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Accessories Granted. October 2011 Official eNewsletter of The Bath & Kitchen Showplace
TOP 10 KITCHEN & BATH TIPS Last month, our consultants at the Bath & Kitchen Showplace met up with HGTV celebrity Carter Oosterhouse at Moen Inspire 2011, where he shared with us his top kitchen and bath design tips. Here's the advice, straight from the expert! [http://www.hgtv.com/home-improvement/qa-with-carter-oosterhouse/index.html] 1. Plan Your Space Carefully. Like an architect drafting a blueprint, you need to know where everything in your space will go before the design fun starts. Keep the size of your space in mind and focus on the placement of your main furniture elements and appliances to ensure your kitchen or bath flows well. Remember practical considerations, such as the width and height of countertops and cabinetry. Lastly, the arrangement of your space should highlight your design focal points. 2. Create Focal Points, Not Eyesores. A focal point is a unique object that captures your attention as soon as you enter a room. It could be an architectural feature, a fireplace or even more subtle, such as a backsplash design or a beautiful accessory like a Native Trails Farmhouse Sink. The important thing to remember is to not place a focal point in your space because people will look at it — place it in your space because people will love it. [http://www.nativetrails.net/db/gallery/Search.php?SearchID=5&DatabaseID=2&ProductGroup=Kitchen&Search.x=45&Search.y=1]
3. Light Up Your Space. Lighting sets the stage for your space and dictates its atmosphere. Do you want a bright lighting or a softer glow? Does your space receive much natural light? Think beyond just recessed lighting in your ceiling. There are tons of creative options, ranging from lamps, sconces and track lighting to beautiful fixtures that are works of art. Don't forget to disperse light throughout the room. 4. Go Beyond Granite. Stones like granite and marble are incredibly popular choices for kitchen and baths. However, there is a broad array of (often more affordable but equally beautiful) options out there, depending on your style and budget. There's quartz, concrete, tile, wood and newer laminate products, which offer a simple, quality look for much less. You can even choose eco-friendly products, like recycled glass. It seems that everyone has granite counters — be different! 5. Go Low-Flow. Top performance is enhanced when you add water-efficient products to your home, including low-flow faucet aerators and toilets. Create a home with both style and water conservation in mind — and enjoy lower water bills!
6. 2 Sinks = 2 Mirrors. Both your bath's sinks need mirrors, for functional reasons and to establish symmetry. Mirrors also give life to a bath by reflecting light and making space appear bigger. [http://www.us.kohler.com/onlinecatalog/suites_collections_details.jsp?item=515802&prod_num=Portrait+Suite&category=77] 7. It's All In The Details. You may have your major pieces of furniture selected and know what general colors you like. However, it's the little things that make your space uniquely you that deserve careful attention. What fabrics and patterns will you use? Which accessories and art will you choose to display? How about hardware? It's the details that transform a space into a customized home. 8. Energize Your Home. Get beautiful design and efficiency when you purchase Energy Star appliances and water heaters. You'll use less energy for heating and cooling, resulting in lower utility and water bills — and you may even be eligible for a tax credit! [http://www.energystar.gov/]
9. Choose Durability. Products that combine beauty and durability will be worth your money and stand the test of time — it's the whole package! For example, KOHLER® Cast Iron products are timeless and elegant, and have a non-porous, stain-resistant, smooth enamel surface that won't chip or crack. They're also crafted from 93% recycled and reclaimed materials, making them an environmentally friendly choice, too. [http://www.us.kohler.com/onlinecatalog/bathing_landing_subcat.jsp?section=61&nsection=2&nsubsection=3&category=10&nitem=cat10] 10. Don't Be Neutral. You shouldn't be afraid to use color — it's the easiest way to change a room without spending a lot of money. If you're feeling bold, paint the entire room. If you're hesitant to ban the tan, try painting an accent wall or introducing color through specific furniture pieces or accessories. Your home should reflect your personality and the feelings you want to evoke. Do you know what emotional effects or ideas these popular colors are associated with? Blue | Relaxing and Slows Down Pulse Rate Black | Power Green | Soothes and Calms Orange and Red | Energy Purple | Loyalty White | Reverence, Purity and Simplicity
The Bath & Kitchen Showplace offers bath and kitchen plumbing fixtures, hardware and accessories in a wide range of styles. Visit our showroom and let one of our consultants advise you about putting these design tips to action in your home. At the Bath & Kitchen Showplace, we're putting the life in style. To find a location near you, visit bkshowplace.com.
 
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