Blog1: Ways to Upgrade Basic Kitchen Cabinets

If you are looking to revamp your kitchen without breaking the bank, then a great option is to redo your kitchen cabinets. There are tons of basic upgrades that you can do on your cabinets that will completely change the way your kitchen looks and feels. Cosmetic changes are a great way to help a more substantial, time-consuming, and costly kitchen renovation hold its value and can take a kitchen that appears to be from the last century and update it to a modern masterpiece. Here are some examples of things you can do to your cabinets to completely change your kitchen.

Paint Job

If your kitchen feels too cave-like and closed off, it can easily be thanks to dark cabinets in a space that is too small for them. There is no need to take these cabinets down and replace them, a paint job or new stain is all you need. If you go the staining route, you will have to strip the old stain to replace it with a lighter one, while if you paint your kitchen cabinets white or another light colour, then you will merely have to clean them and paint them. While a bit labour intensive, painting is inexpensive.

Resurface

If your kitchen is particularly old or has been home to a heavy load or full of kids, then the cabinets may be coated in grease and scratched. You do not have to throw these cabinets out, especially if they are good quality wood. You can instead have the cabinets professionally resurfaced. The cost of this is five times less than installing all new cabinets, and you can end up saving beautiful cabinetry that is otherwise still functional.

Cabinet Under Lighting

You can install under lighting on your cabinets for a meagre price depending on how you do it. Simple stick on pop lights is one method that is very inexpensive but can offer a lot of extra light. You can also go with an LED strip to really light the area up or get an electrician to install something more heavy duty than a battery-powered addition to your kitchen.

Install Cabinet Features

To make your cabinets more functional, you can install pull out cabinet shelves and lazy susans. Pull out shelves resemble shallow drawers and make it easy to access things buried deep inside bottom shelves. It also will help keep you from shoving too much inside of a cabinet and having a cascade down upon you when you open your cabinets up. Lazy susans can go in spice cabinets to make it easy to access everything or in corner cabinets to give you better access to otherwise underutilized space.

Add a Plate Rack

A plate rack is a great way to store your dishes, cut down on breaks when you're trying to pull a plate down, and display the beautiful dishes you paid so much to enjoy. It also helps spare storage space for other essential things. A simple slotted storage system can be built from a kit or by a professional.

If you are looking to make upgrades to your kitchen cabinets or do some custom cabinet design, then contact us at Woodhaven Kitchens. Our kitchen design team does everything, including kitchen countertops or laminate countertops. Just tell us what you need, and we'll make your kitchen look brand new.

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Blog 2: How to Renovate Your Kitchen Under Budget

Are you about to start a big kitchen renovation and worried about going over budget? Adding new style and functionality to your kitchen doesn’t have to cost an arm and both legs. These are some tips to help you stay on budget during your kitchen reno.

Add More Lighting

Help brighten up your kitchen with new lighting fixtures, whether its a modern chandelier, pendant lighting over an island or just LED lighting strips underneath the cabinets. These features are much cheaper than opening up an exterior wall to add an extra window or two.

Hire a Professional

The contractor or designer knows best. By creating a kitchen design plan ahead of time, before any walls start coming down, you know exactly where your money’s going and how things will play out. This will save you from making expensive changes in the middle of construction that end up costing more than you’d anticipated.

Don’t Move the Plumbing

Use the existing piping layout for your new kitchen to save you major cash. The same goes for the utilities. Even if you replace everything with new appliances and fixtures, you’ll save thousands by keeping them where they are.

Remnant Stone

Go to a granite supply yard and pick up a remnant stone slab, which is a leftover stone slab that was apart of a larger slab. You’re still getting high-quality kitchen countertops while also saving money to put towards other aspects of your kitchen.

Save the Scraps

On average, about 5-15% of renovation materials are leftover after the job’s done. Instead of throwing away the materials you paid for, use them to create little decor pieces, like cutting boards from pieces of granite.

Refinish Floors

Even if you’ve already knocked down a few walls, patching up an existing wood floor before sanding it down and refinishing it can save you from replacing it entirely. Or, if you desperately need to replace that cracked tile or old vinyl, choose a less expensive flooring option like natural bamboo, porcelain or sealed cork.

Updating Cabinets

Painting kitchen cabinets instead of outright replacing them will help transform the atmosphere while saving a few dollars. You can mix up the paint for the upper and lower cabinets, or between the cabinets and the island if you’re planning on installing one. Add some new hardware and you have yourselves a new kitchen.

If painting isn’t enough of a change, try replacing some of the door inserts with clear or frosted glass. Refacing cabinets is much cheaper than replacing them, and it's a do-it-yourself project that won't take weeks to finish. You can even get fancy and choose a textured, coloured or patterned glass to really customize your kitchen cabinets.

At Woodhaven Kitchens, we offer a variety of products that include door, drawers and cabinet shells, constructed using the finest woods. Located in Newmarket, Ontario, our experienced craftsmen work with kitchens, bathroom vanities, wall units and custom built-ins. We strongly believe that our products will meet your expectations, as we strive to satisfy our clients by providing the highest standards of craftsmanship with quality service. We’ll cater to your needs and bring your ideas to life as we take care of the entire process, from construction to installation. Call or email us today.

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Blog3: Colour Schemes to Brighten Your Kitchen

Having a bright and airy kitchen can make anyone feel welcome in the space. There are several ways to make you and your family feel warm in your kitchen, any time of the day. Here are a few colour palettes that will help you achieve that if you feel like your cooking space is a bit too dreary.

Bright and White

White with a bright accent colour will freshen up any kitchen. Whether it's your walls you choose to paint one of the hundreds of shades of white available, or your cabinets (or both), choose whatever accent colour you please. Just make sure it’s something you love, or you may get tired of it fast. Yellows or greens bring balance and happiness to any room, but especially in a kitchen when you're working hard to make a delicious dinner for your family or guests. This accent colour doesn’t have to be incorporated through paint, it can be used in dish towels, plates and cups, small kitchen appliances, whatever you desire.

Lively Pastels

Brighter pastel shades can do surprisingly well in a kitchen. Much like yellow and green, pastel pinks, blues, peaches and more can add a feeling of joy that makes you want to stay in there all day long. No one wants a kitchen that feels dark and depressing, one you wouldn’t want to step foot in for more than a few minutes. Use these colours in addition to white details to avoid having your kitchen feel more like a giant children’s playset. Either paint or have pastel decorations but don't forget to add a light neutral for balance.

All the Colours

If you want a bright kitchen with personality, but don't think just white will do it, then trying going outside the box with a rainbow of colours. Use brighter neutrals, or even darker ones, for flooring and cabinets while going wild everywhere else. You can choose multiple tints and shades of one colour, or mix and match several through dishware, small appliances, artwork, towels, whatever you want. If you want the most colour possible but start to feel overwhelmed, try sticking with colours in a warm palette, such as reds, oranges and yellows, or cooler tones like blues, greens and purples.

Fancy Neutrals

Who said neutrals have to be boring? If you have a kitchen with darker cabinets or flooring, stick with warmer, yellow or orange based colours to brighten the space up. Or for even more contrast, go lighter with a warm, creamy shade of white paint. If you have light neutrals throughout your cabinets, then do the reverse. Darker tones on your walls will make your custom cabinets pops, the detail in them on display for all to admire. Pick decor and accessories that are slightly darker or lighter than your walls or cabinets.

To aid in your newly painted kitchen, Woodhaven Kitchens offers custom build cabinets, wall units and built-in shelving. Located in Port Coquitlam, British Columbia, we know our products, which also include doors, drawers and cabinet shells, will meet your expectations because we strive to make your our clients are satisfied. Woodhaven Kitchen provides the highest standard of craftsmanship with quality service. Call or email us, as we take care of the entire building process. From construction to installation, we’re passionate about bringing your ideas to life.

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Blog4: Kitchen design tips for the elderly

Whether you are looking to move your parents into a new home or are yourself looking for more accessible options, redesigning a kitchen can significantly improve most people's' lives. A few tweaks here and thoughtful planning there can make everyday tasks quick and simple. Here are some useful tips to make your kitchen more efficient:

Ensure floors are slip resistant

Choose flooring that does not get slick when spilled on to reduce the chances of a fall. Porcelain tile is a good option because it absorbs less moisture than ceramic and other flooring materials, and is easy to clean and maintain. Vinyl is another good option because it too is slip resistant and feels softer on feet. Floor tiling should have enough texture and grout to grip feet reliably.

Install a pull out pantry

These are useful for people of all ages. It allows you to see everything without shuffling around for items. Easy access drawers also give you access to cereal boxes and canned food without straining your knees or back. You can even put heavy portable appliances like slow cookers and blenders in it.

Remember clearance space

The standard clearance space between, appliances, walls, and cabinets is 36 inches. This amount of space is enough to move comfortably in a walkway and access doors and drawers. Although, if the kitchen needs to accommodate a wheelchair, this space will need to be bigger. U-shaped kitchen should have at least 60 inches of clearance space between opposing appliances, walls, and cabinets. Pass through, or galley kitchens should have at least 40 inches of space between opposing surfaces.

Avoid corners

Pick open shelves and countertops with round edges. A kitchen filled with 90-degree angles will increase the likelihood of bruises and bumps.

Make corners accessible

While avoiding outward corners, make inward corners easier to access. Look for corner cabinet options that do not require someone to get on all fours to reach for items. Opt for a three-drawer base or a traditional Lazy Susan. Corner cabinets can provide ample space, but make that space easy to utilize as well.

Keep the stove and sink close together

It is difficult to carry big pots of water between the sink and stove as we get older. If any water spills on the way, it also becomes a slipping hazard. It is also best to leave some counter space between the sink and stove so that you have somewhere to set the pot down. You could also have the sink and stove across from each other if that works better in your kitchen.

Choose a shallow sink

Buy one that is only six to eight inches deep as it would be much easier to wash dishes and rinse vegetables in a shallow basin.

Pick drawers over doors

Drawers can easily display all of your utensils and flatware while being accessible. No need to get on your hands and knees to peer into the back of a cabinet. Deep set drawers can stow plenty of pans and pots.

Pick traditional over trendy

If you want to design an accessible kitchen, skip the ornate refrigerator panels, angled counter, and decorative legs. These accents are eye-catching, but can also turn your kitchen into an obstacle course. People will be more likely to bumps their knees and hips against cabinetry and appliances.

Put the microwave at or below counter height

Having this appliance at counter height will eliminate the need to bend or reach above your shoulders. If you want to save counter space, you could put the microwave under the counter instead. It is easier to place a heavy plate down than it is to lift it above your shoulders. Spills are also more likely if you have to reach up to remove a hot plate - having a microwave under prevents burns. Using a microwave drawer is the best option, you can see the control panel better and access is from the top, not the front.

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Blog 5: Tips for Planning a gallery kitchen

Fitting for many kitchen styles, the double run that creates a galley kitchen is preferred by professional chefs and homeowners alike. It’s safe and efficient while cooking and can be customized to fit any and all of your needs. Are you thinking of installing a galley kitchen in your home? Then here’s what you need to know when planning it out.

Evaluate Your Space

Galley kitchens are best suited for small spaces but can look gorgeous is medium-sized kitchens as well. If the runs are placed too far apart, as they would be in a large space, then the efficiency of having a galley kitchen is lost. This kitchen style is ideal for professional use and enclosed areas without a dining space. With the right configuration, it can work to become a sociable room as well as a functional room, which can be accomplished in an open floor plan.

Symmetrical or Asymmetrical?

With a symmetrical galley kitchen, the countertops, cabinet design and appliances mirror one another as much as possible. An asymmetrical galley kitchen, on the other hand, allows for a variety of design approaches, including having a full wall of cabinets on one side or mixing tall and short units with a single running countertop on the other. You have a lot more options when it comes to designing an asymmetrical galley kitchen.

Work With the Corridor Space

While some galley corridors are closed off on one side, others link two rooms together, creating a functional hallway. If this is the case, then you’ll be looking at very high traffic space. This may not be a problem if you have one or two other people living with you, but it becomes progressively difficult to function in a kitchen constantly packed with people. If this is the only option for you, then consider implicating the safest layout possible, which includes having the sink and stove installed along the same side. This significantly reduces the chance of bumping into someone while turning about in the narrow space. You can also look at widening the corridor space if possible.

Accent Wall

If you have a galley kitchen that’s closed off on one end, don’t let that wall go to waste! There’s so much you can do to the wall to help it become a functional feature of the kitchen. You could turn it into a chalkboard wall for dinner suggestions or quick recipes you just threw together, or install shelving for more storage. Or even install a giant mirror to make the small space look twice the size.

Galley with an Island

Including an island into your galley kitchen will add the entertainment space you need. The island would sit where the opposite runner would be and be free of appliances like a sink or stove. This will reduce the amount of turning going on as well as providing a safe area for your guests to admire your cooking skills.Added Seating

Whether it’s at the island, a small peninsula or breakfast bar, you don’t have to worry about giving up seating space with this design choice. But don’t have your breakfast bar pushed out too much, or else the distance between both runs will be too great, affecting the efficiency of the kitchen as a whole.

Located in Greater Vancouver, British Columbia, Woodhaven Kitchens offers a wide variety of kitchen products which include custom cabinet designs, bathroom vanities and custom wall units. Manufactured using the finest materials with quality craftsmanship, we work to make sure our customers are fully satisfied with their purchase. From construction to installation, call us today to start designing your perfect kitchen with us!

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Blog 6: Guide to Kitchen Countertops

When renovating your kitchen, it’s hard to choose between the large variety of kitchen countertops that are on the market. Even looking within a certain price range or specific functionality can leave you with a handful of choices. Hopefully, this guide on the most common and unique countertops will help you to narrow down your search.

Tile

There are little to no limitations when it comes to installing a tile countertop. Choosing from a variety of colours, sizes, textures and more, these counters are completely customizable. It’s easily repaired and resistant to heat, although the grout needs to be cleaned often to keep the counters looking pristine. Tiles are also vulnerable to scratching, chipping or cracking.

Butcher Block

Whether it’s made from solid or environmentally friendly reclaimed wood, these countertops are a bit high maintenance for the convenient material. They need to be properly sealed on a regular basis and are vulnerable to stains, moisture and heat. However, it’ll make your kitchen feel cozy and warm.

Granite

Granite countertops are long lasting and extremely durable. It’s non-porous when properly sealed, making the natural stone resistant to staining, heat and scratches. This allows it to keep its shine. Granite comes in a variety of earthy tones, and as it’s a natural product, each slab is completely unique.

Marble

High maintenance and expensive, marble is a porous material that needs to be sealed or staining, scratches, chipping and other damages are guaranteed. However, it’s a beautiful material that goes with any kitchen decor and has excellent heat resistance.

Quartz

An engineered stone countertop that’s non-porous and one of the most durable countertop options. It’s easy to clean and resistant to heat, staining, scratches and bacterial growth. Being man-made means there’s an endless variety of colours, textures and finishes to choose from. It’s great for any kitchen style and doesn’t need to be sealed.

Concrete

A great option if you have an oddly shaped kitchen or countertop area, concrete counters are poured directly in your home. With different colours available, as well as the option to add other decor pieces, concrete allows for complete personalization. It also requires a sealant and regular maintenance.

Stainless Steel

The most hygienic, sterile option on this list, stainless steel is very durable, stain and heat resistant and non-absorbent. Unfortunately, scratches, dents and fingerprints are easily visible, but the easy to clean surface can be installed in a variety of kitchen designs.

Laminate

Laminate countertops are the cheapest material available, but that doesn’t make them lesser than its competitors. It’s resistant to staining and is easily cleaned. This durable material comes in a variety of colours and patterns but can be vulnerable to scratches.

Solid Surface

These countertops can easily resemble stone or concrete options thanks to the wide variety of colours, textures and finishes available. Practically maintenance free, solid surface countertops are resistant to staining, moisture damage and heat. Any damage can be easily repaired.

At Woodhaven Kitchens, we provide our customers with a variety of wood-crafted products, including doors, custom units and cabinet shells. Made from the quality materials, any area of your home is sure to benefit from one of our products. With high-quality service and customer satisfaction guaranteed, call or email us for more information.

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Blog 7: Tips to make your kitchen look luxurious

You do not have to shell out a lot of money to make your kitchen look luxurious and high-end. With a bit of creativity and effort, you can turn a modest, plain kitchen into something out of a home decor magazine. Here are some simple tricks to make the most of your kitchen renovation.

Light Fixtures

Lighting is everything, not only in film production but also when it comes to producing the perfect kitchen. Changing out the builders standard light fixtures for ones that are fancier can change the whole vibe of your kitchen. You do not even have to pick the most expensive lights either. Choose one that is a globe style made of silver or brass for a modern and hip look. Consider under cab lighting. Add dimmers switches to lighting.

Showcase Your Best Glassware

After all, you did pay quite a bit for it so you may as well feature your best stem and glassware front and centre. Guests will be so focused on it that they will not even notice your less exciting, practical dishware in the back.

Change the Backsplash

Show off your style by personalizing your backsplash to suit your taste. It is less of an expensive endeavour than most kitchen upgrades, and it marks your kitchen as much as cabinets do. Updating backsplash can even make older fixtures look more modern.

Add Real Fruit

It may seem cliched, but it really works to bring life to your kitchen. Fake fruit as props to decorate a kitchen looks obvious. Using real fruit in a basket as a centre piece adds a touch of much-needed colour in a neutral kitchen.

Use a Diffuser

Burning incense or candles adds a pleasant scent to your kitchen and can quickly eliminate strong cooking odours. Choose scents associated with luxury like clove or lavender to fill your kitchen. It will not set you back too much money, but people will notice.

Get a Rug

Adding texture and colour to your kitchen with a rug is an easy way to liven up the area without sacrificing space. You could try placing an oriental-styled runner between your counter and island with a contrasting colour. It will also feel nice on your feet when you spend hours prepping food in the kitchen.

Go Big

Wall art can brighten up any room, but big wall art can do it better. Over-the-top and luxury go hand in hand. Consider investing in a print or painting that fills an entire wall for a statement-making piece.

Natural Light

Optimize the natural light in your kitchen to its fullest extent. Sunlight can make a room appear larger than it is. Use sheer and light-coloured curtain or blinds for your kitchen windows and keep them open during the day. A kitchen filled with natural light will look and feel inviting and expensive.

You do not have to spend a lot of money to upgrade your kitchen. For help with your kitchen project, call Woodhaven Kitchens and let us help guide you with our years of experience.

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Blog 8: Ideal Countertop materials for your Kitchen

Whether you’re completely renovating your kitchen or simply replacing the countertops, making a decision on which material you want to be installed can be overwhelming. There are a variety of options on the market that hit different price points and offer their own pros and cons. To help make your decision a bit easier, here are seven of the more popular countertop materials and what you need to know about them.

Granite

By far one of the most popular countertop materials around, granite is a natural stone that has stood the test of time. Highly durable, heavy duty and non-porous when sealed, this countertop will last for decades. The variety of earthy colour options allow it to fit beautifully into several different kitchen aesthetics.

Engineered Quartz

When you choose a quartz countertop, you’ll have a variety of colour and texture options to choose from. This engineered product made of recycled stone, pigments and resin is highly durable, non-absorbent and eco-friendly.

Porcelain

Another new engineered counter. There is a variety of colour and texture options to choose from. This engineered product is basically a large tile cut & mounted on plywood is highly durable, non-absorbent and eco-friendly.

Tile

The number of tile designs, colours and sizes available on the market seem to be endless, making it the perfect option to suit any kitchen aesthetic. The most popular tile options are ceramic and stone, both very durable and easy to install or repair. The only thing you’ll have to watch out for is keeping the grout clean.

Laminate

This is an incredibly affordable countertop option that can imitate any material on this list. Easy to clean and available in a wide range of colours, textures and patterns, you’ll be able to customize the look of your kitchen even more with this choice.

Marble

If you want a classic and modern look for your kitchen, you can’t go wrong with marble countertops. Particularly in all white kitchens, marble adds character without taking away from the simplicity of the overall design. These kitchen countertops need to be sealed and maintained regularly to keep them looking brand new.

Butcher Block

Installing solid wood kitchen countertops in your house will create a warm and cozy aesthetic that will consistently bring people together. While not a common countertop option, high-quality wood can be installed and sealed in no time. Butcher block counters can be a bit high maintenance at times but the beauty of them is worth it.

Recycled Glass

These countertops bring in a superior aesthetic that will add interest to any kitchen design. While a bit pricey depending on where you go, it’s an environmentally friendly choice that allows you to customize the look to create a unique kitchen of your own.

Solid Surface

These countertops are acrylic, can be easily machined into unique shapes if required, with invisible seams. This is not a stone, is still non porous, does not need sealing and can be repaired if damaged. Also a large selection available

AtWoodhaven Kitchens , we provide our customers with a variety of products, which include drawers, doors and custom cabinets all made from quality materials, as well as bathroom vanities, custom built-ins and more. We strive to make sure our customers are 100% satisfied with our craftsmanship, as we work to meet your expectations to the fullest. Our experienced tradesmen will take you through the entire process, from construction to installation, so give us a call to get started on your project today.

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Blog 9: How to Make Your Kitchen Look like a Professional Space

It’s the little things that can separate your kitchen from a professional, high-end space. Whether it’s the paint colour, the decor or the mass of appliances, there are simple fixes to change that. Here are eight things you can do today to make your kitchen look more professional.Update Cabinet Hardware

A simple fix that will make all the difference, change out the hardware on your cabinet doors to give them an updated feel. Match accent finishes from other rooms or buy something completely unique to your style.Use Lighter Colours

Repainting your kitchen will always be an affordable and impactful way of taking your kitchen to the professional level. Use lighter colours to brighten up the space, making it feel much larger than it actually is. Lighter colours will reflect more light and minimize the look of scratches or dents.Hang Artwork

Hanging a piece of artwork you love is the perfect way to elevate your kitchen. Go big and bold in whatever you choose, as it will create the illusion of a bigger space. Are you a renter and don’t have the freedom to paint or customize your home? Then this is an excellent solution for you.Change Lighting Fixtures

Excellent for changing the mood of your kitchen and brightening up the space, changing out your light fixtures is a simple task that makes all the difference. Whether you choose an elaborate chandelier or modern, minimalist pendant light, it will be an unexpected element that speaks to your personality.Paint-on Stainless Steel?

Do you have outdated appliance but not enough in the bank to replace them all with stainless steel ones? Then a solution for you is to use a paint-on stainless steel finish! This will give your appliances, and overall kitchen, an updated feel without breaking the budget. Just make sure you’re using the right liquid for the right machine.Style the Nook

If you have a breakfast nook or a small, cozy corner in your kitchen design, spice it up with some throw pillows and a blanket. If you have a small table, add a centrepiece to make it look more inviting for guest or family members.Update Your Decor

Change out that old fake fruit bowl or unused cookie jar and replace it with something more modern. Made subtle changes that are also useful in the kitchen as opposed to cluttering up the space.Hide Smaller Appliances

Cluttered countertops are a surefire way to make any kitchen look smaller and unprofessional. That’s why we suggest clearing off your countertops, placing whatever rarely unused appliances you own in pantry or cupboard. For more frequently used appliances, store them below the counter for easy access on a daily basis.

At Woodhaven Kitchens, we provide our customers with good quality products that include kitchen cabinets, drawers, kitchen countertops, built-ins and more. Located in Port Coquitlam, British Columbia, we strive to make sure our customers are 100% satisfied with our work. We’ll do our best to meet your expectations, walking you through the entire process, from kitchen design and construction to installation. Be sure to give us a call and get your project started today!

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Blog 10: Best Kitchen Innovation in 2019

There is hardly a realm of modern life that have stayed devoid from the influence of technology. There is no surprise that our home interiors are being largely influenced by the influx of technological products which aim to make our lives easy. Here are some of the best kitchen innovations that are making heads turn as homemakers gear up to make their kitchens even more functional and techno-savy.

Lighting

Technology lighting has become quite common in most modern houses. With lighting systems that embody a beautifully modern, functional and aesthetically pleasing feel to your home, most of these lighting systems work splendidly with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. Whether it is switching the lights on, dimming, changing colours or something else, one can easily integrate these kinds of features in the modern lighting system thanks to technological advancement. Whether you wish to have a brightly lit dining experience of a romantic date, you can change the ambience with a click of a button or a simple voice command.

Water monitoring system

Apart from washrooms, another area of your home that uses a lot of water is in the kitchen. Without even realizing, when water leaks and damages start to occur in your kitchen, you can be looking at substantial repair or replacement costs and high water bills. Thanks to a technologically advanced water monitoring system, you can stay aware of any water leaks and damages that may happen in your kitchen. This sophisticated device runs automated daily tests to ensure that your plumbing system is running efficiently. It also comes with a connected app that can help you monitor real-time usage and troubleshoot as soon as problems occur.

Smart display

If you have not used the smart display feature available with a technological product that offers multiple functions to home cooks, you are missing out on something incredible. With a smart display for home cooks, this Android powered device is powered with many features like step-by-step recipe cooking and IPX-5 water-resistance rating. You can even view personalized recipes and get updates on the latest recipes and cooking tips.

Wi-Fi enabled kitchen appliances

A Wi-Fi enabled kitchen oven is the world’s first-ever smart combination double wall oven that offers the facility to cook two different meals at two distinct temperatures. Talk about multi-tasking and faster cooking, nothing can beat the class and promptness that this oven brings to you. What more with an inbuilt cleaning mechanism, you can simply set the oven to self-clean once you are done. All in all, it makes your cooking quick, effective and mess-free.

When it comes to upgrading your kitchen, there are many new options available for homeowners today. Whether you are looking at saving time, getting more work done or automation, thanks to technology, today’s kitchen appliances can make your life supremely easy. If you are thinking about renovating your kitchen with the latest fittings, contact Woodhaven Kitchens Ltd., for a large range of innovative products that will make your kitchen look state-of-the-art and your cooking experience an easy affair.

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Blog 11: Must-Know Tips On How To Choose A Kitchen Countertop

Whether you’re doing an entire home revamp or just remodelling the kitchen, your kitchen countertops are a top priority! With endless options to choose from, it can feel nearly impossible to narrow down your countertop choices and ultimately choose one. There are, however, certain factors that must be considered to ensure that the countertop you select is an appropriate fit.

Luckily, you don’t have to go through this journey alone. Woodhaven Kitchens has the must-know tips on choosing a kitchen countertop for you to follow:

Choosing A Material That Fits Your Needs and Budget

Maybe you’ve done a bit of browsing online on various kitchen countertop materials and how they fit in with other home remodels. This is a practical approach, but even if the material you desire fits perfectly in another person’s kitchen, it may not be the suitable choice for yours. Each surface material has a different price tag and can be low maintenance, to high end and requiring more care. We’ve separated the countertop types in categories of inexpensive to high end and detailed the maintenance associated:

Inexpensive Materials:

Laminate: Cost-effective material that is glued to a medium-density fibreboard. Extremely low maintenance as the surface is easy to clean and nonporous.
Ceramic Tile: Similar durability as natural stone, but far more affordable. There are a variety of colours and patterns ceramic tile can come in. However, this material is high maintenance due to the grout joints.
Wood: Adds a warmer, rustic look to the kitchen that stone cannot and is much more cost-effective. Maintenance requires oiling every two years and frequent upkeep.
Solid Surface: Corian ,countertops are scratch resistant and stain resistant which can cut down on maintenance.

High-End Materials:

Recycled Glass: A unique combination of cement and glass that is durable and eco-friendly. A high end choice with a $100-$160 per square foot price tag.
Concrete: Durable and also very versatile for contemporary homes, yet vulnerable to staining.
Marble: The ultimate in elegance, marble countertops are highly priced but require regular maintenance.
Quartz: Able to last a lifetime when cared for properly and look visually appealing at a high square foot price.

Consider the Estimates

It helps to bring flooring samples or cabinet colours to make the countertop selection process easier. Narrowing down a countertop that goes with your design will make it easier to determine the cost for the job. It’s also important to find out the countertop measurements based on the thickness of the material before you buy.

At Woodhaven Kitchens, we have a wide inventory of outstanding kitchen countertops at our Port Coquitlam store. It’s our goal to enhance your kitchen space for optimal living with a touch of luxury. From design to installation employed by our professionals, we ensure high-quality results each time. Take a virtual tour of the past kitchen countertops we’ve installed or browse through our gallery to see our work!

We’d also love to hear from you and any inquiries you have, so feel free to send us a message on our Contact Us page!

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Blog 12 Why You Should Choose Granite Countertops

Granite is a very popular choice when it comes to countertops and it’s no secret why. Not only is it durable, it is a natural stone meant to last a lifetime, so you don’t have to worry about a replacement and can enjoy your countertop for a very long time. Different styles are available, so whether your kitchen is traditional in design or modern, you will be able to find exactly what you’re looking for because of the variety of options that are available with granite products.

If you want a countertop that is unique, granite is definitely the right choice. Every single slab is one of a kind, so you can choose to make your countertop the focal point of a room or have it blend in with the other components of your kitchen. Granite is a natural stone with crystals that form in it, meaning no two slabs will be the same so you can have a countertop that is truly unique and because there are so many possibilities when it comes to colours and patterns, each piece will be different. Shades like black, white and gray are common colours you will see in granite slabs but you can also get greens, blues and even browns if that is what you’re after.

Granite is hard and durable, meaning you won’t have to worry about any damage. You want to be able to use your countertop comfortably without the fear of damaging it while cooking or ruining it through the daily chaos that goes on in your home; granite allows you to eliminate all of these worries because it is extremely durable. If you seal your granite countertop properly, you won’t have to worry about scratches, stains, wear and tear, and heat because granite has the power to resist these things.

Low maintenance is another advantage that comes with granite countertops and cleaning it is very easy, which is perfect for your busy lifestyle. You don’t want a countertop that requires hours of cleaning and granite allows you to keep your countertop looking brand new through the use of mild soap, warm water and a soft cloth, making the cleaning process quick and easy. Granite sealers should be applied from time to time but this is also very easy to do.

If you want a beautiful and luxurious looking countertop that is unique and requires very little maintenance, granite is definitely the answer and Woodhaven Kitchens can help! Located in Port Coquitlam, they can assist with every aspect, including kitchen design, cabinets and countertops, so if you’re ready for the kitchen of your dreams, contact them today!

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Blog 13 Making a Small Kitchen Look Spacious

If your dream kitchen is one that is spacious but you just don’t have the room to make this a reality, the good news is that there are certain tricks you can apply to make your small kitchen look bigger. Careful design planning and a little creativity will help you transform your small kitchen by creating the illusion of a bigger space while maximizing every bit of the area that is available.

The first thing to consider is the colours in your kitchen. Darker colours will always make a space seem smaller and your kitchen may feel crampe. White and other light neutrals will always make your kitchen feel bigger and this is your best bet if you want to play it safe. If you want to get creative, you can incorporate dark cabinets with lighter wall colours and counters or even have dark walls if the rest of the kitchen is neutral. With the right design, anything is possible and you can have dark colours if you do it right. For a look that’s modern and spacious, white kitchens are the answer and have always been popular due to the timeless design they provide.

Other elements like glass cabinet door inserts, open wall shelving and glass or mirror tiles in your backsplash will also create the illusion of a bigger space. Closed cabinets can make your kitchen feel very small as will clutter on your open shelves, so don’t fill them up with too many items and stick to simple glassware or white coloured china to keep your kitchen clean and spacious.

If you want to do something more drastic, you can always open up a wall if your kitchen allows for it. This will transform your kitchen completely and instantly make it feel bigger. You can also consider a pass-through or sit down counter, which will provide you with a fantastic entertaining area as well as more storage, in addition to a bigger space.

Keep it simple when it comes to décor and cabinet door styles because overly decorative elements are overwhelming for a small space and will not accomplish spaciousness the way that minimal and clean designs can. Integrated appliances will also help your kitchen look larger, especially if they match the colour of your cabinets, which will enhance both the design and space.

Tackling kitchen design is not an easy task and choosing the right elements can be tough, which is why you need the professional advice and expertise of Woodhaven Kitchens in Port Coquitlam. From the design aspect to cabinets and countertops, they have it all, so if you want your dream kitchen to become a reality, visit them today!

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Blog 14 How to Survive The Kitchen Remodelling Process

So you’ve decided to do a kitchen renovation… now what? There are a number of things you should do to make sure that it is a smooth process. Below we list some ways that you can prepare yourself and your family for a kitchen remodel.

Pack & Organize

The first thing you will want to do is get some boxes, storage bins and markers, so you can put away the kitchen items that you do not on a daily basis. Once you’ve separated the things that you will need from those that you can live without during the renovation process, you should think about how you will keep the surrounding areas of your kitchen clean. There will be a considerable amount of dirt in your house during the renovation process, so you may want to invest in covers for your floors and furniture, and seal off all the doorways leading to nearby rooms.

Set Up a Temporary Kitchen

While you’re remodelling your kitchen, you still have to eat, so it’s important that you set up space to make quick and easy meals. You may think that you’ll be able to survive on take-out, but not only can that be costly, but issues may arise during the renovation process, which may prolong the project. Having small kitchen items like microwaves, hot plate and toaster ovens at your disposal during the renovation process will not only help you save money but will be very useful if your project goes on for longer than expected.

Track The Progress

Tracking the progress of your renovation project will be helpful for your own peace of mind. Not only can it get overwhelming, but annoying having people in your home all day. Tracking your progress will ensure that you are on top of your kitchen renovations, and can guestimate when they will be completed.

Plan For The Worst

During any renovation, you can expect setbacks. Here are some of the common problems homeowners encounter during a kitchen renovation:
        - Products not arriving on time
        - Much bigger mess than anticipated
        - Structural issues that require immediate repairs
        - Missing or damaged equipment
        It’s important to be patient and accept any challenges that may arise during the progression of your project.

Keep Busy (and Out of Your Home)

The renovation process can be messy and hazardous, especially for small children and animals. You want to plan some day trips to visit family, or even consider getting a pet-sitter.

For your kitchen renovation needs, contact Woodhaven Kitchens. From the planning stage to executing, we have the knowledge and expertise to ensure that your kitchen renovation is a smooth process.

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Blog 15 10 Easy Steps to Design your Kitchen Island

Your kitchen island is the heart of your kitchen. Below, we give you 10 kitchen island ideas that will make your kitchen look more stunning, and will have you never wanting to be in any other room in your home.

Add More Counter Space

Having extra counter space will be beneficial for you. Not only does it make things easier for you to store, but you’ll also have the space to cook meals with your loved ones.

Add More Seating

Putting low profile seating to your kitchen island is a simple way to add practicality.

Incorporate Your Kitchen Island With Your Appliances

Incorporating your kitchen island will with your appliances maximizes your kitchen space.

Baskets!

Baskets are a great way to add additional storage to your kitchen. With many sizes and shapes on the market, you’ll be able to find one that can hold whatever extra things you have lying around to decrease clutter.

Reconsider Your Island’s Purpose

Adding a table to your kitchen island is a contemporary approach to elevating its uses. An extendable table attached to your island will be great for those who enjoy entertaining or have larger families, without occupying an excessive amount of space every day.

Install A Waterfall Island

A waterfall island is when your kitchen island material continues down the sides of the cabinets, which creates a cascading effect.

Don’t Be Afraid To Mix Marble And Metal

A mix of materials will elevate your kitchen. Marble and metal work very well together, regardless of the types that you choose. You can go with white marble with gold or silver, or dark marble with a rusted metal, depending on your style and the hardware in the other rooms of your home.

Mirrored Surface

A reflected kitchen island is a nice touch even in the most basic of the kitchen. A mirrored surface will make your kitchen appear larger, and a great way to idea kitchen island occupying a large amount of space in your kitchen.

Add Lighting

It is a well-known fact in the design world that lighting can transform a space altogether. LED lights are great for kitchen islands with overhangs for pots.

Make A Statement With Bright Bar Stools

Don’t be afraid to experiment with colour when upgrading your kitchen. Whether you like brighter colours or something dark and cooler, there are many options available that will work for you.

For all of your kitchen renovations needs, contact us at Woodhaven Kitchen. Whether you are in the beginning stages of the renovation process or in the installation step, we can step in and take care of it all. Call us today to get started!

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Blog 16 How to Plan Your Space in a Kitchen Remodelling

Remodelling a kitchen is a lot of work and planning the space is one of the most important steps of this process. The following tips will help you plan your kitchen space properly so that you can create the perfect design:

Make A Plan For The Layout

Before you start picking cabinets and colours, focus on the space because this is what is most important. Coming up with the right layout should be your priority, so determine what appliances you want and where your appliances will go.Decide on the shape of the kitchen, whether you have room for an island, for example. You need to have a floor plan/ layoutfirst so you can move forward.Your layout must make sense and be convenient for you. A kitchen designer should be able to provide you with different layout options based on your space. This way, you can explore and choose from a few different possibilities. Some companies or independent designers will charge for this service.

Get Some Estimates

Once you have a floor plan, you should contact a few contractors to do a site visit and provide you with an estimate. Remember that the more information you can provide, the more accurate the estimate will be, so try to have a detailed plan in hand. A designer can provide you with a schematic electrical and lighting plan which assists the contractor with providing a more accurate estimate. It’s natural for some elements to change but you will still have an idea of the costs before you start so that you know where you stand. Contact different contractors and compare the estimates you receive to see which one is most suitable for your budget, also you must be comfortable and confident with your contractor selection.

Develop Detailed Drawings

Once you have a plan you love and you have finalized the space and the layout, you can move on to other elements which your designer can provide providing you with 3D drawings and elevations so that you can visualize your new kitchen. You can even note where your spices, pots, silverware and utensils will go if you wish to get more specific. The first few steps of the planning process require you to be practical and functional but this stage of the process will allow you to be more creative, so you can have fun and can be more artistic because you can focus on colours, designs, materials and finishes.

Woodhaven Kitchens can help you come up with a kitchen design that you love! We can help with every aspect, from countertops to cabinets, so if you are in the Tri-Cities, give us a call today!

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Blog 17 Top Kitchen Cabinet Styles, Colours & Trends

If you’re planning on renovating or remodelling your kitchen, there are so many fun and exciting ideas you can consider. There are a ton of kitchen cabinet styles to choose from and the new trends and colours will help you transform your kitchen from boring to stylish in no time!

If you want to incorporate stylish elements into your new kitchen, consider some of these trends:

Kitchen Larders

What was once used to store and preserve foods is now becoming a stylish piece that can be used as a stand-alone cupboard or pantry. You can choose one that is large if you want to store the majority of your dry goods there or you can choose a smaller one so that you can keep your items organized without taking up a lot of your valuable space. This piece will look great next to your cabinets and will complement your overall kitchen design.

Reclaimed Wood look

This option is becoming more and more popular for kitchen cabinetry and in addition to its beautiful appearance, this natural material is also eco-friendly. There is a selection of manufactured materials that look and feel like the real thing, also an option to consider.

Wallpaper

If you want your cabinets to stand out, consider kitchen wallpaper behind your cabinetry, which would complement them and allow them to pop. There are a number of options to choose from, including graphic designs that can mimic the look of tile. If you’re scared about the permanency of wallpaper, you can try peel-and-stick paper options instead, which are also available in a number of trendy designs.

Wine and Plate Racks

You don’t have to have cabinets all around and can incorporate wine &plate racks into your design as well. Vintage plate racks, in particular, are becoming very popular because they are visually appealing and add character. You can display your beautiful dishware instead of hiding them.

Mix and Match

Do not focus on matching all of your kitchen elements together because this is a concept of the past and mix and match items instead for a modern and trendy appearance. This is a great idea when it comes to metals and you can mix nickel knobs with brass faucets, for example, and then choose a completely different metal for your lighting fixtures.

Woodhaven Kitchens can provide you with more ideas and inspiration. We can help with every aspect of your kitchen design, including your cabinets and countertops, so if you are the Tri-Cities and are ready for your dream kitchen, give us a call now!

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