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7 Delightful Tile Options For A Dream Bathroom

Is your master bathroom looking and feeling drab? Is your guest bathroom less than inviting? Is your powder room in need of a touch up? New bathroom cabinetry can work wonders for updating a dreary and dated space, but for an extra punch of style, you’ll need to install flooring and backsplash tile. Here are a few delightful tile options for a dream bathroom. Beyond basic, these fun and fabulous tiles can add a touch of whimsy to your next remodeling project.

Arabesco Carrera Hexagon

This unique, marble tile features a dainty hexagon pattern and is honed in a 12” x 12” mesh for easy installation. Perfect for floors and walls, Arabesco Carrera Hexagon tile has a medium sheen, and random variation in tone ranging from gray to white.

Water Jet Glass Tile in Ornamental Bright White

These handmade, glass mosaic tiles are uncommonly stylish, thanks to their unique arabesque shape and bright white, glossy sheen. Pair them with contrasting grout for extra pop.

Arabesco Carrara with Black Marble Basket Weave

This option features the whites and grays of classic Carrara paired with beautiful black accents in a basket weave pattern. Backed by mesh, this tile is easy to install on floors and walls, and can make a one-of-a-kind statement in a dream bathroom.

Carrara White Basket Weave Pattern

Carrara White Basket Weave marble mosaic tile has frosty white and subtle gray hues in a decorative pattern. This selection comes perfectly arranged on pre-mounted sheets for easy installation as a floor or backsplash, and has a polished, smooth finish.

Arabesco Carrara Herringbone

These marble mosaic tiles have a playful herringbone pattern and a honed finish. The soft white background color and iconic gray swirls make Arabesco Carrara Herringbone an ideal choice for any dream bathroom.

Black and White Pebbled

This mosaic tile option consists of mesh-backed marble pebbles in varying natural tones of white, gray, cream and black swirled together in perfect harmony. Truly delightful and unique, Black and White Pebbled tile are anything but basic.

Colorful Cristezza Club Glass

If your idea of delightful means lots of bright and bold color, look no further than Cristezza Club Glass Tile for your dream bathroom backsplash. Cristezza Club Glass Tile comes in a variety of whimsical colors, like teal, ruby red, baby blue, and more. Visit Willow Lane Cabinetry to browse our complete selection of flooring and backsplash tile.

Welcome to Willow Lane Cabinetry — the #1 place to buy affordable, semi-custom cabinets online! Let us help you create the kitchen, home office, home bar, laundry room, TV room, or bath of your dreams with our 100% free room design tool. We offer all wood cabinetry, fully assembled and delivered for free. Plus all the accessories you need to complete your remodel. Visit our website to see our products today!

The 6 Features Of A Modern Kitchen Island

You may think that all kitchen islands are the same but there are a few features that differentiate one style from the next. From traditional to contemporary, islands create a statement and help support the aesthetic and theme of the kitchen.

Let’s take a look specifically at the modern kitchen island and what clear characteristics make it distinct.

Not all 90-degree angles.

One trait that is becoming dominant in the modern kitchen island is curved or rounded edges. This shape surely stands out amongst a sea of hard corners and is a statement we only see in more modern or contemporary kitchens.

While their unique look is surely something to be acknowledged, curved kitchen islands also offer exclusive functionality. The elimination of harsh corners means less accidents and their rounded shape opens up more space for sitting around the island.

Modern means more.

One noteworthy differentiator of the modern kitchen island is its demand for more. While traditional kitchen islands provided a place for your oven or extra storage, modern kitchen islands include features like a wine storage cabinet. These “add ons” to your traditional cabinets offer allure and a taste of luxury, while also giving way to the evolving needs of today’s homeowner.

Unconventional countertops.

A lot of time has passed since granite countertops were the gold standard. Since then, quartz has become the material of choice for kitchen countertops. But along with the popularity of this engineered stone, we’ve seen a rise in unconventional materials like butcher block, concrete, and stainless steel.

Many modern and contemporary kitchens are opting for these outside-of-the-box options and it is not uncommon to see a concrete or stainless steel countertop on a modern kitchen island.

Designated seating.

Meals are much more casual than they were in the past. It’s no longer considered poor manners to eat breakfast or dinner right at the kitchen counter. Because of this trend, we are seeing that kitchen islands are often the designated seating area for modern families.

As we move away from the dining room table and into the kitchen, the island becomes prime seating space and the focus shifts to making it accommodating for meal time.

Sleek cabinet styles.

There used to be a desire for intricate details on kitchen cabinets, which is why styles like the raised panel were so popular. But in modern and contemporary kitchens, sleek cabinets are the preference. There is an obvious draw toward shaker and slab cabinets and they have quickly become the cabinet style of choice for modern kitchen islands.

Modern function meets modern features.

When it comes to modern kitchen islands, it’s not all about the look. A test of functionality can also determine whether or not an island is modern or not. We look for soft-close doors and drawers, adjustable shelves, and a frameless design for maximum storage space. It’s not just about what you can see from the outside, it’s important to take a look inside to truly see what a modern kitchen island can offer.

The 5 Best Trees For Growing Indoors

Nothing livens up the home like a large indoor tree. Living greenery adds a touch of natural beauty and can give your TV room, home office, master bath, or kitchen a big style boost. With the right amount of light and water, an indoor tree can make any space feel warm and welcoming. Here are some of the best trees for growing indoors.

Fiddle Leaf Fig

As the name implies, this popular indoor tree has broad, glossy green, fiddle-shaped leaves that fill an empty corner like no other. Refined in shape, and less fussy than most indoor trees, the Fiddle Leaf Fig likes moderate to bright light, and is perfect for placing beside French or sliding glass doors in the kitchen. Once acclimated and with proper care, it can grow to maximum height of ten feet, making it a lovely compliment to tall kitchen cabinets.

Weeping Fig

Another popular choice, the Weeping Fig has graceful branches that slightly bend under the weight of a mass of small, variegated, teardrop-shaped leaves. This indoor tree has multiple trunks for added visual interest. It prefers bright, indirect light and makes a lovely addition to a home office or TV room. This tree tends to drop leaves, so be sure to place it somewhere with easy to sweep wood or tile flooring.

Areca Palm

This refined tree is easy to grow indoors, and has feathery green fronds that arch and bow. Lush and tropical, it does well in bright spaces and can grow up to eight feet tall indoors. The Areca Palm (also known as Butterfly or Golden Cane Palm) looks right at home in contemporary kitchens with all wood cabinetry. It can also make a stunning statement in a spa master bathroom, since it thrives in warm, moist environments.

Rubber Tree

The Rubber Tree has big, glossy leaves that range from dark green to bronze. It prefers bright yet indirect light and mild pruning. This one takes a little more care than most and can grow to a massive 50 feet, so it’s best to start with a small, immature plant when growing and training indoors. But if you want beautiful greenery that will compliment tall kitchen cabinets, the Rubber Tree is an excellent choice.

Money Tree

This sturdy tree has multiple, intertwined trunks and a slender profile, making it a great choice for small spaces. Since it prefers bright light and moist soil, the Money Tree (also known as an Indoor Bonsai) is suitable for growing in the bathroom or just about anywhere with a sunny window nearby. Exotic and bold, it also works well in a home office.

How To Design An Open Concept Kitchen With Mid-Century Modern Style

The distinctive characteristics of the 1930s to 1960s have become a popular design choice for homeowners. The functional and organic elements from this time period have found their way into the 21^st century. Do you love clean lines, soft curves, and minimalism? If so, consider designing your open concept kitchen with mid-century modern style. Here’s the inspiration you need to bring this style to life in your home.

Choose contemporary kitchen cabinets with natural or rustic elements.

The right contemporary kitchen cabinets for your mid-century inspiration should be sleek and modern, but also have natural or rustic elements. This balance is true to the time period and will help set the tone in your open concept kitchen.

When it comes to kitchen cabinet finishes, you could easily go with dark or light depending on the color scheme you decide on. For a white and light finish, Willow Lane Cabinetry’s Urban White is the perfect pick with its high gloss finish and frameless design. If you prefer the look of dark cabinets, another great style from Willow Lane Cabinetry is the Salem Cobblestone. This cabinetry collection features a rich, dark grey stain and recessed door style that is both timeless and modern.

Mix in some antique elements to bring the theme together.

You will find new furniture designed in similar style to the 1930s and 1960s, but if you can get your hands on some antique pieces, it can really authenticate your open concept kitchen’s theme. From retro breakfast bar stools to light fixtures, there are plenty of ways to bring a bit of the past into your modern home. Find a nearby estate sale or hit up your local thrift shop to browse for some antique décor or furnishings for your kitchen remodel.

Warm things up with some strategically placed color.

With its minimalistic vibe and functional foundation, mid-century style tends to feature more neutral color schemes with predominately white or woodsy elements. But color is an important part of a mid-century kitchen, as one of its greatest appeals is its ability to warm up a sleeker and modern aesthetic. Whether it’s colored cabinets or a bright backsplash, pick a color to add some welcoming warmth to your open concept kitchen.

Keep clutter under control to maintain minimalism in your mid-century modern kitchen.

A mid-century modern kitchen is not the place for knick-knacks or tchotchkes. Countertops should be kept clear and any kitchen supplies should be tucked away behind cabinet doors. Storage is always a priority in a minimalistic or modern home. Make sure your kitchen is prepared to keep clutter under control by installing inside cabinet accessories. If you have a lofty pantry space, it can serve as the perfect storage solution, but for those relying solely on kitchen cabinets, don’t worry. It is possible to have a clutter free kitchen by optimizing the space in both your base and wall cabinets. Just give every item an assigned space and stay committed to a cleanup routine.

The 3 Benefits of Having a Home Office

Studies have shown working from home leads to greater productivity and job satisfaction. Not only does it increase morale, but it also reduces stress—imagine not having to dress up or commute back and forth everyday—and improves job retention rates. And it’s not only good for employees. Companies that allow people to work from home can save thousands of dollars each month per employee. Obviously, there are less office expenses, but did you know remote workers statistically take fewer vacation and sick days? It’s true!

Sounds like a great situation, doesn’t it? But first, you need a home office. And no, your kitchen island won’t cut it. Without a designated home office, you wont even have the possibility of working from home, and the above-mentioned perks that come along with it. Here are just a few more of the many benefits of having a home office.

Finding Balance Between Home And Office

We mentioned productivity earlier, and the luxury of being able to jump right into your workday rather than wasting time on travel. And while it’s nice to stay in your PJs all day, you do need to strike a balance between work and home to be successful. Having a designated “home office” is the perfect compromise, as the name implies. Sure, you can stroll down to the kitchen island for a cup of coffee or to throw a load of laundry in the washer, but when you’re in your home office, it’s all business.

A Quiet Place To Work While The Kids Are Home For Summer

When the kids are at school, it’s easy to be productive. But when the kids are home on summer break, things can get a lot more challenging. The house isn’t as quiet as it used to be, and there are many more distractions that can pull you away from your deadlines. Having a home office gives you a quiet place to call your own. When the door is shut, the family knows you’re on work time and should not be disturbed. Of course, working from home also gives you a bit more freedom to set your own hours and enjoy some family fun in the sun!

An Atmosphere That Sparks Creativity And Inspires Ideas

Most large offices are packed with wall-to-wall cubicles and feature generic décor that does little to inspire. On the other hand, a home office is your own personal space, where you are free to design a room that sparks creativity and inspiration. Imagine energetic orange or soothing blue walls paired with espresso cabinets, and not a single cubicle in sight. What could be better?

Earth Day Everyday: Easy Ways To Make Your Home More Energy Efficient

Most of us want to stop wasting money. We also want to save the environment. When your home becomes more energy efficient, everyone wins. In celebration of Earth Day, take a look at these ways to make your home more energy efficient and try implementing at least one by the end of the month. You’ll be surprised how a simple swap or integration of technology can transform the way you consume energy in your home.

Switch outdated appliances for new, energy-efficient models.

Whether it’s the mini-fridge in your home bar or your washer and dryer, older appliances could be hiking up your electricity bill and wasting energy. When you replace these machines with newer models, you get better functionality, sleeker features, and energy-saving options. That old double wall oven cabinet may be your favorite appliance, but it could also be the cause of your over-the-top electricity bill.

Small appliances can also be to blame, so look out for slow cookers, microwaves and other small appliances that have adopted smart technology. By using less and doing more, the appliances of the future check all of the boxes

Let the apps take control of your home.

Even with great intention, humans make mistakes. So it’s only natural that you leave the lights on sometimes or forget to turn the air up when you go out of town for the weekend. Smart homes eliminate room for human error by relying on technology to take control. Whether it’s turning off your lights or adjusting your air conditioner, you can now power your home through your phone thanks to apps and smart home technology.

Light can lead the way.

One of the easiest swaps you can make on the journey to a more energy-efficient home is your lighting. Rather than opting for traditional incandescent blubs, consider better lighting choices that last longer and use alternative energy to illuminate your home. These should be your bulb of choice whenever possible. Also be cognizant of lights in your wine storage cabinet or under wall cabinets. We sometimes forget about these “background” lights and leave them on unintentionally.

You may even want to consider lights that are triggered by motion. They can detect when someone has walked into the room, which is a nice welcome, and can also eliminate lights being left on unnecessarily.

One final way to save energy with lighting is finding out how to install a dimmer switch. Doing so allows you to control the amount of light and energy used to illuminate one room from the other.

Monitor your usage and adjust accordingly.

If you already have the new appliances and think your home has a green stamp of approval, you can find out for sure with the right energy-monitoring tool. Some utility companies can now provide you with insights on your monthly bill, so definitely take advantage of these features if they are offered. As an alternative, you can also invest in one of the tech tools that monitor energy usage by appliance. It never hurts to give your home a check up, even if you’re pretty sure that your energy levels are good.

2019 Home Design Trends We Love For Spring

The spring of 2019 has officially sprung, and most homeowners are going over their home renovation checklist in anticipation of sunnier days ahead. Whether you’re considering a big remodel or just a little sprucing, here are the design trends we love for this splendid season.

Tile Backsplash Accent Walls
While shiplap was all the rage last spring, this year, tile accent walls are popping up in fashion-forward homes. From stunning patterns like floor to ceiling herringbone marble, to quirky and colorful glass subway tile, backsplash tile is an affordable and eye-catching way to bring big style to an otherwise bland wall.

Wood-Look Flooring

Harwood floors are a staple of modern kitchen design. While aesthetically charming and a classic choice, wood flooring is susceptible to dents, scratches, and water damage. Wood-look tile flooring, on the other hand, offers the warmth and beauty of hardwood without the hassle. Durable and impervious to water, it’s the smart and trendy choice for contemporary kitchens and bathrooms this year.

Gray and Cream Cabinets
According to the Houzz Kitchen Report, white is still the top choice for all wood cabinetry. With that said, there are many different shades of white, and this spring, homeowners are opting for softer, creamier hues and gray tones along with bright white in the kitchen. Gray and cream-colored cabinets look lovely when paired with warm wood cabinetry on a kitchen island and natural stone countertops.

Quartzite Countertops
Speaking of natural stone countertops, Quartzite is a unique alternative to ever-popular granite countertops. Featuring a natural variation in color and pattern, this highly durable, natural stone looks like marble but won’t etch like marble. It’s also scratch, heat and stain resistant.

Custom Drawer Inserts

Modern kitchen design is all about form and function. Inside cabinet accessories can help you create a more organized kitchen this spring. This includes a variety of custom drawer inserts, from wood spice trays and trimmable knife blocks, to a wood drawer peg system for instant storage.

All Wood Bath Cabinetry
When in comes to bath vanities, all wood cabinetry is the ultimate choice this spring. From solid maple to birch, warm wood finishes set the tone for an inviting guest bathroom or soothing master bath. Add oil rubbed bronze, shiny chrome, or satin nickel bath hardware to complete the contemporary look.

Welcome to Willow Lane Cabinetry — the #1 place to buy affordable, semi-custom cabinets online! Let us help you create the kitchen, home office, home bar, laundry room, TV room, or bath of your dreams with our 100% free room design tool. We offer all wood cabinetry, fully assembled and delivered for free. Plus all the accessories you need to complete your remodel. Visit our website to see our products today!

5 Surprising Things You Didn’t Know About Luxury Vinyl Flooring

Vinyl flooring has experienced the ultimate glow up since its inception in the 1930s. Now featuring depth and texture that gives it a much more natural look, luxury vinyl also boasts a newfound resilience that can’t be beat.

Whether you’re looking for a modern flooring material that will complement your contemporary cabinets or something that will stand strong against the little humans in your life, luxury vinyl flooring might be your match.

Forget what you think you know about luxury vinyl flooring, and learn a few surprising facts about LVF.

Most people can’t tell the difference between luxury vinyl flooring and their natural counterparts.

The vinyl that our grandparents had in their kitchens back in the 1960s and 70s were, without doubt, vinyl. Let’s just say the kitchen wall cabinets were not the first things you noticed when you walked in the front door. You could spot that vinyl from a mile away.

But today’s luxury vinyl flooring is so aesthetically similar to natural wood or tile, that you could walk right on them without ever being the wiser.

LVF is very affordable.

People are shocked when comparing the price of LVF to natural hardwood flooring or ceramic tile. For such a similar product, it is really amazing how cost effective this selection is. Better more, quality is not compromised with this price drop.

This flooring material is extremely durable.

It is often thought that a less expensive product is inferior. With luxury vinyl flooring, that is not the case. This material is more affordable but offers the same kind of quality you would expect from the real deal. In some cases, it is even superior. Natural hardwood flooring and ceramic tile have their weaknesses, like being susceptible to scratches and chips. Since LVF is powered by man-made technology, it eliminates those nuisances and others.

LVF is perfect for kitchens and bathrooms because it is especially water-resistant.

We know that people pick LVF for its looks, price, and durability — but did you know that it is also highly water-resistant? This characteristic is what catapults it from a good flooring option to a great one, especially when choosing flooring for a kitchen or bathroom where spills and splashes are the norm.

LVF comes in three different styles.

When shopping for LVF, you will find three varieties: sheet vinyl, vinyl tiles, and vinyl planks. Sheet vinyl comes in rolls and is the easiest to install. Vinyl tiles offer more freedom, so you can install them in any way you prefer, such as horizontal or diagonal. Some varieties can even be grouted for a more realistic look. Then lastly, you have vinyl planks, which are meant to mimic wood. Wood-look vinyl is a popular choice for those who love the look of hardwood but want something more durable and affordable for their home.

Welcome to Willow Lane Cabinetry — the #1 place to buy affordable, semi-custom cabinets online! Let us help you create the kitchen, home office, home bar, laundry room, TV room, or bath of your dreams with our 100% free room design tool. We offer solid wood cabinetry, fully assembled and delivered for free. Plus all the accessories you need to complete your remodel. Visit our website to see our products today!

How To Design A Stylish Yet Functional Kitchen For Foodies

If you’re like most of us, you love to eat! But do you have what it takes to call yourself a Foodie? Merriam-Webster defines a Foodie as, “a person having an avid interest in the latest food fads.” It’s not enough just to enjoy eating good food. A true Foodie also enjoys cooking and isn’t afraid to try something new, whether it’s the latest dessert trend on Pinterest or a challenging gourmet classic like Julia Child’s Beef Bourguignon. If you consider yourself a Foodie, you need a contemporary kitchen that can accommodate your passion and drive as a home chef. Here, well show you how to design a stylish yet functional kitchen for a true Foodie like you!

First, design a stylish, comfortable space that flows. As a home chef, you need a clear path from the refrigerator to the sink, stove, and your kitchen island countertop. Instead of a closed room with a traditional work triangle layout, many contemporary homes feature an open concept kitchen with several zones for meal prep. Before you begin your kitchen remodel, consider the type of space you have and the way you like to work in the kitchen. Do you prefer to be alone or do you like to delegate tasks to your spouse and a handful of little sous-chefs? Make sure you have plenty of room to spread out with limited obstructions, and try to incorporate as much countertop space and solid wood cabinetry as your room will allow. Willow Lane Cabinetry offers a free online kitchen and room design service to help with your stylish yet functional new kitchen layout.

Here are a few dream features you may want to include in a kitchen fit for a Foodie:

Durable, easy to clean countertops
A large refrigerator and freezer
A convection oven
A gas range or electric cooktop
A large kitchen island
Solid wood cabinetry
A beautiful tile backsplash
A deep kitchen sink
Water-resistant flooring
A kitchen hood
A walk-in pantry

Next, add those custom details that take your kitchen to the next level. Inside cabinet accessories help to create a functional, organized kitchen that any Foodie would crave. Keep cookware at the ready with a two-tiered chrome organizer that fits neatly within a base cabinet. Make sure your spices are easily accessible near the stove by installing a door-mounted spice rack in your solid wood cabinetry. Keep a chef’s most important tools safely tucked away in a drawer with a trimmable knife block made from maple hardwood. Make baking a breeze with a heavy-duty mixer lift. Install these and other inside cabinet accessories from Willow Lane Cabinetry, and enjoy your Foodie status in your dream kitchen.

Welcome to Willow Lane Cabinetry — the #1 place to buy affordable, semi-custom cabinets online! Let us help you create the kitchen, home office, home bar, laundry room, TV room, or bath of your dreams with our 100% free room design tool. We offer solid wood cabinetry, fully assembled and delivered for free. Plus all the accessories you need to complete your remodel. Visit

Tips For Choosing A Wall Color That Complements Your Solid Wood Cabinetry And Flooring

Wall color is an extremely powerful aspect of any room design. It sets the tone and fills the space with a unique style and ambience — depending on the shades you choose. Color can also have a profound impact on your mood. That is why it is so important to choose wisely when settling on a wall shade that will complement your solid wood cabinetry, flooring, furniture and decor. To ensure you make a fantastic decision for your home, here are some tips to consider when picking out a paint color.

Choose a color scheme inspired by your existing décor.

If your flooring and furnishings are somewhat neutral, you may be able to add some brighter colors to your walls. For example, white cabinetry paired with cheerful yellow or blue walls. However, if you already have a strong color scheme going, including your rugs, throw pillows, lamps or other décor, it is smart to maintain this color scheme.

But beware — too much of one color can create an overpowering, monochromatic look that can quickly become exhausting to live with. If you want to continue with your color palette but don’t want it to be too overwhelming, utilizing a lighter shade of the same hue might be a better alternative.

Opt for white.

When in doubt, pick out a nice eggshell white shade. This neutral will go with almost anything and is easy to paint over when you find a shade you’re truly excited about. If white is too bland for your tastes, pale gray or creamy beige will also do the trick. Neutral walls create a serene, soothing space, and are the ideal choice for creating a seamless look in open concept kitchens.

Match undertones.

Try examining your solid wood cabinetry, flooring, and furniture for underlying tones. Similar materials often contain similar neutral undertones. Painting your walls with one of these neutrals will tie all aspects together. It also allows you to get creative with your decorating by adding vibrant pops of color that can be easily changed with the seasons.

Use dark colors cautiously.

Deep hues can be beautiful on paper and offer an elegant timeless look. However, once these dark shades are on your walls, it might feel like you’ve moved into a small, underground hideaway. Dark shades and jewel tones can be stunning — but they are usually much too overpowering for an entire room and can make a space feel cramped. Instead, use dark shades in larger rooms or for an accent wall.

Be consistent.

Once you’ve chosen a color you like that’s suitable for the room you’re painting, try to stick to similar colors when you paint other rooms in your house. It’s fun to give each room its own character, but your whole home will flow better if your rooms are somewhat cohesive and complimentary in tone. For a lesson on basic color theory, click here.

Continue with the theme.

If you have a home focused around a specific theme, such as farmhouse chic or tropical oasis, you should opt for colors that embrace your current atmosphere. It’s likely your furniture, cabinetry, flooring and existing decor coincide with this theme, so it’s important to continue with colors that you believe will flatter your current style.

Welcome to Willow Lane Cabinetry — the #1 place to buy affordable, semi-custom cabinets online! Let us help you create the kitchen, home office, home bar, laundry room, TV room, or bath of your dreams with our 100% free room design tool. We offer solid wood cabinetry, fully assembled and delivered for free. Plus all the accessories you need to complete your remodel. Visit our website to see our products today!