How Composite Worktops Can Improve your Kitchen Remodel

Composite countertops are used in most commercial kitchens because of their highly functional surface which hinders bacteria and is easy to clean. Composite is heat-resistant, stain-resistant, and scratch-resistant. If you love to cook – or you love your kitchen – consider installing composite worktops. Here are some ways they can spruce up your kitchen.

Keep an Eco-Friendly Kitchen with Composite Work Surfaces

If you are family and kitchen household are all about low impact and sustainability, composite countertops are the way to go. They do not emit VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) and help reduce toxins in the indoor air. Additionally, they do not release radon gases.

VOCs are present in many household products, such as paints and cleaning products. They are extremely dangerous and can cause nausea, headaches, irritation, and serious damage to the central nervous system.

Composite Worktops are more eco-friendly than traditional counters and they come in a range of colors and styles to match your kitchen’s decor. Take a look at other eco-friendly worktops on Apartment Therapy.

Composite Worktops Add Durability to Your Kitchen

Composite worktops are extremely durable and help cut down on maintenance over the years. They are more flexible and harder than natural stone. You can cut vegetables or meat on them without worrying about damaging them. You can also place hot utensils on them without ruining them because they are resistant to heat.

The kitchen countertops are non-porous; if you happen to spill food juices on them, they will not seep in. They are not damaged by corrosive foods such as lemon and vinegar – you’ll never have to worry about permanent stains. Their non-porous nature also makes them very hygienic, they do not harbor bacteria.

Cleaning is a Breeze with Composite Kitchen Countertops

If you’re looking for worktops that are easy to maintain, you won’t be disappointed with composite countertops. They have extremely low demands, and unlike natural stone, don’t need to be polished regularly or to be resealed.

The worktops are the perfect solution to a busy kitchen. They offer stress-free upkeep and can be quickly cleaned with soap and water. If you happen to scratch them, you can sand them and restore their beautiful appearance because their pigment runs through them.

Composite worktops are quickly becoming the worktop of choice. Known for their beauty and durability, they add style and function to a kitchen. Use them in your kitchen remodel and you’ll start spending more time in your kitchen.

For more kitchen ideas on Stagetecture, visit our kitchen and bath category.

How to Add Drama with a Black and White Kitchen

Black and White Can Bring Essential Color Balance

Balance is an important thing to bear in mind as you work with these two colors. It is determined by your style, the size of your kitchen, and how it harmonizes with the rest of the house. Lighting is also crucial in black and white kitchens as it dictates the overall look. Here are some guidelines to help you transform your kitchen.

Make Your Floor Come Alive with Black and White Flooring

Why not bring a dramatic feel to your black and white kitchen flooring styles? You can combine black and white tile to come up with a color palette that’s perfect for your kitchen. A checkered black and white floor is versatile and budget-friendly. It can also enhance different kitchen styles. Take time to choose the right floor tile for your kitchen and you’ll never regret your decision.

Ceramic tiles are ideal for a kitchen floor because they can withstand foot traffic, are easy to install, and last long. Porcelain tiles are durable, rarely absorb water, and are stain resistant. Their only drawback is that they are expensive. Polished granite tiles resist scratching and are suitable for kitchens as they can withstand high traffic. Slate tile is extremely dense and durable while mosaic tile adds both beauty and function. If you want to try something unique, glass tile will do. It offers you a reflective surface unlike any other.

Focus on a Monochromatic Backsplash

An all black or all white tile can help you to create the look you want. For your kitchen backsplash, use subway tiles which offer a wide range of kitchen color ideas. White subway tiles give your kitchen a bright and airy look, making it feel fresh. Their black counterparts generate a powerful contrast, balancing your design. Black and white subway tiles can give a kitchen a timeless look. Consider marble, ceramic, glass, and porcelain backsplash tiles and mosaics for your black and white kitchen. You can also consider using tiles as accents to create the desired look. Paint your kitchen cabinets a different color to make your backsplash vivid. Take a look at these black and white tiles to give you ideas for your kitchen backsplash.

Add Subtle Interest to Walls with Black & White Details

White cabinets with subtle shaker style faced doors or a mosaic wall featuring black and white Spanish tile can all bring subtle interest to your kitchen. The walls are spots where silhouettes, mosaics, and patterns can be exhibited. Wall art and pictures contrasting with the walls bring life to your kitchen. Black and white tiles call attention to the walls, especially if the designs are unique. Black wall clocks, pictures or paintings with black borders, and black countertops accentuate white walls.

Your walls do not have to be painted one plain color. You can play around with black and white hues to create the look you want. Don’t forget about wallpaper with geometrics, floral patterns, or textural grass wallpapers that bring life to your kitchen without even trying.

Use Black and White in Strategic Kitchen Areas for Added Beauty

In case you prefer not to have the two colors together on the walls, floor, or backsplash, use them in different areas of your kitchen. For example, you can paint the walls white and get a black colored table and seats. In addition, don’t restrict yourself to regular black and white colors. You can creatively alter the shades or values of both, causing your kitchen to stand out. Black can be substituted with dark gray and white with ivory.

Black and white kitchens are fascinating. a dull and boring space becomes a sophisticated and attractive one. Use these ideas to create that dream kitchen you have always wanted.

For more kitchen design ideas on Stagetecture, visit our kitchen archives.

How to Creatively Update Your Kitchen Tile this Season

Transform your Kitchen with an Eye-Catching Tile Backsplash

Almost every kitchen requires an easy-to-maintain backsplash. An easy to maintain tile can relate to tile cleaning or to maintenance. The material of choice for backsplashes is tile – and with good reason. It is easy to clean, easy to maintain, and highly resistant to wear and tear. Tile is also preferred because it comes in many designs like glass, metal, ceramic and mosaic. These kitchen tile ideas can also lend inspiration.

To make your backsplash area noticeable, choose a tile that contrasts with the countertop. A mix of patterns or varying colors will rejuvenate your outdated kitchen. But if you prefer a uniform look, stick to one color or pattern. Choose tile for your backsplash area carefully because it will dictate the entire look of your kitchen.

Give Special Attention to your Resilient Tile Floor

The kitchen is among the busiest rooms in the house and its floor handles plenty of traffic. But it is an area that’s often neglected. As you give your kitchen a makeover, look to tile flooring. It offers many design possibilities and can make your kitchen floor come alive.

Installing tile flooring has become a very common trend as tiles resembling natural materials are readily available. Technology enables the creation of tiles mimicking wood, concrete, and stone. Some are waterproof and scratchproof and go well with any space. Wood-look ceramic tile is perfect for kitchens. Take a look at the pros and cons of this resilient floor tile.

Choose the Right Tile for Your Countertop

Your kitchen countertop can make or break your kitchen. It is a focal point in the room as it takes up a lot of space. Choose a countertop tile that adds color and life to your kitchen. You can try out a modern design that will make it stand out. For a simple, uncluttered look, a neutral color like white, ivory, or cream is appropriate.

A tile countertop is resistant to both water and heat. It is easy to install and you can fix it on your own if you wish to save some money. The good news is that you don’t need special tools or knowledge to install tile – unlike other countertop materials. To make sure your tile countertop does not stain, use glazed tile and seal the grout after installation. In addition, choose dark colored grout as light colored grout can be hard to maintain.

Another thing to remember when installing tile on your countertop is to choose classic designs over quick-fleeting trends. Classic tile countertops are likely to stand the test of time and often will keep the value if you plan on selling your home in the future. These green countertop ideas are good ones to try for your kitchen.

Try Adding Kitchen Tile to your Walls

Tile enhances the function and beauty of kitchen walls. Tiled walls are resistant to moisture and are easier to clean than drywall, paint, and other elements. Tile is a great choice for a humid room like a kitchen that is often exposed to cooking splatters. It stands up better to the thorough cleaning often carried out in the room. Install tile between the backsplash area and the wall cabinets to minimize maintenance and to make the place look appealing. Mosaic tile and artisan tile can update your kitchen with pops of color and metallic accents.

Choose wall tile that coordinates with the backsplash tile and grout that complements it. If you want to make the grout lines stand out, choose a dark grout.

Tile is perfect for transforming your outdated kitchen into a modern one. It easily determines the look and feel of the space so you must choose it carefully. To enhance its beauty, decorate it with borders and accents and you’ll be sure to create a unique look.

For more kitchen ideas browse or kitchen archives.

We interviewed Salvatore Rizzo, Owner and Director of De Gustibus Cooking School by Miele at Macy’s Herald Square to find out how he keeps his cooking school clean and ready for food preparation everyday.

Helpful Tips to Keep Your Kitchen Sink its Cleanest

Sinks made of natural stone are porous and can be a breeding ground for bacteria. Try an easy-to-clean material like BLANCO SILGRANIT^® instead!

Interview with Salvatore Rizzo

Challenge: How to keep your kitchen sink clean with the right tools and cleaners:

Question 1:

There are so many kitchen cleaners on the market, what is the best way to keep kitchen sinks and surfaces clean with food constantly around?

Rizzo: Sanitation is always a priority at a cooking school. In order to keep surfaces and sinks especially clean we use bleach. A bleach and water solution can go a long way. We ask the chefs to clean as they cook and especially during hands-on demonstrations.

Question 2:

Kitchen Cleaning: What are the best tools to keep your kitchen clean and your workstation sanitary?

Rizzo: Keeping your dishtowels clean and dry is essential. Also the use of two sponges, one for your counter and countertop surfaces and one for your sinks will help keep the kitchen surfaces clean.

All stainless steel is not created equal. Ensure the finish of your stainless steel sink is smooth and polished not grainy with a brush like finish. BLANCO’s sinks, such as the QUATRUS collection are made from surgical grade steel.

Challenge: How do you know what types of sinks are easier to keep clean when designing and remodeling your kitchen?

Question 3:

What kitchen sinks make life easiest for you? Whether prepping or cleaning, which brands help you out the most?

Rizzo:

God do I love my BLANCO. I love deep, wide sinks. So much easier for doing large dinner parties. Sanitize – fill with cold water – so much room to clean lettuce and all the dirt stays on bottom. Filling up large pots. I don’t like split sinks. I like deep, large sinks.

Look to a kitchen sink like BLANCO’s SILGRANIT^®collection that incorporates composite granite and BLANCO’s proprietary Hygienic Plus Formula. I love the IKONApron Front Single Bowl sink that offers the easy-to-clean non-porous material.

Thanks Salvatore for those professional kitchen sink cleaning tips!

Image via: De Gustibus Cooking School

What works best for your kitchen cleaning ritual?

Remember, the most important fact is to keep your kitchen sink and preparation areas clean and safe when preparing and serving food. Look to surfaces that don’t harbor germs and develop a ritual of using separate sponges for separate workstations. Look to BLANCO sinks to help keep your kitchen clean and beautiful with these cleanliness tips.

For more kitchen ideas on Stagetecture, take a look at our kitchen category.

4 Ways to Save Money On New Kitchen Countertops

1. Kitchen countertop ideas: Choose Your Material Wisely

Another place to save money when replacing your kitchen counters is in your choice of counter material. First, you should consider what you really want, because you will be living with your countertops for a long time. Perhaps you love the classic look of marble and granite, or maybe you prefer the industrial look of stainless steel and concrete. Next, think about how much maintenance you are willing to put into your countertops. Marble and butcher block are higher maintenance than other materials. After all of this is done, think about the price. Butcher block, tile, and laminate are three of the cheapest counter materials available, and can help you achieve a variety of styles. If you need help choosing a countertop look at this Popular Mechanics article: 6 Great Countertops: How to Choose the Best Material.

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2. Consider updating your kitchen cabinets along with countertops

Many people think that to significantly change the look of their kitchen, they need to replace their kitchen cabinets and countertops, but as long as your cabinets are structurally sound, this is not the case. Changing the look of your kitchen cabinets is as simple as washing them down thoroughly, adding a coat of fresh paint in a modern color, and updating your kitchen cabinet hardware. This can all be accomplished in a day, and will make a big difference in your kitchen’s appearance. After you update your cabinets, you can plan the installation of your new kitchen counters right on top of your existing cabinets, saving a significant amount of time and money over replacing both.

3. Get 3 Professional Kitchen Remodeling Estimates

Once you’ve thought about what you want to do in your kitchen and what material you want to use for your counter, talk to a few professional contractors. Most contractors will provide a free estimate on a potential job, and they may have some good ideas for how to achieve the look you want for less money. It is a good idea to get more than one estimate on any job you are thinking of contracting out to get a better idea of the price. Three estimates will give you a good idea of the price range for your job, and will give you three different opinions on how best to do your job.

4. Kitchen Design: Consider a Do It Yourself Countertop Project

If after talking with the pros you think it all sounds pretty easy, then consider turning your kitchen upgrade into a DIY project. If you are confident in your construction skills, this can be a huge way to save with new kitchen counters. You can find lots of tutorials online that show you how to work with most common countertop materials, and you can rent most of the bigger tools you’ll need to do the job. So enlist the help of a friend or two, buy your materials, and make over your kitchen in a weekend with refreshed cabinets and a new countertop. The DIY Network has an article about installing granite countertops. Take a look and see if you can do the job yourself.

Use these four tips to help you update your kitchen counters this spring, without breaking the bank. Choosing your material wisely, updating your old cabinets when replacing your kitchen countertops, and doing the work yourself can save you lots of money while allowing you to achieve your desired kitchen you’ve been always wanted.

For more kitchen remodeling tips visit our kitchen and bath archives.

How to Avoid Common Mistakes in your Kitchen Remodel

Mistake #1: Kitchen cabinets are chosen before selecting a sink

You may think selecting the kitchen sink before your new kitchen cabinets are installed seems backwards, but it can save you a lot of time and money, not to mention frustration. Dependent on the type of sink you want, the connectors for the water lines could be in a different place than the sink you have currently. With some sink models, especially an under cabinet sink, your current water lines would be placed too high in the wall to connect to the sink. For more helpful tips about where to place the sink in your kitchen remodel – This Old House gives some tips for sink location.

Kitchen sinks and kitchen sink plumbing should be coordinated

If you have the kitchen cabinets installed before selecting kitchen sinks and then find out the water lines are in the wrong place, the cabinet may have to come out so a plumber in your area could be your best option for fixing the problem. For example, a plumber in East London can reposition the waterlines in order to properly connect the new sink. This would mean spending extra time, and money, on a problem you could’ve easily avoided by discussing the sink selection with the cabinetmaker or by selecting the sink before the cabinets were installed.

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Mistake #2: Kitchen flooring isn’t installed beneath kitchen cabinets and dishwasher

In order to save money, many people choose not to have flooring installed under the cabinets and dishwasher. However, if the flooring isn’t installed, when the dishwasher arrives, it may not fit because the new flooring is higher than the subfloor. While this can be corrected by waiting for the dishwasher to be installed before the flooring is put in, if the dishwasher needs to be repaired, the flooring around it would have to come out in order to do so.

To prevent wasted time, have the new flooring installed under your cabinets and where the dishwasher goes so it can easily be put in and pulled out when necessary. Don’t just install the flooring where the dishwasher goes, because then the kitchen cabinets will need to be lifted slightly to allow for the dishwasher. The extra expense for the flooring will help prevent bigger, more expensive problems in the long run.

Avoiding these two easily preventable mistakes will save both time and aggravation for all involved with the kitchen renovation.

For more kitchen renovation ideas on Stagetecture, click here.

Kitchen Remodeling Ideas: How to Mix & Match your Kitchen Sink Faucets

Image via: Blanco – SONOMA Faucet with Pull Down Spray and DIAMOND Super Single Sink 

Kitchen cabinet ideas lend inspiration to the rest of the kitchen

We first started seeing a departure from old design with kitchen cabinets that were different colors at the base cabinet than the upper cabinets. Gorgeous hues of stained woods in rich cherry or mahogany would compliment a base cabinet in light oak wood. The pairing was beautiful and kitchen enthusiasts loved mixing and matching the grains of wood, stain colors and even cabinet door hardware to create a story in the kitchen. Once the cabinets became popular the trend was to vary the kitchen island and even mix and match countertops with the base cabinet colors. Butcher block islands that didn’t match adjacent white Carrera marble countertops in other parts of the kitchen became the norm, and homeowners loved the trend!

Kitchen sink faucets and coordinating sinks take on a similar style

It isn’t rare to see kitchen sink faucets being crafted from a singular metal to bring color to the kitchen countertop. What is new however is the marrying of color and finish within the same fixture! Kitchen sink manufacturer, BLANCO, has always been spot on with defining trends. Their new line of ARTONA faucets highlight the integration of dual finishes in six on-trend colors to match their iconic SILGRANIT^® sinks. The new line will redefine for kitchen enthusiasts who love the ability to share their personal style through their fixtures and finishes.

Find kitchen remodeling ideas in your own stylish way

For many homeowners who don’t want to stay within the confines of what they see in interior design magazines, mix and match kitchens gives the owner permission to show off their own voice. For many years dark sinks such as charcoal gray and black were hard to find and rarely were seen in the design publications. Today, designers and homeowners alike are enjoying the reemergence of deep and profound colors in the kitchen. BLANCO’s IKON Apron Front Single sink is the perfect example of mixing and matching finishes to reflect style and beauty.

Image via: BLANCO – IKON Apron Front single sink

Whether you are looking to replace your existing kitchen fixtures for a well-deserved kitchen remodeling project or you are just in the planning stages, don’t shy away from mixing and matching your kitchen components. From cabinets and countertops to sinks and faucets, there isn’t a better time to think out of the box and create a beautiful kitchen with these on-trend design ideas.

For more kitchen design ideas on Stagetecture, click here.

Last month I attended the Kitchen and Bath Industry Show (KBIS) and it was great to see Kohler who always has a great variety of kitchen faucets for every budget. Whether you have been thinking about a kitchen remodel for your outdated kitchen or you’re trying to stay on a strict budget to keep your kitchen remodeling costs down, it can be a challenge. Kitchen cabinetry, appliances and kitchen faucets are components that are often the drivers of your renovation budget, but we have ideas to help. Kohler has three faucets that will help keep your budget low while shopping at The Home Depot, while still delivering a gorgeous kitchen makeover! Take a look at these three faucet models and simple tips to save on your kitchen remodel.

Kitchen faucets can be a hidden cost you forget about:

When planning your kitchen remodeling project don’t forget to price out accessories like kitchen faucets, kitchen cabinetry handles, and lighting along with the main kitchen design budget. The Home Depot offers 3 kitchen faucets designed to coordinate with your designer kitchen remodeling project but stay in an affordable range for your budget. Take a look at the 3 models:

1. Kohler Trielle Single-Handle Pull-Down Sprayer:

Who doesn’t love a contemporary faucet to their modern kitchen? The Kohler Trielle Kitchen Faucet is available in Vibrant Stainless Steel, Polished Chrome and my personal favorite: Oil Rubbed Bronze colors. This modern faucet offers a pull-down sprayer that helps you clean your sink and dishes in one seamless motion. The magnetic docking or DockNetik helps the sprayer hose to snap easily back.

“DockNetik technology secures spray head in place through our signature magnetic docking system. Two-function spray head features stream and Sweep, a wide forceful spray that makes cleanup easier, to facilitate all the various tasks of the kitchen space.”… Kohler

2. Kohler Sous Single-Handle Pro-Style Pull-Down Sprayer Kitchen Faucet

If you’re a fan of industrial commercial kitchens but are not a fan of the high price, take a look at the Kohler Sous Kitchen Faucet available in Stainless Steel or Polished Chrome finishes.  Take a look at these features that will make you feel like the culinary chef you yearn to be from Kohler:

• 2-function sprayhead features stream and Sweep, a wide forceful spray that makes cleanup easier, to facilitate all the various tasks of the kitchen space
• A detachable spring and sprayhead facilitate cleaning to keep your faucet always looking new
• Designed with ceramic disc valves that exceed industry standards by 2x for a lifetime of durable performance
• DIYer-friendly installation thanks to flexible hoses and quick-connect fittings

3. Worth Single-Handle Pull-Down Sprayer Kitchen Faucet

For a more traditional kitchen the Kohler Worth Kitchen Faucet  keeps the classic lines of your kitchen while delivering the modern amenities you look for, but without the hefty price tag. Available in Oil Rubbed Bronze or Stainless Steel this faucet is for the design-focused:

“Inspired by the vintage-loving urbanite, Worth features bold facets on the handle, at the base, and its swivel point to provide standout design. Its unique look complements traditional decor as well as modern designs that embrace retro elements.”… Kohler

All 3 of these faucets are exclusive to The Home Depot and feature:

• Are exclusively available at The Home Depot.
• Include scratch shield technology that helps the faucet withstand the toughest daily use
• Include a 3-hole sink adapter plate
• Are designed with ceramic disc valves that exceed industry standards by 2x for a lifetime of durable performance.

How to keep your home remodeling costs low with research

Many homeowners forget about researching their kitchen components and finishes before they get into the renovation. In this day and age with helpful buying resources and the ability to shop online, it’s essential to measure your space in your kitchen and determine the colors, prices and sizes before opening up your wallet. The Home Depot keeps the DIY’er informed by keeping their prices low but still showing off features that mimic higher priced brands. If you’re working with a contractor ask them to show you the prices of all faucets and finishes before construction begins.

This season before you get married to your dream kitchen idea, ensure you do some comparison shopping on your kitchen faucets. You may be pleasantly surprised how all the features and gorgeous detailing you were considering in a more expensive faucet could be available in these 3 kitchen faucets from Kohler, exclusively at The Home Depot.

Kitchen Remodel Ideas: Updating Old Cabinets

Image via: HGTV

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Wallpaper the Doors

Wallpaper can add a dash of color to your cabinets. It is inexpensive and comes in a range of designs. The best thing about wallpaper is that you can use it to update your kitchen temporarily. Removable wallpaper is a great option as it is very easy to install and remove. You can use it on the doors of your kitchen cabinets, on the interior of upper cabinets, and on the walls. Wallpaper is ideal for those living in rentals because it offers temporary updates.

Refinish, Paint, or Stain the Cabinets

Image via: She Knows

These three processes can transform your old cabinets and make them look brand new. If you have time on your hands, you can work on the cabinets yourself. Clean the doors and shelves, sand the old paint, and remove the flaws from the surfaces. Afterwards, apply a fresh coat of paint or stain for a new look. This is the easiest and most affordable way to update old cabinets.

Reface the Cabinets

Refacing makes old cabinets new. Instead of buying new cabinets which cost an arm and a leg, you can reface your old cabinets for a small price. Do up the cabinets by installing new laminate or wood veneer layers on top. You can change the type of wood, style, and color for a total makeover. This update adds value to your home without costing too much.

Image via: Home Depot

A kitchen is more than a place for making meals, it is where your loved ones spend most of their time. Some kitchens even have dining areas where families can spend time together. If yours is looking worse for wear, don’t fret. Simply update the cabinets. It is a simple project that won’t put a dent in your wallet. It will transform your kitchen into a meeting point for the whole family.

Which of these kitchen remodel ideas appeals to you?

4 Ways to Upgrade your Kitchen with a Modern Twist

Image via:  Ikiodabisalon 

1. Replace Old or Outdated Fixtures/Appliances

Modernize your appliances and fixtures. Even though this venture can become costly you might want to focus in on which items needed actual replacement and which needs a fix. Select appliances that are Eco-friendly and update your kitchen fixture with new metals like aluminum, stainless steel, copper etc.

Image via: Houzz

2. Open up your Kitchen

Space and openness is vital within the modern style. So incorporate this idea within your own kitchen, you choose to remove any upper cabinets or even better knock down a wall or two. Confined kitchens are more of the traditional approach keeping it as a separate room within the home. However, if you take out some walls and upper cabinet space it will leave room for a more clean and receptive look. Be sure to speak with an architect or constructions engineer first.

Image via: Griyane

3. Install New Materials

Use the materials within your home to help invite the modern day look into your kitchen. Such as, replacing the flooring with hardwoods, cork, bamboo or even stone flooring. These features will offer the space smoother appearance or, you can even use metals, tiles, or woods for the countertop space and/ or backsplash areas.

Image via: Ikea

4. Add in Kitchen Accents

Try setting in modern light fixtures, colors and/or furniture in to your kitchen. Lighting in general can transform any space and what houses the lights can make all the difference to the décor. Again, simple styles with straight line or strong metals will suffice. Also, a fresh coat of paint is always quick choice for updating a home. The frosted or stained glaze will be the true eye catcher or, how about just adding in modern furniture for your kitchen like modern barstools or dining areas.
The modern style carries a very strong yet sleek sense of style. Whether you may want to sell your home or just keep in your family for generations, giving it an upgraded look will continuously work out for the better. It doesn’t take much and the rewards are very satisfying. So take a look above and see how you can modernize your home today.

For more ways to upgrade your kitchen, look to these kitchen ideas on Stagetecture, click here.