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Pocket, Barn, French or Solid? How to Choose the Right Interior Door

Pocket door at the bottom of the stairsWhite kitchen with two tier island and barn door over pantryNot many people consider their interior door designs when working through a remodel. When you want to add a unique focal point to a room renovation, Normandy Designer Abby Osborn suggests choosing a non-typical door. “Barn doors have been trending the past several years,” says Abby. “But before you decide it’s right for your room, you should consider where these doors are being used.”

These types of doors are not ideal for rooms that require privacy or sound proofing. Since barn doors slide open and closed on an external track, they don’t provide the usual seal of a hinged door, so light and sound can seep around the edges.

Pantries, laundry rooms or offices are good places to add a barn door. In the past, they were often part of a rustic design aesthetic, but barn doors can be more modern depending on the track selected and the door’s materials.

Pocket doors can be a great option for small rooms or an area with many doors in a tight place, where the multiple door swings would come together. These doors slide on a track and disappear into a pocket in the wall, just be sure the designated wall isn’t filled with electrical, plumbing, or ventilation. “Pocket doors are great for space-saving, but the tracks can have issues and get noisy over time,” cautions Abby.

French doors are another statement-worthy option for the traditional hinged door. “When you want to bring in natural light from an adjacent room or give a sense of openness, French doors are a great option,” Abby says. “These open glass doors are ideal for offices or family rooms, where full privacy isn’t a concern.”

Deciding which accent door will work with the rest of your home’s aesthetic can be challenging. “There are a lot of different door styles out there, so it’s best to opt for simplicity,” suggests Abby. “This can make it easier for your stylized door to work nicely with the existing doors in your home. You want to make sure to match the door hardware finishes for a cohesive look.”

If you’re ready to discuss an upcoming remodeling project, Abby’s door is open. Schedule a meeting to talk with her about your upcoming remodeling plans. You can also find design inspiration on our Facebook page and Instagram feed.

Laundry Room with Barn Doors Sliding barn door on master closetMudroom with cubbies and a space for a dog crate Pantry with storage and appliances

 

 

Why We’re Loving Laminate for Modern Kitchens

Cooktop with stainless steel hoodIf modern, sleek, and streamlined is the vision for your kitchen remodel, look no further than laminate.  Sure, you may remember this material from the days of old, but Normandy Designer Kathryn O’Donovan says that laminate is a fresh and viable option you should consider for your kitchen remodel.

Durability

“Laminate cabinets are extremely durable and can withstand years of wear while still looking great,” notes Kathryn. “Laminate is less porous than typical wood cabinets and they resist moisture well, making them easier to keep clean.” Their sturdy, solid composition makes them able to withstand the daily bumps and dings that are commonplace in the kitchen.

Versatile

“One of the key reasons laminate cabinetry is finding its place as a top contender in today’s kitchen designs is because of its versatility,” says Kathryn.

Laminate kitchen cabinets with bright blue green backsplash

There are a variety of colors, textures and finishes available, including options that can be challenging or expensive to execute with a typical wood cabinet.

Laminate can be customized with the look and feel of wood, complete with knots and veining. But unlike traditional wood, the woodgrain pattern is not limited to the width of the tree, making it easier to create wide stretches of beautiful grain matching.

Black and white glossy laminate kitchen cabinetsManaging the varying tones and textures can be a challenge when working with natural wood, whereas laminate cabinets can be ordered in any color to suit your style. Whether an all-white kitchen is your goal, or a bold, modern color is more your thing, laminate has you covered.

Cost-Effective

For all its durability and versatility, laminate cabinets are often a less expensive option than natural wood. “Though, there are some high-end Italian lines that are certainly pricier,” Kathryn notes.

Customized laminate cabinets can have a gorgeous look and feel, when done properly. This is where working with a designer to find the right solution is important.

“You want to partner with a manufacturer who has the expertise and the specialized equipment for working with laminate,” Kathryn advises. “Ensuring the cabinet edges are mitered seamlessly can only be achieved in the factory using professional machinery.”

If laminate cabinets have piqued your interest for your upcoming kitchen remodel, set up a time to talk with Kathryn to learn more. And, if you’re still in the planning phase, be sure to check out our Facebook and Instagram for design and remodeling inspiration.

 

Black kitchen cabinetry with storage beneath the island  modern white kitchen with laminate cabinets and waterfall edge island

laminate cabinets close up of waterfall edge in white kitchen  Multi tone kitchen with cooktop in the island and wall ovens

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