How to plan your

DREAM KITCHEN

Plumbing & Heating • Bath & Kitchen

TABLE OF CONTENTS
Turn your dream kitchen into reality by following this handy planning guide!
2......Showroom Experience
Learn what to expect during your showroom visit.
3......Trade Professionals
Select ted trade professionals to achieve the desired outcome.
4......Floor Plans & Space Design
Make the most of your kitchen layout with these space-planning tips.
5......Style & Inspiration
Pick out the right interior design style for your kitchen.

6......Special Considerations
The basics of universal design, aging in place, and going green.

7......Sinks
Learn about various sink types, materials, and features.

8......Faucets
Find .

9......Garbage Disposers & Water Dispensers

Garbage disposers & water dispensers are convenient kitchen addictions..

10....Water Purification
Pure water is good-tasting, odorless water. Learn how to purify your water.

11.....Cabinetry
The right cabinets make or break your kitchen’s appearance and functionality.

12....Cabinet Hardware
Jazz up your kitchen with beautiful cabinet hardware.

13....Cabinet Storage Accessories

Store your kitchen items conveniently.

14....Countertops
Choose a strong, attractive countertop for your kitchen.

15.....Appliances

16.....Lighting
Pick out the best kitchen lighting for your needs.

17.....Flooring & Walls

18....Determine Your Needs

Assess your kitchen needs by answering a few basic questions.

19....Drawing Your Floor Plan

20...Detail Specifications
windows.

21.....Product Checklist
A handy checklist to help you select the right kitchen products.

22....Where to Buy
You’ve picked out your kitchen items; now learn where to buy them!

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SHOWROOM EXPERIENCE
From faucet to cabinet: envision your new kitchen at a kitchen showroom.

I
t’s time to turn your dream kitchen into reality.
Visit a designer kitchen showroom, and let your
imagination run wild with the possibilities. View and
touch faucets, cabinets, and sinks of various shapes and
styles. Visualize your kitchen project coming to life in
the showroom.

Need some help narrowing down your options? Schedule

anapppointment with a professional showroom consultant
and you’ll be well on your way to a gorgeous kitchen
that suits your budget. Now that’s what we call a
showroom experience!

Why Visit a Kitchen Showroom?

If a picture is worth a thousand words, then an in-person
experience is worth a million. At a kitchen showroom, you Typical Consultation Times
can touch different sink materials. You can open cabinet
The length of a showroom consultation depends on the size
drawers to test how they glide. You can walk around a room
and scope of your project. In order to provide you with a
full of faucets to compare and contrast different models.
comprehensive assessment of your kitchen choices,
There’s nothing quite like being able to touch each texture
showroom consultants generally require one to three hours
of consultation time.

What to Expect During Your When you schedule your appointment, you’ll be asked some
Consultation basic project questions to help determine an appropriate
Your showroom consultant acts as your personal guru in the amount of time to suit your needs:
kitchen product selection process. During your consultation,
she or he will discuss your personal tastes, style, and budget » What type of kitchen layout is involved?
to coordinate the perfect kitchen for your family. » How many rooms are included in your project?
» Is your project new construction, or are you remodeling
an existing space?
and the type of look you’d like to achieve. Your showroom » Are you interested in selecting a sink, faucet, or
consultant will look over your plans and blueprints and help complete kitchen?
you determine the dimensions of the products you need. She
or he will then take you on a guided tour of the showroom, If you are selecting one or two items, a walk-in appointment
may be all that you need to select the perfect product. If
space. you are completely renovating your kitchen, starting from
scratch or need three or more items, we would recommend
scheduling a full-length consultation with a showroom
Preparing for Your Consultation consultant.
The most successful showroom consultations involve a small
amount of prep work. Here are some tips for getting the
most out of your showroom consultation:
SHOWROOM SUGGESTIONS
» Print and complete a project planning guide
Don’t be afraid to ask about testing products in the
» Bring along home plans, drawings, project photos,
showroom--it’s the best way to determine which
room measurements
» Know your project’s budget or allowance
and encourage this practice, so go for it!
» Prepare a list of questions to ask
» Bring any inspirational material: color samples,
magazines with ideas, project portfolio
» Share your online portfolios, such as Pinterest or Houzz

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TRADE PROFESSIONALS
Build a solid team of kitchen professionals to achieve your ideal kitchen.

S
o you’ve been daydreaming about overhauling your
kitchen for months now—gutting your cramped
Building/Remodeling Contractor
cabinets, removing your scratched countertops, and A building/remodeling contractor oversees the construction
replacing your old-fashioned sink and faucet. You’d prefer an of a newly built or remodeled space. They manage your
updated look--perhaps a country-modern or eclectic kitchen. project, coordinating the various kitchen professionals to
ensure they seamlessly work together.
You may have a vision of that perfect new kitchen, but need
someone to translate your ideas into building Consider hiring a builder/remodeler if you are completely
guidelines, sketches, and blueprints. The right kitchen renovating an existing room or adding a new room to
professionals will help you explore the possibilities, turning your house.
your dream bath into a beautiful reality.
Plumbing Contractor
Showroom Consultant Plumbing contractors are licensed to professionally install,
Whether you’re renovating your kitchen or just replacing
relocate your water supply connections if needed.

with you to select the right products for your kitchen. A plumbing contractor handles a wide breadth of projects,

Showroom consultants have an in-depth knowledge of replacing a leaky faucet.

kitchen products and styles. They’ll advise you on what kind
of products best suit the look you’re going for and if you
need any additional components.
Electrical Contractor
A licensed electrical contractor installs, maintains and
repairs electrical systems. They can install your lighting in
Designer your kitchen, set up the wiring for your appliances, and
C repair any structural issues with your electrical system.
professional training to create a beautiful room that suits its
purpose. They oversee the details of harmonious space An electrical contractor may be part of the construction team
if you’re building or remodeling your house, or they could

client to learn how the room is used and what the needs are
of the homeowners, using this information to re-organize
the space.

If you’re overhauling your kitchen or creating a new

addition to the house, you may want to consider hiring a
HOW TO SELECT A TRADE PRO
kitchen designer. VERIFY THEIR LICENSE.
Look at your State License Board to make sure you’re
Architect working with licensed trade
Similarly to designers, architects work with you to help make professionals.
the most of your space. The difference between a designer
INTERVIEW THEM THOROUGHLY.
and an architect is that the designer is primarily concerned
Don’t let price be your only reference point for your
selection. Consider also the material and service
architect focuses on the structure. Thus, an architect may
modify the walls, ceilings, and other structural components.
CHECK REFERENCES.
If you’re adding a room to your house or modifying Ask for references from other homeowners and
your room’s structure, you may want to consult with follow up on them.
an architect regarding structural designs and
construction drawings.

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FLOOR PLANS & SPACE DESIGN
A thoughtfully-planned layout maximizes kitchen functionality.

Floor Plans
Most kitchens fall into one of the following types: galley, THE WORK TRIANGLE
L-shaped, U-shaped, and double work triangle. When
planning out your kitchen layout, think about the shape and
size of the space. Also think about limiting plumbing lines to
The work triangle consists of three
one wall for budgeting purposes.
ideal points between the cook top,
the sink, and the refrigerator. Some

GALLEY triangle:
A galley kitchen,
also referred to as a • Each triangle leg should be at least
“straight” kitchen, is a 4 ft and less than 9 ft.
kitchen in which the
counters are arranged • There should be no major traffic
in two facing lines. flow through the triangle.
This saves space while
still maintaining the • The sum of all three sides of the
work triangle. triangle should be between 13 ft
and 26 ft.

• A tall obstacle should not come

between any two points of the
L-SHAPED triangle.
In this type of
layout, the counter • Obstacles should not intersect any
is arranged in an “L” leg of the triangle by more than
shaped format. This 12 in.
allows for more work
space, less through

division of multiple
work sites.

U-SHAPED DOUBLE WORK

A U-shaped kitchen TRIANGLE
features a U-shaped For a larger
counter that takes kitchen, consider
up three walls. This adding a second
allows for more work work triangle to
your layout. This
and the inclusion of a allows multiple
kitchen island. people to cook
without bumping
elbows.

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STYLE & INSPIRATION
Pick an interior design style that you’ll be happy looking at every day.

T
here are thousands of possibilities for your space MODERN
design. If you’ve ever browsed Houzz or Pinterest’s Simple, clean,
bathroom or kitchen sections, you’ve probably noticed minimalist, open
their sizable collections of creative room ideas. Selecting an and airy, wood and
interior design style will help you simplify your options. leather, bold accents,
straight lines, natural
elements.

TRADITIONAL
Timelessness, tranquil
sophistication, curved
details, intricate
patterns, neutral
walls, hardwood
ECLECTIC
rich-colored Collaborative of
accessories, marble. various design styles
or eras, harmonious,

carefully orchestrated,
mix-and-match.

CONTEMPORARY
Organic, unique, sleek
lines, sustainability,
natural materials,
minimalism, water
and energy RUSTIC
conservation, bold Natural beauty,
accents, open space. copper, ski lodge-feel,
wood design

organic, lived-in, com-

fortable.

TRANSITIONAL
Tranquil, neutral
colors with bold
accents, elegant
minimalism,
comfortable textures,
simple and solid. OTHER STYLES
If you’d like to venture beyond the styles on this page,
check out www.Houzz.com. There, you can browse
through kitchen styles such as Farmhouse,
Tropical, and Beach Style.

Can’t decide on a style? Visit websites such as

www.HGTV.com for fun, interactive style quizzes!

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SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS
Customize your kitchen for your unique needs and preferences.

W
hen it comes to building or remodeling a

the right one for your household. You may be

planning to retire in your home, install water-conserving

Read on to learn how you can personalize your kitchen

according to your needs.

Universal Design
Universal Design (U.D.) is a design concept that
accommodates people of varying ages, abilities and
mobility. A universally-designed product can be used by

WITH TRAUMATIC CHANGE NEEDS

This group is composed of individuals who have experienced
Whether you are an active adult, a young parent, or a person
facing physical challenges, a home designed with changing
needs in mind can be comfortably enjoyed by all of your
family, neighbors, and friends.
» Single-handle faucets
» Wider entrances
Aging in Place » U-shaped pull handles for easy gripping
As the baby boomer population grows, so does the » Adjustable cabinets
desire to stay in one’s home after retirement. Depending » Adequate under-sink space
» Rounded countertop corners
available for those who wish to age in place.

Green Products
WITHOUT URGENT NEEDS
This group is composed of individuals who are not currently In
experiencing problems with health or mobility and prefer is an easy way to use 30 percent less household water. Not
the appearance/function of Universal Design. U.D. only can green kitchen products help sustain our planet for
future generations, but they also help you save on your water
and sewer bills. Green kitchen products include:
» Easy-access cabinets
» Wider entrances »
» U-shaped pull handles for easy gripping » Motion-sensor faucets cause you to use less water.
»
the environment.
WITH PROGRESSIVE CONDITION-BASED NEEDS
This group is composed of individuals who have chronic or
progressive conditions. They are aware of their needs, but do Pure Water
Wa

reasons: 1) the presence of waterborne bacteria, viruses, and

» Single-handle faucets pathogens that can pose a health hazard and 2) poor
» Wider entrances aesthetic quality of water (taste, odor, color). Point-of-use
» U-shaped pull handles for easy gripping (P.O.U.) systems are popular for optimal water freshness,
» Adjustable cabinets taste and clarity at a lower cost than bottled water.
•

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SINKS
A stylish sink can make a bold statement in your kitchen.

Y
our kitchen sink endures a lot -- dirty dishes, heavy
scrubbing, and soap buildup. That’s why you should
consider quality, material, size, and mounting
types when picking out a new sink. Kitchen brands offer
a variety of sink styles, from quaint farmhouse models to
contemporary stainless steel looks. Let our step-by-step
guide help you through the kitchen sink selection process.

Determine the Number of Sink Holes

Replacing a kitchen sink? You’ll need to make sure that your

sinks can accommodate single-handle faucets, double-handle

faucets, and faucet/accessory combinations depending on the
amount of holes in the sink.

Select Your Sink Materials

ENAMELED-CAST-IRON
The beauty of porcelain, the durability of cast-iron — the
perfect choice for a sturdy-yet-stylish sink. This sink material
is easy to clean and resistant to scratches.
Bowl depths range from 5 inches to 12 inches. The deeper
STAINLESS STEEL the bowl, the smaller the splash zone. However, you want to
Stainless steel sinks are popular in contemporary and make sure that your bowls are comfortable for you and your
modern kitchens. Their clean, polished look and family to use.
scratch-resilience make them a popular choice for household
chefs.
Select Your Sink Mount Type
FIRECLAY
UNDERMOUNT
add functional beauty to your kitchen. Fireclay sinks are Undermount sinks are mounted beneath the kitchen
resistant to scratches and acid, making this type of sink a counter. The basin and rim of an undermount sink are
durable choice. positioned underneath the counter.

SOLID SURFACE DROP-IN

A solid surface sink is created from manmade materials Drop-ins, also known as self-rimming sinks, are “dropped”
that mimic marble, stone, and other natural elements. Solid into your kitchen countertop. With a drop-in sink, the rim
is positioned atop the countertop, whereas the basin hangs
and textures. below.

Select the Bowl APRON-FRONT

Also known as a “farmhouse” sink, the apron-front sink is
Large single bowls give you more room for food preparation
a roomy addition to a contemporary or traditional kitchen.
using pots, pans, and other large cooking tools.
This type of sink has a deep basin and an apronlike front.

Two-bowl sinks are handy for washing and rinsing dishes.

BAR & FOOD PREP
These come in two main types: double-equal and large-small.
If you frequently entertain guests, consider a bar sink for
Double-equal sinks are typically used for washing and drying
easier food preparation and cleanup. Their compact size also
dishes, whereas large-small sinks are used for food
makes bar sinks a good choice for a small kitchen.
preparation.

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FAUCETS
A beautiful faucet adds flair and function to any kitchen.

U to your kitchen. Whether you’re remodeling your

kitchen or replacing a broken faucet, you’re sure to

in today’s market.

Not sure where to start? Follow our step-by-step kitchen

faucet selection guide below!

Count the Number of Holes in Your

Kitchen Sink
When replacing your kitchen faucet, it’s important to make

Kitchen sinks typically have 1 hole, 3 holes, or 4 holes (most

common). The type of faucet you can install depends on the
number of holes.

1-HOLE SINK OPTIONS

» Single-handle faucet
» Single-handle faucet with deckplate

3-HOLE SINK OPTIONS

» Single-handle faucet with 2 accessories
Pick Your Faucet Style and Finish
» Single-handle faucet with deckplate
TRADITIONAL
» Double-handle faucet
Ornate handles and curvy spouts add elegance to any
traditional kitchen. High-arc spouts are often found in this
4-HOLE SINK OPTIONS
type of kitchen, though low-arc spouts with a bell-shaped
» Single-handle faucet with 3 accessories
» Single-handle faucet with deckplate with 1 accessory
oil-rubbed bronze, brushed gold, and polished brass.
» Double-handle faucet with 1 accessory

CONTEMPORARY
Select a Spout Type This style is made up of minimalist lines and right angles. An
angular, no-frills spout combined with a straight-lined lever
PULLOUT/PULLDOWN SPRAY
handle perfectly complements a contemporary kitchen.
of cleaning tasks.

LOW-ARC SPOUTS TRANSITIONAL

A low-arc kitchen spout is 10.5” or less. If you’re looking for A transitional faucet blends the rounded shapes of
a spout with a smaller splash zone, choose this spout type. transitional design with the clean lines of contemporary
design—e.g., a low-arc faucet with a bell-shaped spout head
HIGH-ARC SPOUTS or a clean-lined, high-arc faucet.
A high-arc spout is 10.75” or more. Its height makes it easy
MODERN

POTFILLERS right-angled, high-arc faucet with a single-handle lever adds

sleek beauty to a modern kitchen.

For a second sink, similar-style faucets are also available at a

smaller scale.

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GARBAGE DISPOSERS & WATER DISPENSERS
Reduce the amount of kitchen waste. Get hot or cold water instantly!

S the perfect car—you’ll want a quiet motor, strong

horsepower, and reliable safety features. Luckily,
similarly to cars, garbage disposers come with a variety of
options that suit different household needs and budgets.
Read on to discover the perfect garbage disposer for your
kitchen.

Types of Garbage Disposers

Different garbage disposers suit different budgets and
household needs. They’re typically divided into 3 levels:
economy, standard, premium.

ECONOMY
Economy garbage disposers grind food waste at 1/3 or 1/2
horse power. They are relatively quiet, but not as quiet as
standard or premium garbage disposers.

STANDARD
Standard garbage disposers grind food waste at 3/4
horsepower, providing faster and more powerful grinding.
They can grind hard materials, such as bones and fruit pits.
They are also quieter than economy garbage disposers.

PREMIUM
Premium garbage disposers grind food waste at 1
horsepower, providing the fasted and most powerful
Water Dispensers
the quietest of the 3 levels. Ever wish you could instantly make hot coffee or tea without
waiting for the kettle to boil? Or pour yourself a cold glass of
water in the summer? An instant hot/cool water dispenser
Benefits of Garbage Disposers allows you quick access to perfectly heated or chilled water.

INCREASED HYGIENE
WATER DISPENSER ADVANTAGES
Less garbage means less unsanitary leftovers in your kitchen,
reducing the spread of bacteria. A garbage can means
your kitchen, including:
unsavory odors, plus the possibility of a pet or child getting
into the trash and making a mess.
Saves Time
Morning routines become much faster when you can
LESS LANDFILL WASTE instantly dispense hot water to make tea or coffee, loosen up
Americans generate 250 million tons of garbage per year, a peanut butter jar lid, or wash a baby bottle.

Saves Money
Garbage disposers are also compatible with septic systems. Reduce your water bills--instead of waiting for your tap
water to run to the appropriate temperature, you can
CLEANER AIR AND ENVIRONMENT instantly dispense water at your chosen temperature.

methane, a potent greenhouse gas. Garbage disposers Saves the Planet

actually allow for discarded leftovers to be sent to Instead of buying cold plastic water bottles, you’ll have
wastewater treatment facilities, catching the methane gas instantly cold water, preserving our natural resources.
generated from discarded food and turning it into energy.

/9
WATER PURIFICATION
Purify your water for the freshest-tasting, odor-free tap water.

B
itter-tasting water from the tap isn’t just unpleasant to
drink—it can be an indicator of water quality problems
with your water source. According to the Water
Quality Association, 67% of Americans are concerned about
the quality of their household water supply.

Common water quality issues include rotten egg odor, stains,

cloudy water, chlorine odor, hard water, clogged pipes, and
poor-tasting water. Learn more about common water quality
problems and solutions.

Point-of-Use and Point-of-Entry

For fresh, clean tasting water, there are two types of water

A point-of-use (POU ) system is installed on an

individual source of water, such as a faucet or shower head.
These systems capture any impuirities that aren’t caught by a
POE system.

A point-of-entry (POE)
entire household water supply at the point of entry into your

Water Quality Problems and Solutions

Water Treatment Systems PROBLEM: HARD WATER
Hard water is caused by an excess of calcium and
WATER SOFTENER (POE) magnesium in the water supply. This type of water can
Water softeners remove calcium and magnesium, resulting in be harsh on your skin and hair. A water softener
less buildup and stains. During the water softening process, removes calcium and magnesium ions, enabling for
calcium and magnesium ions are replaced by sodium better moisturization of your skin and hair.
(sometimes potassium) ions.
Solution: Water Softener
IRON/SULFUR FILTER (POE) & (POU)
Iron and sulfur cause stains and clogged pipes and PROBLEM: ROTTEN EGG ODOR
appliances–not to mention unpleasant-smelling and -tasting If your water smells like a leftover omelet, that may
indicate heavy amounts of sulfur in your water supply.
effectively remove iron and sulfur.

R. O. SYSTEM (REVERSE OSMOSIS) (POU) Solution: Iron/Sulfur Filter

R.O. systems are installed under the sink with a
separate drinking water faucet. Many bottled waters are tap PROBLEM: POOR-TASTING WATER
water treated with an R.O. system. For a fraction of the cost, If the unpleasant-tasting water is coming from a sink,

water right at your kitchen sink.

may be what you need. For the purest water, consider an
UNDER SINK FILTERS AND WATER DISPENSERS (POU) R.O. System—bottled water is typically tap water treated
These long-lasting systems are installed under the sink and with an R.O. System.

dispensers reduce chlorine, foul odors and tastes, lead, Solution: Under Sink Filter and Water Dispenser, Iron/
bacteria, rust, and sediment. Sulfur Filter, and R. O. System

/10
CABINETRY
Smart storage solutions begin with a beautiful new kitchen cabinet.

T
he right cabinet enhances your kitchen and keeps
your house organized. Choose from a variety of

to achieve your ideal look.

Cabinet Types
STOCK CABINETS

and may be ready-made by the time you order.

SEMI-CUSTOM CABINETS
These are available in a wider range of options than a stock
cabinet, but aren’t customizable to the extent of a Custom
Cabinet.

CUSTOM CABINETS
Cabinet Finishes
Cabinet

Wood Species of look you’re going for--contemporary, modern, or

Some popular wood species choices for cabinets include:

» Glazed--a base stain is applied, followed by a highlight

MAPLE
glaze that adds depth to the look.
Strong, close-grained, and off-white
» Painted--your cabinet can be painted virtually any color.
in color, maple cabinets add a classic
» Burnished--random distressing and over-sanding create a
timelessness to your kitchen.
burnished effect.
» Vintage--random distressing, over-sanding, and a
OAK pigmented stain create a vintage look.
Oak comes in a wide variety of colors,
such as white, yellow, and Framed and Frameless
red-brown. Cabinets come in framed or frameless models. Wondering
what the frame differences are and which model is right for
CHERRY your kitchen? Read on to discover the right cabinet type for
For a sophisticated, multi-colored you!
wood species, choose cherry wood.
Cherry wood darkens with age. FRAMED CABINETS
With a framed construction, a face frame is attached to the
front of the cabinet. Framed cabinets are durable and
BIRCH
Birch is a close-grained hardwood homeowners. Keep in mind, however, that they may have
that comes in straight, wavy, and less storage space than their frameless cousins.
curly patterns.
FRAMELESS
Frameless cabinets are also referred to as “European” or
LAMINATE “Full-Access” cabinets. A frameless cabinet does not have a
Laminate is easy to clean and durable. face frame, creating more storage room. They also offer more
This material is used on cabinet accessibility, so this cabinet model is a great solution for
drawer and door surfaces. homeowners who desire a universally accessible kitchen.

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CABINET HARDWARE
Glam up your kitchen cabinets with cabinet hardware!

W
hether you’re anticipating a full kitchen
remodel or just need a quick change in
environment, replacing your kitchen cabinet
hardware is a great way to spice up your kitchen.

Before you begin the selection process, it’s important to

understand common cabinet hardware terminology that
you’ll hear your designer, architect, showroom consultant, or
builder/remodeler refer to. This will make it easier for you to
be able to communicate your needs with them.

Cabinet Hardware Types

The following are the most popular cabinet hardware types:

KNOBS
Knobs come in many shapes and sizes, including round,
square, rectangular, oval, and bird cage. This type of cabinet
hardware typically gives off a vintage vibe, making it perfect
for use in traditional kitchens.

PULLS Cabinet Hardware Finishes

This type of cabinet hardware features a metallic rod or ring.
Th
It is easier to grip than is the knob, and thus should be
considered in households where a family member or guest
CHROME
faces motor ability challenges. Pulls are further divided into
four sub-categories:

Bar SATIN NICKEL

Straight, sleek, and clean lined, this type of pull handle
accentuates the modern kitchen. kitchens alike.

Drop Handles OIL-RUBBED BRONZE

Standard shower doors are available in different size and
styles for bathtubs and shower units. Standard shower doors
come with either sliding or pivot hinge types. BRUSHED COPPER
A soft copper color that gives an antique appearance.
Ring Pulls
Evoke old-word glamour with this type of handle, which CUSTOMIZED OPTIONS
features a curved line that “drops” from its baseplate/s. This Did you know that many cabinet hardware
type of handle may feature elegantly-adorned details.
on a one-of-a-kind kitchen remodeling project, you can
Cup/Bin Pulls let your creative mind wander with nearly limitless cabinet
This type of pull has a neutral half-dome shape, making it hardware possibilities. Custom options include:

traditional and contemporary kitchens. • Custom-plated Cabinet Door Pulls

• Custom Lengths
Appliance Pulls • Specialty Finishes
Match your cabinets to your kitchen appliances with • Custom Shapes
appliance pulls! They can be placed on refrigerators, • Color-matching Technologies
freezers, and other appliances.

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CABINET STORAGE ACCESSORIES
Conveniently stow away your kitchen items in a safe space!

R
ecipes strewn across the counters. Pots and pans
threatening to take a nose-dive whenever you open

half-empty boxes, mismanaged spices, and sticky residue

on the shelves. It seems that no matter what you do, your
kitchen clutter keeps growing each day—and you’re fed up
with it.

Fortunately, cleaning and organizing your kitchen can be

virtually effortless with the right kitchen storage accessory
options.

Kitchen Cabinet Storage Options

Once you’ve cleaned up your kitchen, it’s time to think
about organizing.. Here’s how you can make the most of
your kitchen space via cabinet storage:

TIERED SPICE TRAY

A tiered spice tray insert works well for the average spice
collection. Simply place the insert in a kitchen drawer,

FLOATING SHELVES
KITCHEN RACKS
Slip clunky items like bottles and plates into racks for variety of colors and styles, these narrow shelves stand out
rattle-free storage. Plate racks and wine racks can be from your wall without taking up much space. Adorn them
integrated into your cabinet, allowing you to display your with vases, canisters, bowls, and candles—decorative
collections in style. odds-and-ends work well with these shelves.

Wire racks create storage space out of thin air. Insert them MULTI-STORAGE PANTRY
into your cabinet doors to store bulky items, such as cereal Keep your pantry orderly with a multi-storage pantry.
boxes, fruits and veggies, and cleaning supplies. Multiple swing-out shelves in your cabinet make it easy to
store canned, bottled and dry goods by category.
WASTEBASKET DRAWER
Wastebasket drawers are a handy solution to prevent stinky If you need additional pantry space, consider a pantry-pull
smells and trash tip-overs. Safely store away your trash in a out. This 3-shelf drawer glides out for easy access to spices
top-mounted wastebasket drawer or wire pull-out. and small goods.

Looking to save time tossing recyclables? Select a two-bin or LAZY SUSANS & SWING-OUT SHELVES
four-bin recycler pull-out for easier presorting. Utilize corner space with corner cabinet Lazy Susans and
swing-out shelves. Both kitchen storage accessories enable
KITCHEN RAIL SYSTEM you to effortlessly grab pots, pans, and food items. They can
Maximize your kitchen area by placing a rail system on the even be layered on top of one another for maximum area
wall. A kitchen rail system is an organizational tool made usage.
up of a metallic rail and a series of hooks. These hooks may
hold wire-frame storage containers, utensils, pots, pans and DEEP DRAWERS
towels. Store pots and pans in deep drawers to ensure they’ll never
again be lost in the depths of your cabinet. Make sure to
The result? A chic and practical way to keep everyday items measure your pots and pans to select the right drawer height
close at hand. and width.

/13
COUNTERTOPS
Choose a countertop that improves your kitchen’s look and function.

P
olish off a stylish kitchen with a beautiful,
durable countertop. Whether you prefer a tiled Spanish
Colonial look or a marbled Neo-classical appearance,
there are a variety of countertop materials from which to
choose. You’ll also want to consider function in addition to
form--rounded countertop corners, for example, may be
a safer choice for a household with children than square
corners would be.

Countertop Materials
Countertops are the focal point of your kitchen’s style. The
good news: your countertop material options are nearly
limitless. We’ve covered the most popular choices for
countertop materials below:

GRANITE
No two granite countertops are the same, thanks to the
varying patterns and colors found in the stone’s natural state.
Granite is scratch- and heat-resistant, and does not require
as much maintenance as do other materials. However, the
material is heavy, so make sure your cabinets can adequately
support its weight! Countertop Edges
After picking out the material, it’s time to think about your
QUARTZ countertop edges. Rounded edges may be better for a family
Engineers have perfected the quartz countertop, enhancing with young children, while square edges could be an asset
its durablity and beautiful stone appearance. If you want an to household members with poor vision. The picture below
easy-to-clean countertop with a natural look, quartz is your represents a few of your countertop edge options that you
best bet. can discuss with your showroom consultant.

MARBLE
Timeless and elegant, marble countertops are a beautiful
addition to any traditional kitchen. Its heat-resistance makes
it a good choice for households who do a lot of baking.
Marble is prone to stains, so it is recommended that you
limit this material to one station.

SOLID SURFACE
This is one of the easiest-to-clean materials, perfect for the
household that does a lot of cooking. Crafted from acrylic
and polyester, solid surfacing is nonporous. This countertop
material comes in a variety of color options, so this may be
the right choice if you want to go bold with your kitchen.

LAMINATE
Laminate countertops are easy to maintain and resistant to
stains, heat, and impact. They also come in a variety of colors
and designs. While laminate countertops are frequently seen

traditional and contemporary kitchens.

/14
APPLIANCES
High-quality appliances turn any kitchen into a chef’s paradise.

P aesthetically pleasing kitchen appliances. From a

modern set of retro red appliances to a contemporary
series of stainless steel appliances, you can mix-and-match

Choosing Kitchen Appliances

When it comes to selecting the right kitchen appliances,
you’ll want to consider the characteristics most important to

prefer a high-end kitchen that would make Food Network

chefs green with envy, or would you prefer a simple kitchen
for homecooked meals? Here’s what to look for when
selecting each appliance:

COOKTOPS
Cooktops come in gas, electric, and induction models.
While many homeowners may prefer gas cooktops for their
high performance, keep in mind that gas cooktops are less

high-performing. Induction cooktops are gaining in

high performance.

RANGES
WALL OVENS
Ranges allow you to combine your cooktop and oven into
Wall ovens make it easier to insert and remove food items,
one unit. They are popular because they save space, working
eliminating the need to bend over and stoop down to use
particularly well in a galley-style kitchen. Determine your
them as one would with an oven range. They also allow you
cooking, pricing, and style needs to choose the right range.
to save on undercounter space, allowing you the freedom to
install more drawers and other appliances instead. Wall
REFRIGERATORS ovens can come with time-saving extra features, such as
Refrigerators can be built into cabinets or positioned in the
bigger windows, improved heat distribution, and
room as a standalone appliance (full-depth). Full-depth
full-extension racks.
refrigerators allow for more storage space, but a bulkier
appearance. Be sure to consider food storage space, freezer

DISHWASHERS ADDITIONAL KITCHEN APPLIANCES

The three most common types of dishwashers are
built-in, compact, and drawer. A built-in model is the The appliances listed above are the most common kitchen
standard dishwasher, which uses a two-rack layout and is 24 appliances, but there are many more types of kitchen
inches in width. A compact dishwasher is 18 inches wide, appliances designed to make your life easier. Some other
allowing you to save undercounter kitchen space. Drawer kitchen appliances include:
dishwashers are smaller and require less energy and water.
• Microwaves
HOODS • Icemakers
There are four types of vent hoods: under-cabinets that • Beverage Coolers
recirculate air back into the kitchen, wall-mounted • Warming Drawers
chimneys that are wall-mounted and resemble a chimney, • Garbage Compactors
ceiling-mounted chimney that are sleek in appearance, and • Grills
custom builds.
/15
LIGHTING
Proper lighting helps you complete tasks such as cooking and cleaning.

W
hen it comes to lighting, don’t underestimate the
importance of the right kitchen lighting in
helping you cook complicated dishes and
germproof your kitchen counters. The perfect kitchen
lighting also sets the right mood for social activities, such as
a homecooked brunch with the ladies or a wine night with
your book club.

There are three main types of kitchen lighting: ambient

lighting, task lighting, and accent lighting.

Ambient Lighting
Ambient lighting is the lighting you use for general kitchen
activities. It should spread light evenly throughout the room
at a comfortable level. This type of lighting includes

lights, and lanterns.

CHANDELIERS
Appreciated for their beauty and elegance, chandeliers may
be ornate or minimalistic. Light up a traditional-style kitchen
with a curved, detailed chandelier or illuminate a modern or
contemporary kitchen with a simple pendant.

CEILING- AND WALL-MOUNTED FIXTURES

If you’d like to add height to your ceiling, a ceiling- or Task Lighting
Ta
illuminates the room without taking up the additional space
preparing and cooking food, washing dishes, doing
a chandelier would use.
homework on the kitchen table, dusting your countertop,
or polishing your glassware. Task lighting should be more
RECESSED LIGHTS
illuminating than ambient lighting to prevent eye strain, but
This style of lighting is also good for creating additional
not so bright that it hurts your eyes. If you have a glossy
ceiling height in a low-ceiling room. These lights are recessed
countertop, for example, take into consideration the
underneath the ceiling or wall, providing a soft glow without
glare of an undercabinet light for certain tasks.
added bulkiness. Some kitchens may combine recessed
lighting with other lighting types so you can adjust the
Task lighting may take the form of recessed lighting,
dimness.

lamps.
TRACK LIGHTS
Track lights are hung along a monorail. This type of lighting
is great for modern or contemporary kitchens, adding an “art Accent Lighting
gallery” feel. If you consider your kitchen to be a work of art, Accent lighting creates a focal point for the kitchen. Use
accent lighting to highlight your prized petunia houseplants,
right lighting style for you. your contemporary art gallery, your children’s clay
sculptures, or your collection of rocks shaped like Elvis
LANTERNS Presley. Your accent lighting should be at least three times
While frequently hung outside of the home, kitchen lanterns as powerful as your ambient lighting in order to successfully
are increasing in popularity due to their charming Old World draw attention to the desired focal point.
style. If you’re looking for a unique way to illuminate the
home and dress up a traditional interior, lanterns are the Accent lighting may be provided by recessed lighting, track
way to go! lighting, or wall-mounted lighting.

/16
FLOORING & WALLS
Set the right ambience with coordinated kitchen flooring and walls.

M
ake your kitchen cabinets, countertops, and

combination. Even the most bland kitchen can be

transformed into the hub of the home with a simple splash

options.

Flooring
TILE
Durable, customizable, and waterproof, it’s not hard to see

materials. Not only is it available in a variety of shapes and

sizes, it’s also easy to clean. Choose between glossy or matte

NATURAL STONE
Whether you prefer a classic or contemporary look, natural
CERAMIC TILE
Easy to clean and maintain, ceramic tile is available in
various colors, patterns, and shapes. Ceramic tile is typically
comes in a variety of colors, patterns, and textures for a
applied to one part of the wall, whether it be your kitchen
nearly limitless set of options for your kitchen. This cool,
backsplash or above your upper cabinets.
durable material feels great under tired feet,

VINYL WALLPAPER
Wallpaper dresses up a kitchen and adds charm. It can be
applied to part of a wall, or ir can cover the entire wall.
You’ll have multiple choices, from country gingham to
nearly limitless options, including tile, sheet, and plank
form.

WOOD WOOD PANELING

Wood paneling is perfect for a rustic, country-style
kitchen. It also can help you recreate the “ski lodge”
environment. Certain types of paneling may need to be
sealed with a water-resistant coating to prevent warping and
mold growth.
LINOLEUM
Not to be confused with vinyl, linoleum is an all-natural

you’re a fan of the modern look, like the idea of patterned

COLOR CHOICES
colors, consider how you’d like to feel in your
linoleom for its numerous style options.

Walls Red: Energetic, stimulating, adrenaline-inducing

Blue: Calming, relaxing, lower blood pressure
PAINT Green: Fresh, comforting, relaxing, natural
Get in touch with your inner artist with this inexpensive Neutral: Classic, serene, comforting
wall covering method. You can paint your walls a solid color Purple: Elegant, royal, dramatic, luxurious
or explore different patterns. If you’re going this route, be Yellow: Happy, energetic, inviting
sure to use a water-resistant primer before you start painting. Orange: Enthusiastic, energetic, healthy

/17
DETERMINE YOUR NEEDS
Maximize your kitchen’s function by determining your family’s needs.
What are the heights of each household cook?
appliances it’s important that you thoughtfully assess your _____________________________________________
kitchen needs. _____________________________________________

What Are Your Kitchen Needs? Would you prefer the eating and dining areas to
be together or separate?
What do you like about your current kitchen? _____________________________________________
_____________________________________________ _____________________________________________
_____________________________________________
Do you frequently entertain guests?
What do you dislike about your current kitchen?
_____________________________________________
_____________________________________________
_____________________________________________
_____________________________________________
What kinds of water-conserving, energy-saving
What would you have in your dream kitchen?
_____________________________________________
_____________________________________________
_____________________________________________
_____________________________________________

What color schemes do you like?

What activities happen in your kitchen?
_____________________________________________
_____________________________________________
_____________________________________________
_____________________________________________
What kind of kitchen style/s do you like? _____________________________________________
Traditional? Contemporary? Modern?
_____________________________________________ How many people do you need to seat; and would
_____________________________________________ you prefer to seat them at an island or peninsula?
_____________________________________________
Does any household member have special needs? _____________________________________________
_____________________________________________
_____________________________________________ What are your storage concerns?
_____________________________________________
How would you like to make your kitchen _____________________________________________
_____________________________________________
_____________________________________________
_____________________________________________ Which is more important to you: the aesthetics of
the kitchen, or the function of the kitchen?
What type of mood are you looking to evoke? _____________________________________________
_____________________________________________ _____________________________________________
_____________________________________________
Are there children in your household? If so, what
What are your storage needs? are their ages?
_____________________________________________ _____________________________________________
_____________________________________________ _____________________________________________

How often does more than one person use your Do you have any other kitchen concerns/needs?
kitchen at the same time? _____________________________________________
_____________________________________________ _____________________________________________
_____________________________________________
/18
DRAWING YOUR FLOOR PLAN
Use the grid below to draw your floor plan.
To help us design your project as accurately as possible, please record all dimensions and locations of doors, windows, and

/19
DETAIL SPECIFICATIONS
Determine your project detail specifications for accuracy.

Appliance Brand Model Appl. WxHxD Cutout WxHxD Panel WxHxD

Cooktop/
Rangetop
Range

Hood

Microwave

Dishwasher

Compactor

Refrigerator

Wall Oven

Beverage Cooler

Ice Maker

Warming Drawer

Sink
Other

Window and Door Dimensions Room Information

Measure the dimensions of all the windows and doors in Measure the dimensions
the kitchen in inches. Include window trim for window and below for your existing
door measurements A and B. cabinetry in your kitchen.
Record the measurements
in inches.
A=door width, B=door height
C=top of door trim to ceiling

Use the numbers in the table below to label the locations of

A Finished Floor to Ceiling Height: ______________________

A B C D
B Finished Floor to Top of Wall Cabinet: _________________
1
C
2
3 D Wall Cabinet Height: ________________________________

4 E Lower Cabinet Height: _______________________________

/20
PRODUCT CHECKLIST
Use this form to select the right products for your kitchen.
Name: _____________________________________________________________________ Water Purification:
 Point-of-Use  Point-of-Entry
Address: ___________________________________________________________________
 Iron/Sulfur  R.O. System
Phone: ____________________________________________________________________ Filter  Water Softener
 Carbon Filter
E-mail: ____________________________________________________________________

Project Start Date: __________________________________________________________ Garbage Disposers:

 Economy  Standard
General Contractor: _________________________________________________________  Premium

Plumbing Contractor: _______________________________________________________

Appliances:
Room Name: _______________________________________________________________  Cooktop  Rangetop
 Range  Hood
Budget (range): _____________________________________________________________
 Beverage  Warming
Cooler Drawer
KITCHEN CHECKLIST  Dishwasher  Compactor
 Refrigerator  Wall Oven
Cabinets: Countertops:  Ice maker  Microwave
Wood Species: _____________________ Color: ____________________________
Door Style: ________________________
 Solid Surface  Marble Range Hoods:
Cabinet Frame Style:
 Quartz  Backsplash  Undercabinet  Chimney Hood
 Framed  Frameless
 Laminate  Side Splash  Island Hood  Custom Inserts
 Semi-framelesss
 Wood  Other  Downdraft
Finish: ____________________________
Other: ____________________________  Granite
Lighting:
Cabinet Hardware: Faucets:  Task  Ambient
Finish: ____________________________ Finish: ____________________________  Accent
Size: _____________________________
 Bridge  Commercial
Style:
 High-arc  Pot Filler Flooring:
 Knob  Drop Handle
 Single-hole  Pullout or  Hardwood  Laminate
 Bar Pull  Ring Pull
 Wall Mount Pulldown  Bamboo  Cork
 Custom  Other
 Vinyl  Linoleum
 Tile  Natural Stone
Storage Accessories: Sink:
 Lazy Susan  Wire Rack Material: _________________________
 Deep Drawer  Pull-out Tray Color: ____________________________ Walls:
 Floating Shelf  Spice Rack  Paint  Wood
 Drop-in  Farmhouse
 Quiet-close  Wastebasket  Wallpaper  Stone
 Undermount  Bar
Drawer Drawer  Brick  Concrete
 Corner
 Sliding Shelf  Pegged Drawer
 Rail System  Pot/Pan Drawer Notes:
 Tiered Rack  Drawer Divider
 Wall-Top Hinge  Wall Stem Glass
Cabinet Holder
 Base Table  Plate Rack
/21
WHERE TO BUY
Visit our designer bath & kitchen showrooms.

Y
ou’ve read through this kitchen planning guide, and

to life. Let the expert showroom consultants at Crawford

Supply Group of Companies guide you through the selection
process.

Smart Solutions for Your Kitchen

Your kitchen is the hub of your home. Turn your kitchen
into a customized sanctuary just for your family—a
luxurious cooking experience; a cozy, rustic getaway; a
simple, modern retreat. Whatever your taste and style,
Crawford Supply Group of Companies has the products and
design services available to update your kitchen to your The Bath & Kitchen Blog
liking. Need more information? Whether you’re replacing a bathtub
or remodeling your kitchen, you can achieve your desired
We offer a comprehensive assortment of designer kitchen outcome by following the expert advice we’ve gathered
below.
large selection of quality options with help from our
kitchen experts. Now, that’s what we call a smart solution! Looking for bath and kitchen secrets from the industry’s top
professionals? Crawford Supply Group’s blog, The Bath &
CRAWFORD SUPPLY Kitchen Blog, updates with the hottest bath & kitchen news
GROUP OF COMPANIES INCLUDES: and hints. Learn about design trends, news, events,
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Visit our blog at blog.crawfordsupply.com!

Popular blog topics include:

Michigan • Unearthing the Young Professional’s Perfect Kitchen

www.buildersplumbingsupply.com • How to Glam Up Your Kitchen Cabinet Hardware
• Spring Right into Bath & Kitchen Remodeling Season!
• How to Plan a Spacious Kitchen without Having a Lot
of Space
• How to Solve Common Water Quality Problems
• The Secret to Selecting a Stunning Kitchen Sink
Illinois • 7 Ways to Freshen Up Your Kitchen for the Holidays
www.crawfordsupply.com

THE CRAWFORD ADVANTAGE

Crawford Supply Group of Companies provides high-qual-
ity kitchen products and personalized
customer service to cater to your needs. Let our
Pennsylvania experienced showroom consultants help you
www.plumbersequipmentcompany.com coordinate the kitchen of your dreams through our prod-
uct selection consultations.

/22
 www.buildersplumbingsupply.com

2464 Industrial Hwy 700 S. Hosmer 3305 Centennial

Ann Arbor, MI 48104 Lansing, MI 48912 Midland, MI 48642
734-668-8200 517-485-7219 989-496-3113

www.crawfordsupply.com

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847-967-0550 773-281-7010 815-477-7400

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724-850-9402 412-821-7311 724-325-8400 x2122 412-341-1650