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Opposites Attract

With warm tones, exceptional details, and an emphasis on natural materials, this modern kitchen challenges the misconception that contemporary design is stark or cold. A modern aesthetic is about texture, lines, asymmetry, and the marriage of opposites, and Normandy Designer Liz Reifschneider designed this kitchen to showcase it perfectly. The play of light and dark, smooth and rough is accentuated throughout.

“The mix of black with blonde oak is on-trend right now, but has staying power,” said Liz. “And the wood panels in the tray ceiling are the same material as the wood cabinets and create that asymmetrical rhythm that is the overall concept of the entire space.”

A trio of cabinets houses your steam oven, coffee system, and microwave into one linear convenient appliance station. Pattern and movement in the countertop and backsplash are enhanced with a leathered finish that turns a typical kitchen into a modern masterpiece. Cowhide stools were added for an unexpected treat and give the space personality and another added texture.

The pendant lighting is a modern twist on a vintage perfume bottle with hand-blown glass hung at varying heights for an interesting visual effect. The metal hood is a custom creation by a local artisan combining a contrast of polished and brushed stainless steel.

This stunning kitchen is just one of many you’ll find at the new Normandy Remodeling North Shore Design Studio. Stop by to take a look around and get inspired for your own remodeling project. For directions to the nearest Design Studio to you, visit normandyremodeling.com/showrooms.  You can also find inspiration for your addition, kitchen or major renovation at normandyremodeling.com or on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram or Houzz.

 

          

The Laundry Room is Moving Up in the World

Second floor laundry roomAre you tired of lugging your laundry to the first floor or even the basement? When all of the bedrooms are on the second floor it can be a real pain to cart dirty clothing, towels, and bed linens downstairs to be washed and dried, only to have to tote it all back upstairs to be put away. That’s a lot of trips trudging up and down the stairs with heavy baskets of laundry and it might be time to bring it to your main living area.

“Upstairs laundry rooms require special planning and space,” said Normandy Designer Vince Weber.  “You need to consider how you do your laundry and if you have or are willing to make the space for it on the second floor.”

Laundry Room on the second floor of the houseWhen doing an addition or remodeling your existing space, it can be tough to decide whether to move the laundry room to the second floor or stick to the traditional location in the basement or the first floor.

“When planning a two-story addition, there is an opportunity to allocate for the space needed for a second-floor laundry room in your layout,” said Vince. “If you’re just remodeling, you may have to decide what square footage you are willing to give up and if it makes sense for you.”

If there is room, many laundry rooms are used as a multi-purpose space on the second floor with first-class features such as custom cabinetry for linen storage or cleaning supplies. If space is an issue, a small closet can be transformed into a laundry hub with stackable machines.

2nd floor laundry roomPutting in a second-floor laundry room requires some special considerations, but as our lives become more hectic and we have less time to do our chores, it could be beneficial. Plus, many homeowners enjoy the added living space downstairs that a second-floor laundry room provides. It will allow extra footage to be allocated to a kitchen or half bath, wherever you need it most.

If you’re thinking about relocating your laundry room or it’s time for your home to undergo a remodel, set up a time with Vince to go through your list of possible projects. You can also learn more about additions, kitchens, or other remodeling projects at an upcoming workshop. Check out the photo gallery, visit a Design Studio, or follow Normandy Remodeling on Facebook and Instagram for even more home tips and inspiration.

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