God help me! When I told my husband that I wanted to redo my kitchen, I was thinking that our Formica counter-tops were starting to fall apart, my fridge was not big enough to accommodate the amount of food my teenage son was eating, and in today’s real estate market it wouldn’t hurt to increase the value of our house. Little did I know what redoing my kitchen actually means! It means choices: Which of the many kinds of stone counter-tops would match best with our dark cedar cabinets? If I get a sub-zero fridge, which model should I get? And my FAVORITE dilemma (try to sense the sarcasm here), which appliance pulls do I get? That’s right—for my new, fancy, high-end appliances, my interior decorator recommended that I buy appliance pulls that match the rest of my kitchen. Any excuse to spend more money right?

So for those who were as confused as I was by “appliance pulls,” let me explain. Appliance pulls are essentially appliance handles, used to open fridges, freezers, ovens etc. Appliance pulls are a little longer than knobs, and therefore make pulling open a heavy fridge door a little easier. But the need to buy separate appliance pulls, as opposed to the ones that come with the appliances you ordered, arises when you hire an interior decorator from the Upper West Side! No—I’m kidding. The truth is, when you buy higher-end products, like the sub-zero that my son desperately needs, apparently the manufacturer leaves the refrigerator handles up to you! After all, if you’re going to splurge on a sub-zero, you want it to match with the rest of the kitchen hardware you spent ridiculous amounts of money on!

I know I’m sounding cynical, which I shouldn’t be because in reality my kitchen looks amazing. Though I was sorely tempted by the elegant bronze pull, my decorator convinced me to go with nickel pulls–the silvery-whiteness of the nickel matched so beautifully with my new stone counter-tops, and my whole kitchen seems to shine. But this should be a warning to all soon-to-be redecorating women (or men): appliance pulls is a business!! A good hardware pull pulls your kitchen together (pun slightly intended)! So good luck finding them! And don’t forget to match your new appliance pulls with equally convenient cabinet pulls; according to my decorator, cabinet pulls are the new cabinet knobs. Who would have guessed?! Enjoy your new kitchen!

Remember the TV show ‘Friends?’ I certainly hope so–it didn’t end that long ago, they still show reruns, and it was one of the best shows on television, at least in my opinion. I personally was, and in fact still am, a huge fan of that show. I own all ten seasons on DVD, and can often be found throwing in a quote from one episode or another. Some of my favorite episodes took place in season two when Chandler got a new roommate, Eddie. While Eddie was only around for few episodes, they were memorable! To put it nicely, Eddie had more than a few screws loose. In the last episode in which he made an appearance, Eddie had a new hobby: dehydrating food! In fact, in his words, he was a “dehydrating maniac!!” In much of that episode, Eddie could be seen standing behind what looked to be a 5 tray food dehydrator, loading different fruits and vegetables onto it, and providing an indignant Chandler with the results.

That episode was extremely comical. At one point, Eddie didn’t just dehydrate food, he wanted to see what would happen if he dehydrated a water balloon! I don’t recommend that, because you don’t want to ruin your food dehydrator. But dehydrating vegetables, and even fruit, can provide you with delicious results. Sun-dried tomatoes are delicious in salads and on sandwiches, and you can make your own if you own a food dehydrator. Produce your own raisins by dehydrating grapes! Dehydrating food is delicious, healthy, and if Eddie’s testimony means anything, a lot of fun! There is definitely more to be learned about the details of food dehydrators, but when you have enough information, get your own and you too can become a dehydrating maniac!

Enjoy Kitchen Cart Islands & More

Not everyone can afford to renovate a kitchen in order to create more space. However, many people can afford update the look and efficiency of their space by adding a kitchen island. Kitchen islands are a fantastic addition to any kitchen as they create extra counter space, extra seating space, and extra cabinet space. If you compare what you would have spent with kitchen renovations to the cost of purchasing kitchen cart islands, you realize how affordable and practical a portable kitchen island really is. Here are some great tips for getting the most out of your kitchen island.

1. Even a small kitchen can benefit from a kitchen island bar. Select a kitchen island that has seating room and place the kitchen island in the location where you would put a small kitchen table. Most small kitchen islands provide space for two to sit, and many even have a drop leaf extension, creating extra space for eating when you need it and folding out of the way when you don’t. In addition to the practical nature of kitchen islands, these drop leaf kitchen islands a trendy look for your kitchen space.

2. For a larger kitchen, consider purchasing a butcher block kitchen island. This type of island provides ample extra counter space instantaneously providing you with more elbow room for cutting vegetables, preparing food, and the like. The butcher block kitchen island creates a great work surface and expands the counter space without having to renovate. Many of these kitchen island designs also have wheels making it easy to transport garbage or heavy items to their proper locating without straining your back.

3. Wine rack islands create additional counter space while giving your wine collection a comfortable home in the kitchen. Storing bottles of wine in wine rack islands add a burst of color to any kitchen and is a practical way to avoid having overstuffed cabinets or the clutter of a wine rack.

4. Finally, consider the incredible benefits provided by kitchen island cabinets. Many spacious kitchen islands have cabinet space below the work surface. These kitchen island cabinets create extra storage space for everything from vegetables to paper goods to dry goods. You’ll feel like you’ve added an entire new row of kitchen cabinets to your kitchen just with the addition of these kitchen island.

Whether you’re thinking of designing an entirely new kitchen, or simply giving a face-lift to an old one, you’ll encounter many details.  Each decision seems monumental and time consuming when you’re in the process.  One of these discussions revolves around cabinet hardware.  What are the advantages to cabinet hardware pulls and what would lure you towards cabinet hardware knobs?  This small detail, and the answers to this question, can make a large difference for you in your kitchen hardware selection.

 When are Cabinet Hardware Pulls the Best Answer?

 Hardware pulls give your hand a larger space for grabbing the door or cabinet and for supporting the hand in the process.  In general, this means that cabinet hardware pulls better suit large drawers.  This would include not only large drawers per se, but also that must bear heavy items and need extra support for the hand.  Since pulls attach in two places, they offer extra support for pulling out heavy drawers.  In addition, pulls add a stylish touch to your cabinetry.  Since they are larger in size than knobs, pulls generally have more ornate designs on them, and can be found in many design shapes and materials.  Finally, if you’re doing renovations but not completely remodeling a new kitchen, then consider the other kitchen hardware that will exist side by side with these pulls.  Many people like to have complementary cabinet hardware in the kitchen.  Therefore, if you already have pulls in certain places that you do not intend to replace, you may want to continue with this stylistic choice.  If, however, you like an eclectic look, then you might prefer to mix and match for a funky overall appeal.

Sticking with Cabinet Hardware Knobs

For a classic, traditional look, cabinet hardware knobs never go out of style.  In addition to regular round knobs, today you’ll find fun and funky knob designs.  If you enjoy shapes, you’ll find square, oval, and diamond knobs, just to name a few.  In addition, you can combine a kitchen theme with your cabinet hardware, enjoying knobs of virtually any theme from cowboy knobs to animal knobs.  Knobs are generally found on smaller drawers and work best with cabinets that aren’t very heavy, as they pull from only one location.  They are easy to grip, but they do not cover as large an area as do pulls. 

When debating between cabinet knobs and cabinet pulls, it’s important to factor this cabinet hardware discussion into your decision.  Consider how you work best in the kitchen; evaluate the size and weight of your drawers and their function; and analyze your style preferences.  With these ideas in mind, you should be ready to find the right kitchen hardware for your specific needs.

Thinking about redoing your kitchen? Trying to decide where to spend and where to splurge? What styles you love and which you could live without? The process involves so many choices, but they don’t all need to be difficult. Knowing your options can help make the decision making process easier- and that’s why I’m here to help. Since I’ve already discussed granite countertops, I’d like to bring another idea to your attention- specifically, that of Formica for kitchen countertops.

Formica is the brand name for a high-pressure laminate material that has been used for cabinet and countertop surfacing since the early 1900’s. Formica provides surfaces with a smooth, easy to clean finish. Because it is a man-made material, it is available in a plethora of colors that may not be achievable when using other materials. As such homeowners who want their kitchen to display a specific color should definitely consider Formica for kitchen countertops as a realistic and viable option.

My mother has had white Formica countertops for the past 15 years. And so, I’d like to share with you some of my personal experiences with Formica, so that you can better decide if you want Formica for your kitchen countertops. No sales pitches (I’m actually undecided about whether or not I like Formica for kitchen countertops- I definitely think it’s fine for bathrooms), no pressure, just real life advice about how it was to live with Formica countertops- and how they look today, 15 years later (besides, I think I’ve already expressed my appreciation for granite countertops).

• Formica countertops are quite easy to clean. I must say that sometimes white Formica can get stained with something like carrots or tomato sauce, if not wiped within the first few minutes. That being said, it is extremely responsive to most standard household cleaners. Formica’s smooth surface makes it easy to wipe down and hard for dirt to get stuck in grooves- since there are none.

• Formica does get scorched when a hot pot is placed directly on it. This can ruin the uniform surface of your countertop. However, when taking this into consideration, it is also important to remember that most other countertop surfaces can also be damaged by a hot pot. The best option would be to keep trivets close at hand, so that no matter what countertop surface you choose it will stay in pristine condition.

• Consider using Formica for kitchen countertops if you want a seamless integration between your cabinet facing and your countertops. My mother has white cabinets and white countertops, and the look is quite nice, if you like the monochromatic look. On the other hand, because Formica is available in a myriad of colors, you can also enjoy the look of Formica with a pattern for a more lively look.

• Formica can chip if you’re not careful. Of course, granite can crack or chip as well. So can Caesar Stone. So can ceramic tile. I guess what I’m trying to say is that I wouldn’t disqualify Formica for your kitchen countertops based on this possibility.

Stay tuned for more kitchen countertop analysis in coming weeks…and feel free to weigh in on what type of countertop you think makes the most Bitchen Kitchen.

Organizing kitchen cabinets is a chore that most people don’t look forward to…but it doesn’t have to be. Not only can organizing kitchen cabinets be made easier with cabinet organizers, but it can be done relatively inexpensively if you know what to look for. Here are 5 of my favorite kitchen cabinet organizers that can help turn your messy space into a more bitchen kitchen.

1. Pull out trash cans- These handy gadgets are a great way to keep your trash out of site and out of mind. With a pull out trash can, you won’t have to trip over your garbage can or put up with any unpleasant odors. One of my favorite picks for approximately $75 is the Rev-A-Shelf 35 quart ¾ extension trash can.

2. Door mounted spice racks- Make the most of your cabinet space with a door mounted spice rack. Your spices will stay organized and easily within reach, and you won’t have to go rooting through the back of your cabinet to find the pepper. What could make your life easier?

3. Lazy Susans- If you’re lazy when it comes to keeping your kitchen cabinets tidy, a lazy Susan could be just what you need. With a lazy Susan (or maybe even two), your pots, pans, condiments, spices (and pretty much anything else) you need is only a spin away. Organizing kitchen cabinets is a breeze with lazy Susans because they maximize your space so that you have more space to put things- especially in those hard-to-reach corner cabinets. And, because many lazy Susans cost under $75, you should be able to find functional and stylish ones for each of your cabinets.

4. Wicker Baskets- Wicker baskets are a great way to add beauty and functionality to kitchen cabinets. They allow your produce to breathe and add a delightful and different look to any space. And with wicker baskets available in a variety of sizes and shapes, you’ll definitely find some that you’ll love (for a price you’ll love).
5. Pot and Pan Organizer-A Pot and pan organizer can make organizing kitchen cabinets a breeze, by creating defined spaces for your pots- and their lids- so that you can find each set easily.

   A truly bitchen kitchen is one that looks great both outside- and inside- the cabinets. With these affordable cabinet organizers you can be well on your way to having a tidier, more beautiful kitchen.

Kitchen lighting was the first type of lighting that I bought for my new home. Why? Because most people, myself included, spend the majority of their time at home in the kitchen. No longer is the kitchen just for eating- it’s for playing, homework, hanging out, washing dishes and maybe even watching TV. Each of these tasks requires a different type of light to ensure that you can complete your tasks as efficiently as possible. Choosing the proper kitchen lighting will not only make your space look fabulous, but it will make your kitchen a de-light-ful place to be.

The kitchen is a great place to use energy-efficient fluorescent light bulbs. Full-size fluorescent lights that are mounted directly under top cabinetry provide a wonderful light for those working at the kitchen counter. Fluorescent bulbs are now available in a myriad of different designs, making it possible to add beauty to these environmentally-friendly lights. Additionally, fluorescent bulbs last 10-20 times longer than standard incandescent bulbs, so that you can enjoy the light without having to change the bulb frequently. Fluorescent bulbs can be used both as general ceiling lighting as well as directed lighting that is mounted under the top cabinet to provide extra light for your workspace.

Track lighting is another beautiful way to get directed light for all your food preparation needs. If you know where you usually stand during food preparation, consider track lighting that will enable you to direct the light onto your favorite work areas. Beware that while track lighting is beautiful, it is not recommended for eating areas, as it does not provide sufficient general lighting.

Finally, ceiling fans are wonderful additions to any kitchen, as they provide not only light, but also ventilation necessary for most kitchens. Get rid of smoke or unwanted kitchen odors easily with a ceiling fan. Hang the fan over your table for lovely light when you are eating. With so many fabulous options, you will surely find a kitchen ceiling fan that will blow you away (not literally, of course!).

If you took a survey about what someone’s favorite part of their kitchen is, you’d probably get a variety of responses. I know people who are thrilled with their countertops, others who are in love with their bar height breakfast bar. I’ve even been told by some that their favorite part of their kitchen is the backsplash tiling, simply because of the obvious beauty it brings to the kitchen. But if you were to ask me what I love about my kitchen, I’d tell you it’s my kitchen table. You may find this a bit strange, but believe me, kitchen tables are some of the kitchen’s most practical and (potentially) beautiful items. Here are 4 reasons to love kitchen tables (who knows, you may end up loving them as much as I do).

1. Kitchen tables are the most versatile pieces of kitchen furniture. It goes without saying that most kitchen appliances and accessories have specifically defined uses. You’ll never be cooking in your refrigerator and you’ll certainly never be washing dishes in your oven. The kitchen table, however, can be used for a myriad of uses. Kitchen tables can be used for the following tasks, among others: homework, extra counter space for food preparation (or storing food as it cools down), a place for a lovely family meal, a place to entertain guests, a surface for your child’s art projects, a place to relax and watch TV (if you have one in the kitchen)…the options are almost endless.

2. Kitchen tables make every kitchen more beautiful. Whether they are swathed in beautiful tablecloths or standing gracefully in their natural state, kitchen tables have the ability to add a unique style element to any kitchen. Kitchen tables can match your countertops, contrast the rest of your kitchen or introduce an entirely new look.

3. With a kitchen table, there is no need to work alone in the kitchen. If food preparation bores or frustrates you, you’re in luck- a kitchen table will provide friends, family members and guests with a place to sit while you prepare your food, taking the boredom out of the process. Who knows- your companion may even want to pitch in a little!

4. Kitchen tables help to develop proper eating habits. In today’s day and age, more children (and adults) are becoming accustomed to meals on the run and eating in front of the television. Having a proper kitchen table creates place to eat slowly and properly. Kitchen tables are a great place for families to discuss their days and for children to learn how to sit properly at the table.

A bitchen kitchen isn’t one that simply looks great- it’s one that works efficiently too. The thing is, kitchen appliances can work efficiently without being energy efficient. And when this happens, your appliances are needlessly destroying natural resources and polluting the earth. Although I would hardly classify myself as a tree-hugging hippie, I am proud to care about the environment and happy to help others protect our Earth easily (without giving up most of their creature comforts). One such way to do this is to purchase Energy Star appliances for your home. Unfortunately, there is no such thing as Energy Star stoves or ovens at the moment, but by following these simple guidelines, you can ensure that your kitchen will be as energy efficient as possible.

1. Whenever possible, use a toaster oven or microwave to heat up your food. These ovens are significantly smaller than conventional ovens and use considerably less electricity. Microwaves alone use only 1/3-1/2 of the energy of standard ovens.

2. Use the burner size that is closest to the size of your pot. Although many cooks are tempted to use the biggest flame in the hopes of cooking their food the fastest, this practice causes much energy to be wasted.

3. Cover pots and pans on the stovetop to help cook (or boil) your food faster.

4. Consider gas stoves and ovens instead of electric, as they use a tad less energy. There may not be any Energy Star stoves and ovens, but we can do our best to create our own!

5. Those who are truly dedicated to the cause can use solar ovens to cook their food. Heated by the sun, these ovens can reach temperatures of up to 360-400 degrees. Worried about a lack of sun? Consider a hybrid model that combines the heat of the sun with an energy –efficient electric backup.

6. Use an oven with a glass door so that you can monitor the progress of your food without opening the door (which causes heat/energy to escape needlessly). In fact, 20% of the oven’s heat is lost every time the oven door is opened.

7. Turn off the oven a few minutes before the food is ready and let it cook the final few minutes in the residual heat of the oven. Cutting down on even a few minutes of oven usage can do a lot to conserve energy.

8. Purchase a gas stove with an electric ignition rather than a pilot light. You can waste a lot of energy keeping a pilot light running when the oven is not in use.

When I built my kitchen last year, I wanted a really natural look, something dynamic whose pattern varied throughout.  I wanted countertops that would be easy to clean, would hide dirt easily and would not crack, scratch easily, chip or break.  I chose granite countertops for exactly these reasons. 

Granite countertops are earthy, natural, and beautiful.  They can be edged with a bullnose,  ogee (one of my personal favorites), square edging or chamfee, as well as various other edging designs.  Granite countertops can be found in a variety of colors including red, tan, black, and green.  There are infinite different contrasting and complementing colors that can be seen running through the natural stone.  There are granite patterns with small patches of color running through and many with obvious swirls offsetting the background, allowing each homeowner to find something that will truly reflect their style preferences and match their decor.  They look beautiful with wood cabinets, laminate cabinets, glass cabinets…you name it.  Granite countertops can match black appliances, white appliances, stainless steel appliances…they are versatile, functional and classic in a way that many man-made countertops are not.

Granite is a natural material that is more durable than marble, another popular countertop stone.  When properly sealed, granite is impervious to water, heat-resistant and resistant to chipping.  Mose granite countertops that are used in the kitchen are shiny, which makes the kitchen look new (and clean!) long after the construction or remodel is finished.  Additionally, because granite countertops vary naturally in their design, crumbs and dirty patches don’t show easily.  Because they are durable enough to last a lifetime, installing granite countertops is a great way to add value to the cost of your house.

Sure, there are many other countertop materials that can make your kitchen look fabulous.  I will address them in future blogs (so stay tuned!).  But I can tell you from personal experience that granite countertops are comfortable to use, easy to upkeep and enjoyable to look at.  What could be better?