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Perfect Pantries

                The function is key for today’s homeowners when designing the perfect pantry. When remodeling or building, the focus is often on the most highly trafficked room in the house: the kitchen.   Due to the open floor plans that remain so popular, it is more important than ever to keep the kitchen neat and tidy. And thus, pantries are quickly becoming a necessity for homeowners for not only storing food and supplies but for organizing appliances and preparing some food for family and guests.     Not simply a utilitarian space where …

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Bathroom Trends

Today’s bathrooms are the space offering homeowners the best opportunity to combine design with functionality. Large spa-like master baths with large multi-head walk-in showers and double vanities continue to be popular, while powder rooms allow home decorators to flex their design muscles. According to Allison O’Keefe of Cambria, “bathrooms have been spa-inspired—sprawling and luxurious—for several years, and that trend is not changing.” Color is also key, and tile in specialty designs creates a designer look with unique and functional finishes. One trend for many large master baths isinclusion of a large shower in preference to a bathtub, according to Bohnne …

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natural stone/quartz design trends

While granite and marble remain popular among homeowners, it’s hard to deny that quartz materials have been making inroads in the countertop market. “Quartz is being chosen over natural stone because the look of stone can achieved, but with greater durability,” says Shaun Doughtery of SDI. “A great example is the look of marble in the kitchen. Marble was a popular choice for the kitchen but people have been hesitant to choose it due to staining, chipping, and the softness of stone. It wasn’t holding up. Quartz companies are replicating the look of marble for less money. Their countertops are …

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kitchen pantries

Today’s homeowners view walk-in pantries as a big plus and thus a new trend is emerging—the pantry is becoming more luxurious and more integral to kitchen design. Designers are reporting that clients are requesting a separate but visible open pantry space adjoining the kitchen. Sometimes these pantry spaces include high-end appliances such as beverage centers, icemakers, and refrigerators. Floor to ceiling cabinetry matches that of the kitchen, and countertops are installed to house counter-type appliances. Another trend is the rebirth of the butler’s pantry to house smaller appliances, store glassware, and China, or to organize other kitchen essentials.     …

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Countertop Trends

“While granite is still a leading choice for homeowners and homebuyers and white granite slabs are definitely “hot,” quartz countertops continue to grow in popularity, according to the experts Regarding popular countertop trends, Meghan Downs of Smokey Mountain Tops reports, “We are seeing the majority of our clients looking for that marble design without the high maintenance of caring for the soft marble stone. It certainly is beautiful but many day-to-day kitchen activities can harm the stone, causing etching, staining, and even visible scratches.” Downs says, “Cambria quartz offers some great low maintenance alternatives in their marble collection. The durability …

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