Countertops – Page 2 – Fully Assembled Premium Cabinetry

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!

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!

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!

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.

How To Transition Your Home From Winter To Spring

Spring is right around the corner, which means the crisp air; blooming flowers, and warm sunshine that we all missed in the winter months are heading our way. Cold weather is perfect for snuggling up by a warm fire under a chunky blanket, but spring means the world is blossoming into a season of colorful renewal. It’s time to replace the cozy, winter decor with vibrant, fresh pieces perfect for the springtime. Here are some tips to help you transition your home from winter to spring.

Incorporate beautiful and bright spring colors.

Winter is great for shades of deep maroon and rich navy, but spring is the time to break out the light, bright hues and bring life back into your home! Playful pastels such as sunny yellow, robin’s egg blue, and crisp white will eliminate some heaviness and create a cheerful, breezy atmosphere. Changing out kitchen towels, dining room table linens, bedroom sheets, and throw pillows every few months is an easy way to incorporate more seasonally appropriate colors into your home.

Say goodbye to clutter.

Nothing is more refreshing than a tidy home. Try packing up the cinnamon scented candles and wool throws left over from winter to make room for some clean, open space. Too many things can be overwhelming and cramp your home, leaving you feeling trapped. An open concept kitchen is a great way to hold onto spring all year long, because this design provides a fresh, uncluttered environment through any season. But if your home is a bit more closed off, simply cutting down on clutter can help to open up your space.

Bring the outdoors in with fresh flowers.

Many people associate sweet-smelling flowers with the first day spring. Flowers are refreshing to the senses and add an essence of delicacy to your home. Flowers are the perfect detail to add a pop of color and liven up any room for spring. It’s as easy as arranging a few freshly cut spring blooms in a glass vase or placing a potted flowering plant by a sunny window.

Refresh your space.

If you’re renovating your home or just looking to spruce up a bit this season, solid wood cabinetry is a great place to start. Your cabinets are one of the first things people notice about your home, therefore, they are one of the most aesthetically important elements. A rustic design including monochromatic solid wood cabinetry is modern, clean, and perfect for springtime. Neutral, consistent colors create a simple yet classic look and flow that is great this time of year—and every season that follows.

Let the sunshine in.

Spring means the days are getting longer and the sun is shining brighter. Welcome that warmth inside by replacing heavy, dark drapery with sheer, airy curtains. This quick swap will illuminate and energize your home instantly, and allows you to enjoy the long, sunny days of spring, even indoors.

How Cook Up A Simple St. Patrick’s Day Feast In Your Own Kitchen

You don’t have to have the luck of the Irish or dine at a crowded pub to enjoy a traditional St. Patrick’s Day feast. Corned beef and cabbage is a popular holiday dish to cook and enjoy at home, because it’s simple to make and simply delicious! Here, we’ll teach you the tricks of making a St. Patrick’s Day feast in your very own kitchen. So stock the mini refrigerator in your bar cabinets with cold beer, pull out your slow cooker, and let’s get started!

Brisket and a Pot of Gold

Most local grocery stores sell corned beef brisket ready to prepare, with a seasoning packet that usually contains black peppercorns, salt, cinnamon, whole cloves, allspice berries, nutmeg, ginger, coriander, crushed bay leaves, fennel seeds, dill seeds, and/or yellow mustard seeds. Look for a nice sized cut of meat that weighs between three to four pounds. This will feed a family of six — or four, with leftovers!

You can make your corned beef brisket on the stovetop, but we recommend a six or eight-quart crockpot or slow cooker for easy preparation. Lightly spray your slow cooker with vegetable oil. Add one onion cut into wedges and 2 cloves of minced garlic. Lay your brisket on top of the onions. Sprinkle the contents of the seasoning packet on top of the meat. Cover with water (and an optional beer from the aforementioned bar cabinets) and add the lid to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 8 hours.

Halfway through the cooking, add a small bag of baby carrots, 2 stalks of celery cut into thirds, and a pound of baby red or small Yukon Gold potatoes, halved. The last hour or two of cooking, add a large head of green cabbage, quartered. When done, you can shred your brisket in large chunks, or carefully remove and slice to enjoy alongside the veggies!

Irish Soda Bread on the Side

If you’re wondering what to serve with this one-pot meal, the answer to this riddle is simple — Irish Soda Bread. Irish Soda Bread has the dense, cake-y consistency of a large scone cut into a lucky four-leaf clover. We like this version from Simply Recipes because it’s quick and easy to make, and contains basic ingredients already found in your solid wood cabinetry and refrigerator, like flour, baking soda, sugar, raisins (or caraway seeds), eggs, and buttermilk. Click here for the recipe, and have a happy (and delicious) St. Patrick’s Day in the comfort of your own home!

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 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.