Increasing Home Value Archives | Page 2 of 3

What’s the Timeframe for a Kitchen Remodel?

Posted on January 25, 2023February 15, 2024

It’s exciting to plan a new kitchen, especially if you’ve been living with an outdated space. You envision sleek new countertops, cabinets, and appliances. You might even have the hardware and paint colors selected! But a kitchen renovation, like all home improvement projects, involves a very specific process. Knowing what to expect during a kitchen remodel and how long it may take, will help you and your whole family relax and enjoy the transition from an ugly old kitchen to a beautiful new one. Read on to learn what’s the timeframe for a kitchen remodel.
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1) Planning

Planning helps you figure out what your new kitchen will look like and how it will function. We recommend that you expect a 2-3 week timeframe for professional Kitchen Design renderings and consultations.

Look:
Start by setting a budget. This will help you figure out what products and brands you should start with.

Then look at different product galleries and photos, or visit showrooms. to get a feel for what styles appeal to you. There are many types of materials, hardware, colors, and finishes to choose from.

Finally, start a scrapbook or inspiration board. Place examples of tile, cabinets, flooring, sinks, lighting in there. Then as you figure out what you like, you can take it up a notch and create combinations. Just like the designers on the Home Improvement shows.

Function:
To get a clear picture of the space you have to work with sketch out the basic shape of the room, then:

Draw in all current counters, appliances, or other built-in fixtures.
Take measurements and record them on the sketch, so that you can best fit your new plans into the existing space.

If you plan to rearrange your kitchen layout, create a second sketch with your new plans.

Your goal is to explore your needs and goals for the space and decide how will it function. It’s easier and far less expensive to try out ideas on paper. Once you order materials and begin construction, changes are costly.

It helps to work with an expert GNH Kitchen Designer as you plan. They will make suggestions that can save you time and money, help you choose materials, and even create a 3D rendering of your kitchen design.
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2) Ordering

After your design is finished, approved, and all measurements taken, the product orders are placed. Expect a 4-6 week minimum for your cabinets, tile, flooring and countertops to arrive. Some products may take as long as 18 weeks. This gives you time to purchase fixtures, appliances and anything else you need. Don’t forget to figure out where you will cook and have meals during the construction phase. (You may need to set up a temporary kitchen and dining area elsewhere in the home.)
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3) Construction

Depending on the scope of your kitchen design project, construction can take a few days or weeks. Your contractor will have the best sense of the exact timeframe. During this stage, demolition and reinstallation of plumbing, electric, and HVAC is done if needed. If you encounter surprises and delays—they’re a normal part of every remodel, so just stay in close communication with your kitchen contracting team during the process.
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4) Installation

This is where the magic happens! Your new kitchen starts to come to life as your contractor lays flooring, installs new cabinets and countertops, as well as lighting, faucets, backsplash, and hardware. And before you know it, you’ll be enjoying your new kitchen!

Top image is a featured KraftMaid Kitchen, click for details.

What to Know When Choosing Paint Colors for Your Kitchen

Posted on August 7, 2022February 15, 2024

For a quick and easy way to update the look of your kitchen, there’s no better solution than a coat of fresh paint on the walls.

Depending on your choice of color, new paint colors can make the small space feel larger, make a dramatic statement or create warmth and coziness.

When it comes to kitchens, white, gray, blue, red, yellow, and green are at the top of our list for excellent paint color choices. Yellow is homey and cheerful while red is vibrant and intense—both are believed to stimulate the appetite. Yellow, however, will make a tiny kitchen feel larger, while red will make a large space feel more intimate. Blue, white, green and gray are all calming colors that can help you create a bright and inviting space.

Get your painting project started!

Gray is a neutral that’s been taking center stage lately in many homes. It often gets categorized as being too cold, but with the right shade, it can work wonders in a kitchen. Best of all, it pairs beautifully with a wide array of other colors and is the perfect base to build upon in a kitchen. It also works well as a countertop or cabinet color.

Cabinets

Before you select a color, think about how it will work with your cabinets. White cabinets will look great with almost any color, but wood tones will harmonize differently with each paint color. An easy way to see if your colors will complement each other is to paint one section of wall beside a cabinet before committing to the whole room.

If you plan on getting new cabinets, pick your cabinet color first and then the kitchen paint colors second, since the cabinets will dictate the design of the room. Neutral walls work better with very colorful cabinets. So, if you want to go crazy with your kitchen paint colors, try opting for white cabinets instead.

Countertops

Countertops are also important to consider when selecting paint colors. If you have a neutral-colored countertop or plan to install one, you’ll have more flexibility with the paint colors you can use. But if you plan to use a countertop that has a lot of colorful detail in it, you might want to keep your walls more neutral so the two don’t clash.

Appliances

Even the appliances you have in your kitchen can play a role in picking a paint color. By considering your cabinets, countertops and appliances when creating a color scheme, you’re more likely to select a color that will work for the entire room.

Resale Value

The resale value of your home is another important consideration when selecting paint colors for your kitchen. While you might be drawn to a very bold shade, future buyers might not find it so appealing. If you plan on selling your home someday, it’s smarter to opt for a toned-down color scheme.

If you have questions about your kitchen painting project, stop in to your local GNH Lumber for tips, guidance and expert advice!

Sources: “Best Colors to Paint a Kitchen” and “What Colors to Paint a Kitchen,” HGTV.com

What’s the Best Layout for Large Kitchens?

Posted on July 27, 2022February 15, 2024

Is your kitchen space large or open concept? The layout of your kitchen design will help establish work zones, influence counter space, and allow for seating – or maybe not. Your GNH designer will help you choose a layout that maximizes your larger kitchen space and supports your family’s goals.

Download our free kitchen planning guide.

Here are three popular kitchen layouts for larger kitchens from KraftMaid:

1. G-Shaped Kitchens

This layout uses nearly every square foot of available floor space by adding a peninsula or partial fourth wall of base cabinets to a U-shaped layout. Because the narrower entrance into the work zone can make a cook feel claustrophobic, this layout works best in larger kitchens.

Adding a short return on the open side of a U-shaped layout minimizes traffic flow in and out of the work zone.
There are plenty of places to set up specialized zones.
This layout features the most corner base cabinets. Use corner storage solutions in your design plan to maximize utility in these awkward spaces.

2. L-Shaped Kitchens

Placing cabinets along two perpendicular walls form an L-shaped layout and adapts well to a variety of spaces, making them one of the most popular kitchen layout options.

This layout is the most cost-effective and efficient way to create a work triangle.
Typically, one side will feature your sink, while the stove goes on the other. Your refrigerator can go on either side, the longer one if available.
L-shaped layouts are great for kitchens that open to a dining or living room. With no barrier between the kitchen’s work space and adjacent room, both areas feel larger.

3. U-Shaped Kitchens

A U-shaped kitchen has cabinets along three walls with open access on the remaining side. If your room is large enough, set up multiple work zones on different sides of the “U” so two people can use the kitchen without getting into each other’s way.

Continuous countertops and ample storage surround the cook.
A U-shaped kitchen has potential for more upper cabinets than other layouts.
When three perimeter walls aren’t available, add a peninsula to an L-shaped kitchen to form the third side of the “U.”

Source: KraftMaid: Kitchen Layout Options

6 Colorful Ways to Complement Neutral Trim & Siding

Posted on June 14, 2022January 6, 2025

There are many benefits to choosing a neutral color palette for siding and trim. For one, neutral colors appeal to the broadest range of potential home-buyers, making your home more marketable when it comes time to sell.

Neutrals also may be the top pick in your particular neighborhood, and therefore necessary to help your home blend into its location. And because siding is something that will potentially grace your home for decades, neutral siding and trim colors are a timeless choice.

Even if your current siding color palette is quite basic, this doesn’t mean your home can’t have personality and curb appeal.

There are many creative ways to accent neutral siding if you’re looking for just a pop of color. Try these ideas to give your home a fresh new look!

1) Create a Welcoming Entrance

The entry door is a great candidate for color! If you want to paint an existing door, use a high-quality acrylic latex paint for maximum durability. Before painting, don’t forget to clean the door, use a sander or sandpaper to remove any imperfections, and apply a latex-based primer.

2) Choose a Bright Garage Door

Take it from DesigningIdea.com: “The color red brings intensity to a home’s character. It creates a strong impression and radiates a welcoming feel. Red garage doors are intense visual components which direct the attention away from the house. This is the ideal color if you want to make your garage door stand out from the rest of the features of your home.

“Aside from the popular ravishing red and fire red, there are less intense options like burgundy and maroon which work well as garage door colors for traditional houses. Red garage doors work well for neutral (white or beige) and earth toned exteriors. For more modern and adventurous applications, a red garage door can also be used for adding a punch of color for pale yellow or blue houses.”

3) Add Bold Shutters

Whether functional or decorative, shutters add color and historic charm to a home. For the look of wood with the least amount of maintenance, look for shutters made of fiberglass, PVC or composite wood.

4) Try Creative Gardening

A neutral home can be the perfect backdrop for a riot of colorful shrubs and flowers. From blooming shrubs to lovely annuals and perennials, there are many plant options to make your home inviting. Ask your local nursery or landscaping company for recommendations.

5) Colorful Pavers & Pathways

You use winding, curvy pathways to contrast with and compliment the hard lines of your home exterior – why not also use them to add a pop of color? Try alternating brick red and light tan to create a host of interesting designs, patterns and effects.

6) Rock Some Unique Porch Chairs or a Swing.

Can’t commit to a bold shutter or entry door color? Take your color to something that can be moved, such as chairs, a swing or planters. You’ll get the same colorful effect that can be easily updated or removed when the mood strikes.

Learn more about using accent colors on your home’s exterior.

Need New Siding?

Is it time for new siding? Are you interested in learning about LP® SmartSide® engineered wood siding products? We invite you to experience the upside of remodeling with the LP SmartSide Visualizer. Pick your home style, or upload an actual photo of your home. Choose your siding and trim colors. See what you can achieve with different LP SmartSide siding options. Then get your home re-side project started today by requesting a project quote or scheduling an appointment at GNH Lumber to discuss your project particulars!

Sources: https://www.upsidetosmartside.com/blog/4-bold-exterior-accents-compliment-neutral-trim-siding/; https://lpcorp.com/products/exterior/siding-trim/blog/siding-products-benefits/how-to-use-lp-products-to-create-a-custom-look/; https://designingidea.com/garage-door-color-ideas/

How to Install Cultured Stone Veneers Outside Your Home

Posted on March 21, 2022August 8, 2022

Bring Your Home Exterior Design Dreams to Life

With the weather warming up and the days growing longer, it’s the perfect time to spruce up your home exterior! Whether you’re building a backyard retreat (complete with firepit!) or looking to give your home exterior a new look, one product stands out. Cultured Stone veneers are a stylish and versatile option that are great for many projects. What’s more, they’re the right tool for anybody – DIY or contractor, for jobs big and small. The installation process is simple and can be completed in just a few days.

Materials Needed

Before you begin the exterior installation process, make sure you have the following tools and materials on hand:

• Cultured Stone manufactured stone veneers
• Safety equipment (N95 mask, safety glasses, work boots, etc.)
• Flashing
• Rain screen
• Jointing tool
• Masonry brush
• Spacers
• Water resistant barrier (WRB)
• Grout sealer
• Pointing trowel
• Notched trowel
• Welded wire lath complying with ASTM C933
• Corrosion resistant fasteners (staples, roofing nails, etc.)
• Mortar (scratch coat, setting bed, and pointing)
• Drop cloths and cleanup supplies

Job Site Setup

Before beginning your project, start by storing all your materials out of the way, but still convenient to application. Be sure to eliminate any trip hazards and keep your Cultured Stone veneers protected from any worksite dust or inclement weather. Use your drop cloths to protect any landscaping.

Wall Prep

If your home exterior project has metal or wood framing, begin by applying two layers of WRB as independent layers, lapped in “shingle” fashion. Evenly install your flashings across the primary layer. Make sure that your primary WRB meets all building codes and manufacturer requirements, depending on your project.

After installing the primary layer, apply the second “sacrificial” layer of WRB, to allow incidental water to drain down and out. Lap each material 2” horizontally and 6” vertically, fasten with WRB-approved fasteners.

Make sure that any contact with doors or windows are flashed properly. Head flashings and drip screen will help resist water damage.

Adding Your Rain Screen

For any home exterior projects that involve adding Cultured Stone veneers to your walls, adding rain screens adds an extra layer of protection against water damage. This physical airspace behind the cladding provides a larger path for drainage, using a ventilation drying effect. Standard building codes allow for just a single layer of rain screen, but be sure that it is at least 60 minute building paper or equivalent.

Lath Application

Depending on whether you use expanded metal, woven wire, welded wire, or alternative lath, it needs to transfer cladding load to your framing. Make sure your fasteners penetrate the framing and are spaced evenly. Typical applications would have fasteners 16” on center, spaced a maximum of 7” vertically.

When placing lath, always end lap joints over framing and fasten them there. Any that does not land on framing will need to be wire laced. For all overlaps, use at least 0.5” horizontally and 1” vertically and at end laps. NEVER end your laps at a corner, as this creates sharp edges and breaks in the barrier.

Mortar Application

Once the lath is installed, check for roughness. This will tell you the direction of the cups and determine which direction to apply the mortar. Follow the same path as the cups, using consistent pressure with your trowel to ensure mortar completely fills the lath. Whether your mortar is pre-blended or created on-site, make sure it meets NCMA standards.

Aim for at least a 0.5” to 0.75” layer of mortar, as anything less than 0.5” inches is too thin and runs the risk of cracking. Cover all lath at your target thickness, keeping at eye out for thin spots. You may need to apply a second layer to achieve desired thickness and levelness.

After letting the mortar cure for a few hours, it’s time to texture the surface with a scratch coat. Use your notched trowel in even, horizontal strokes across the mortar. This will allow your Cultured Stone to connect easier to the walls or surfaces. Allow at least 24-48 hours for the mortar to cure completely.

In warmer weather, remember to lightly mist your scratch coat and stone units to keep them properly hydrated.

Setting the Stones

Before installing the stones, check the back of each and remove any dust or debris. Then, gently dampen the scratch coat and stone units with clean water. Make sure both look saturated, but not shiny with water.

Apply your setting bed mortar onto a few square feet of the prepared surface with your trowel. Then apply a thin “back butter” of mortar to the entire back of the stone unit. Press the stone into the setting bed mortar on the wall. Leave enough space for joint gaps, and then leave the stone be.

Clean out mortar droppings as you go along and check stone bonding periodically. If a stone needs to be re-mortared, remove all original mortar first before re-applying and re-setting.

Be aware that if you’re setting stones in corner layouts, that flat stones can be nested and alternated to create a uniform look.

Large Format Stones

For large firepits or radical home exterior redesigns, large format stones are a viable option. The key to proper bonding is achieving a full setting bed of quality mortar, with ample spacing between units. You should also take time to ensure your scratch coat is level and straight, adding another coat if necessary. Many of these large format stones are fitted with mortar joints, but you may need to use a larger 3/8” inch joint to make filling with mortar easier. Use spacers on all four sides of each unit to maintain uniform mortar joint gap, and remove carefully after the mortar has cured.

Joint Treatment & Wrap-Up

With your stones placed and spaced appropriately, you’re now ready to fill in your joint gaps. Make sure the mortar you use is smooth enough to flow easily through a grout bag. Carefully remove any excess setting board mortar from the joints before filling.

Fill in each joint gap evenly with mortar, being careful not to disturb the stones as you go along. Once filled in, wait until the mortar is thumbprint hard, then you can tool the joints as needed. Depending on your desired look, use either a tooling joint or a wooden stick to shape them.

After the mortar has had time to set, be sure to go over it with a masonry brush to remove any additional debris.

From here, it’s just a matter of cleaning up your worksite and letting your new wall or outdoor feature set. For more information on installing Cultured Stone outside your home, be sure to contact our talented design team!

Kitchen Remodel Tips From the Pros

Posted on January 5, 2022February 15, 2024

Looking for kitchen remodel tips from the pros?

Get a jump-start on planning and designing the perfect kitchen for your family! It’s easy to create a gorgeous new kitchen with help from the pros. They’ve been doing it for years and are often on top of the newest trends. To help you get started, check out these 7 kitchen remodel tips and trends from GNH Kitchen Designer, Michele Gregg.

Things to Consider as You Plan a New Kitchen

1) Budget Wisely & Plan Appropriately

When you’re planning a kitchen remodel, making a budget and plan and sticking to it is key. The National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA) recommends spending 15-20% of your home’s value on your kitchen remodel. This guideline ensures that your new kitchen is a wonderful investment towards the value of your home. Planning your kitchen remodel should take more time than the actual construction. By planning well, you can reduce the amount of time you’re inconvenienced by construction mayhem. Plus, you’re much more likely to stay on budget!

2) Consult a Pro

Don’t forget: a kitchen remodel involves more than just replacing cabinetry. Working with an experienced designer will help you navigate all aspects of your kitchen remodel. From cabinets and countertops, to lighting and fixtures, and more! Designers stay up to date on trends & new materials. They are familiar with their local building codes and working with contractors. Their experience will translate to avoiding delays and will save money in the long run.

3) Have patience!

Each space is unique, and your perfect kitchen will take time to design, plan and create. Take time to enjoy the process of designing, planning, and product selection. It will be worth it in the long run! The more challenges you can anticipate and solve in advance, the faster your remodel will go, and the more money you will save.

Popular Kitchen Design Trends

4) Add More Functions

Today’s kitchens are designed to accommodate more than just cooking. Kitchen designers now create spaces where people can gather, play games, and even work on their laptops or mobile devices. Of course, the modern kitchen is still a place for cooking, baking, cleanup and prepping meals. But, in addition to these basic functions, our kitchens have evolved. We’re now using this all-important room to entertain our family & friends, help our kids finish their homework, balance household budgets or plan parties–and much more!

5) Break it Open

Open concepts are very popular. Even the smallest kitchens will feel bigger and brighter in an open concept layout. This also floods the space with daylight coming from windows in other rooms and can facilitate airflow. But larger kitchen spaces are also trending towards the open concept layout. By opening up this all-important room to the living room, you make it easier to interact with your family or guests from the kitchen as they relax on the couch. You can add space needed to create “entertaining zones” like coffee nooks, breakfast bars, and more.

6) Storage, Not Space

More storage will never go out of style. Even if you’re working within the footprint of your existing kitchen space, you can still add tons of storage! Try installing cabinets that reach your ceiling. This adds more shelving space and gives you a spot to display that beautiful dishware up top. You can also install shelving units, racks, and hooks in unused spaces. These could be empty sections of wall, inside cabinet doors, or even your ceiling.

7) Go Bold

Design with color and texture in mind. White Shaker style cabinetry has been popular for years now. While it still remains popular, we are now finding ways to introduce color and texture. A dark navy-blue island stands out against the white perimeter cabinets. Wood stained floating shelves that coordinate with the hardwood floors. A honed or “leathered finish” countertop that creates warmth.

Have fun designing your gorgeous new kitchen!

What are Some Advantages to Choosing Double Hung Windows?

Posted on October 1, 2021August 8, 2022

Have you considered updating or adding double hung windows? Fall is here, soon to be followed by winter. Now’s the time to prepare your home from bitter cold temperatures.

Your windows may appear operational, but if they whistle, rattle or leak, then you’re likely losing money in heating costs. The same is true of your brittle or cracked weather-stripping. Small leaks, cracks and rattles add up to a big difference in your monthly utility bills.

If it’s time to update your windows, consider double hung replacements. There are many advantages to the design of the window, including easy cleaning and care. In addition, double hung windows can improve energy-efficiency and curb appeal, too.

Click here to get started now.

Here are some of the major advantages of double hung windows:

Superior Ventilation. They provide great ventilation capabilities and the ability to control airflow. For maximum ventilation, you simply open both top and bottom sashes – the bottom sash will let in cool, fresh air, while the top sash will allow warm indoor air to be expelled through it.
Aesthetically Adaptable. Its traditional look can match any home style. In fact, double hung windows are known for their classic appeal, which makes them suitable for any home or room. They also come in a variety of styles, sizes, colors, and finishes.
Easy to Maintain. These windows often come with tilt-out sashes that make cleaning easier, as you can clean both the interior and exterior from inside your home. Some even have removable sashes.
Addition Friendly. They are ideal for the easy fitting of air conditioners and screens. Because most units are designed to slide up and down instead of cranking out or sliding to the side, they can safely hold AC units, and allow for their easy removal, as needed.
Energy-Efficient. Aside from the superior ventilation mentioned earlier, this type of window brings in a generous amount of natural light. By choosing Low-E glass with gas fill you can further enhance savings on your energy costs.

For all these reasons and more, you should seriously consider double hung windows as an option when choosing replacement windows for your home.

Get Your New Windows Today!

The experts at GNH Lumber are here to answer your questions, provide product suggestions and tips for each step of your window replacement project! Click here to get started.

Calming Paint Colors from Benjamin Moore

Posted on November 21, 2020March 21, 2022

Are you looking to cover your walls with calming paint colors? Benjamin Moore has color choices that will make you feel even more at home.

“Soft power, silence, pause.” These are some of the words that Benjamin Moore uses to describe the blend of blue-green and gray that is Aegean Teal 2136-40. This intriguing mid-tone creates natural harmony and looks just as amazing in the kitchen as it does in the bedroom, den or home office.

Want calming paint colors? The entire Ben Moore “Color Trends Collection” is designed to nourish the spirit with the comforting, sun-baked hues. It also helps us celebrate the simple pleasures in life—like “the faded rumple of linen sheets in the morning and perfectly ripened fruits on the windowsill. The twelve hues in the palette radiate warmth and well-being. These are colors that make your home feel even more like home. Settle in.”

Get your painting project started!

So, go on… Take a moment to reflect and reset. Intriguing, balanced, and deeply soothing, the Benjamin Moore Color, Aegean Teal 2136-40, creates natural harmony. Check out the full video introduction to this calming blue-green and gray combination:

This isn’t your ordinary mid-tone teal. The slight hint of bluish-green evokes calm and harmony, while making yellows, whites and beige tones POP!

Reclaim Your Ease

Pair Aegean Teal 2136-40 with Muslin OC-12 to beautiful effect, like in the cozy bedroom above. Muslin OC-12 is part of the Off-White Color collection. Inherently sophisticated and endlessly versatile, the Off-White collection offers subtle nuances of whites that suit tranquil, serene environments as well as creates color-enhancing accents for dynamic spaces.

Tip: Less is more when working with this subtle teal. Surround Aegean Teal with whites and off-whites to allow its soft colors to really sing.

Work in Harmony

Create a home office that truly inspires productivity! These soft Aegean Teal 2136-40 cabinets create a sense of balance to help you work better and feel less distracted. It pairs well light gray walls like Benjamin Moore’s Foggy Morning, or Gray Cashmere.

Tip: Wicker baskets, metallic hardware and lighting fixtures complete this cozy and homey look.

Get Your Interior Painting Project Done!

Painting the rooms of your home can have tremendous impact, and it’s a great family project with a modest price tag. Strive for a balance of linear elements and colors, and don’t be afraid to ask the experts at GNH Lumber for guidance and tips along the way. Get your painting project started!

Sources: https://www.benjaminmoore.com/en-us/color-overview/color-palettes/color-of-the-year-2021

How to Harmonize Your Home Exterior’s Color Palette

Posted on June 28, 2019January 6, 2025

Outdoor entertaining season is in full swing! Delight your guests with siding that creates eye-pleasing symmetry and utilizes harmonious color combinations. According to LP Siding, there’s no reason your siding can’t be the true focal point of your home’s exterior, with landscaping and other outdoor elements supporting its aesthetic.

The best part? Creating a colorful and dramatic home exterior and backyard doesn’t have to be an expensive endeavor! It’s easy to re-side your home on a budget. Just ask the experts at GNH Lumber for more information.

Here are some tips and tricks from LP Siding to ensure your home’s exterior and outdoor elements complement each other perfectly this summer:

Tip #1: Go for Greens, Browns or Beiges

The greens, browns and beiges of nature are colors that are easy to integrate with outdoor focal points like a garden, shed or fencing.

Tip #2: Muted Tones are More Versatile

Grays and muted colors are more versatile than pure pastels and bright hues. You don’t have to exactly match plant and paint color with these subtle shades. Fence and shed colors should also be muted.

Tip #3: Keep Undertones Together

Keep color undertones together. A “cool” house color like blue, green or purple works well with cool plant colors and complementary fence and shed colors. Conversely, “warm” house colors like light yellow, pink or apricot harmonize with “warm” outdoor elements.

Tip #4: Use Caution with Complimentary Colors

In some cases, you can match colors that are on opposite ends of the color wheel (like red and green), but they need to be muted shades accented with gray. Otherwise, your home may stand out for all the wrong reasons (and end up looking too much like Christmas).

Source: https://lpcorp.com/blog/4-tips-to-harmonize-your-home-s-exterior-and-outdoor-color-scheme

Creating a Kitchen that You – and Your Wallet – will Love!

Posted on May 1, 2019January 6, 2025

Kitchen Designers are “Creative Problem Solvers”

When you embark on a kitchen design collaboration with Keri at GNH Lumber, you quickly discover that she is like a seasoned guide leading you through the difficult terrain of design choices, options and considerations. You have a specific destination in mind, and your designer’s job is to get you there with as few mishaps as possible.

Keri likes to think of designers as ‘creative problem solvers,’ and her first task at hand, when working with a client, is to gather information about your “project, lifestyle, and overall design taste.” Always, her emphasis is on listening:

“You can achieve a lot through listening and asking the right questions, communication is a large part of my occupation. I then build the design around what I know of my client and their needs, as opposed to simply creating something that I like. This makes all the difference.”

Download our free kitchen planning guide.