Sunday, February 16, 2014

Light or Dark Countertops?


One question I am often asked is, should my countertops be light or dark? Today we will dive into this subject and hopefully answer your question. Kitchen countertops are normally one of the largest surfaces in the kitchen along with the cabinetry and flooring. It's important to decide what role you want the countertops to play. They can speak loudly or softly. They can lead the design impression of the kitchen or follow and support the others elements.

 

As with every project, it is important to look at the kitchen as the entire finished space from the start, to have a vision of how the major elements will relate and connect with one another an decide for what reasons you want them to connect. The countertops can speak to the kitchen space whether light or dark, soft or bold color, textured, polished or honed. What do you want your countertops to say about your kitchen? And why? When imagining your countertop and the finished kitchen space, remember the accessories that will be sitting on top of the countertop. Will those useful items and accessories tell a story with their color or will they simply be supporting characters?

 

There is certainly no wrong or right approach per se. What is important is that you visualize the "big picture" of the kitchen design, the role you wish your countertop to play, and the answer will reveal itself to you. Countertops with a strong color or pattern can be the "art" and centerpiece of your kitchen. It can be a reflection of your personal style. A neutral countertop enables color, whether in your wall color, countertop accessories, island color or other artwork in the room, to stand out and be an important design element. Contrast is always a winner. Providing a breaking point between the other colors of your cabinetry and allowing the beauty of a backsplash or cabinet to truly shine. A monochromatic countertop appears understated and helps provide a unified look to the other larger elements in the room.

 

Still uncertain? Take a trip over to www.houzz.com and look at some pictures. You will begin to see a pattern emerge in the pictures that you like. If you have any questions you would like addressed, don't hesitate to contact me at jessica@webbercoleman.com

Sunday, February 2, 2014

Color Trends of 2014


By now we probably have all heard about the 2014 Pantone Color of the Year, Radiant Orchid. While this may be the star of 2014, there are many other supporting actors that deserve some recognition.

 

As you have probably heard for the past couple of years, gray is the new black. With undertones of beige, green, blue or white, light and fresh, we are seeing gray in things from cabinetry, flooring, wall colors, furniture and clothing. It’s perfect for the homeowner who wants to dabble with color a little outside of their comfort zone. It’s so popular that some reports show that up to 30 percent of kitchens and bathrooms are currently using some shade of gray.

 

While gray is certainly hot, we are also seeing a trend of more white based colors like pastels. Pale blues like Benjamin Moore’s 2014 Color of the Year, Breath of Fresh Air, soft whites like Benjamin Moore’s White Dove, pale greens, yellows and even pinks contrast nicely with darker furniture and floors while still keeping a space nice and light.

 

Even with all of the pale colors being used, homeowners and designers still love using bold color splashes to make a statement. Found in backsplashes, small countertop appliance, art, lamps, pillows and accessories, these punches of color add a depth and richness to an otherwise neutral space.

 

In the end, it’s all about mixing the colors, textures and cultural influences that speak to you. Don’t be afraid to experiment with something new and make your space truly reflect who you are!

 

If you have any questions you would like addressed, don't hesitate to contact me at jessica@webbercoleman.com