Friday 13 December 2019

Rustic kitchen makeover: tips and advice to give a kick back to space


A rustic kitchen enjoys a special appeal and no one can deny it. The atmosphere is reminiscent of childhood memories and happy moments, shared with the family, in the warmest and friendliest place in the house. However, a wooden kitchen that went out of fashion a long time ago must finally stay in the past. There are many reasons for resorting to renovation and there are many possible approaches. Whoever plans to embark on a relooking rustic kitchen, will probably need ideas and advice to do it without fake and without taste. As usual, we are at your side to guide you in this experience.

Rustic kitchen makeover: what you need to know
makeover kitchen rustic conteporaine large central island solid wood floor wood cabinets white interiors


It is important to emphasize that, before anything else, it is possible to make the kitchen rustic makeover without necessarily changing everything. Out of question therefore to get rid of all the furniture and acquire new ones. Sometimes, some light renovations are enough to give the room the revival it needs. Follow our advice and you will have no trouble revamping your space.



makeover rustic kitchen modern island wood worktop stone



Want a little makeover rustic kitchen? If this is the case, repainting the wooden furniture (with a special paint, of course) turns out to be the most "logical" approach to try. Choose a painting that reveals the veins of wood to retain its charm. Before taking the plunge, it is important to remove the doors, drawers, pedestals, skirting boards and handles. Then clean it thoroughly and sand and dust before applying your paint.

Sometimes, some light renovations are enough ...
makeover rustic kitchen exposed beams dark wood flooring

If you prefer to avoid painting, all you have to do is change the doors and drawers of your kitchen furniture . Replace them with new ones that will bring a breath of fresh air to your space. On the other hand, the MDM and plywood panels will allow you to cover old-fashioned façades while keeping your elements. A clever idea for those who want to save money.

makeover rustic kitchen large closet wall small central island wood recup

Sponsored Links: Kitchen Colors 2021


In the majority of cases, the rustic kitchen makeover goes through the step of replacing the work plan. This is inevitable in cases where the work plan in question is very damaged or outdated. The other possible approach is to cover the plane with brushed aluminum plates or any suitable thin coating.

Some clever ideas to consider
makeover rustic kitchen facade cabinets wood open shelves two-tone wood table



The old-fashioned tiled splashback is one of the common problems that a rustic kitchen presents. However, there are solutions that help revamp the backsplash and, as a result, give the room a fresh boost. As for the tiled splashback, there is nothing easier than repainting it, with a special tiled paint. The other solution is to adorn the wall of a decorative panel (vinyl, glass), put a suitable wallpaper or modern tiles. It is possible to bet either on a credenza that matches well with the color of the kitchen furniture / wall painting, or on a model that contrasts with the rest of the decor.

makeover rustic kitchen central island wood credence tiling metro white



The rustic kitchen makeover also goes through the cooling of the walls and the floor. First of all, old-fashioned interior carpentry can be replaced or simply some light renovation work done. To do this, dismantle the frames and check their condition. A stroke of paint will be enough to give them a new look. If you prefer, skip this step and proceed to the installation of brand new frames. Side wall painting, the ideal would be to choose a color that will bring brightness in the room. As for the flooring, an old-fashioned tile can simply be covered with deco self-adhesive tiles.

Any kitchen deserves a well thought out layout adapted to the way of life of the residents
relooking modern rustic kitchen credence tiling metal furniture wood barn

In summary, like any other renovation project, the rustic kitchen relooking inevitably goes through some work, either light or heavy. It basically depends on the idea that the owners have in mind, as well as the existing situation. Small cosmetic work or in-depth renovation is a process that must be carefully planned and organized. The kitchen being the heart of a house, deserves a well thought out layout, adapted to the lifestyle of the residents and in harmony with the present time. In this context, when thinking of the rustic kitchen makeover, first of all, we must think of the ergonomic arrangement, comfortable and functional and, second, the aesthetic rendering.

Tuesday 10 December 2019

The Kallax library from another angle


On sale for a long time, Ikea furniture in general, and the Kallax range in particular, are characterized by their ability to adapt to a variety of tastes, budgets and spaces. Over the years, the Kallax library among others, has established itself as a classic that finds its place everywhere in the house. It is interesting to know that the Kallax Bookshelf was formerly known on the market as Expédit, but the main concept remains the same. Any Kallax piece is easy to customize and gives free rein to creativity. With this article, we set ourselves the goal of making you see your Kallax from a new angle to explore all the customization variants it offers.




The Kallax Library is not only used to store books
library ikea kallax shelf



Let's start by reminding ourselves that Ikea furniture is suitable for almost infinite customization, depending on taste and available space. The Swedish decoration giant offers furniture and accessories that are among the most adaptable, beautiful and fun ever made. In addition to being cheap, they have a look that is both refined and elegant. And in our opinion, this reputation of the brand is well deserved.

What are the alternative uses of a Kallax library?
ikea kallax library

It is obvious that the main purpose of a library is to store books. But with Kallax, it turns out there are plenty of other options to use. The possibilities multiply further when one realizes the different formats available. The Kallax library comes in four versions: 4 squares in square or in length, 8 squares, 16 squares and 25 squares. The price varies according to size and wood.

A Kallax shelf as a room divider

shelf ikea kallax room divider

It can be used as room divider or living room space for example. It is a modern and practical way to delimit spaces.

Library transformed into TV stand

furniture tv kallax ikea



If you wish, you can set feet on a Kallax bookcase to make a TV stand. Make sure the number of feet is enough. If necessary, you can put 6 feet instead of 4, or fix the TV stand to the wall to ensure its stability.

Why buy a wine rack, if you have a Kallax library?

library kallax bottle rack





Turn your Kallax library into a wine bottle rack by inserting a Hutten wine bottle storage shelf. And now, in the blink of an eye you already have a wine bar! A kind of homemade wine cellar, it's always a good idea! You can also make room for other matching bottles, ice creams and accessories. We are sure men will love this idea!

The library as an exhibition window

kallax library ikea



And so as not to disappoint our friends, the queens of shopping who like to buy handbags or shoes, we will offer them an alternative use of the Kallax library. They can use it as a showcase to display their treasured possessions in style. Remember to add a suitable lighting to emphasize your little treasures.

Kallax for the children's room

ikea kallax shelf

We will pay special attention to mothers who are tired of picking up scattered toys everywhere. The Kallax Library is a way to better organize the children's room to bring order to the chaos.

The Kallax library transformed into a locker

kallax locker locker

A few doors will be enough to make a Kallax library a very practical solution for confined spaces. The large number of boxes available makes it possible to store even shoes.

cat kallax space

And not to neglect domestic cats, we offer this last use of the Kallax library. We know that cats seek comfort, so it's a way to provide them with a private space so that your cat relaxes in style.

Useful tips:

kallax showcase in vintage style

It is very important to consider the weight your library can support depending on its usage. Spice racks in the kitchen barely need support, while built-in bookshelves have a heavy load. The contents of the shelves are really important! If the bookcase is wall mounted, the different materials require different types of wall mount devices that are sold separately. Always place the safety first to avoid possible accidents.

kallax kitchen separator

Maybe you will find other ways to customize your Kallax. The imagination is boundless! We gave you some ideas, now it's up to you to dare to start and experiment!

Sunday 8 December 2019

How to decorate the kitchen with a sink at the window


We tell you what to look for when moving the sink to the window, how to choose the right mixer and accessories.


How to decorate the kitchen with a sink at the window: useful tips






A kitchen with a sink by the window is one of the trends of recent years, which is often used by designers both in large areas. And if during the construction of a private house or cottage you can easily implement this idea, then with the transfer of the existing system in a typical apartment, problems often arise. Let's figure out how to avoid mistakes and make this process easier.

Pros and cons of shell transfer

The sink transfer design technique has clear advantages.
Benefits
The main plus is a beautiful view, not a blank wall. Washing dishes will no longer be a boring monotonous process.
If the room is small, this solution will help to increase the working surface. Especially if the level of the windowsill coincides with the countertop. Plus, the space under it will also be used for a cabinet where you can store household chemicals and utensils.
It will be possible to save electricity. Sometimes the sink is located so poorly, for example, in a dark corner, that even in the afternoon you have to turn on the light. In the kitchen with a sink under the window, such a problem will definitely not be.
Disadvantages
But there are also disadvantages that are also worth considering.
The process of transfer and installation cannot be called simple. And in some cases, when the difference between the height of the table and the window sill is large and the opening is lower, you will have to transfer it. This will require a separate approval.
In order for the sash to open wide, it will be necessary to consider the location and shape of the mixer.
Wooden window frames are also not suitable for such a room. They will constantly get splashes of water, and any tree is afraid of this. We'll have to replace it with plastic. The same, by the way, applies to countertops. Look at the options of artificial or natural stone.
Water will fall both on the curtains and on the glass. Be prepared for the fact that the glass will have to be washed often.
Another danger is fogging of windows and frames, and, as a result, mold . This can be avoided by installing a ventilation grill in the countertop, so the air from the battery will reach the windows.
If these points do not scare you, you can safely proceed to implement the idea. Moreover, such a technique fits into any interior. He looks good in the loft, and in the country, and even in the classical style. And especially good - in the kitchen, combined with the living room,

Shell Transfer Features

If you live in an apartment building, even in a small corner kitchen , you will have to coordinate the transfer of the sink to the window, because this is a wet zone. Therefore, any mistake can lead to flooding of neighbors. It is unlikely that it will be possible to independently carry out the plan, you will have to look for professionals.
Matching is not required only if you move the sink along the wall.

What is important to consider

To extend the communications, metal-plastic or polypropylene pipes are used , for drainage - from polyethylene. They are installed at an angle to avoid blockages.
If the distance from the planned position of the sink to the intended one is more than three meters, the risk of frequent blockages increases at times. In this case, it is better to additionally install a food waste grinder - a disposer. The size of the sink is not important here. But even the husk, peel and small food debris will be crushed to a slurry that is safe for pipes before entering the drain.
There is no unequivocal opinion at what level to establish a working surface. Some experts recommend doing it above the windowsill, others - at the same level. To choose the height of the countertops, focus primarily on your own feelings and comfort. But in the first case, splashes from water and detergent on the glass will be much less.
Another point is the loss of heat when installing the cabinet under the sink. It is almost impossible to transfer the battery, but in small rooms there is simply nowhere to go. And if you close it with a closet, in the winter the room will be cold and damp.
The simplest solution is the ventilation grill between the window sill and countertop. But it will not give one hundred percent result. It will be necessary to consider alternative sources of heat: at least - a heater, maximum - installation of a warm floor .

Mixer selection

The kitchen is an area with an abundance of smells. And not always even a powerful hood is able to cope with them. Therefore, the ability to open the window sashes wide is not a whim, but a necessity. And on a hot day, I often want to ventilate the room. Often the mixer interferes with this.
What to do if the mixer interferes with opening a window?
Pay attention to the photo of the sink by the window in the kitchen, the designers offer the following solutions to the problem with the doors.
Place the faucet closer to the edge, not in the center of the sink.
You can choose a retractable, swivel or folding crane model.
If the window is located just above the level of the countertop, look at the low mixer, which will not interfere with the movement of the sash.
A deep sink will help reduce water splashing around. If the dishwasher is not provided, choose a sink with a draining board or with a second bowl. There are even compact options for small and narrow countertops. They are much more convenient than classic ones.

The choice of accessories for the kitchen with a sink near the window

If curtains of almost any shape are suitable for a regular window opening, then there are limitations to the curtain above the sink. They are connected with the practical side.
The choice of rolled and Roman models of curtains, the height of which can be adjusted, will help to avoid getting water on textiles .
By the same principle, blinds or curtains are selected “day-night”.
In the photo of the interiors of the kitchen with a sink at the window, the curtains of the cafe look great. This, by the way, is one of the favorite accessories of designers working with country style, shabby chic and provence.
The windowsill can be used not only as a work surface, but also to decorate a room by placing here, for example, flowers. The main plus (for the lazy) is to water them very conveniently, no need to leave the tap.
Remember to equip the sink space with an additional light source. Despite the daylight, in the evening you will most likely cover your chandelier with your back. Therefore, it is appropriate to put the lamp opposite or hang the wall sconces.

The modern kitchen with island in exclusive ideas featuring conviviality, ease and dynamism


The big day has finally arrived: you have the unique opportunity to imagine and design the kitchen of your dreams! You know exactly what you are looking for. Aesthetics, functionality, ergonomics and adaptability are in the top of your list of criteria. So, it's clear that your choice should stop on contemporary architectural designs. And as the trend is now to sharing and conviviality, the universes are no longer separate. The kitchen (often called open) has many strengths making it the best choice in its genre. The modern kitchen with island open to a second living room is indeed a promise to have a friendly and functional space, contemporary and pleasant to live.




Modern kitchen with island open to a second living room


One of the great attractions of a modern island kitchen is that it mixes functions and spaces. His conception of "collective life" is supported by the friendly atmosphere, the sensation of volume and the abundance of light. A part of life in their own right, parents, children and guests meet together to cook and discuss without necessarily staying away from their loved ones.


Indeed, the main idea of the open concept is to keep a view of children or guests while cooking in a comfortable space and not (or almost) isolated. To this end, we stand in the modern kitchen with island allowing us to structure the spaces without closing them.


The future trend remains on the kitchen-dining duo as a central living space. Very design, this new piece together serves as a reception venue. Of course, one who prefers to partition the various areas while discretion, could mount a sliding door or an inner canopy.


Centerpiece in the kitchen, the central island showcases culinary pleasures. Made of noble materials and elegant, this essential element exudes timeless refinement. The sober details, the dark colors and the precious materials (wood, stone, glass) are in the spotlight. We also do not forget the great return of metal finishes (gold, silver, brass, copper) in the decor.


Nothing like an island to equip a modern and functional kitchen. Reserved for meals or welcoming the hotplates or sink, the island is the star of American cuisine. Depending on its design, it is even to the point of eclipsing the other furniture in the room.

Functionality and aesthetics go hand in hand in the modern kitchen with island




A modern kitchen with island, it rhymes with functionality. How to prove it? In a kitchen, you can deprive yourself of all other storage and closets, but this, provided you have a central counter well equipped. So, we will not miss anything.


Having a modern kitchen with island is the assurance of having a flexible and dynamic kitchen. We share friendly moments, we cook and tidy, we have lunch and receive friends. And it is the island that contributes the most to our comfort and ease.


With the rise of open kitchens , the island, regardless of its concept, is a real craze. The explanation is simple: it provides a very design aesthetic and it connects the kitchen with other rooms to live. As already mentioned, the islet enjoys a central place in the kitchen, conducive to exchanges and sharing.


So, in addition to responding to the desire for a very design aesthetic, the island allows a certain flexibility with regard to its location. Thus, it is possible that it is placed in the center of the kitchen or on one side, attached to a wall.

Prefer an island for kitchen furniture


On the design side, the modern kitchen with island allows all audacities. We have the choice to prefer an island matching the furniture, or cons play contrast card with colors and materials present in the room. If the configuration allows, it is advisable to have bar stools around the island. Thus, the person who prepares the meal will not stay away from his hosts.


In recent years, the bar in the open kitchen has gradually been replaced by the island. Generally positioned in the heart of the kitchen, it offers many features: dining area, worktop, hob etc. Another important evolution remains to be mentioned. To truly merge with the living room, the island and the rest of the furniture adopt a pure aesthetic and not imposing.


What's new around the modern kitchen with central island? It turns out that to be aware of the news in this area, the kitchen must be completely centered on the island. Obviously, this only applies to cases where the configuration allows us. But let's go back to the main subject. Big enough, the island can combine the sink, the hob with its extractor hood, and a long table. In practice, all this set replaces the need for an adjoining dining room.


In the modern kitchen with island, contemporary aesthetics, functionality and user-friendliness blend together, to the point that you almost forget that the bone is in a kitchen. The luxury sensation is intensified even more if the island is equipped with a matching bench with additional storage space. Thus united, the two elements constitute a magnificent space of relaxation. Such a configuration allows the household to meet in the same place and share moments of conviviality.

Functional island with several storage spaces


The islet is the heart of a kitchen. It hosts a sink, oven, hob, storage and, of course, the hood. And all this at your fingertips. Indeed, we could install everything there, as long as we size it correctly. In the case of a limited space, it is well recommended to provide some built-in closets in the walls.


A modern kitchen with island and bar, this is where conviviality is in the spotlight. The ingenious design of this type of island allows to combine both gastronomy and aperitif with friends. The bar is a piece of furniture in contemporary open kitchens. But, depending on its design, it can cut the view between the worktop and the rest of the room. That's why sticking it to the island is an excellent way to avoid the visual barrier. In order to enjoy a coherent whole, it is better to match the two elements. To do this, it is advisable to favor the same essence of wood or marry two or more colors.


In the modern kitchen with island, the furniture plays on the heights. Thus, it only differentiates the spaces. Today, kitchen manufacturers offer us models that can accommodate standard equipment but also, storage, libraries, benches or even televisions.


Who said that a big kitchen had to be satisfied with a big island? It is certainly not an obligation. With a compact island, we could always structure the space and develop a functional kitchen without losing too much surface. The fact remains that the island is a more interesting option than a wall or a partition to separate the kitchen from the living room.

Central kitchen island with an integrated glass table


The modern kitchen with island is dressed in several styles. Marked by the sign of conviviality, it suggests a warm atmosphere inviting us to get together with family or friends. The multitude of storage spaces concealing the appliances and some imposing utensils gives it a very design look.


The modern kitchen with central island looks like a real living room. We meet there to cook, do homework, have breakfast or meet friends. Multifunctional and spacious, this modern piece adopts all style, inspiration and ambience to harmonize with the rest of the interior decoration.

Noble walleye accents set off with the exclusive black island


With a central work surface that allows for a variety of lifestyle and personal needs, the modern island kitchen combines aesthetics with practice. More and more often, the island settles in a single large open room. This brings together in one place all the living rooms while making the feeling of conviviality more intense.


Taking into account the space available, we can arrange around the island the elements of our choice: low storage, columns or shelves, custom appliances etc. All this to have a kitchen 100% personalized.


The modern kitchen with island overlooking the living room must be aesthetic. To this end, the island will play a leading role in the layout. Then, the element can also integrate a space of preparation, storage and meals. All this in the name of the feature. Of course, if desired, the island is ready to welcome a sink or hobs. It is only necessary to pay attention to the constraints of the evacuation of water and the electrical arrival.


The modern kitchen with island brings together the main assets - the conviviality and the practicality - of the American kitchen and the dining room. It generates real moments of sharing. Thanks to its configuration, it decompartmentalizes space while allowing everyone to find his corner.