kitchen

Making the Most out of Your Kitchen Island

August 14, 2020 by iccfloors Leave a Comment

We all know that kitchen islands make a kitchen look complete, add more countertop space, and are essentially needed in a big kitchen. However, we can make our kitchen island more efficient and really work for us. All that’s required is a little extra planning in the design process.

In this photo, the island is the home for the cooktop, as well as, added storage for dishes. The storage is actually built into the unit to provide safe shelving for dishware. The look that is created, from essentially having cut-outs, is a pleasing architectural effect. The island has the appearance of a cantilevered structure and depth is added when the dishes are placed on the actual island. This is done by creating positive and negative space. The positive space is the white island itself. Negative space is the cut-out shelves within the island.

Having a cooktop, sink, or combination of both in the kitchen island frees up countertop space. Free space in other areas of the kitchen can be used for more prep space, organizing groceries, or even placing food out as a serving station. This requires a little extra work from an electrician or plumber but it is well worth it. It makes it easier to use your kitchen by being able to go back and forth, from your island and the rest of your kitchen equipment. It makes it easy to work when you have added countertop space to work on.

We mentioned earlier that an island is needed in a large kitchen. This is because large kitchens have a lot of open floor space. An island breaks this vast space up and makes it more useable. Also, small kitchens can benefit from having an island. This is especially true if the sink or range is placed on the island.

It’s important to really think about your lifestyle and how you will use your kitchen. This kind of information will help us design the best kitchen for your lifestyle. For instance, do you like to entertain? Are you right or left-handed? Do you do most of the cooking or are there two cooks in your household? What type of food do you like to cook?

No judgment here! If you tell us you eat 2 out of 3 meals out of the microwave, we will make sure the microwave gets the best spot in the kitchen. If you tell us that you have small children, we can focus on details like making sure that the sippy cups are placed low enough for the littles to reach. If you tell us that you have dinner parties often we can make sure that your island is designed for appetizer presentation and conversation.

Tell us your story and we’ll help design the perfect kitchen for you! Ready to get started? Connect with us here!

Cabinet Accessories You Didn’t Know You Couldn’t Live Without

July 24, 2020 by iccfloors Leave a Comment

Whether your style is traditional, modern, or somewhere in between, when it comes to cabinets, most people don’t think about cabinet accessories. Most homeowners just think of cabinets as something you have to own to store your dishes and the only accessory options are hardware and different door styles. However, there is so much more to cabinetry! In fact, let’s take a look at some must-have cabinet accessories!

Corner Cabinets

Using a corner cabinet allows you to pick up valuable space that otherwise could go unused. This can also be an opportunity to select a door with glass to showcase serving dishes or decorative glassware. The corner of your kitchen can become a point of interest rather than a necessity.

Vanity Accessories

Often bathrooms are small spaces that need to store a lot of items! Consider using open spacing in your vanity to display rolled up towels and decor pieces. You can even unleash your inner designer and add furniture features like decorative legs or feet for your vanity.

Things to think about and ask yourself before planning for new cabinets help ensure that your cabinetry plan includes solutions that will make your life easier!

Questions to Ask Yourself:

Would your makeup or toiletries stay more organized with pull out sliding shelves?
Would a trash can or hamper, included as part of your cabinet plan, make your space feel more streamlined and organized?
Do you sit down to put on your make up where space for a chair with a vanity knee drawer would make getting ready something you could enjoy?
Would a matching framed mirror make your space feel more design-inspired?

For the Organizers

Imagine cooking in a kitchen where some of the common frustrations are solved with a little planning. Imagine all of your spices displayed and organized in a spice drawer. Imagine a cabinet designed for trays and cookie sheets so that they stay divided and upright. Imagine a trash can that opens with a gentle press from your foot for use when your hands are full. Envision all of your knives lined up with dividers to keep the blades safe. If you’re a cooking enthusiast, we’ve got the accessories to celebrate your kitchen skills as well as your kitchen tools!

Active Living

Tell us about your needs and let us find solutions to help with your lifestyle. Sharing your lifestyle with us can help us suggest solutions like raised cabinets and appliances like dishwashers for people with back issues. Whether you need something raised or lowered, our master planners can help!

Pet-Friendly Features

If you love your pets but don’t love the clutter that comes with their accessories, we’ve got toe kick drawers for storage and open bases for bowls and pet beds. Having these items stored in line with your cabinets prevents trip hazards as well as these items taking up valuable space for other items you want to see and focus on showcasing!

Decorative Designs

Do you have a love for dishes and glassware? Show them off with end displays or upper cabinet doors have decorative glass. If you don’t have a collection you want to show off, choose decorative designed doors to give your kitchen a designer look and feel.

At ICC Floors Plus, we are proud to carry Wellborn and Shrock cabinetry. Schrock is a semi-custom line known for its designer-inspired colors, intelligent storage, and style. Wellborn has cabinetry and storage solutions to help you maximize your total home living space.

Our on-staff designers are here to help make your cabinet dreams a reality. Please click to see our work or to schedule a cabinet design consultation. We look forward to working with you!

Why Install a Kitchen Backsplash

July 14, 2020 by iccfloors Leave a Comment

Don’t forget the backsplash! Whether you’re completely renovating or simply sprucing up your kitchen, it’s important to install a backsplash for several reasons.

Installing a backsplash has many benefits. It can be great for both utility and style. Should you install a backsplash in your kitchen? Take a look below!

Protects Your Kitchen Walls

The main function of a backsplash is to protect your kitchen walls from damage. Yes, it serves as a shield from water, cooking oil and other types of materials that can ruin your walls. Painted and wallpapered walls aren’t resistant to stains and they can be difficult to clean. After long periods, if they are not protected the walls can begin to look dingy.

Backsplashes make the space easier to clean. Splatters can be quickly cleaned by simply using a disinfectant and wiping the area with a clean cloth. Depending upon the type of backsplash you install it can be resistant to heat, stains and moisture which adds to its longevity.

Backsplashes are a great way to add your personality to your kitchen. They are also great for breathing life into a plainly designed kitchen.

Adds Great Style

Whether you choose a mosaic pattern, glass tile or traditional tile, there are an abundance of backsplash options available to meet your style and budget needs. If you’re going to protect your walls with tile, why not have it add a design element at the same time?

When planning your backsplash design, we realize it can be overwhelming. That’s what we are here for! We encourage you to get outside the box with your thinking before you finalize your selection.

Things to consider

Do you want your backsplash to blend or be a contrast to your kitchen countertops? Do you want your backsplash to stand out or fade into the background? Do you want a patterned tile or something plain and simple? Do you want your backsplash to cover the areas between the lower and upper cabinets or is there an opportunity for more coverage or design?

Get inspired

Take a look at our website and see our work to get some ideas. Browse our tile catalog on our website to look at products. Visit our Pinterest page to get some inspiration.

If you’re interested in dressing up your kitchen by adding a tasteful backsplash contact us today. Our consultants can assist you in choosing the right design for your kitchen.

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.

How to Pick Hardware for Your Cabinets

November 15, 2019 by iccfloors Leave a Comment

You have begun your kitchen remodel, and every design element has fallen into place. Your new countertops look amazing with your new floors that complement your cabinet selection. But all of a sudden, you realize that you have forgotten to choose your cabinet’s hardware. While it is not the biggest decision, you have been dreading making it. Luckily, you remembered this article, and all of your stress went away – okay, well, maybe not all of it.

The hardware you select for your kitchen cabinets can help complete the overall design; therefore, it can often be a challenging decision for homeowners to make. From modern, sleek pieces to more elaborately-designed pieces, you have a wide selection when it comes to styles. Fortunately, the decision does not need to be difficult. At ICC Home, we strive to make all of your design selections easy. Today, we are going to help you choose the right hardware for your cabinets with six easy steps. Let’s get started!

Where There Is a Design, There Is a Way

When you are designing your kitchen, it is important to keep within a design theme. If you do, it will help you make more accurate decisions. For example, if you have a Modern kitchen, you will want to look more toward Modern hardware, especially if your cabinets have clean lines. Ideally, you want to complement the overall design theme you have chosen by selecting cabinet hardware within its design family.

The Finishing Touch

Another great tip to remember is that all finishes should match within your kitchen. For example, if you have a stainless steel faucet, you would want to select stainless steel hardware.

Color Me Inspired

If you do not decide to match your kitchen’s finishes, your kitchen cabinet’s colors should help you decide on a color. For example, if you have gray cabinets, you may decide to go with black hardware since it is within the same color family.

Don’t Go Overboard

A lot of homeowners are incorporating the trend of mixing metals; however, it is important to set a limit for yourself. While this may currently be a trend, you want to try creating a kitchen design that is timeless. For example, if you have stainless steel appliances, you may want to opt for hardware that complements stainless steel rather than opposes it.

Quality, Quality, Quality

The most inexpensive option is not always the best option, especially when it comes to hardware. When designing your kitchen, you will want to choose quality pieces that will last a lifetime. They may have more of a price tag, but they will be able to stand up against daily tasks.

Mix and Match

When deciding whether to choose a knob or a pull, you can explore the idea of mixing and matching the two throughout your kitchen. Pulls can be more useful for areas that you frequently use, whereas knobs can hold a lot of decorative potential.

A Realm of Possibilities

Designing a space is your chance to express yourself and your creativity. It can always be fun to try something new and bold. Explore your options before you commit to the simplest design.

If you are feeling overwhelmed, ICC Home has you covered. We have a beautiful showroom filled with inspiring room scenes to help you during the design process. Plus, we have expert designers ready to answer any and all of your questions. Do not hesitate; visit us today to make all of your dreams a reality.

NoteWorthy Technology Trends in Kitchen & Bath

October 26, 2019 by iccfloors Leave a Comment

With technology ever-changing and continually improving, we find an incredible amount of technological advancements in the average American household. In fact, we see an increase in smart homes that feature unreal technological developments to make everyday tasks a little simpler. In particular, we see these developments in the kitchen and bath world. Today, we are going to take a close look at those kitchen and bath technology trends.

Veil Lighting

Veil lighting adds instant elegance to your bathroom landscape. It simply lines an object (i.e., a bathtub or bathroom mirror) with gorgeous, soft lighting, giving a space warmth and dimension. Additionally, it provides the added benefits of voice activation, motion control, and color that mimics the temperature to help promote sleep and wellness.

Wi-Fi Enabled Kitchen Appliances

With Wi-Fi enabled kitchen appliances, you now have the ability to multi-task during meal prep. From speedy oven cleaning in under ten minutes to cooking meals at different temperatures, you can make cooking easier than ever. Plus, there are a wide variety of products that feature Wi-Fi capabilities, meaning you can start dinner right from your tablet.

Pop-up Power Outlets

You can finally have a smooth, uninterrupted backsplash design with a pop-up power outlet. These discrete outlets are able to be utilized at a moment’s notice and put away for later use. They are incredibly sleek and stylish, giving kitchens a clean look.

Heated Floors

Nothing says luxury quite like heated floors in your bathroom. Where tile floors can typically be cold to the touch, heated floors provide an alternative elegant and warm feel for homeowners.

Steam Showers

Steam showers have become all the rage in luxurious bathrooms and for a good reason. They give homeowners a chance to unwind and relax with warm steam in the comfort of their own home. In fact, they bring the tranquil feel of a spa right to your bathroom design.

Digital Showers

Did you ever imagine a day where an electronic screen would be in your shower? With digital shower controls, you can use a variety of different functions from the comfort of your shower. From the ability to change the water pressure to adjusting the water’s temperature, digital shower controls offer homeowners a sleek and luxurious shower.

Which trend was your favorite? Do you foresee any new trends coming to the market in 2020? Let us know your thoughts below in the comment section.