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aberdeennews.com aberdeennews.com American News • 2014 Fall Home Improvement Sunday, September 7, 2014 1

Unusual color combinations trendingGRETCHEN MAYERAberdeen American News

Interior decorating. The words can send ripples of fear through

so many of us. How well we remember such disasters as avocado-col-ored washers and dryers, orange shag rugs, toilet paper in lovely pastel shades and the home bar backed with gold-flecked mirror tiles and deco-rated with a sad clown holding a bottle opener. It seemed like a great idea at first but we soon tired of the cheesiness of it all. Then we launched

headlong into the country look with the dusky rose and faded denim blue – knickknacks and tchotch-kes everywhere. Five years later you couldn’t even offload the stuff at a rummage sale. So it is any wonder we

look with trepidation at our outdated living room and sweat buckets trying to decide how to decorate in a way that won’t make us shudder after only a few years? And in South Dakota,

the long, gloomy winters can pose an even bigger problem. With dusk showing up by 5 p.m. and dark corners greeting us when we come home from work, melancholy is sure to follow. So how

can we brighten our homes with this kind of challenge? “You wouldn’t think

that the combination of gray and pale yellow would work in this part of the country, but it does,” says Kathleen Stuck, own-er of Kathleen’s Home Décor located at 401 S. Main Street in Aberdeen. For those of us want-

ing to get rid of the burgundy/forest green combination that was ever-so-popular 10 years ago, Kathleen has some insight into what’s trend-ing now and what we will see in the near future. “I attend at least three

markets a year, some-times more,” she said. “What I’m seeing is blue in every shade from cobalt to aqua, matched with orange or red and purple. Orange is very much an accent color. There are a lot of inter-esting new color combi-nations right now.” Can’t it be pretty risky

trying to pick out just the right shade of orange to go with just the right shade of purple? “That’s where your decorator comes in,” said Stuck who is in her 26th year of business. “They are trained and have an eye for color.” Kathleen’s employs

two full-time and three

part-time decorators who can come to the home for a consultation usually within the week. She pointed out a large,

brown leather couch surprisingly accessorized with what she calls “Granny Smith Apple Green.” And while it wouldn’t be a combina-tion most people would consider, the results were stunning. “These days, green is considered a neutral color,” she said.

“It used to be that a color trend would last 10 years, maxing out at five. Right now contemporary is popular but I predict that five years down the line, traditional will creep back in – the woods. I call this transitional because I like to see people mix the two up.” When it comes to dec-

orating, Kathleen states that people tend to spend most of their money on the living room, the kitch-

en and the bathroom. Because they see the

bathroom as a place of re-treat, folks are looking for opulence, installing such things as solid surfaces (granite and quartz,) heated floors, and high-end fixtures. “The Industrial look

hit us with a bang about three years ago and should stay around a long time.” Stuck stated that, in the

kitchen, stainless steel,

chrome and silver are still really strong. Bronze appliances are slowly be-coming available but are currently quite expensive. Quartz countertops are slowly replacing granite. What about antiques? Is

there a place for those in home décor?Kathleen says that “…

younger people are not very interested in an-tiques – they are not that popular with the GenX-ers. However, people do like to include vintage, one-of-a-kind items that have a lot of personality. Signs are hot right now.” Home consultations can

be tricky at times – “You have to figure out who is the decider in the family and work with them first. I’ve found that people need to see something new seven times before accepting it. Homeown-ers need to feel comfort-able with their decisions, but should not be afraid to try new ideas.” Kathleen’s will hold a

Fall Open House Sept. 11 – 13. Her website is kathleenshomedecor.com. New merchandise is posted daily on their Facebook page kathleens-accessoriesforthehome.Store hours are 9:30

a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

home décor

SPECIAL SECTIONABERDEEN AMERICAN NEWSSEPTEMBER 7, 2014

SMART APPLIANCES: Fridges that can do what? Find out on page 4.

SERVICE DIRECTORY: Looking to make improvements of your own? Find help on page 5.

LOCAL FEATURE: Floor to Ceiling in Aberdeen has an abundance of decorating advice. See page 7.

AND MORE!• color • cabinets •kitchen remods• pet-friendly ideas • outside in

Kathleen Stuck, owner of Kathleen’s, suggests that people explore unusual color combinations when updating their decorating scheme. Credit: Gretchen Mayer.

aberdeennews.comAmerican News • 2014 Fall Home ImprovementSunday, September 7, 20142

NEWSPAPER TOOLBOX

It may surprise you to hear it, but wallpaper still plays a major role

in interior decoration. The latest decorating trends are all about using innovative materials, and so in addition to vinyl and acrylic finishes, homeowners can cover walls with textured paper containing synthetic fibers, metallic foils, and woven straw. The dazzle of metallic finishes, the sophistication of vel-vet, and the charm and texture of natural grass-es and bamboo are just some of the great ways to beautify your walls.And there’s more. A

three-dimensional effect can be created with embossed patterns to rec-reate the dramatic look of old tapestries. Using modern techniques such as silkscreen printing and woodblock print-ing, today’s wallpaper reproduces the texture of brick, wood paneling, stone, leather, or cork with impressive realism. Fun geometric designs,

Doors and windows for style and comfortNEWSPAPER TOOLBOX

Changing doors and windows is one of a home owner’s

biggest maintenance investments, apart from replacing a roof. Style, comfort, and price are the three determining factors when it comes to choosing new doors and windows.

StyleFirst, let the overall style

of your home guide you. If the house has a rustic look, you may want to opt for windows with small panes. If your house has stone siding and natural materials prevail, you’ll probably prefer wood. If you have a modern home, you’ll probably want to fo-cus on metallic or colored finishes.


NEWSPAPER TOOLBOX

It may surprise you to hear it, but wallpaper still plays a major role

in interior decoration. The latest decorating trends are all about using innovative materials, and so in addition to vinyl and acrylic finishes, homeowners can cover walls with textured paper containing synthetic fibers, metallic foils, and woven straw. The dazzle of metallic finishes, the sophistication of vel-vet, and the charm and texture of natural grass-es and bamboo are just some of the great ways to beautify your walls.And there’s more. A

three-dimensional effect can be created with embossed patterns to rec-reate the dramatic look of old tapestries. Using modern techniques such as silkscreen printing and woodblock print-ing, today’s wallpaper reproduces the texture of brick, wood paneling, stone, leather, or cork with impressive realism. Fun geometric designs,

both original and time-less, are also in style. Floral prints are making a comeback, primarily with oversized, graph-ic flowers. Trends are stretching the limits—on the one hand, we’re see-ing wallpaper with huge graphic patterns in black and white, while on the other, we have Japa-nese-in-spired washes of color on a back-ground of delicate prints. Still popular are tone-on-tone, stripes, and botanical print wallpa-pers. New trends include custom-made inkjet wallpapers displaying personal photographs. Even though wall to

wall covering remains a popular choice, the real trend these days is to use wallpaper on just one wall or on small sections that can be framed with moldings to make a picture.

NEWSPAPER TOOLBOX

The coordination of patterns and textures is just

as important as the color scheme in interior design. In the same way that a harmonious blend of colors embellishes a room, printed fabrics

and wallpaper energize a room painted in a solid color. Sometimes, prints are even used as the basic element of a room’s decor. Patterns can alter the

relationship between colors, and thus it is extremely important to match them carefully. Some printed fabrics blend well together, while others are poorly matched. When mixing prints, it

is important to distribute them carefully, taking into account their colors and designs to ensure good balance. Patterns with similar dimensions are easier to combine. But it is also important, when combining patterns, to ensure that their colors stand out. When it is

properly done, several patterns grouped togeth-er can accentuate the depth and atmosphere of the room.It is always preferable to

choose print fabrics that go well with the shapes, colors, and patterns of the existing furniture and accessories. Fortunately, it is possible these days to find fabrics, wallpapers, wall coverings, and ce-ramic tiles that are made to be mixed and matched.

NEWSPAPER TOOLBOX

Colors have a huge influence on the mood of a room—

they can either awaken or soothe the senses. Once you identify the effect you’re after, you’ll be able to choose the perfect colors for every room in

your home.Need

some peace and qui-et? Blue invites you to relax and sleep.

Green is comforting; it promotes harmony and is an excellent antidote to fatigue. A marriage of blue and green creates a relaxing atmosphere, perfect for a bedroom or reading room.Want to create some

punch? Energizing and daring, orange brightens the mood, stimulates creativity, and whets the appetite—great in the kitchen if you’re foodie, but not if you’re

on a diet! Playing with white and cream as a background for orange encourages movement and action. It’s also a great choice for an exer-cise room or a basement rec room.Need to concentrate?

Yellow stimulates the intellect and inspires a good mood. It also sharp-ens the memory. In small doses, soft yellows and blues have a balancing effect and encourage con-centration. These colors are ideal for work areas.Illusion or reality? Col-

ors can outsmart the eye and change our percep-tions. To enlarge a space, opt for a single color on the walls, moldings, and ceiling. White or pale colors that reflect light and brighten the room are preferable. To create the opposite

illusion, go for dark colors, which make the walls appear slightly clos-er together and the room appear smaller.Now all you have to do

is to choose the colors that best suit your needs and personality. Colors can talk. Listen to them!

About that color: there’s moreWallpaper makes a comeback Play with patterns Colors that talk

home décor

Doors and windows for style and comfortNEWSPAPER TOOLBOX

Changing doors and windows is one of a home owner’s

biggest maintenance investments, apart from replacing a roof. Style, comfort, and price are the three determining factors when it comes to choosing new doors and windows.

StyleFirst, let the overall style

of your home guide you. If the house has a rustic look, you may want to opt for windows with small panes. If your house has stone siding and natural materials prevail, you’ll probably prefer wood. If you have a modern home, you’ll probably want to fo-cus on metallic or colored finishes.

The model of window has an impact on the look:• sliding window: two

superimposed frames that slide from left to right or both ways• hung window: two

superimposed frames that slide upwards• casement window:

opens with a crank• awning window: the

frame pivots up and down

ComfortThe insulation a win-

dow provides is a major factor where the overall comfort of your home is concerned. Consumers can choose double or triple glazing. With triple glazing, the third glass panel reduces heat loss even more and reduces

condensation and noise.The air between the

layers of glass is a good insulator, but sometimes gas (krypton or argon) is inserted between the panes to provide better insulation. However, this effect diminishes over time, as the gas eventually escapes. A low emission (low-E) coating can be added to the window. This coating comes in the form of a low-emissivity film, which lets the sun’s rays in but prevents heat from escaping.You should also check

the spacers that separate the two or three panes of glass. The spacers surround the windows and make them water-proof. It is important to ensure that they have low conductivity, or, in

other words, that they are non-metallic. These inserts help to reduce con-densation at the bottom of the windows and prevent the glass from becom-ing excessively cold. Weather-stripping seals both doors and windows against rain and dust and minimizes air leaks in moving joints.

PriceEnergy Star products

are certified as the most energy efficient. They may be a bit more expensive, but you’ll save at least 10 percent on your heating costs.Doors and windows must

be installed level, plumb, and square. This work should be done carefully, ideally by a qualified car-penter. Also, many com-

panies, whether manu-factur-ers or retailers, install the doors and win-dows they sell. They tend to ensure the job is done well, as their repu-tation depends on it. Poorly installed doors

and windows can cause heat loss, be difficult to

open, cause water infiltra-tion, and other additional expenses. Dealing with professionals is always well worth the extra cost.

Credit: Newspaper Toolbox.

letting the outside in


BRANDPOINT

There’s no better time than now to give your

home the attention it deserves. Give it an annual checkup before cold weather arrives to help add comfort, save energy and cut home maintenance in the long-run.When inspecting your

home’s windows and doors, here’s what to check:

Inspect interior and exterior finish-es: Over time, paint and stain can weath-er away. Flaking or peeling may mean that it’s time to refinish or replace the unit. When replacing windows or doors, consider factory prefinished wood or fiberglass options from Pella, or vinyl options that don’t need paint-ing or staining, to save time and money.

Look for damaged exterior surfaces or signs of leaks: Check your sprinkler sys-tem to make sure it’s watering your lawn and landscape, not soaking

your windows or doors. Cracked or deteriorat-ed wood may be a sign of water penetration. Leaks can linger and affect interior walls, floors or ceilings, so look closely for discol-oration or other mois-ture signs.If you spot a prob-

lem, track its trail. For example, discolored trim around a win-dow might actually be caused by moisture entering a ways away. With a leaky roof, water may run down inside the wall and appear at the window. Contact a profession-al for help in making home repairs.

Clear windowsills and tracks of dirt and debris: Sand, leaves, insects or pine needles stuck in weather-strip-ping can affect the performance of your windows and doors. Open the windows and clean the opening with a soft brush, like a dry paint brush or vacuum attachment. Do the same for sliding patio doors.

Try opening and closing: Open your windows and doors to make sure moving parts work, and units close properly. Replace worn or broken parts.

Inspect weath-er-stripping: Re-attach loose weather-strip-ping around windows or doors, and replace material that’s ripped or torn.

Replace or repair broken locks: If locks feel loose or don’t work smoothly, replace them. Keep windows and doors locked when not in use. Locks help hold doors and win-dows tightly, to lock out rain, wind, snow and insects.

Inspect weep and breather holes: Weep holes in the exterior of windows, allow excess moisture to escape, while breather holes al-low air exchange with-in certain components. Clear blocked holes of dirt or debris with a

wire or toothpick.Check exterior seal-

ants and caulk on and around windows and doors. Pay attention to areas susceptible to rain, water and ex-treme sunlight. Re-move damaged materi-al and reapply sealant.

Feel for signs of air leakage around the window or door: Improperly installed windows or doors can be drafty, decrease energy efficiency, and allow unwanted mois-ture into your home. To help save on utility bills and keep your home more comfort-able year-round, re-place drafty old, leaky windows with new, EN-ERGY STAR-qualified Pella windows installed properly.

Visit Pella Windows and Doors on Pinterest for design inspiration or Pella.com/news for tips on caring for your windows and doors, or choosing new replace-ments.

BRANDPOINT

At last, you’re ready to face the facts—your

basement is in dire need of a good facelift. The first thing to ask yourself is what you want to use it for. Everything is possible, whether you want to invest in a home theater, a second bath-room with a shower, a playroom for the kids, a laundry room, or a gym to help you keep fit.Before starting any

sort of work, it would be wise to examine the area to ensure there are no cracks or mold that require your attention. Then draw up a plan of what you want to do, taking care to indicate where the walls, electrical wires, cables, and plumbing will be located. After that make a list of all the tools and materials you need.

The first job is to insulate your walls to protect them from the cold. This can be done from the inside if your foundations are watertight. Then, soundproof the area with an acoustic insu-lation such as cellulose fiber and put up the drywall. For the floors, it’s always a good idea to install a subfloor to keep rooms warm and the humidity low. Be sure to install a

sufficient number of electrical outlets, ceil-ing lights, telephone lines, and cable outlets to meet your present and future needs. For plumbing, electricity, or insulation work, call on the services of a pro-fessional to ensure that the work meets current building codes. Once the walls and

flooring are in place, all that remains to be done is to decorate the area with a coat of paint, baseboards, moldings, mirrors, and pictures.

6 tasks smart appliances can do for you

DAWN KLINGENSMITHCTW Features

Refrigerators and other kitchen appliances may

be quieter than ever, but they are communicating more than ever.Using mobile technolo-

gy, new smart appliances can reduce energy usage and household waste, save time, simplify tasks and lobby the family to pitch in and do their chores. Though not quite superpowers, their emerging capabilities may surprise those who are due to replace old appliances. Here are six feats smart appliances can achieve in collaboration with homeowners.

1. Cook a 4-course meal all at onceTiming is a challenge

for any home chef trying to serve main and side dishes at optimal tem-peratures, not to mention a series of courses includ-ing appetizers and des-sert. The new myMenu line of Franke ovens

allows home chefs to plan a full menu on smartphones, pop up to four dishes at a time in the oven and allow the appliance to automatically program cook times. The myMenu app tells the cook to place each dish on a specific level and then the oven does the rest, “Pinging the cook’s smartphone when each dish is ready to come out,” says Susan Serra, a certified kitchen designer based in Long Island, New York.

2. Prepare for companyA blind date is going

well and may lead to cof-fee afterward. But is there creamer in the fridge? With appliance maker LG’s HomeChat technol-ogy, our would-be Romeo can check the contents of his refrigerator with simple, conversational texting. Romeo can even ask his fridge which items

are approaching or past their expiration dates and request recipes based on ingredients he already has. In a bid to impress his

date, he can upload pic-tures of his Italy trip from his smartphone to his LG fridge’s LCD panel. He can also command his LG HOM-BOT vacuum cleaner to do the floors before they arrive.

3. Cut grocery and ener-gy billsSeveral smart refrig-

erators on the market can send a list of their contents to homeowners who are out shopping. “That way, you don’t end up buying food that you already have,” says Shirley Hood, a sales represen-

tative at Abt Electronics and Appliances in Glen-view, Illinois. Certain models also send alerts when foods are about to spoil (although home-owners must manually enter the expiration dates to activate this function), or when the refrigerator door has been left open. To save on energy, a

number of new appli-ances connect to utility company “smart grids” (where available) to activate appliances when demand is low. The Smart Start feature on Miele washers, dryers and dish-washers allow users to specify a time they want a load to finish, and then the appliance works out a start time based on the lowest energy pricing.

4. Help the kids earn an allowanceUsing Whirlpool’s Smart

Appliances with its “6th Sense Live technology” allows users to monitor appliances from afar, manage their energy usage and control key features remotely. Used in conjunction with Whirl-pool’s free WashSquad app, moms and dads can control laundry cycles and, to some extent, their kids. The WashSquad app lets families assign laundry jobs and then track and reward com-pleted duties on the app’s Wash Board. WashSquad gives tutorials on how to address specific laundry challenges, such as grass stains on poly-cotton. Compatible with Whirl-pool’s Smart Duet Pair washer and dryer, the Smart Appliance app takes task management a step further, allowing Mom to check laundry status and remind kids to transfer clean clothes to the dryer.

5. Stick to a dietThe LG refrigerator’s

Health Manager feature recommends individual recipes, in addition to daily and weekly meal plans, based on user pro-files for each family mem-ber. Personal stats such as

age, gender, weight and height are used to deter-mine Body Mass Index, which is used as the basis of the individualized meal plans. Once a recipe is selected, the fridge can send the relevant infor-mation to an LG oven, which automatically preheats.

6. Inadvertently advance evil plotsFolks planning to up-

grade to smart appliances should “Maybe avoid see-ing ‘Maximum Overdrive’ in the meantime,” writes Engadget blogger Steve Dent, referring to the Stephen King horror film where machine comes to life and attack humans. Seriously, though, the possible threat of owner-ship isn’t that machines will come alive and plot to take over the world. However, connecting

appliances to the In-ternet does make them vulnerable to the dark side of connectivity, and there’s at least one case of a refrigerator being used to send out mali-cious emails. So be at least as smart as today’s appliances. Read reviews, ask questions and do a risk-benefit analysis before buying.

© CTW Features

Smart appliances can be controlled remotely with a computer or phone app are transforming the kitchen – and us.

ABOVE: LG’s ‘HomeChat’ makes it possible to communicate with appliances via text message. Credit: LG.

appliances

Tips on how to give your home an annual checkup

fall-prep It’s time to finish the basement

downstairs


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6 tasks smart appliances can do for youage, gender, weight and height are used to deter-mine Body Mass Index, which is used as the basis of the individualized meal plans. Once a recipe is selected, the fridge can send the relevant infor-mation to an LG oven, which automatically preheats.

6. Inadvertently advance evil plotsFolks planning to up-

grade to smart appliances should “Maybe avoid see-ing ‘Maximum Overdrive’ in the meantime,” writes Engadget blogger Steve Dent, referring to the Stephen King horror film where machine comes to life and attack humans. Seriously, though, the possible threat of owner-ship isn’t that machines will come alive and plot to take over the world. However, connecting

appliances to the In-ternet does make them vulnerable to the dark side of connectivity, and there’s at least one case of a refrigerator being used to send out mali-cious emails. So be at least as smart as today’s appliances. Read reviews, ask questions and do a risk-benefit analysis before buying.

© CTW Features

downstairs


MARLA MILLERCTW Features

Homeowners expect a lot of cabinets – not

just in the kitchen but all throughout the home.Cabinet makers are

responding to the con-sumer demand for design flexibility and decorative utility with unique door styles and new finishes, expanded cabinet siz-es and pullouts, open shelves, and collections of embellishments.This attention to details

comes from a relative increase in spending money, says Jeff Kida, owner of DDS Design Services in Villa Park, Illinois. “When the reces-sion hit in 2008, everyone was looking worried about resale and looking for plain white cabinets,” he says. “Now they’re looking to personalize it a little more looking for something a little more long-term.”Modern cabinets boast

of aesthetics, easy access and innovative space and storage solutions.“Cabinetry is becoming

increasingly thoughtful in its design, delivering accessibility and func-tionality to homeowners more than ever before,” says Andy Wells, vice

president of product design and trends at MasterBrand Cabinets in Jasper, Ind.How today’s consumers

live, work and play with-in the home continues to transform cabinetry, from ease of installation and operation to mak-ing the most of space with customization and enhancing clean, modern looks.“Everything got a lot

more clean-lined, not as heavily detailed,” says Patricia Dunlop, owner of Fine Kitchens and Baths in Boise, Idaho. “I think we want our homes to be simple and not as busy, because life is complicat-ed enough.”Many designers espouse

a “whole-house” concept, using cabinets to unify design throughout a home, be an entryway, craft center, baking area, home office, bathroom, laundry room, living room or entertainment center, says Wells. Think of an entryway

unit with a bench for putting on shoes, com-partments for stowing shoes and bags, and hooks to hang coats. Or a utility or laundry room with wall and overhead cabinets for storage.

Storage Solutions by DesignNew cabinetry can

feature thicker shelves to prevent sagging, adjustable hinges and additional cabinet sizes. They offer design flexi-bility with backlit inserts and interchangeable door panels to transform looks without costly upcharges.More accessories and

options mean more possi-bilities to solve timeless kitchen dilemmas. To-day’s cabinetry optimizes counter space – hiding small appliances while displaying kitchen trea-sures – and eliminates having to reach deep into dark cabinets. “There are more win-

dows in the kitchen now, so there are fewer wall cabinets where we used to store glassware,” Dun-lop says. “So we have to store more and more in cabinets.”Pullout mechanics for

pots and pans, bins for trash and recycling, and built-in microwave cabinets help maximize storage possibilities, while keeping design streamlined through a space, Wells says.“Traditional methods of

bending over and reach-ing up to access items are not natural for people,” Wells says. “The way

homeowners are using their kitchen environ-ments plays a big role in new design introductions. The concept of universal living is still prevalent today, helping deliver solutions into which homeowners can grow.”Now, space-efficient

cabinets with multiple drawers are taking the space of the model with a top drawer and free space underneath. Kida says this is yet another sign of growing confidence in the economy. “People can spend a little more money on that,” he says.

Cabinetry Gets Custom-izedDesigners continue to

find ways to minimize the intrusion of cabinet doors into a homeown-er’s space, Wells says. Wall open, mullion, and prepped-for-glass cabinets let homeowners custom-ize looks. Gray is still a popular

color for kitchen cabine-try, but designers are see-ing the hues warm up in temperature, Wells says. Oak cabinetry and tech-niques such as cerused finishes, which highlights the wood’s natural grain, are seeing a resurgence because of homeowners’ desire for more natural, authentic design in the kitchen. Trends that have been popular in Europe for years, such as high-gloss and heavy texturing on cabinetry surfaces, also have captured the imagination of U.S. home-owners, Wells adds.Yet nothing stays quite

like white. “Some people are very brave and know what they want and use bright colors, but white will always be there with lighter woods for cleaner, simpler cabinetry,” says Dunlop.

Functional, Yet DecorativeIn the bathroom, dark

wood finishes are the No. 1 choice for bath cabinetry followed by

medium wood and white paint finishes. Popular design trends include open, airy designs, base cabinets with open areas, floating wall shelves, and decorative mirrors and moldings.Other bathrooms have

added extra drawers under the sink. These can be rollout contraptions or U-shaped, flat drawers for toothbrushes or curling irons, says Dunlop. Larg-er vanities might even be able to fit extra cabinetry on top. “You’re trying to keep the counter space clear,” she says.Homeowners are incor-

porating wall storage and open shelves into laundry rooms, too, for basket, hampers and base storage, sorting, storing and folding areas, and utilizing space under and over the washer and dry-er. This space can store crafts, decorations, clean-ing supplies and more.Other innovations

include shelves that pull down to eye level for easy access, incorporating more drawers into cabine-try design, and providing places for tablets and

other electronic gadgets. “Homeowners are also

embracing technology more in the kitchen, using their tablets and smartphones as cook-books,” Wells says. The company’s Diamond Tablet Holder, a arm that swings out from under-neath a cabinet to hold up a tablet for reading recipes, helps free up countertop space and pro-tect the electronic device from splatters.Consumers want

cabinets that serve dual functions for decoration and organization. Backlit insert panels and open shelves have become especially appealing to homeowners looking for fresh, exciting ways to store and display.“Open shelving offers

the great ability to express personality and show off ornamentation of valuable items,” Wells says. “When plates and cups are displayed, this can also increase the amount of light and color in the room, adding to the overall mood of space.”

No longer contained to the kitchen, today’s cabinets offer utility – and a unified look – for every room of the house. It’s just what homeowners want.

© CTW Features

Cabinets: Style and function for the ‘whole house’storage

ABOVE: Full-access cab-inetry makes it easier to access large items like pots and pans. Credit: Omega.

LEFT: A dark wood finish, chic mirror and pullout shelves help expand the space of a bathroom. Credit: Decora.

One less reason to cry over spilled milk, Diamond’s under-cabinet tablet holder keeps tech devices away from messy ingredients – and keeps them charged. Credit: Diamond.

The kitchen sink survival guideNEWSPAPER TOOLBOX

The world of faucets has evolved so much in recent

years that it’s easy to feel lost without a few guide-lines. Indeed, manufactur-ers now offer products in a huge range of shapes, finishes, and styles.While some models have

truly eye-catching de-signs, faucets are primari-ly utilitarian. In the kitch-en, high faucets facilitate rinsing pots and cleaning food. The simpler their shape, the easier they are to clean. However, you should always ensure that they fit into your decor.

Go with the flowThe choice of finishes is

vast. Chrome, brass, gilt, and copper are the most popular in shiny, matt, or brushed versions; just keep in mind that finger prints aren’t as visible on a matte finish.For faucets that are in

constant use, preference should be given to prod-ucts with a heavy-duty internal mechanism made of solid metal, rather than plastic covered with met-al plating. How to tell the difference? It’s elemen-tary, my dear Watson—weigh them. Good quality faucets are significantly heavier.

Another sought-after sink element is no-drip taps and spouts. Tradi-tional valve faucets are being gradually replaced by models with cartridges or ceramic discs. This technology is very effi-cient, especially if your water is hard. On the other hand, they

are not recommended if your water supply comes from an artesian well, as just one grain of sand could jam the mecha-nism.

RIGHT: The world offaucets has evolved

greatly in recent years.Credit: Newspaper Toolbox.

kitchen


Floor to Ceiling: Decorating can actually be fun GRETCHEN MAYERAberdeen American News

Bob Jensen, owner of Floor to Ceiling in Aberdeen, grabs

a tiny remote control, pushes a button and the gray silken drapes silent-ly open and close. “You can put this onto a home automation system and set them on a timer to open and close at specific times. That way you can control the UV rays and heat.” It could also deter

home invaders if the shades suddenly pop open. A lot of things have

changed when it comes to interior decorating in the past few decades. No longer are people lining their walls with oppressive wood pan-eling. Heavy brocade drapes are nowhere to be found except at your grandmother’s house. But for novices, the idea of redecorating their own

home can be overwhelm-ing. Jensen has this advice:

“When doing a large or small project, look at Pinterest, at magazines like Better Homes and Gardens and tear out lots of pictures. Soon you’ll find yourself gravitating to a specific style. Then decide what is the most important thing to you, and decorate around that item.” Bob and his wife, Deb,

are able to help with the design by entering the elements into a computer program so that you can get a visual of the end result before investing a lot of time and money. Trending right now are

light, airy, shades and drapes, which are partic-ularly beneficial in South Dakota where the winter days can be short and gloomy. Shutters, which have always been popular in the South, are showing up more in home offices and kitchens.

“In flooring, hard surface is the trend right now – hardwood, ceramic tile, and luxury vinyl. The benefits are that there is no wear pattern, and they are easier to decorate around.”

If carpeting is still in your future however, Bob said that people will be surprised to learn that the quality has changed immensely. “The lon-gevity of carpeting has improved a great deal,” he said. “The nylons are much better now. There

is a pet protect carpet – a nylon carpet designed so that pet accidents don’t stain and it repels pet hair making it easier to vacuum up.” And the kitchen?

“Painted cabinets are coming back. They used to be popular in the 70’s and 80’s but now the colors are softer and mixed – two different paint colors or different woods side by side. Oak is going out – what’s trending now

are the maples, cherry wood and rustic alder.” Pointing out a glass tile

splashguard reminiscent

of bamboo, Bob said, “These are easy to install and maintain. Under cabinet lighting is a must in kitchens to get a nice work surface.” Countertops are still

granite but quartz is rap-idly becoming a favorite choice due to its ease of maintaining. “It doesn’t

need to be sealed, there are no special cleaners, it’s non-porous, doesn’t stain and won’t scratch

or chip.” After 36 years in the

business, Bob has had a lot of experience and leaves us with this one final tip: “People in the Midwest tend to be con-servative and lean toward neutral colors – don’t fear the bright accent colors.”

other electronic gadgets. “Homeowners are also

embracing technology more in the kitchen, using their tablets and smartphones as cook-books,” Wells says. The company’s Diamond Tablet Holder, a arm that swings out from under-neath a cabinet to hold up a tablet for reading recipes, helps free up countertop space and pro-tect the electronic device from splatters.Consumers want

cabinets that serve dual functions for decoration and organization. Backlit insert panels and open shelves have become especially appealing to homeowners looking for fresh, exciting ways to store and display.“Open shelving offers

the great ability to express personality and show off ornamentation of valuable items,” Wells says. “When plates and cups are displayed, this can also increase the amount of light and color in the room, adding to the overall mood of space.”

Cabinets: Style and function for the ‘whole house’

The kitchen sink survival guide

Pet-friendly remodeling ideasKELLY LEE-CREELCTW Features

As pet ownership hits an all-time high, homeowners

are taking more steps to remodel with their pets’ needs in mind. Pet-friend-ly remodeling has gone far beyond the basic doggy door to include features like dog washing stations and custom kitty litter cabinets.In discussions with two-

legged clients, “We talk about multi-generational living a lot,” says David Schmitke of Neil Kelly, a Portland. Ore.-based re-modeling company. More often these days, pets are part of the equation. “Now we have multi-spe-cies living,” Schmitke says.“Designing with pets’

needs in mind creates happier pets who are less likely to dig and chew and have separation anxiety – saving your fur-niture, your carpet, your walls,” he says.Pet-friendly design

choices “benefit every-body in the household, resulting in a house that’s going to last longer,” says Nancy Chwiecko, author of “There’s a Dog in the

House: A Practical Guide to Creating Today’s Dog Friendly Home” (Design Dog Press, 2010). Flooring is an important

consideration for home-owners.Chwiecko likes hard

surface materials such as wood, ceramic or con-crete. “They are great because they are durable and easy to maintain.” Randi Reed, a designer at Neil Kelly, often uses an imported Linoleum-like product called Marmo-leum, which is biodegrad-able.Hardwood floors are du-

rable, Chwiecko says, but can show scratches and wear, especially if they are stained a dark color or have a glossy finish. To keep dogs from

slipping on hard floors Chwiecko recommends putting a washable rug on top of them and taking special care around stairs.One feature that is mak-

ing life easier for humans as well as their furry friends is the dog wash-ing station. In regions like the Pacific North-west, where “most of the year you’re coming back in the door with muddy paws,” Schmitke says it pays to set up a system

that’s ergonomically easy on the washer’s back. Reed has designed

several dog washing stations using stainless steel shower pans with stainless steel walls and a handheld shower. When not in use for pets, “you can also use it for muddy boots and potting,” she says. Reed’s designs have been so popular that one client went out and pur-chased a dog after seeing a photo of her work.“[The clients] didn’t

have a dog at the time, but they have since bought a dog and now have their own dog wash-ing station.”The ideal setup “de-

pends on the size of the human and the size of the dog. There is a formula,” Chwiecko says. Pet own-ers should do some home-work before deciding on the best arrangement for their space.When designing for pets,

Reed says you should “think through a dog’s head or a cat’s head.”Peter Cohen, co-owner

of a custom home build-ing company, Trillium Enterprises, in Santa Barbara, Calif., did just that, crafting an elaborate network of catwalks for

his 18 cats.Cohen began adding

catwalks a few at a time during lulls in his con-tracting business. “I built them for the cats and me,” he says. “I like to think about how it will look for the humans and how it will function for the cats.”His clients are now

requesting some of the features he has perfected in his own home, such as a kitty litter closet that’s accessible by cat door. Cohen takes his one step further, installing a bath fan that runs 24-7 and vents outside, eliminating odors.As Schmitke says, “It’s

important that our pets eat, sleep and live as comfortably as we would. It sounds a little strange at first, but if you make it easier for your pet to do their basic functions, you’re mak-ing it easier for yourself.”

© CTW Features

four-legged friends

ABOVE: A Dog Washing Station – with stainless steel shower pans and wall – can serve double duty. When not being used for pets it can wash off muddy boots. Credit: The Neil Kelly Co.

LEFT: Customized cat walks enable felines to maintain their health and avoid bore-dom. Credit: Peter Cohen.

“When doing a large or small project, look at Pinterest, at magazines like Better Homes and Gardens and tear out lots of pictures. Soon you’ll find yourself gravitating to a specific style. Then decide what is the most important thing to you, and decorate around that item.”

A hand-crafted pottery bowl makes a unique statement on this rustic alder bathroom vanity at the Floor To Ceiling store located in the Super City Mall. Credit: Gretchen Mayer.

home décor

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