Extend a Soffit (Bulkhead) for Kitchen Cabinets

You might have noticed after our hardwood installation that none of our after pictures showed shots of the kitchen. We purposefully avoided those angles because the kitchen isn’t finished yet. We had to tear out the base cabinets for the hardwood install since we were planning to change the footprint of the new kitchen. The good news is that we’re finally off and running on the kitchen... 

Installing Under Cabinet Lighting

I’m a big fan of under cabinet lighting in kitchens. It’s a great way to provide additional, direct light for a space that would otherwise be obscured by shadow. And done right, all the wires and bulbs are completely hidden. Installing under cabinet lighting is a great DIY project, especially when you have the right materials and a few tricks to hide the wires. It’s best done during... 

TOSCA 5-Minute Faucet Review

Our last giveaway featured the TOSCA Faucet. We promised you a review, and now we are back with the bottom line. TOSCA’s claim to fame is their 5-Minute Kitchen faucet (official site). Imagine a faucet that only takes a few tools and 5 minutes of your time to install. This faucet comes with stainless steel supply lines already installed and a patented base so that you can work above the sink.... 

Review: Price Pfister Faucet

Price Pfister has been making stylish, dependable faucets since 1910. They offer affordable products that stand up to everyday use and they provide a quality guarantee to back it up. Price Pfister was kind enough to send us their Hanover Kitchen Faucet. It’s available in several configurations and styles. My experience is with the stainless steel, two-hole configuration. Read on to learn more... 

Before & After: Kitchen Island Makeover by Sarah @ Thrifty Decor Chick

It’s with some sadness that I announce our last Before and After of 2009. But enough with the frowning- today’s inspiration comes from Sarah @ Thrifty Decor Chick. Her blog is dedicated to showing folks how to make their home more beautiful without spending a lot of money. Sarah took an ordinary kitchen island and created something spectacular, all at a great price. For winning, Sarah... 

Is it OK to Put Hardwood Floors in a Kitchen or Bathroom?

Reader Question: I am considering putting hardwood floors in my living room and dining room. The kitchen sits next to both rooms and I’m wondering if I should lay hardwoods in the kitchen as well? I’ve seen hardwoods in some high kitchens, but at least two of my friends have warned about water in the kitchen ruining the wood. Should I be worried? Is there a better type of hardwoods for kitchens?... 

Before and After: 70’s Kitchen Renovation by Renee and Sean

This weeks Before and After comes to you from Ann Arbor, Michigan. Renee and Sean took an outdated, 1970’s kitchen, and gave it a fabulous new look. As always, Renee and Sean will receive a $25 gift card to Home Depot, Lowes, or Amazon, and we’ll make a $35 donation to Habitat for Humanity in their name. Check out the Habitat Quick Fact for ways you can get involved too! 1977 Kitchen... 

Sealing Your Countertop

Properly sealing your countertop is important to maintain the beauty of your countertop and prevent unwanted substances (chemical, germs) from finding their way in. It’s an easy job that anyone can accomplish. What Countertop Materials Require Sealing Not all countertops need to be sealed. That’s because not all countertops are porous. And, some manufacturers add a permanent seal. These... 

Soft Close Drawers Video

Have you ever heard of soft close drawers? I had my first experience with soft close drawers this past week and, it seems odd to say, but they are pretty cool. Soft close drawers have quickly become a very popular addition to many kitchen and bathroom drawers and even cabinets. I recorded a quick demonstration so you can see how they function. How Soft Close Drawers Work Soft close drawers have a... 

Before and After: 1970s Kitchen Update by Carol

This week’s (belated) Before and After is brought to you by Carol.  Carol didn’t send a blog address for us to link back to her, but I think you’ll agree after seeing her submission that she ought to have one!  Carol’s kitchen remodel really brings the space out of the disco era… As with every week, Carol’s submission earns her an entry into our contest at...