transitional – Fully Assembled Premium Cabinetry

How to Create Contrasting Textures in Your Kitchen Décor

When it comes to creating contrasting textures in your kitchen design and décor, there are countless areas where you can get creative and have a lot of fun doing it. Cabinets, countertops, backsplashes, walls and flooring are great places to incorporate contrasting textures and add rich depth to your kitchen.

What Do We Mean by “Contrasting Textures?”

Contrasting textures can mean many things: it can be as simple as pairing rough with smooth or mixing natural wood against metals. An example of this is to take natural, unvarnished cabinets and contrast them against white quartz countertops. You can also create beautiful, contrasting textures by pairing different geometric shapes together, such as sharp, angled corners with smooth, rounded surfaces.

Benefit of Contrasting Textures in Kitchen Design

Texture not only adds visual weight and depth to a space, but it also complements the overall design of a room. In the kitchen, it can convey a specifc theme and feeling to your space. Whether you’re trying to create a warm and cozy kitchen, or you’re looking to go more rustic and natural, chic and sophisticated or create some other vibe personal to you, contrasting textures are an ideal way to convey those styles.

Trendy Ways to Add Contrasting Texture to Your Kitchen

Now to our favorite part… ideas! When it comes to the kitchen, one thing to remember is this is a room that needs to be easily cleanable, and therefore, you’ll want to stay as smooth as possible. No worries – these days, it’s easier than ever to create contrasting textures in your kitchen while keeping the room a breeze to clean. Take a look at a few of our favorite ideas for contrasting textures in your kitchen.

Pair brassware against smooth, white sinks and marble countertops: The chic, industrial style of white and marble warms up fast when paired with brassware, creating a warm and cozy space. Your friends and family will always want to know who your designer was in creating this design.
Combine natural wood with concrete: Concrete surfaces have come a long way when it comes to interior design. In the kitchen, pairing wooden furniture with concrete surfaces exudes style and ease. Something really fun to think about here is how to accessorize. See below for fresh ideas.
Complement glass-fronted cabinets with a subway tile backsplash: This somewhat understated idea packs a style punch and looks especially fantastic in a white kitchen. Complement the overall look of your white kitchen with white, plank flooring.
Match shaker-style cabinets with a geometric backsplash: Adding contrasting textures to a country-style or more traditional kitchen can be achieved by pairing shaker-style cabinets (painted a deep, solid color like navy) with a geometric backsplash. Bring it all together with a backsplash that has a hint of the cabinet color.
Create texture with bold, kitchen walls: Whether you want to make one wall a bold focal point in the room that stands out beautifully against the other walls, or you want to paint your walls a rich, deep color and add contrasting cladding to areas of the room, going bold will always make a statement.

How to Accessorize a Kitchen with Contrasting Textures

Sometimes, it really is about the little things. When it comes to accessorizing, there are simple ways to really make the space radiate. We’ve come up with a couple of ideas to help you figure out your accessories for a kitchen with contrasting textures. And remember this: in general, less is more.

For white and natural kitchens full of different, smooth textures, it’s great to accessorize with pops of color (cutting boards, small appliances, potted plants, etc…). This is a great way to add more depth to the kitchen.
For kitchens that are already pretty colorful, minimal accessories are the best option so as not to look too busy. Having optimal cabinet space and storage is great to achieve this in your space. Opt for a couple stand out pieces.

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.

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!

3 Rules For Designing A Contemporary Rustic Kitchen

It’s wintertime, and the sweet smell of evergreen trees fills the air. So grab a hot cup of cider, sit by the crackling fireplace, and let’s talk about the rules for designing a rustic kitchen with all the contemporary comforts you crave.

Start with a neutral palette.

Just because your kitchen theme is rustic doesn’t mean it needs to be dark. A neutral palette is right on trend, and creates a serene space for cooking and gathering. Contemporary rustic kitchens would look just at home with antique white cabinets as they would with the medium wood tones you traditionally picture in a rustic kitchen. Bathe your walls in creamy off-white, beige or gray paint, and add warmth with simple wood furniture, wood flooring (or wood-look tile), and granite countertops. A natural stone backsplash can help finish the contemporary rustic look.

Incorporate both natural and industrial materials.

While a cabin in the mountains would have lots of wood and other elements taken straight from the great outdoors, a contemporary rustic kitchen should also have industrial touches. Pair hardwood floors and exposed beams with sleek stainless steel appliances and an apron front sink made from hammered copper. Add LED Edison bulbs to oil rubbed bronze light fixtures above your kitchen island, and distressed, rustic pulls to the aforementioned antique white cabinets.

Pull off that lived-in look.

Even though you are designing a new kitchen, you should strive for the comfortable, lived-in look that is the hallmark of a rustic kitchen. Elements like

open shelving and glass front cabinet doors allow you to personalize your kitchen with pottery and other treasured collections you wish to display. The experts at Willow Lane Cabinetry can help you craft the perfect contemporary yet rustic kitchen through our free room design service, complete with a custom layout and 3D renderings that work within your budget.

Here are a few more elements and details you’ll find in a contemporary rustic kitchen:

Galvanized Metal Stools
Caned or Rushed Seating
Upholstery Tacks
Farmhouse Trestle Tables
Reclaimed Wood Paneling
Weathered Brick Accents
Exposed Wood Beams
Minimal Window Coverings
Natural Fiber Rugs
Natural Stone Backsplash
Burlap Table Linens
Unfinished Wood Plank Shelving
L-Shaped Wrought Iron Brackets
Open Light Fixtures
Edison Bulbs
Butcher Block and Granite Countertops

3 Cabinet Choices That Are Both Trendy And Timeless

Some cabinet styles look fresh and contemporary. Others lean more towards traditional. But some styles sit nicely somewhere in between, for the best of both worlds. Here are a few of our favorite transitional cabinet choices that are both trendy and timeless.

Classic White Cabinets

There is just something special about white cabinets. Since the 1920s, when white kitchens were the ultimate must-have (thanks to their bright and clean look and feel), white has stood the test of time. According to a recent survey by the National Kitchen and Bath Association, white cabinets continually top the popularity list with both homeowners and prospective buyers. Whether you prefer a crisp white finish, creamy off-white, or even glazed antique white cabinets, you can’t go wrong with this classic choice.

Simple Shaker Cabinets

While other types of cabinets come in and out of fashion, Shaker cabinetry stands its ground, thanks to simple lines and a focus on function. Shaker cabinetry can be anything you want it to be. You’ll find this style in charming farmhouse kitchens, coastal bathrooms, urban home offices, rustic TV rooms, and the list goes on and on. Talk about versatility! Rest assured, regardless of the age, location, or style of your home, Shaker cabinetry will compliment any room design.

Seamless Euro Slab Cabinets

Minimalist by nature, Euro Slab cabinets feature a frameless door front that allows for full access and maximum storage space. While these types of cabinets tend to look sleek and modern in a dark espresso finish, they take on a completely different vibe in white! As we mentioned earlier, white cabinets are universally appealing, and when paired with a frameless Euro Slab door, you can achieve a seamless look that flows beautifully in a transitional space.

Other elements that work well in a transitional design include glass front cabinet doors, built-in wine racks, natural stone or solid surface countertops, subway tile backsplashes, porcelain or marble tile flooring, stainless steel appliances, and mixing cabinet finishes for your cabinets and kitchen island. All of these choices are timeless yet trendy, and would add the finishing touches to a space that falls perfectly in-between modern and traditional.

Welcome to Willow Lane Cabinetry — the #1 place to buy affordable, semi-custom cabinets online! Let us help you create the kitchen, home office, bar room, laundry room, TV room, or bath of your dreams with our 100% free room design tool. We offer all wood, semi-custom cabinets, 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 Classic Color Combos For A Timeless Home

If the theme of your home is either traditional or transitional, keeping things timeless is always a priority. These designs are often chosen for their classic style and ability to progress seamlessly from one decade to the next. When designing a kitchen in a timeless home, color is clearly a factor, as shades can easily come into popularity one year and go out the next. Here are a few classic combinations to consider for your kitchen’s color scheme.

Black and White

What is more time-honored than classic black and white? This color combo makes a statement while simultaneously being simple, which is why it has faired so well over the years. Creating this design in your kitchen is easy, as you could go with either white cabinets or black cabinets, and build from there. You’ll find endless selections of stunning tile backsplashes and creative flooring options that allow you to uniquely mix and match these two colors.

Grey, Off-White and Beige

Layer your neutrals and create a calming and classic color scheme in your kitchen with dark grey, silky off-white, and sandy beige. When working with these shades, stick to either grey or creamy white cabinets. From there, use paint colors, flooring, and countertops to create the foundation for your grey, off-white and beige kitchen.

Navy, Grey and White

Whether your kitchen has country, English, or nautical vibes, these shades will speak to you. Both classic and versatile, navy, grey, and white look great in the kitchen and will maintain their appeal for years to come. If you want your design to make a big splash, rich navy walls are definitely show stopping, when paired with light grey or crisp white cabinets.

Green, White and Brown

This color scheme exudes a natural, outdoorsy feel that is understated and welcoming. Green, white and brown can create a beautiful beach-house ambiance and transform your kitchen into a tropical oasis. Let natural wood or white cabinets set the tone and then accent the room with green walls, window treatments, or decorative plants. You could even shake things up with a sage green kitchen island. While colorful, this combination remains classic and can even be balanced out with the addition of black cabinets or other dark elements.

Navy, White, and Yellow

Like black and white, navy and white is a classic, and can be complemented with both neutral colors like grey as well as bright hues such as yellow. Some homeowners even prefer navy and white to black and white, as it is a little softer and more dynamic.

Navy, white, and yellow are an ocean-inspired palette that is particularly appealing for kitchens. To create this classic color scheme, pair deep sea blue with bright white and sunny yellow. Together, these colors remind us of summer days while maintaining a cool and clean aesthetic.

Transitional Kitchens: Where Tradition Meets Trendy

Not sure about what style to implement in your kitchen remodel? Are you stuck between your traditional ways and the urge for something fresh and contemporary? Let us introduce to you the transitional kitchen. This hybrid kitchen design perfectly blends the old and the new to create a balanced and functional look for homeowners with mixed tastes.

What defines this kitchen style?

In a transitional kitchen you will find both classic and contemporary elements. But rather than clash with each other, they are clear complements and create a unique unity. One example would be a kitchen with sleek stainless steel appliances, traditional shaker style kitchen cabinets, granite countertops and hardwood floors. The finished product is fresh but familiar at the same time. This is the magic of transitional kitchen design.

How can I create this design in my home?

Building out your transitional kitchen is easy. Your first step is to focus on the major decisions, like kitchen cabinets, flooring, counter tops and appliances. This it the core of your kitchen, and you want to make sure that while the styles of each may vary, cohesively they make sense side by side. To make this process easier, utilize Willow Lane Cabinetry’s free kitchen design service. You’ll receive photorealistic renderings to see how your kitchen cabinets look in your space. No need to guess when technology can do the work for you!

How do you avoid the possible chaos that could occur?

Think of a transitional kitchen as a friendship or relationship, where two different people each bring something to the table. Separately they may be “missing” something but together they are whole, offering strength to one another’s weaknesses. If each person was exactly the same, they could overwhelm rather than benefit one another. When designing a transitional kitchen, you’ll do well to keep these principles in mind. If you try to make every aspect of your kitchen both traditional and trendy, you’ll achieve nothing but chaos. If you focus your styles in certain areas, such as modern kitchen cabinets and traditional hardwood floors, you’ll see how each part of your kitchen brings a unique value to the room as a whole.

What else can be done to amplify this look?

Kitchen design reaches much further than the basics. Outside of your cabinets, flooring, and counter tops is a whole world of opportunities to exemplify your kitchen style. The furniture in your space — from bar stools to the dining room table — make a huge statement. The lighting, and even the kitchen hood above your range, speaks to theme of the room. The paint on the walls and the backsplash give color and character to your kitchen. And then there are the accessories! Decorating your countertops and walls is the finishing touch on any kitchen design. Make sure yours include a balance of new and old — a fruit basket just like your grandma used to have on the same countertop as your brightly colored KitchenAid mixer.

A transitional kitchen should be a breath of fresh air, as it allows you to encompass all the things you love about home design. Don’t stress yourself about getting this just right! You’re getting the rare opportunity in life to have everything you want, so have fun with it and enjoy the process.

Welcome to Willow Lane Cabinetry — the #1 place to buy affordable, semi-custom cabinets online! Let us help you create the kitchen of your dreams with our 100% free kitchen design service. We offer all wood, semi-custom kitchen cabinets, fully assembled and delivered for free, with standard features like soft closing doors and drawers, and 6-way adjustable steel hinges. We give you more and save you money! Visit our website to see our beautiful products today!

Written by Korrie. Korrie Martinez is a self proclaimed DIY pro with an eye for design and a craft for finding simple solutions to homeowner’s common concerns. Her articles offer tips and trends to help The RTA Store’s customers achieve the home of their dreams on a balanced budget. Follow Korrie on Instagram and Twitter @kokonez or visit her website www.korriemartinez.com.