2017 Pantone Color of the Year

The interiors and fashion worlds wait expectantly every year for Pantone’s color announcement. Pantone announced their 2017 Color of the Year as Greenery. Touted as a refreshing and revitalizing shade, Greenery is symbolic of new beginnings. It is a fresh and zesty yellow-green shade that evokes the first days of spring when nature’s greens revive, restore and renew. The fortifying attributes of Greenery signals consumers to take a deep breath, oxygenate and reinvigorate.  A life-affirming shade, Greenery is also emblematic of the pursuit of personal passions and vitality.

“Greenery bursts forth in 2017 to provide us with the hope we collectively yearn for amid a complex social and political landscape. Satisfying our growing desire to rejuvenate, revitalize and unite, Greenery symbolizes the reconnection we seek with nature, one another and a larger purpose.” Says Leatrice Eiseman, Executive Director of the Pantone Color Institute

I’ve always wondered who gets the interesting job of choosing names for paint colors and who actually has the authority to choose the Color of the Year for the world. The entire world of fashion, automobiles and interiors takes their cue from this company. They don’t take their job lightly. The color of the year is a symbolic color selection; a color snapshot of what we see taking place in our global culture that serves as an expression of a mood and an attitude. Thousands of hours of research and filtering are done to determine what the color of the year will be. Pantone has been the world's color authority for nearly 50 years, providing design professionals with products and services for the colorful exploration and expression of creativity. They are the provider of professional color standards for the design industries. Always a source for color inspiration, Pantone also offers paint and designer-inspired products and services for consumers.

What do you think of this color selection? Do you already have some of this shade in your home or closet? If not, will you try to incorporate it somehow? I’d love to hear your thoughts. Send me an email at jessica@webbercoleman.com.

Finding Extra Storage in Stud Spaces

Have you ever looked at the space between wall studs and thought “There’s got to be a way to use that space!” More and more projects these days are utilizing the space between studs for storage. See the picture below for a recent project we completed. This tall linen cabinet was only about 8” deep, but recessed into the wall. It is perfect storage for all of those lotions and potions people keep in the bathroom.

Empty stud space is not just for short medicine cabinets. Utilize an empty wall and the tall space for more storage. You may not be able to fit towels in this cabinet, but it is a great place to keep medicines, shampoo bottles and other small items.

Take a look around your space, do you have some free space on a wall that you can utilize better? I love this free, found space for more storage-and who couldn’t use more storage space?! Do you have a good idea for found storage space? I’d love to hear. Email me at Jessica@webbercoleman.com

Standard Cabinet Heights & Depths

One question I am frequently asked is what the standard heights and depths of cabinets these days are. Let’s explore that today. *Note: Some of these dimensions are our standards after some trial and error and repeated client requests*

Kitchen

Base Cabinets: 35 ¼” height x 24” deep

Upper Cabinets: 12” deep

Inset Construction Upper Cabinets: 13” deep (with the door inset into the frame of the cabinet, you decrease the interior shelf size by ¾”. Because dinner plates are made larger and larger today, it’s important to have a 12” interior shelf)

Tall Oven or Refrigerator Cabinets: 26” deep-this allows a 24”deep base cabinet beside it to have a 1-1 ½” countertop overhang and the countertop to not stick out past the face of the oven or refrigerator cabinet

Bathroom

Base Cabinets: 35 ¼” height x 21” deep

Bookcases

12” deep

Because we build custom cabinets, we have the flexibility and ability to make cabinets whatever height, width or depth we need or want to. We build everything down to the 1/16^th of an inch allowing us to forgo fillers and maximize storage space. If you are getting custom cabinets for your space, carefully consider what will be going in each cabinet and have them built the depth you need accordingly. This will allow the best use of the cabinets.

Do you have a specific question regarding cabinet heights or depths? Email me at Jessica@webbercoleman.com

Cork Floors 101: Part 3

The last couple of columns we have explored where cork comes from and some of the attributes and benefits of it. Today we will explore how it specifically translates to flooring and what you can expect.

Most cork flooring comes in tiles or planks. The most common is an engineered laminate-style application which is installed using a glue down or floating installation process. As with any floor, make sure proper attention is given to the subfloor before installing it to get the best long term results. Many cork fans love its natural variations in tone and texture and like with most natural products, it has a richness and depth that manufacturers cannot replicate. Cork can be dyed or stained in a myriad of colors to fit any design aesthetic.

Cork is a natural product and with any natural product there is some maintenance. Sweep or vacuum it on a weekly basis to keep dirt and crumbs from permanently marring the surface. Some cork flooring comes prefinished and some manufacturers recommend waxing or applying clear polyurethane. Just like hardwoods or carpet, sunlight can fade it over time.

Ok, ok-I’ve convinced you to use cork for your flooring. But how much does it cost? A good budget number is about $12 per square foot which includes installation. Be careful skimping on the quality of the material. Lower density cork flooring won’t hold up very long in the long run. 

Like when selecting any flooring material, consider the other spaces and materials around it before deciding on color or style so that it blends in with the rest of your aesthetic. We’ve installed cork flooring several times and every customer has loved it! If you decide to use it, I’d love to see pictures of your finished space. Email them to me at Jessica@webbercoleman.com

Cork Floors 101: Part 2

Last time we discussed where cork comes from and how it is harvested. This week we will dive into cork flooring, specifically, and discover the benefits and traits that make it a great flooring choice. Some of the unique properties of cork are elasticity, natural, insulating, water & wear resistant and anti-allergic. Let’s dig deep into each of these properties.

Elastic: The ingenious cell structure of cork makes it especially elastic and resistant to damage. Each cubic centimeter is composed of 40 million highly flexible cells, making it very elastic and compressionable. It always returns to its original shape after being subjected to any pressure, absorbing shocks and decreasing the pressure on your legs, joints and back. Cork can easily bounce back from small nicks, but major dings, like sliding a heavy chair or table across it, are more difficult to fix. Furniture can eventually leave permanent dents unless you place it on protective coasters. The shock absorbancy of cork it really great when used in long standing locations, such as the kitchen or gym. It also lessens the risk of shattering glasses or dishes when dropped on the floor.

Natural: 100% natural raw material, 100% reusable and 100% recyclable.

Insulation: One of the world’s oldest insulators, the cellular structure of cork allows it to absorb heat and retain it for a long time. The millions of cells in each cubic centimeter of cork act as a decibel absorber making it a great insulating material for offices, restaurants and kids rooms.

Water & Wear Resistance: The honeycomb structure of cork makes it affected very little by impact or friction with other hard surfaces. The waxy substance suberin, found in cork, makes it naturally repel water. This makes it perfect for kitchens, bathrooms and outdoor areas. Standing water can permeate the joints of the flooring and cause damage. Check with the manufacturer before installing in a specific area.

Anti-Allergic: Cork does not absorb dust and contains suberin, a natural substance that fends off mold, mildew, rot and pests.

So are you convinced yet that you should use cork in your home? Next time we will explore the variations of flooring cork is made in and what might be best for your application. Any questions, contact me at Jessica@webbercoleman.com

Cork Floors 101

A newbie to the flooring scene is cork. (ok, maybe not a newbie, but a product that many people are not aware of or have used.) The word “cork” may conjure up images of wine bottles or popping champagne bottles. Natural cork comes from the bark of the cork oak tree, found mainly in southern Europe and northern Africa. Portugal is the center of the cork industry and accounts for more than half the world’s production. The cork oak tree is the national tree of Portugal and has been legally protected since the Middle Ages. Scraps of bark left over from punched out wine bottle stoppers are ground up, pressed and baked into sheets that are ready to convert into floor planks and tiles.

                                                Photo from the Portuguese Cork Association

Although you may just be hearing about cork floors, they have been around for more than a century. When it was first introduced, it appeared mostly in commercial spaces, though residential use increased after Frank Lloyd Wright chose it for many of the homes he designed. It’s popularity hit a peak in the 1960’s and 70’s but waned until the 2000’s and now it’s hotter than ever.

Looking for a green product for your home? Cork is a high contender. The cork oak trees gradually regenerate their bark after it’s harvested and the harvesting process is strictly regulated in order to keep damage to the trees and cork minimal. Trees live between 1-2 centuries making it a long term renewable resource.

Have you used cork floors in your home? Does it pique your interest? Stay tuned for the next column on the benefits of using it on your floor. Have questions? Email me at Jessica@webbercoleman.com

How to Get Work Done When Contractors Are Busy: Part 3

Over the last couple of weeks, we started with understanding that we are not the contractors only client and learning how to have patience and communicate effectively with the contractor. Here are the next tips.

Third, get your details together and your ducks in a row. Don’t call your electrician and hem and haw about what you think you want to have done. Don’t have them over to your house if you aren’t really serious about doing any work. It’s ok if you want to get their professional opinion or need their advice. Thoughtfully consider what you want to have done, do some online research, have a clear picture of the materials you want to use, the things you are willing to compromise on and what is a non-negotiable. The longer you draw out the process, the more wishy washy you are on decisions, the more frustrated you make the contractor and the more difficult you make it for them to get you information back in a timely fashion. I am not saying to settle for something you don’t want or accept something subpar just to move the project along.

Fourth, consider the weather. Many times contractors have projects outside and sometimes many rainy days may push their schedule behind or they may be working furiously to complete a project ahead of incoming bad weather. Many times they can’t control their schedule because they can’t control how the weather may affect the timeline of the project. Know that bad weather could push your project out on their schedule.

And lastly, if a contractor is not busy or doesn’t have a backlog, let that be a red flag to you. There may be a reason why that person is not busy when so many good contractors are very busy. The only exception this this line of reasoning would be if a contractor had a project suddenly postponed or delayed and had a block of time open up that they could work your project in to.

I hope these tips are helpful to you and you have great success getting your project started and completed. Do you have any other helpful tips? I’d love to hear. Email me at Jessica@webbercoleman.com

How to Get Work Done When Contractors are Busy: Part 2

Last time we started the discussion on how to effectively get work done when contractors are so busy. We first discussed recognizing that you are not the contractor’s only client.

Second, patience is the name of the game. Don’t yell, don’t leave 6 voicemails in one day, don’t call in special favors because you may be personal friends. I’m not saying to excuse a lack a communication or promptness, but give them at least 24 to 48 hours to respond you. They may be out on appointments all day or in an area with no cell reception. Cut them a little slack in getting back to you. But if you haven’t heard from someone in a week, maybe you need to reconsider working with them. Don’t expect them to make an appointment with you after hours or on the weekend. The contractor is probably working a 50-60 hour week as it is, please be mindful of their boundaries. You wouldn’t want to work after hours or on the weekend, would you? Are you just asking for a quote or are you giving the go ahead to begin your project? Know that their in process projects require more urgent attention than your project that may not be starting for several months.

Do you have any tips for connecting with a contractor? Or getting a project completed in a timely fashion? I’d love to hear. Email me at Jessica@webbercoleman.com Next time we will continue with our tips for getting work done.

How to Get Work Done When Contractors Are Busy: Part 1

All you have to do is drive down a couple of streets in Athens to see house after house having some sort of work being done to them. I’m in the industry and I’m still astounded at how many new construction and remodeling projects are going on. It’s no secret that good contractors and tradespeople are busy these days. A recent Harvard study shows that the size of the remodeling industry in 2015 has reached pre-recession peak levels from 2007.

Have you tried calling a contractor to get a project done and they either won’t return your phone call, or can’t get to your project for 8 months, or take a couple days returning your call or email? How in the world can you get something done without losing your mind-or your cool? Maybe you just want a single room painted, or you need a new front door, or a new dining room light fixture installed, a small exterior repair done or maybe you have a whole house remodel project you want to have done. Today we will explore a couple of tips and tricks for getting a project done, no matter how large or small.

First, recognize you are not their only client. I know, this is hard. I mean, you are paying them after all! There are many people, just like you, who have been in the contractors queue a long time before you. If you want to work with quality people, you may have to wait a little while.

We will explore several more tips in the coming weeks. But in the meantime, are you in the middle of a project or just beginning to think about doing a project? Do you have any advice or questions? Email me at Jessica@webbercoleman.com

Holiday Projects

            School is about to start, fall is on its way, football season is around the corner and, yes, it is time to start thinking about Thanksgiving and Christmas. Only sixteen weeks left till Christmas. Yes, I really did just say that. It may seem like a long time away, but we all know that it will be here before we know it and probably before we are ready.

I am not one to rush thru the days in anticipation of the next one, but I am for planning and organizing so I can enjoy every day. Ready or not, the holidays are upon us. As this realization hits, we start to make a mental or written list of all the things we need and want to do before the holidays are actually here. Is a kitchen or bathroom remodel on your to do list before the company comes? Maybe you just found out that your home will be the location of this year’s Thanksgiving or Christmas celebration or your broken oven just won’t cut it for baking those cookies.  Do you want a new kitchen or bathroom before Thanksgiving? Maybe you can’t redo the entire room but want to make some small changes. Or maybe you just want to finally get the dining room repainted or new carpet in your bedroom. Now is the time to start thinking about it and making plans. If you begin now, you will have plenty of time to get your project done before Thanksgiving hits and then you can enjoy your new space all throughout the Christmas season. It’s no secret that contractors are busy these days. (And if they aren’t, is there a reason for that…?) Even more of a reason to start now in order to get something done before the holidays. First question to ask your contractor is “Can you complete this before Thanksgiving/Christmas?” If they can’t, no sense stressing about it. Just get on their calendar for January or February.

Before you start to panic and hyperventilate, take a deep breath and let’s take a realistic look at the calendar. Depending on the amount and magnitude of work that you want to do in your kitchen or bathroom, you can expect a remodel to take anywhere from three to six weeks from demo to final cleanup. If you start your planning and decision making now, you can realistically have a new kitchen or bathroom by Thanksgiving. Consult with the professionals who will be completing this work for you and they will be able to give you a better idea of the time needed to complete your project. Whatever you do, DO NOT plan to wrap up your remodeling project the day before company is expected to arrive. Something might be backordered or take longer than expected and then you will really be up a creek without a paddle or eating your Christmas dinner at Waffle House. The holidays are hectic enough without adding that little bit of stress.

As you consider who will be doing the work for you, make sure they have a good reputation, are doing what they say and completing projects in a timely manner. Check their references and don’t let the bottom line make the decision for you. Sometimes there is a reason one person is less expensive than another. The holidays are not a time to risk having issues with a contractor. Make sure you clearly communicate your deadline to the contractors you work with to ensure an on-time project. That way there will be no surprises and everyone is on the same page.

We all know the holidays can be a stressful time. There are parties to attend or host, food to be prepared, gifts to be wrapped and memories to be made with your family and friends. Endeavor to enjoy this season and all of its wonderful food, people and events by planning ahead. Take time to slow down and remember that this is the most wonderful time of the year.

Email me at jessica@webbercoleman.com and let me know if you have any questions regarding holiday projects.

Sherwin Williams 2017 Color Trends

Sherwin Williams just released their projected color trends for 2017. They selected 4 different groups of colors to represent different color trends. Their experts say that the state of color

has never been more restless. New spirituality, cultural flux, feisty self-expression and soulful nostalgia are combining to paint an emerging portrait of our shared future. Let's explore the 4 palettes.

Noir: It’s among our most precious commodities: night. We’re craving a refuge from urban streetlights and glowing screens, space to turn our gaze inward and recharge the spirit. Mindful melancholy is fueling a new romanticism marked by medieval patterns, revived customs and bittersweet beauty. The Dutch masters knew the secret: dark hues set a dramatic stage for sensuous luster. This palette is rich with vine- ripe fruits, Nordic blues, moody neutrals and golden yellows.

Holistic: Sustainable design and radical transparency are the new standards. As our daily transactions move further into the cloud, acquiring experiences is becoming preferable to buying more things. “Doing good” is the new looking good, and it’s taking the form of “voluntourism,” healing retreats and eco-travel. The roads of this journey are lined with arctic neutrals, blush rose and wild browns.

Intrepid: The virtual and the real are blurring in the form of seamless commerce and “office anywhere” collaboration. Identity has never been more fluid. “You do you” is the mantra of a generation primed for self-expression, cheered on by their own #squad and tossing aside old categories. There’s a feisty energy to our present moment, arriving in fiery tones and vibrant, kimono colors.

Unbounded: Global immigration is redefining borderlands, national identity and our sense of coexistence. Brands are becoming more purpose-driven, communities more connected. Overconsumption is, well, over. We’re more likely to invest in the best we can afford — crafted and customized — and then keep it forever. Global consciousness is a mural painted in earthy mustards, ocean blues, corals and mud.

Look for these colors not only in the homes and interiors sector but also in clothing, cosmetics and food. How will you incorporate some of these colors? Learn more at www.swcolormix.com. My favorite palette is the Noir palette. What is your favorite palette for next year? Email me at jessica@webbercoleman.com

Where To Buy Bar Stools

One question I am asked on a regular basis is "Where can I buy bar stools?" Below is a list of places where I have found great stools. Note: when looking for stools, make sure you are ordering the correct height. If your island top is 36" tall, you will need counter stools. If your bar top is 42" tall, you will need bar stools. Make sure you order the right ones! Also, allow about 2' of space for each stool. So if your island is 6' long, I would order 3 stools. If your island is 7' long, I would still order 3 stools.  You might be able to squeeze one more stool in a 7' island, depending on the size of the stool, but better to have to order one more than have too many.

-Pottery Barn

-West Elm

-Restoration Hardware

-World Market

-Pier 1

-TJ Maxx

-Crate & Barrel

-Ballard Designs

These are the most common places I see people purchasing bar stools from. Do you have another great source? I'd love to hear about it! Email me at jessica@webbercoleman.com

Tips for a successful consultation

Most designers average 10-20 client meetings in any given week. Some meetings go great and some could go better. Here's a couple tips to ensure a successful consultation.

1.    Have all of your notes, pictures, ideas pulled together so they are easy to look thru together when the designer visits your house.

2.    Have the area you are looking at somewhat cleared off so it's easy to take measurements and see the space. The more they can see the more accurate estimate and advice they are able to give you.

3.    To be respectful of your time and the designers time, consider making sure any children at home are occupied so you can speak without interruption and that any pets are put up as some people are allergic to dogs and cats.

4.    Set an appointment reminder in your phone so you can ensure you are home in time for your meeting. If you are running behind, call the designer to let them know.  

These simple tips will make your meeting with your designer go smoother and allow more details to be completed-a great set up for a successful project.

Do you have any tips for a successful meeting? I'd love to hear them. Email me at jessica@webbercoleman.com

Lessons Learned

I've learned many lessons over my fourteen years in the kitchen and bath industry. I'd like to share some of the lessons I have learned with you so hopefully you won't make the same mistakes.

Countertop seams-it's important when you are having new granite, marble to quartz tops installed that you speak with the top fabricator when they come to template your tops about where the seams will be. One reason is so you will be aware and prepared for where a seam will be. Another reason is that if you want to discuss other options about where a seam will be, at the time of templating is the time to make that change.

LED light dimmers-did you know there is a specific, special dimmer you need to work with LED lights? Not every dimmer on the market can work with an LED light. Some cause a buzzing sound or the light to flicker. Speak specifically with your electrician about what kinds of lights and compatible dimmers you will have.

Faucets at a window-some of the new, tall, pull down faucets with a side handle allow the on/off handle to go back pretty far. This could be problematic if you have a window sill that will impede the handle from going far enough back to work properly. Some manufacturers have remedied this problem by only allowing the handle to go back a certain distance. This is important to look at when selecting a faucet.

These are not all the lessons I have learned but ones that I see people struggle with the most. Have you learned any lessons in your projects? I'd love to hear! Email me at jessica@webbercoleman.com 

10 Questions to Ask Your Cabinet Company

Before you finalize your cabinet order, below are 10 questions I suggest you ask to avoid any surprises.

1.    Are you insured?

2.    Do you have any professional affiliations or certifications?

3.    May I have a list of references from past completed projects?

4.    Ask yourself if you are comfortable with this person and company being in your home?

5.    Do you communicate well with the designer and do they "get" your vision?

6.    Do they have a concrete grasp of your project and have they shown they can listen to you and your ideas?

7.    Is the price you've been given firm or subject to escalation?

8.    What is your warranty?

9.    How long have you been in business?

10.  How often do you stick to your agreed upon installation schedule?

I hope these questions are helpful for you and help you avoid any unfortunate experiences.

Have questions or another question to add to this list? 

Email me at jessica@webbercoleman.com

Under Cabinet Lights

Whether you are getting ready to do a complete kitchen remodel, build a new house or add a tile backsplash, now is the time to think about under cabinet lights. Mounted on the bottom of wall cabinets, these small fixtures add an amazing amount of task lighting and ambiance at night. Low profile LED tape light is all we use these days. It's simple to install, provides nice, even light and is long lasting.

The best way to install them is to have one switch to control all of the under cabinet lights. That requires a wire under every wall cabinet that is controlled by one switch. When you are building a new home, remodeling your kitchen or before you add a tile backsplash, that is the time to wire for it. Once that tile is on the wall, you don’t want to tear into that to get the wires in the right location. But a good electrician can work around a tile backsplash. I wasn't smart enough to put under cabinet lights in my kitchen before putting up my tile backsplash. But recently Blue Moon Electric worked their magic and now I have under cabinet lights. I LOVE them! And can't imagine why it took me so long to get them put in.

Yes, they may be nice but how much do they cost? Depending on how much footage you need and if you decide to do it yourself or hire someone to install them for you, you could be looking at a couple hundred dollars or a couple thousand dollars. Didn’t budget for this? Take my word for it and spend the extra money to include this. Maybe that means saving up for a couple more months before you begin your project or sacrificing in another area. Just do it. You will not be sorry.

Have more questions? Email me at jessica@webbercoleman.com

Seal or No Seal?

One of the most frequent questions I am asked is “I really like granite, but don’t I have to seal it a lot?” My answer is an emphatic “No!” Let’s explore some of the reasons to seal your granite and what it takes to complete the simple process and keep your granite investment looking great for many years to come.

Granite is one of the hardest stones and not subject to etching by household cleaners or scratches by knives or pots and pans being drug across the surface. According to the Marble Institute of America, both prior to and after the availability of sealer for granite, no cases of food poisoning, radon or food preparation issues associated with sealed or unsealed granite have been reported. Its natural resistance to bacteria makes it a perfect choice for kitchen countertops. If you clean your tops after each meal, you should not have any issues. A mild soap and water is all that is really needed. Keep in mind that different procedures and cautions are needed when you have marble, travertine, limestone or other porous materials for your countertops.

When we purchase granite from Bella Maria, they install the granite pre-sealed. Yay! This means less work for the homeowner right off the bat. That sealer is good for two to three years. They recommend sealing your tops every two to three years after that. Choose a good quality sealer, which you can purchase from Bella Maria. It is a liquid that can be poured or wiped onto your granite. Let it sit and soak in for a few minutes and easily wipe up any excess. It will dry quickly and be ready for use. If you have any questions on application, always consult the manufacturer of your sealer or the fabricator of your countertops. A benefit of sealing your granite is further reduction of moisture migration into an already moisture resistant material. DuPont also makes a cleaner, Revitalizer, that is a cleaner and sealer in one so you are resealing your granite at the same time you are cleaning it. This can be purchased at Traditions in Tile.

See, it’s easy and not something to be frightened by. Go ahead. Invest in a countertop that can outlast you and enjoy the beauty that granite adds to your kitchen. Have questions? Email me at jessica@webbercoleman.com

Spring Clean

With spring upon us, this is a great time to clean the cabinets in your home. The cabinets in your home may have been manufactured from quality hardwoods.  Like any other wood product or piece of fine furniture in your home, proper care, use, and maintenance of your cabinets is essential to maintain their beauty and function. The following is a list of maintenance steps and things to avoid. This list is not intended to be a complete list, but rather it is to be used as a guideline for general care.   Always follow the directions for any product that you buy.  When in doubt, common sense should always prevail.

A soft cotton cloth dampened with warm water is usually sufficient to clean your cabinets. If more thorough cleaning is required, use one of the following cleaning solutions.

     -A fresh solution of dishwashing liquid mixed with warm water

     -A mild all purpose cleaner. Make sure it does not contain ammonia or silicone.

             

Use the mildest cleaning solutions that will successfully clean your cabinets. Stronger products may damage or discolor your cabinet finish and are not recommended. After cleaning, wipe all surfaces with a clean, damp cloth. Dry immediately, using another soft, clean cloth. Cabinet interiors may have a water resistant topcoat, however, water or other liquids allowed to sit on the surface for extended periods of time may cause staining or bubbling.  Be sure dishes, glasses, etc. are dry before storing in the cabinets.

Clean spills and splatters immediately. Prolonged exposure to spills, including food, water or other liquids or to oil and grease splatters, can cause permanent discoloration or damage to your cabinet’s finish. Give special attention around sinks and the tops of doors and drawers in the sink area. Waxing is not required or recommended. Over time, waxing and polishing compounds may build up on the surface of your cabinets and cause a hazy, streaky or yellowed appearance.

Spray ammonia-free glass cleaner on a clean soft cloth or paper towel. Do not spray cleaner directly on the glass. Avoid excess glass cleaner running into the cabinet joints. Avoid draping damp clothes or dishtowels over cabinet doors. This moisture can cause permanent damage to the cabinets finish. Keep cabinet surfaces dry. Place coffee makers so that the steam is directed away from the cabinet surfaces. Avoid placing small kitchen appliances where the heat is directed onto cabinet surfaces.        

Avoid using the following cleaning products on your cabinets:

     -Harsh chemicals

     -Abrasive cleaning products such as tub and sink cleaners or steel wool.

     -Products that include ammonia

     -Products that include bleach

     -Silicone-based cleaning, waxing or polishing products.

Happy Spring cleaning! Questions? Email me at jessica@webbercoleman.com

Built in Coffee System

Did you know a built in coffee system existed? Or maybe the better question is where are you going to put one in your house? If I drank coffee, I would be finding a spot pronto! Today we will explore these little magic machines and hopefully convince you that you NEED one in your home. I’m tempted to start drinking coffee just so I can justify getting one of these personal baristas!

A built in coffee system is about the size of a microwave and is built into a cabinet preferably at waist height. Several companies make one-Wolf, Jenn-Air, Miele. You can enjoy professional-quality brewed coffee, espresso, cappuccino and more, in the comfort of your home. The system lets you craft a cup precisely to your taste, from real coffee beans, with just the touch of a button. Installs anywhere in your home or office – no plumbing required. They come with a frothing system with an integrated milk container, hot water dispenser for hot tea or oatmeal and the ability to use whole beans or pre-ground beans. It’s great for entertaining and sure to be the star of the show come dessert time.

Where should you put one? The kitchen, bar area, master bath, guest suite, office. The possibilities are endless. I've had the chance to play with and experience the Wolf and Jenn-Air models and boy, are they fun. If you are a serious coffee drinker, it's definitely worth looking into. Questions? Email me at jessica@webbercoleman.com 

Lighting Shortcuts

Some of the most common questions that pop up when remodeling a kitchen or bathroom have to do with different facets of lighting. Today I thought I would share some tried and true standards and rules of thumb that hopefully will be helpful for you in your next project.

 

-Mount fixtures hanging over a table 30" above the table top.

 

-Place under cabinet lighting at the front of the cabinets-not against the wall- so the light is evenly distributed over the countertop.

 

-Hang pendants lights over an island 66"-72" off the floor

 

-Mount sconces either side of a bathroom mirror 60"-66" off the floor.

 

-Layer light-use a combination of ambient light( recessed cans), task light(under cabinet lights) and decorative light(pendants) to create a functional and inviting kitchen.

 

-Depending on the size, install one pendant for every 2-3' of counter space, most often using an odd number of pendant lights.

 

-Switch all of your under cabinet lights on one switch. It makes it easy to turn them on and adds a great ambiance at night.

 

-Consider a jamb switch on your pantry door. Then the light would come on automatically every time you opened your pantry door and you wouldn't be fumbling for a switch.

 

These are the most common lighting issues you may run across in a kitchen or bath remodel. Always have a trusted electrician, like Ed Smith and team of Blue Moon Electric. They can offer great insight and knowledge into what your space needs. Have an electrical question? Call Ed or email me at jessica@webbercoleman.com

Visiting Jenn-Air

Last fall I had the opportunity to visit the Whirlpool Corporation training center in downtown Chicago. I was there to participate in a designer forum with designers from all over the country and Canada to learn more about Jenn-Air products. Whirlpool is the parent company for Jenn-Air, Whirpool, Kitchenaid and Maytag. It was a packed 2 days and it felt like I was learning from a fire hydrant!

Day one we got a tour of the Whirpool Training center which is located in the historic Reid-Murdoch building in downtown Chicago. The training center is at the very top of the building and encompasses the historic clock tower. The space is beautiful with a wonderful rooftop patio overlooking downtown. That afternoon we learned about Jenn--Air professional gas cooktop's and down drafts, new ovens with larger touchscreen panels and intuitive culinary center. These new ovens will have an accompanying app that will be revolutionary! We also learned about the history of Jenn-Air and enjoyed a lovely dinner prepared by their resident chefs.

Day 2 started early learning about the Jenn-Air customer service team and protocols and their marketing strategies. Then we transitioned into learning about the steam oven and watched salmon being cooked in a steam oven which we then got to enjoy. Next we learned about Jenn-Air's built in refrigeration. In their new generation of refrigeration, they are transitioning to an obsidian interior. It looks sharp, but I'm on the fence about if I like it or not...Next we transitioned back to the classroom for a learning time with designer Ellen Cheever. Ellen is an accomplished designer who has a lot of practical and real world experience. She is a fantastic communicator. Next we learned about the Jenn-Air dishwashers and induction cooktops. Those were pretty impressive! Then we learned about the built in coffee system and got to make our own beverages. A delightful sit down lunch was prepared by the resident chefs. Finally, the designers shared different projects they were working on. It was great to see the different types of projects across the country and the imaginative solutions designers were creating for issues in a space.

It was a great but packed two days and my perceptions and preconceived notions of the Jenn-Air brand were definitely improved. I always enjoy learning about new products and technologies so I can better suggest products to my clients. If you have any questions about what I learned about, feel free to email me at jessica@webbercoleman.com

Best of Houzz 2016

 

This year we were honored to be awarded the 2016 awards from Houzz for best in Customer Service and best in Design. You may say "Who cares and what does it have to do with me?"

 

First, what is Houzz? Houzz is an online platform for new home building, home remodeling and design, providing people with everything they need to improve their homes from start to finish - online or from a mobile device. From decorating a room to building a custom home, Houzz connects millions of homeowners, home design enthusiasts and home improvement professionals across the country and around the world. With the largest residential design database in the world and a vibrant community powered by social tools, Houzz is the easiest way for people to find inspiration, get advice, buy products and hire the professionals they need to help turn their ideas into reality. Headquartered in Palo Alto, CA, Houzz also has international offices in London, Berlin, Sydney, Moscow and Tokyo.

 

 

Second, what are the awards? The Best Of Houzz awards are given in three categories: Design, Customer Satisfaction and Photography. Design award winners’ work was the most popular among the more than 35 million monthly users on Houzz, known as “Houzzers.” Customer Satisfaction honors are determined by a variety of factors, including the number and quality of client reviews a professional received in 2015. Winners will receive a “Best Of Houzz 2016” badge on their profiles, helping Houzz users around the world who discover and love a professional’s work to learn even more about that business’ popularity and satisfaction rating among their peers in the Houzz community.  Best of Houzz awards are only awarded to 3% of the professionals on Houzz.

 

 

If you haven't discovered Houzz yet, I highly recommend checking it out.  One of my favorite ways to use it is as a search engine for design. Say I’m looking for a picture of a white subway tile backsplash with grey grout. Type it in the search bar and thousands of pictures will pop up. It’s a great way to gain a visual of how you want something to turn out. It’s helpful to share pictures of what you expect the end product of your project to look like with your contractor. It helps eliminate any confusion and helps translate the vision that is in your head. Any questions? Email me at Jessica@webbercoleman.com

Pros of Working with a Female Designer

Last year in prep for a speech I was giving at the Kitchen and Bath Industry Show in Las Vegas, I conducted a survey among the contractors I work with. The first question I asked them was what were PROS of working with a woman designer. There are many more PROS than CONS. Here are some of the answers I got back.

-They have a better feel for what the woman homeowner wants

-The woman homeowner is more comfortable with a woman designer

-They bring a different perspective

-My survey says that women are more in tune with design trends. You ask a woman a

handbag style and she can probably rattle off a couple of designer names.

-My survey says that they have a more nurturing spirit

-They have more of a desire to meet the needs of the client

-They are better listeners and more intuitive

-They are great at multitasking

-My survey says that women are great organizers.

-They have a better eye for the small details.

-They are quicker at relationship building

-They have better relatability to people

-Clients respect a female designer’s opinion more than a male’s

-Design related decisions are often emotional decisions. A female designer has a softer

touch in persuading a client against making a mistake.

-They can discuss shoe storage and cosmetics with ease. What guy wants to talk about

keeping his curling iron plugged in inside a drawer? A female can say 'this is what I do.' (Ok, I have to admit, this was my dad's answer.)

The answers were enlightening and encouraging to me as a work with clients and contractors every day. It's good to hear from an outside party about what you can focus on. Do you agree with these answers? Do you have any to add? Email me at jessica@webbercoleman.com

Organizing 101

A new year is here! I don’t know about you, but January always makes me itch to organize, simplify, throw away and rearrange. It’s a fresh start. A chance to make this year even better than the last. To enjoy every moment with less stuff to distract you. Here’s a couple of things you’ll find me doing this weekend.

Papers-recycle any papers you don’t need long term; expired coupons, old invitations, out of date school calendars.

Purse-dump everything out and only put back what you need. Go through your wallet and file or throw away any receipts you no longer need. How many lip colors do you really need to carry around every day? Keep only your favorites!

Magazines-make it a rule to throw out the previous issue when the new issue comes in. Or like me, read it and throw it away or pass it on to someone who would enjoy it.

Pantry-take everything out, wipe down the shelves, throw away any expired food or food that doesn't fit in your 2016 diet and reorganize as you put things back in.

Shoes- Weed out any shoes that are uncomfortable or beyond repair. Polish any shoes that need it.

Laundry room-often the catch all for those odd items that may not have a place and especially after the craziness of the holidays. Remove everything from the room, wipe down the washer and dryer, clean out the lint trap and then evaluate everything that goes back into the room. Maybe you even need to consider painting the walls a fresh new color before putting things back in.

Clothes-after all of the holiday parties there are probably some items that need to go to the dry cleaners or need some mending. Give away anything you haven’t worn in the past year or no longer like. There are several challenges out there in regards to clothing. The Capsule Wardrobe, 30 day challenge and Project 333 to name a few. There are even apps that can help you create outfits out of things already in your closet.

When in doubt, ask yourself these questions.

1.Do I really need this?

2.Do I love it?

3.Do I already have something else that will work?

4.Do I use it regularly?

5.Where am I going to put it?

6.How hard would it be to replace this item someday if I needed to?

I’d love to hear what your favorite January organizing tasks are. Send me an email at jessica@webbercoleman.com.

Middle East Design Finds

Last summer I had the opportunity to travel to some Middle Eastern and European countries and experience some once in a lifetime experiences. Two experiences I would like to share with you and how it fit into my design life.

The first experience was in Cairo, Egypt at the Khan el-Khalili. The Khan el-Khalili is mainly occupied by Egyptian merchants selling souvenirs, antiques, jewelry and spices.

In addition to shops, there are several coffeehouses, restaurants, and street food vendors distributed throughout the market. The Khan is a beautiful assault on your senses-the smells of exotic spices and beautiful things to see at every turn. What caught my friends and my eye was these beautiful punched metal lights. Metal fashioned into hanging pendant lights that had tiny holes punch in a beautiful design over the entire exterior. Once illuminated, it radiates a beautiful glow. We haggled for a while with the shop owner and finally got the price down to something we were comfortable with. I can't wait to hang my new light in my house and remember my fabulous trip!

The second fun experience was in Istanbul, Turkey at the Grand Bazaar. The Grand Bazaar is massive market, covering acres of space. Jewelry, souvenirs, linens, spices, Turkish delight, rugs, antiques and knockoff bags galore. You could spend days in that place! I came to Istanbul hoping that I would return home with a rug. So, we walked into many rug shops. The culture of hospitality in Turkey is that the shop owner will offer you a hot apple tea or Turkish coffee and ask you to sit awhile while they pull down rug after rug from these tall stacks lining the walls. They will spread the rugs out on the floor for you too see the entire pattern and compare colors. Boy, are were there some beautiful rugs!  But unfortunately, I couldn't bring them all home. After viewing hundreds of rugs, I finally found "the one." It brings me such delight when I see it in my living room every day.

Travel is so fun! And bringing home something that you can practically use in your home every day is a great reminder of your exciting experiences. Have you purchased any fun items for your home during your travels? I'd love to hear! Email me at jessica@webbercoleman.com