Celebrating 60 Years of Excellence in Custom-Made Cabinetry
By / April 10, 2019 March 27, 2019Kountry Kraft is proud to be celebrating 60 years in business! This diamond anniversary signifies growth, responsibility, values and security which are all characteristics that Kountry Kraft has honored throughout the years.
Throughout the 60 Years
It all started in 1958, Elvin Hurst was a farmer raising a family of his own with this wife, Helen Hurst. In addition to farming, Elvin worked as a cabinet maker. He enjoyed woodworking so much that Helen saved $10 a month to buy Elvin a $110 Craftsman Table Saw for Christmas that year. This gift brought so many opportunities for Elvin that he did not see coming. The demand for his creations exceeded his ability to supply. So, with the help of his parents, Reuben and Mary Hurst, Elvin launched Kountry Kraft in April of 1959. Without Helen, there would be no Kountry Kraft!
Because of Elvin’s commitment to quality woodworking, Kountry Kraft became widely known for top level craftsmanship and impeccable service, and their popularity soared. Elvin continued to use the saw for 18 years as the company rapidly expanded from their four-car garage to a 96,000 square foot facility with a staff of over 100 skilled craftsmen.
In 2000, Elvin became chairman of the board after serving as president of the company for 40 years. This move represented the change from him being active in the daily management of the company. Elvin and Helen realized that it was a necessity for both the company and the industry to prepare for the next generation. It was with great pride that they gave managerial control of Kountry Kraft to two of their four children in 2003, Elvin Hurst Jr. and Dee Hurst-Funk, who spent their entire lives working in every facet of the business.
Over the past 60 years the office and manufacturing facility remains on the Hurst family farm in the beautiful Pennsylvania Dutch countryside. The third generation of Hurst family members are now being groomed to manage the company in the future. We are so excited to be celebrating 60 years in business and look forward to many more!
To view all the exquisite projects Kountry Kraft has created over the past 60 years, visit our website or Houzz page!
#DiamondAnniversary #KKTurns60 #KountryKraft #CustomCabinetry #60YearAnniversary
Sprucing up Kitchen Islands with Kountry Kraft Cabinetry
By / March 13, 2019 February 22, 2023Kitchen islands can provide many advantages to your kitchen if utilized properly. By simply adding customizable cabinetry you can create different storage options while also adding character to your kitchen!
Kitchen Islands with Kountry Kraft Cabinetry
Design by PK Surroundings Photography by Rob Karosis
This large kitchen island features a mini fridge on the side. Perfect for freeing up space in the bigger fridge and having all your drinks easily on hand while sitting at the island.
Design by Kountry Kraft, Inc.
This kitchen island is all about function and adjustability. The sliding cabinet doors allow for easy accessibility to the open cabinet while displaying the dishware. That’s not all, the shelving is able to be adjusted to any height depending on what needs to be stored!
Design by Jessica McAllister of Kountry Kraft, Inc.
You can take advantage of unused space at the end of your island by creating a bookshelf! Even if you don’t have cookbooks, this is a great place to showcase collectibles to give the kitchen character.
Design by Dee Maher of Kountry Kraft, Inc.
Even the tiniest of kitchens can have an ample amount of storage space by taking advantage of every nook and cranny. By adding base pull-outs into your kitchen island, you can do just that!
No matter the size or shape of your kitchen island there is always a way to create the perfect storage solution, tailored just for you! Visit our website to view all the custom storage options we have crafted or check out our Houzz page to see some of our recently completed designs!
#CustomCabinetry #KitchenIslandStorage #KountryKraft #KitchenIslandCabinetry
2019 Kitchen Cabinet Trends
By / February 25, 2019 December 20, 2022New year means new kitchen cabinet trends. Kountry Kraft is always staying up to date with the latest and greatest trends to provide our customers with exclusive kitchen design ideas.
2019 Kitchen Cabinet Trends
Wood on Wood
Design by Marina Rubina, Architect Photography by Todd Mason, Halkin Photography
When you think of using wood in a kitchen your mind automatically goes to hardwood flooring. But the versatility of wood allows for it to be used in many more ways. Featured above are custom cabinet boxes showcasing wooden shelves inside as well. The custom walnut cabinetry is finished with a natural 25° stain, creating a warming and welcoming environment.
Storage Walls
Design by Integrated Kitchens LLC
In 2019 were not letting any space go to waste. Storage walls are on the rise due to their functionality and ample amount of storage. Add pantry pull outs to incorporate easy accessibility, as shown above.
Shelving
Design by Stonington Cabinetry & Designs Photography by Chris Veith
Open shelving has been a popular trend since 2018 and continues to rise in 2019. But this year glass shelving is on the rise as well. Glass shelving creates a new dimension while allowing your exquisite dishware to be portrayed. We can see why glass and open shelving are becoming more popular due to the similarity between the two.
Dark Dramatic Colors
Design by Samantha Petzrick Chinn of Petzrick Chinn Designs, LLC
This year is all about dark and dramatic colors. By incorporating dark cabinetry, you can add some flare to an all-white kitchen. Adding depth and personality to your space.
Natural Touches
Design by PKsurroundings Photography by Mike Barron, Tech Simple, LLC
Adding natural touches in a kitchen is becoming more popular due to the unique and unfinished look it creates. Featured above is Kountry Kraft’s weathered grain cabinets that bring a warm and rustic feel into this kitchen.
Kountry Kraft wants the best for your home, which is why we are constantly keeping up with the current kitchen cabinet trends. Visit our website to gain kitchen inspiration on how to incorporate these trends during your next kitchen remodel! You can also check out our Houzz page to view our recently completed designs!
#CustomCabinetry #2019CabinetTrends #KountryKraft #KitchenCabinetTrends
Sources: Decoraid, Elle Decor
Using the 2019 Pantone Color of the Year
By / January 24, 2019 January 24, 2019Living Coral was chosen as the 2019 Pantone Color of the Year. For the past 20 years Pantone has been choosing one color that is influential in all industries.
Pantone Color of the Year – Living Coral
Pantone is known for its color matching system, a tool to allow consistent and accurate color everywhere. This means you can make sure any color matches without having to lay them out next to each other, all you need is the numerical color value. To go further in depth with color, Pantone created the Pantone Color Institute to identify global color trends.
The Pantone Color Institute goes through a selection process every year with their color experts. Looking for a specific shade that is on trend in the entertainment industry, films in production, fashion, design and many more. This year they chose Living Coral, a vibrant yet mellow shade.
Using the Pantone Color of the Year
Sherwin Williams Paint Match – Animated Coral
Our designers decided to make our own unique color based on the color of the year. We created a paint match to Sherwin Williams Animated Coral and created this beautiful coral shade shown above. This shade will create a refreshing pop of color, creating a luminous glow to any space. This piece was later placed in a beautiful beach house bathroom.
Design by Pure Design Works Photography by Jenny Melick Imagery
Pure Design Works kept this beach bathroom light and bright with pineapple wallpaper and coral cabinetry. The same cabinetry that was previously shown above! The impact of the lighting can change the whole look of this color. Previously this color showed a bright pale pink whereas here it showcases a darker hue.
Pantone Living Coral is a unique shade that can be used in all types of spaces. Whether it is in a beach house or your everyday kitchen. Knowing how to correspond this shade with your surroundings will result in a beautiful design.
Kountry Kraft offers a wide variety of custom pain match formulas. Allowing you to get the exact color you want for your home. Visit our website to view all the current custom paint matches to gain inspiration. Contact us to incorporate the Pantone color of the year into your space!
#KountryKraft #PantoneColorOfTheYear #CustomCabinetry #LivingCoral #2019PantoneColorOfTheYear #PaintMatch
Determining the Correct Kitchen Layout
By / January 9, 2019 February 25, 2023A kitchen layout is vital when it comes to remodeling your space. We cover the most common kitchen layouts below.
Common Kitchen Layouts
Design by Thomas R. Kelly of the TRK Design Company
U-Shaped
A U-shaped kitchen is characterized by three walls that create a U shape. This design is best for large kitchens because it allows for a kitchen island to fit in the middle. Providing more seating and storage. This style layout also creates the most effective work triangle.
Design by Dee Maher for Kountry Kraft, Inc.
L-Shaped Layout
An L-shaped layout is characterized by two adjoining counters that create an angle in a kitchen. This type of layout is one of the most popular due to its ability to work in small and large kitchens. Add a kitchen island to provide more seating and an extra space to prep food.
Design by Aly Glavin and Dara Barber of Pure Design Works
G-Shaped Layout
A G-shaped layout is very similar to a U-shaped layout, but it includes extra counter space. This type only works with large kitchens. Adding a peninsula can create a seating area that acts as a kitchen island and provide extra surface space.
Design by Marina Rubina, Architect
Galley Layout
A galley layout is two walls or parallel countertops that oppose each other. This is best used for smaller kitchens that don’t have the extra space. The kitchen shown above features a galley layout that creates an efficient work space for this small area.
Design by Tyler Hurst of Kountry Kraft, Inc.
Single Wall Layout
A single wall layout will open the rest of the house providing extra spacing for islands and dining areas. Characterized by a single wall of appliances and work space, this works best in a small kitchen to utilize space in an efficient way.
Whether you have a small or large kitchen, there is a design that will work best for you. Kountry Kraft has the ability to create custom cabinetry and accessories to fit any size space to maximize storage to the fullest. Visit our website to see kitchens we have completed featuring all different types of layouts.
Sources: Types of kitchen layouts
Best Time of the Year for a Kitchen Remodel
By / December 26, 2018 February 22, 2023Choosing the perfect time for a kitchen remodel can be stressful. But with a few tips you will be on your way to a brand-new kitchen in no time.
Best Time for a Kitchen Remodel
Deciding the correct time to remodel your kitchen shouldn’t be based on what worked best for others. Every process is different depending on the client. Take a look at what describes your situation.
Design by April Spagnolo of Evalia Design, LLC
Remodeling in the Summer
It seems the summer is when our clients tend to remodel their kitchen the most. Below are the most common reasons why:
- Able to cook elsewhere while kitchen is under construction
- Cook on the grill/eat outside on deck or table
- Kitchen remodel will be completed before the holidays
- Plan a summer vacation around the remodel
- Come home to a brand-new kitchen
- Ability to open windows to let any dust/odors outside
- Longer days – natural lighting
- More time to work on the project/completed faster
Since clients remodel the most during the summer it causes the summer months to be busier. This can result in a higher cost or the chance your project will not be completed at the preferred time.
Design by Marina Rubina, Architect
Remodeling in the Winter
Clients typically stay away from home remodels during the winter months due to upcoming holidays. Below are the reasons why it can be a good idea for a kitchen remodel in the winter:
- During contractors’ slow season
- Availability to get your remodel scheduled faster
- Possibility of your kitchen being under construction during the holidays
- If your traveling during the holidays you can avoid the construction
- Get the remodel finished before the busy season where price increases take place
Deciding on whether summer or winter is the right time for you comes down to your flexibility, availability and when you would like the project completed. Though the summer may be the perfect time for others, it may not be the right time for you. Plan your kitchen remodel from start to finish to ensure a smooth and stress-free process.
Visit our website to see some kitchen inspiration or check out our Houzz page to view some recently completed designs. Still have questions on when to remodel? Contact us!
#CustomCabinetry #BestTimeToRemodel #KitchenRemodel #KountryKraft
Sources: Best Time of Year to Remodel, Reasons Summer is the Best Time to Remodel and Planning Tips
Kountry Kraft Keeping up with the Current Kitchen Trends
By / August 22, 2018 October 29, 2018Each year there is always current kitchen trends on the rise. Whether it’s old styles that are becoming popular again or introducing new styles altogether. Kountry Kraft offers endless options to keep up with the current kitchen trends.
Current Kitchen Trends
Designed by Stonington Cabinetry & Designs
Effective storage solution cabinetry is one kitchen trend that Kountry Kraft has crafted an abundance of times. By incorporating this design into your kitchen, it can create an organized look by keeping storage items concealed.
Designed by TRK Design Company
Another kitchen trend is incorporating single level multi personal kitchen islands. By adding under counter appliances to your kitchen island you allow for more storage and space to add more cabinetry around your kitchen.
Designed by Stonington Cabinetry & Designs
Open shelving is becoming a huge trend in kitchen design this year. By adding open shelves, it can be visually pleasing and creates a unique aesthetic in your kitchen.
Designed by Stonington Cabinetry & Designs
Navy blue is becoming a trending color for kitchen cabinets in 2018. By incorporating a decorative backsplash against the navy-blue cabinets, it can create a contrast that is aesthetically pleasing to the eye.
Designed by Stonington Cabinetry & Designs
And lastly, gray is the new go-to neutral shade. Warm shades of gray offer neutrality to a kitchen while also adding a splash of color unlike the color white. Gray is also flexible in terms of matching appliances and accessories to the color. Incorporating gray into your kitchen will portray a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Kountry Kraft is always looking out for the latest kitchen trends and using their fine craftsmanship to bring them to life. Visit Kountry Kraft’s Devon Showroom to speak to a design professional about incorporating the current kitchen trends into your kitchen.
Determining Kitchen Design Style with Kountry Kraft Cabinetry
By / July 11, 2018 October 29, 2018If you decide to remodel your kitchen you must consider a design style that reflects your needs and personality. When considering your design style, you should decide which style will coincide with other parts of your home.
Types of Design Styles
Designed by Jessica McAllister of Kountry Kraft, Inc.
Traditional Design
It incorporates antiques and comfort all in one. Patterns are often used with this design style paired with neutral colors. Traditional style will feature classic designs with woodwork and carved moldings.
Designed by Stonington Cabinetry & Designs
Transitional Design
Contemporary and traditional style combined into one. You may keep your traditional style cabinetry and incorporate the contemporary side other places. Transitional style includes neutral and soothing colors to allow the furniture to be the focal point of the room.
Designed by Stonington Cabinetry & Designs
Farmhouse Design
Consists of neutral colors with a vintage ambiance. This design can portray warmth and simplicity in your home. Farmhouse style can include features such as, exposed wood beams, butcher blocks, and hanging barn doors.
Designed by Burns Century, ASID, CKD, of Burns Century Interior Design
Contemporary Design
Defined as clean and simple. Whereas modern design style is boxy lines, contemporary style features a combination of straight and curvy lines. Stainless steel is a common feature in a contemporary style kitchen followed by white cabinetry.
Designed by Dee Maher in Collaboration with Kountry Kraft, Inc.
Modern Design
Favors sleek, minimalist design over intricate detail. Modern cabinetry includes straight lines and contrast. The colors are dramatic such as white and black tones. Kitchen surfaces are reflective such as steel, chrome or glass.
No matter what design style you choose when creating or remodeling your kitchen, make sure it accommodates your lifestyle. A Kountry Kraft designer can help you create custom cabinetry to synchronize with the design style you choose.
Contact us to bring your design style to life! Visit our Houzz page to view our recently completed projects by our designers.
Popular Kitchen Cabinet Ideas
By / May 23, 2018 February 25, 2023When updating a kitchen style with something new and unique, there are many popular kitchen cabinet ideas to consider. Reworking cabinetry can add a fresh new look to a kitchen. Kountry Kraft is always staying up to date with the latest innovations in cabinetmaking, allowing us to provide our customers with exclusive kitchen cabinet ideas.
Kitchen Cabinet Ideas
High-Gloss Cabinets
High gloss cabinets are powerful statement makers – providing a lacquer-look on cabinetry. The deep, mirror-like appearance becomes more noticeable and eye catching.
Designed by Burns Century Interior Design
Sliding Doors
Barn-style sliding cabinet doors have become a popular choice in cabinetry for every room of a home. The sliding door is used to achieve the farmhouse style look for industrial, modern or traditional homes.
Designed by Galen Clemmer of Kountry Kraft, Inc.
Two-Tone Cabinets
Two toned cabinets provide the contrasting look a room desires. When a kitchen has a multi-color backsplash, two-toned cabinets can help blend the colors together. Two toned cabinets are also used to add warmth or coolness to a space,
Designed by Shawn Preis of Kountry Kraft, Inc. Designed by Jessica McAllister of D&B Elite Construction Group
Mesh Inserts
Mesh inserts give a slight peek at what’s inside the cabinet without putting the contents on full display. They work well in both traditional and contemporary designs, bringing a sense of old-world charm.
Designed by Samantha Petzrick Chinn of Petzrick Chinn Designs, LLC
Mirrored Cabinets
The industrial appeal of steel doesn’t have to stop at stainless-steel appliances, mirrored cabinet doors can extend the industrial style feel of the space. Incorporating mirrors into cabinetry can make the room feel more casual and welcoming.
Designed by Sawhorse Designs
Have different kitchen cabinet ideas in mind? Contact us today to bring your ideas to life. Visit our Houzz page to view our recently completed projects for inspiration!
Kountry Kraft President Explains Cabinetry with Ryan Serhant
By / May 9, 2018 February 24, 2023Kountry Kraft was chosen to educate television personality, Ryan Serhant, in the art of cabinetmaking for his new television show, Sell it Like Serhant. The Bravo TV team discovered Kountry Kraft on Instagram and were instantly impressed by their cabinetry work. In the episode aired on Wednesday, April 25, Ryan Serhant was on a mission to teach Frank, the struggling salesman, about how custom cabinetry is made. With only a week left before Frank would lose his job, Serhant went directly to the expert himself, Elvin Hurst Jr., President of Kountry Kraft.
Elvin Hurst, Jr. is the son of the founders, Elvin Hurst, Sr. and Helen Hurst, whom purchased the company with his sister, Dee Hurst-Funk in February 2003. Elvin and Dee have been immersed in the family business since they were born. Growing up alongside their hardworking parents gave them a strong desire to guide Kountry Kraft into the future.
Elvin taught Ryan and Frank the artistry and talent required to making quality cabinetry; beginning with cutting down the tree all the way to crafting the cabinet door. Elvin chose to teach Ryan and Frank how to create a distressed cabinet – or as Ryan Serhant would call it; “like a worn pair of jeans”. Elvin guided the two men through the steps of creating a distressed cabinet. As Elvin explained the cabinetmaking process, Ryan made sure Frank was taking notes.
Step 1: Dubbing using a sander
Step 2: Rasping using a file
Step 3: Dings and dents using a chain
Step 4: Worn holes using a scaler
Ryan Serhant, Frank, Elvin Hurst, Jr. and Kountry Kraft Craftsman
“Let’s make some cabinets!” Ryan shouted when it was his turn to create the “worn cabinet look”. Ryan and Frank were stunned when they saw their finished product. Ryan Serhant had such a great time that he stated, “if real estate doesn’t work out, I’m selling cabinets!” Frank could now see how the entire process was done by hand, and that became a unique selling point for him; telling the story. Every aspect of Kountry Kraft’s cabinetry is completely done by hand by the talented craftsmen.
Click here to watch an exclusive behind the scenes clip of Ryan Serhant with Elvin Hurst, Jr. at the Kountry Kraft manufacturing facility.