I love this selection of pictures from Better Homes and Garden about using color in your kitchen. Whether it's a subtle touch of color in the background that is complemented with decorative items or your dishes or outright fabulous use of color in the wall, cabinet or tile color, as you can see, using color in your kitchen can be an amazingly outrageous way to personalize your kitchen to reflect exactly who you are. We can be so afraid to creatively individualize our homes for fear of what people will think or the dreaded "resale value" argument, but forget about it. This is YOUR home and you want it to bring a comfort to your soul and a smile to your face. If adding punches or full out color to your kitchen will do just that, GO FOR IT! Enjoy the pictures and let us know what you think. And, if you've used color to express yourself, well, ahem . . . pictures PLEASE!
Find the Perfect Kitchen Color Scheme
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
Thursday, May 19, 2011
Kitchen Spring Cleaning Tips
It is that time of year again, time for spring cleaning and the kitchen is a REALLY great place to start. When the kitchen is fresh and clean, the whole house feels clean. Use these tips to get yourself motivated and started . . .
Microwave
Fill a microwave-safe mug two-thirds full of water and add a few splashes of lemon juice or some fresh lemon slices. Microwave it on HIGH for 4 minutes. When it's done, leave the door closed and keep it in there for another 4 minutes. The moisture from the steam and the acid from the lemon will loosen the food particles. After 8 minutes total, remove the mug and wipe down the interior with a wet paper towel. Take out the glass plate and give it a good washing with soap and water. To finish up, wipe off the outside of the microwave with a surface-appropriate cleaner.
To finish, use your vacuum hose and clean the bottom vents and coils in the. This will help your refrigerator to run at its peak capacity, keeping your energy bills down and your food cold. Finally, use a surface-appropriate cleaner for the front and sides, and you're done! Keep up with this every month or so, and you'll be on your way to a continually clean kitchen.
Stove and Oven
Start by cleaning your stovetop to get rid of cooked-on food particles and film that can build up over time.
Electric Stoves
For food on the coils, use a mild soap and water mixture and clean them. Make sure they are fully dry before reattaching them. Take out the metal trays under the coils and soak them in hot, soapy water. Scrub off all food stains with an abrasive sponge and clean them thoroughly. If they seem beyond repair, you can buy new trays for a small cost. Using a soapy sponge or antibacterial wipes, clean off the stovetop and get any food bits and crumbs out of underneath the coils.
Flat Top Stoves
When it comes to cleaning kitchen appliances, these are the easiest to clean and keep clean. For a quick cleaning, use a soapy sponge and wipe off any residue. For tougher stains, use a specially-formulated Flat Top Stove cleaner such as Scotch-Brite Scratchless Cooktop Cleaner.
Gas Stoves
Many gas stoves now have removable grates that can be washed in hot, soapy water or even put in the dishwasher. Check your manufacturer's instructions and wash them accordingly. Then, take a soapy sponge or antibacterial wipes and scrub the stove surface clean.
Oven
Most ovens now have a self-cleaning feature so you don't have to work so hard. However, the fumes are strong, so open up the windows and stay out of the kitchen while it's going through the cleaning cycle. When spring cleaning your kitchen, save this task for last and relax in another part of the house. For small messes that don't require an entire self-cleaning cycle, a spot cleaner like Easy Off® Fume Free Oven Cleaner works well.
Coffeemaker
Depending on the quality of your water, mineral deposits can build up inside the water reservoir over time, affecting the taste and quality of your coffee. To clean it, mix equal parts distilled white vinegar and water and run it through the coffeemaker without any coffee. Depending on how much buildup your machine has, you may need to repeat this. Finally, run a pot of just water through a brewing cycle before making coffee to clean out any vinegar residue.
Cabinets
One cabinet at a time, take out the contents and wipe down the shelves with antibacterial wipes. Clean out any expired food, and make sure dishes are arranged in a way that best serves your daily life. If you use shelf paper, replace any paper that's too dirty or torn. Finally, use a mild dish detergent and water to wipe down the fronts of each cabinet. Clean the handles and pulls as well. And use glass cleaner to polish up any glass-front cabinets. The results will give you a clean kitchen that shines.
*Note: Check the manufacturer's instructions beforehand for any special cleaning precautions for your particular cabinet finish.
Follow these kitchen cleaning tips for spring cleaning your kitchen and enjoy a neat, organized, and clean kitchen all year long.
Microwave
Fill a microwave-safe mug two-thirds full of water and add a few splashes of lemon juice or some fresh lemon slices. Microwave it on HIGH for 4 minutes. When it's done, leave the door closed and keep it in there for another 4 minutes. The moisture from the steam and the acid from the lemon will loosen the food particles. After 8 minutes total, remove the mug and wipe down the interior with a wet paper towel. Take out the glass plate and give it a good washing with soap and water. To finish up, wipe off the outside of the microwave with a surface-appropriate cleaner.
Refrigerator
Remove everything from your fridge and take out the bins and shelves. Wash them in hot, soapy water to remove any food bits and get them clean. If you want to disinfect, or if the mess is really caked on, add a little bleach to your water as well. While they're drying, use disinfecting wipes to scrub the walls, floor, inside door, and wire shelving. If any spots are discolored, mix some baking soda, lemon juice, and water to make a paste, and scrub at these spots. They should come clean and whiten back up.
To finish, use your vacuum hose and clean the bottom vents and coils in the. This will help your refrigerator to run at its peak capacity, keeping your energy bills down and your food cold. Finally, use a surface-appropriate cleaner for the front and sides, and you're done! Keep up with this every month or so, and you'll be on your way to a continually clean kitchen.
Stove and Oven
Start by cleaning your stovetop to get rid of cooked-on food particles and film that can build up over time.
Electric Stoves
For food on the coils, use a mild soap and water mixture and clean them. Make sure they are fully dry before reattaching them. Take out the metal trays under the coils and soak them in hot, soapy water. Scrub off all food stains with an abrasive sponge and clean them thoroughly. If they seem beyond repair, you can buy new trays for a small cost. Using a soapy sponge or antibacterial wipes, clean off the stovetop and get any food bits and crumbs out of underneath the coils.
Flat Top Stoves
When it comes to cleaning kitchen appliances, these are the easiest to clean and keep clean. For a quick cleaning, use a soapy sponge and wipe off any residue. For tougher stains, use a specially-formulated Flat Top Stove cleaner such as Scotch-Brite Scratchless Cooktop Cleaner.
Gas Stoves
Many gas stoves now have removable grates that can be washed in hot, soapy water or even put in the dishwasher. Check your manufacturer's instructions and wash them accordingly. Then, take a soapy sponge or antibacterial wipes and scrub the stove surface clean.
Oven
Coffeemaker
Cabinets
*Note: Check the manufacturer's instructions beforehand for any special cleaning precautions for your particular cabinet finish.
Pantry
Since the pantry is behind closed doors, it's east to constantly take food out and put more in without giving much thought to its order (or the food wedged in the back). But over time, things can become so disorganized that you forget what you have, and food goes bad or you end up buying more of something you don't need. Begin by removing everything from the pantry and following the kitchen cleaning tips for cabinets, above. Lay everything out on a countertop or table, and take stock of what you actually have. Start by throwing out any expired foods. Then, organize foods into like groups, like canned goods, spice packets, and cereals. For smaller items, wire shelving like these from the Container Store can help you get organized. If you have a lot of small items like dry soup mixes and spice packets, try hanging a plastic shoe organizer on the inside of the door. The compartments are the perfect size for smaller odds and ends that tend to get lost.
Monday, April 18, 2011
Turning "Trash" into Functional Treasures
Something that makes R & W different than some remodeling companies is that we're not just about sticks and bricks, getting the building done, collecting the last check and moving on to the next build. We're also about making homes beautiful and a place of enjoyment for our customers. So, today's blog post is about decorating the home in a style that I am particularly fond of.
You've heard the expression, "From Trash to Treasure", but this Better Homes and Garden article shares tips for what to do with those antique, "trash" treasures that gives the items functionality.
Functional Form Add architectural character while creating a perch for treasured collectibles by turning salvaged decorative molding into a shelf. Position it at eye level to make a big statement.
Mail Stop Perched on a table or desk, an old porch railing becomes an instant organizer. The slats keep letters, postcards, and bills neat and within easy reach.
Looking Up Give a weathered mantel new life as an eye-catching headboard. There's no hanging required -- simply prop the mantel against the wall and let the bed frame hold it in place. Take advantage of the mantel's shelf to showcase treasured mementos.
Mirror Magic Instead of the more traditional boxy medicine cabinet, create an instant focal point by using an ornate mirror above a sink or vanity. Spray paint the frame a color that coordinates with your bathroom's color scheme to create a one-of-a-kind accent.
Shutter Style Add character to plain rooms by propping architectural salvage, such as these vintage shutters, against a bare wall.
One of our favorite, local "treasure" hunting stores is Junk Warehouse in Barrington, Illinois. Check out their website to see what items they carry and to find out what their store hours are. We spend quite a few weekends browsing Junk Warehouse checking out their latest finds. They also teach how to distress-paint furniture or will do the job for you.
Happy treasure hunting. We would love to see what you do with your treasures. Please post your rooms/pictures to our Facebook wall.
You've heard the expression, "From Trash to Treasure", but this Better Homes and Garden article shares tips for what to do with those antique, "trash" treasures that gives the items functionality.
Functional Form Add architectural character while creating a perch for treasured collectibles by turning salvaged decorative molding into a shelf. Position it at eye level to make a big statement.
Mail Stop Perched on a table or desk, an old porch railing becomes an instant organizer. The slats keep letters, postcards, and bills neat and within easy reach.
Looking Up Give a weathered mantel new life as an eye-catching headboard. There's no hanging required -- simply prop the mantel against the wall and let the bed frame hold it in place. Take advantage of the mantel's shelf to showcase treasured mementos.
Mirror Magic Instead of the more traditional boxy medicine cabinet, create an instant focal point by using an ornate mirror above a sink or vanity. Spray paint the frame a color that coordinates with your bathroom's color scheme to create a one-of-a-kind accent.
Shutter Style Add character to plain rooms by propping architectural salvage, such as these vintage shutters, against a bare wall.
One of our favorite, local "treasure" hunting stores is Junk Warehouse in Barrington, Illinois. Check out their website to see what items they carry and to find out what their store hours are. We spend quite a few weekends browsing Junk Warehouse checking out their latest finds. They also teach how to distress-paint furniture or will do the job for you.
Happy treasure hunting. We would love to see what you do with your treasures. Please post your rooms/pictures to our Facebook wall.
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
Our Latest Project - With a Touch O' Green
It has been far too long since an R & W blog has graced the airways. We apologize for this very long lapse and will strive to blog more often. Life got in the way this winter and now here it is, almost March.
In one of our latest projects, the customer approached us to design and remodel their kitchen and mud room using green products where possible.
We chose frameless cabinets from Holiday. They maintain their own forests for the manufacture of cabinets. We also chose to use Quartz countertops for their long-lasting beauty, easy cleaning and the fact that they are non-porous which makes them safe for food preparation.
We used Benjamin Moore Natura Zero V.O.C. (volatile organic compounds) paint on the walls, ceiling and trim including doors. We used red oak flooring and finished it with a waterborne clear coat, which like the paint is odorless, thus keeping the home environment healthy.
High-end, Energy Star appliances were also installed. During a remodel is the perfect time to change out any poorly functioning, high-energy-drain appliances that will not blend well with your new space.
We used LED under-cabinet lighting fixtures which use less energy and will last 20-plus years. We especially like the thin, sleek design of these particular lighting fixtures made by Kichler.
We used Water Sense fixtures by Kohler throughout the remodel. Water Sense is a program started by the EPA that lends their seal of approval to a company's product that has water-saving features.
Every job needs a superintendent to make sure the job stays on track. Our's was the owner's beagle, Yogi. He was a great addition to the crew and the overhang of the countertop on the island was put in place at the customer's request to keep Yogi covered and secure for when he is enjoying his meals.
In one of our latest projects, the customer approached us to design and remodel their kitchen and mud room using green products where possible.
We chose frameless cabinets from Holiday. They maintain their own forests for the manufacture of cabinets. We also chose to use Quartz countertops for their long-lasting beauty, easy cleaning and the fact that they are non-porous which makes them safe for food preparation.
We used Benjamin Moore Natura Zero V.O.C. (volatile organic compounds) paint on the walls, ceiling and trim including doors. We used red oak flooring and finished it with a waterborne clear coat, which like the paint is odorless, thus keeping the home environment healthy.
High-end, Energy Star appliances were also installed. During a remodel is the perfect time to change out any poorly functioning, high-energy-drain appliances that will not blend well with your new space.
We used LED under-cabinet lighting fixtures which use less energy and will last 20-plus years. We especially like the thin, sleek design of these particular lighting fixtures made by Kichler.
We used Water Sense fixtures by Kohler throughout the remodel. Water Sense is a program started by the EPA that lends their seal of approval to a company's product that has water-saving features.
Every job needs a superintendent to make sure the job stays on track. Our's was the owner's beagle, Yogi. He was a great addition to the crew and the overhang of the countertop on the island was put in place at the customer's request to keep Yogi covered and secure for when he is enjoying his meals.
Thursday, November 18, 2010
The Not So Big Author and Architect
Recently Randy and I had the privilege and honor to meet the author and architect behind the Not So Big concepts that we model our business after, Sarah Susanka. Sarah is part of a program with Marvin Windows called The myMarvin Project, a program where they've approached known names in the design world and asked them to design their own signature window (see Sarah's window below). The Marvin Windows Gallery in Lake Bluff recently invited Sarah to visit and give a talk on her Not So Big concepts and it was a fabulous event. Sarah is one of the nicest, most down to earth people I have met and she just lives and breathes her beliefs like it's just the way it always has been and always should be (and she's right on the last part!).
Okay, but here's the coolest thing . . . Sarah has been asked to design one of the houses in a new subdivision that is being built in Libertyville, Illinois called The School Street Homes. It is a remarkable new development going in that (in their words right off their website - I couldn't have said it better) develops a streetscape of 26 Front Porch Revival homes in harmony with transforming the historic Central School into 15 Urban lofts. Enhance SchoolStreet resident's quality of life to align with the cultural shift in the United States of how people want to live. Promoting a New Urban lifestyle that is connected to the community, pedestrian friendly, less excessive, more sensitive to the environment and within steps of Libertyville's vibrant downtown. Sarah got involved in this project as she was investigating builders who were interested in building smaller, smarter homes and because of the current economic culture we are in, she wasn't finding any who were willing to go outside the box. Click here to read more about her involvement in the School Street Homes project. As you will see from her website, there is an public meet and greet with Sarah tonight from 6 - 8 p.m. at The Libertyville Civic Center, 135 West Church St. She really is a genuinely nice, intelligent and passionate women who is worth the time to go meet.
Folks this is our passion, this is right up our alley, THIS IS SO COOL!!! YES! Let's get back to porch living, being an involved and productive member of our community - let's actually talk to our neighbors and do life with them, all while living in homes that are sound for the environment and are built to last! Learn more about this amazing development by click on their name above. Enjoy scouring their website - be inspired and get excited! I know many of us aren't in the market for a new home, but check out Sarah's Not So Big Books and website and get inspired to make changes in your own home to make it more suitable to the way you and your family live.
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| Randy and I with author and architect, Sarah Susanka |
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| Sarah's Signature Marvin window designed through the myMarvin Project |
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| Illustration of School Street from porch |
Folks this is our passion, this is right up our alley, THIS IS SO COOL!!! YES! Let's get back to porch living, being an involved and productive member of our community - let's actually talk to our neighbors and do life with them, all while living in homes that are sound for the environment and are built to last! Learn more about this amazing development by click on their name above. Enjoy scouring their website - be inspired and get excited! I know many of us aren't in the market for a new home, but check out Sarah's Not So Big Books and website and get inspired to make changes in your own home to make it more suitable to the way you and your family live.
Thursday, November 11, 2010
Creating Beauty from the Wreckage
On one of our latest jobs, we had a customer come to us as a referral from another job we did, who had water damage in her house and her insurance company sent in an adjuster to investigate the damage. In the process, however the contractor the adjuster sent out to investigate did way more damage than she started with, inappropriately cutting into materials and slicing at the hardwood floor to where she needed much more repair work done because of the damage he caused.
After seeing a spot on the news last night about an insurance adjusting scam that is currently going on, I have to wonder if that is what happened here, but thankfully, she did not have any further involvement with the adjuster and instead, found her own contractor to do the work.
To stay within her budget, we replaced the kitchen cabinets in the same general layout that they originally were in, we moved the refrigerator to give her more counter space and added some nice, personal touches to give her a new space to call her own.
Our motto and focus in general is that we strive to give our customers an enjoyable, stress-free remodeling experience. But, especially when there is stress and strife to begin with on a project, we make sure to take the absolute best care of our customers so their minds can be at ease in knowing they are going to end up with a lovely, comfortable space and they can leave the memory of what went before in the dust.
After seeing a spot on the news last night about an insurance adjusting scam that is currently going on, I have to wonder if that is what happened here, but thankfully, she did not have any further involvement with the adjuster and instead, found her own contractor to do the work.
To stay within her budget, we replaced the kitchen cabinets in the same general layout that they originally were in, we moved the refrigerator to give her more counter space and added some nice, personal touches to give her a new space to call her own.
Our motto and focus in general is that we strive to give our customers an enjoyable, stress-free remodeling experience. But, especially when there is stress and strife to begin with on a project, we make sure to take the absolute best care of our customers so their minds can be at ease in knowing they are going to end up with a lovely, comfortable space and they can leave the memory of what went before in the dust.
Monday, October 18, 2010
It's Time for Some Autumn News!
R & W Construction's Autumn News E-Newsletter is out. Check it out for great information, a helpful Fall/Winter Home & Yard Maintenance checklist and the scrumptious recipe for Pumpkin Soup! Check it out HERE!
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