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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!

Blue Hue Cabinets: Ideas to Inspire

If you’re looking for cabinets in a color that pops but isn’t overpowering, you’ll want to check out the array of blue hue cabinets that are available. Bolder than traditional white and wood cabinets, but not so showy that they take away from the rest of the kitchen decor, blue cabinets provide the perfect design balance.

You can go bold with a deep navy blue for a sophisticated look, choose a coastal blue for a more soothing, seaside vibe, or opt for something in between. Whatever your style preference is, you’ll find a blue hue that will create the look and feel you want in your kitchen.

Get inspired with these ideas for incorporating blue cabinets into your kitchen.

Blue Shaker Cabinets

Shaker cabinets are a versatile style that works in both traditional and contemporary homes. If you love the look of Shaker, you’ll love how it looks in a light, happy shade of blue. Blue shaker cabinets will transform your kitchen into a space that feels fresh, uplifting and timeless.

Two-Tone Cabinets

Two-tone cabinets provide a modern look and create a unique style. Choose one shade of blue for your top cabinets and another, complementary shade of blue for your bottom cabinets.

One eye-catching combination is minty blue upper cabinets paired with navy blue lower cabinets.

Top or Bottom Blue Cabinets

If you want to incorporate blue hue cabinets into your kitchen but don’t want to go with all blue cabinets, you can opt to use blue for half of your cabinets – either the upper portion or bottom portion – and go with white for the other half.

Aqua blue top cabinets create an artistic vibe that doesn’t take over the kitchen and enables you to maintain a streamlined look. For bottom cabinets, navy is a smart choice that provides an elegant look and feel, especially when paired with marble counters.

Blue Kitchen Island

If you love an all-white kitchen but want to break up the look with a touch of color, consider adding a blue kitchen island. This design option allows you to incorporate just enough blue to make a difference in the overall look and feel of your kitchen, without having to make a huge commitment to the color.

Turquoise Cabinets

If you’re more daring and aren’t afraid to commit to full colored cabinets in a bright blue color, turquoise kitchen cabinets may be a great option for you. Both fun and sophisticated, turquoise cabinets will instantly give new life to your kitchen and create an upbeat, vibrant mood.

No matter which shade of blue cabinets you choose and what type of design you ultimately go with, when you incorporate blue hue cabinets you can be sure your kitchen will have a distinct look and feel that you love.

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!

9 Must-Have Spring And Summer Spices To Keep In Your Spice Rack

Spring and summer can be a busy time of the year. Kids are off from school and the warm weather provides many opportunities for fun activities. Sometimes it can be difficult to sacrifice time with your family in order to cook a big meal. At the same time, all that outdoor fun can really work up an appetite.

Spicing up your food is a great way to make cooking quicker while still being delicious and full of flavor. There are literally hundreds of spices to choose from, but if you’re new to the spice world, you may be confused where to start. Thankfully, we are here to help! Here are a few must-have spices for your kitchen cabinets, perfect for spring and summer.

Sea Salt & Whole Peppercorns

You most likely already have these two spices hiding somewhere in your solid wood cabinetry. They are the most commonly used spices and arguably the most versatile. However, try replacing your regular salt and pepper with sea salt and whole peppercorns that you can manually ground. Pre-ground salt and pepper can lose a lot of flavor through processing. It makes a difference to opt for something more high quality and pure, since these are probably your most used spices.

Cayenne Pepper

Cayenne pepper is a hot chili spice that has been used in many dishes for thousands of years. Cayenne pepper is great for adding a little heat to your cooking, and it is also believed to have several health benefits, including congestion relief, pain relief, and boosting the metabolism. Use it in Spicy Beef Chili, and BBQ rubs.

Cinnamon

Cinnamon is another commonly used spice known for its sweet but fiery flavor. Cinnamon is a kitchen staple because it can be used in both sweet and tangy dishes, from French toast to Cinnamon Curry Rice. Cinnamon comes in both stick form and ground.

Garlic Powder

Garlic powder is an easy addition to savory recipes. Adding a dash of garlic powder to chicken breast, steak, vegetables, or pasta sauce will instantly take your food from plain to delectable. And don’t forget the garlic bread!

Ground Ginger

Ginger has been known to help fight common colds and the flu, and may even aid in curing stomachaches, vomiting and nausea. Use it to flavor soups, stir fry, and even spring and summer desserts like Carrot Cake.

Dried Oregano

Oregano is a must-have if you enjoy Italian dishes like lasagna, homemade pizza, and Parmesan chicken. It’s also the signature spice in Greek salad dressing.

Vanilla Extract

If you do any type of baking, the recipe will usually call for vanilla extract. Muffins, cakes, brownies and pies all share this vital ingredient. For the best flavor, opt for pure vanilla extract over artificial.

Nutmeg

Nutmeg is a great addition to pies and cookies, but it also can delightfully season chicken and even spinach! Nutmeg adds a touch of warm spice to coffee, tea and other beverages. But be sure to sprinkle it on sparingly — ground nutmeg packs a powerful punch.

Paprika

Paprika is a zesty spice that comes in sweet, smoked, and hot varieties. It can be used in a variety of dishes to add a unique peppery flavor and an appetizing dash of deep red color. It’s especially nice when added to roasted potatoes or fish.

Try to organize your spices in either a tray that is nestled in a drawer near the stove, or in a door-mounted rack in your solid wood cabinetry. These inside cabinet accessories from Willow Lane Cabinetry are the perfect solution for storing all of your spices in an organized and easily accessible manner.

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.

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.

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 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.

How To Build A Better Home Bar

Is your bar sitting in a dark corner, collecting dust? It might be time for a makeover. From sleek bar cabinets to integrated technology, here are a few ways you can build a better bar in your home.

Step 1: Seek some assistance.

Build a bar that you and your guests will love by working with one of Willow Lane Cabinetry’s complimentary designers. From choosing which bar cabinets will look best in your open concept kitchen to sending you photorealistic renderings of your finished design, our team will be by your side every step of the way. To get started, just fill out this form.

Step 2: Make it your own.

One of our customers was a huge a wine lover — but you would’ve never known it by her home bar. It lacked the features and functionality to enhance her wine drinking experience, so it went completely unused. When remodeling her kitchen, she was concerned this would happen again. We recommended installing a wine cooler and hanging a few wall-mounted wine glass racks. Her abandoned home bar is now her favorite part of her open concept kitchen. A few small touches can turn a basic home bar into something truly special.

Step 3: Step outside of the kitchen.

Your kitchen isn’t the only place to install a bar. The TV room, dining room, and backyard are just a few other options. Sometimes the place that makes the most sense isn’t the most common. Don’t be afraid to think outside of the box and step outside of the kitchen with your bar design.

Step 4: Add some seating.

One reason a home bar gets banished is lack of seating. If you find yourself making a drink in the kitchen and heading straight for the couch or dining room table, it might be time to expand the area around your home bar. From a simple high-top table to a comfy side chair, the possibilities are really endless. See if some seating can increase the foot traffic to your home bar. Not only will this make your bar more appealing to you — but your guests as well. A home bar can be a great asset when entertaining. Seating can make this part of your home more welcoming and will increase your hosting clout.

Step 5: Make your home bar more like your favorite bar.

What’s your favorite bar like? Some may describe a quaint hotel lounge where the seats are made of velvet and the whiskey is served over ice. Others may rave about the sports memorabilia hung from the walls in their hometown pub where they played darts in college. Rather than just build a basic bar, think of memories and establishments that have personal meaning to you. It is so easy to bring parts of your favorite bar into your home and create something that has true meaning and character.