Celebrating 65 Years of Custom Cabinets with Kountry Kraft
By / July 15, 2024 July 19, 2024Kountry Kraft is celebrating 65 years of custom cabinets! Here’s the story of how we came to be the oldest family-owned custom cabinetry manufacturer in the USA still managed by the original family.
The Gift of a Sears Craftsman Saw
Kountry Kraft’s journey to 65 years of custom cabinets begins with the Christmas of 1958. Helen Hurst, secretly setting aside money week by week, surprised her husband Elvin with a brand new Sears Craftsman Table Saw. Behold, a passion for woodworking was born.
From a Hobby to a Business
With his trusty Sears Craftsman Saw, Elvin began making quality custom cabinets for friends and family. It wasn’t long until word got out and demand for his custom cabinets grew. In April 1959, the Hursts officially launched Kountry Kraft in their garage with the support of Elvin’s parents, Reuben and Mary. Balancing the demands of a new business and family of six, Elvin and Helen’s hard work and dedication soon paid off.
Growing Demand for Quality Custom Cabinets
As demand for quality custom cabinets grew, so did the company. Expanding to a 96,000 square foot facility and employing over 100 skilled craftsmen, Kountry Kraft’s reputation for quality and service flourished. Their strong commitment to excellence and innovative spirit were instrumental in this growth, establishing them as creators of the best cabinetry on the market.
Pictured from left to right: Elvin Hurst, Jr. (President), Elvin Hurst Sr., Helen Hurst, and Dee Hurst-Funk (CKD, CFO)
The Next Generation
Two of the Hurst children, Elvin Jr. and Dolores, took an interest in the family business and learned how to manage the company alongside their parents. They purchased the company in 2003, effectively passing the reins to the next generation of Hursts. They continue to steer Kountry Kraft with the same dedication and passion as their parents, ensuring the company’s values and craftsmanship remain unchanged. The original Sears Craftsman Saw that started it all still stands in the showroom lobby today, an everlasting reminder of what dedication to quality service and products can achieve.
Innovating Kitchen Cabinet Production for the Best Cabinetry
Today, Kountry Kraft blends traditional craftsmanship with cutting-edge technology, utilizing computerized panel saws, dovetailing machines, and pneumatic assembly systems to maintain efficiency and precision for our kitchen cabinets. But, our true value lies in our hardworking team who is not only skilled in the art of custom cabinetry, but also maintaining a legacy of excellent service.
Celebrating 65 Years of Custom Cabinets
As we celebrate 65 years of custom cabinets, Kountry Kraft’s mission—to build dreams—continues to resonate through our dedication to customer service, communication, on-time delivery, and high-quality cabinetry at an exceptional value. If you’d like to be a part of our legacy, please contact one of our experts today. And to our valued Kountry Kraft community, thank you so much for all of the support you’ve given us over the years. We can’t wait to see what the next 65 have in store.
Kountry Kraft Award Winning Designers
By / June 5, 2024 June 1, 2024Kountry Kraft has the great pleasure of honoring several of our award winning designers for their outstanding work. Here’s a look at their many achievements and a glimpse into what makes them award winning designers.
Pictured from left to right: Allan Greene; Claudia Harvey from Wydian Kitchens & Design; and Roger Yiengst, Sales Manager at Kountry Kraft
Award Winning Designers—Wydian Kitchens
Claudia Harvey and her team at Wydian Kitchens in Branchburg, NJ have received the esteemed Platinum Achievement Award for the third year in a row. Featured in Martha Stewart Living and Design NJ, Wydian Kitchens uses their nearly 30 years of experience to create close relationships with every customer, working together to design a unique space that reflects each individual’s desires and personality. While they made their name on kitchen design, they also do bathrooms, laundry rooms, bars, libraries, offices, mudrooms, pet friendly spaces, and custom closets. Whether you’re just purchasing cabinets or taking advantage of their full-service design resources, their customer service is sure to impress. Check out Wydian Kitchens’ Instagram to explore their designs.
Pictured from left to right: Todd Perkins, Kountry Kraft Sales Rep; Martha Gargano of AMS Kitchens; and Roger Yiengst, Sales Manager at Kountry Kraft
Award Winning Designers—A Matter of Style (AMS) Kitchens & Interiors
Martha Gargano and her team at AMS Kitchens & Interiors in Cheshire, CT are proudly presented the Platinum Achievement Award. No stranger to accolades, AMS Kitchens & Interiors were the winners of Kountry Kraft’s 2021 Top Design Award and had several of their kitchen designs featured in Design + Decor. A full-service design firm that specializes in high-end interior design, AMS Kitchens & Interiors handles a wide array of projects ranging from new construction to renovation. Visit their online portfolio to view their outstanding work.
Pictured from left to right: Andres; Christopher (Chris) Gray; Nicholas (Nick) Palladino; Anthony Palladino; and Roger Yiengst, Sales Manager at Kountry Kraft
Award Winning Designers—Southeast Kitchen & Bath
The Southeast Kitchen & Bath design team in Brewster, NY has earned the Platinum Achievement Award. A family owned and operated business that provides such great service, their customers voted them 2024 Best of Houzz Service Winner for the ninth year in a row. All project personnel are a part of the Southeast Kitchen & Bath team, which gives them full control of day-to-day operations. This control combined with close customer collaboration leads to a truly seamless process that leaves clients more than thrilled. Check out Southeast Kitchen & Bath’s Instagram to get a sneak peak into their current projects.
Pictured from left to right: Todd Perkins, Kountry Kraft Sales Rep; Beth Veillette; Allison Hanford; and Roger Yiengst, Sales Manager at Kountry Kraft
Award Winning Designers—Hanford Cabinet & Woodworking
The Hanford Cabinet team in Old Saybrook, CT has received the prestigious Sapphire Achievement Award. Founded over 35 years ago, the company’s focus on fine craftsmanship and quality that will last a lifetime has never wavered. Visit Hanford Cabinet’s project gallery to explore a wide array of their beautiful designs.
Pictured from left to right: Roger Yiengst, Sales Manager at Kountry Kraft and Patty Kershaw
Award Winning Designers—James Kershaw Associates
The design team of James Kershaw Associates in North Haledon, NJ has been honored with the Silver Achievement Award. Headed by a father and daughter duo, this design company will treat you like family and make sure that every detail of your project is carefully considered. Visit James Kershaw Associates’ kitchens, baths, and other rooms pages to see why they’ve been NJ’s trusted designers for over three decades.
Pictured: Amy Pasek of Integrated Kitchens
Award Winning Designers—Integrated Kitchens
Amy Pasek and her team at Integrated Kitchens in Walnut Creek, CA have received the Silver Achievement Award, a true testament to their dedication, hard work, and commitment to excellence. From budgeting and design to communicating with installers and contractors during the construction process, Integrated Kitchens does it all. Check out Integrated Kitchens’ online portfolio to explore their award-winning designs, like the one that earned them Kountry Kraft’s 2021 Top Design Award.
Congratulations to Kountry Kraft’s Award Winning Designers!
Kountry Kraft is routinely blown away by the designs that our partners create with our cabinetry. Congratulations to all of Kountry Kraft’s award winning designers for these amazing milestones. We cannot wait to see all of the incredible things you’ll do in the future!
Inspirational Designs that Honor Your Pets
By / May 5, 2024 May 7, 2024When remodeling, designing a space to suit your family’s specific needs is the most important consideration. And as a beloved member of the family, you should think about your pet’s needs too! Here are a few ways you can incorporate designs that honor your pets (and make life easier) into your home.
Designed by Kountry Kraft
Laundry Room Designs that Honor Your Pets
This laundry room in Wernersville, PA doubles as a doggie day spa with a built-in pet wash station and plenty of cabinetry to store grooming supplies. Gone are the days of wrangling a wriggling mass of fur into a too-small sink or the hated bathtub. The spacious, walk-in design allows your pooch to step right in for a hassle-free rinse! Make sure to opt for a tile floor to easily mop up wet paw prints, and consider hanging some hooks for wet towels. As far as designs that honor your pets go, you can’t beat the adorable dog motif wallpaper that puts the finishing touch on this pup inspired laundry room.
Designed by The Cabinet Company
Kitchen Designs that Honor Your Pets
Whether you’re team dog or team cat, say goodbye to cluttered feeding areas with bowls scattered across the floor. Instead, incorporate a custom built-in feeding station that seamlessly blends into the kitchen cabinetry. Not only will this help keep your kitchen looking nice and pretty, but the elevated bowls also promote better posture and digestion for your furry friends. It’s a win-win! Finish off the feeding station with pull-out drawers underneath the bowls for convenient food and treat storage.
Custom Designs that Honor Your Pets
Like we mentioned in the beginning, designing a space to suit your family’s specific needs is the biggest concern. Let us know your ideas for designs that honor your pets and we’ll show you how we can bring them to life! Contact one of our design experts today to get started.
Coffee Station Inspiration
By / April 5, 2024 March 30, 2024
Searching for some coffee station inspiration? Look no further! We’ve compiled a list of coffee station ideas ranging from simple to high-end to spark your imagination. Here is our favorite coffee station inspiration:
Hidden Coffee Station Inspiration
As an everyday item, coffee makers usually have a permanent home on the counter—and rightly so. But that doesn’t mean you want to look at it 24/7 when it only takes a few minutes to brew a pot of coffee. That’s the beauty of hidden coffee stations. Whether you opt for a simple, small appliance garage or a large cabinet that opens to reveal a full coffee bar, a hidden coffee station will keep your countertops looking sleek and clean while preserving the easy access needed for your morning routine.
Keurig® Organization Inspiration
Keurig® coffee makers are extremely convenient because they take up minimal counter space and allow everyone to have their own fresh cup of coffee. The only problem is storing all of those K-cup® pods! That’s why your Keurig® coffee station won’t be complete without a drawer, preferably located right under the coffee machine, to store the pods and keep the station nice and neat. Drawer inserts will also help organize the pods, allowing you to easily grab the desired flavor.
Built-In Miele Coffee Station
For coffee connoisseurs, a built-in coffee machine from Miele could be well worth the investment. This top-of-the-line machine will make everything from espressos to cappuccinos to latte macchiatos perfectly without fail. Boasting ten programmable user profiles and several bean holders, you can make one or two cups of specialty coffee simultaneously with just the touch of a button. And c’mon, how pretty is it?!
More Coffee Station Inspiration with Kountry Kraft
For more coffee station inspiration, check out Kountry Kraft’s lookbook on Instagram. Ready to bring your vision to life? Contact one of our kitchen design experts today
Easy Tips for Creating a Clutter Free Entryway
By / March 5, 2024 March 5, 2024With a house’s entryway serving as the main thoroughfare, it’s no wonder that it can get messy—fast. Everything from coats and shoes to wallets and keys tend to be tossed all over if they don’t have a dedicated, accessible storage spot. Creating a clutter free entryway can seem like a daunting task, but thankfully it’s not as hard as you may think. Here are some simple tips for creating a clutter free entryway that will be easy to keep beautiful and organized.
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Declutter
Be selective with the things you store in the entryway. Everyday items like keys, wallets, purses, and backpacks should have a home in your new, organized entryway. The same can be said for coats and shoes, but be strict with identifying which ones are everyday items. Less used items can be stored elsewhere in the home.
Design by Wydian Kitchens
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Establish Zones
Group like items together and establish dedicated storage zones. Coats go in one spot, backpacks in another. This way, everyone can easily grab the items on their way out of the house and (more importantly) return them to their spots upon arriving home.
Mudroom Storage Cabinets Short Hills, NJ
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Shoe Storage
Shoes are a big contributor to entryway clutter, even with the “everyday” rule. This is especially true in households with more people. That’s why it’s important to incorporate some kind of shoe storage in your entryway, preferably concealed. Built-in cabinets offer any number of solutions from pull-out shelves to hidden cabinets to cubbies. Other options include a stand-alone shoe cabinet or a simple box. Encourage family members to remove their shoes and place them in their designated spot right when they walk in the door.
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Coat Storage
There are two options for coat storage: hangers and hooks. Built-in cabinets can provide hidden hanger storage if your entryway wasn’t built with a coat closet. But for busy families on the go? My recommendation is hooks. Hooks are easier for children (and parents!) to hang their coats on which means they’re more likely to use them. Encourage family members to hang their coats up right when they get home so they don’t get thrown on a chair or couch.
Transitional Gray Mudroom Sinking Spring, PA
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Backpack Storage
Say goodbye to rushing around in the mornings trying to hunt down the kids’ backpacks. Incorporate a hook or cubby in the entryway where backpacks are housed and get your children in the routine of leaving them there when they get home from school. Backpacks can be retrieved when it’s time to do homework and returned to their spot afterwards, ready to go for the next morning.
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Seasonal Maintenance
Some of your everyday items will change throughout the year. For example, make sure you switch out your winter coat and boots at the start of spring instead of just adding more items to the entryway. Also take some time to make sure unnecessary things haven’t accumulated by mistake. If they have, return them to their proper place in the house.
Need Help Creating a Clutter Free Entryway?
Kountry Kraft is proud to offer custom cabinetry for all of your entryway storage needs. Contact one of our cabinet experts today to get started!
Spice Up Your Space: Top 2024 Kitchen Design Trends to Inspire Your Remodel (with Images!)
By / February 14, 2024 February 14, 2024The top 2024 kitchen design trends are all about infusing personality into your kitchen. From earthly palettes featuring lush greens and warm woods to statement-making islands and fixtures, we’re unveiling the key takeaways of the 2024 Kitchen Trends Report released by the National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA). Get ready to be wowed by stunning visuals and design tips from hundreds of industry professionals that will make your kitchen the envy of the neighborhood.
2024 Kitchen Design Trends—Organic Palettes
One of the biggest kitchen trends in 2024 will be creating a connection to nature. What does this mean? Natural colors will dominate palettes, especially various shades of lush green. Whether a tranquil sage or rich emerald, green will be seen everywhere from wall paint to cabinet finishes to backsplashes.
Another way this trend will manifest is through natural material selections. Warm natural wood tones are making a comeback in a BIG way, and not just for butcher block counters. Keep your eye on warm woods with natural textures and patterns to be a leading kitchen cabinet trend. Stunning stone elements will also add to an organic design. Quartz countertops are beautiful on their own, but a matching slab backsplash is breathtaking.
2024 Kitchen Design Trends—Communal & Combination Islands
Islands have functioned as the heart of the kitchen for quite a while now. What’s changing for 2024 is how homeowners use them. We’re seeing a shift towards communal islands where seating is placed on two or even three sides. This setup fosters better communication and more conversation among those seated at the island, whereas the traditional “bar seating” along one island side makes it difficult.
The second part of this trend is that islands are not just for seating. A majority of homeowners are opting for combination islands which feature closed storage in addition to seating. This extra storage can make a big impact in terms of kitchen organization, especially when paired with custom organization solutions like drawer inserts and dividers.
2024 Kitchen Design Trends—Statement Fixtures
The biggest statements can be made with the smallest details. For example, glitzy gold beat out matte black as homeowners’ go-to choice for cabinet hardware, sink faucets, and lighting. Speaking of lighting, expect to see an uptick in bold fixtures, especially above kitchen islands. Finally, do not overlook the impact of a decorative range hood. We anticipate range hoods will make major waves in 2024 designs thanks to their ability to inject a high-end feel to any kitchen.
More 2024 Kitchen Design Ideas
Kountry Kraft is committed to staying on top of these 2024 kitchen design trends. Follow along on our Instagram and Facebook page to see how they play out!
Is a kitchen renovation on your 2024 New Year Resolution List? Contact one of our design experts today to learn how we can help you achieve it!
2024 Color of the Year Choices from PANTONE, Sherwin-Williams, and Benjamin Moore
By / January 11, 2024 January 11, 2024Discover the captivating hues that PANTONE, Sherwin-Williams, and Benjamin Moore have selected as their 2024 Color of the Year. From walls and cabinets to decor and accessories, these stunning shades are set to take center stage as we head into the New Year!
PANTONE 2024 Color of the Year—Peach Fuzz
PANTONE has revealed Peach Fuzz (PANTONE 13-1023) as their 2024 Color of the Year. Perfectly nestled between pink and orange, this soft peach fosters a sense of calmness, tranquility, and rejuvenation. Whether enjoying the closeness of family and friends or basking in a moment of solitary stillness, Peach Fuzz creates a nurturing sanctuary that invites you to slow down and simply feel. With references in both vintage and modern design, Peach Fuzz embodies the oh-so-sought-after timelessness that makes it an instant classic.
Sherwin-Williams 2024 Color of the Year—Upward
Sherwin-Williams has announced Upward (SW 6239 (224-C1)) as their 2024 Color of the Year. A blissful blue-gray, Upward is like taking a breath of fresh air on a sunlit day. Symbolizing forward momentum and growth, this color creates a serene atmosphere that fosters a sense of calmness and clarity. Aptly named, Upward is a visual invitation to reach for the sky and embrace transformation.
Benjamin Moore 2024 Color of the Year—Blue Nova
Benjamin Moore has chosen Blue Nova (825) as their 2024 Color of the Year. Hovering between blue and violet, Blue Nova exudes a luxuriousness reminiscent of a bygone era. Its deep, opulent tones channel a sense of regality and sophistication, transporting you into a space filled with allure and intrigue. A color that transcends time, Blue Nova is perfectly poised to transform any space into one of modern elegance.
Your Color of the Year
Kountry Kraft offers custom paint matches for the 2024 Colors of the Year. Or, explore more paint options with Kountry Kraft’s Color Studio. Contact one of our design experts for guidance in choosing your own personal Color!
Selecting the Perfect Timeless Custom Cabinet Colors
By / January 5, 2024 December 16, 2023Looking for something beyond the standard white or gray stock cabinets? Custom cabinet paint colors by Kountry Kraft are the answer! We custom match paint colors from Sherwin Williams, Farrow & Ball, and Benjamin Moore to create your perfect timeless custom cabinet color. Here’s a look at our top choices:
Timeless Custom Cabinet Colors—Shades of White
White is arguably the top timeless paint choice for cabinets because it’s classic and versatile. It suits a wide array of design aesthetics and creates a clean foundation that pairs nicely with almost any countertop, backsplash, flooring, and fixture choice. This cleanness is the key to its timeless nature. Not only is it versatile now, but it will be in the future too. If you decide to make some updates later on, you can replace one or two elements and have a brand new design without touching the cabinets.
The perimeter cabinets of this Arlington, VA kitchen were custom color matched to Dover White by Sherwin Williams. This shade is a beautiful warm white that complements the bronze fixtures and Top Knobs hardware. Visit this project’s photo gallery for more design details.
Timeless Custom Cabinet Colors—Light Neutrals
Light neutral colors like grays, beiges, and taupes are also timeless custom cabinet colors. They offer much of the same versatility as white cabinets but help add a touch of color to the space. Neutral color palettes exude a sense of sophistication and elegance that have yet to go out of style, making them perfect custom cabinet paint colors.
The inset cabinets of this Branford, CT kitchen are custom finished with Skimming Stone by Farrow & Ball. Finding its origin in 19th century skim (plaster), this warm light gray/taupe perfectly channels the design’s inspiration—the English countryside. Visit this project’s photo gallery or read our blog post for more design details.
Timeless Custom Cabinet Colors—Bold Jewel Tones
Timeless custom cabinet colors can still be bold. For those looking to make a statement, consider deep colors like navy blue or emerald green. Made popular during the Victorian era for their luxuriousness and dramatic flair, these colors feel equally at home in both traditional and contemporary designs.
The inset shaker cabinets of this Avon, CT kitchen are custom painted with Mysterious by Benjamin Moore. A navy so deep it verges on black, this rich color adds an air of refined elegance to the otherwise contemporary design. Visit this project’s photo gallery for more design details.
Create Your Own Custom Cabinet Paint Colors!
Contact one of our design experts to start searching for your perfect custom cabinet paint color today!
Design + Decor Features Kountry Kraft Kitchens by A Matter of Style
By / December 6, 2023 December 9, 2023
Congratulations to Martha Gargano of A Matter of Style (AMS Kitchens & Interiors) for having several Kountry Kraft Kitchens featured in Design + Decor Magazine! In honor of her achievement, here’s a look at Martha and what makes each of these Kountry Kraft Kitchens so newsworthy.
Prattling Pond Design by A Matter of Style
Prattling Pond Kitchen Design
This painted kitchen island design features soft white inset cabinets that are offset by a large dark island. Custom panels were built to conceal the fridge and match the surrounding cabinetry. The kitchen feels open and airy with a clean white backsplash and an abundance of natural light from all of the windows. Finally, lustrous gold hardware and fixtures were chosen to shine in the sunlight and accentuate the subtle warm veining of the stone countertops.
Tamarack Kitchen Design by A Matter of Style
Tamarack Kitchen Design
This timeless white kitchen is a masterclass of incorporating different materials and details to create visual interest in a (mostly) monochromatic color palette. All of the main design elements—cabinets, countertop, and backsplash—are white. And yet, all of the detailing combined with the mix of textures that reflect light differently prevents the space from feeling like a wall of white. The two small pops of color—brass hardware/fixtures and walnut accent countertops—add just the right amount of warmth and sophistication to the design.
Jennifer Drive Kitchen Design by A Matter of Style
Jennifer Drive Kitchen Design
This light and dark kitchen cabinet design represents a perfect marriage of modern amenities and classic charm. The soft white of the perimeter cabinets beautifully complements the soft natural light from the arched window, creating an airy and inviting atmosphere. In contrast, the large dark-stained island—complete with stunning craftsman details—grounds the design and serves as a stunning focal point. Time-honored elements like the inset cabinet construction, glass front display doors, and touches of ornamental woodwork ensure that this culinary haven will remain in style for decades to come.
About Martha & A Matter of Style
Martha is the award-winning lead designer of A Matter of Style, a high-end interior design company located in Cheshire, CT. Both Martha and the company handle a wide array of projects ranging from new construction to renovation. Visit their website to learn more about their design services.
Kountry Kraft Kitchens
Kountry Kraft is routinely blown away by the designs our partners create with our cabinetry. Congratulations to Martha and A Matter of Style on being featured in Design + Decor’s July issue, Amazing Transformations!
If you’d like your own Kountry Kraft kitchen, please contact one of our experts to get started. We will be here for you every step of the way!
Malvern Custom Kitchen Remodel by KT Highland
By / November 6, 2023 November 6, 2023
Transitional kitchen designs have become exceedingly popular in recent years because they bridge the gap between traditional and contemporary aesthetics, striking a beautiful balance that appeals to a wide range of tastes. This Malvern custom kitchen remodel near Philadelphia, PA by Jean M. Buchen, CKD of KT Highland offers the perfect case study to explore the staples of transitional kitchen design.
Neutral Color Palette
Transitional kitchens tend to feature neutral color palettes centered around various shades of white, gray, and beige. These chic and timeless colors imbue the space with elegance and sophistication while also serving as a versatile backdrop for other elements.
This Malvern custom kitchen remodel features a striking two-tone cabinet design. Lamp Room Gray paint gives the wall cabinets a fresh look while the richly stained Natural Walnut peninsula offers a subtle nod to more traditional design. Combined, the two tones create a beautiful contrast that immediately captures the eye and brings this custom kitchen to life.
Simple, Clean Lines
Transitional kitchens often showcase simple, clean lines and avoid excessive ornamentation. This minimalist approach helps create a streamlined look that’s easy on the eye. For example, this Malvern custom kitchen remodel features shaker cabinets and a white subway tile backsplash. The lines created by both of these elements—effortlessly beautiful in their simplicity—naturally encourage the eye to progress through the room, drawing you into the kitchen. They also allow you to focus on the granite countertops, a true showstopper element that would be overwhelmed by more ornate pairings.
State-of-the-Art Appliances
Appliances are one area that transitional kitchens do NOT reference the past. Many opt for sleek stainless-steel appliances that are as modern in function as they are in look. That’s exactly the route that the homeowners of this Malvern custom kitchen remodel decided to go, incorporating stainless-steel appliances from both LG and Viking. Complementary nickel cabinet hardware provides the seamless link that ties the appliances into the rest of the design.
Kountry Kraft Custom Kitchens
Kountry Kraft is proud to work with a wide array of partners to bring you beautiful custom kitchen remodels wherever you are! Find a dealer near you to get started!
For a deeper dive into this Malvern Custom Kitchen Remodel by KT Highland, check out our project photo gallery.