The Viking Craftsman

2012 Appliance Trends

admin — Wed, 28 Mar 2012 03:48:57 +0000

When it comes to Home Design or Home Remodeling in Dallas contractors find there are a lot of reasons people purchase appliances – whether it is to update the look, get more efficient products or to replace a product that doesn’t work anymore. Overall, we are a society of convenience and when doing a custom home remodel project we want something that not only looks good but serves a purpose. In the Home Improvement arena in Dallas, here are a few appliances that are currently being selected more frequently.

Steam Ovens
Built-in steam ovens and steam oven ranges…these appliances have been added to several manufacturer line-ups this year. Cholesterol, diabetes and weight control are big issues, and prevention is the best way to combat these illnesses. Steam cooking technology preserves the nutrients and quality of the food while reducing the need for added oils and fats. Steam cooking is the healthy way to cook and is a big trend in the appliance industry.

Induction Cooktops
These cooktops can bring a large pot of tap water to a rolling boil in the blink of an eye! Induction technology reduces the length of cooking time, therefore, less energy is used. According to GE Appliances, induction cooktops work by using an electromagnetic file to heat the cookware. The cooking vessel must have iron content, or be magnetic, to allow the transfer of energy. Induction cooking only heats the area that comes into contact with cookware. The induction cooktop surface not covered by cookware remains cool to the touch. Another advantage of induction cooking is that it allows for very fast, even heating with precise control at all temperature ranges.

Speed Ovens
Giving the standard microwave a run for its money, the speed oven combines a microwave and conventional oven, using a combination of microwave and convection cooking to reduce cooking time.

Concealed Ice and Water Dispenser
This nifty new refrigerator feature is located inside the refrigerator department and not through the freezer door. The benefit of this unit is no more messy drips running down the front of either your wood-paneled or stainless steel refrigerator. As a design element, designers and architects can create something extremely interesting such as making the unit look completely concealed like an antique hutch, without compromising the client’s luxury feature in the appliance.

Smart Appliances
Chalk this one up under the “it can do what?” category. These appliances communicate potential issues with a technical service department. This technology helps connect the appliance to a service provider before the homeowner knows there is an issue. This reduces frustration, time to repair, and ensures a small issue doesn’t create a larger problem within the appliance. Also, what about appliances that know when to operate at off-peak times? LG is implementing a software system that will let homeowners control and manage refrigerators, washing machines, ovens and robotic vacuum cleaners via a smart network. For example, LG is introducing Smart Grid programs that will program washing machines to do the washing at the most cost effective times. The oven also taps in the smart grid to offer cost options that take into account the duration and electrical cost of the cooking. The refrigerators can also adjust their temperatures to take advantage of decreased energy rates.

Ventilation
Often forgotten, several range hood manufactures have come out with new, sleek designs that either capture attention or remain hidden behind cabinetry, stone or other canopy materials. Custom hoods made specifically to match a home décor are trending up.

About Us: The Viking Craftsman Inc, award-winning contractor, combines true craftsmanship with personalized service. Specialties include additions, kitchens, bathrooms, home theaters, and outdoor living spaces in Plano, Frisco, McKinney, Richardson, Allen and Dallas, Texas.

Kitchen Appliances……Are You Appliance Savvy?

admin — Tue, 13 Mar 2012 20:08:01 +0000

Why go through the process of giving your kitchen the facelift it needs and the upgrades you deserve by not taking advantage of the conveniences, sleek designs and energy efficiency of appliances on the market today? With out-of-date appliances come old cut-out sizes and electrical requirements; it’s not economically smart to remodel an entire kitchen with old appliances only to discover that in six months you’ll need to change them out.
Selecting new kitchen appliances may not be considered the sexiest of kitchen upgrades, but it could be your most important decision made. Plus, new appliances help accentuate those new cabinets and countertops in a remodel. “Integrating appliances like dishwashers and refrigerators, for instance, make the cabinets the focal point, whereas professional products not only provide a more commercial performance, but they also add a dramatic look.
When undertaking a home renovation, especially a kitchen remodel, remember to keep it exciting, no matter how daunting it may seem. Also, keep in mind: the kitchen is the No. 1 upgraded room in the home, and with good reason. It can single-handedly seal the deal on a home sale or at least increase the resale value of the home. In fact, a November 2011 National Kitchen & Bath Association report revealed that kitchen remodels are up nearly 36% from a year ago. Adding new appliances can really contribute to the “intelligence” of your kitchen space. Kitchen flow, décor, convenience and energy usage are all common factors to consider when choosing your next set of appliances.
Generally speaking, “the kitchens in our great state of Texas are larger in size than what is found in other parts of the country. With that said, this gives the consumer to either increase the size of the appliances – refrigerators/freezers – or have the opportunity to have more appliances that you might not typically think of incorporating into a standard kitchen. Of course, there are those kitchens where space and budgets are a driving decision-making concern. If space or budget is an issue, consumers are interested in a “flexible and multi-purpose appliance,” one that takes the place of two to allow the consumer – both budget – and space-wise – the opportunity to consider a specialty appliance that they previously have never owned.
No longer just a narrow galley-style sidebar to the main living area of past design, the kitchen has become the dominant hub of the common gathering area in our homes. Much larger and much more open to the rest of the house, today’s kitchen now includes issues of flow for entertaining and functionality for multiple culinary activities.
Taking notes on how to utilize the flow of the kitchen is one of the most important aspects when considering important aspects when considering a remodel. The kitchen impacts the flow of the home and how the home “lives.” The “golden triangle” was a design premise in which the sink, the range and the refrigerator were designed into the kitchen with a minimal amount of space separating them. The idea was to reduce the travel time between them, making it easier to accomplish any culinary task. Now the new guiding force in kitchen design is the “kitchens within the kitchens.” No longer are kitchen designers trying to keep the essential appliance in close proximity to each other, instead they are designing specialized culinary stations throughout the kitchen domain.
About Us: The Viking Craftsman Inc, award-winning contractor, combines true craftsmanship with personalized service. Specialties include additions, kitchens, bathrooms, home theaters, and outdoor living spaces in Plano, Frisco, McKinney, Richardson, Allen and Dallas, Texas.

Creating Ambience with Home Accents

admin — Tue, 28 Feb 2012 20:49:07 +0000

Pick your style generator of ambiance with confidence. These are the finishing touches of decorating such as accent furniture and accessories with personality. Cater to your personal desire for the elegance of ambiance style through luxurious and beautiful finishes, textures and color tones.

To create a feeling of casual home glamour, balance an easy flow of soft comfort with a throw and soothing elegant intensity with throw pillows.
Design an outstanding interior space with home accents as the core, main feature or element of creative decorating. Give your home an incredible spark of personal style with accent furnishings and artwork.
Find, display, and coordinate stylish decorating with home accents on tabletops, shelving and floor spaces—anywhere you want a touch of ambiance. Whether you decorate with candles, wall art or contemporary designer vases, put the accent on special for casual style in your home life.
Ambiance in home spaces is personal luxury. It is creating tranquil spaces for soul healing design. Get, give or perceive ambiance as a refreshing blitz of therapeutic style elements by design in accent tables, chairs and artwork.
The look of everyday elegance and a feeling touch of home is the backbone of ambiance decorating. The layer of ambiance is the soul of style in your home furnishing arrangements. The strong points are softening and lightening home spaces with loving inspiration.
Choose ambiance style as a theme for your home and intimate spaces. Create a coordinated style composition, a friendly inviting feeling and modern elegance design with furniture and accessories.
Decorate room settings for a polished affect or use subtle color tones as a stylish stimulant. Dress every interior space in the textures and patterns that you adore. Let your emotions and decorative ideas steer you to create ambiance at home as an affordable journey of elegance and personal style.

Outdoor Living – The Good Stuff Essentials

admin — Tue, 14 Feb 2012 17:41:48 +0000

A recent national survey from the American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA) found that outdoor living continues in popularity — perhaps with less frills. For 2012, there is continued interest in the essentials such as seated dining areas, grills, fire pits/fireplaces, lighting and installed seating. Also, 2012, will see continued popularity in classic grills, counter space and outdoor kitchens, with elaborate kitchen items such as refrigerators and sinks less popular. But when creating your complete outdoor utopia, here are some essential pieces:

FENCING: Whether you need privacy or a protective barrier for your children or pets, a fence is a great addition to your home. Many new hardwood species have come into the market. Topography, climate and soil are always taken into consideration in laying out a specific outdoor living area to enjoy.

DECKING: Decks can add significant value to your property and an exciting new space for entertainment and relaxation with friends and family. Most reputable fencing companies specialize in custom-built decks constructed with a variety of materials from Cedar to composite materials or specialized hardwoods. Gaining in popularity, two-tiered decks avoid obstructed viewing and designate areas of entertaining, cooking, relaxing, etc.

KITCHENS: Stainless steel is hot! When extending the kitchen outdoors, granite countertops, island bars, refrigerators and stainless steel sinks can be added to the mix. Added touches include pizza ovens and wine and beverage fridges.

WALKWAYS AND PATIO SLABS: Creating a space using a walkway/living area made from pavestone or patterned concrete, with the addition of an overhead for some enhancement and protection, and some greenery in landscaping can make an enjoyable outdoor area. For walkways and patio slabs, stamped and stained concrete is very durable and is easy to clean – a broom, a hose and a few minutes and the area is ready is for use. Cultured stone can be used in designs; it is beautiful, very cost effective and doesn’t weigh near as much as real stone.

WATERSCAPES: More and more homeowners are transforming their outdoor spaces into the ultimate oasis. To achieve this goal, the serene sounds of waterfalls, pools, grottos and ornate bridges are sure to soothe the soul. Outdoor plumbing can be added for outdoor baths/changing areas/spas and misters.

LIGHTING: Outdoor living space should reflect the indoor style of the home. Track and task lighting is very popular in pavilions and covered patios, with fiber optic and solar-powered lighting to illuminate uncovered areas. Since smaller yards generally have less depth, the use of creative lighting can offer more drama and create the feeling of an outdoor room.

GREEN BUILDING: Native, low-maintenance landscape materials, efficient irrigation, shade (to reduce interior cooling costs) solar heated pools, solar cell and low-voltage lighting, rain collectors – anything that draws less energy or creates less environmental impact – are gaining momentum. Rebate incentives, either government or otherwise that stimulate consumer spending, will further the demand.

Creating A Personalized Outdoor Living Area

admin — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 04:44:45 +0000

While the economy clings on life support, homeowners prefer to stay put, investing in their homes and outdoor living areas. Outdoor living areas have become a rational investment to increase real estate value, while making a positive impact on a family’s well-being.

Homeowners are gravitating to complete environments that can be experienced year round – swimming in the summer, entertainment space and game watching in the fall, cozy fire surrounds and spas for winter, etc. The advent of complete outdoor living space planning has changed the conventional use of the home.

More complete elaborate outdoor areas may include the total amenity package, with covered patios or pavilions, which include high-definition television with stereo surround sound, fiber optic or solar-powered lighting, fire pits/fireplaces, grills, air controlled ceiling fans, full kitchens with outdoor plumbing to complement full baths, hot tubs and home spas. Others may prefer to go the “au naturel” route, with serene waterscapes such as waterfalls, tide pools and grottos to more elaborate gardens and lanscapes. The complete, integrated package, then, lends itself to more entertaining.

Keep in mind, though – especially in this economy — budget is, and always will be, the balancing factor in the decision-making process, however, use caution not to sacrifice quality.

In the next blog we’ll discuss the essentials and types of products that should be used in an outdoor living space.

Top Kitchen Remodeling Trends

admin — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 22:21:47 +0000

Current economic conditions mean many homeowners are choosing to forgo buying a newer home and remodel the home they’re in. Kitchen and bath remodeling are two of the most popular updates for several reasons. First and foremost for many homeowners is the fact that updating kitchens and baths can add resale value to the home. Second, these two rooms see a great deal of family activity, and small inconveniences become chronic annoyances.

One hot remodeling trend is simplicity. Kitchens are being streamlined. Small appliances are tucked away behind closed doors to clear counter space and add an open feeling to the kitchen. Bathrooms feature increased natural light, and private spaces for toilets.

Budget-conscious homeowners are looking to economize on remodeling projects. Two popular kitchen remodeling trends are re-facing cabinets and modernizing hardware. These projects make the kitchen look new in a budget-friendly manner.

Updating appliances is one way to take advantage of modern technology to add convenience to everyday tasks. Large appliances are more energy-efficient than ever, with a wide range of features from which to choose. Refrigerators are available in traditional top-freezer styles, side-by-side, and French door models. There are even refrigerator “drawers” for under-counter food storage. Besides ice and water dispensers through the door, some refrigerators incorporate televisions and Internet access.

Stoves are available in dual-fuel models which allow the cook to choose gas or electric depending on what is being cooked. Some dishwashers are designed to store dishes as well as wash them.

Small appliances are also popular conveniences. Coffee centers can prepare traditional coffee, espresso, and cappuccino at a fraction of the cost of stopping at a local coffee shop. Water dispensers can offer instant hot or cold water at the push of a button.

Another popular kitchen and bath remodeling trend is the use of natural materials for countertops. Granite is one of the more expensive options, while other options include quartz, concrete, and wood. The emphasis is on ease of cleaning and maintenance, as well as durability.

Bathrooms are borrowing ideas from spas and incorporating a touch of luxury. Heated floors, large showers and soaking tubs are three popular bathroom remodeling trends. Other hot trends include toilet enclosures for privacy and customized storage solutions, as well as the ever-popular dual vanity. One inexpensive update that adds convenience is the medicine cabinet with interior power plugs for razor and electric toothbrush.

Another consideration in bathroom remodeling trends is safety. With the majority of home accidents occurring in the bathroom, as well as an aging population and care of elderly or disabled relatives, safety features are important. Walk-in tubs, shower seats, and grab bars which are decorative as well as functional are three popular safety features.

The one thing most experts agree on is the fact that for optimum value, choose neutral colors and styles for the big things, like walls, cabinets, appliances and fixtures. Use inexpensive accessories to add color and contemporary style. The most important kitchen and bath remodeling trend is to avoid expensive fads that will quickly outdate your room.

What Is Universal Design?

admin — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 14:50:11 +0000

Universal Design is a current trend where the space can be utilized by people of all sizes, ages and abilities, yet not mimic ADA/industrial-type items. According to specialists, no longer is the ADA (American Disabilities Act) moniker being used to instill a commercial and industrial feel in spaces. Some common universal designs for bathrooms may incorporate a “Universal Height” toilet that is taller than normal, but still low enough for children and smaller people to use comfortably.

It meets ADA specifications, yet is not as tall as an “ADA Height” toilet. Other items that can be installed are Zero-Edge showers (where a wheelchair or walker can be used easily, yet can be walked into comfortably as well (and still keep the bathroom floor dry). Grab bars that incorporate paper holders or shelves for soap, shampoo or reading material. Bidet seats can give a person his/her independence back if they have mobility issues, yet is just as useful for everyone in the household. The shower/bath controls are even being moved out from under the showerhead to make it easier and after to turn on the shower. Design and architectural professionals are utilizing this movement in the design of their spaces and homes because people are living longer and staying in their homes, rather than moving into assisted living quarters. This also helps with resale because the space does not seem as “industrial” as they once had to be, yet is functional for families of all sizes and abilities.

Cabinet Constructs and More

admin — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 14:43:22 +0000

The end result from any professional cabinet design is to have created fully functional, high-end looking furniture grade pieces that stand the test of time and family! Kitchen cabinets get used as much or more than any other permanent fixture in the home and older stock or builder-grade cabinets may not be made or finished very well, and the show signs of abuse more quickly than high quality custom cabinets.
As a general preference, cabinets should match the styling of the home and consumer’s furniture choices –making it livable and a reflection of the family’s personality.
However, traditional and functional are still the mainstays when choosing the right cabinets. The functionality of the modern kitchen, regardless of the style selected, will make the “wow” factor last much longer than the first impressions.
If you really want the “wow” factor in your kitchen, let’s talk cabinets.
WOOD TYPES
One of the first questions you have to ask yourself when considering replacing cabinets: what type of wood do I use? Maple is still a highly used wood, especially in the production cabinets because it is readily available, consistent and can be stained any color. Because of its clear, subtle wood grain and its versatility, maple remains a top choice. Maple has and always will be among the top selections by people with adequate expectations concerning the quantity of cabinets they are purchasing coupled with how much they are willing to spend. Cherry — with the darker stains and a few glazes – is popular with the customers with reasonable budgets. Ash and oak are still the choices of folks on a limited budget or those with unrealistic expectations concerning the costs of replacing a whole house full of cabinetry.
Sustainable woods – like bamboo or lyptus – are up and coming. A rustic wood-like hickory is popular in some markets. Poplar, which can be stained and finished to be practically identical with the darker cherry and maple, is gaining in popularity and may replace maple in the future. The natural characteristics of wood and using contrasting types of wood in color and grain can make a kitchen quite different without compromising function. Exotic hardwoods are a great way to get a unique look also. Using a naturally dark wood like Walnut and bleaching it white or grey is something that is also done.
Cabinets are definitely part of the “wow “ factor in any kitchen remodel but all the bells and whistles of hardware and finishing touches also add to the “wow”….we’ll discuss that in our next blog…
About Us: The Viking Craftsman Inc, award-winning contractor, combines true craftsmanship with personalized service. Specialties include additions, kitchens, bathrooms, home theaters, and outdoor living spaces in Plano, Frisco, McKinney, Richardson, Allen and Dallas, Texas.

Cabinets – Drawers, Hardware Accessories and More

admin — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 14:40:56 +0000

New trends in the cabinet industry are seeing the use of more drawers instead of doors and pullouts and glass in the upper cabinets with interior lighting. Any gadgetry that makes a kitchen more user friendly such as spice rack pullouts, trash pullouts, with multiple cans for recycling, and furniture-style feet or valences on the base of the cabinets.

Drawers: Consumers, and manufacturers alike, are harkening back to Craftsman influences, building solid wood drawer boxes with a tongue and groove, dovetail fit. Blum glides and hinges make up a high-end closing system, which creates soft closing glides —smooth, silent and quality. Using full extension drawer guides –not having any blind corners and adjustable shelving—helps make the cabinet more efficient. When homeowners begin to use the cabinetry and realize the functionality of the drawer box, they start to appreciate not only the orderliness required to use drawers but the volume of space that’s been gained in storage. No longer do you have the get down on your hands and knees and pull everything off the shelf to find what you think you stored at the back of the cabinet a couple of years ago. You simply pull the drawer fully open and you can see everything while your feet are still flat on the floor. Of course, if the homeowner simply wants the traditional look of the shallow drawer above doors, simply turn every shelf into a rollout, which accomplishes the same convenience.

Addition Storage: The goal is to maximize your kitchen space. Pullouts for spice racks, for example, create optimum usage of that space while giving the exterior a high-end look. A servo drive or remote sensoring is unique to cabinetry; the concept is to install one inside the cabinet for the automatic opening and closing of cabinets. This comes in handy when trying to throw garbage or recyclables out. With the nudge of your knee, you can discard of refuse by not having to touch or cross contaminate any surface!

Make Cabinets Your Kitchen’s Focal Point

admin — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 19:53:02 +0000

Let’s face it, times are tough. What was once a fluid real estate market, now has slowed in pace. More homeowners are staying in their homes, renovating and remodeling to increase resale value for a possible later sell date. And, a need home improvement overhaul goes a long way for consumer peace of mind.

Take the kitchen, for example. Other than your bathrooms, the kitchen is the most used and heavily trafficked area in the home. The preparation and cooking of meals are more pronounced because of a family’s busy schedule. So why not infuse some much needed personality – and functionality – into the epicenter of your home with an upgrade. When deliberating over a kitchen makeover, homeowners traditionally consider new countertops first, followed by an appliance facelift….NOT SO FAST! Cabinets are where it’s at.
It is better to choose cabinets first and make the countertops and paint complement the finish, then select hardware and accent accessories/glass afterward. Extreme dark finishes and light finishes can visually affect the room’s appearance positively, so the tops and other accent colors really can help direct the preferred styling.

First and foremost, you need implementation of a solid design plan. Whether it is put new touches on existing cabinets or going the custom route, it is imperative to visualize the design concept.

Ultimately, the cabinetry needs to be in line with the geometry of the kitchen. The working triangle – or the distance between the refrigerator/preparation area to the cooking area to the sink/cleanup area – is and always will be the key to designing an efficient kitchen.

In our next few blogs we will go into detail about cabinet constructs, wood types, hardware accessories, drawers, and additional storage. Stay tuned…