The title of this just about says it all, right? Who does not want to update and improve there lives, health, and home? We all have " Want's", especially us ladies. Our homes are our nests! I do not know a woman who is not considering changing and upgrading, or remodeling her home!
The BIG question is always, is it "worth" it. Of course, many factors must be considered to answer that age old question. In the Home Improvement, building and remodeling business there is an annual tool which helps determine the answer. Remodeling Magazine publishes their Cost Versus Value issue every January. It is a dependable measuring stick on return of investment both homeowners and remodeling professionals seek to research projects return on investing in your home. They research this nationally and break down which projects return the best bang for the buck regionally.
There is no way I can cover all the information in one blog post. This magazine is filled with such valuable research and marketing information. I would fail informing you if I try and cover all of it in only two to three blog posts. Our scope of projects for our clients spans so many important upgrades plus new construction, I am going to be mindful and elaborate on details regarding the design construction process and cost on our most sought after projects in our region.
Apple Wood is unique because we help our clients with more than Kitchen and Bath remodeling. I do not know if you know our history. Let me remind you. Our beautiful Windham Kitchen and Bath Showroom came about out of necessity. Our original parent company Apple Wood Construction needed a reliable, excellent Kitchen and Bath professional to refer our clients to as they designed and built their dream home.
Lenny was a successful General Contractor with decades of building experience. He was looking for a synergistic network of building professionals whose commitment to excellence equaled his own. After attempting to find the right fit with a number of local Kitchen and Bath businesses, he realized to provide the best for Apple Wood clients, he and Lisa needed to expand Apple Wood Construction. That need birthed Apple Wood Kitchen and Bath which guaranteed any new construction kitchens and baths as well as remodeling the same would meet the same rigorous standards of excellence their
reputation as a quality home builder required.
You, our current as well as future new clients benefit greatly. With nearly three and a half decades of building every type of home and home project, there literally is nothing Lenny has not built. If you need more than just a kitchen or bath, you are in excellent hands. Whether your project is an interior project , deck, roof, siding, replacement windows all the way to adding a kitchen addition, Master Suite, Basement remodel, or complete second floor to your existing house, Lenny has experience and the expertise to do it all! THAT ability and service is without equal!
You are going to be pleasantly surprised as over the next few weeks I write to inform you about the cost versus value percentages on projects you have probably been pondering for a long time. You will not need to guess any longer. Now you will have the researched information to prioritize any and every investment you have considered making in your property.
Wednesday, January 25, 2017
Monday, January 16, 2017
Organization
The Holidays were wonderful. Then January comes and the joy I felt hanging the lights is reduced to a nagging awareness every time I pull into the driveway. Time to take then all down. I think I am beginning to understand why people just do not bother! I will, though.
Do you ever have an overwhelming feeling of frustration trying to find a certain spice, or cooking tool? Are your drawers so packed and messy that it is impossible to find what you need. I run into this situation every Thanksgiving and Christmas. I vow to clean our the drawers year after year. You know, " a place for everything and everything in its place!" Great goal that just keeps being added to my "To Do" list year after year! How about you?
We have great solutions for organizing. Let me make some suggestion. Many can be added to your existing cabinets. Others are ideas to tuck away for the future when you remodel. There is an accessory company called Rev-A-Shelf that manufactures many handy racks you can add to your current cabinets and drawers. Their product is generally made out of metal. There are also custom wood accessories that are very durable. If you still have a Blind Corner Base Cabinet that swallows anything you place in it, swing out shelving will solve the issue.
In our Dura Supreme Line Cutlery Dividers keep your silverware neat and organized. They come in single height and Two Tier Trays.
Next to your prep and stove area adding a Drawer Knife Holder keeps all your sharp knives neatly and safely in place.
Another great accessory near this area is the Drawer Spice Rack. It resembles a shallow staircase. Laying all your spices on each section really helps you see and access exactly which spice your recipe calls for.
A very handy organizer is a Sink Base Pull Out Caddy. It is perfect to hold all the cleaning supplies that tend to get knocked over and pushed out of reach!
Obviously adding such items in an existing kitchen can be challenging at times. When you begin to collect pictures, sketches of your ideas, and notes in your Dream Folder, be sure to ask your Designer about built in accessories available in the new cabinets. All of the ones I mentioned above are available , of course. Here are a few more that can be placed in the cabinets as they are assembled by the manufacturer. There are so many handy, functional options for spices. Many add a Design element that takes your kitchen to a custom level. Apothecary Spice Drawers are available as a horizontal addition under a wall cabinet. They are also wonderful placed vertically. I found these drawer very handy and functional! I kept my medications in one of the drawers close to my sink. Spatulas,knives, hand or tea towels fit perfectly in them too.
Where do you keep bottles? Oil, Vinegars, Wine, Liquor need a home. There are visible wine rack
cabinets. There is also a Bottle Rack in Deep Roll Out Shelf that is place in a base cabinet for 18 to 48 inches wide.
How about all those pot lids? Ugh! It can be so frustrating searching for the right size. How about Adding a Lid Storage Partition in a deep drawer that organizes every lid? Combine that with your Pots and Pans Drawer and everything is easily accessed!
How about your dinner plates being reached easily next to your stove? There are Plate Rack Drawers that make that happen. Another option we can show you here in our showroom is the versatile Dish Storage Drawer that can be re figured to fit any diameter plates. Want to replace your old plates with new ones? No problem. You just adjust the pegs to fit any size dish you want!
Remember the old bread box? If that appeals to you, Bread Drawer Covers are available, as are bread cutting boards and Chop Blocks.
I saved three of my favorites for last. Tray dividers are awesome. Maybe two is a good idea. One near the oven for baking cookies. The other one is perfect near your food prep of cooking area to hold your serving platters. Oh , If we could only have EVERYTHING we want!
I absolutely love Pull Out Fillers. These are typically three to six inches wide. Some are also available in 4" or 9" widths. These are handy to fill in gaps in the run of cabinets on a wall. Even better they are a Design feature that also gives you extra storage right where you need it. My favorite Pull Out Filler is faced with a Post or Column! This practical and beautiful addition takes your kitchen or bath design to a higher level!
Come see our showroom , we can show you all these awesome accessories! Happy New Year!
Do you ever have an overwhelming feeling of frustration trying to find a certain spice, or cooking tool? Are your drawers so packed and messy that it is impossible to find what you need. I run into this situation every Thanksgiving and Christmas. I vow to clean our the drawers year after year. You know, " a place for everything and everything in its place!" Great goal that just keeps being added to my "To Do" list year after year! How about you?
We have great solutions for organizing. Let me make some suggestion. Many can be added to your existing cabinets. Others are ideas to tuck away for the future when you remodel. There is an accessory company called Rev-A-Shelf that manufactures many handy racks you can add to your current cabinets and drawers. Their product is generally made out of metal. There are also custom wood accessories that are very durable. If you still have a Blind Corner Base Cabinet that swallows anything you place in it, swing out shelving will solve the issue.
In our Dura Supreme Line Cutlery Dividers keep your silverware neat and organized. They come in single height and Two Tier Trays.
Next to your prep and stove area adding a Drawer Knife Holder keeps all your sharp knives neatly and safely in place.
Another great accessory near this area is the Drawer Spice Rack. It resembles a shallow staircase. Laying all your spices on each section really helps you see and access exactly which spice your recipe calls for.
A very handy organizer is a Sink Base Pull Out Caddy. It is perfect to hold all the cleaning supplies that tend to get knocked over and pushed out of reach!
Obviously adding such items in an existing kitchen can be challenging at times. When you begin to collect pictures, sketches of your ideas, and notes in your Dream Folder, be sure to ask your Designer about built in accessories available in the new cabinets. All of the ones I mentioned above are available , of course. Here are a few more that can be placed in the cabinets as they are assembled by the manufacturer. There are so many handy, functional options for spices. Many add a Design element that takes your kitchen to a custom level. Apothecary Spice Drawers are available as a horizontal addition under a wall cabinet. They are also wonderful placed vertically. I found these drawer very handy and functional! I kept my medications in one of the drawers close to my sink. Spatulas,knives, hand or tea towels fit perfectly in them too.
Where do you keep bottles? Oil, Vinegars, Wine, Liquor need a home. There are visible wine rack
cabinets. There is also a Bottle Rack in Deep Roll Out Shelf that is place in a base cabinet for 18 to 48 inches wide.
How about all those pot lids? Ugh! It can be so frustrating searching for the right size. How about Adding a Lid Storage Partition in a deep drawer that organizes every lid? Combine that with your Pots and Pans Drawer and everything is easily accessed!
How about your dinner plates being reached easily next to your stove? There are Plate Rack Drawers that make that happen. Another option we can show you here in our showroom is the versatile Dish Storage Drawer that can be re figured to fit any diameter plates. Want to replace your old plates with new ones? No problem. You just adjust the pegs to fit any size dish you want!
Remember the old bread box? If that appeals to you, Bread Drawer Covers are available, as are bread cutting boards and Chop Blocks.
I saved three of my favorites for last. Tray dividers are awesome. Maybe two is a good idea. One near the oven for baking cookies. The other one is perfect near your food prep of cooking area to hold your serving platters. Oh , If we could only have EVERYTHING we want!
I absolutely love Pull Out Fillers. These are typically three to six inches wide. Some are also available in 4" or 9" widths. These are handy to fill in gaps in the run of cabinets on a wall. Even better they are a Design feature that also gives you extra storage right where you need it. My favorite Pull Out Filler is faced with a Post or Column! This practical and beautiful addition takes your kitchen or bath design to a higher level!
Come see our showroom , we can show you all these awesome accessories! Happy New Year!
Wednesday, January 4, 2017
Welcome 2017
It is 2017! Can you believe it?
How many years of family events around Christmas have gone by now since you began promising yourself a new Kitchen by next year?
There is nothing like trying to prepare food in a dysfunctional kitchen during the Holidays. Family and friends want to be in the center of the action helping and visiting. Is that delight possible in your current kitchen? How many cooks can really fit without bumping into each other? Do you have the appliances needed to prepare all that food and keep it hot at serving time?
Did you reach the limit of your patience this year? Is it finally time to get serious about updating the most important room in your home? If you have been reading this blog for awhile, you know how important it is to put together your "Wish Folder". Well, now is a great time to haul it out and add your thoughts. While the memory of what worked well and what did not last week is fresh, adding notes to guide your improvement of the situation is good right now.
Those ideas may cover what configuration and foot print will allow better flow of traffic and more "cooks in the kitchen". You may be reminded what a waste of space a certain cabinet has always been. What cabinet you could replace it with. It may be the realization of how a newer "Double Oven Range" would make cooking and serving a "hot" dinner easier. Or maybe, replacing that old style peninsula with a separate island would open up the room. Maybe that would allow four of you to have counter space to create while you enjoy talking and laughing as you do food prep. Maybe a prep sink in the island will help clean up after dinner.
We all fall into resignation and procrastination. Usually, it is because our normal kitchen routine does not really reveal what is completely unacceptable. Cooking, trying to keep food warm, and coordinating serving the food for Christmas, Easter. or Graduation celebrations for multiple people is an art form. Or maybe, the cost is what is most daunting to deal with.
Whatever, the hindrance is, reality tends to interrupt it this time of year. We all know expenses do not become less by waiting. In fact, they typically increase. The sooner you make the decision to invest in your home, peace of mind, and family life, the better where cost is concerned.
We are here to help you make the leap and decide 2017's Christmas will be enjoyed in your new kitchen. It is tempting to wait.After all that is a year away. Here is the reality. Remodeling is a multi step process. Each phase is time consuming. There are so many selections and decisions to make. They all take weeks usually. THEN, and only after those weeks pass does the actual demo and install begin. The average Kitchen remodel takes at least six months, if you know what you want, from planning to completion. If you need time to ponder options, it can take much longer. Getting started now will make next year so much more wonderful. It will also save you money over waiting another year or two. Promise!
How many years of family events around Christmas have gone by now since you began promising yourself a new Kitchen by next year?
There is nothing like trying to prepare food in a dysfunctional kitchen during the Holidays. Family and friends want to be in the center of the action helping and visiting. Is that delight possible in your current kitchen? How many cooks can really fit without bumping into each other? Do you have the appliances needed to prepare all that food and keep it hot at serving time?
Did you reach the limit of your patience this year? Is it finally time to get serious about updating the most important room in your home? If you have been reading this blog for awhile, you know how important it is to put together your "Wish Folder". Well, now is a great time to haul it out and add your thoughts. While the memory of what worked well and what did not last week is fresh, adding notes to guide your improvement of the situation is good right now.
Those ideas may cover what configuration and foot print will allow better flow of traffic and more "cooks in the kitchen". You may be reminded what a waste of space a certain cabinet has always been. What cabinet you could replace it with. It may be the realization of how a newer "Double Oven Range" would make cooking and serving a "hot" dinner easier. Or maybe, replacing that old style peninsula with a separate island would open up the room. Maybe that would allow four of you to have counter space to create while you enjoy talking and laughing as you do food prep. Maybe a prep sink in the island will help clean up after dinner.
We all fall into resignation and procrastination. Usually, it is because our normal kitchen routine does not really reveal what is completely unacceptable. Cooking, trying to keep food warm, and coordinating serving the food for Christmas, Easter. or Graduation celebrations for multiple people is an art form. Or maybe, the cost is what is most daunting to deal with.
Whatever, the hindrance is, reality tends to interrupt it this time of year. We all know expenses do not become less by waiting. In fact, they typically increase. The sooner you make the decision to invest in your home, peace of mind, and family life, the better where cost is concerned.
We are here to help you make the leap and decide 2017's Christmas will be enjoyed in your new kitchen. It is tempting to wait.After all that is a year away. Here is the reality. Remodeling is a multi step process. Each phase is time consuming. There are so many selections and decisions to make. They all take weeks usually. THEN, and only after those weeks pass does the actual demo and install begin. The average Kitchen remodel takes at least six months, if you know what you want, from planning to completion. If you need time to ponder options, it can take much longer. Getting started now will make next year so much more wonderful. It will also save you money over waiting another year or two. Promise!
Tuesday, December 27, 2016
Nothing Like Watching
I have an idea! I do not know why I have not done this!? We have a great Facebook Page where we post pictures. Let me ask you, would you enjoy my posting of pictures and videos in these Blog posts as well? I can post them and enter a more detailed description in the Blog.
Lenny has amazing abilities and results! Last week's post made me realize short videos and pictures help homeowners understand why and how things are accomplished. Seeing is believing too. It reduces stress created by the "unknown".
Like every professional, it is easy to forget your clients do NOT know what the process is. Isn't that true? I bet, as you go about your work day accomplishing what is "natural" for you, you minimize the skills and importance of the details particular to your services or jobs. We all assume our customers or clients know what we do or are not really interested. However, this is your home, your nest, and most likely, you are going to need to remain living and sleeping in it during the remodeling process.
So, I thought, "Ask the readers!"
Homeowners are shocked when they realize the decisions, selections, and sheer details that need to be discussed , understood, and accepted in the contract phase. I hope to create clarity and calm for you as you transition into the Demo Phase. Let's begin with some basics. We will post follow up pictures or videos that illustrate to help your understanding of what to expect.
Have you thought about how to protect your home's interior when you are busy improving it in a room close to another important gathering place in your home? Dust has a way of landing EVERYWHERE and traveling further than you ever thought possible! Let's begin there.
Of course this can have an impact on your physical health, especially your respiratory and visual health. However, it also impacts your emotional and mental health. The Demo phase is messy. There is no way to prevent that fact. Having your home torn apart while living in it is stressful! Yes, it is temporary and the results will be worth the inconvenience. However, it is a fact the homeowner must
factor in to their decisions.
In New England where many of our homes are 75 years old or older, we can run into specialized issues. I did in my Circa 1908 home remodeling our kitchen and bath. Improving one area should not impact another area negatively, right? The reality here is unique to the United States. In New England, where many of our homes were built decades: if not a century ago, horsehair plaster may be the way the walls were constructed. Have you ever broken into a wall made with it? Oh my, the fine dust is unbelievable! It can be impossible to capture if you are not prepared and ready to confine it. Even newer construction is messy, dusty, and unpleasant to work around or live in proximity to. So, what can be done to protect yourself, your family, pets, furniture and belongings?
Your best protection is a temporary wall made for the duration of the "dusty" phase. Plastic Sheeting to create dust barrier walls is a must! Any Contractor that takes pride in their professionalism and truly cares about the safety and health of you and your family will enclose the work area to confine the mess. They will also clean up daily before leaving the work site.
There is nothing like personal experience to help us understand what is important to your clients.
Honestly, as a Designer, I often discussed with my clients the need to be prepared realizing remodeling can be wonderful and exciting. It can also be stressful too. However, I did not know how stressful it could be until I remodeled my own kitchen and bath. Even knowing the process and inconvenience, I was not prepared for the days, I was just tired of my home being turned into a construction zone. It was worth it in the long run. It was still upsetting at times along the way.
Our repeat clients that contract with us for multiple projects do so based on our genuine care and concern for your project, your property, and your sanity. We would love to do the same for you!
There is a difference so it is important your award your project to a Contractor who keeps all of this in mind.
Lenny has amazing abilities and results! Last week's post made me realize short videos and pictures help homeowners understand why and how things are accomplished. Seeing is believing too. It reduces stress created by the "unknown".
Like every professional, it is easy to forget your clients do NOT know what the process is. Isn't that true? I bet, as you go about your work day accomplishing what is "natural" for you, you minimize the skills and importance of the details particular to your services or jobs. We all assume our customers or clients know what we do or are not really interested. However, this is your home, your nest, and most likely, you are going to need to remain living and sleeping in it during the remodeling process.
So, I thought, "Ask the readers!"
Homeowners are shocked when they realize the decisions, selections, and sheer details that need to be discussed , understood, and accepted in the contract phase. I hope to create clarity and calm for you as you transition into the Demo Phase. Let's begin with some basics. We will post follow up pictures or videos that illustrate to help your understanding of what to expect.
Have you thought about how to protect your home's interior when you are busy improving it in a room close to another important gathering place in your home? Dust has a way of landing EVERYWHERE and traveling further than you ever thought possible! Let's begin there.
Of course this can have an impact on your physical health, especially your respiratory and visual health. However, it also impacts your emotional and mental health. The Demo phase is messy. There is no way to prevent that fact. Having your home torn apart while living in it is stressful! Yes, it is temporary and the results will be worth the inconvenience. However, it is a fact the homeowner must
factor in to their decisions.
In New England where many of our homes are 75 years old or older, we can run into specialized issues. I did in my Circa 1908 home remodeling our kitchen and bath. Improving one area should not impact another area negatively, right? The reality here is unique to the United States. In New England, where many of our homes were built decades: if not a century ago, horsehair plaster may be the way the walls were constructed. Have you ever broken into a wall made with it? Oh my, the fine dust is unbelievable! It can be impossible to capture if you are not prepared and ready to confine it. Even newer construction is messy, dusty, and unpleasant to work around or live in proximity to. So, what can be done to protect yourself, your family, pets, furniture and belongings?
Your best protection is a temporary wall made for the duration of the "dusty" phase. Plastic Sheeting to create dust barrier walls is a must! Any Contractor that takes pride in their professionalism and truly cares about the safety and health of you and your family will enclose the work area to confine the mess. They will also clean up daily before leaving the work site.
There is nothing like personal experience to help us understand what is important to your clients.
Honestly, as a Designer, I often discussed with my clients the need to be prepared realizing remodeling can be wonderful and exciting. It can also be stressful too. However, I did not know how stressful it could be until I remodeled my own kitchen and bath. Even knowing the process and inconvenience, I was not prepared for the days, I was just tired of my home being turned into a construction zone. It was worth it in the long run. It was still upsetting at times along the way.
Our repeat clients that contract with us for multiple projects do so based on our genuine care and concern for your project, your property, and your sanity. We would love to do the same for you!
There is a difference so it is important your award your project to a Contractor who keeps all of this in mind.
Wednesday, December 14, 2016
Did you know?
It occurs to me today , every blog post I do is about us doing kitchen or bath remodeling projects. I'm going to diversify today. There are endless projects homeowners need and want so please bare with me while I clue you in to the exciting truth of all Apple Wood can accomplish for you.
Did you know we do EVERYTHING? What? Really? Yes, really! I know that is uncommon. How can that be? Well, it is past time for me to let you know ANY need, interest, or improvement to your home inside or out can be accomplished here at Apple Wood Kitchen and Bath. Yes, it is true!
Apple Wood Kitchen and Bath was created only 4 years ago. Lenny and Lisa Santosuosso also own a General Contracting Home Building business (Apple Wood Construction). They opened it long before our Kitchen & Bath showroom existed.
Lenny went to a vocational high school to learn the construction trade. By the time Lenny was seventeen, he was an experienced carpenter and craftsman. The family pride in helping home owners has continued for generations in the Santosuosso family. Now, Lenny the fourth is learning the business along side his Dad. You gotta love that! I do !
In addition to our Design Build approach to kitchens and baths, Lenny is a new home builder. We
also do decks, additions, siding, windows, fireplaces, flooring, remove supporting walls to create open concept homes. If you want something done around the house chances are Apple Wood can do it for you.
Referral and repeat business is what all construction professionals hope for. Apple Wood thrives on repeat business. Once a homeowner experiences our design expertise and Lenny's craftsmanship, their wish list for home improvement projects expands. It is very common for our clients to tell us to get ready and prepare to get the thumbs up to do the bath, or kitchen, or a garage, or the deck next.
Think about the importance and value of working with a contractor who can do any and everything you want or need. It is extremely rare for one homeowner to afford every project they want to do all at the same time. However, to have the freedom to brainstorm and prioritize the current project keeping future ones in mind saves time, stress and money. Working with one company , hopefully Apple Wood, helps eliminate the issues that may arise hiring different companies for different projects.
So how did our Kitchen Bath Showroom come into being? Why is it what everyone associates Apple Wood with? Let me explain. When you are a General Contractor you are overseeing every component needed to build a complete home or business building. You build a team of sub contractors you trust , rely on and hire to build your clients home or business. The GC has to research, contact, and develop a working relationship with electricians, plumbers, roofers, siding companies, flooring, tile, and kitchen and bath designers and showrooms. The Contractor works hard to find synergistic partnerships with subs he can count on to be committed to the same level of quality he is. That can be quite a challenge.
Initially, Lenny endeavored to find Kitchen and Bath showrooms and professionals he was confident in. They needed to be ethical, dependable, organized, and detailed. They needed to have the same commitment to excellence Lenny has. After having difficulty finding someone to work the decision was made to open his own cabinet showroom. Too many compromises were happening working with outside Kitchen and Bath professionals and showrooms. That is how Apple Wood Kitchen and Bath was born. We have been much happier and so have our clients.
If there is any profession where being OCD and a perfectionist is a good thing, it is remodeling. In fact , I would go so far as to say, those attributes should be present in anyone remodeling homes.
Think about it. Remodeling an existing space is a combination of art, creativity, math , and craftsmanship. If any of those ingredients are missing, the results will be lacking.
I love working for the Santosouosso's for many reasons. They are people of their word, dependable, honest and excellent at their craft. Your project will be competitively priced, on budget, and on time. You will not be disappointed. I would be so bold to say, you will be a client for life.
Come see us and find out for yourself!
Did you know we do EVERYTHING? What? Really? Yes, really! I know that is uncommon. How can that be? Well, it is past time for me to let you know ANY need, interest, or improvement to your home inside or out can be accomplished here at Apple Wood Kitchen and Bath. Yes, it is true!
Apple Wood Kitchen and Bath was created only 4 years ago. Lenny and Lisa Santosuosso also own a General Contracting Home Building business (Apple Wood Construction). They opened it long before our Kitchen & Bath showroom existed.
Lenny went to a vocational high school to learn the construction trade. By the time Lenny was seventeen, he was an experienced carpenter and craftsman. The family pride in helping home owners has continued for generations in the Santosuosso family. Now, Lenny the fourth is learning the business along side his Dad. You gotta love that! I do !
In addition to our Design Build approach to kitchens and baths, Lenny is a new home builder. We
also do decks, additions, siding, windows, fireplaces, flooring, remove supporting walls to create open concept homes. If you want something done around the house chances are Apple Wood can do it for you.
Referral and repeat business is what all construction professionals hope for. Apple Wood thrives on repeat business. Once a homeowner experiences our design expertise and Lenny's craftsmanship, their wish list for home improvement projects expands. It is very common for our clients to tell us to get ready and prepare to get the thumbs up to do the bath, or kitchen, or a garage, or the deck next.
Think about the importance and value of working with a contractor who can do any and everything you want or need. It is extremely rare for one homeowner to afford every project they want to do all at the same time. However, to have the freedom to brainstorm and prioritize the current project keeping future ones in mind saves time, stress and money. Working with one company , hopefully Apple Wood, helps eliminate the issues that may arise hiring different companies for different projects.
So how did our Kitchen Bath Showroom come into being? Why is it what everyone associates Apple Wood with? Let me explain. When you are a General Contractor you are overseeing every component needed to build a complete home or business building. You build a team of sub contractors you trust , rely on and hire to build your clients home or business. The GC has to research, contact, and develop a working relationship with electricians, plumbers, roofers, siding companies, flooring, tile, and kitchen and bath designers and showrooms. The Contractor works hard to find synergistic partnerships with subs he can count on to be committed to the same level of quality he is. That can be quite a challenge.
Initially, Lenny endeavored to find Kitchen and Bath showrooms and professionals he was confident in. They needed to be ethical, dependable, organized, and detailed. They needed to have the same commitment to excellence Lenny has. After having difficulty finding someone to work the decision was made to open his own cabinet showroom. Too many compromises were happening working with outside Kitchen and Bath professionals and showrooms. That is how Apple Wood Kitchen and Bath was born. We have been much happier and so have our clients.
If there is any profession where being OCD and a perfectionist is a good thing, it is remodeling. In fact , I would go so far as to say, those attributes should be present in anyone remodeling homes.
Think about it. Remodeling an existing space is a combination of art, creativity, math , and craftsmanship. If any of those ingredients are missing, the results will be lacking.
I love working for the Santosouosso's for many reasons. They are people of their word, dependable, honest and excellent at their craft. Your project will be competitively priced, on budget, and on time. You will not be disappointed. I would be so bold to say, you will be a client for life.
Come see us and find out for yourself!
Tuesday, December 6, 2016
Unusual Yet Convenient Items to Include
New England is filled with such variety. Especially, where homes are concerned. Since America began here long before we won our independence from England, we still have homes from the 1700's, even earlier in the late 1600s. I love the Post and Beam Construction of many of New Hampshire's early homes!
One of the fun things about a career in remodeling is seeing so many of these homes original kitchen hearths and bun ovens. I have designed and coordinated the installation of kitchen additions fortunate enough to "keep" the historical items in place while designing and building a new kitchen with all the conveniences of this century within the same room or very close by. These homes take the warmth and nostalgia of our rich history to a higher level. Being invited to special Holiday Events by the owners of an Historical Home is truly a special treat!
Many of these Historical Homes are in some of New Hampshire's cities, some in the country, or little villages between the two. We are surrounded with a rich tapestry of beauty homes of all sizes and design styles. The homes that happen to have acreage are especially beautiful. I love seeing gardens, horses, livestock, and the pets that belong. My purpose for this unusual topic and the title of this post
relates to those family members loved by all, our dogs.
Mud Rooms are an integral and important addition to New England homes. "Mud" being a very appropriate term, especially for homes with land, gardens, and animals to care for. Most animals do not enter the house. Dogs are the exception. I want to share some fairly new features many homeowners are considering and installing when remodeling these days. Function is key yet cabinet manufacturers, along with plumbers and tile designers and retailers have met a need very creatively! What could that be?
Let me set the scene. Often the mudroom is near the kitchen entrance and pantry or laundry area. These "necessary " rooms, especially in New England are set apart from the living or dining room areas where you socialize with friends and gather as a family. These functional areas are perfect for receiving the homeowner after working outside. Generally located near a back door and or the garage they help keep other rooms tidy, neat, and clean. Mud Room is the perfect description.
What special features are designed for this space? For awhile now, designing a wall or corner configuration of cabinets to hang coats, hats, scarves, gloves and umbrellas has become very popular.
Since our winters can be raw we are in need of multi layers of jackets to heavy coats, hats, gloves, the more room you can spare for this practical space, the better! Here are a couple of ideas my clients have found key.
1. Seating that functions as hidden storage is perfect. It gives you a place to sit for ease taking off
boots.
2. Tall cabinets to anchor cabinets on two walls meeting in a corner allow more hidden storage.
3. Wall Panels like Bead Board add a country rural feel. If your home is more formal a Raised or
Recessed Panel to match your kitchen cabinet doors works perfectly too. Picture the anchor Tall
Cabinets connected at the base to the seating cabinets. The wall panels connect it all finished off
with beautifully stained Solid Stock installed horizontally accessorized with sturdy coat hooks. The final touch being crown molding on the tall cabinets as well as the expanse of the solid stock trim.
4. If the square footage allows, some deep "Pots and Pans " Drawer bases are perfect for hat, scarf,
and gloves storage.
5. This is also a perfect place for some Trash and Recycling Cabinets.
6. A handy and convenient black board or bulletin board to keep track of dates for activities would be
a great addition too.
7. I have actually designed a work space with shelves into Mud Rooms occasionally. They became
excellent drop off points for the kids homework assignments , books , etc. The routine of knowing that is where everything is can help keep the kitchen counters and island less cluttered.
It may not be practical or possible to integrate all these options. It is a great idea to consider what would be best for your lifestyle.
Okay, are you ready for a fairly new trend? I think the practicality of it will win you over, if you have four legged family members, especially big dogs. Recently there has been an interest in a new focus in these rooms as well. It is a practical "luxury" that also keeps the rest of your home free and safe from dirt or mud being tracked in by your pets.
Building in a corner doggie shower is the new rage! People who have them do not know how they managed with out them before! What? A dog shower? Okay stay with me, I will explain.
Have you had to clean up your bathroom walls, tub, shower after "finally " breaking down and bathing your dog? Yeah, how did you like that?
Adding a shower pan in a corner of your mudroom, with tile extending up the walls 3 to 5 feet is a perfect dedicated place to bathe your pets , "BEFORE" they walk through your clean house with mud all over them or their feet. This is a mini shower with plumbing and a faucet you can extend to wash and rinse "Buddy" as you get all the yuck taken care of in one easy convenient place.
As I said , our clients who have them wonder why they did not think of this years ago! Just sayin!
One of the fun things about a career in remodeling is seeing so many of these homes original kitchen hearths and bun ovens. I have designed and coordinated the installation of kitchen additions fortunate enough to "keep" the historical items in place while designing and building a new kitchen with all the conveniences of this century within the same room or very close by. These homes take the warmth and nostalgia of our rich history to a higher level. Being invited to special Holiday Events by the owners of an Historical Home is truly a special treat!
Many of these Historical Homes are in some of New Hampshire's cities, some in the country, or little villages between the two. We are surrounded with a rich tapestry of beauty homes of all sizes and design styles. The homes that happen to have acreage are especially beautiful. I love seeing gardens, horses, livestock, and the pets that belong. My purpose for this unusual topic and the title of this post
relates to those family members loved by all, our dogs.
Mud Rooms are an integral and important addition to New England homes. "Mud" being a very appropriate term, especially for homes with land, gardens, and animals to care for. Most animals do not enter the house. Dogs are the exception. I want to share some fairly new features many homeowners are considering and installing when remodeling these days. Function is key yet cabinet manufacturers, along with plumbers and tile designers and retailers have met a need very creatively! What could that be?
Let me set the scene. Often the mudroom is near the kitchen entrance and pantry or laundry area. These "necessary " rooms, especially in New England are set apart from the living or dining room areas where you socialize with friends and gather as a family. These functional areas are perfect for receiving the homeowner after working outside. Generally located near a back door and or the garage they help keep other rooms tidy, neat, and clean. Mud Room is the perfect description.
What special features are designed for this space? For awhile now, designing a wall or corner configuration of cabinets to hang coats, hats, scarves, gloves and umbrellas has become very popular.
Since our winters can be raw we are in need of multi layers of jackets to heavy coats, hats, gloves, the more room you can spare for this practical space, the better! Here are a couple of ideas my clients have found key.
1. Seating that functions as hidden storage is perfect. It gives you a place to sit for ease taking off
boots.
2. Tall cabinets to anchor cabinets on two walls meeting in a corner allow more hidden storage.
3. Wall Panels like Bead Board add a country rural feel. If your home is more formal a Raised or
Recessed Panel to match your kitchen cabinet doors works perfectly too. Picture the anchor Tall
Cabinets connected at the base to the seating cabinets. The wall panels connect it all finished off
with beautifully stained Solid Stock installed horizontally accessorized with sturdy coat hooks. The final touch being crown molding on the tall cabinets as well as the expanse of the solid stock trim.
4. If the square footage allows, some deep "Pots and Pans " Drawer bases are perfect for hat, scarf,
and gloves storage.
5. This is also a perfect place for some Trash and Recycling Cabinets.
6. A handy and convenient black board or bulletin board to keep track of dates for activities would be
a great addition too.
7. I have actually designed a work space with shelves into Mud Rooms occasionally. They became
excellent drop off points for the kids homework assignments , books , etc. The routine of knowing that is where everything is can help keep the kitchen counters and island less cluttered.
It may not be practical or possible to integrate all these options. It is a great idea to consider what would be best for your lifestyle.
Okay, are you ready for a fairly new trend? I think the practicality of it will win you over, if you have four legged family members, especially big dogs. Recently there has been an interest in a new focus in these rooms as well. It is a practical "luxury" that also keeps the rest of your home free and safe from dirt or mud being tracked in by your pets.
Building in a corner doggie shower is the new rage! People who have them do not know how they managed with out them before! What? A dog shower? Okay stay with me, I will explain.
Have you had to clean up your bathroom walls, tub, shower after "finally " breaking down and bathing your dog? Yeah, how did you like that?
Adding a shower pan in a corner of your mudroom, with tile extending up the walls 3 to 5 feet is a perfect dedicated place to bathe your pets , "BEFORE" they walk through your clean house with mud all over them or their feet. This is a mini shower with plumbing and a faucet you can extend to wash and rinse "Buddy" as you get all the yuck taken care of in one easy convenient place.
As I said , our clients who have them wonder why they did not think of this years ago! Just sayin!
Wednesday, November 30, 2016
Storage Solutions in Larger Kitchens
Today lets talk about some very convenient storage solutions for your larger kitchen.
Spacious Kitchens are a wonderful luxury. They make us feel pampered, blessed, and excited about all the people who can easily gather in the heart of our home! So are there any negatives?
Well, the answer is yes. Maybe the sink counter area or cooking prep area is way across the room from the Professional sized Sub Zero Refrigerator. ( or other high end brand ). It is time to make sandwiches or dice veggies for dinner. There is a creative solution.
Remember the pots and pans drawers we explored a few weeks ago? I bet you may not know there are refrigerator drawers that can be installed in your island next to a prep sink. Storing your vegetables in one of these drawers is perfect. They are massive compared to the normal crisper drawer. Produce remains fresher because it is not subjected to continual changes in temperature caused by the opening of the main refrigerator doors. You can select drawers to stack vertically or horizontally. How about one for the produce and the second dedicated to sandwich ingredients?
Right next to these drawers is the perfect place for a couple of other handy practical cabinets. A pull out 15 to 24 inch wide Double Trash Container Cabinet makes life easier. We talked about pull out 3 to 6 " filler width units perfect to hold spices, vinegar, or oils to store, last week. If more space is needed for the same items, they are also available in 9 to 18 inch pullout cabinets. The larger ones are food items needed on a daily basis.
In the baking area near your ovens, tray cabinets are perfect! These cabinets come slotted to protect your serving platters or trays from banging into one another. They are also great to hold cookie sheets etc. Again, you may only have room or need for a 6 to 9 inch wide tray cabinet. However if you have multiple platters or baking trays you can utilize 12 to 24 inch, or wider to secure whatever space you need. Pulling out a single platter or tray is so much better than trying to access one stacked inside a cabinet. Doesn't it always seem like the one you want is on the bottom of that stack?
It is very convenient in a large kitchen to have a wall of tall cabinets for food storage that may supplement a walk in pantry. Or you may add that wall of tall cabinets "in" the pantry area. Cabinets with roll out shelves are perfect for pantry food storage. Plus once again the "Pull Out " or " Sliding Pantry" Cabinet option is available in Tall Cabinets as well. These cabinets pull straight out and everything on the shelves is seen and accessible quickly from both sides. The inner hardware used guarantee pulling out the entire door attached to the shelving happens smoothly. Surprisingly so!
Last but certainly not least is interior dividers you can add to all the drawers in your kitchen. The configurations can be custom designed creating a place for every item. Then "every item in its place" is a snap.
We have lots of drawings and pictures with all the details if you are excited about the MOST organized functional kitchen you have ever dreamt of! We are here to listen to your specific and personal needs and wish list!
Spacious Kitchens are a wonderful luxury. They make us feel pampered, blessed, and excited about all the people who can easily gather in the heart of our home! So are there any negatives?
Well, the answer is yes. Maybe the sink counter area or cooking prep area is way across the room from the Professional sized Sub Zero Refrigerator. ( or other high end brand ). It is time to make sandwiches or dice veggies for dinner. There is a creative solution.
Remember the pots and pans drawers we explored a few weeks ago? I bet you may not know there are refrigerator drawers that can be installed in your island next to a prep sink. Storing your vegetables in one of these drawers is perfect. They are massive compared to the normal crisper drawer. Produce remains fresher because it is not subjected to continual changes in temperature caused by the opening of the main refrigerator doors. You can select drawers to stack vertically or horizontally. How about one for the produce and the second dedicated to sandwich ingredients?
Right next to these drawers is the perfect place for a couple of other handy practical cabinets. A pull out 15 to 24 inch wide Double Trash Container Cabinet makes life easier. We talked about pull out 3 to 6 " filler width units perfect to hold spices, vinegar, or oils to store, last week. If more space is needed for the same items, they are also available in 9 to 18 inch pullout cabinets. The larger ones are food items needed on a daily basis.
In the baking area near your ovens, tray cabinets are perfect! These cabinets come slotted to protect your serving platters or trays from banging into one another. They are also great to hold cookie sheets etc. Again, you may only have room or need for a 6 to 9 inch wide tray cabinet. However if you have multiple platters or baking trays you can utilize 12 to 24 inch, or wider to secure whatever space you need. Pulling out a single platter or tray is so much better than trying to access one stacked inside a cabinet. Doesn't it always seem like the one you want is on the bottom of that stack?
It is very convenient in a large kitchen to have a wall of tall cabinets for food storage that may supplement a walk in pantry. Or you may add that wall of tall cabinets "in" the pantry area. Cabinets with roll out shelves are perfect for pantry food storage. Plus once again the "Pull Out " or " Sliding Pantry" Cabinet option is available in Tall Cabinets as well. These cabinets pull straight out and everything on the shelves is seen and accessible quickly from both sides. The inner hardware used guarantee pulling out the entire door attached to the shelving happens smoothly. Surprisingly so!
Last but certainly not least is interior dividers you can add to all the drawers in your kitchen. The configurations can be custom designed creating a place for every item. Then "every item in its place" is a snap.
We have lots of drawings and pictures with all the details if you are excited about the MOST organized functional kitchen you have ever dreamt of! We are here to listen to your specific and personal needs and wish list!
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