so please reach out and schedule your home consultation today.

Todays Designer Kitchens Todays-Designer-Kitchens-1.1-pncyjpjsim7we8fxhed51bbdc6cr22xivn6oavtb54 Kitchen Design - Four Things to Avoid
The team of professionals at Today’s Designer Kitchens are dedicated to bringing high quality full service kitchen renovations that are affordable beautiful and functional.

We undertake work in all scopes and budget ranges and provide  a full service kitchen solution from floor to ceiling.

Visit Our Showroom M-F 10 am-5 pm.

Address: 239 Carlton St Suite #1, St. Catharines, ON L2R 1S1

Phone: 905-641-2284

How Kitchen Renovations Make Better Use of Space

Todays Designer Kitchens White-kitchen-new How Kitchen Renovations Make Better Use of Space

A kitchen renovation has many advantages in a home and one of them is that it can make a better use of the space that you have.

Even if your kitchen isn’t outdated, its design and layout might not be making the most of the space.

Below, a wall removal opens up the space in this client’s home and makes it appear so much brighter and larger.

Todays Designer Kitchens ws How Kitchen Renovations Make Better Use of Space

There are many considerations when it comes to good kitchen design, including the layout of the counter space, cabinet placement, and wall and floor use. So if your kitchen is driving you crazy– regardless of how old it is– it’s not you. It’s the layout.

Below, reorganization of wiring and plumbing and installation of a triple panel window transformed this space to a highly functioning kitchen.

Todays Designer Kitchens Java-full-kitchen-image-1024x576 How Kitchen Renovations Make Better Use of Space
Java Kitchen

Here’s what happens when you undergo a kitchen renovation with a functional redesign in mind:

-You’ll gain more storage space and cabinets (sometimes bigger cabinets, too!) that make your kitchen feel bigger, even if you don’t actually increase the square footage.

-You can incorporate new, sleeker appliances, making your kitchen “smart” and easier to use.

-The flow of your kitchen will change with the layout. You’ll free up counter, floor, and wall space, and shift from a cluttered feeling to a fresh, open, clean look.

-You can remove walls, and add windows and doors, to make the kitchen feel more spacious.

If you are ready to make the most of your home’s space and need a kitchen renovation, we welcome you to contact us at Today’s Designer Kitchen for an expert opinion and free estimate. One call does it all with our experienced team.

Kitchen Design Trends for 2022

Todays Designer Kitchens Bermuda-white-and-midnight-blue-V2-2000x1200 Kitchen Design Trends for 2022

We love watching kitchen design trends for 2022 and incorporating them into the renovation projects we do  and here are some of our favourites!

Keep it Natural

The overall aesthetic of using natural elements has a lot of appeal. Natural elements such as wood-toned cabinetry, mixed metal hardware, and marble countertops pair together to bring this trend to life. With more and more people working from home permanently, it’s no surprise the choice of a design that will deliver a calm atmosphere is the go-to trend.

Below, this gorgeous Java kitchen is rich on style and oozes natural wood tones.

Todays Designer Kitchens Java-full-kitchen-image-scaled Kitchen Design Trends for 2022
Java Kitchen

Colour

White and black kitchens have dominated the market for many years and still have their place, however, colour has emerged as a new favorites. We are seeing bold bright shades and even deep, dark moody kitchens.

Shades of blue is a perfect example as seen below in the Midnight Blue cabinet collection.

Todays Designer Kitchens Slide4 Kitchen Design Trends for 2022

Sleek And Modern

Hidden pantries, integrated appliances, and sleek, clean countertops. The modern kitchen has been around for some time now but is leaning more towards the seamless and clean look for the new year. Accessorizing with clean hardware like this bronze single lever tap accentuates the clean style that many of our clients want in their kitchens!

Todays Designer Kitchens mix-300x291 Kitchen Design Trends for 2022

Vintage and Retro Vibes

Many of the kitchens we do can have a dramatic transformation by the accessories chosen during the finishing touches of the renovation.

For example, handles and lighting are fantastic ways to add a vintage or retro look to your space and yet easily changed out if you get tired of them down the road. 🙂

Below the classic Globe Lighting adds amazing ambience to this kitchen island.

Todays Designer Kitchens cropped-cropped-SSW-and-FG-kitchen-1-scaled-1-1-1024x614 Kitchen Design Trends for 2022

Below, these interesting gold tone handles put the wow factor in any cabinetry style.

Todays Designer Kitchens gold-handle Kitchen Design Trends for 2022

At Today’s Designer Kitchens, whether you are looking for a traditional style or an up-and-coming style, our team is at the cutting edge of the trends, the classics and giving you great advice.

We are here to help you choose the design that will work best in your space, and help make your kitchen renovation dreams a reality.

Please contact us for a FREE in home consultation today by filling out the form below OR call us M-F at: 905-641-2284

Contact Us

 

 

 

 

How to Improve Kitchen Workflow when Renovating

Todays Designer Kitchens kitchen-2022 How to Improve Kitchen Workflow when Renovating

One of the most important – and often overlooked – benefits of renovating a kitchen is the improved workflow that can come from a new design.

Although a kitchen can be a great place to entertain, its primary function is to make meals and this is where a well-executed workflow will come in handy. Here are our top ideas to make that happen!

  1. Make a Floor Plan

A spacious, well-thought out floor plan will help to create an ideal workspace for your kitchen. Some questions and things to consider when laying out your new kitchen floor plan include:

-How often do you plan to cook?
-What types of meal do you plan to prepare?
-Do the meals you cook the most require a lot of counter and prep space?
-Do you cook alone or with someone helping you?
-Are you short or do you struggle to reach items on high shelves?
-In addition to preparing meals, do you use your kitchen for entertaining, or other family gatherings?

With the answers to the questions, and the right kitchen contractor on the job, you can begin to form a kitchen floor plan that is not only efficient and functional but will work for you in all aspects of your life.

  1. Direct Traffic Away from the Work Area

One of the biggest problems in a kitchen workflow is foot traffic through the area where the primary work needs to be done. One of the most popular ways to help divert traffic is through the addition of an island or peninsula counter. Islands help to segregate the social areas of the kitchen from the work areas, while adding a decorative and functional element to the room.

Todays Designer Kitchens Small-midnight-blue-kitchen-1024x576 How to Improve Kitchen Workflow when Renovating
A Midnight Blue Kitchen Island by Today’s Designer Kitchens

A great option to consider for improving the workflow of a small kitchen is to add a mobile island (on casters) that can be moved into place when needed and stores away when not needed.

  1. Designate Work Zones

Once your floor plan and traffic areas have been laid out, you can begin to determine the best places for your work zones to reside. Areas for food preparation, cooking, and cleanup should be placed where they make the most sense to you and work with your cooking habits. This “work triangle” should be the starting point for incorporating other aspects of room, including breakfast bars, microwave areas and coffee stations.

Todays Designer Kitchens UKitchen How to Improve Kitchen Workflow when Renovating
A sample u shape kitchen workflow

The first thing you should consider is where you want your sink to be. Most people spend twice the amount of time at the sink as they do in from of the stove while preparing food. Something else to consider is the addition of second prep sink located in an island. This can help out greatly if you are a family or more then one cook. Talk to your kitchen contractor about ways to maximize your counter space and where it makes the most sense for your appliances to fit in.

  1. Regularly Used Items

Is your trashcan stored under your sink or against a wall in the line of traffic? If so, you may want to consider moving it.

Are your utensils and other kitchen items that you use regularly in an easy access space?

Todays Designer Kitchens drawers-2022 How to Improve Kitchen Workflow when Renovating

Consider adding dedicated pullout bins for trash and well placed drawers with compartments for other high use items in places that the workflow will not be interrupted.

  1. Create Snack Centers Outside of the Work Area

Another thing to consider when setting up your floor plan is your family’s occasional before meal snacking. While you can do your best to keep traffic out of the kitchen, if your refrigerator is located within your work zone you are bound to have grazers wondering in. Try placing the refrigerator at the end of a set of cabinets or near a door to keep snackers and browsers out from underfoot. If that’s not possible, consider installing a beverage refrigerator in an island facing out from your work zone.

Todays Designer Kitchens fog3 How to Improve Kitchen Workflow when Renovating
A Fog Grey kitchen has the fridge placed outside of the work zone for easy access
  1. Select Multitasking Appliances

Most kitchens today contain at least half a dozen appliances designed to make your life easier, while still taking up more and more counter space. If you are looking to simplify your kitchen without loosing any of the functionality of your appliances, you may want to consider multitasking appliances. Steam/convection ovens and microwave/convection ovens are two examples that combine function while downsizing space. Also consider storing your less frequently used appliance in a pantry or storage area instead of on the counter.

Wrap Up

Improved kitchen workflow can provide homeowners with a greater sense of happiness when it comes to preparing meals for themselves and their families. It creates an atmosphere of efficiency and can save time.

If you are considering a kitchen renovation, our build team will work with you to develop a highly efficient, functional and, of course, beautiful floor plan for your new kitchen. We design, supply and install everything for peace of mind renovations.

Contact us for a FREE home estimate today. Call 905-641-2284 or fill out a contact form online.

Space Efficient Kitchen Design

Todays Designer Kitchens cropped-P-37-SSW-kitchen-with-SCG-island-and-rangehood-2-scaled-1 Space Efficient Kitchen Design

All great kitchens designs share a common characteristic—they are space-efficient.

If your kitchen isn’t well designed, every task, from cooking to cleaning to socializing, can be frustrating. Space-saving kitchens maximize the space you have and will look and function well.

If you are considering renovating your kitchen, now is the time to plan ahead and consider these design tips to maximize every inch that you have.

Increase Vertical Space.

Instead of building out, try building up. Consider stacked cabinets and/or tall cabinets. Glass inserts in cabinets can also add an illusion of space in a kitchen.

Consider hanging utensils, or wall-mounted spice and knife racks which use wall space instead of counter space which eliminates clutter.

Todays Designer Kitchens qtq80-0miS94-1024x686 Space Efficient Kitchen Design

Kitchen Island

Kitchen islands can add extra cabinetry, countertop space, preparation and cooking surfaces, etc. They can even house a second sink, oven, dishwasher, or whatever else you need. If you don’t have room for an island and don’t want to expand the space, you can always use a mobile island.

Todays Designer Kitchens Bermuda-white-and-midnight-blue-V1-1-1024x576 Space Efficient Kitchen Design

Two-tiered islands are also a consideration for a dining area option that could eliminate completely an extra dining table with chairs if desired, maximizing kitchen floor space.

Appliances

Buy quality appliances. More modern appliances tend to be more compact—not to mention more energy-efficient and attractive—and can help you save space in your kitchen.

Install a top-bottom fridge and freezer, not a side-by-side model. Side-by-side refrigerators and freezers not only are less energy-efficient, but they also take up more space.

Paint

Use light paint colours that will add airiness and space in perception of the room.

Whatever colour you do use, consider mimicking the cabinet colour from the top of the cabinet to the ceiling to create the illusion of height in the ceiling.

Lighting

Todays Designer Kitchens off-white-w-1024x768 Space Efficient Kitchen Design

Install bright white potlights in the ceiling with dimmers. Potlights bring the ceiling height up visually, are great for task lighting and can create ambient lighting when dimmed.

Chairs

Use chairs without arms. You may not think it, but using chairs without arms can save a lot of room around the kitchen table. These are especially helpful in small kitchens where space is extra tight.

Wrap Up

If you are considering a kitchen renovation, our expert team would be pleased to give you a no obligation quote. We design, supply and install in the Niagara Region.

Call: 905-641-2284 or fill out the contact form online for a quick response.

Contact Us!

  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Todays Designer Kitchens site-icon Space Efficient Kitchen Design

Today’s Designer Kitchens is a family owned company located in St. Catharines, ON that can expertly and affordably bring your home remodeling dreams to reality. We service the entire Niagara Region.

We specialize in the renovation, home improvements and kitchen and bath industries, providing top quality products and services at competitive prices.

We are committed to ensuring complete customer satisfaction with the service and quality we offer with a streamlined process and fast turnarounds times.

We provide free home estimates and undertake work in all scopes and budget ranges.





Space Efficient Kitchen Design