Choosing the Right Sink for Your Kitchen Remodel

One of the last things you will think about for a major kitchen remodel is the kind of kitchen sink to put in. After all, a sink is such a mundane thing. However, the kitchen sink is an essential part of your kitchen, so choosing a new one deserves a lot more attention than it usually gets. The type of sink you choose will have a profound effect on how you work, so pay attention to the pros and cons of different types of sinks so you can choose the right one for your needs.

Top mount sink

Also known as a rimmed or drop-in sink, this is the most common and cost-effective type of kitchen sink. It is quite easy to install provided the hole in the counter is measured correctly. It is called a drop in sink because you literally drop the sink into the hole, and it is secured to the counter with silicone. The rim supports the sink, so it is important that it rests securely on the counter.
The best thing about top mounted sinks is that it is easy to install once the cut is made in the counter. You can do it yourself with a solid surface or laminate counter if you have the right tools. However, if you have a quartz or granite counter, it is best to leave the cutting to the professionals.

The problem with this kind of sink is that the rim is higher than the counter, which means that shunting water and debris straight from the counter to the sink is not possible. The sink rim itself has to be regularly cleaned to make sure no foreign matter is festering in there.

Under mount sink

Also popular in homes today, under mount sinks differ from top mount sink in terms of installation. Under mount sink rims attach under the counter using clips instead of resting on the edges of the sink cutout.
The best thing about an undermount sink is the clean lines. The sink itself is under the counter, so there is no rim bumps to interrupt the visual path from the counter to the sink. From a practical point of view, this also means clean up is a lot easier as water and any dirt goes directly from the counter to the sink.

The problem with under mount sinks are they are harder to install. Aside from requiring some type of support to keep the sink from dropping down, the sink cutout has to be precise to prevent any gaps forming between the underside of the counter and the sink, where food and other gunk can collect. This can be hard to DIY, and almost impossible for granite or quartz counters. Professional installers ensure than any gaps are sealed with silicone, but the gaps have to be relatively small, so success or failure is all on the fabricator.

Double basin sink

There was a time when double basin sinks was a must because people needed one basin for washing and another for rinsing. However, with most people not bothering to handwash anything that can fit into a dishwasher, a double sink is no longer necessary.
The best thing about a double sink is the ability to multi-task. You can use one basin for thawing out food and the other one for washing or preparing food. The problem with most double sinks, however, is that they are often too small fro washing large pots, pans, and bakeware.

Single basin sink

Gaining more popularity today than double sinks is the larger and deeper single sink that can accommodate larger items. Farmhouse sinks are one example of the single basin sink, and these are gaing traction with many homeowners because they are comfortable to use. If you hold parties all the time or cook large meals on a regular basis, this is the sink for you.
The only problem with a single large sink is that you have no room for a drying area. That is easily solved by includin a drying cabinet or rack in your kitchen design. Alternatively, you might consider the next sink type.

Drainboard sink

If you live in a small house or condo, space is at a premium. This means dedicating a space for drying dishes may not be possible. One type of sink incoporates the sink with a drain board, appropriately enough called a drainboard sink. The drainboard and sink are one unit, so the fabricator will include it in the cutout. In most cases, these sinks are top mounted, so the rims sit on top of the counters, which means they have the same problem with cleaning as top mounted sinks. The great thing about a drainboard sink is that it is space saving. The problem with it is that the sink basins tend to be on the small side, which may not matter if you have a small kitchen anyway.

These are just a few of the most popular basic types of kitchen sinks. Each one has many variations on the theme, but the general characteristics remain the same. If you cannot decide on a sink for your kitchen, discuss it with a reliable kitchen remodeler like Fairfax Kitchen Bath. Fairfax Kitchen Bath services the DC, MD and Northern Virginia metropolitan areas. We are a Class A, licensed and insured contractor, registered in the Commonwealth of Virginia.

We guarantee you will love it for life. We sell only top quality products for all your kitchen remodeling needs manufactured by leading brands in the industry.

When you contract with us, you can be sure you will get a quick turnaround on your products, and receive it much faster than ordering what you need from big box stores. We specialize in fabricating kitchen countertops to specifications, and installing them within budget and on time.
We carry the products you need for your kitchen renovation, including sinks, faucets, natural and engineered stone slabs, cabinets, shelves, tiles, backsplashes, knobs and pulls, and hardwood flooring. We carry only the top brands for these products, such as Schrock Cabinetry, Silestone, Blanco, Kohler, and Mosaic Décor.

You can see the products before you buy so you can decide for yourself if the quality is what you expect. We have a showroom in Fairfax, Virginia which houses all our products, including actual granite, marble and engineered stone slabs from which you can choose.
Our products come with manufacturer warranties that ensure your satisfaction with the quality and installation.
Contact us today to get a free quote for your trendy kitchen remodeling project.

How to Make the Most of Your Kitchen Remodel

A major overhaul of the kitchen is on the wish list of many homeowners. However, most put it off because it is a big investment in time and money. However, it is well worth it if you make the most of your kitchen remodeling budget. Going with a reliable and experienced remodeling company like Fairfax Kitchen and Bath helps, but you can take steps to make sure you get the most bang for your buck.

Consider your workflow

The kitchen is primarily a place of work, and like all places of work, there is a specific workflow. Each kitchen workflow varies slightly depending on the user, so before going full tilt into a kitchen remodel, consider how the changes will affect the way you work. Ideally, the remodel should help you become more efficient, but to achieve that, you need to think about how you normally use the kitchen. For example, if you like to chop your vegetables on the fly, you will want the sink and cook top within easy reaching distance from your food prep space. If you love to bake, you will want to plan storage for your baking tools and ingredients, and maybe install a marble workspace for pastry rolling.
These are just some examples of the things you should consider and incorporate into your new kitchen design. This ensures that the final result will make you a happier, more productive kitchen user.

Counter measures

Most experts will advise you to choose the material for kitchen counters first before anything else. You have a lot of choices there, so it can take a bit of time to decide. Fortunately, the top choices are still granite, marble, and engineered quartz, so that should narrow the field for you.

Aside from the time it takes to choose the right countertop material for the kitchen, your choice will typically determine the overall look of your kitchen, from the walls to the floor to the cabinets. This is especially true if you pick natural or engineered stone, because they tend to steal the show in any kitchen. In addition, it is much easier to match the kitchen design to the counters than the other way around, especially if you choose granite countertops. Finally, you can get some unique color palettes if you base it on stone countertops. In fact, you can either way: match the colors, or choose the opposite ones. Contrasting colors give your kitchen an interesting look, aside from giving it some great depth and drama. In a classic black and white kitchen for example, white marble looks perfect against black cabinets.

If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it

It can be tempting to just go on an “out with the old, in with the new” attitude. After all, if you’re doing a complete kitchen remodel, you may as well go all the way, right? However, some changes are not necessary, especially if the house is not that old. In most cases, you can keep much of the existing infrastructure, such as the electrical and plumbing, and that can save you money you can put towards other things, like new cabinets. Relocating drains and pipes can add some big costs to your renovation budget, so unless it is unavoidable, work with what you already have in place.

Moving infrastructure can also extend the time it takes to complete a renovation project. It isn’t just about the actual work involved, either. Major restructuring usually requires getting permits, and that can take a lot of time and effort. As licensed contractors, we can take care of that, but that is still added time and money on your end. In most cases, you can change the layout of the kitchen quite a bit without doing much in the way of major restructuring. It just takes a little creativity and a professional eye for design, which we can provide.

Full backsplash or bust

Most homeowners don’t really think about their backsplashes much. After all, its main function is to keep the walls protected from oil splatters and the like and to make clean up that much easier. It is not exactly a glamorous component of the kitchen.
The standard backsplash height is four inches for some reason, which does not really make much sense. It doesn’t go high enough to the wall behind it from all the splatter in a typical cooking session and it serves to cut up the wall, making it look shorter. In other words, the standard backsplash is not the best way to go if you want to make the most of your kitchen remodel.
You should seriously consider a full backsplash, one that goes up to the wall cabinet or to the ceiling. It may add some to your total cost, but it will do wonders for the look of your kitchen. Not only will it do a better job in keeping the kitchen splatter-free, it also induces a sense of continuity in the design. This is especially useful in kitchens with a low ceiling, as it creates the illusion of height. A full backsplash can also provide a focal point and drama in the kitchen, so you need to give your choice careful thought.

Conclusion

It is not always easy to get the perfect kitchen, but you can if you plan it carefully. These tips can help you make the most of your kitchen remodel so it doesn’t cost you an arm and a leg. However, the most important thing you can do is to find a reputable contractor to take on the project with you. Fairfax Kitchen Bath guarantees you will love you new kitchen for life. We sell only top quality products for all your kitchen remodeling needs, from natural and engineered stone slabs, cabinets, shelves, sinks, faucets tiles, backsplashes, knobs and pulls, and hardwood flooring. We carry only the top brands for these products, such as Schrock Cabinetry, Silestone, Blanco, Kohler, and Mosaic Décor.
You can see the products before you buy so you can decide for yourself if the quality is what you expect. We have a showroom in Fairfax, Virginia, which houses all our products. Our products come with manufacturer warranties that ensure your satisfaction with the quality and installation.

When you contract with us, you can be sure you will get a quick turnaround on your products, and receive it much faster than ordering what you need from big box stores. We specialize in carrying out kitchen remodeling projects within budget and on time.
Fairfax Kitchen Bath services the DC, MD and Northern Virginia metropolitan areas. We are a Class A, licensed and insured contractor, registered in the Commonwealth of Virginia.

Contact us today to get a free quote for your kitchen remodeling project.

Kitchen Remodeling: Choosing the Best Layout Design

Some homeowners want to do more than just upgrade their countertops and cabinets. They want to do a complete renovation of the layout as well. This may require knocking down walls or building them to get the desired look.

If you’re serious about renovating your cooking space the way you want it (and if it’s structurally possible), then you’ll find the following information valuable.

We’re going to dive into some of the best layout designs for a kitchen setting. Let’s get right to it!

1. One-Wall Kitchen Layout

Here’s an idea if you’re working with a small kitchen space. There’s no need to do anything fancy – just focus on making it as functional as possible.

Of course, this will only work if you’re great with keeping clutter to a minimal. Now, there are several advantages to having a kitchen layout like this. For instance, you won’t have to worry about impeded traffic flow.

There’s also plenty of space without barriers since there’s nothing taking up square footage. The design is rather simple and easy to pull off, given the plumbing isn’t an issue.

You’re able to cluster everything together – water, drainage, and electrical services.

As for the downsides, there isn’t enough countertop space and there’s no classic kitchen triangle for workplace efficiency.

2. Corridor Kitchen Layout

You’ll frequently find this style of kitchen inside of apartments, condos, and small homes. This is where there are two walls facing each other, like a hall or corridor. All your appliances and services are along the two walls.

Then the third wall that connects the two wall is there for placing shelves or nothing at all. The advantage of this kitchen layout is that it’s very functional. You get the classic kitchen triangle for efficiency in the kitchen.

There’s also added space for cabinets and counters, allowing for plenty of storage space.

However, on the downside, the workspaces can feel a bit crowded since the aisle is typically narrow. It’s not the best kitchen design if you’re planning to have more than one cook at a time.

The third wall is normally short, which makes it useless for cabinetry, counters, or anything else that can make your cooking space more functional.

3. L-Shaped Kitchen Layout

This is a very common kitchen design you’ll find in many homes. It’s kind of the standard layout for a kitchen. Therefore, you’ll find many cabinets manufactured in this fashion (10 ft by 10 ft).

In this design, you have four walls – two of them have countertops and kitchen services. And the other two are open and normally not used. However, you can place shelves and additional cabinets or countertops here if you want.

This layout comes with the kitchen triangle and lots of countertop space. You can also go ahead and install a kitchen island for additional storage and prep space.

The downside is the space between one wall to the other wall can be far. So, getting back and forth from the sink to the stove may be annoying. There are also issues with blind corners. Wall and corner base cabinets may also be hard to reach.

4. Double-L Kitchen Layout

What’s great about this kitchen layout is the fact you get not just one, but two workstations. You can achieve this design by creating an L-shaped or one-wall kitchen with a kitchen island that contains a sink, stove top, or both.

The advantage in this layout is that a lot of your countertop space is on the island, which is wide (about 24.5 inches deep). This setup makes it easy for two cooks to be in the kitchen at once because there are separate workstations.

The downside is that you need sufficient floor space to pull off installing the island in the middle.

5. U-Shaped Kitchen Layout

In a way, this kitchen design is like the corridor-style design, but the third wall has countertops and kitchen services. The fourth wall is an opening for access to the kitchen.

This kitchen comes with the triangle workspace, so this makes the workflow easy. There’s also plenty of space for additional cabinets for added storage.

If you’re looking for a kitchen island addition, this won’t work unless you have plenty of square footage. In most cases, this design has at least 48” of space between the two walls.

Remodeling Your Kitchen with the Help of Contractors

Are you ready to get started planning to your kitchen remodeling project? There’s a lot of planning that goes into this so it’s best to do it with the assistance of professionals.

At Fairfax Kitchen and Bath, we have design experts who can help with the design of your kitchen remodel. Our licensed contractors can provide a 3D design of your new kitchen before you even start.

We can also supply many of the materials and products for the job. You can visit our local showroom to see our selection of stone countertops, which include granite, marble, and quartz.

There’s also a great line of cabinets, knobs & pulls, hardwood floors, tile, carpet, vanities, and backsplashes to choose from. All our goods come backed with brand warranties for your safeguarding.

No job is too large or too small for us. If you’re looking to have your kitchen remodeled with the finest products in the market, then don’t hesitate to stop by our showroom.

Free estimates are also available so don’t hesitate to give us a call!

Planning to Renovate? Follow these Kitchen Remodeling Steps

Remodeling any area of your home requires lots of planning and organization. If you go into it without a strategic plan, you could end up paying more than you bargained for.

There’s a lot you must go through, such as picking out the products and materials, hiring a contractor, and ensuring everything goes according to plan.

So, to help ensure your remodeling project goes as seamless as possible, we decided to put together this guide.

Let’s look at some of the steps you should take when remodeling your kitchen.

Questions to Ask Yourself

You want everything to go smoothly, but the only way this is going to happen is if you’re well-prepared…mentally. And the best way to get here is to ask yourself the right questions.

For example, what are your needs and desires? For instance, are you looking to remodel your kitchen to make it more organized, more modern, or to add value to your property?

So, if you have run down cabinetry, you may want to rip these out and replace them with something more durable.

Another question you should ask yourself is whether the kitchen remodeling project is worth the hassle. You shouldn’t go into a major overhaul just for the sake of doing it. There should be a pretty good reason so that you’ll stick through the project until the end.

Keep in mind that your kitchen will be in turmoil during the remodeling process. In some cases, it can take weeks to get everything done, which means you’ll have to make other plans for cooking.

Lastly, ask yourself how far you want to go with the remodel. You may start off wanting a simple face lift with new counters and cabinets. Then by the end, you’re knocking down walls and adding plumbing for a new sink in a kitchen island you weren’t planning for.

Select a Kitchen Design

Now that you have a better idea of what you’re doing, it’s time to begin designing your cooking space. If you’re not planning to do any updates to the layout of your kitchen, then creating a new design shouldn’t be difficult.

All you’re doing is giving the intended areas the upgrades you want. For instance, changing out the countertops, cabinets, appliances, floors, wall paint, and adding backsplashes.

Just make sure that if you do decide to make structural changes, such as adding a kitchen island, that you keep the classic workflow model. The kitchen triangle should be existent, so that you can reach the sink, stove, and fridge easily.

This will keep your workflow quick and easy in the kitchen.

As for planning the design of your kitchen, you can work with a design expert from a remodeling company or you can use software to get the job done. There is various inexpensive kitchen design software you can use.

Another option is to use book-based design packages that come with cardboard punch-outs you can use for your cabinets and appliances.

By far, your best bet is to go with a professional design from a remodeling company.

Hiring a Contractor vs DIY

Here’s the million-dollar question – should I hire a contractor or do it myself? If you’re a homeowner, you grow accustomed to doing things yourself. And in some cases, you’re the best person for the job.

However, when it comes to an extensive remodeling project, you should think twice about trying to pull it off on your own. Unless, of course, you have experience in the areas you’re remodeling, such as assembling and installing cabinets.

While you’re saving money on labor costs for installing the products in your new kitchen, it won’t come with the warranties you’d otherwise get by hiring a contractor. You’re also not guaranteed to have a professional-looking outcome.

Contractors give special attention to detail that comes with many years of experience. It also doesn’t hurt to have an expert on site that can take care of other problems that may arise, such as with your electrical wiring or plumbing.

Shopping Around for the Best Quotes

If you decide to go with a kitchen remodeling contractor, then it’s best to shop around for the best one. This all comes down to the experience and pricing being offered. Now, it’s ill-advised for you to go with the cheapest option simply because they’re cheaper.

Make sure they’re a legit company with a track record of customer satisfaction. Also, be sure the contractor is licensed, bonded, and insured, along with anyone else working on site for your remodel.

After receiving a list of quotes from local contractors, you can interview them and see who’s the best fit.

Hiring a Contractor for Your Kitchen Remodel

Now that you have a road map for planning your kitchen remodel, it’s time to get a contractor on your team. The licensed professionals at Fairfax Kitchen and Bath are insured, experienced, and ready to help.

For years, we’ve worked on properties throughout Virginia, including Fairfax, DC, Vienna, Falls Church, and Springfield. Our top priority is to ensure our customers are pleased with the work we provide.

The products we have available come backed with brand warranties to ensure your purchases are secured. We also carry products from leading brands in the industry to ensure you’re getting nothing but top quality.

You can visit our local showroom to look at the items we have available. This includes various lines of granite, marble, and quartz countertops. Other products we have on hand include cabinets, carpets, vanities, hardwood, knobs & pulls, backsplashes, and tile.

When you work with us, you’re getting a one-stop shopping experience for all your kitchen remodeling needs. Get in touch with us today to get started with your free estimate!

Unique Light Styles to Choose for Your Kitchen Remodeling Project

So, you’ve decided to do a bit of kitchen remodeling for your home. There’s a lot you must pinpoint when it comes to the design. For instance, if you’re doing a complete overhaul, then you must determine which materials you’ll use for your countertops, floors, and cabinetry.

And while these are some of the more obvious areas of the kitchen that you redecorate, there’s another commonly overlooked fixture – the lights.

Now, you can choose to opt for simple replacements or you can go as far as to make additions. You’ll find that there are plenty of different light fixture styles to choose from, which is great.

In this quick guide, we’ll go over some of the options you have available. Hopefully, this will give you a better understanding of your choices, so you can make a more informed decision.

Recessed Lights for Your Kitchen Remodel

Recessed lights are quite popular among homeowners because they offer a sleek look. It’s the ideal lighting system to add to a kitchen with a modern design.

What’s also attractive about recessed lights is the fact they don’t take up much space. Yet, if you install enough of them in the right areas, you can really light up your cooking space.

Illumination is everything in the kitchen, especially if you have prep areas, such as an island. An expert designer can help you figure out the best areas to place your recessed lights.

Homeowners that want lights that are practically invisible will find recessed lights to be an optimal choice. About 90% of the light is invisible. The only thing you can see are the trim, lens, and bulb.

Side Lights Offer an Intriguing Light-wash Effect

Here’s another lighting idea for those designing modern kitchens. You’ll find that side lights are a great addition if you’re looking for a light-washed look. These styles of lights are placed in notches along the wall.

The light shines downward versus outward, which gives the floors more shine than the rest of the room. However, this doesn’t take away from the lights ability to illuminate the space.

This is a great idea for those looking for secondary lights for setting the mood during a romantic dinner. However, if this isn’t really your style, then consider installing side lights on the ceiling.

This will give you excellent indirect ambient lighting. If you’re into the hidden light look, then you’ll like that these are even more hidden than recessed lights (95%). All you can see is the trim. The lens, bulb, and body are all invisible in this set up.

The downside to using these lights on your walls is that it’s eating up valuable wall space you could otherwise use for cabinetry and shelves.

Tray Ceiling Lights for Seductive Lighting

Ambient lights can really set the mood but in a kitchen setting it gives a dreamy cottage-home feel. The soft lighting is excellent for entertaining guests. Tray ceiling lights are sometimes even decorated with Christmas string lights.

It’s a clever lighting system you can use in many ways for your kitchen remodeling project. To make this design work, you’ll need a contractor that can build open air soffits above your walls.

Then rope lighting is installed into the soffits to shower ambient light upon your cooking space. A small gap is left to allow light to shine through. It’s not a complicated system, nor is it expensive. Yet, it offers a luxurious appeal for modern kitchen designs.

And what’s even better about tray lights is that 100% of the light is invisible. The only downside here is the money you’ll have to spend to have the trays built by a professional.

Recessed Floor Lights for Contemporary Kitchen Remodel

Recessed lights are the bee’s knees. But how far will you go with them in your kitchen remodel? If you’re looking to add even more fixtures for enhanced lighting, then why not go with recessed floor lights?

This is a unique way to add an ambient effect during romantic dinners and dinner dates with your friends. It’s something you’d want to use during special occasions, since they offer more of an effect, than pure illumination.

Guaranteed, you’ll get more than a few compliments from your guests when they see this set up.

Keep in mind this may not be doable in your kitchen depending on the model and design of your home. It’s better to do this in a new-construction property. Otherwise, it can be rather difficult to retrofit them.

Drop Ceiling Soffit Lights for a Unique Design

Next, we have another rare kitchen lighting design you can implement into your kitchen remodeling project. You won’t find this used in many homes, which gives you a great way to make your kitchen stand out.

To pull this off, though, you’ll need ample ceiling height to accommodate the hanging lights. You can either choose a dropped soffit with hidden lights or exposed lights, up to you.

Those looking for hidden light styles will love the fact these fixtures are 100% hidden. It offers a soft ambient light that’s perfect for contemporary kitchens.

Hire a Professional for Your Kitchen Remodel

The lights are only one aspect of your kitchen renovation. You’re going to need expert help for the installation of all your fixtures and materials you buy from the remodel.

At Fairfax Kitchen and Bath, we have a team of licensed, bonded, and insured contractors that can both fabricate and install the products for your renovation. We sell beautiful stone countertops, backsplashes, tile, hardwood, faucets, and sinks.

You can visit our local showroom to see our products in person. You can also give us a call to get started with your free estimate for product fabrication and installation.

Want a 1950s Kitchen Design? Then Try these Kitchen Remodeling Ideas!

There’s something about the 1950s era that prompts homeowners to design their kitchens in similar décor. It seems that every now and then, old styles become new again. And it’s the same for the 50s kitchen look.

If you’re mesmerized by the quaint generation and want to implement it into your upcoming kitchen remodeling project, then this article is for you.

Let’s look at what you can do to achieve the 1950s look for your cooking space.

Bright Cheery Colors & Steel Cabinetry

If you’re a millennial, then you’ve likely never seen cabinets made of anything other than wood, laminate veneers, and plywood. However, there was a time when cabinetry was made with steel.

Now, this doesn’t sound very appealing, but as you could imagine, this made the cabinets quite durable. And to make them more homely feeling, they were oftentimes painted bright, cheerful colors like orange, blue, green, and yellow.

This was the generation that incorporated bright colors into home décor for the first time. Blame it on the need to cheer things up in America during World War II. Then there’s the fact that there was plenty of steel to go around (and at cheap rates) since we were still in war-production mode.

Sheet metal became the staple of cabinet designs. Particleboard didn’t come about until the 1970s. Also, the wall oven was first gaining popularity currently. Of course, there wasn’t an automatic dishwasher yet.

You may also be able to get away with having a built-in stove top installed in the cabinet countertop.

Open Floor Plans, Suspended Cabinets, and Peninsulas

Before there were kitchen islands, there were peninsulas. And just as you’d imagine, it’s a kitchen island that’s attached to a wall. Above these islands, you’d typically find suspended cabinets attached to the same wall.

This is a great look if you’re trying to incorporate more of a modern design for your kitchen remodel. At this time, you started to see more homes with open floor plans as well.

So, if you’re looking for an open layout for your kitchen, you can definitely do so while still incorporating a 50s vibe.

Built-In Appliances

The 1950s was when electric appliances started to come into play. We went away from the gas stoves to electric ovens and stoves. But what also happened at this time was more kitchen designs with built-in appliances.

No more protruding fridges and stoves. This made the workspace in the kitchen a lot easier to maneuver. You’ll even find some homes equipped with built-in dishwashers.

Rustic Wood Kitchen Designs

Rustic wood first reared its head in kitchen settings during the 1950s. You’ll find old photos in magazines of kitchens with knotty pine (late 1950s). Currently, it wasn’t as popular as steel, but starting to catch the interest of the public.

If you’re going for a more modern retro 50s look, then rustic wood cabinets and countertops is a great choice. It gives warmth and relaxation to the space, much like you’d find in a vacation home.

Resilient Floors and Laminate Counters

Back in the day, many of the kitchen floors was made with linoleum. This material was first introduced in the 1950s and quickly replaced sheet vinyl by the 1960s and 1970s.

This too offers a more retro 1950s vibe if that’s what you’re going for. You can find this is an array of colors. A lot of homeowners liked linoleum because it’s soft underfoot, easy to maintain, and doesn’t shatter dishes that fall.

Today, you’ll find some homeowners installing linoleum over plastic laminates, ceramic, and sheet vinyl. As for the counters, the 1950s saw a lot of laminate countertops popping up in kitchen designs. And you’ll still see it in kitchens today.

However, if you want to go with something more durable, like natural or engineered stone, you can get away with this while the rest of your kitchen is 50s themed.

Country-Style Kitchen

Not every homeowner wants sleek, contemporary kitchen designs. If this is you, then you should opt for a country-style design.

In this case, you can go with a rural-country design. For example, you can have a room divider, rooster, and wooden cabinets with hinges made of iron.

This is the style you’d find prior to World War II.

Eat-In Kitchen Design

The eat-in kitchen style also began in the 1950s, which is great news if you’re looking to keep your kitchen table. Before this time, families ate inside of the dining area only.

In the 50s, you’d see a small table in the kitchen and the larger table in the dining room.

In this design, you can go with the steel cabinets, fridge with the rounded-off corners, L-shaped design, and linoleum floors (maybe something like red or green).

Space-Saving Ideas for the Kitchen

A lot of innovations were made in the kitchen during the 1950s. This includes the implementation of lazy Susans, roll-out trash bins, and breakfast nooks.

Remember, kitchens back then were rather small, so these additions were great for adding functionality. If you’re working with limited space, this may work for you as well.

Designing Your Kitchen Remodel

Ready to get started with designing your 1950s kitchen? Then allow us to help. The licensed contractors at Fairfax Kitchen and Bath are licensed, bonded and insured. Plus, we have many materials you can use for your kitchen remodel.

We specialize in stone countertops made from engineered quartz, marble, and quartz. Plus, we have different varieties of cabinets to choose from. You can visit our local showroom to see some of the options we have available firsthand.

Give us a call today to get your free estimate!

The Most Durable Floors to Use for Your Kitchen Upgrade

There comes a time when you must do a bit of kitchen renovating to make your home look great. Various areas of the kitchen get a lot of wear and tear, but nothing gets worn like your floors. This is especially so if you have a family with children and pets.

Thankfully, kitchen remodeling is made easy when you have reliable contractors on your team. With the right materials and expert help, your kitchen floors will look amazing. But which type of flooring should you choose?

Well, if you’re looking to do a kitchen upgrade using durable flooring, then there are key materials you should consider. Let’s look.

Ceramic Tile for Your Kitchen Redo

One material you should consider using for your kitchen floors is ceramic. It’s a manufactured product that’s made to be resilient, tough, and resistant to stains and water.

What more can you want for your kitchen flooring? It’s important that your floors remain functional even if you spill water onto it. The kitchen can also get hot, especially around the stove and oven.

Ceramic tile does an excellent job at resisting heat and breakage. Also, the appearance is easy to maintain under normal conditions. In this case, ceramic tile can last as for many years or decades. You can find ceramic tile in a variety of colors, faux natural patterns, sizes, shapes, and mosaics.

Concrete Floors for Your Kitchen Renovation

Here’s an obvious choice that many homeowners overlook because concrete isn’t exactly synonymous with beauty or luxury. However, concrete has come a long way, allowing homeowners access to an inexpensive option that can look rather nice.

How? It’s all about the polish and stain you apply. You can turn a drab slab into a vibrant masterpiece with the help of a seasoned professional.

This way, you can have a stylish floor that’s attractive, as well as long-lasting. In many cases, homeowners already have a slab of concrete sitting right beneath their current floors. If this is the case, then you won’t have to lay down or pour cement. Just have it polished and stained the color you want.

Natural Stone for Your Kitchen Remodel

If you like the idea of a hard floor surface but don’t want to go with cement slabs, why not opt for stone instead? This adds a special touch to your kitchen design all because the floors have beautiful veins and specks.

The beauty of natural stone is that no two slabs are the same. This means every tile will have its own unique pattern. And what’s also great is that stone is very durable and long-lasting.

One thing to note is that the surface is porous, which makes it susceptible to stains. But don’t let this deter you. You can easily have it sealed so that liquids can no longer penetrate it. This is important in a kitchen setting when spills occur regularly.

The stone you choose will determine the hardness, scratch resistance, and overall durability. For instance, slate and granite can last decades after being sealed.

Sandstone and travertine, on the other hand, are more likely to have wear and tear over time but still lasts decades. The quickest to degrade is marble, especially polished marble. This is easily stained and scratched.

Hardwood Floors for Your Kitchen Makeover

The warmth of hardwood floors will likely always captivate homeowners everywhere. If you’re one who adores wooden floors, then you to may consider it for your kitchen redo.

If that’s the case, then you’ll find plenty of beautiful options to select from. Some include cherry, maple, oak, and birch. There are many brands to choose from that offer high-quality textures and styles.

Hardwood is a great choice for the kitchen because it’s long-lasting and durable. But this is only so if it’s treated with polyurethane-based finishes. This will keep it from warping and tearing down due to moisture and humidity.

Do keep in mind that the hardwood will stain and wear down over time. It all comes down to how well you maintain it and if you can keep from having too many spills on the surface.

Bamboo Floors for Your Kitchen Renovation

Here’s another wood option you can choose for your kitchen design. Bamboo is growing in popularity because it’s a bit harder and more resistant to water damage and moisture.

However, the downside is that it’s not as easy to refinish like with hardwood. This is because it doesn’t have natural grain direction.

Vinyl Floors for Your Kitchen Remodel

Another popular choice for the kitchen is vinyl tile. It’s one of the most versatile options on the market today. It comes in all sorts of colors, textures, and designs. Plus, it’s very durable since it’s capable of resisting stains, damage, and water.

By properly maintaining it with regular sweeping, mopping and vacuuming, you can keep the floor looking like new for a very long time. In many cases, vinyl floors can last upwards of 20 years.

In many cases, homeowners begin to see wear and tear around the 7 to 10-year mark for active kitchens.

Kitchen Remodeling for Your Home

You’re on the search for a set of new floors for your home, which means you need a reliable contractor for the job. Now only does Fairfax Kitchen and Bath have licensed, bonded and insured contractors, but we also have quality products you can use for your kitchen remodel.

We act as a one-stop shop for our customers, allowing them to get everything they need in one place. You’ll find a great selection of flooring options, which include tile, stone, and hardwood.

It’s a good idea to visit our showroom so you can see our products firsthand. Once you choose the product you want, we’ll fabricate it for your home and then install it. We work quickly and with precision to ensure you have quality new floors you’re satisfied with.

Contact us today to see how we can help renovate your kitchen floors!

Choosing the Best Finish for Kitchen Cabinets

Kitchen cabinets contribute significantly to the function and design of your kitchen, so you should pay special attention to choosing the best you can get. While you probably give due consideration to the size, style, and color, chances are you have no strong opinions about the finish. That can be a mistake, as each type of finish will have a dramatic effect on the cabinet’s esthetics. Below is a quick description of available finishes for kitchen cabinets, and some tips for choosing the right one for you.

Coating options

Most cabinets will have some type of coating to protect it from the elements. No matter what type of materials from which your kitchen cabinets are made, there is a coating material that will work for it. Solid wood cabinets, for instance, can do very well with just a simple coating of oil to keep out moisture. You can also use polyurethane, either clear or tinted, to provide a more substantial seal if you want.
For medium density fiberboard, particleboard, or other types of manufactured board materials, you can use either paint or polyurethane. Paint manufacturers offer products specific for kitchen use, so you can use that. If you use polyurethane, two coats are usually sufficient to add a protective coat to the cabinets. You can also use vinyl wraps, laminates or veneers to give the cabinets an entirely new look or to match other elements in your kitchen. For example, if you have particleboard cabinets, you may want it to have a wood veneer that matches your hardwood floors.
Whatever type of coating you use, it will still give you options for the actual finish. It may be high gloss, semi-gloss, or matte finish. Below is a brief description of the pros and cons of each finish.

High Gloss

A high gloss finish is the most common finish for many homeowners. It began trending in the nearly 50 years ago, and it is still very popular today. It is most suitable for modern-style kitchens with their flat-paneled cabinets, and particularly white contemporary kitchen.
This is because a high gloss finish, also known as 100% gloss or ultra-high gloss, is very shiny and reflects light very well. By doing so, it makes any space look lighter, bigger, and more open. This makes it a good choice for small, dark kitchens, because reflecting the light keeps the dark colors from absorbing the light in the room. Naturally enough, lighter colors tend to reflect more light, so white cabinets will reflect the most light.

High-gloss finished cabinets are also very easy to clean, a clear benefit for busy homeowners. You simply need to wipe it down with a soft, clean cloth, and any dirt will slide right off.
However, a high-gloss finish will also reflect colors of other surfaces in the room, which can change the look of your cabinets. If your kitchen or nearby room has a number of strong colors, you may not get the effect you want from your cabinets, especially white cabinets. In addition, a high gloss finish easily picks up and shows fingerprints and dirt, although it just as easily wipes off as mentioned earlier. Showing up imperfections and scratches in dark colored cabinets are not so easy to remove, though, so if you prefer a high gloss finish, choose lighter colors for your cabinets.

Matte

 At the opposite end of the spectrum from high gloss is the matte finish. A matte finish will not reflect light at all, and looks quite flat compared to a gloss finish. It is the most popular finish for country or traditional style kitchens, which typically have more decorative cabinet doors than cabinets found in contemporary kitchens.
That is not to say that a matte finish would not look good in modern-style cabinets, however, A matte-finished flat cabinets imparts character and depth to the surface, which is why the matte finish is more popular than gloss in European countries.
The best thing about a matte finish is it renders imperfections, scratches, fingerprints, and dirt less obvious than with a gloss finish. They may be there, but you don’t see it as plainly because there is no light reflecting off the surface, you also get a more uniform look to cabinet fronts with a matte finish because of this lack of reflecting quality. On the other hand, this means it is no help at all in making a dark kitchen look any brighter or bigger, and some people may find the muted appearance of this finish as dull and uninteresting. In addition, a matte finish is just a tad harder to clean than a gloss finish because it is not completely smooth, but not all that much.

Semi-gloss

 A happy medium between these two extremes is the semi-gloss finish. It combines the benefits of high gloss and matte finishes, including the ability to reflect light, hide imperfections on the cabinet surfaces to some degree, and keep clean. This is a great option for any kitchen style and cabinet color, and a good compromise if you are unable to commit to any other finish.
When you are in decision limbo when deciding on your new kitchen cabinets, or trying to get it together for your kitchen remodel, you need an expert and reliable contractor. Fairfax Kitchen Bath guarantees you will love it for life. We sell only top quality products for all your kitchen remodeling needs, including custom and RTA cabinets in different finishes, manufactured by leading brands in the industry.
When you contract with us, you can be sure you will get a quick turnaround on your products, and receive it much faster than ordering what you need from big box stores. We specialize in carrying out kitchen remodeling projects within budget and on time.
We carry the products you need for your kitchen renovation, from natural and engineered stone slabs, cabinets, shelves, sinks, faucets tiles, backsplashes, knobs and pulls, and hardwood flooring. We carry only the top brands for these products, such as Schrock Cabinetry, Silestone, Blanco, Kohler, and Mosaic Décor.

You can see the products before you buy so you can decide for yourself if the quality is what you expect. We have a showroom in Fairfax, Virginia, which houses all our products.
Our products come with manufacturer warranties that ensure your satisfaction with the quality and installation.
Fairfax Kitchen Bath services the DC, MD and Northern Virginia metropolitan areas. We are a Class A, licensed and insured contractor, registered in the Commonwealth of Virginia.

Contact us today to get a free quote for your kitchen remodeling project.

Top Trends for Kitchen Renovations in 2018

Investing in a complete kitchen remodeling is a good idea. It can increase the value of your home considerably if you plan to sell it at some point. It is an even better idea if you plan to stay in the home for a long time, because a kitchen remodel can make it a more efficient workplace. However, a kitchen should be both esthetically pleasing as well as functional. Styles and design trends evolve, so something that was all the rage a decade ago may be out of date today. To help you update your kitchen the right way and maximize your investment, take note of these top trends for kitchen renovations in 2018.

Open shelves

 Cabinets are great, but open shelves are becoming quite cutting-edge in the design department. Many designers prefer it for many kitchens, which makes it a hot trend in 2018. However, you have to be careful. Open kitchen shelving looks great when properly staged, but not all homeowners have display-worthy dinnerware or anything like that. It can still work quite well if you choose the right kind of shelves and organize what you put in them properly.

The move to condo unit and small apartments have fueled this trend because of the space constraints. Open shelves are particularly good in small kitchens, because it makes the space look bigger by letting in more light and air. You can make use of awkward corners and every available space quite easily. They also promote more efficiency because you can easily find and grab what you need without having to open several cabinets.
You do need to be mindful about what you place on these shelves, though. Cabinet doors can hide your mess, but not open shelves. Each bowl and glass has to contribute to the overall look of the kitchen, so mismatched glasses and dinnerware has no place in it. The benefit of this is promoting a minimalist lifestyle, which is really shaping kitchen designs today. You only keep what you use and give away anything you don’t. You can have base cabinets to store stuff you cannot part with, but it is not an efficient use of much-needed space. Open shelves promote a simpler, less stressful work environment. It may take some time to get used to having everything out in the open, but it will be worth it in the end.

Farmhouse sinks

Farmhouse sinks are large and deep, which is a popular replacement for double sinks for kitchens today. Double sinks occupy more space than necessary, considering the modern lifestyle that makes two sinks redundant. Farmhouse sinks are more space efficient and comfortable to use, able to accommodate large pots and baking trays. If your kitchen design doesn’t really go with an apron front, you can choose a larger undermounted sink instead. Either type will look great with natural stone or engineered countertops. If you do feel the need for a prep sink, consider putting in a small one in the kitchen island, or at the end of your counter. Separating the main and prep sinks lets more than one person work in the kitchen without bumping into each other.

Fun faucets

Speaking of sinks, a hot trend in updating the kitchen is including some great looking hardware in the budget. Invest in high-quality innovative faucet designs that will make a bit of a splash in the looks department, easily making your kitchen more awesome. Some come with an arm you can extend all the way to the stove to fill pots, and others come with high-pressure sprayers. Choose a faucet that speaks to your fancy and whimsy.

Tech savvy

You definitely need to incorporate some technology into your kitchen counters and cabinets. A smart kitchen where microwave ovens talk to refrigerators may still be out of reach for most people, but you can make it easier to keep your gadgets handy with built-in charging and docking stations for your tablets and smartphones. You might even put in some cameras, lights and music players you can control wirelessly.

LED lights

LED lights are awesome technological innovations that make your kitchen energy efficient and esthetically pleasing. Aside from your central and work lights, you may want to look into putting under cabinet LED lights in your design. They look fantastic, and they are easy to install. You can choose bars, strips, or pucks, and they make it easier to work and play. If you have an open floor layout, the right lighting can introduce the right mood and make your kitchen an awesome entertainment center.

Conclusion

Kitchen design has evolved in interesting ways over time. Advanced technology has changed the taste and needs of homeowners, so it is always a good idea to incorporate some of these trends into your kitchen renovations in 2018.
Kitchen remodeling is a massive undertaking, so you want a reliable contractor and supplier to help you make a success of it. Fairfax Kitchen Bath guarantees you will love it for life. We sell only top-quality products for all your kitchen remodeling needs manufactured by leading brands in the industry.

When you contract with us, you can be sure you will get a quick turnaround on your products, and receive it much faster than ordering what you need from big box stores. We specialize in fabricating kitchen countertops to specifications, and installing them within budget and on time.
We carry the products you need for your kitchen renovation, from natural and engineered stone slabs, cabinets, shelves, sinks, faucets tiles, backsplashes, knobs and pulls, and hardwood flooring. We carry only the top brands for these products, such as Schrock Cabinetry, Silestone, Blanco, Kohler, and Mosaic Décor.

You can see the products before you buy so you can decide for yourself if the quality is what you expect. We have a showroom in Fairfax, Virginia which houses all our products, including actual granite, marble and engineered stone slabs from which you can choose.
Our products come with manufacturer warranties that ensure your satisfaction with the quality and installation.
Fairfax Kitchen Bath services the DC, MD and Northern Virginia metropolitan areas. We are a Class A, licensed and insured contractor, registered in the Commonwealth of Virginia.

Contact us today to get a free quote for your trendy kitchen remodeling project.