How Do I Update My Small Kitchen?

How Do I Update My Small Kitchen?

There is no sugar coating it, small kitchens can be really difficult to update or remodel. The limited space makes it challenging to come up with and design a variety of layouts. Incorporating enough space for the essential kitchen appliances, countertop small appliances, and meal prep is always a task. However, this doesn’t mean that you should give up on the idea of updating your small kitchen. There are plenty of tactics you can take that will have the finished project feeling more like your dream kitchen versus the cramped small kitchen you previously had.

To help out with your remodel, we asked our designers to provide their top tip on how to remodel a small kitchen? Here are the tips to remodelling a small kitchen they came up with:

Open Concept Design

Overhead cabinets, clustering appliances, and tight spaces can make small kitchens unattractive and even uncomfortable. By using the free space on your walls or under your cabinets you can open up space in your kitchen. Consider incorporating some magnetic spice or kitchen knife holders, hanging pot racks and in the cupboard, organizers to free up space in your kitchen. Floating shelves can also provide additional ‘open’ storage.

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Proper Lighting

Using the same principle from smaller spaced bathroom renovations, a small kitchen update requires good lighting. Therefore, you should think about adding both atmospheric and task lighting fixtures. Incandescent lighting can be installed below your cabinets to provide more lighting to the countertops. Hanging pendant lights can also be used to beautify your kitchen while still providing enough illumination for the entire space.

Update the flooring

Your kitchen floor has the power to change the entire ambiance of the room, the floor is also one of the first areas that most individuals notice when entering a kitchen of any size. So, updating your flooring is a must with any kitchen renovation as it helps highlight the renovation. Choosing vinyl as a cost-effective flooring option for your small kitchen is a great way to save on your budget, but still get a luxurious look as vinyl can be made to look like any natural flooring material. Choosing a lighter colour floor will also help make your space look larger and brighter.   

Keep Only the Important Appliances

That industrial-strength mixer may look great on your counter, but if you are only using it a few times a year, find a hidden storage space for it. Counter space is at a premium when you have limited space, keep only the important items out. This includes fruit bowls, coffee machines (you only really need one), and other decorative pieces. Investing in multipurpose appliances may also be a great option, you can get a toaster over that doubles as a small convection oven and an air fryer will help save space. 

Choose a minimalistic design

Another excellent update for your small kitchen is minimalizing it. What is the benefit of a minimalistic design on how to remodel a small kitchen? Foremost, it makes the kitchen look refined without being too flashy. Also, it is modern and easy to maintain or upgrade. So, consider using a minimalistic design for your small kitchen. Notably, minimalistic designs also work for living room and bathroom renovations.

Choose the Same Colour Walls and Cabinets 

By choosing a light colour for your walls and cabinets, you create a space with no boundaries or defined lines helping space look larger. You can go for any colour or hue you like, but lighter colours will make space feel more open, where darker shades will have the opposite effect, leaving the room feeling tighter.

At KBC Solutions we are experienced with kitchen remodels of all types and sizes. Our designers will work with you to help plan out and design the kitchen of your dreams and our professional installers will bring it to life. Call us today at 647-258-4170 to book your consultation.


What are the Benefits of a Custom Closet?

What are the Benefits of a Custom Closet?

No matter if you live in a one-bedroom condo or a sprawling dream home, storage space always seems to be an issue. Having well-organized storage spaces is key to maximizing space and having all of your items readily available. When it comes to closets, either in the bedroom or other areas of your home, the gold standard has to be a custom-designed and built closet.

Not sure if you need a custom closet, we will change your mind. Below are several reasons why you should invest in a custom closet.

Keep your space organized

A custom closet is designed to meet your needs and will ensure that your space remains organized. Drawers, shelves, and poles for hanging can all be utilized as needed so that it is easy for you to have a place for all of your items. This a designated area for your essentials and for your not so used items, it will be easier to keep your living spaces clutter-free.

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Save time

Custom closets have a designated space for every type of item. When it comes to your wardrobe, you will never need to look for a key item again, as you can easily find your belts, shirts, trousers, purses, and anything else you need to finish of your ensemble. This does not only make the process of dressing yourself daily easier, but it also saves lots of time as you won’t need to waste time looking for misplaced or hidden items in your closet.

Designed to meant your needs

As the name rightly indicates, a custom closet is designed based on your needs. Hence, your peculiarities would have been considered before the final design is approved and built. As a result of this, you will be able to better utilize all of the space in a custom closet versus an off the shelf closet system.

Aesthetically pleasing

Everyone wants their bedroom to look clean, tidy, and organized. This is because an organized room is not only more appealing but also more relaxing. Custom closets are known to increase the aesthetic appeal of any room, but also has an appeal of their own. You will enjoy this benefit daily and if you decide to ever sell your home, you will enjoy the benefit even more as custom closets help boost the appeal of your home.

It boosts the value of your home

If you are considering selling your home at a later time, a custom closet can go a long way in boosting your home’s value. Potential home buyers will consider a home with custom closets to be a major benefit and it shows pride of ownership. In turn, this will help increase the asking price of your home.

It saves money

Have you ever bought a shirt that is almost identical to the one you already own without even realizing that you own a similar item? Well, this usually happens because your closet is not well organized and you probably haven’t seen the original item in some time. With a custom closet, the likelihood of this happening at least accidentally will be significantly reduced, as your wardrobe will always be organized. Ultimately, this will help you save money, as you will avoid duplicate purchases.

 

Are Custom Closets Worth It?   

The splash on magazine covers and TV commercials can have you wondering if custom-built closets are really worth it. And they are! Not only are they a great addition to your space, but you also get the grand feeling when you walk in to pick out your outfit for the day. You have within your grasp a structure that allows you to reach your items easily and feel absolutely fly while doing it.

A custom-modeled closet is one of the many things you can personalize in your home. With the right design and furniture-making professionals, your closet will be a stylish masterpiece that provides all you need to be a stylish masterpiece for your daily activities. It saves you time, energy, and leaves you looking put-together and fabulous! Considering it? Here are some of the reasons why custom closets are worth it.

1. Well-organized structure 

With custom closets, your space does not have to be disorganized as you are provided with several compartments. You can neatly arrange your clothes, footwear, and accessories. You don’t need to go scrambling around your closet looking for your stuff when everything is constantly sorted.

2. Easy navigation 

Custom closets make it so much easier to navigate around your room. Fitted to your specifications and style, your custom closet won’t just be in the way. You can go about your daily routine without your sneakers, bags, or jewelry lying around and causing havoc. With your stuff nicely arranged, you can have a more constructive day.

3. Sufficient space

With custom closets, you can be assured of enough room to cater to all your clothing and jewelry. Custom closets usually have a plurality of sections broad enough to carry as many items as you specify during the design stage. Plus you also get to save space in your home with everything slotted into a specific part of the room.

4. Increases home value

With the installation of a custom-designed closet, the value of a home is significantly boosted in the real estate market. It gives an alluring feel of elegance, order, and space, which are major pointers in boosting home value.

5. Designed to your preference

Above all else, a custom closet is designed for YOU. That means the drawers lock exactly how you want them to, the hanging rods are the exact type you want, and the mirror isn’t too short or too tall for you. Everything is exactly how you want it to be and most importantly, it is exactly how you like it! A custom closet can come with spaces that are small enough or wide enough to house anything you need to have within reach. The style possibilities with a custom closet are endless.

 

Why You Need A Custom Closet   

There are a lot of things that you have to do to achieve a productive day, and it often starts with your outfit. And one thing that can be very helpful in contributing to that is a custom closet! Honestly, a custom closet is one of the best investments you can make for your bedroom. Not sold on the idea? Here are a few reasons why you absolutely need a custom closet!

1. Optimized space 

One good thing to notice about any stunning home is the fact that it is never cramped, clustered, or choked. With custom closets, you get to make the most of your available space. There is no need to struggle to find clothes for work while tripping over yesterday’s outfit when you can get a custom closet. With personalized style and everything within reach, leaving your home will have you feeling ready to take on the world.

2. Cost-effective

Custom closets are relatively affordable and cost-effective. When you consider the quality and longevity of custom closets, it is very beneficial. Knowing that you invested in getting the closet also helps you maintain tidiness because you will always want things to be sorted out so that the true beauty of the closet can be displayed.

3. Boosts Productivity

Custom closets are a great way to boost your productivity and efficiency. Waking up to see your things in an organized manner makes it really easy to activate that boost you need to start the day. No need to stress over where everything is when it is all neatly arranged based on the design of your custom closet.

4. Expresses style and beauty 

You can splash out elegance all over your personal space. Custom closets are designed by experts but they are true reflections of the owner’s style and that’s you! Walking into your space will always give you a refreshing feeling knowing that everything is an intentional expression of your style and you can see the beauty right there.

5. Stress reliever

The same daily routine of looking for your clothes or a particular shoe in the morning can intensify stress. Not to mention that being late for work because the shirt you had planned to wear was buried under a heap of laundry is not a good look for you. Your mornings should not begin with stress. A custom closet provides you with an organized structure so you don’t have to rinse and repeat every morning. Relieve yourself of all that stress and invest in a custom closet today!

 

How do I Organize My Custom Closet?   

Deciding to get a custom-designed closet shows that you have great taste. But a custom closet can only provide its benefits when the content is organized. It is one thing to own a custom closet and another to know how to arrange your stuff properly to fit in. A clutter of shoes, bags lying in mismatched places, and jewelry stuck to the floorboards doesn’t fit the whole purpose of a custom closet. So if you are ready to organize your custom closet, here are a few tips to help you out!

1. Store your jewelry correctly

The great thing about custom closets is you get to organize your closet as preferred. Whether you decide to store accessories in a jewelry box, devote a compartment in your closet, or hook on a hanging dummy, make sure that they are well placed and not jumbled up as this can cause entanglements that might damage your favorite pieces.

2. Categorize your clothing

A great way to arrange your closet properly is to organize your clothes according to your preference. You can sort them by colour, night vs day wear, office outfits, and so many other categories. You are the artist here, design your masterpiece! Group your clothes based on your preference and hang or fold in your custom closet, this way you know where each type of clothing is and can easily pick it up as opposed to turning the room over in search of your favorite top.

3. Sort the extra pieces and accessories

Little or extra pieces like belts, and scarves should be organized correctly because they can sometimes make or break your outfit. Designate a section suitable to these items and arrange according to use, type, colour, or as preferred.

4. Use baskets and closet dividers as needed 

Having a custom closet doesn’t mean all your stuff has to fit into drawers. You still need somewhere to keep your laundry. You can use closet dividers to sort your clothes and the baskets help you build the habit of sorting coloured and white used clothing for laundry.

5. Keep frequently used items within arms reach

For your workout outfits or pairs of shoes you wear regularly, it is advisable to have them at your fingertips when you need them. You can fix all your not-so-frequently used items (like heavy winter coats or hiking outfits) at the upper section of your closet so that everything else you need for the day-to-day can be picked without a stretch.


5 Kitchen Renovation Ideas

5 Kitchen Renovation Ideas

At some point or another, we have all heard that the kitchen is the heart of the home. This is because friends and family tend to congregate in or around the kitchen and many memories are made and experiences had in the kitchen. When your kitchen begins to feel dull and outdated, it can affect the ambiance of the environment as well. This is why having an upgraded kitchen is one of the most sought-after attributes that new home buyers are looking for in a home, and one of the top listed renovation projects on homeowners wish lists. 

If you are planning a kitchen renovation, be it as a Do It Yourself project or with help from contractors, learning from the experiences of others can help make the process more successful. We have reached out to our designers and asked them to share their top ideas/tips for renovating a kitchen. Outlined below are 5 of these tips:

Don’t Underestimate a Fresh Coat of Paint

Sometimes, all your kitchen needs is a refresh, and the fastest way to achieve a fresh new look and vibe is by repainting your kitchen walls. Your kitchen’s identity can be completely updated and or redefined by simply painting. Choosing to go with light neutral colours is a safe bet for your kitchen, and is one that more people will be comfortable with. However, if you want a more vibrant colourful option go for it. The goal is to create a visually appealing space that you will enjoy spending time in. Just know that if you go with vibrant or bright colour, you will probably need to repaint if you plan on selling your home, to appeal to more buyers.

Update the Lighting

No matter if you have a small kitchen or a large chef’s kitchen, having varying lightning solutions is important to include as part of your kitchen renovations. The right lighting can not only make your space feel welcoming but can be used to accent different areas of the kitchen. Our experts recommend using warm lights and ensuring that all key areas around your kitchen are well lit.

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Incorporate Sufficient Storage

Having plenty of space in your kitchen can help you move smaller appliances off your countertop and keep clutter out of the field of view. This will keep your kitchen open with a clean feel. Using different storage options is important for any kitchen, you can maximize space with floor to ceiling cabinets and utilize wall space to include shelves.

Appliances

Every kitchen renovation should include new appliances, especially since they face a lot of use and wear and tear over the years. New appliances can add a modern touch to your kitchen, or they can be incorporated into the cabinetry with matching facades. Whatever your style, new appliances will make your kitchen renovation more enjoyable and more than likely more energy-efficient.

Plan the Flow Carefully

With any kitchen renovation, a lot of time will be spent on choosing colours, materials, and finishes. Don’t forget to think about the flow of your kitchen. The sink, stove, and refrigerator are the highest used areas in a kitchen and can cause a ton of frustration if they are not easily accessible or if there isn’t enough space to move around these areas freely during meal preparation. Also, consider storage relative to the stove and prep areas.

Achieving the kitchen of your dreams is just a renovation away. But. To ensure that renovation stands up to your expectations, you need to prepare and plan for every aspect of your dream kitchen. A gorgeous kitchen that flows well and offers room for friends and family to gather around to share stories and share a great meal is essential in making any house a home.


5 Benefits of Custom Closets

5 Benefits of Custom Closets

No matter the size of your home, having sufficient and easily accessible storage options always seems to be a concern. One of the most popular tips when it comes to increasing your storage space is to organize and compartmentalize all your storage areas. Having custom closets installed in your home is an easy way to organize your wardrobe and other belongings while creating additional storage space. 

Not sure if a custom closet system will be beneficial? We asked our designers to share their top 5 benefits of custom closets, and outlined their responses below: 

1. Versatility

A huge benefit of having custom closets in your home is the ability to utilize your closet space more efficiently. Your standard closet is simply an open space with perhaps a shelf and a rod, leaving plenty of unusable space to go to waste. A custom closet is built to meet your storage needs and to maximize space. You can add shelves, drawers, cabinets, extra rods, and even hooks, your only limitation on design is the size of the closet itself.

2. Personalization

As mentioned above, custom closets offer the possibility of achieving personalized storage spaces. You can benefit from more space instead of being stuck with a closet full of unused space. Designing a custom closet is all about creating the most amount of storage for the specific items in your home. You’ll be amazed by how much a custom closet system can improve your home.

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3. Design

A grand, walk-in master closet is a dream for many. With a custom closet, you can achieve your desired master closet design. You will have the ability to choose the colors and materials of your closet, creating a storage space that is both functional and beautiful. 

4. Quality

Your local hardware store probably has pre-boxed, mass-produced closet systems you can purchase and put together yourself. What you will be missing from this option is the customization and the quality materials and workmanship that come with a custom-built closet. Every custom closet system is built to meet your size and functionality needs and is installed by a team of experienced contractors.

5. Value

Having custom closets installed in your home can boost the value of your home. Our designers say that having functional and tailor-made storage solutions can create the feeling of an upscale environment. If you are planning on selling your home down the road, potential buyers will be wowed by the integration of your closet systems in your home. 

Custom closets are stylish, versatile, and highly functional. The feeling you get when you walk into your fully organized custom designed closet, and you can easily find the perfect ensemble for the evening, is indescribable. So, go ahead and have the custom closet of your dreams built just for you, you deserve it!


What Is The Difference Between Granite And Marble Countertops?

What Is The Difference Between Granite And Marble Countertops?

When it comes to kitchen renovations replacing your countertops is almost always at the top of the priority list. There are many different materials that can be utilized for your kitchen countertops, butcherblock has become popular in the past couple years. But, two of the most popular options have always been marble and granite, and a question which we get asked very often is “which material should you go for“?

Both granite and marble are natural stone and have their own distinct beautiful designs. When it comes to selecting the right slab for your countertops, it can easily become a really tough decision. However, before you can decide which one is best for your kitchen, you should understand the difference between the two types of stone.

1. Origin of Granite and Marble

Granite is igneous rock that is formed deep within the earth due to solidification and cooling of Magma. It takes millions of years for this rock to be formed and it becomes hard due to heating and then slow cooling over a large period of time.

Marble on the other hand, is a metamorphic stone that is formed by transformation of sedimentary stone. The sedimentary rock was buried under soil for a long period of time. There it remained under intense heat and pressure and thus was transformed into marble. Due to in addition of different impurities you can find marble slabs with different tints and shades of colours.

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2. Appearance

Both marble and granite can have a similar appearance, in most cases granite will have darker shades and more variances in patterns, and more differentiating identifiers due to impurities. There is a natural color variation that is different in two stones, marble tends to have colourful veins that flow through it, while Granite has colors that are spaced out throughout the stone.

3. Strength and Durability

The strength and durability of each of these stones depends greatly upon the process they were formed. Both granite and marble will withstand the use and wear thrown at them as a kitchen countertop, but they still differ from each other. Granite is technically the harder of the two stones, and better resists any scratches that may occur from cutting and working on the countertop. Marble on the other hand may not be able to resist some hard strokes and wear that granite can withstand.

4. Stain Resistance

As natural stone both marble and granite are porous materials, and will require periodic sealing to prevent any staining of your countertops. Marble has metamorphic features and thus it is a more porous material compared to granite.

Ultimately, the choice between granite and marble is up to your design and style preferences. Both materials are gorgeous and can be cut to fit pretty much any kitchen counter style. They are both hard natural stone that can withstand the wear and tear of everyday use. They both also require minimum maintenance such as periodic sealing to ensure you get the most out of your countertop. So, when it comes to choosing between marble or granite, go with the material that best meets your style, budget, and timeline.


5 Bathroom Renovation Ideas

5 Bathroom Renovation Ideas

An updated bathroom has the ability to change how you feel about and how others perceive your home. Your bathroom may be one of the smaller rooms in your home, but it is also one of the most important rooms as well. This is where you spend some of your most private moments, and a place for peace and even relaxation. However, when it comes to bathroom renovations, there are many options and styles you need to decide on. Everything from the style of toilet to the hardware that will help pull the room together. These decisions can leave you feeling a little overwhelmed and perhaps even confused.

To help you navigate this process, we have put together a list of 5 bathroom renovation ideas that will help turn your bathroom into the bathroom of your dreams.

1. Create the Feeling of a Larger Space

No matter the size of your bathroom, you can always make it feel more spacious with a well-placed mirror. Installing a large mirror will not only give the illusion of larger space, it will also help brighten up your bathroom by reflecting more light. A larger mirror will also provide more space when getting ready in the morning or to go out, especially if you share the bathroom with someone else.

2. Not Just Any Bathtub Will Do

Your bathtub is not just where you can lay back and relax. It also has the potential of being the focal point of your bathroom. With multiple designs, styles, and functions available to select from, you need to choose wisely. Consider how you will utilize the tub (do you enjoy a long relaxing soak, or perhaps you enjoy the message jets have to offer, or you may not be a bath person at all) and select a tub that will meet your needs but that will also compliment the interior décor of your bathroom.

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3. Pick Your Porcelain Wisely

The importance a toilet plays in your bathroom renovation should not be underestimated. Just like your bathtub, there are plenty of options when it comes to choosing a toilet. Style, design and function are the main differentiators. From low flow toilets designed to conserve water consumption to toilets with built in bidets for that extra clean feeling, your choice needs to be made on what features are important to you. A few other options that you should give some consideration to are if you like the look of a one-piece or two-piece toilet, and if you are more comfortable sitting on a round or elongated bowl shape?

4. Hardware

The hardware you choose for your bathroom renovation will add the final touches to the room. Choose cupboard handles, knobs, towel racks, toilet paper holders, and faucets that help accentuate the room. No matter if you choose a classic look or a more modern design, choosing hardware that doesn’t mesh well together will leave your bathroom feeling chaotic and take away from the tranquil ambiance you are looking for.

5. Increase Storage Space

You can always use extra storage space for all the items we all store in our bathrooms. Installing a floor to ceiling cabinet as well as cabinet organizers in your bathroom will help you store towels, toiletries, extra toilet paper, cleaning supplies, and everything else you need access to properly.


5 Things You'll Love About a Custom Closet System

5 Things You'll Love About a Custom Closet System

Your closet is vital to your everyday routine, you unavoidably begin and more than likely end your daily activities in your closet. Having an organized closet will help you save time when selecting your wardrobe, no matter the occasion. When it comes to space, layout, and storage of any closet, a one size fits all approach unfortunately doesn’t meet the differing requirements of most. Having a custom closet that is built with your personal wardrobe needs, aesthetic taste and lifestyle in mind will help get your day started hassle free and keep your mood relaxed at night.

If you have never experienced the benefits of a custom closet, here are five things you will love about a new custom closet system:

1. A Place For Everything and Everything in its Place

A custom closet system is specially designed to organize your wardrobe and display key pieces. Which in turn will save you time and frustration of looking for specific items, as you are better able to access clothing or accessories you are looking to wear. You can have your closet designed to fit any items you please, everything from tops, bottoms, dresses, jackets, shoes, belts, jewelry, purses and so on will have their own designated area, maximizing storage space. There is nothing quite as pleasing as standing back and looking at your showcased items in your organized custom closet.

2. Made to Last

Your custom closet can be made out of and encompass a variety of materials. But, no matter what your closet’s structure is comprised of, it was designed to last. Your custom closet, in most cases is built and designed to fit the exact dimensions of your closet. The structure will be engineered to withstand the weight of your wardrobe and any bumps and bangs it takes over time. Professional installers will ensure all the pieces are put together properly, and installed properly.

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3. Made for Your Personality

Unlike boxed closet systems that are available in the market, a custom closet system is designed to express and suit your personality. Everything from the materials used, to the design and flow of your closet is customizable. You can have all of your items hidden behind cabinets and drawers, you can choose to have a few statement pieces highlighted or you can have your entire wardrobe exposed, the choice is up to you.

4. Piece of Mind

A custom built closet will come with the backing of the manufacturer and installers in the form of a warranty. You can rest assured if any of the pieces, parts or moving mechanisms are defective, you will have somewhere to turn to for support.

5. Tidy Bedroom

Another major benefit you will enjoy with your custom closet system is that there is no need to clutter your bedroom with articles of clothing, as you will have a place and space in your closet.
You will love your clutter-free bedroom!

KBC Solutions can help put an end to closet chaos by designing and building a custom walk-in closet system for you. If you are in the market for a new custom closet to fall in love with, give us a call @ 647-258-4170 to schedule a consultation.


What is the Best Countertop Material for a Kitchen?

What is the Best Countertop Material for a Kitchen?

A question we receive very often is what is the best countertop material for my kitchen renovation? This is a tough question to answer without first understanding your needs and wants for your new kitchen. With that being said, below we will highlight the key factors you should consider when choosing a countertop material for your kitchen renovation.

Let’s start by reviewing the most common countertop materials used in kitchen renovations today:

  1. Granite 2. Marble 3. Quartz 4. Soapstone 5. Tile 6. Laminate 7. Recycled Glass

Each of the above countertop materials has its own pros and cons. With so many great options available, it is easy to see why some people have a hard time choosing the right option for their new kitchen. 

Here are the factors that should be considered when choosing the best countertop material for your kitchen renovations.

1. Functionality

A major factor that must be prioritized when choosing the best countertop material for your

kitchen renovation is what purpose you need your countertop to perform. If you do a lot of cooking and or baking in your kitchen you will need a material that will provide a surface that compliments your work in the kitchen and stand up to the heat from pots and pans, allow for food preparation and so on. After all, you don’t want to be looking for accessories to protect your countertop when you are in the middle of preparing a feast.

2. Aesthetics

Countertops are a backdrop for the kitchen. As a result, the material should contribute to the

overall appeal and ambiance of your kitchen. The material you choose should help enhance the new look you are trying to achieve with your renovation.

3. Durability

The kitchen quite often becomes the gathering place for families and for guests alike. The countertop should be able to not only withstand wear from cooking and food preparation but also from the additional use as a gathering place.

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4. Heat Resistance

This one can fall into functionality, but it is so important that we needed to call it out again. Being able to place a hot pot or tray directly onto your countertop is a big benefit in the kitchen. You don’t want to be looking for a heat resistant trivet to protect your new countertop every time you are in the kitchen. 

5. Ease of Maintenance

Some countertop materials require more maintenance than others, for example, any natural stone product is porous, so a countertop made of stone will need to be sealed annually to prevent discolouration and stains on the material.  Choosing a material that meets your maintenance expectations will help alleviate any potential frustrations with the material later on. Choosing a material that is easy to clean and keep in top condition without the fear of damaging it easily, should be a priority.

Choosing the best countertop material really does depend on your kitchen renovation needs and wants. There isn’t one material fits all, however, there is one material that is wildly popular, and that is Quartz. For many, it is considered the best countertop material as it is very attractive, available in a wide selection of colours and designs, has the natural stone look but without the annual maintenance required by sealing natural stone materials. Quartz is made from quartz, resin, and polymers to create a nonporous surface that can withstand the busy kitchen activities. This easy to maintain, beautiful and durable material also costs less per square foot than marble, granite, or soapstone making quartz the number one choice for many planning a kitchen renovation.


5 Design Tips to Know Before Remodeling Your Bathroom

5 Design Tips to Know Before Remodeling Your Bathroom

Who doesn’t get excited about planning a bathroom remodel? After all, your bathroom is where many of your most private moments take place. And for some, it is the only truly alone time they have. So, having a bathroom that combines style and function is ever so important. We understand that bathroom renovation projects can turn out to be a challenge at times. This is why we asked our designers to share some of their tips and tricks to help keep your bathroom remodel planning, fun and exciting.

We look to inspire you to invest your budget wisely while still designing a stylish, relaxing space!

1. Avoid Positioning the Toilet in Front of the Door

Something that all of our designers had in their notes was to avoid placing the toilet directly in front of the door. You may think this tip is based around privacy, and even though this is true, the reason for this is many people keep their bathroom door open when the room is not in use. As a result, your visitors will more than likely be staring at your toilet at some point, as they walk around your home. No matter how nice your toilet is, you do not want it to be a focal point. Instead you can redirect their attention with a vanity with an ornate mirror positioned in front of the door. This will provide a welcoming vibe to your bathroom, when the door is left open.

2. Ensure the Space is Well Lit

Lighting can do wonders, especially if you have a small bathroom. Another popular tip from our designers is to include multiple lighting sources in your bathroom redesign. This will ensure the space is well lit. By utilizing a warmer light tone, you create a spa-like ambiance, with an extra touch of style.

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3. Pay Close Attention to Your Sink’s Height

A common mistake in bathroom remodel, is positioning the sink at an incorrect height. Most countertops are set around 32 to 34 inches from the floor. But, with the popularity of above counter mounted sink bowls, the additional height of the sink needs to be taken into consideration. Otherwise, you may find that your sink is at an uncomfortable height, and younger family members may not be able to reach the faucet.

4. Choose an Oversized Shower Over a Small Tub

If you have limited space in your bathroom, a large soaker tub is definitely not an option. But, before you consider having a smaller tub installed with a shower head above, think about if you will really enjoy the smaller tub or even use it. Instead, choose to have an oversized shower with multiple shower heads installed. This design will offer up additional space, without removing the benefit from the spa-like amenity. After all, who wouldn’t enjoy relaxing under a waterfall shower head in their new bathroom?

5. Add Some Extravagant Touches

A great renovation project is always pulled together by the smaller details. We are not saying to blow your budget on high-end finishes, but rather find those unique pieces that will give the room character. Consider upgrading the hardware on your vanity or installing luxurious walls sconces or even incorporating ornate window coverings. There are so many possibilities to add a touch of character and class to your redesigned bathroom.

Planning a bathroom remodel may have you a little tense, but the thought of the finished product should excite you. There are many design tips available to help you with your planning, but if you are finding it difficult to come up with a design that meets your needs and wants, our team at KBC Solutions will work with you to help build a plan and design that brings your dream bathroom to life. Call us today at 647-258-4170 to book your consultation.


What is the Difference Between Refacing and Refinishing Kitchen Cabinets?

What is the Difference Between Refacing and Refinishing Kitchen Cabinets?

Are you planning a kitchen renovation, and considering upgrading your kitchen cabinets? Do you want to change your cabinet style without replacing the entire cabinet? Are you contemplating between cabinet refacing and cabinet refinishing? This article aims to share details on both options to help you make an informed decision.

When it is time for a kitchen upgrade, you will have multiple decisions to make. When it comes to setting a budget, separating your needs and wants prior to meeting potential kitchen renovation contractors will help you prioritize what’s important for the new kitchen.

Cabinets are a major component of your kitchen’s functionality and aesthetics. They can also take up a large part of your renovation budget, if replacing them. There is a potential to save some money upgrading the existing cabinets. Your options here are cabinet refacing or cabinet refinishing.

Cabinet Refacing

Cabinet refacing involves replacing the external surfaces of your current cabinets. This includes all cabinet doors, drawer fronts, hardware, face frames, and end panels. Laminates or wood veneers are usually used to reface the cabinets. A key aspect of refacing your cabinets, is ensuring that all the refaced components match with each other. This is a great option, especially if you have damaged cabinet doors and drawers.

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Cabinet Refinishing

If your kitchen cabinet doors and drawers are still in great condition, but you would like to change the look of your kitchen, cabinet refinishing may be the best option for you. Cabinet refinishing involves changing the color or finish of existing cabinets by painting or staining them. All the original materials are reused, so you must ensure that your cabinets do not have any cracks, dents, chips, cuts, or gouges before choosing this option.

To sum up the above, the difference between refacing and refinishing your existing kitchen cabinets is that refacing involves putting new pieces on the existing frames and changing
the doors and drawer fronts. Refinishing on the other hand focuses only on updating the
existing finish or color of the cabinets. No parts are replaced.

Refacing your cabinets is a great way to save money on your kitchen renovation when there is minor visible damage, refinishing is the more affordable solution, as long as your cabinets are in good condition.

Choosing between refacing or refinishing your existing kitchen cabinets, is based on your specific situation. Your desired look, budget, and the condition of your existing cabinets will all play a role in your decision.