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How To Design A Clean And Contemporary Bathroom

Do you often find yourself flipping through the pages of your favorite home magazine in search of contemporary bathroom ideas? Have you ever been envious of the final result when watching a bathroom remodel on television? Do you sometimes spend hours scrolling through Pinterest and pinning solid wood cabinetry to your “Dream Bathroom” board? Do you look at your dated bathroom and dream about giving your space a modern makeover? If you answered, “Yes” to any of these questions, it’s time to make a change! Here, we’ll teach you how to design a clean and contemporary bathroom in 2019.

Minimalism In Mind

The key to designing a clean and contemporary bathroom is to keep clutter to a minimum. This means eliminating frilly details and fussy décor, and having plenty of storage space in the form of baskets, bins and bathroom cabinets. Speaking of bathroom cabinets, Shaker solid wood cabinetry features clean lines that suit an up-to-date theme, especially when paired with contemporary knobs, pulls, and bath hardware in satin nickel or polished chrome.

Contemporary Colors

A contemporary color scheme is probably more varied than you might think. From deep jewel tones and bright hues to monochromatic neutrals and subdued shades taken straight from nature, it’s really anything goes. For inspiration, all the major paint companies have released their picks for the colors that are on point this year, including soft gray Metropolitan by Benjamin Moore, bold Blueprint by Behr, and warm Cavern Clay by Sherwin Williams.

Earthy Elements

Contemporary design was once considered cold and slick, but not anymore. Current trends strike a welcome balance by adding in warm, earthy elements while still opting for simplicity. Think textural bamboo blinds, woven baskets, jute area rugs, glass shower doors, natural stone countertops, solid wood cabinetry, and tropical houseplants for a pop of green.

Tile Trends

Contemporary design is all about creating visual flow. Tile is the ultimate choice for flooring and backsplash walls in a bathroom. Aesthetically, it helps to create a soothing, seamless space. It also adds modern style, whether you opt for trendy wood look tile, sophisticated marble, or classic subway tile with a current twist. Undoubtedly stunning, tile is also a practical choice. It is easy to clean, and also impervious to water — something you definitely need to consider when updating a bathroom.

If you’re tired of wistfully looking at magazine pages and TV home makeovers while dealing with an outdated bathroom, why not do something about it? Contact Willow Lane Cabinetry and find out how we can help bring your new bathroom to life!

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!

5 Houseplants That Improve Your Home’s Air Quality

Kitchen hoods are a must-have for eliminating cooking odors, and can help to clean the air in an open concept kitchen. But what about those nasty VOCs (volatile organic chemicals) swirling around our homes? According to the EPA (United States Environmental Protection Agency), VOCs are potentially harmful gasses that can be emitted from a number of household sources, from the paint on our walls to the cleaning products we use on a daily basis. Thankfully, there is a simple, green solution to further help improve indoor air quality — houseplants! These air-purifying plants help to create a healthier environment for you and your family, and can add a touch of natural beauty to your home as well!

English Ivy

This elegant houseplant has trailing (and climbing) foliage in varying shades of green. There are several varieties to pick from, but all have been proven effective in helping to clear the air of VOCs like benzene, formaldehyde, xylene and toluene. Studies also show English Ivy can help reduce mold spores in the home. English Ivy prefers full or part sun, and can be propagated from stem cuttings.

Dracaena

Ever popular, this houseplant is known for its narrow, upright foliage that features variegated shades of green. Dracaena is low maintenance and perfect for containers. It likes indirect sunlight and can grow anywhere from one to 20 feet tall, making it perfect for your TV room cabinetry shelves or a large corner of your open concept kitchen. According to the famous NASA Clean Air Study, Dracaena is one of the best plants for removing formaldehyde from the air, as well as benzene, trichloroethylene, xylene, and other VOCs.

Gerbera Daisy

This spring favorite has big blossoms in bright, beautiful colors, including red, yellow, pink, white, orange, or purple! They grow well in containers and would make a lovely centerpiece for a kitchen table. Gerbera Daisies need lots of sunshine and can grow to be a foot tall or more. Unlike other plants, Gerbera Daisies continue to release oxygen throughout the night and can help improve sleep when placed in a bedroom.

Peace Lily

This tropical plant thrives in low light and can help remove benzene, trichloroethylene, formaldehyde, and other pollutants. It’s easy to care for and requires little light or water to thrive. Best of all, the Peace Lily has beautiful white flowers and shiny green leaves, making it a lovely and showy addition to the home.

Snake Plant

This air purifying houseplant has tall, dramatic foliage. According to the aforementioned NASA study, the Snake Plant absorbs formaldehyde, nitrogen oxide, benzene, xylene, and trichloroethylene. It likes lots of bright light and humidity, making it well suited for placement in a sunny bathroom window.

While these plants can help purify the air in your home, they can also be toxic, so be sure to keep them away from children and pets.

2 Major Ways Your Home Affects Your Mood (And What You Can Do About It)

Your home is a reflection of your personal style, and should be your favorite place to spend time. Whether you are entertaining in your open concept kitchen, working in your home office, or curling up in your comfortable bed at the end of a long day, the choices you make when designing a home are more than just purely aesthetic. No doubt, the state of your home’s interior can also have a positive or negative affect on your mood. Here, we’ll discuss why, and what you can do to make your home a happier place — from solid wood cabinetry (and other storage solutions) to the paint colors you choose.

Color

Psychologists (and interior decorators) have long believed color can affect your mood. In the kitchen, white creates a sense of freshness and yellow promotes warmth and happiness. Yellow also stimulates the appetite, making it a great wall color choice for aspiring home chefs. In fact, yellow kitchens are so popular; they can actually increase the value of your home! Opt for creamy butter or wheat tones on the walls, paired with crisp white cabinets, for the perfect kitchen mix.

If you have an open concept kitchen, yellow hues are generally neutral enough to also carry throughout the rest of the home. Of course, personal preference should also come into play. If you’re not a fan of yellow, you could opt for shades of white, brown, or gray to create a seamless, soothing color scheme from room to room.

Colors like red and orange are energetic and exciting, but can also cause agitation when overdone. With that said, they can have a dramatic impact when used sparingly, in bold, decorative pops. Think throw pillows in the TV room or small appliances in the kitchen. Cool shades of blue, purple, and green are perfect for the bedroom or TV room, because they are calming and promote relaxation.

Clutter

Like color, clutter can have a profound affect on your mood. In fact, a messy home doesn’t just add to our stress and anxiety levels — there is also a link between clutter and depression. For a happier home, here are some tips to get the clutter under control:

Sort through your home, and discard or donate anything adding to the mess.

Have a basket for incoming bills and mail, file important papers immediately, and shred or recycle the rest.

Install inside cabinet accessories in the kitchen for better organization.

Install solid wood cabinetry for storing necessary items behind closed doors.

Don’t let dishes pile up in the kitchen sink or on countertops.

Make your bed immediately after you wake up each day.

Stay on top of cleaning by breaking chores into smaller, more manageable daily tasks, or make chores more fun with these suggestions.

Simple Yet Stunning Details To Include In Your Rustic Bathroom Renovation

We can’t get enough of the rustic bathroom. This theme is luxury spa meets winter cabin retreat, resulting in a tranquil space that feels completely one with nature. If you’re considering this theme for your bathroom renovation, don’t miss these simple yet stunning details you’ll certainly want to include. From a breathtaking bathtub to wooden beams that bring it all together, we’ve got every corner covered.

Use wood or wood-look tiles as a backsplash or accent wall.

Nothing says rustic more than wood and there are so many simple ways to incorporate this natural material into your bathroom. As an alternative to stone or glass tile, wood panels make for a beautiful accent wall. They can also be used to cover a ceiling or frame a doorway. These unexpected touches will really give your guest or master bath that rustic feel. Of course, if you want to keep your bathroom easy to clean and disinfect, opt for wood-look tile as a realistic and water-resistant alternative for both walls and flooring.

Solid wood cabinetry with a natural finish helps you build a solid foundation.

Bathroom vanity cabinets are obviously a huge part of a bathroom renovation and really set the tone for the room’s theme. If wood is a material you definitely want but you’re not keen on paneling, opt for bathroom cabinets in a medium-toned, natural finish or glaze. This will allow you to achieve that rustic wood look in a more conventional way. Browse your options of bathroom vanity cabinets from Willow Lane Cabinetry here.

Opt for a freestanding bathtub for that farmhouse feel.

When you walk into a bathroom and see a freestanding soaking tub, you’re instantly transported back to an earlier time. Choose this bathtub style in your rustic bathroom and achieve that antiquated elegance and farmhouse feel.

Small touches make a big splash in a rustic bathroom.

From rubbed bronze pulls on the doors of your bathroom cabinets to the soft glow of candles placed around the room, the small touches really count when designing your rustic bathroom. Take a minute to focus in on the little details like hardware and décor, so that your renovation doesn’t fall short from a lack of accessories.

Robe hooks will make your bathroom more relaxed.

Rather than your traditional towel bar, a row of robe hooks helps in creating that laid back atmosphere that is essential with a rustic theme. This simple swap will make the room appear more welcoming and relaxed.

Stay warm all year long with a bathroom fireplace.

A bathroom fireplace is a beautiful addition to a rustic bathroom. It reminds you of the warm comfort found in a winter cabin and invites you to stay and unwind. Just imagine dipping into your freestanding bathtub with a fireplace just a few feet away. It certainly melts away the winter blues and frosty windows from your mind.

Exposed wooden ceiling beams bring it all together.

Any time you can add elements to your home design that feel truly authentic to the structure, it’s a win in our book. Exposed ceiling beams are one of those things that achieve this perfect authenticity. To bring your rustic theme all together, add wooden beams to create the illusion of an exposed ceiling. If you want a raw, country vibe that is chic and sophisticated, wooden ceiling beams have you covered quite literally.

Chic Details For A Contemporary Coastal Interior

Coastal living is all about sun, sand, salt water, and those cool ocean breezes. So why are so many beach houses oh so dated and dreary? Forget that kitschy nautical décor, cliché Navy blue paint, and ominously dark wood paneling, and take a decorating tip from modern Mother Nature. Here, we’ll offer up some inspiration for designing a contemporary coastal interior that’s serene and simply beautiful — just like the sea.

If your home by the ocean isn’t quite in ship shape, now is the time for a stylish update. Get a jump on the summer season with solid wood cabinetry and chic coastal details. If you aren’t sure how to navigate a home remodeling project, contact Willow Lane Cabinetry and take advantage of our free room design service. The rest is smooth sailing!

Here are some charming details to consider for your coastal interior.

Wood-Look Tile

When living by the ocean, you are sure to track saltwater and sandy footprints indoors. That is why it’s wise to stick with water-resistant, easy to clean tile flooring. While hardwood floors are the epitome of coastal chic, they require a lot of care and maintenance. Get the look without the headache by installing wood-look tile in your open concept kitchen and throughout the home. Click here to browse our beautiful selection of wood-look tile and other flooring options from Willow Lane Cabinetry.

White Kitchen Cabinets

When designing the quintessential contemporary beach house interior, white kitchen cabinets are a must. The clean and simple lines of Shaker cabinet doors look stunning in a crisp white finish, with charming touches like glass front doors, a built-in wine rack, and traditional cup pulls. Pair white kitchen cabinets with a kitchen island in a gray or dark finish for added contrast and a trendy two-tone look.

Natural Stone

A contemporary coastal kitchen brings natural elements from the outdoors in. There is no better way to do this than by installing a natural stone backsplash or countertops in your bath or open concept kitchen. Natural materials for countertops include Quartz, Quartzite and Granite. Featuring unique colors and patterns, natural stone is durable, low-maintenance, and uniquely beautiful. Click here to learn more and to compare our countertop materials.

Coastal-Inspired Colors

Contemporary coastal interiors have a light and airy vibe, with serene and vibrant colors taken straight from the sea. Living Coral, Pantone’s 2019 Color of the Year, is fresh and lively, and evokes the unique beauty of the ocean. It pairs nicely with other coastal-inspired hues like Sea Glass by Benjamin Moore, Interesting Aqua by Sherwin Williams, Sand Pearl by Behr, Seashell Gray by Valspar, and other beachy shades.

Pair painted walls with a well-placed accent wall made from natural stone tile or wood. Charming coastal options include shiplap, board and batten wainscoting, and bead board. Add the finishing touches with sea grass baskets, natural fiber linens and area rugs, canvas or linen widow treatments, plantation shutters, and tasteful beach house décor.

A Brief History Of Subway Tile

You may have noticed that subway tile is becoming more and more prominent these days. From kitchen backsplashes to bathroom floors, this 3-inch by 6-inch rectangle has come a long way from its humble beginnings. Originating in the early 1900s, subway tile was first seen in New York City’s subways. Can you believe it? Subway tile quite literally means subway tile. More than 100 years later and it’s now a popular choice for kitchens and bathrooms all over. But where did subway tile come from and how is it used today? Keep reading to learn a little more of the history of subway tile and why it has remained such a force in home design.

Classic Design

When George C. Heins and Christopher Grant La Farge first designed subway tile, we doubt they imagined the longevity of their creation. But because of its rectangular shape, white glossy finish and thin grout lines, subway tile has become a classic choice in the 20th century. Some might even dare to call it America’s favorite tile. Either way, it has certainly become a mainstay and a go-to tile choice in both kitchens and bathrooms alike. And its popularity is still on the rise.

Goes Great With All Types of Cabinets

Subway tile is certainly versatile. Its classic style allows it to gel well with all types of cabinets from traditional to more modern. Subway tile has even evolved to include different colors and materials giving it even more range.

While you’ll still see subway tile in its original form, it’s now also available in a variety of colors, materials and finishes. With all of the options to choose from, homeowners can now have the best of both worlds. Are you dreaming of both a subway tile and natural stone backsplash? No need to pick one. You can now have the classic charm of subway tile and the old school beauty of natural stone in the same backsplash.

Easy To Clean

Because of its sleek surface, subway tile has a reputation for being low maintenance. It’s relatively easy to clean, which is definitely another reason for its popularity in kitchens and bathrooms. Whether used as flooring, countertops, walls or backsplashes, subway tile provides an easy surface to maintain. It was first tested in the New York subways after all. At that time, it was chosen because it was hygienic, stain resistant, and offered a bright white reflection that lightened up the underground station. Although subway tile is often found in many different forms today, the original version still holds true to many of these benefits. White subway tile is also used in small spaces to make them feel larger and more open.

Now that you know a little more about subway tile, are you ready to bring this piece of history into your home? Whether for a shower wall in the master bath or a natural stone backsplash in your kitchen, there are so many ways to incorporate this classic favorite into your room design.

5 Healthy And Homemade Grab And Go Snack Ideas

Many of us resolve to eat healthier in the New Year, but our busy schedules sabotage our plans. Let’s face it — when you’re in a rush, it’s just easier to snack on pre-packaged treats that don’t always have the healthiest ingredients. But after a People magazine story started trending last week, highlighting a recent study that linked processed foods to an increased risk of earlier death, you may be second-guessing your snack choices.

Never fear! With some planning and a little preparation ahead of time, you can make healthy, homemade snacks to grab and go the next time hunger strikes. We searched high and low for simple, healthy recipes you can make in your own kitchen. Best of all, many of the ingredients may already be in your refrigerator or solid wood cabinetry. Let’s get started.

No-Bake Granola Bars

We like this healthy recipe for 5-Ingredient Granola Bars from The Minimalist Baker, because it’s as simple as can be. These hearty, satisfying bars contain dates, almonds, rolled oats, peanut butter, and the natural sweetener of your choice (honey, maple syrup or agave nectar) — no baking required! Click here for the recipe.

Healthy Morning Muffins

This easy muffin recipe from Martha Stewart makes the perfect grab and go breakfast or snack. With healthy ingredients like shredded carrots, banana, rolled oats, eggs, extra virgin olive oil, and a pinch of nutmeg from the spice rack in your solid wood cabinetry, you can feel good about having a sweet treat. Click here for the recipe.

Mango Fruit Roll-Ups

If you are craving something chewy, these Mango Fruit Roll-Ups from Just a Taste are made with real fruit and zero added sugar. They are also super simple to make. All you need are a few mangos, a food processor or blender, rimmed baking sheets lined with parchment paper, and an oven. For complete instructions, click here.

Homemade Cheese Crackers

If you prefer a savory snack, check out this recipe for Homemade Cheese Crackers from Chef in Training. Salty and filled with sharp Cheddar, these bite-sized crackers have a kick, thanks to the addition of crushed red pepper flakes. Click here for the recipe.

Baked Veggie Chips

If you crave crunchy snacks and want a tasty and quick way to add more vegetables to your diet, you are going to love this Baked Veggie Chip recipe from Rachel Ray Everyday. This snack packs a healthy punch with parsnips, sweet potatoes, celery root, beets, and a sprinkle of sea salt. For instructions, click here.

5 Reasons Why We Love Gray Kitchen Cabinets

If you have been following design trends, there’s a good chance you’re familiar with the rising popularity of gray kitchen cabinets. You also may be wondering why this cabinet finish has become a favorite of designers and homeowners alike and if you should incorporate this new fashion into your home. The short answer is, yes! Stunning, versatile, and modern — gray kitchen cabinets are here to stay. We’d love to share all of the reasons why we love them, but for now we’ll start with just five.

Gray is the new neutral.

For some time, our idea of a neutral cabinet finish was pretty limited to some variation of white or beige. With the emergence of this new finish also comes a new neutral. Gray provides an interesting alternative to our classic cabinet options. By being both understated and dynamic, we love its neutrality and ability to be bold.

Gray is versatile, complementing a variety of kitchen themes.

You wouldn’t put slick, black cabinets in a traditional kitchen. Many finishes are very specific and usually work well with only certain styles. Gray is one of the exceptions. Whether you have a contemporary or transitional open concept kitchen, or an ultra quaint country theme, gray can gel itself with your unique style and kitchen design.

Take a look at Willow Lane Cabinetry’s Midtown Light Gray Shaker cabinets to see this modern finish shaking up a classic style perfectly.

Gray is great for mixing and matching cabinets.

One trend we love is mixing and matching cabinets. This design works especially well in an open concept kitchen, where you can do your wall cabinets one color and your island another. You can also do one wall of cabinets in a different finish and create an accent wall. Gray allows you to dive into this trend by mixing well with many other finishes.

See how we unexpectedly mixed and matched the Midtown Painted Grey Shaker here.

Gray kitchen cabinets bring out the beauty of stone.

If you love stone countertops like we do, then you will love how gray cabinets provide the perfect complement to their unique beauty. From natural granite to engineered quartz, the splendid shades of gray found in stone countertops is really brought to life beside cabinets with a gray finish.

Find inspiration for your kitchen design with these examples of our Union Gray cabinets with stone countertops.

Gray and stainless steel are the perfect pair.

Whether you dream of a modern design or a kitchen with an industrial feel, stainless steel appliances deliver that sleek look. The shimmer and shine of stainless steel is made only more appealing next to gray cabinets. From lighter shades to deep dark finishes, there are so many possibilities when pairing gray cabinets and stainless steel.

Browse the brilliance of this perfect pair with our Roosevelt Dove Gray cabinets or the Providence Slate Gray cabinets.

How To Host A Fabulous Oscars Party At Home

It’s Hollywood’s biggest night — The Academy Awards. And while you may not be able to walk the red carpet in a designer gown or tux and million-dollar bling, you can host a fabulous Oscars Party at home. From adding a little glitz to your TV room, to creating a sensational spread in your open concept kitchen, we’ll show you how!

The Votes Are In

The first step in planning an Oscars party is creating the guest list. Don’t be afraid to invite family and friends from different social groups, be it neighbors, co-workers, or your closest crew. The Oscars is the perfect time to mix and mingle. Once the votes are in, create an Oscars-worthy invitation, either in print or online.

Comedy or Drama

Be sure to specify the attire for your party. While there is nothing wrong with coming as you are, an Oscars party is the perfect excuse to get all gussied up and add a little drama. Or for a bit of humor, ask your guests to dress as their favorite movie character instead.

Best Supporting Bites

The menu for your Oscars party should fit your theme. If your party is casual, include concession stand items like soft pretzels, hot dogs, and nachos. If your party is fancy, opt for fancy finger foods like Slow-Cooker Party Meatballs and Garlicky Shrimp Cocktail (click here for these and 22 more Oscar party recipes). Also include lots of popcorn for guests, and be sure to stock your bar cabinets with champagne and everything you need to make star-studded cocktails.

Make a Grand Entrance

A fabulous Oscars party isn’t complete without rolling out the red carpet. Adding a red carpet to your entryway is a simple yet spectacular way to get the party started, whether you purchase a $10 runner at your local party store, or an authentic red carpet for around $100. For an extra Hollywood touch, ask your guests for their autograph as they arrive.

Nominees For Best Picture

Set up a photo booth in your open concept kitchen for guests to strike a pose. In the living room, have plenty of comfortable seating around the television for optimal viewing. Add some glitz and glamour to your TV room cabinetry with gold streamers, and red, black and gold balloons.

Hooray For Hollywood

Don’t forget the Oscars is an awards show. At the halfway mark, hand out “Best-Dressed” awards, and set up some Hollywood-themed games to keep things fun through all those long and tearful acceptance speeches. Click here for ideas from HGTV, including Oscar Party Bingo and Academy Awards Scorecards.

And the award for “Best Host” goes to…. You!

5 Ways To Turn Your House Into A Home

Whether a house was purchased resale or as new construction, all homeowners have a desire to personalize their living space. You don’t need to be an interior decorator to create comfortable rooms that also showcase your unique style. After all, where you reside is a reflection of you! From custom touches and thoughtful details and décor, we’ll show you how to turn your house into a home.

First Impressions

The exterior of your house doesn’t have to be basic and bland. Put your best foot forward and pump up your curb appeal by adding personalization. Start by painting your front door in a favorite color that compliments your brick or siding. To give a warm welcome, add visual interest with a bench or chair, potted plants and a pretty wreath. If your landscaping is overgrown or underdone, add that to your spring to-do list. Research which trees and shrubs grow well in your zone and select varieties that suit your style. Also, take into consideration the amount of sunlight your yard receives when purchasing plants. If you have a green thumb, liven things up with seasonal flowers for a pop color. Add the finishing touches with mulch or stone, and edging. When in doubt, consult a landscape designer or visit your local nursery for advice.

It’s What’s On the Inside That Counts

If the interior of your new home has great bones but lacks warmth and character, it’s time for a makeover. Start by making a list of the features that made you fall in love with your house, and also the elements that spark more disgust than joy. Do you adore the layout of your open concept kitchen but not the dated cabinets? Browse the inventory at Willow Lane Cabinetry and take advantage of our free room design service, complete with a 3-D rendering that works within your unique budget. Custom details like glass front doors and a built-in wine rack will surely add to the aesthetic of your open concept kitchen. If you happen to love your solid wood cabinetry, add natural stone countertops and a beautiful backsplash from Willow Lane Cabinetry to complete the look.

3 More Ways To Turn Your House Into A Home

In the living room, add warmth with throw pillows, blankets, window treatments, and area rugs. Make it an inviting space to gather by installing TV room cabinetry. Add comfortable furniture that cohesively fits your design style. Avoid matching sets and suites. After all, your home isn’t a furniture showroom. Take time to choose thoughtful pieces that reflect your style and have meaning to you.

Make the kitchen the heart of your home by including plenty of seating around the kitchen table and island, and warm touches like a table runner, fresh flowers, and pottery canisters. Add inside cabinet accessories for organization and to cut down on countertop clutter. Upgrade light fixtures to illuminate your space while adding a decorative touch.

Create a welcoming entryway with a doormat, baskets, and a hall table or bench. In the Bathroom and laundry room, add solid wood cabinetry for warmth and added storage space. Last but not least, craft comfortable bedrooms with cozy bedding, and décor that reflects the personal style of the unique family member each room belongs to.