In part one of this two-part blog series, we looked at some of the more common errors we sometimes see when it comes to kitchen design. From improper theme or trend selection to storage issues and more, there are a few ways your kitchen design can be led astray – but also some simple ways to avoid these problems and achieve an efficient, beautiful design. 

At AWA Kitchen Cabinets, we’re here to assist clients around Salt Lake City with all their kitchen design needs, including a huge range of kitchen cabinets, countertops, flooring selections and more. Here are some other common mistakes we see made during the kitchen design process, plus how to avoid them and ensure you’re in great shape moving forward. 

No (Or Improper) Focal Points

One important concept when it comes to kitchen design is the idea of focal points. These are often visual areas that draw in the eye and create a central point for the room – they can be anything from a large window to a strategically placed island or even appliances with unique designs. 

In some cases, people don’t do enough to establish proper focal points in their kitchen design, leading to feelings of chaos or disorganization. In others, they create focal points, but not in a way that works well with the rest of the design.

To avoid these issues, work closely with our design team at AWA Kitchen Cabinets. We’ll help establish proper focal points and ensure they align perfectly with your desired theme or style. 

Cabinets as a Secondary Consideration

While no one is saying cabinets have to be the first items you purchase or install for any new kitchen design, they should still be high on the list of priorities. Cabinets are often one of the largest visual components within any given kitchen space, and can also make a big difference in terms of both storage and functionality.

Those who put cabinets lower on their priority list may find themselves scrambling to find options that fit with other elements already chosen – or worse, they may have to compromise on the cabinets they really wanted due to budgetary constraints. 

Improper Lighting

Another common error we see among kitchen designers is improper lighting choices. This includes both inadequate lighting and incorrect types of lights for certain areas – for instance, using overly harsh or bright lighting above the sink.

Work with our design team to ensure all your desired lighting areas are accounted for in the design, and that you have the proper fixtures and bulbs selected to fit all your needs. 

Lack of Functionality

Finally, always be sure you’re considering functionality at every step of the kitchen design process. This means not just selecting beautiful features that may not actually work well once installed – it also means carefully planning where certain items will go and what their functions will be, not just how they look. This is another area where our expert designers can play a major role in setting you on the right path.

For more on avoiding common kitchen design errors or to learn about any of our custom cabinet services, speak to the staff at AWA Kitchen Cabinets today. We’ll help you through every step of the process. Good luck!

Avoiding major mistakes is important for any significant design project around your home, and a kitchen design of any kind is no exception. There are a few kinds of errors that can be made during these projects, but also some simple ways to avoid them and ensure that your project remains on-track and on-budget.

At AWA Kitchen Cabinets, we’re here to offer clients around Salt Lake City a huge range of kitchen cabinets, countertops, flooring options and more to help you design the ideal kitchen space. In this two-part blog series, we’ll go over some of the general mistakes we’ve seen made during kitchen design projects, plus how to steer clear of them and keep your project running smoothly at all times.

No Central Theme or Aesthetic

When it comes to kitchen design, having a central theme or aesthetic is key. This ensures that all elements of the space work together and create a cohesive look.

Without this, you may end up with a mismatched kitchen that doesn’t flow well and leaves you feeling unsatisfied with the results. For instance, if you have a modern and sleek aesthetic in mind, but choose traditional cabinets and countertops, the end result may not be what you envisioned.

Not Enough Storage Space

Another common mistake we see is not planning for enough storage space. While it’s easy to focus on the visual aspects of kitchen design, practicality and functionality are just as important.

Without enough storage space, your kitchen can quickly become cluttered and disorganized. Consider all the items you’ll need to store in your kitchen, from pots and pans to small appliances, and make sure to plan for enough cabinets or other storage solutions.

Trying to Do Everything Alone

Look, we definitely understand the desire from many people to take a DIY approach to their kitchen design. However, unless you have significant experience in design and construction, we generally don’t recommend going it alone.

Kitchen projects require a great deal of planning, attention to detail, and expertise in areas like plumbing and electrical work. Hiring professionals will not only save you time and stress but also ensure that the job is done correctly and meets all safety standards.

Improper Trend Consideration

Trends are a nuanced area of kitchen design. On one hand, it’s important to consider them and stay current with modern styles – but on the other, you don’t want to chase trends that will become outdated quickly.

We recommend a balance here: Consider incorporating trendy elements in your kitchen design, but make sure they’re not the focal point or something that will drastically alter the look of your space. A good rule of thumb is to stick with timeless, classic pieces for major elements like cabinets and countertops, then add trendy accents or minor details that can be easily changed out as styles evolve over time.

In part two of our series, we’ll go over a few more common mistakes and how to avoid them during your kitchen design project. For more information or any of our services, speak to the pros at AWA Kitchen Cabinets today!

In part one of this two-part blog series, we looked at some of the basic maintenance and cleaning concepts you’ll want to keep in mind for wood kitchen cabinets in your home. From basic wipe-downs to needs like spill removal and sunlight protection, there are a few very simple things you can do on a regular basis to keep wood cabinets in great shape.

At AWA Kitchen Cabinets, we’re here to offer a wide range of quality kitchen cabinets to clients around Salt Lake City, plus expertise on how to care for any of our products. Today’s part two of our series will shift gears and look at some more involved deep cleaning steps to consider periodically for your cabinets, or when a major spill or other incident has occurred.

How Often Should Deep Cleaning Be Done?

Before we get to specific cleaning steps, it’s important to know how often deep cleaning should be done for wood cabinets. In general, you’ll want to do this once a year at minimum – or more often if your kitchen sees heavy use. If a major spill occurs, you may wish to do so immediately following its cleanup.

Item Removal

First off when beginning the process of deep cleaning your cabinets, begin by removing items from them. This both makes it easier to clean and also ensures safety for your dishes, pots and other common kitchen items.

Cleaning Solutions

Next up will be using standard wood-cleaning solutions on your cabinets – these are designed not only to remove any surface grime or dirt, but also provide added protection from future issues. These are typically available at your local hardware store or online, and using them on a regular basis will help prevent things like discoloration or major spills that may require more advanced cleaning techniques.

Be sure to never use abrasive cleaning solutions on your wood cabinets, as these may cause scratches or other forms of damage. Always stick to mild options.

Deep Cleaning and Stains

For those who have major stains present on their wood cabinets, it’s vital to address these immediately before they set in further. You can use a combination of white vinegar and water for this purpose – create a solution using equal parts of each, then spray it onto the stained area. Wait five minutes or so, then wipe the area down with a damp cloth. This should remove most stains.

Cabinet Drying and Sealing

Finally, following cleaning steps be sure to dry your cabinets thoroughly before sealing them up again – moisture that’s left behind can cause issues over time. You have two primary options for sealing: Wood sealer products available at the store, or a simple coat of furniture wax. For more on how to apply either of these materials, please speak to our staff today.

By following both part one and part two of this series, you’ll be well on your way to long-lasting wood kitchen cabinets that are free from damage and provide maximum value to your home for many years. At AWA Kitchen Cabinets, we’re proud to provide a wide range of kitchen cabinets, countertops and related products – contact us today to learn more!

Basic care is important for any major purchase or investment we make within our homes, and kitchen cabinets are a great example. For those who utilize beautiful wood cabinets in their kitchen, just a few basic care recommendations should be followed to ensure that your cabinets remain in great shape both functionally and aesthetically for years to come.

At AWA Kitchen Cabinets, we’re happy to not only offer the widest selection of kitchen cabinets in Salt Lake City, including our own AWA Classic Collection and many others, but also to provide expertise on cabinet care and upkeep to any of our clients. In this two-part blog series, we’ll discuss some basic care recommendations for wooden kitchen cabinets – today’s part one will focus on standard maintenance that should be performed periodically, while part two will look at some deep cleaning and more intensive care tips for whenever they’re necessary.

Basic Wipe-Downs

One of the great parts about purchasing today’s wood kitchen cabinets is the fact that they require very little in terms of cleaning. You won’t need to do much more than a simple periodic wipe down with a soft cloth and mild detergent. This should be done once every few weeks, or more often if your kitchen sees heavy use.

Remove Spills Quickly

Whenever you have any type of food that may splatter onto the cabinet doors, make sure to remove it quickly to prevent staining or damage from occurring. A damp cloth or sponge and some mild detergent should do the trick.

Only Soft Cloths

Avoiding any potential damage is important while cleaning wood kitchen cabinets, so make sure to use soft cloths and avoid abrasive materials like steel wool or scourers. Microfiber tends to be a great choice for cabinet cleaning.

Protect from Sunlight

When you can, keep your kitchen cabinets out of direct sunlight to prevent fading and discoloration. This doesn’t mean the area needs to be completely dark – just avoid any direct contact between the sun’s rays and your cabinetry.

Avoid Harsh Chemical Contact

Whether we’re talking about cleaners or any other chemical-based products, it’s best to avoid contact between such harsh chemicals and your kitchen cabinets. This could end up damaging the wood over time, so instead opt for gentler but effective cleaning solutions specifically designed for use on wood cabinetry.

By following these basic maintenance tips, you should be well on your way to keeping your beautiful wooden kitchen cabinets looking their best for years to come. In part two of this blog series, we’ll look at some deeper cleaning tips and solutions for when more intensive care is required. Stay tuned!

At AWA Kitchen Cabinets, we understand the value of quality cabinetry and offer our customers the best in selection, service, and care. If you live in or around Salt Lake City and are looking for top-of-the-line kitchen cabinets with unbeatable prices, contact us today to learn more about what we have to offer!

In part one of this two-part blog series, we went over some basics and simple differences between painted and stained kitchen cabinets. Stained cabinets keep the grain of the wood visible while treating it to bring out its colors, while painted cabinets will be completely covered with new paint that will hide the wood grain entirely – and each offers its own benefits and drawbacks depending on your desires.

At AWA Kitchen Cabinets, we’re happy to offer a wide range of kitchen cabinets to clients around Salt Lake City, including a huge variety of both stained and painted cabinets. While we left off in part one of our series talking about the aesthetics that come with both options, today’s part two will look at some other key comparison points if you’re choosing between them.

Durability

When it comes to durability, the winner between painted and stained cabinets will actually depend on your key priority: Is it truly avoiding damage, or is it the ability to hide or conceal damage when it happens?

If the former is your top goal, painted cabinets are likely the better option. Stain can be more prone to damage, especially if caused by long-term sun exposure or temperature changes that cause the wood grain to warp. Painted cabinets are a much better option for resisting these kinds of environmental wear and tear over time.

On the other hand, if you anticipate your cabinets might get some use or abuse (for example with common kitchen activity like cooking oil splatters or accidental spills) you might find stained cabinets are easier to hide wear and tear, since the wood grain pattern already works to camouflage any damage.

Children?

Down similar lines, many people with young children in the home tend to opt for stained cabinets instead of painted. With kids running around, paint can be more prone to scuffs and scrapes – but the grain pattern on stained wood will help make any accidents less visible and easier to hide.

On top of that, it’s worth noting that both types of kitchen cabinets should be sealed with a protective finish – and for stain, you’ll also want to reapply stain or other treatment every few years. This will help both painted and stained cabinets stay looking their best, no matter the age of your family members!

Cost

One area where it’s really hard to go wrong here is cost – both painted and stained cabinets offer similar pricing. Depending on what style you’re going for, of course, there might be slight discrepancies here and there that will vary from one manufacturer or supplier to the next – but it’s also important to remember that choosing one over the other won’t have a huge impact on overall pricing.

Overall, both painted and stained kitchen cabinets have their own benefits and drawbacks – so depending on the look you’re going for, you’ll need to take into account your budget, lifestyle, and design preferences when making a final decision. Now that you know more about these two options, you can make an informed choice that’s perfect for your home!

At AWA Kitchen Cabinets, we’re happy to help you make the right choice no matter what type of kitchen cabinets you’re looking for. We offer a wide range of cabinet styles and colors, so whatever your unique vision is, we can help bring it to life – contact us today for more information!

There are a few key decisions that you’ll have to make when choosing new kitchen cabinets, and the finish type you use is one that will impact both aesthetic and practical areas. In particular, most kitchen cabinet buyers will be selecting between stained and painted cabinets for their needs – what are the differences, and which is best for you?

At AWA Kitchen Cabinets, we’re here to offer a wide range of kitchen cabinets from top brands like MasterCraft and Yorktowne, plus to assist clients around Salt Lake City with important decisions like these. This two-part blog series will go over the key differences between stained and painted cabinets, both in terms of aesthetics and practicality, and will look at which might be right for your needs. Let’s dive in!

Basic Definitions of Each

Firstly, let’s take a moment to specifically define painted and stained cabinets. Stained wood means that the natural grain of the wood is still visible, but has been treated to bring out its colors with a semi-transparent finish. With stained cabinets, you can choose from a wide range of colors, but all will essentially be variations of the original wood grain.

Meanwhile, painted cabinets are completely covered with a layer of paint. The wood grain is hidden by the paint and it can come in any color you want. Many people buy white kitchen cabinets for their clean aesthetic, but other popular colors include navy, hunter green and light grey.

Aesthetics: Which is More Visually Appealing?

It’s no surprise that the look of your kitchen cabinets will have a major impact on the entire vibe of your space, so aesthetic appeal should be a priority. The big question here is whether stained or painted cabinets are more visually appealing – and the answer will vary based on personal preference.

Stained cabinets tend to offer more of a traditional vibe, as the natural grain gives off a warm feeling that stands out in both lighter and deeper shades. They’re also great for highlighting unique wood grains, which can make them look very distinct from one another. On top of that, stained cabinets can also be great for creating a cozy atmosphere.

Painted cabinets, on the other hand, are great for those looking to create a bright and airy environment with their kitchen. The paint coverage allows them to offer more variation in color than most stained options, and they can look like brand new even after many years of use.

In part two of our series, we’ll go over some additional factors like price, durability, and ease of cleaning to help you decide whether stained or painted cabinets are best for your needs. Stay tuned!

At AWA Kitchen Cabinets, we want every homeowner in Salt Lake City to get the perfect cabinets for their needs. Our team will work with you as you explore different options and weigh up the pros and cons of stained vs painted kitchen cabinets. Contact us today to learn more!

In part one of this two-part blog series, we looked at some of the major modern upgrades in lighting technology that have made the use of in-cabinet lighting much more common in recent years. Between the rise of energy-efficient LEDs and several other modern developments, it’s easier than ever to get kitchen cabinets that have light in each specific cabinet area.

At AWA Kitchen Cabinets, we offer Salt Lake City’s finest collection of quality kitchen cabinets, including for clients looking for modern options like these. Today’s part two of our series will go over the main benefits of utilizing lights in your kitchen cabinets.

Safety Considerations

Naturally, as you may have already guessed, one of the top benefits of installing cabinet lights is improved safety. With proper lighting in your cabinets, you can easily find what you need without having to worry about reaching into unknown dark corners or relying solely on a flashlight.

This is especially valuable for people in households with small children or elderly members, as the lights can make it easier for them to find what they need without risking injury.

Avoiding Cooking Mistakes

Due to improved accuracy and visibility, cabinet lights can also be a big help when it comes to avoiding cooking mistakes. When you can see everything in your cabinets without having to search around, you can get the ingredients you need quickly and avoid any issues that might arise from using the wrong one in a recipe.

As an example, using a tablespoon of salt instead of a teaspoon could ruin your dish–an issue that could be avoided with proper lighting.

Highlighting Quality Elements

Another great benefit of cabinet lights is that they can help you to highlight the quality elements in your kitchen. When done properly, a good lighting system can emphasize high-end materials and designs, as well as make for a more stylish overall look.

For instance, if you recently updated your cabinets with a modern, high-quality material like natural stone or hardwood, proper cabinet lighting can help to bring out the beauty of these elements.

Energy Savings

For many people, one of the best benefits that comes with installing in-cabinet lighting is energy savings–and this is especially true if you opt for LED bulbs. As previously discussed, LEDs are much more energy efficient than traditional incandescent or halogen bulbs, meaning you can save a lot of money when it comes to your electricity bill over time.

Some even find that they can reduce other light sources in the kitchen, such as overhead lights or wall sconces, as the cabinet lighting can provide sufficient illumination for certain areas.

At AWA Kitchen Cabinets, we have a wide selection of quality kitchen cabinets at competitive prices. Contact us today to learn more about any of our products or services!

Modern technology continues to have a positive impact on many industries and products, and one that you may not have even considered until recently is that of kitchen cabinets. More and more, the use of light fixtures as part of cabinet setups is becoming highly popular, offering several key benefits to the kitchens in which they’re installed.

At AWA Kitchen Cabinets, we’re proud to offer Salt Lake City’s best selection of quality kitchen cabinets – plus numerous accessories or upgrades you might be considering for some or all of your cabinets. This two-part blog series will go over everything you should know when it comes to in-cabinet lighting for your kitchen cabinets – today’s part one will look at some of the modern developments that have made this increasingly popular, while part two will go over some of the main benefits of going this route for some or all of your cabinets.

Rise of LEDs

One of the first and most notable areas of development when it comes to in-cabinet lighting for kitchen cabinets is the rise of LED technology. LEDs were first developed and released approximately 50 years ago, but recent developments have made them faster, brighter, and more cost effective than ever.

The brightness and energy efficiency of LEDs makes them an ideal option for in-cabinet lighting – they don’t take up much space, can be installed in a variety of ways, and use relatively little energy. This makes them an ideal option for those looking to add some extra light and class to their kitchen cabinets without spending a fortune on electricity bills or purchasing heavy-duty equipment.

Increased Versatility

In addition to the rise of LED technology, in-cabinet lighting has become increasingly versatile. From traditional strip lights to directional spotlights and everything in between, there are countless options on the market today that can be used to create an attractive and functional atmosphere in your kitchen.

No matter what type of cabinet setup you have, there’s almost certainly a lighting option that can be used to enhance the look and feel of your kitchen. And with new technology coming out all the time, there are always more exciting options on the horizon for those looking to spruce up their kitchen cabinets with some stylish lighting.

Portability

One of the key benefits of in-cabinet lighting is its portability. Unlike other forms of kitchen cabinet lighting, you can easily move and reposition the lights to create different looks or accommodate a changing layout. This makes them ideal for those who want to be able to adjust their kitchen cabinets regularly without having to go through the trouble (and expense) of removing and then re-installing lighting fixtures.

In part two of this series, we’ll look at some of the key benefits of in-cabinet lighting, such as improved visibility and energy efficiency. However, even just considering the developments we’ve touched on here, you can start to see why this type of lighting is becoming increasingly popular with kitchen cabinet owners everywhere.

At AWA Kitchen Cabinets, our capable team can help you find the perfect lighting fixtures for your kitchen cabinets. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help you get the most out of your cabinet setup!

In part one of this two-part blog series, we looked at some basics on base kitchen cabinets and their types. Some of the most popular and well-known cabinets out there, base cabinets are installed to the floor of a given room, providing support for counters while also allowing storage space.

At AWA Kitchen Cabinets, we’re happy to offer a wide range of kitchen cabinets from top manufacturers, including base cabinets for all our client needs around Salt Lake City. Today’s part two will look into the various levels of customization found for base cabinets, plus how to consider each one.

Stock Cabinets

When you hear the term “stock” cabinets, what comes to mind is a product that’s already made and in-store. This can mean anything from ready-made kitchen, bathroom, home office or other base cabinets available for installation.

Stock base cabinets come with a combination of benefits and potential drawbacks depending on the situation. For one, they can be ready to go pretty quickly, are usually affordable and suit a variety of different needs. On the other hand, you’re limited to what’s already available in-store and may not find exactly what you need if you have very specific parameters for your cabinets.

RTA Cabinets

While some consider RTA cabinets part of the stock cabinet sector, the acronym stands for “ready to assemble,” meaning that you’ll need to put them together yourself. This can work out in your favor since the cabinets will arrive with all their pieces and components, allowing you to customize their installation in a way that works for your space.

Semi-Custom Cabinets

This type of base kitchen cabinet involves more customization and is usually considered an upgrade when compared to the previously mentioned options. In this case, you can choose the design of your cabinets, as well as the materials used and their measurements. This allows for greater control over how they look in your kitchen while also offering a little more convenience if you’re dealing with odd spaces or limited room.

Custom Cabinets

Finally, custom cabinets are the ultimate in base cabinet customization. As their name implies, you can design all aspects of these cabinets, from the materials used to their size and shape. This provides for a unique look that works perfectly with your kitchen’s existing theme and architecture.

When shopping for your kitchen cabinets, it can be helpful to decide which type of cabinet is best for you. While stock cabinets are a great choice if you’re looking for speed and affordability, custom cabinets provide the ultimate level of customization and design options. Whatever type you choose, AWA Kitchen Cabinets have the perfect base cabinet solution for you!  We look forward to helping make your kitchen dreams come true. Contact us today to get started on the perfect kitchen of your dreams.

There are several types of cabinets that might be utilized within a given kitchen, each with their own purposes and qualities to consider. One of the most well-known and well-used types, found in numerous kitchens around various styles of home, is the base cabinet.

At AWA Kitchen Cabinets, we’re here to offer Salt Lake City’s widest selection of high-quality kitchen cabinets, and base cabinets are one of numerous varieties we provide. What exactly are base cabinets, which kinds of base cabinets can you choose from, and what are some varying installation formats for these? We’ll go over all this and more in this two-part blog series.

What Are Base Cabinets?

For those unfamiliar with the term, base cabinets are a type of kitchen cabinet that is installed to the floor. These cabinets provide structural support for counters and other kitchen surfaces. In addition, they usually offer storage in the form of drawers or shelves within which items can be stored and organized.

Base cabinets will range in size, but will usually average around 36 inches in height. Their depth will also vary, as will the number of drawers or shelves a given cabinet might contain.

Base Cabinet Types

There are several types of base cabinets often used in a kitchen, including:

• Sink base cabinet: This type of base cabinet is meant to support a kitchen sink. It will usually feature two false-front drawers, as well as two large doors at the bottom that provide access to plumbing and other sink-related items.
• Corner base cabinet: As the name implies, this type of base cabinet is designed to fit into a corner. It will usually feature two doors and one false-front drawer, providing easy accessibility to its contents regardless of the angle from which it is viewed.
• Drawer base cabinet: This type of base cabinet offers storage in the form of multiple drawers rather than shelves. It is often used to store lightweight items such as utensils and cleaning supplies.
• Door-and-shelf base cabinet: As the name implies, this type of base cabinet combines shelves behind doors with drawers or a false-front. This allows for multiple types of storage to be located in one space.
• Door-and-drawer base cabinet: Down related lines, this type of base cabinet combines drawers behind doors with shelving or a false-front. It is a great way to store bulkier items while still keeping them organized and accessible.
• Pantry base cabinet: This type of base cabinet is designed for larger items that need more space, such as pots and pans. It will typically feature one large door and two or three shelves.
• Oven base cabinet: Finally, this type of base cabinet is designed to house a large oven. It usually features two doors and may have adjustable shelves.

At AWA Kitchen Cabinets, we offer all of these types of base cabinets in various sizes, styles, and finishes to suit any kitchen project you might have. In part two of this blog series, we’ll discuss some installation formats for these cabinets, to help you get started on the perfect kitchen makeover. Stay tuned!