A Diamond Dealer Conference Celebrating 60 Years of Excellence
By / October 4, 2019 October 4, 2019 Cabinet dealer, Custom Cabinetry for Business, Custom Cabinets, Custom Kitchen Designers, handcraftsmanship, History, Kitchen Cabinets, kitchen storage, Luxury KitchensOn September 26th and 27th, dealers from across the nation, near and far, came to celebrate the 60th Anniversary of Kountry Kraft, a custom cabinet manufacturer located in Newmanstown, Pennsylvania. Kountry Kraft was founded in 1959 by Elvin Hurst, Sr. and Helen Hurst, after Helen gave him the gift of a Sears Craftsman table saw for Christmas in 1958. 60 years and three generations later, the company celebrated their diamond anniversary with a diamond dealer conference.
The conference consisted of two fun-filled days of activities. The designers took a tour of the 96,000 square foot facility and were able to see where and how their cabinet designs come to life. They also made some of the products themselves – metal fusion finish, banded a door front, dovetailed a drawer box, paint colors and more.
The different activities awarded the dealers “diamonds” that could be used to enter to win different prizes. Prizes ranged from cabinet door samples, to cabinet displays, to the grand prize which was an option of a diamond with a $6,000 value, $6,000 net off one cabinet order of choice, $6,000 net co-op dollars or 60% off one display. The lucky grand prize winners were Janice Page, CKD, and Debbie Karpiak of PKsurroundings.
Two special guest speakers presented – Richard T. Anuszkiewicz and Matthew Ferrarini – renowned leaders of the kitchen and bath design industry.
Richard T. Anuszkiewicz, also known as Richard A2Z, presented about Fashion Forward Thinking.
Matthew Ferrarini presented about the flow, function and feeling of a space.
Other kitchen and bath design leaders participated in a discussion forum leaded by Denise Grothouse, discussing major topics of the industry, including how to successfully brand your company and how to qualify leads. The leaders on the panel include Richard T. Anuszkiewicz, Justin Sachs of Stonington Cabinetry & Designs, Beth Veillette of Hanford Cabinet & Woodworking, August Reichert of Sunnyfields Cabinetry, and Janice Page of PKsurroundings.
Kountry Kraft is honored to have such great partnerships and employees. It is thanks to them that we can celebrate 60 years. Visit our Facebook page to see more photos from the diamond dealer conference!
#KountryKraft #KKTurns60 #CustomCabinetry #60thAnniversary #DiamondAnniversary
Kitchen Desk Cabinets
By / July 10, 2019 July 25, 2019 Custom Cabinets, Dream kitchen, kitchen cabinet ideas, Kitchen Cabinets, kitchen storage, Luxury Kitchens, storage ideasKitchens are the center of activity in the home – from cooking dinner to paying bills to sorting mail and more. Integrating kitchen desk cabinets into your design creates a centralized place for all of these activities. Getting your storage just right can help you stay on top of your busy schedule, as it can reduce time wasted finding items.
Including a desk into your kitchen isn’t just about finding the space for it. It’s also about finding a way to make the desk seamlessly blend into your kitchen design. With any kitchen office, use cabinets that match or complement the kitchen cabinets. Kitchen desks are also great for using otherwise wasted space in the kitchen.
Designs with Kitchen Desk Cabinets
Whether you want to put the home office in the kitchen or just set up a small desk area, find inspiration from these hardworking kitchen desk cabinets.
A custom-built desk area anchors one end of this white kitchen. Mounted cabinetry blends the office in with the rest of the kitchen, providing bountiful storage space that easily accommodates filing, schoolwork, and other needs.
Crisp white cabinetry connects this workstation with the rest of the kitchen. The space next to the block of kitchen cabinets was thought to be unusable, but a desk served as a perfect and practical addition.
Using the same style cabinetry as the rest of the kitchen, this office blends seamlessly into a previously unused space. Generous storage makes it easy to stash mail, homework, cookbooks, and important documents.
Wall-mounted cabinets hold office supplies, while drawers on either side of the built-in desk cabinets stash files and important documents.
Want more inspiration? Visit our website to see more designs with kitchen desk cabinets!
#KountryKraft #CustomCabinetry #KitchenDeskCabinets #KitchenOffice #KitchenDesk #DeskCabinets
Navy Colored Cabinets
By / May 8, 2019 April 8, 2019 Cabinetry Paint, Custom Cabinets, Dream kitchen, kitchen cabinet ideas, Kitchen Cabinets, Luxury Kitchens, Paint MatchAccording to Jennifer Ott of Houzz, the new ‘it’ color for kitchens is navy, and we couldn’t agree more. Navy Colored Cabinets are like dark denim jeans — dark denim blue never really goes out of style. In fact, after white, wood and gray, blue is often the top color that homeowners choose for their cabinets. Navy is an elegant color choice that pairs well with any color hardware, from silver to copper to gold.
Though the color itself sounds simple, there are many different shades of navy blue. From Benjamin Moore to Sherwin Williams and other national brand paint manufacturers, there is a plethora of shades to choose from. The beauty of designing custom cabinets is that you can select any shade you like and Kountry Kraft can custom paint match your cabinets to that shade. Hale Navy by Benjamin Moore, for example, is a deeply saturated shade of navy. Naval SW 6244 by Sherwin Williams is very similar to Hale Navy, but appears darker and bolder.
Designs with Navy Colored Cabinets
Integrated Kitchens LLC designed this modern kitchen for a home in Walnut Creek, California. A cross between darkest gray and navy, these cabinets were custom painted to match Benjamin Moore’s French Beret color.
Modern farmhouse meets glam in this kitchen designed by Aly Glavin and Dara Barber of Pure Design Works. Navy blue cabinetry was custom crafted to fit this u-shaped kitchen design, complemented by silver hardware and stainless appliances.
Ken Pascal of True North Cabinets, LLC designed this butler’s pantry for a home located in Darien, Connecticut. The beautiful blue cabinets were custom painted to match Benjamin Moore’s Hale Navy color. Creating a crisp design, the blue pops against the white backsplash and countertops. The silver hardware and beverage fridge complement the saturated navy shade.
This transitional kitchen was designed by Stonington Cabinetry & Designs for a home in Bay Head, New Jersey. The cabinets were custom painted to match Benjamin Moore’s Hale Navy color. By designing blue cabinetry for the kitchen and dining room, this open floor plan feels cohesive and elegant. Open shelves painted to match the cabinetry add an extra touch on either side of the back wall in the kitchen.
Visit our website to see more kitchen designs with navy colored cabinets!
#KountryKraft #CustomCabinetry #NavyColoredCabinets #KitchenDesignTrends #KitchenCabinetTrends
Sprucing up Kitchen Islands with Kountry Kraft Cabinetry
By / March 13, 2019 March 7, 2019 Custom Cabinets, custom kitchen cabinet drawers, Custom Kitchen Designers, Dream kitchen, handcraftsmanship, kitchen cabinet ideas, Kitchen Cabinets, kitchen storage, Luxury Kitchens, storage ideasKitchen 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
Reasons Clients Remodel their Kitchen
By / February 11, 2019 February 11, 2019 Cabinetry Paint, Custom Cabinets, custom kitchen cabinet drawers, Dream kitchen, handcraftsmanship, kitchen cabinet ideas, Kitchen Cabinets, kitchen storage, Luxury Kitchens, storage ideasEver wonder the reasons clients remodel their kitchen? It could be for a majority of reasons, but we narrowed it down to a few.
Top Reasons Clients Remodel
Design by Stonington Cabinetry & Designs Photography by Chris Veith
To Improve Function and Layout
When it comes to designing the layout of the kitchen you need to think about how many people will be cooking in the kitchen. If it will be one single chef, then you can create the traditional work triangle. This will ensure the kitchen has the best work flow and functionality. If you have more than one chef, you will need to create a larger work space which may mean moving one of the appliances out of the typical work triangle. This will create an easier passage way for more than one chef to move around. You will need to think about how many cooks will be prepping in the kitchen at a time to create the ultimate work space. When a kitchen does not function properly it can create a messy and unorganized area.
The kitchen is the main area where everyone gathers, and if your someone who always entertains then you may want a larger space. By adding a kitchen island into the mix, you will not only be adding functionality, but more seating space for guests as well. Kitchen islands can be used for so much more than storage and prep space.
Design by Kountry Kraft, Inc.
To Change the Color Scheme
After looking at the same kitchen every day, the color scheme can tend to feel old and dated. You may want to change the appliances, wall or cabinetry color. The benefit of cabinetry is having the ability to use more than one color in a single space. Two-toned cabinets are constantly trending and can be great for an updated color scheme. The kitchen featured above showcases Winter White and Gauntlet Gray cabinetry color, creating a perfect balance between the colors.
Design by Stonington Cabinetry & Designs Photography by Chris Veith
To Incorporate More Storage and Organization
Another reason clients remodel their kitchen is due to a lack of storage space. Custom cabinetry innovations continue to improve, as there are endless ways to customize them to fit your storage needs. Your kitchen may contain a small space that currently has no use, but with custom cabinetry, you can incorporate an accessory like a spice rack or pull out shelf.
Design by PK Surroundings Photography by Rob Karosis
To Update the Design Style
Wanting to upgrade your space could have you thinking about changing the entire design style of your kitchen. Maybe you’re tired of your farmhouse kitchen and would like to go more contemporary.
The beauty of remodeling a space is you can change the whole value or look of a home by simply upgrading one room or area. The kitchen is the heart of the home where many gather, which makes it important that you love your space. Whatever the reasons clients remodel may be, get started on creating your dream kitchen today!
Check out our website for storage, color and kitchen layout inspiration! Or check out our Houzz page for our recently completed designs.
#KountryKraft #ReasonsClientsRemodel #CustomCabinetry #KitchenRemodel
Sources: Harvey Remodeling, Masters Touch
Determining the Correct Kitchen Layout
By / January 9, 2019 January 2, 2019 Custom Kitchen Designers, Dream kitchen, handcraftsmanship, kitchen cabinet ideas, Kitchen Cabinets, kitchen storage, Luxury KitchensA 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 Layout
A U-shaped kitchen layout 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 of layout 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 layout 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 kitchen islands and dining areas. Characterized by a single wall of appliances and work space, this layout works best in a small kitchen to utilize space in an efficient way.
Whether you have a small or large kitchen, there is a layout 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 December 17, 2018 Custom Kitchen Designers, Dream kitchen, Environmentally Friendly, handcraftsmanship, Luxury KitchensChoosing 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
Custom Crafted Cabinets vs. Stock Cabinets
By / November 14, 2018 November 14, 2018 Cabinet dealer, Cabinetry Terms, Custom Cabinets, custom kitchen cabinet drawers, Dream kitchen, handcraftsmanship, kitchen cabinet ideas, Kitchen Cabinets, Luxury KitchensChoosing between custom crafted cabinets and stock cabinetry can be overwhelming. However, learning the pros and cons of both can help you make a decision about which better suits your lifestyle and design.
Custom Cabinets
- Custom Cabinets are built to last
- Each cabinet is handmade
- Ability to customize cabinetry down to the core
- Cabinets are built to fit any size, space and layout
- Custom Cabinets are typically more expensive
- Cabinets take longer to make due to customization and quality of design
Stock Cabinets
- Stock cabinets are the least expensive
- Standard shapes and sizes
- Stock sizes for stock kitchens
- Limited selection of styles and woods
- Pre-manufactured cabinets
- Quick delivery time
- Stock cabinets cannot be customized
- Made on an assembly line
Both options can create a captivating kitchen but it’s important to look at the overall quality and design. Keeping in mind the differences of custom and stock cabinets, here are a few examples of what custom cabinetry can look like in your kitchen.
Custom Crafted Cabinets by Kountry Kraft
Design by Stonington Cabinetry & Designs Photography by Chris Veith
This kitchen features our custom crafted cabinets in an Inset/No Bead cabinetry style with the TW10 Hybrid door design. The picture on the left showcases our dovetail cabinet boxes that provide strong and secure joints that can withstand heavy use. Kountry Kraft goes above and beyond to add dovetailing into our boxes and drawers to ensure long lasting craftsmanship. Dovetailing is not a feature available in stock cabinets, as it takes a skilled artisan to craft this joint style.
Design by PK Surroundings Photography by Rob Karosis
Kountry Kraft created glass kitchen cabinets featuring shelves that are in line with the floating shelves on the adjacent wall. The pantry cabinet showcases by-pass doors to provide easy accessibility to the contents inside. A custom crafted cabinet was decided to include a wine and beer fridge as well.
Design by Pam Whittemore of Drum Hill Designs, LLC
The custom cabinets featured above are unique in color, style and design. Part of our textural cabinetry line, they create a realistic wood grain surface that compliment stainless steel kitchen appliances. When choosing custom crafted cabinetry, you have to ability to choose from a wider variety of finishes and wood choices. Whereas, stock cabinets are more linear and don’t have as many choices available.
Kountry Kraft allows you to completely customize your cabinetry as well as offer a lifetime warranty on all our products. We want your kitchen cabinets to look the best and withstand the test of time. Not sure if custom cabinetry is right for you? Visit our Devon Showroom or find one of our experienced dealers near you!
#KountryKraft #CustomCabinetry #CustomCabinets #StockCabinets #StockVSCustom
Must-Haves for a Designer’s Dream Kitchen
By / April 26, 2018 April 26, 2018 Custom Cabinetry for Business, Custom Cabinets, custom kitchen cabinet drawers, Custom Kitchen Designers, Dream kitchen, handcraftsmanship, Kitchen Cabinets, kitchen storage, Luxury Kitchens, storage ideasA 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
Clever Cabinet Storage Ideas with Kountry Kraft Cabinetry
By / March 28, 2018 March 27, 2018 Custom Cabinets, custom kitchen cabinet drawers, handcraftsmanship, Kitchen Cabinets, kitchen storage, Luxury Kitchens, storage ideasKountry Kraft designers will take a look at your current kitchen layout and lifestyle and brainstorm cabinet storage ideas that will make your daily kitchen tasks easier. The designer’s goal is to make the most of your kitchen space by incorporating custom cabinet storage ideas throughout every nook and cranny. No more reaching in the back of your cupboards for one spice or a cooking bowl – custom storage solutions give every item in your kitchen a designated spot that is easy to access. You can set up your kitchen to be more efficient and easier to navigate. Your kitchen storage can be hidden or visible, depending upon your taste!
Cabinet Storage Ideas
- Plate holders
- Knife racks
- Drawer organizers
- Pull-out shelves
- Door shelves
- Specialty built shelves
- Slide-out baskets
- Integrated panels
Design by Dee Maher of Kessebohmer
Design by Dee Maher of Kessebohmer
This kitchen combines storage and lighting to the perfect degree. This kitchen is designed with a multitude of hidden storage features and proper lighting, making cleanup and entertaining very simple. Pull out spice racks are conveniently placed by the oven while drinks and snacks are intentionally placed outside of the cooking zone.
Designed by Samantha Petzrick Chinn, CKD of Petzrick Chinn Designs, LLC
This drawer features pegs which can be rearranged to organize dishes in neat stacks. This storage feature helps avoid broken and cracked dishes.
Design by Dee Maher of Kessebohmer
A pull-out shelf not only allows easy access, but also minimizes the noise associated with finding the right pot or pan.
Design by Stonington Cabinetry & Designs
This island includes Sub-Zero and Wolf 24-inch stainless steel refrigerator drawers. Refrigerator drawers are the perfect alternative for a kitchen that does not have much room for a large refrigerator. Refrigerator drawers are also convenient for putting children’s snacks and drinks at a lower level – away from the cooking area of the kitchen.
Browse through our social media pages for more inspiration on cabinet storage ideas. Contact us when you are ready to begin your remodeling project with Kountry Kraft!