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.
Must-Haves for a Designer’s Dream Kitchen
By / April 26, 2018 April 26, 2018A designer’s dream kitchen consists of a mix of materials and products that a typical homeowner may not know exist. Being professionals in the industry, designers are exposed to a variety of design opportunities through a vast network of suppliers, trade organizations and their talented peers. Designer’s blend beauty, function, and durability when designing dream kitchens.
Designers are able to look at a kitchen space holistically and will offer space and organization options homeowners may not have considered. A fresh set of eyes from a talented professional can transform a space many people could not have imagined. Check out the extensive storage in the form of drawers that our client Stonington designed (see picture below). A professional does not just look at the layout of a room, they study every nook and cranny of the space. When a designer looks at an empty room, it is like a canvas with endless opportunities. Kitchen Designers have access to the most innovative products of the industry, allowing them to incorporate only the best products into a design. With all of that in mind, we highly recommend contacting a professional designer when planning your dream kitchen.
Must-Haves of a Designer’s Dream Kitchen:
Design by Bradford Design in Alexandria, Virginia
Custom Cabinets – custom cabinets can achieve a certain look that stock cabinets cannot. Sometimes a space will have an awkward corner, and custom cabinets are able to fill that space. Also, with custom cabinetry designers can ultimately choose the exact color hue of their cabinets.
Design by Stonington Cabinetry in Upper Montclair, New Jersey
Hidden Range Hoods – custom range hoods create the perfect focal point and can also blend seamlessly with the designer’s custom cabinetry.
Design by Stonington Cabinetry in Madison, New Jersey
Deep Drawers – to improve organization, designers trade out the usual lower cabinets for deep drawers for easy reach-in access for a pot or plate.
Based on the above list, Kountry Kraft can build a designer’s dream kitchen using their fine craftsmanship to create custom cabinets, deep drawers and hidden range hoods. Designers do not like to be limited, and at Kountry Kraft the choices are endless. We are always looking out for the latest and greatest in cabinetry solutions. Contact us today to get started on your dream kitchen
Stonington Cabinetry Designs w/ Kountry Kraft Cabinetry
By / February 28, 2018 March 20, 2023We work with many talented designers and we love dedicating a blog to showcase their stunning designs. This week’s blog is dedicated to noteworthy Stonington cabinetry designs. With many kitchens, bathrooms and bar areas to choose from, we have narrowed it down to the couple designs below.
Noteworthy Stonington Cabinetry Designs
Designed by Justin Sachs of Stonington Cabinetry & Designs
This custom wet bar was designed by Justin Sachs of Stonington Cabinetry & Designs. The beaded inset cabinets are made of a walnut wood with a Black Glaze 25°. This custom wet bar area has all the necessities for entertaining; two under counter mini fridges, a built in sink as well as stemware racks for hanging wine glasses. This stunning yet functional unit was purposely placed near the kitchen for entertaining purposes.
Designed by Justin Sachs of Stonington Cabinetry & Designs
Designed by Justin Sachs of Stonington Cabinetry & Designs
This kitchen is one of the noteworthy Stonington cabinetry designs because of the many custom solutions Justin incorporated into the design. This exquisite white and grey kitchen is built on simplicity and functionality. The cabinetry style is an inset/no bead with a TW10 Hybrid door style. The perimeter cabinets are finished with an Alpine White 25° Paint, and the kitchen island is finished with a Wrought Iron Paint. By utilizing our custom cabinetry storage options, there is a spot for everything in the kitchen. The storage will keep the kitchen uncluttered and organized.
Designed by Justin Sachs of Stonington Cabinetry & Designs
A custom walnut wood bench top, crafted by Kountry Kraft, was incorporated into the entryway of the kitchen, with a mini fridge next to it creating a mini entertainment area.
Designed by Stonington Cabinetry & Designs
This pure white kitchen is designed by Stonington Cabinetry & Designs. This home already had unique historic beauty, and the clients wanted to compliment those historic elements in their kitchen remodel. The cabinetry style is 3001 with a TW1038 Hybrid door design. The cabinets were finished in a custom paint color to match old village #1701 pure white. The cabinetry gives the kitchen a timeless look, complementing the rest of the historic aspect in the home.
View more of our designers by visiting on our Houzz Page. Have some favorite designs that you want to learn more about? Contact us and we can gladly send you project info!
Focal Point Design
By / February 14, 2018 March 20, 2023In a seamless design, it is sometimes difficult to create a focal point design unless it derives naturally from existing features. Many of our customers have used eye-catching elements for the focal point in their kitchen, but others chose a custom range hood or a custom cabinet design. With Kountry Kraft’s custom cabinetry options, we are able to provide our customers with the solutions they need to complete their kitchen design. Our cabinets beautifully frame the hearth of the home.
The below designs illustrate how some of our designers used range hoods and cabinetry to create their kitchen focal point.
Custom Kitchen Focal Point Designs
The focal point in this kitchen designed by Justin Sachs of Stonington Cabinetry & Designs is completed with a Thermador range hood and brick walls. Custom Alpine white beaded inset cabinets surround the range hood to really make the focal point pop.
All eyes glance right to the kitchen island in this design by Stonington Cabinetry & Designs. The perimeter cabinetry is Alpine white and the island cabinetry is wrought iron. The island was built to stand out, creating a naturally beautiful kitchen focal point. A truly wonderful space that is not only stunning, but functional as well.
This kitchen focal point features a Thermador hood insert with a double oven and a grey tile backsplash. The focal point is framed with a custom range hood and custom cabinetry finished in a Alpine 25° Paint Color. Justin Sachs of Stonington Cabinetry and Designs designed this kitchen.
Visit our Houzz page to see more recently completed projects by our designers. Contact us to find a dealer near you to create your custom kitchen design!
American Made Cabinets
By / January 31, 2018 December 19, 2022American made cabinets by Kountry Kraft are for any room of your home. Our American made cabinets are durable as well as stylish, creating a long-lasting impression in your home.
Why Choose American Made Cabinets?
There are many reasons why you should choose American made cabinets, one being the family values they are crafted upon. Many American made cabinet manufacturers are a family operated business, having many company standards and traditions. Kountry Kraft is a family owned business with a three-generation legacy, founded in 1959 by Elvin Sr. and Helen Hurst on the Hurst family farm. The Hurst family established the traditions of hard work, dedication, honesty and clear communication. Another reason to choose made in USA cabinets is the quality. The skilled craftsmen of Kountry Kraft have over 1500 combined years of experience, which is indefinitely represented in our cabinets. Our quality construction cabinets withstand the test of time and create new family legacies in kitchens.
“Edgy” Textural Cabinetry by Kountry Kraft in a Kitchen Design by Pam Whittemore of Drum Hill Designs in Greenwich, Connecticut
PK Surroundings Won Honorable Mention for their Medium Kitchen Design with Kountry Kraft Cabinetry in the 2017 NKBA Design Competition
Kountry Kraft is always on the pulse of current trends and they show it with their award-winning designs. The quality craftsmanship and the family values we implement into our cabinets is incorporated in many kitchen designs. Visit our Houzz page to view some recently complete projects with our American made cabinets. You can also be inspired by browsing our inspirations page for every room!