Friday, October 3, 2014

How much paint will I need?


Painting your walls is a great way to update your space and make it all your own style. However, it can be scary and frustrating to figure out how much paint you will need. There is a general rule when estimating how many gallons you will need and I will show you how below. You will be a pro in no time!

1)      First Start by measuring the walls height and length.

·         Example: The picture shows below 18’ length x 9’ High


2)      You multiply W x H = to give you the square footage of the first wall.
·         In this case it is 18’ x 9’ = 162 sq.ft
 
3)      You will then do this for all the walls you want in the same color to give you the total square footage. If there are any windows or doors, just subtract them from the total.
·         In this example, we will keep all the walls the same size and color and not worry about the doors, ceiling and windows.
162 sq.ft x 4 = 648 sq.ft
 
4)      Most paints will show a spread rate that indicates about how many square feet the gallon will cover. On average they contain 350 sq.ft per gallon.
 
5)      You then divide your total sq.ft of the walls by the spread rate.
·         My total of 648sq.ft /350sq.ft = 1.8 gallons, but round up to the 2 gallons.
 
 
We did it! Not so bad was it.
Here are a few more important considerations to take when painting a room.
·         Are you covering an existing color? If so, is the color you’re covering light or dark? In most cases when you are covering an existing painted wall, you will need a primer and second coat.
·         Is the wall textured? If it is textured, you may also need to put on a second coat for an even result.
·         The quality of your tools make a significant difference on how the paint spreads and in giving you a more uniform result.
·         Always a good idea to purchase a little extra paint just in case and to have some for touch ups in the future.
Now get out there and paint your masterpiece!



Tuesday, July 1, 2014

2014 Kitchen Idea and visual


Here is a small two toned kitchen project I worked on and wanted to share with everyone. This is a popular kitchen and living space style that many clients have requested. It incorporates white with a high contrast cabinet and gray tones that are definitely a hot kitchen and bath trend for 2014.  
If there is a certain style you would like to see please let me know.

Enjoy!


Thursday, June 19, 2014

2014 Kitchen Trends

10 Kitchen Trends of 2014

1)  Combining old elements with the new to create a harmonious space that incorporates the best of both worlds 

2)  Mixing cabinet colors

3)  Quartz Countertops that look like marble or with movement to the pattern.

4)  Subway and glass tile

5)  Pop of bright colors

6)  Adding gray tones

7)  Materials with high contrast

8)  Simple hardware

9)  Traditional fixtures with modern colors

10)  Tile flooring that looks like wood



Ruth Zavala Design
 

Friday, May 23, 2014

Kitchen Mart Now Offers Kraftmaid Vantage




Kitchen Mart now offers Kraftmaid Vantage!

A new Dealer-exclusive offering from Kraftmaid, the most recognized consumer brand in the industry. Kraftmaid Vantage has the doors, finishes and products, that you already love, plus added features that deliver a distinct advantage.

ü  “Built-in Value” takes on a whole new meaning- all plywood construction is standard with Kraftmaid Vantage. Many other stores and manufacturers charge more for this construction upgrade.

ü  “The Right Fit” Get the ultimate in design flexibility with custom height and width modifications to 1/16”, exclusive to Kraftmaid Vantage Dealers.

ü  “Matching Interiors” Designing with inserts just got easier. A matching interior is automatically included with your insert doors at no extra charge! Many other stores and manufacturers add an additional charge for finished interiors.


The designers at Kitchen Mart are ready to guide you through every step of your journey. They are experienced in kitchen design and can provide expert skills and services to create the right kitchen for you!

Monday, April 28, 2014

Kitchen Mart is now on Houzz!


Kitchen Mart is now featured on Houzz!
Click on the link below to see some of Kitchen Mart’s great work.
 
Remodeling and Home Design
 

                                                     
                                                                    Sacramento Kitchen & Bath Designers
 
                                   

Friday, October 25, 2013

Quartz vs. Granite


Countertops in your kitchen or bath can make an amazing focal point and be the finishing touch to the design. With so many options out there, it can be challenging to know what countertop material is right for you and also be something you like. The biggest players in the countertop game are quartz and granite for their beauty and durability. Many clients are interested in both but would like to know the differences between them….so let’s talk stone!


Granite

Granite is sliced from large quarries and cut into slabs, making granite 100% natural. Mother Nature is very creative and makes no two slabs alike. Granite comes in a wide range of colors, patterns, veining and unique movement in the stone. In order to keep the granite's natural beauty, there is some maintenance involved. Granite is porous and may absorb stains, oils and germs if care is not taken.When granite is installed it needs to be sealed, then re-sealed yearly. Sometimes there may be natural imperfections in the stone that can cause weak or stress points in the slab, but its natural properties in color are also what we love about it.
Azul Fantasy full slab
                                                     Arizona tile-Granite-Azul Fantasy
Quartz:

Quartz is 93% crushed quartz stone mixed with 7% of resins and binders that hold it together. Because of the unique mix, the quartz slabs are non-porous making them maintenance free. Quartz does not need to be sealed and is the most resistant to heat, scratching, and staining. Quartz is a great option for someone who has kids, an active life style and for the hands on cooks out there. Keep in mind there are some manufacturers of quartz that offer a “honed” or matte finish that does require maintenance and special care. Quartz was known for their speckled, uniform look but has now moved into colors with some movement. The Cambria company however, has the secret recipe; they are able to mimic the granite and marble look their colors. They are personally one of my favorite for working outside of the box. I recommend you come to the showroom to see them in person, you will be amazed!
Zodiaq Color Toasted Almond, click to view detailed product information
            Zodiaq-Toasted Almond                                 Cambria-Bellingham
 

Now the question you all are waiting for … price difference?

The two materials are not apples to apples and have a price variance in just their own category. Generally they are similar in pricing. Granite pricing will depend on some variables: What size is the slab? Where was the granite quarried? Is it a common color? And where are you purchasing it from? Quartz will also depend on the slab size, color and manufacturer. The real question is who is installing? It is very important that the surfaces are installed by licensed, professional, experienced, certified fabricator/installer. If not installed properly the countertop may crack. Kitchen Mart employees are all of the above and more.  If either of these options are something you would be interested in, give us a call to schedule a consultation or stop by one of the showrooms and we would be happy to help you.  

I hope this information gives you a good idea of the main differences. Please comment if there are any questions you would like me to answer as the stone world is large.

Look for my posting on Corian soon to come!




 
 

Friday, February 1, 2013

Great Article by Julia Pockett


Wednesday, October 24, 2012

The Louis Ghost Chair

 
This chair is a mix of two of my favorite things, The Louis Ghost Chair & Barbie!and yes I still like Barbie. The famous Philippe Starck created The Ghost Chair that cleverly reinvented the classic Louis XVI arm chair. The Ghost chair comes in many colors but I will have to say the Barbie version is my favorite.


Tuesday, August 14, 2012




Showroom Hours
Monday-Friday 9am - 5pm
Saturday 10am-3pm

(Map and Directions on Contact page)





Friday, August 10, 2012

Introducing Fieldstone Cabinetry


Kitchen Mart is excited to offer Fieldstone Cabinetry. Fieldstone builds quality cabinets with endless color selections and possibilities. When paired with Cambria countertops, your kitchen or bath is transformed to an enchanting space unlike any other. Let me show you an example. 

 One of my favorite Fieldstone cabinets is an inset door with Amaretto Finish, and when I combined it with Cambria’s Aberdeen color I knew it was meant to be. By combining Asian elements with the cabinetry and countertop, I was able to create a kitchen or bath design concept that creates a tranquil space.




Friday, March 23, 2012

The Arts and Crafts Movement

      
           The traditional geometric style of Arts and Crafts has been a popular look that many Kitchen Mart clients would like to mimic or replicate for their kitchens. Here is a little history lesson and tips on how to achieve the true Art and Crafts style.

          The British Arts and Crafts movement was inspired by William Morris in rejection of low quality furniture being mass produced during the 19th century. He revived the importance of traditional handcrafted pieces, quality, and the art of fine craftsmanship. William Morris later had a team of talented designers and artists who together created the design firm called Morris, Marshall, Faulkner & Company. Due to the success of the company, larger workshops were made in London and became Morris & Company in 1875. The Morris & Company not only created quality furniture but stained glass and textiles as well. Take a look at some of Morris & Co. creations below..


The Morris Chair

Morris & Co. "Snakes Head Print" 1876

"David's Charge to Solomon" by Brune Jones & Morris & Co.
Trinity Church, Boston Massachusetts

Embroidered Screen

          
           The British Arts and Crafts movement was introduced to the United States through exhibitions held in New York, California & Chicago, but Gustov Stickely is credited for its success in the United States. Gustov Stickley was a well-known architect and designer from New York. Gustov was highly influenced by William Morris’s work and was one of the first to combine the Arts & Crafts with current American styles. Gustov also saw the importance of quality craftsmanship and made it one of his goals   to make "furniture that shows plainly what it is and in which the design and construction harmonize with the wood" You see this in the straight lines, larger proportions and minimal details of his furniture. His furniture was also hand crafted with mostly solid oak, beautiful inlays and leather upholstery. In 1902 Stickley launched his first magazine, “The Craftsman Magazine”. The magazine showed illustrations of his work, promoted his beliefs and styles as well as design principles. The Craftsman Magazine became a great influence in the design world and got a large audience that spread throughout the United States. Gustov’s furniture and style quickly became known as “Craftsman” taken from his inspiring magazine. Take a look at some of Gustov Stickley’s creations below..

One of Gustov Stickley's furniture designs

Gustov Stickley Armchair

Gustov Stickley inlay chair

Gustov Stickley Mark

The Craftsman 1904

The Craftsman Magazine  Illustration


Dallas Museum of Arts exhibit of Gustov Stickley


Some Tips on how to recreate or Mimic 
 Arts and Crafts or Craftsman style:
Click to view larger.

Here are some great examples 
Kitchen and Dining Area traditional kitchen
                                       traditional kitchen design by grand rapids architect Visbeen Associates, Inc.

Cascadia Residence 04 traditional living room
                                                 traditional living room design by seattle architect knowles ps

Craftsman Home traditional staircase
                                        traditional staircase design by cincinnati design-build Andrew Melaragno, AIBD

Craftsman Home traditional kitchen
                                        traditional kitchen design by cincinnati design-build Andrew Melaragno, AIBD

Thursday, January 19, 2012

Bathroom Trends for 2012!

Bathrooms are like never before, incorporating exciting new technology, comfort and style.  Some  new trends for 2012 include minimalist fixtures, clean lines, electronics, and environmentally friendly designs with comforting textiles. I am excited for the advancements in bathroom design. Just take a look at these examples....

Seura TV Mirror
"Séura’s exclusive mirror technology is surprisingly magical. When on, Enhanced TV mirrors provide immediate access to news and media. When off, the television completely disappears without a hint of its technical applications for a truly vanishing effect. You decide when a television is in the room with the simple push of a remote control button." www.seura.com

Seura TV Mirror

Smartfaucet from iHouse
The Smartfaucet can recognize its user and automatically adjusts to their preferred temperature! The touch screen has many features including e-mail,calendar, temperature and LED lights.

Aquamass tub
Aquamass is able to make tubs with unique patterns and amazing designs

Aquamass tub

Bagno Sasso Tub
Bagno Sasso also has creative designs for their bathtubs and other products

Bagno Sasso concrete washbasin
Amazing!

Bagno Sasso Wooden Bathtub Collection
Bagno Sasso has mastered their exclusive wooden free standing tubs and sinks.

 Bagno Sasso Wooden Bathtub Collection 


Bagno Sasso Wooden Bathtub Collection

Delta Touch2O Bathroom Faucets
The Delta Touch20 faucets allow you to tap the faucet on or off. The Touch 2O.xt alows you to use it hands free with its activating sensor.

Kohler Age Gracefully collection
Kohler Elevance rising wall bath allows you to enjoy a luxury bath with easy entry and exit.

Jacuzzi Towel Warming Drawer
The Jacuzzi towel warming drawer will keep your towels nice and warm for a spa experience. Who wouldn't like a nice warm towel after a relaxing shower or bath.






Monday, January 2, 2012

And the Winner is.. Europe

Thank you for voting,
       Europe was chosen as the continent most would like to visit. Europe has many wonderful countries to explore with lots of life and history. Color is used in cultures all around the world as a way to communicate and tell their story. Different colors have a special significance or meaning that play a major role in its history, arts, traditions and lifestyles. Greece for example uses colors that are influenced by their mountains, clear skies, sunsets, and eye catching coast lines. Did you know that the Parthenon was actually the contrary to how we think of it today? The Parthenon was very colorful with bold blues, reds, and gold but over time these colors faded. It’s surprising to find out that the Parthenon was colorful but why do you think that was? These colors are often seen in the Greek culture to show power or high significance, but the color blue is cherished. It is perceived as a color that wards off evil and of protection.  You will currently find their beloved color in their pure white homes with blue accents that surround the cost, their art and architecture, open Ocean, and flag.  Each country may use and perceive colors differently but that’s what makes each country unique and fun to explore.  Take a look
at these collages I made on different countries and let the colors introduce you to their story.

(click on the picture to view larger )

Greece

India

China


Venezuela

Wednesday, December 14, 2011

Modern Vs. Contemporary


What is the difference between Modern and Contemporary design?

Although Modern and Contemporary are used interchangeably, there is a difference between the two.
Contemporary design refers to our present time, and latest styles of the 21st century. The word Contemporary is used to describe basically the styles & designs of “today.” 
Modern design does not refer to “current” design but rather to a style taken from a time period or era. During the 1920’s the Bauhaus school in Germany pushed the traditional thoughts and styles of the Arts. The Bauhaus school taught a large range of the Arts that turned away the “expressionist” style or idea and looked towards a “rational” style that incorporated functionality, minimalism, straight lines and mass production. These ideas created the Modern style or Modernism.

Modern and Contemporary are often used interchangeably because the Modern style look and ideas are still very popular today. The straight lines, clean look, and functionality are seen in high-end homes, hotels, architecture, and furniture and many aspects of current design. Contemporary designs use these modern elements with new aspects to them. Can get confusing I know…. but hear area a few pictures to compare the two

MODERN EXAMPLES

master bath modern bathroom
                                                                         modern bathroom design by minneapolis
                                                                                   architect John B.A. Idstrom II

California Cool in the Castro-Bathroom modern bathroom


Deck House Family Room modern family room

Photo: Norma Molina Lopez. Great room contemporary living room
                                                                     modern living room design by san francisco
                                                                         architect Mark English Architects, AIA

Larkin Street Residence modern living room
                                                                    modern living room design by san francisco
                                                                        architect John Maniscalco Architecture

Mid-Century Remodel modern kitchen
                                                                        modern kitchen design by minneapolis
                                                                      interior designer Walsh Design Group, Inc.

Lake House Two - Bath modern bathroom
                                                   modern bathroom design by seattle architect McClellan Architects

CONTEMPORARY EXAMPLES

Pool House & Wine Cellar modern dining room
                                                                   contemporary dining room design by nashville
                                                                                interior designer Jamie Beckwith
Pool House & Wine Cellar modern living room
                                                                    contemporary living room design by nashville
                                                                               interior designer Jamie Beckwith
Prince Street Kitchen contemporary kitchen
                                                                 contemporary kitchen design by boston kitchen
                                                                            and bath Venegas and Company

Rough Hollow Parade Home 2010 contemporary kitchen
                                                      contemporary kitchen design by austin interior designer PPDS

Modern Manor contemporary living room
                                                  contemporary living room design by minneapolis interior designer
                                                                                      Martha O'Hara Interiors

Pool House & Wine Cellar modern kitchen
                                                                      contemporary kitchen design by nashville
                                                                               interior designer Jamie Beckwith

Queensway master contemporary bedroom
                                                                           contemporary bedroom design by toronto
                                                                               interior designer LUX Design Inc.

Luxury Bathroom contemporary bathroom
                                                 contemporary bathroom design by new york general contractor
                                                                Prestige Custom Building & Construction, Inc.

bathroom contemporary bathroom
                                                               contemporary bathroom design by photographer
                                                                                    Elad Gonen & Zeev Beech