The Ten Most Popular Kitchen Designs and Features of 2021

 

Throughout 2021, most homeowners resonated with natural materials, outdoor space connections, wood beams, kitchen islands, soft blues, gorgeous greens, and more. Read on to countdown some of the hottest trends of 2021.

10) Sage Is the Rage: Sage accents were everywhere during 2021. From drawers and cabinets to backsplashes, this soothing color created a peaceful environment for kitchens everywhere.

9) Neat Nook: Breakfast nooks took center stage and served as an informal version of a conventional kitchen table. Sophisticated and no-nonsense, nooks were adorned with brass finishes and backsplash tile in 2021.

8) Island Blue: Kitchen islands were a perfect way for owners to showcase a splash of color different from the rest of the cabinets. Blue seemed to be a popular choice, as it provided a striking contrast to white and grey.

7) Rustic Wood: X-shape beams in coffered ceilings were a big trend, as the wooden material added warmth and texture to the room. Wood accents also made rooms feel more extensive and open.

6) Herb Garden: Whether it was cabinet colors, pendant lighting, custom vent hoods, or quartz counters, shades of green were seen splashed throughout kitchens in 2021.

5) Window Haven: Impressive window banks were installed throughout kitchens in 2021, showcasing the natural outdoors and letting the seasonal changes influence the overall color scheme.

4) Kitchen Hub: Islands in the kitchen can include sinks, dishwashers, trash containers, recycling pullouts, seating, storage, cabinets, and much more. Family members and guests can hang out in the kitchen while seated at islands without getting in the cook’s way.

3) White + Wood: Rich colors in wood tones such as hickory, pine, and oak were seen contrasting with white cabinets, backsplashes, or marble countertops. Kitchens also took on an industrial look with bright lighting, black fixtures, and stainless steel appliances.  

2) Mix or Match: While many kitchens in 2021 were focused on clean, streamlined looks, some utilized the playful alternative by featuring bold accent colors throughout.

1) Gathered Assembly: The most popular trend in 2021 creates a style that is unique to each homeowner. Whether it was glass-front cabinets mixed with raw wood ceilings or blue cabinets and white countertops, kitchens saw a pop of color and life rather than being too sterile.

JFC Remodeling is committed to providing top-quality home reconstruction services to clients throughout Livingston County. With over 30 years of experience in the industry, our licensed contractors create unique, individualized, and polished renovations. Whether the site requires an improvement, repair, or is a new construction, you can trust our experts to deliver remarkable results. Call: 810-923-1123, e-mail: jfcllc@comcast.net, or visit us at: www.jfcremodeling.com today.

Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.

Low-Maintenance Kitchen Finishes

 

Let’s face it; kitchens get a lot of action. To keep your cooking area clean and tidy, it’s essential to pay attention to the types of finishes used throughout the space. Are you tired of scrubbing your flooring, hardware, cabinets, and more? Read on to learn how you can reduce your cleaning time by using these easy-to-maintain finishes.

Flooring

·         Ceramic or porcelain tile is best for high-traffic areas and wet zones, a.k.a. kitchens. Their moisture resistance is unmatched, and they are highly resilient to scratching and staining. Another added bonus? Unlike natural stone, you don’t have to seal ceramic or porcelain tile or use special cleaning agents.

·         Vinyl is ideal in kitchens as it can handle moisture, spills, stains, and more. Cleanup is quick and easy; it is also difficult to scratch. Without grout lines, there is no place for dirt and grime to hide and accumulate.

Cabinets

·         Flat-panel doors are so chic right now. The less door detail, the less grime and grease. Since the surface of flat panel doors doesn’t have raised grooves or deep recessions, they are super easy to wipe and clean.

·         Shaker doors are a great alternative to flat panels. These add a touch of detail yet are easy to maintain.

Backsplashes

·         Ceramic and porcelain are again the clear winners here, as they are nonporous and repel water, don’t require sealing, and are generally durable.

·         Glass is super easy to wipe down, thanks to its smooth finish. Though their highly reflective surface shows grease and food more than tile, solid-glass sheets allow you to forgo grout as well, which is a huge advantage.

Hardware

·         Brushed nickel is superior to most metals since its matte finish helps to hide water spots and fingerprints. It’s easy to clean and has a long-lasting appearance.

·         Oil-rubbed bronze doesn’t require much upkeep but does show fingerprints more.

 

Do you want to replace some of your kitchen finishes to help ease the upkeep? Contact the remodeling experts at JFC today.

JFC Remodeling is committed to providing top-quality home reconstruction services to clients throughout Livingston County. With over 30 years of experience in the industry, our licensed contractors create unique, individualized, and polished renovations. Whether the site requires an improvement, repair, or is a new construction, you can trust our experts to deliver remarkable results. Call: 810-923-1123, e-mail: jfcllc@comcast.net, or visit us at: www.jfcremodeling.com today.

Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.

Bathroom Design Blunders to Avoid

 

Remodeling your bathroom is a creative, exciting process that could bring out some stress and pressure. To ensure that your new bathroom will stay up-to-date through time, it’s ideal to find the best design for your lifestyle and budget.

Do you know the best placement for a toilet? Is it best to include windows? Is bigger better? All of these questions are valid – but do you know the answer for yourself? Read on to learn more.

Windows
Dark, damp bathrooms with little- to no circulation are so last season. Bathrooms are best suited for windows or a skylight, where fresh air and natural light can infiltrate the room. By making your space feel more open and lighter, the bright area will feel more comfortable.

Tucked Away
If your bathroom happens to be located in a space near a public area such as a dining room, living room, or kitchen, it might be helpful to create some separation between the rooms. If there is a straight-shot line of sight between the toilet and the kitchen table, for example, consider moving the toilet. By positioning the toilet deeper within the bathroom, rather than the first thing someone sees when they walk in, creates a feeling of a larger space.

Skip the Curb
Showers typically come with a six-inch (or so) curb, which keeps the water in the designated area. However, these curbs cause many trip-and-fall accidents in bathrooms, especially those that are wet and slippery. Curbless showers make bathrooms feel larger and cleaner. An additional bonus is that they reduce the number of tripping accidents.

Function Over Style
Great bathroom design is based on how it works rather than how it looks. First, ensure you have a more efficient, well-designed bathroom. Style can come second. Larger isn’t necessarily the best route when it comes to bathrooms. Functionality should be at the top of your list.

Do you want to remodel or build a new bathroom? Contact the bathroom contractor experts at JFC Remodeling today.

JFC Remodeling is committed to providing top-quality home reconstruction services to clients throughout Livingston County. With over 30 years of experience in the industry, our licensed contractors create unique, individualized, and polished renovations. Whether the site requires an improvement, repair, or is a new construction, you can trust our experts to deliver remarkable results. Call: 810-923-1123, e-mail: jfcllc@comcast.net, or visit us at: www.jfcremodeling.com today.

Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.

Seven Kitchen Island Features Recommended by Professionals

 

Kitchen islands are versatile, and the options are seemingly endless. While the advantages might seem straightforward, it can be overwhelming to choose from such a large number of possibilities. Kitchen islands can bring many benefits, including more storage, an extra countertop, a place for seating, improved circulation, another sink, cooking area, or more. Here are a few ideas for yours:

1)      Seating: The most commonly recommended use for a kitchen island is seating, as they become a gathering point for family and guests. From homework to snacks, seats can bring cohesiveness to your kitchen. Be mindful of the height of the seat itself, length, and spacing between chairs.

 

2)      Storage: Adding more space to your kitchen with cabinets can be a no-brainer, yet many kitchen islands are not double-sided. To maximize storage, your kitchen island can have cabinets included on the back side (beneath the stools) as well. These somewhat hidden cabinets can be ideal for storing holiday platters and other sparingly-used kitchen tools or gadgets.

 

3)      Outlets: If you use blenders, mixers, or simply want to charge your electronic devices, outlets can be a perfect addition to your kitchen island. You can also consider putting an outlet in a drawer or cabinet to hide devices while you’re rolling out a pie crust or chopping meat.

 

4)      Fridge: Cabinet or drawer fridges are perfect for grabbing a snack or drink without interrupting the overall kitchen workflow. Consider adding a small fridge at the end of the island furthest away from the chef’s hustle-and-bustle.

 

5)      Microwave: Serving a similar purpose as the fridge, place a microwave in an inconspicuous place so people can heat snacks without getting in the way. Additionally, by adding the microwave to your kitchen island, your cabinets or countertops will be free for more work surfaces and limit visual clutter.

 

6)      Sink: Two sinks might seem like overload for a kitchen, but if you designate one as a “prep sink” and the other for cooking or dishes, it eases the congestion around a single sink. Just imagine…no more dripping water between transfers from the sink to the island.

 

7)      Garbage: As with any main work area, it’s essential to have a trash can nearby. You can easily wipe food scraps or crumbs off the surface directly into the bin. Super convenient, this is also a great way to free up space throughout the rest of the kitchen.

Are you dreaming of adding a kitchen island? We can make your dreams a reality – contact us today!

JFC Remodeling is committed to providing top-quality home reconstruction services to clients throughout Livingston County. With over 30 years of experience in the industry, our licensed contractors create unique, individualized, and polished renovations. Whether the site requires an improvement, repair, or new construction, you can trust our experts to deliver remarkable results. Call: 810-923-1123, e-mail: jfcllc@comcast.net, or visit us at: www.jfcremodeling.com today.

Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.

Cleaning and Caring for Marble Surfaces

 

Nothing is quite like marble; the appearance of movement created by veining is distinctive to this popular, porous surface, which is notoriously susceptible to scratching and staining. Particularly where hard objects or high acidity is present – think kitchen knives or lemons – marble can easily succumb to etches and pits. Thankfully, caring for marble helps preserve its appearance and prevent surface damage.

Lemon juice, alcohol, or tomato juice all have a high acidic content. When these are dripped, splashed, or spilled on a marble surface and lingers for an extended time, the acid deteriorates the calcium carbonate in the stone, creating permanent damage. The dull, slightly dark rings or spots that result from this chemical reaction are called etchings. In some light, etching is more noticeable, and vice-versa.

Milk, juice, fruit, and alcohol can occasionally cause both etching and staining. To keep your marble looking like new, consider the following:

Avoid acidic solutions: Not only are the aforementioned foods acidic, but certain cleaning products can also deteriorate marble. According to the National Stone Institute, vinegar, lemon juice, and other surfactants should be avoided on marble. Mild soap and water are best, along with a non-abrasive sponge or cloth.

Seal properly: Spray a sealant at least once a month so penetration cannot occur as easily. While certain liquids (red wine) will still stain if left to sit overnight, the sealant will protect the marble if the liquid or juice is wiped up immediately.

Solutions for common stains:

-          Oil-based (grease, cooking oil, cosmetics): Cleanse the surface lightly with a soft liquid cleanser, household detergent, ammonia, or mineral spirits.

-          Organic (coffee, tea, fruit, food): Mix 12 percent hydrogen peroxide with a few drops of ammonia to wipe clean.

-          Rust stains (metals): These might be permanent and are extremely difficult to remove, and will need to be treated with a poultice, a paste-like cleaning agent sold commercially.

-          Paint stains: Lacquer thinner or razor blades can be used to remove small amounts carefully.

-          Smoke stains: Commercial products are available and used to remove these stains.

-          Water spots or rings: Use #0000 dry steel wool to buff these spots out.

Are you interested in getting marble countertops or marble tiles in your bathroom? Contact the renovation experts at JFC Remodeling today!

JFC Remodeling is committed to providing top-quality home reconstruction services to clients throughout Livingston County. With over 30 years of experience in the industry, our licensed contractors create unique, individualized, and polished renovations. Whether the site requires an improvement, repair, or is a new construction, you can trust our experts to deliver remarkable results. Call: 810-923-1123, e-mail: jfcllc@comcast.net, or visit us at: www.jfcremodeling.com today.

Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.

Five Ways to Prepare for a Bathroom Remodel

 

Bathroom remodeling can be exciting yet simultaneously excruciating. If you are prepared and know what to expect, the process can be somewhat seamless. Planning, organizing, readjusting, and scheduling can help make things go smoothly.

1)       Check (and double-check) the Construction Schedule: First and foremost, ensure your renovation is optimally lined up with the subcontractors who will be working on your project. These include but are not limited to: plumbers, carpenters, cabinetmakers, tile and flooring personnel, electricians, and more. Specific times will be crucial, as one late arrival or pushing over a date can send the entire schedule haywire. Also, remember to have all items ordered in advance such as faucets, showerheads, toilets, light fixtures, countertops, hardware, cabinetry, tile, etc.

2)       Familiarize Yourself with the Construction Process: Ensure there will be plastic sheeting laid out, that the dust will be collected, and determine where the materials will go when they arrive. Prepare the affected areas by removing or covering household items to prevent damage or getting dirty, and make sure your pets and children are safe. Also, find out about trash and whether a dumpster will be necessary. If parking is a factor, ensure your neighborhood has room for extra vehicles, and make sure there is a portable toilet available if needed. All of these things should be included and discussed in the initial quote.

3)       Streamline Bathroom Routines: The number of people using a bathroom in your house might double or triple, which will take some planning ahead. Share toiletries to cut down on the number of bottles in the shower. Schedule bathroom time to guarantee mornings aren’t hectic, or the water heater doesn’t run out of hot water after successive showers. Designate a desk, table, or caddy for extra toiletries including hair products, toothpaste, shave gel, foot powder, etc. Consider using over-the-door hooks to hang towels or use a freestanding towel rack to dry wet towels.

4)       Shower Somewhere Else: Though it might sound extreme, if you only have one bathroom, your shower or tub might be decommissioned for a while. If you are a gym member, take advantage of the locker room shower. Ask family members whether you can use their bathroom, as well.

5)       Focus on the Result: Renovating a bathroom while living in the house can be tumultuous, given construction zones are not exactly peaceful. If you are feeling overwhelmed, re-examine your mood boards and plans. There’s a light at the end of the dusty tunnel, and the results will be more than worth it!

Are you interested in remodeling your bathroom, kitchen, or other area within your home? Contact the experts at JFC Remodeling today to bring your dreams to life.

JFC Remodeling is committed to providing top-quality home reconstruction services to clients throughout Livingston County. With over 30 years of experience in the industry, our licensed contractors create unique, individualized, and polished renovations. Whether the site requires an improvement, repair, or new construction, you can trust our experts to deliver remarkable results. Call: 810-923-1123, e-mail: jfcllc@comcast.net, or visit us at: www.jfcremodeling.com today.

Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.

Six Ways to Create an Open Illusion in a Small or Windowless Bathroom

 

Bathrooms can sometimes be an afterthought when it comes to windows. This leaves many houses with a windowless bathroom that feels boxed in.

1)      Use Glass and Lucite: Without windows, you might want to decorate with objects that don’t absorb light. With a small amount of color and transparent yet functional pieces, Lucite is a perfect accessory on the counter. Glass is more delicate; either material is not only functional but can de-clutter your space with ease.

2)      Embrace White: One of the best ways to reflect light is to use white throughout the space. White accessories and furniture can be used instead of paint – think outside of the box and keep the room fresh by adding a breezy chair, delicate rug, fixtures, and more.

3)      Mirror, Mirror: Known to expand spaces, mirrors are great for creating distance or double the space visually. Full mirrors are especially handy for extending areas and, bonus, are super easy to install.

4)      Airy Vanity: These can sometimes be clunky and chunky aspects of the bathroom, but if you can store some bathroom items in a nearby closet, a longer, more open vanity will help the area feel less boxy. You can also add a towel shelf to open the space up.

 

5)      Fake It: Though your bathroom might not physically have a window, you could make it appear as though a window is there. If you add a bathroom shade in front of a blank wall and add a light behind it, it will give an illusion of a window.

 

6)      Lighting: Windows allow horizontal light in the room to balance overhead light, so without a window, vertical lighting can flatten the space. Wall fixtures offer another option for horizontal light and can bring a glow into your space.

Interested in remodeling your bathroom? Contact the reconstruction experts at JFC Remodeling today!

JFC Remodeling is committed to providing top-quality home reconstruction services to clients throughout Livingston County. With over 30 years of experience in the industry, our licensed contractors create unique, individualized, and polished renovations. Whether the site requires an improvement, repair, or is a new construction, you can trust our experts to deliver remarkable results. Call: 810-923-1123, e-mail: jfcllc@comcast.net, or visit us at: www.jfcremodeling.com today.

Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.

Seven Ways to Expand Your Kitchen’s Size

 

Kitchens are a place where people get together and enjoy each other’s company. Despite the actual size of your kitchen, there are tips and tricks to create extra room or give the illusion of a bigger space. While balancing storage, style, and functionality, here are some ideas worth implementing to expand your kitchen.

1)      Shallow cabinets: The standard 24-inch depth is not necessary. Most cabinet lines come in 12- or 15-inch depths, which are typically used for upper cabinets. Using a slimmer-sized cabinet for lower areas has its advantages. By opening floor space, it creates more room in a tight kitchen. While your storage might be reduced slightly, the backs of deep cabinets can be challenging to reach, anyway.

 

2)      Single sink: Double sinks have their uses but consider how much more counter or storage space you could have when you utilize a single sink. If your sink is centered on a window with not a lot of room on either side, it can create a “dead zone” that can’t accommodate much. If you use a smaller cabinet for the sink, it frees up room on either side, opening adjacent cabinets. It’s worth exploring if you don’t use that second sink bowl often.

 

3)      Compact dishwasher: Compact, or “condo-sized” dishwashers, 18-inches in width, are growing in popularity compared to the standard 24-inch-wide dishwashers. Smaller washers fill up faster, meaning they can be run on a full load more often. This is a perfect option for smaller households.

 

4)      Slim fridge: Typically, the large 36-inch models end up full of clutter or stay half empty. If you aren’t much of a chef or don’t shop for fresh produce frequently, try slimming down your fridge to 30 or 28 inches, leaving more room for other essentials.

 

5)      Panel appliances: Designed to be able to receive a design of your choosing, these appliances (fridges and dishwashers) blend into the look of your kitchen cabinets, making the area appear more fluid, larger, and airier.

 

6)      Shelves: A few open shelves can easily hold tableware, storage jars, bins, and cookbooks to expand the room’s feel. By removing the upper cabinets, helps to open a stuffy space.

 

7)      Glass doors: Most solid cabinet doors can be traded in for glass inserts, making way for a more expanded sensation. Glass doors can be frosted or clear while displaying attractive drinkware or other kitchen necessities.

 

Thinking of implementing some of these ideas or want to expand your kitchen even more?

Contact the kitchen remodeling experts at JFC Remodeling today.

 

JFC Remodeling is committed to providing top-quality home reconstruction services to clients throughout Livingston County. With over 30 years of experience in the industry, our licensed contractors create unique, individualized, and polished renovations. Whether the site requires an improvement, repair, or is a new construction, you can trust our experts to deliver remarkable results. Call: 810-923-1123, e-mail: jfcllc@comcast.net, or visit us at: www.jfcremodeling.com today.

Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.

Are Custom Cabinets and Furnishings Worth the Cost?

 

The small details are often overlooked yet are vital for a room’s appearance. To express cohesion and vitality, fabric patterns, art pieces, or custom-built cabinets can transform an awkward area into the highlight of the room. Why is it important to pay attention to the little things rather than go with the big-box-store cookie-cutter ideas? Read on to discover why….

Craftmanship
Custom-designed furniture, cabinets, or upholstered panels of curated fabric are works of art. The craftspeople who create these fine pieces have honed their skills over many years. Since they aren’t “ready-to-ship” or “put-it-together-yourself” pieces, a higher price point is often included. Crafting these unique pieces can take some time and serious effort. Some semi-custom cabinets aren’t drastically different in price than fully custom. If you’re receiving a bespoke, functional, and aesthetically pleasing item that makes your space more unified and harmonious, what’s not to love?

Shop Small and Support Local Business
Custom-designed pieces are fabricated and installed by professionals who typically have been in the industry for years, if not generations. Most often, these people are located in your own backyard. Hiring professionals puts money into your local economy and keeps artisans employed.

It’s All in the Details
Looking at straight lines and right angles can be similar to viewing perfection. With an eye for detail, these made-to-order custom designers will not only deliver substance but style as well. Having perfectly aligned framing creates an instant wow factor.

Bring it into Balance
Though custom-designed pieces can be pricier, one strategy is to counter-balance the price point in other areas. Try to keep your budget in check by shelling out more money for permanent architectural features and finishes rather than on furniture. Custom-built cabinets, shelving, fireplaces, ceiling details, etc., will all increase the value of your home. An expensive couch that is moveable, easily replaceable, and easily stained will not. Custom pillows can give an inexpensive sofa an updated, luxe finish. If you counter-balance the monetary costs and shop smart, custom-built pieces will be an easier purchase.

To discuss remodeling your kitchen, bathroom, or another living area, contact the experts at JFC Remodeling today. We can bring your space to life!

JFC Remodeling is committed to providing top-quality home reconstruction services to clients throughout Livingston County. With over 30 years of experience in the industry, our licensed contractors create unique, individualized, and polished renovations. Whether the site requires an improvement, repair, or is a new construction, you can trust our experts to deliver remarkable results. Call: 810-923-1123, e-mail: jfcllc@comcast.net, or visit us at: www.jfcremodeling.com today.

Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.

 

Five Trends in Bathroom Design

 

Whether you refer to them as bathrooms, restrooms, washrooms, or the lavatory, we all spend time in this (sometimes) fashionable room. Thanks to COVID-19, this year’s Kitchen & Bath Industry Show and International Builders’ Show were completely virtual. Keep reading to discover what’s to come in the world of 2021 bathroom design.

Freestanding Bathtubs
You can thank COVID-19 yet again for giving us more time in the restroom during 2020. The industry saw a significant increase in the number of people utilizing bathtubs, as more prominent companies reported a rise in bathtub interest, leading to sales. People who have been spending more time at home with their spouse or children often look to the tub as a retreat; a way to unwind behind a closed door. Freestanding tubs in particular have been a popular choice, and retailers have answered the call, offering different styles, heights, colors, and finishes.

LED Lighting
While LED bulbs aren’t exactly novel, the light fixtures, chandeliers, and strip lights are continuously making style advancements. Hidden LED lights in particular have been all the rage; some turn on when you open cabinets or cupboard doors, while others light up mirrors or shelves. Certain LED strips have been used to illuminate areas above bathtubs, around mirrors, and inside vanities. When used underneath bathtubs, hidden LED lighting gives them a unique floating appearance.

Filter Showerheads
Water pollution and chlorination isn’t just a factor for drinking water. People are growing more concerned about the dangers posed by unfiltered water when it comes to themselves or family members. From water purification filters to scented in-shower boosters, showerhead manufacturers are pulling out all the stops: and consumers are happily supporting the changes. Technology has been implemented as well; some showerheads integrate with Alexa and Google for voice-activated assistance.

Bidets
Bidets are fairly standard in French homes, and many Americans are catching on to the trend. These low-mounted versions of a sink were invented in 17^th century France. Though the idea isn’t unique, the technology that accompanies newer versions are. Some come equipped with heated seats, oscillating and pulsating rinse wands, deodorizer, and dryer.

Multi-Faceted Faucets
From two-tone to two-texture finishes, faucets come in a variety of colors, styles, and finishes. Some faucets boast a smooth overall finish with a wavy, water-like finish on specific areas such as handles. Matte black and antique gold are two fresh finishes to accompany the metallurgic designs.

Thinking of remodeling your bathroom or looking for a fresh, new upgrade? Contact the experts at JFC Remodeling today. We can help suggest and install new features to get your bathroom glimmering.

JFC Remodeling is committed to providing top-quality home reconstruction services to clients throughout Livingston County. With over 30 years of experience in the industry, our licensed contractors create unique, individualized, and polished renovations. Whether the site requires an improvement, repair, or is a new construction, you can trust our experts to deliver remarkable results. Call: 810-923-1123, e-mail: jfcllc@comcast.net, or visit us at: www.jfcremodeling.com today.

 

Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.