What is the cost to add a new electrical circuit for a built-in microwave.

By on March 22nd, 2008

Hi,

I’d like to remodel my kitchen and add a built-in microwave. I’m not sure I’m using the correct terminology, but basically I want it over the range. I read that built-in microwaves need their own circuit. Since my house is older, I’m assuming I will have to add a circuit. Does anyone know how much this will cost for an elctrician to do this. My house is a split level, if that helps. Thanks for any info.

when remodeling a WHOLE kitchen((120sq. feet)) working on it 10 hours a week about how long till its done.

By on March 17th, 2008

that includes everything form new appliences and tables to floors,and counter tops, new sink,painting,new sink, everythinggg
how long do u think till its done.
a month or so.

Is there any inexpensive way to change the look of a room whose walls are tiled.

By on March 13th, 2008

We’re buying a new house, and I love it. The only problem is the kitchen. It’s small and very dated. The walls are tiled, so I don’t know how I can change the look of the kitchen without an expensive remodel. Is there any way to paint over or disguise a tiled wall.

Tags: Kitchen Appliance Trends, kitchen islands, Kitchen Design Articles, long island kitchens, kitchen appliances, cabinetry

Garage spring cleanup Imagine a beautiful spring day.

By admin on March 10th, 2008

Garage spring cleanup

Imagine a beautiful spring day. You want to go biking, go
fishing or even enjoy a picnic with your family. When you
enter your garage to gather your gear and head to having
fun you have a tremendous surprise: your stuff is all over
the place, on the floor, messed up in corners, misplaced in
various drawers. Organizing your garage is as easy as
figuring out where to start. The first thing is to purchase some
cabinets, some shelves and hammer a series of nails into
the walls.

The storing and sorting goes as follows. Categorize each
object and place it in a place specially designed for it. For
example sporting gear should be placed in a cabinet or on
some shelves, tools should be placed in drawers or hung on
to some peg boards. Be ruthless about throwing away and
don t think twice before you throw away anything
that you haven t used recently or anything that s broken.
If you haven t repaired it yet, chances are you won t repair it.
Seasonal gear should also be sorted, boots and out-of-
season coats should be organized in small closets.

After you finish organizing, sorting and throwing away
unwanted items you will be surprised to see your garage
floor and corners again. Maybe your car will fit in the
garage again.

-223

Tags: long island kitchens, remake kitchen, kitchen ideas, decorating, kitchen sinks, kitchen furniture

How to decorate a very long, thin backyard patio.

By on March 8th, 2008

Our patio is newly tiled & the length of our house, but only 9 feet wide. This is not a deck, it’s right off the house & sits on the ground.

We have a chair/table set for 6 which I planned on setting up in front of the 2nd window (there’s french doors, bedrm window#1, bedrm window #2, kitchen door). But what to do w/ all that other space.

I’ve considered chaises, conversation sets (chairs & coffee table), swing.I just don’t know where to start.

Any ideas.

Keep in mind we’re in the middle of a remodel/construction. 2 pics:

http://tinyurl.com/yoduro

http://tinyurl.com/2cnv7c

Omega Kitchen Cabinets Purchase I just purchased some

By admin on January 5th, 2008

Omega Kitchen Cabinets Purchase

I just purchased some omega kitchen cabinets from the Expo Design Center in Dallas. I’m really excited about the omega kitchen cabinets that I bought. I’ve done business with the Expo Design Center before and have always been really pleased.

Six months before I purchased my omega kitchen cabinets, I went to the Expo Design Center to purchase a built in barbecue grill. I’ve had several parties on my patio since the professional installation was complete.

I spent some time researching the care and cleaning needed for my omega kitchen cabinets. The omega kitchen cabinets are all hand-crafted from really nice hardwoods. The nature of real wood and the finish process that is used during construction of the omega kitchen cabinets demands that care is taken to ensure that they last a lifetime.

The omega kitchen cabinets have a furniture grade finish. They are durable and moisture resistant, but they are not moisture proof. I was told that that any moisture, spill or standing liquid on my omega kitchen cabinets should be wiped up with a soft cotton cloth.

I used to clean my last kitchen cabinets with paper towels. I was told that paper towels are good at absorbing spills, but are too abrasive to clean my new omega kitchen cabinets with. I have already purchased a supply of soft cotton cloths for cleaning.

I was surprised when the salesman for the omega kitchen cabinets told me that I could use Spic and Span to clean my omega kitchen cabinets. I thought that Spic and Span was an abrasive. When Ivory was suggested, that was more in line with my preconceived ideas about a gentle cleanser.

I was told not to ever use harsh chemicals or ammonia based products on my omega kitchen cabinets. They can apparently cause the finish to discolor. I can’t imagine anyone thinking that it would be a good idea to use something like ammonia on omega kitchen cabinets.

I have purchased a humidity gauge for my home. I want to monitor the amount of moisture in my home so that I can control it. I want to control the expansion and contraction of my omega kitchen cabinets. Wood contracts and expands as it regulates its moisture content to the humidity level.

My goal is to maintain the humidity level at or above thirty five percent. The temperature in my home is never below twenty degrees. I am going to work very hard to keep my omega kitchen cabinets nice and new.

I have tried to get my mother to replace her kitchen cabinets with omega kitchen cabinets. She is long overdue for a kitchen overhaul. I think that the different styles of omega kitchen cabinets would suit my mother really well.

I visited the showroom with my mother when my omega kitchen cabinets were close to completion. She liked the choices of finishes available. I just need her to see that the value added to her home would be worth it. She has postponed buying new cabinets for too long.

Tags: remodeling ideas, interior design, Kitchen Remodeling Advice, kitchen planning, kitchen sinks

European Kitchen Cabinets: Functional Elegance and Versatility Nothing

By admin on December 17th, 2007

European Kitchen Cabinets: Functional Elegance and Versatility

Nothing is as elegant as a beautiful set of kitchen cabinets. Since the kitchen is such a centerpiece of our home, what is showcased in our kitchen has effects on the whole house. Often, the choice is not whether you want to redo your kitchen cabinets or get new, but the real dilemma is whether to get European kitchen cabinets or English kitchen cabinets.

European cabinets offer a modern day elegance and perfection that is undeniably the best the world has to offer. These sleek corners and smooth edges make for one of the best designs in the world. When you see those sleek, modern cabinets that fit seamlessly and smoothly into a kitchen, you are experiencing the wonder and technological advancement of European kitchen cabinets.

European kitchen cabinets come in all colors and shades, but they are usually always shiny and meticulously smooth. Usually, a solid color is more acceptable than a floral design or other design. I have seen some that have a nice border, but that just highlighted the rest of the kitchen cabinet. The true style of these beautiful and exotic cabinets is that they are shiny and solid in color. The vibrancy jumps out at you.

These European kitchen cabinets are available at many local merchants if you live in a city of any true size. You can get these at retail chains, but the most beneficial place to go to get these cabinets is the local home improvement store. However, there are times that this is not a beneficial method of purchase: you may have to find an alternative form. The Internet is a great way of shopping for just about anything and European kitchen cabinets are no different. However, before you ever purchase on the Internet it is important to understand what you are truly buying and how much all the fees are.

I have found that these can be created at home by that crafty carpenter in the home. However, this is not a style that is for novices. If you are an experienced carpenter, these will offer many days of joy. You can find patterns on the Internet and create these yourself. Of course, to get the truly European look, you may have to learn some new painting or varnishing techniques. If you are talented enough to create these beauties, this is a great project for the home that will last a lifetime.

When you want a new kitchen cabinet, you want the best cabinet that suits your lifestyle and your budget. Nothing does it quite like European kitchen cabinets. You will not be trusted with this modern, sleek style of cabinet if you purchase them with pleasure. Never be fooled into believing another cabinet is better or that European kitchen cabinets do not stand up to the older types. Nothing is as modern and sleek as these beautiful cabinets: nothing.

Tags: Kitchen Design Articles, cabinetry, kitchen faucets, countertops, long island kitchens

Building Your Own Kitchen Cabinets When you want

By admin on December 8th, 2007

Building Your Own Kitchen Cabinets

When you want a kitchen cabinet you want something that is going to express your personality without costing a lot of money. No one heads out to spend a fortune on something as simple as a kitchen cabinet. However, there are times that it is not feasible to purchase what you need. Then you may find it better to find a way to build your own. Building your own kitchen cabinets is an exercise in patience, skill, and love. I am not saying you have to love those cabinets, but it is a good idea to at least admire the work once you are done.

Where do you start? Well, first you need to decide if you are capable of creating your own. If you are not capable of creating your own, it may be a good idea to have a carpenter in your local area create them for you. A good carpenter can take your dreams and your imagination, put it on paper, and then make those a reality. Of course, a carpenter charges a fee for his time and effort. This fee will vary per carpenter and never assume the more you pay the better the carpenter. This is a fallacy that could cost you more than you expect.

A carpenter can be found in your local telephone directory. If you cannot figure out how to look them up in your local telephone directory, do what I do: look via the Internet. There are many ways that you can find a good one. Most directories via the Internet even give additional details. I found that the best way to find a good carpenter is actually word of mouth. Carpenters understand the importance of word of mouth as well. If you find a carpenter by word of mouth, let that carpenter know who recommended him or her.

Of course, there are a few things you should keep in mind with a carpenter. You should always sit down with a carpenter and get a free estimate. Ask the carpenter about the experience he or she has. Find out if they have references. Do they have a portfolio? Find out the policy of the carpenter should they go over budget. What do they envision for your kitchen? Often, a carpenter can come up with excellent ideas if you are stumped. In addition, a carpenter should always be forthcoming with any details you ask. It is a great idea to find out how long it will take the job to be completed as well. Always remember that you are the boss.

If you are still convinced you are building your own kitchen cabinets, then you should get a measuring tape and a pad with pencil. I suggest you measure everything in your kitchen. It is a good idea to measure the back wall and do not forget to measure where the sink is and where any important appliances will be going. I like to go to some of those home improvement web sites and use their free design software to complete my own wonderful kitchen cabinet layout. This is a great way to see exactly what you will be getting. Often, these will allow you to make a list of things you need to purchase as well.

Now you must decide on a material. Wood or wood particle is usually a great choice and is honestly the most common. Metal is hard to work with in the home. I like a mixture of wood and particleboard. I thought I would go all out and get solid wood, but I found two problems: solid wood is expensive and solid wood is heavy. I found that a combination of the two is perfect for my needs. Of course, I had to get the hardware needed as well. I did this with my wood purchase. I like decorative handles; I like decorative borders.

Next, I made sure I had all the tools I needed. Okay, let me be honest here, all the tools my husband needed. Of course, he needed a few extra tools and the funny thing is I swear he did not use them when he created the cabinets. I think that was his payment for a job well done and I left it with that. Building your own kitchen cabinets is a time consuming chore and he deserved a new tool for his efforts. Anyway, if you do not have all the necessary tools, you may find it an expensive investment. However, if you only need a couple of extra tools than you are set to go.

Next, I suggest you set up a few weekends or a few days where this is all you do. You will need time to cutout, construct, and install your new cabinets. This is a great family task if you and your family can work together. I often find that my household is filled with way too many chiefs and that working together can be filed as a task in itself. However, working together to accomplish something special is often rewarding in and of itself.

Building your own kitchen cabinets is a task that is filled with joy, pleasure, and frustration. However, should you be lucky enough to get this task completed, the rewards are indescribable. You will have kitchen cabinets that will last a lifetime and memories that will be remembered every time you look at those kitchen cabinets.

Tags: kitchen remodel, Kitchen Remodeling Advice, kitchen faucets, decorating, countertops

Acrylic Kitchen Sink And Its Uses Some would

By admin on December 1st, 2007

Acrylic Kitchen Sink And Its Uses
Some would have you believe that a kitchen sink should only be manufactured from steel or porcelain to minimize stains and problematic deterioration, but that is a shortsighted lack of vision and originality, as many things have been done to the benefit mankind with various types of plastics.
An acrylic kitchen sink can provide you with just as much durability and constructive use as with any other material that any other sink may be made from the type of lasting material that can endure.
An acrylic sink can offer many things, whether traveling with you in your recreational vehicle as an accessory for RV kitchen or restroom, and even to being a sturdy and cost effective item installed into your home restroom or kitchen areas. The usefulness of an acrylic sink cannot be overlooked when trying to decide upon the more efficient model of sink for whatever need should arise for its’ uses, as the shopper you must be weary of the best deal possible, and a knowledge of installing.
With many of the items in this realm of home furnishings being an interesting cross-section of durability and affordability, it is no wonder to see how the acrylic sink has permeated the markets of even recreational traveling and portable lavatories, but the best place to find the many varieties and multitudinous may be at most of the outlet warehouse stores that make home improvement their primary function of concern. Most do-it-yourself people see that as the most helpful aspect at hand.
With the particular categories and collections of sinks for bathroom or kitchen settings, there is much need for looking into the best quality at the most cost-effective price that you have the ability to find, and a respect for those who might be able to help you and would have the most professional of opinions to give as aid. There is much to be said for the truly qualified salesperson that can lead you to the best combination of traits to make your purchase beyond that you would have expected.
An acrylic sink in the home or in the bath can be a excellent inclusion into whatever the theme or mood you foresee as being the ideal for you, making a cost effective purchase the more plausible, but also provoking an almost completely water efficient function ability for the rest of the time that you own your faucet’s structure.
It is then that you may find it necessary to see how more possible it is for you to have confidence in a sleek design, and comfort in knowing that your furnishing functions.

Gather Ethnographic Research The first phase of this

By admin on November 11th, 2007

Gather Ethnographic Research

The first phase of this project consisted of gathering ethnographic research from 3 families
in the greater Chicago area. The families were middle and upper-middle class with 3 or more
members in their family. Each family were in different phases in the kitchen redesign from
planning, executing, finishing, to finished. Each family was given 3 disposable cameras to
take at home and outside whenever they were making a kitchen redesign decision. They were
also given instruction sheets to help guide them in their picture taking. (See Appendix Fig. 1)
After they had finished taking the pictures, a team was sent to the family s home to interview
them using the photographs as prompts. Three experts, an architect, a designer, and new
construction manager were also interviewed to gather an expert perspective. All data was
entered into the field books. (See Appendix Fig. 3) All interviews were also videotaped for
later perusal.
Analyze Through User Insights Tool
After careful gathering of the data from the interviews and video tapes, the data was entered
into the User Insight Tool (UITool). (See Appendix Fig. 2) The UITool was structured in excel
around frameworks that corresponded to the field books. Using the UITool each entry in
the field book has a comprehensive set of data. This is useful when later looking at the tool at
different levels of granularity. Patterns unnoticeable at an entry level are seen when looking at
several entries together.
Synthesize Through Insight Matrix
Several passes through the UITool output a comprehensive list of insights for a total of 68
user insights and 87 expert insights which were scored separately. A range of 0-2 was used to
score the data in the insight matrix. Several clusters were found for both groups which led to
design criteria and framing solutions.

Family Selection Requirements
A rich set of data was gathered from the three families since they were all in different phases
of their kitchen redesign process. After recruiting and selecting the families on this criteria,
we found one family in the pre-redesign process. Another family had already done one
redesign on a previous home and was in the middle of a second redesign. The last family was
almost complete with their redesign.