Countertops

Can Your New Kitchen Accommodate an Island?

August 21, 2020 by iccfloors Leave a Comment

Islands are among the most requested features in the dream kitchens we design for homeowners in Indianapolis. Islands serve multiple purposes: providing a palate for meal preparation, dining, working, a place to do homework, and a storage facility. When homeowners in Indianapolis request an island, we determine if there is sufficient space, and if not, we recommend alternatives that can provide similar functionality.

In smaller spaces, we can custom design an island to fit the space. Common features may include shallower depths, custom cabinetry and custom height. There is no standard specification that is required to custom design an island. Islands in a kitchen must provide enough space for families to maneuver effortlessly and safely throughout the space. The size, shape and location of the island depend first and foremost on the size of the room and who will use the kitchen and for what purposes. The space between the island and cabinetry is called the clearance zone. The National Kitchen & Bath Association suggests a clearance zone of 42 to 48 inches. If that is not possible, we have designed kitchens with clearance zones of 39 inches. The key is to ensure that base cabinets and appliance doors can open unencumbered. There should be a least three feet between an open door and the island to provide safe travel throughout the kitchen.

The clearance zone and size of the island are also affected by the number of users. If there are only two family members who live in the home, smaller islands and clearances are possible. The rule of thumb in sizing and configuring islands is to factor the homeowners’ functionality and aesthetic dreams into the space’s potential clearance. The bottom line is that islands need to be proportionate to the space.

Island Alternatives

Some kitchens may not be able to accommodate an island. That does not mean you need to compromise the functionality that an island can offer. Reconfiguring a kitchen space to allow for an open floor plan or physically extending the kitchen space are viable options. Rolling islands are another alternative. We partner with wonderful manufacturers who can custom create a butcher block on wheels.

Peninsulas are another popular alternative to islands. The difference between an island and a peninsula is an island has four sides, and a peninsula is fixed to a wall and only offers three sides. Peninsulas offer an extra yard of space.

Can an island or peninsula work in your dream kitchen? We can help you find out if either can. Simply, give us a call or make an appointment to visit one of our showrooms, and help make your dream kitchen a reality.

Kitchen Remodel Ideas

June 23, 2020 by iccfloors Leave a Comment

To help you take on your next remodeling project, we have created ten tips for a kitchen remodel. Let’s get started!

Kitchen Remodel Ideas:

Wide Walkways.
Narrow walkways can cause a newly remodeled space to feel tight or out of date. Before finalizing your remodeling plans, be sure to discuss adding wide walkways into their kitchen. The wide walkways will give you more room to move around and work throughout the kitchen.
The Right Height.
A lot of times, homeowners will place their appliances wherever it looks best rather than taking function and proper layout into consideration. For example, to ensure you have the best kitchen for YOUR family and YOUR lifestyle, you want to place your microwave and double ovens at the right height for you. If you are shorter or taller, this will adjust depending on your preferences.
Do Not Cut Corners.
Corner cabinets can be a tricky topic, because they tend to have difficulties opening when another cabinet is open. Before ruling them out, let’s talk corners and find you a solution!
A Purpose-Filled Island.
Islands are terrific place to add a must-needed feature in your home without wasting space. If you are in need of an extra sink or even storage, your island can come in handy. Be sure to incorporate these essential features into your island for maximum functionality.
Count on Counters.
During a remodel, you want to make sure that you buy a solid countertop. You want to choose one that is easy to maintain and fits your cooking needs. Be sure to discuss the different options before you settle on one.
One Less Trip.
If you have extra money in your budget or you consider yourself a home chef, you may want to consider adding a pot filler near your stovetop. It doesn’t seem like much, but saving an extra trip to the sink with a heavy pot can be a real luxury!
Chalk It Up To A Fantastic Idea.
Chalkboard accents are a stylish and functional option. They are the perfect solution for busy homeowners who need a place to write their grocery list. They also make for a great kid distraction while you are cooking dinner. Some would argue that chalkboards are no longer in style, but we say function first!
Get Plugged In.
Take a look at the amount of outlets you currently have in your kitchen. If you feel like you could use more, now is the time to get some more added. Extra outlets will come in handy more often than you think! If you can’t add more outlets, switch out your existing outlets for newer ones that include USB ports alongside the plugs.
Small Spaces = Soft Shades.
If you have a small kitchen, expert designers recommend sticking with soft shades. Darker shades tend to make the room feel smaller.
The Main Event.
Just like in any room, you want to create a focal point. Whatever your point of interest may be, try to make a statement that reflects your family and your style!

Whether you are starting from the beginning and need step-by-step guidance or know exactly what you need, ICC Home’s new showroom will give you a quick, efficient, and joyful shopping experience. Our new showroom will help ensure a smooth transition between design projects. You will not have to worry about miscommunication and delays with different contractors because it will all be serviced by our team. From cabinet vignettes to countertops to flooring, all of our products work together in order to show you different styles and design trends in the industry.

Spring Projects: Embracing the Blooming Season

April 30, 2020 by iccfloors Leave a Comment

With the soon-arrival of the blooming season, homeowners may find themselves busier than ever. In fact, homeowners may even be participating in springtime’s associated activity “spring cleaning.” The activity derives from the fact that our homes will need a little more TLC since we are transitioning from colder, drearier months. During winter, we put these necessary home projects on the backburner until the weather begins to warm. Therefore, the opportunity to tackle these must-needed home projects is almost here. And to help you prepare for the day, we have created a list of five spring projects that you may want to start this season. Let’s take a look!

An Effortless Landscape

When you take a step inside, does your house feel underwhelming? If so, you may be in need of some new floors. In fact, flooring can set the stage for your design. So this spring, take some tips from the light and airy season by renovating your floors with this year’s hottest trends, including light-colored floors. From hand-scraped to wire-brushed trends to marble looks, the design possibilities are endless in 2020. Plus, with innovations in the industry, you do not have to settle for only one type of flooring in your home.

A Fresh Look

Every year, the global color authorities, Pantone Color, determine a “Color of the Year.” This year, Pantone Color chose “Classic Blue,” and its definition is not far from its name. This color is described as “calm, confident, and connective.” It provides a peaceful slate for our designs while captivating us through its thought-provoking properties. In fact, Classic Blue is the perfect paint color choice for any room that needs a relaxing yet timeless tone. You can incorporate this effortless color into your room’s landscape this spring for a refreshing twist on your interior design.

A Delightful Addition

Since spring embraces new plant life, we think that there is no better way to highlight your countertops than through the use of plants and flowers. In fact, plants can help provide greenery and life to a space while adding to the overall aesthetic. However, if you notice that your countertops are not as pristine as they once were, you have two options. One option is that you can have your countertops replaced. The renewing season of spring is the perfect time to refresh your design, especially when it comes to countertops. If you are looking to refresh your countertop design this spring, currently homeowners love the natural, one-of-a-kind beauty of marble and quartz countertops. Marble countertops feature an authentic, beautiful veining that is unmatched by any other countertop. However, if you are looking for a more durable & low maintenance countertop, quartz is a great option, you can opt for beautiful quartz countertops. Quartz is composed of natural crystals, which makes it an insanely gorgeous countertop option. Plus, quartz countertops are perfect for homeowners who love to cook because they are scratch-, stain-, and heat-resistant.

A Sweet Escape

With the weather warming, there is no time like the present to upgrade your backyard. In fact, we like to capitalize on this sweet oasis during warm nights by utilizing our space. If you have not created an outdoor oasis yet, you can simply add items that make you happy. For instance, you can incorporate some comfortable seating for entertaining, build your own firepit for warmth, hang decorative stringed lighting for creativity, or make a beautiful paver pathway to and from your house. The options for your outdoor retreat are truly endless – just remember to add items that will have you coming back for more.

A Warm Welcome

Nothing says “welcome home” quite like awesome curb appeal. Plus, spring is the perfect time of year to spruce up your front yard. For instance, you can replace your house numbers, repaint your front door and shutters, add potted plants to your porch, incorporate a new welcome mat, and swap out your mailbox. Much like our backyard projects, our front yard projects are all about your personal preferences. Start with whatever you currently dislike about your curb appeal and work from there.

With these simple spring projects, you can create an inspiring, noteworthy design that is ready to take on the new year. We hope you enjoyed, and thanks for reading!

How to Choose the Best Backsplash to Complement Your Counters

February 21, 2020 by iccfloors Leave a Comment

Backsplashes are very useful and decorative ways to cover and protect your walls. In the kitchen, they are used to prevent food from staining or splashing against your walls. And while being functional, backsplashes are made from various stylish tile options that can easily become the focal point in any kitchen. Therefore, when searching for the perfect backsplash, there are several avenues to explore. To help, here are just three simple ways to decide which backsplash is best for your kitchen:

Matchy, Matchy

First, determine what your room’s overall design theme is. Would a matching backsplash and countertop help complement the design? For instance, some homeowners love to pair marble backsplashes with marble countertops. You can also try to stick to the same color countertop to match the same color backsplash for a uniform look. This simple but effective way will help blend your design and create an effortless look.

All About the Accent

You can also use your backsplash as an accent opportunity. Are you looking to add some color or character to the room? If so, using mosaic tiles are a great decorative way to add some color to your kitchen design. In fact, mosaic tiles can help add repetitive patterns and artistic flair to the room. If you choose not to make your room feel monochromatic, consider using your backsplash as an accent opportunity. Find a color that you want to introduce into the room. You can continue to pay tribute to this color throughout other accents in the room; however, note that the backsplash will be the defining moment.

A Safe Bet

Your last option could be selecting a neutral color backsplash. If you love your cabinets and countertops, do not take from the statement that they make. However, if everything feels too powerful in a design, it can begin to feel chaotic and busy. A safe option is to simply get a neutral colored backsplash.

Finishing Touch

Another way to allow your countertops to complement your backsplash is by matching the finishes. For instance, does your countertop have a high sheen or matte finish? If so, allow your design to work with each other by complementing both finishes. This concept is an excellent way to add texture to your room’s design while complementing the overall design.

These are just some simple ways to help match your backsplash with your countertops. However, do not be overwhelmed in the decision. Explore different tile options and bring them home to see next to your countertops. You may be pleasantly surprised by an unsuspecting tile choice.

Best Countertops for Homeowners Who Love to Cook

December 6, 2019 by iccfloors Leave a Comment

While most homeowners realize that buying countertops is an investment, they can often base their decision on looks rather than their lifestyle. However, it is important to understand the characteristics of each countertop and choose a product that aligns with your needs. Where quartz may be superior in one aspect, granite may fall short in another area. Grasping the countertops as a whole and basing your decision off of your lifestyle is crucial.

That being said, we are talking about countertops. Countertops, typically, go in two areas of the home: the kitchen and bathroom. When determining the right countertop option for your kitchen, you will want to take into consideration how often you cook, what you cook, and if you are entertaining. These factors can help you make the right choice. But at ICC Home, we are all about making your decisions easy. That is why we have chosen two countertop choices for homeowners who love to cook. Enjoy!

Granite

Granite countertops are loved for their distinct, unmatched beauty and superior durability. Although they come with some needed maintenance, overall, you will find that granite countertops can help you channel your inner chef and prepare a delectable meal. For instance, they are not easily scratched, which can be helpful when cooking large meals with heavy pots and pans. Additionally, granite is heat-resistant, letting you set hot items out on your countertops. Lastly, when granite is sealed, it will create a less porous landscape for food particles and liquids to penetrate, helping you to remove messes easily.

When it comes to maintenance, granite countertops are quite easy to clean. You will want to take a damp, soft cloth and clean your countertops regularly. Additionally, you will want to avoid letting wet items sit on your countertops for extended periods of time. And although granite countertops can be scratch-resistant, it is always best to use a cutting board.

Quartz

Quartz is another well-loved countertop choice. Quartz is composed of natural quartz crystals, making one of the most beautiful and durable countertop selections for your home. Plus, its beauty is matched by its durability, making it a great choice for homeowners who love to cook. In fact, quartz countertops are scratch-, stain-, and heat-resistant, which provides the chef with ease will cooking. While it is heat-resistant, extremely high temperatures can burn the material, so be sure to use caution.

When it comes to maintenance, quartz countertops are one of the easiest countertop products to maintain. Unlike its counterparts, quartz does not need any sealers. In fact, you do not need to seal your countertops each year since they are non-porous. Instead, you will merely need clear dish soap and a damp, soft rag to clean it.

Are you between quartz and granite countertops? If so, one of our expert sales associates would love to help you make the final decision. Please do not hesitate to call or visit us with any questions.

Countertop Care & Maintenance

November 8, 2019 by iccfloors Leave a Comment

Countertops, whether inside of the kitchen or bathroom, are not only great for functional purposes, but they also add a beautiful design element. To help your kitchen countertops stay beautiful, it is important to keep up on a regular care and maintenance routine. That being said, countertops and their characteristics can differ, so it is important to understand your countertop’s needs. Today, we are going to take a look at ICC Home’s countertop selection, and let you know how to care for them properly. Let’s get started!

Ceramic Tile

Fortunately, ceramic tile is a low-maintenance countertop solution. On a daily basis, you will want to take a sponge or a soft washcloth and wipe down your countertops and backsplash. With a manufacturer-recommended cleaner, you will want to clean the tile and grout.

When deep cleaning, you will want to consult with your manufacturer to guarantee you are using approved products. After using an approved cleaner (i.e., one to remove soap scum, hard water deposits, and mildew stains), you will want to wipe down and rinse off any leftover product thoroughly.

Things to Remember:

You will want to clean spills right away, so your tile and its grout do not become stained.
Never use abrasive cleaners or steel wool since they can scratch the surface.
Always use a cutting board.
Do not sit or stand on your ceramic tile countertops.
You can use a soft brush when deep cleaning your countertops.

Laminate

With the way that it is made, the color and/or patterns you see on your laminate countertops are not consistent through the entire product, which means scratching can occur. Homeowners will want to avoid any scratches on their laminate counters because the scratches cannot be repaired. Additionally, laminate is a non-porous material; however, its seams are not non-porous. It is important to clean the seams to eliminate bacteria growth. To clean your laminate countertops, simply take soap and water with a clean sponge or washcloth. Afterward, be sure to completely dry the seams as well as your counters.

Things to Remember:

Never use abrasive cleaners on your laminate countertops.
Normal wear and tear are normal on laminate counters; however, heat will cause damage. Always use a trivet with hot pans.
Avoid acidic or vinegar cleaners.
Always use a cutting board.

Slab Stone

To clean your slab stone countertops, we recommend going with a manufacturer-approved cleaner, specifically made for their stone countertops. If you are unable to get the approved cleaner, you can use a neutral pH dish soap or pure, dye-free soap for daily cleaning. When cleaning, be sure to rinse the countertops thoroughly and buff them dry with a clean, soft cloth.

Things to Remember:

Each natural stone is a different level of porous; therefore, it may be wise to seal your countertops annually.
Sealing also helps slow down the staining process.
Too much cleaner or soap on your countertops can leave a film or even streaks.
Never use products that contain vinegar, abrasives, or any ammonia-based cleaners.
Do not use retail grout cleaners or bathroom cleaners on your stone countertops.
Avoid acidic foods on your countertops since they can change the color of your stone countertops. Avoid oil-based products since they can stain your countertops.

Solid Surface

Solid surface countertops are loved for their low-maintenance properties, as well as their ability to be resurfaced. For everyday cleaning, simply take soap and water or an ammonia-based cleaner. For deep cleaning, you can use a damp washcloth with a household detergent. To remove more stubborn stains, you can use fine sandpaper to resurface your countertops. Just be sure to reference your manufacturer’s guide for the correct sanding process.

Things to Remember:

Always use a cutting board.
Be sure to use a trivet for hot pots and pans.
Never use nail polish remover, oven cleaner, drain cleaners, lacquer thinner or paint removers on your countertops since they will stain or discolor the surface.

Quartz

Quartz is one of the most beautiful countertop solutions and is practically maintenance-free. Fortunately, there is no sealing, buffing, polishing, or reconditioning required with quartz. For daily cleaning, all you need is soap and water.

Things to Remember:

Quartz countertops are non-porous; therefore, they do not need to be sealed in order to prevent staining.
Quartz can tolerate moderate temperatures for a short amount of time; therefore, you will want to use a trivet when dealing with a hot pan or pot.
Always use a cutting board with quartz countertops.
Avoid strong chemicals, solvents, oven cleaners, and floor strippers on your quartz countertops.
Continuous long-term exposure to direct sunlight may result in slight discoloration of natural quartz surfaces.

As always, if you have any additional questions, please do not hesitate to leave us a comment.