Tag Archive: kitchen remodeling
The Problem with White Kitchen Cabinets
Posted on July 9, 2018White kitchens have been a popular choice for years. They’ve been called versatile, classic, timeless… But, some are skeptical. Will they be hard to maintain? Will I regret my decision? Before you commit, it’s important to get all of the facts. To help, we talked to Normandy Designer Brooke Voris about the disadvantages of white… more
Why You’ll Love Having a Second Fridge
Posted on January 2, 2018It’s always a good idea to add a second refrigerator for drinks, just ask Normandy Designer Leslie Lee. “A second under-counter refrigerator can benefit just about anybody,” said Leslie. “Even if you don’t entertain, it’s nice to take some pressure off your main fridge. You can take all of your drinks out, and open up… more
Defining Down Draft Ventilation
Posted on June 9, 2017While not as glamorous and choosing a backsplash, countertop or cabinetry, ventilation is an extremely important part of your kitchen remodel. Proper ventilation is critical because it helps remove smoke, steam and grease, keeping your kitchen clean and safe. Most of the time, ventilation is overhead, incorporated through a range hood. However, there is another… more
Kitchen Remodel for a Mid-Century Modern Home
Posted on May 23, 2017When completing a kitchen remodel, it is important to consider the current architecture of your home. Just ask Normandy Designer Lisa McManus, who completed this recent kitchen remodel on a mid-century modern home in Kildeer. “You always want your finish materials to keep in line with the space,” said Lisa. “In this home, the mid-century modern… more
Rule of Thumb for Stacked Kitchen Cabinets
Posted on April 25, 2017When completing a kitchen remodel, many spaces have high ceilings. While a beautiful feature, it is important to avoid selecting cabinetry that will weigh down the space. One idea that helps to provide a balanced look is a stacked cabinet. Here are some insights from Normandy Designer Laura Barber on this particular design decision. “A… more
Kitchen Ideas: Options for an Island End Cap
Posted on April 13, 2017Kitchen islands are an extremely popular request, most often desired for their prep space, seating and storage. However, while many concentrate on the island shape, material and color, there are other details to dress up its design. One such option is embellishing the ends. Here are some insights from Normandy Designer Karen Chanan on how… more
Kitchen Ceiling Considerations
Posted on March 22, 2017Ornate and lavish ceilings have always been a popular enhancement in churches, museums, theaters and libraries. However, now-a-days, beautiful ceilings are not only limited to large institutions. In fact, unique ceiling details are becoming extremely popular in kitchen remodels. If this design element interests you, here are some considerations from Normandy Designer Leslie Molloy, CKD…. more
Preserving a Vintage Feel in a Newly Remodeled Space
Posted on March 21, 2017While an older home offers plenty of character, oftentimes the layout is no longer practical for today’s modern family. The good news is that when the time comes to remodel, there are plenty of options that will allow homeowners to maintain the charm and integrity of the home, while adding useful updates that will improve… more
Classic Meets Playful for this Victorian Kitchen Remodel in Hinsdale
Posted on April 8, 2016The homeowners of this 1920’s, Victorian foursquare style home shared a love of classic architecture and antique finds, collected over many years in their travels throughout Europe and the U.S. So when it came time to remodel their kitchen, they knew that maintaining a unique and vintage style was important. But because this busy family… more
Kitchen Design Trends: Selecting a Honed Countertop Finish
Posted on November 4, 2015There are so many choices to consider when preparing for your kitchen remodel; it’s easy to overlook some of the seemingly minor details during planning. Selecting a finish for your countertop is one such easily overlooked detail, yet various options for texture and finish can create a unique and striking work surface for your kitchen. … more Kitchen Remodel Insights: Independent Spaces for your Cooktop and Oven
Posted on October 21, 2015When it comes to making the most of your kitchen remodel, it is all about tailoring the space to fit your needs. This includes the placement of your cooking surface and oven. In the past, a traditional range was an appliance that combined these two elements in the same space. In reality, separating these into… more
Kitchen Designs get a New Spin on the Lazy Susan
Posted on October 20, 2015The Lazy Susan has long been converting awkward corner cabinets into functional storage space. But in recent years, there has been an increase in the number of options available to maximize the storage potential of a wide variety of corner cabinets. Beyond the original pivoting shelves for your kitchen cabinets, you can now add trays… more
Induction Cooktops are on the Rise
Posted on October 8, 2015There are many choices when it comes to a stovetop, with the most recognizable options being gas and electric. However, another option that is growing in popularity is induction. “Induction cooktops have been available for decades and are actually very popular in Europe. However, they are just now gaining momentum here in The States,” said… more
Kitchen Design, with Message Center and Landing Zone on the Side
Posted on September 29, 2015For many families, the kitchen is not just about preparing and enjoying delicious meals. It also functions as a central hub for activities like completing homework, juggling calendars and sorting mail. However, more often than not, kitchens are missing an area to host important notes and papers– drastically increasing the odds of having to stick… more
Getting a Handle on Kitchen Faucets
Posted on July 7, 2015Kitchen faucets come in various styles, colors and options. One option to consider when choosing a kitchen faucet is whether you prefer a single handle or double handle faucet. One may argue that there is no difference between the two and that a faucet is a faucet. In actuality, there are significant differences between the… more
A New Generation of Appliance Garages
Posted on June 30, 2015When you think of appliance garages, do images of roll-top louvered doors come to mind? Despite their practicality, appliance garages fell out of fashion for a long time, largely because they instantly dated a kitchen and did very little to enhance the design aesthetic of the space. But fans of these handy spaces will be thrilled to… more
Stained and Painted Cabinets: Now in Color!
Posted on March 31, 2015Combining stained and painted cabinets in the same kitchen has been popular for over five years, but one of the more interesting developments in this trend is the addition of color to the cabinets. Up until recently, most of the painted finishes in these combo kitchens had been white, but color is gaining ground as… more
1950’s Ranch Becomes “Forever Home”
Posted on February 27, 2015After recently purchasing their single story La Grange home, these empty-nesters worked closely with Normandy Designer Leslie Lee to accomplish their remodeling goals. This 1950’s ranch style home was designed to reflect the ever-changing tastes and lifestyles of these homeowners and their ability to age comfortably in their forever home. The existing rooms were reconfigured and remodeled… more
Pops of Color Can Be Slight, With Decorative Pendant Lights
Posted on January 15, 2015Today, homeowners enjoy having multiple layers of lighting in order to have more flexibility within their space. Whether it is in the kitchen or in a casual setting, different moods and tasks call for different light fixtures. “Pendant lights are a functional targeted task light that can further enhance the style of the space,” says… more
Top Kitchen Trends for 2015
Posted on January 9, 2015The New Year has arrived, and with it comes the question predicting the top kitchen trends for 2015. With a host of classic favorites and new concepts for kitchen remodeling this year, our design team weighed in on what they expect to be popular for 2015. Here are elements they feel will be among the… more
The Evolution of Kitchen Cabinetry Solutions
Posted on January 8, 2015In today’s kitchens, homeowners are interested in incorporating features that add convenience and ease to their lifestyles. With cabinetry selections, you are provided with a variety of solutions for making life in the kitchen much more enjoyable and creating a space where everyday items are readily available. “With cabinetry, homeowners have the flexibility to create… more
The Formation of a Home Elevator Installation
Posted on December 16, 2014 These Northbrook residents, who have worked closely with Normandy Designer Vince Weber over the years for prior renovations, love their house and wanted to be sure they could stay in their home as long as possible as they aged. “One of the challenges they were concerned about for the… more
Turn Your Sample Door Into Home Décor
Posted on November 21, 2014During the remodeling process, one of the steps homeowners need to go through is selections, where they choose the design elements for their project. After completing their kitchen remodeling project with Normandy Designer Vince Weber, these homeowners decided to reinvent their cabinetry sample door, and create a unique piece for their newly remodeled kitchen. The… more
Normandy Glam Bar Display at Abt Electronics
Posted on November 20, 2014The glamorous entry bar, designed exquisitely by Normandy Designer Chris Ebert, is the first of the three new displays you encounter at Abt Electronics in Glenview. The elegant features, such as the custom linear etching on the intense black engineered stone or the whimsical chandelier that hangs above, capture immediate attention. The curved metal brackets that support the… more
Taking The Kitchen Island To The Next Level
Posted on September 4, 2014The kitchen island is one of the most popular elements that people request in a new kitchen remodel. Without a doubt, kitchen islands can provide additional work, storage, and dining space; but many people may not know that a few modifications to the typical kitchen island can make them serve even greater functions in the… more
Aspiring Design Apprentice
Posted on August 27, 2014At Normandy Remodeling, we’re always eager to find young design talent, but a recent visit from an apprentice designer proved how early the passion for design can be ignited. Normandy Designer Leslie Molloy, CKD has frequently shared her expertise and experience with new designers to the team, and has proven to be a great teacher… more
How To Pair Kitchen Cabinets and Hardware
Posted on August 22, 2014Cabinet hardware can seem like such a small detail, but it can have a surprisingly big impact on the overall look of your kitchen. Kitchen cabinetry hardware allows the homeowner to bring their personality to the space even more and can take the style of their kitchen to the next level. “When it comes to… more
The Best Time of Year to Remodel
Posted on July 16, 2014One of the most common questions we hear when people are planning their kitchen remodel is “When is the best time to remodel my kitchen?” While kitchen renovations happen year round, many people have found that planning for the construction to take place during the summer months can make living through the renovation more enjoyable… more
Porcelanosa Tile Now at The Normandy Showroom
Posted on July 1, 2014We are excited to announce that the Normandy Hinsdale Showroom now features the unique look of Porcelanosa tiles. These European tiles are particularly intriguing for fans of Contemporary design, and can create a striking design statement in any room. The Normandy Design Team is excited to add Porcelanosa to their design arsenal to further expand… more
Going Up? Backsplash Tile That Goes to the Ceiling
Posted on May 22, 2014The kitchen backsplash can be a standout design feature, from accent tiles that create a unique pattern above the stove or sink, to a full wall of sparkling glass tile. One of the challenges that commonly arise when using a tile backsplash, especially above the range, is determining how or whether to stop the tile… more
Incorporating A Beverage Center Into Your Kitchen
Posted on January 29, 2014Including a beverage center in the kitchen, or close to the kitchen, has been growing in popularity since the kitchen has become more of a gathering space. “A beverage center is definitely becoming a must-have for homeowners that entertain,” says Normandy Designer Leslie Lee. “It’s a great tool for spreading out the traffic flow, allowing… more
Top 2014 Kitchen Trends
Posted on January 10, 2014A new year brings new kitchen design favorites among homeowners and the design industry. While some carried over from 2013, there’s plenty of new elements that people are excited to incorporate into their kitchens in 2014. We asked our design team what they expect to be popular this year… Quality products; people want to remodel… more
5 Tips For Preparing Your House For A Kitchen Remodel
Posted on December 13, 2013A successful kitchen remodel is definitely more of a marathon than a sprint, but the transformation is worth it. Your dream kitchen is waiting at the finish line, and we’ve got Normandy Designer Leslie Molloy’s 5 tips to prepare for the construction phase. “I don’t think anyone can ever be 100% ready to have strangers… more
Low Divide Kitchen Sink Benefits
Posted on December 4, 2013“Low divide kitchen sinks, called “Smart Divide” sinks by Kohler, essentially give homeowners the best of both worlds in kitchen sinks,” says Normandy Designer Stephanie Bryant. “They’re designed for washing large pots, pans and skillets with long handles, but still offer the divide for the times you don’t need to fill the entire sink with… more
Kitchen Pot Filler Faucets
Posted on October 16, 2013If you’re one that does a good deal of cooking, then incorporating a pot filler into your kitchen design is something that you won’t regret. This convenient fixture will quickly become one that you won’t know how you ever lived without. Gone are the days of lugging a heavy pot filled with water from the sink… more
AAUW Home Tour Features Remodeled Normandy Home With Latest Design Trends
Posted on September 17, 2013Preparations for the 62nd Annual AAUW (American Association of University Women) Home Tour are coming together, and this year’s tour promises to be a highlight of the Hinsdale area fall calendar. The Home Tour will feature five spectacular homes, including a home with a recently remodeled kitchen and bathroom that incorporates some of the hottest trends… more![Home Improvements Trends In 2013 [Infographic]](https://www.normandyremodeling.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Trends-300x173.jpg)
Home Improvements Trends In 2013 [Infographic]
Posted on September 3, 2013Now, more than ever, homeowners are deciding to improve their homes rather than move. In fact, the percentage of homeowners who feel now is a good time to spend money on home improvement has doubled since 2009, according to a recent survey. Starting with kitchen trends all the way to yard trends, Normandy Remodeling has put… more
Celebrating a New Kitchen with Salmon and Friends
Posted on March 1, 2013One of Normandy Designer Chris Ebert’s recent clients insisted he join them for a dinner in their newly remodeled kitchen, and Chris was delighted to join. They had a fabulous dinner, and Chris had the rare pleasure to truly enjoy a space he helped create. “The key in this space was to warm it up… more
Waterfall Countertop Edges
Posted on February 27, 2013Incorporating a waterfall edge on your kitchen countertop is a great way to make it a focal point in a space. Typically, the edge will come from the floor all the way up to the traditional horizontal countertop, drawing from the floor up to the rest of the space. It’s a great way to break away… more
Ceramic vs. Porecelain Tile
Posted on February 20, 2013It can be difficult for the untrained eye to tell the difference between ceramic and porcelain tile, let alone what makes one better or worse than the other. All things considered, if the two tiles are pushed to their absolute limits, porcelain will perform better than ceramic every time. Porcelain is heavier than ceramic because it has less… more
How To Choose The Right Kitchen Backsplash
Posted on February 13, 2013Normandy Designer Leslie Molloy, CKD shares in the first short video below the purpose of backsplash, and how to choose a backsplash material to fit your style of cooking. In the second video, she delves deeper into examples of materials and different backsplash trends that she’s seeing.
Kitchen Cabinet Mullion Styles
Posted on January 16, 2013A mullion, in regard to glass cabinetry, is an element that divides the glass. It can be done in different styles and patterns, although is typically used with kitchens that follow the traditional style. It’s an added level of decoration that homeowners utilize as a way to tie everything in a kitchen together, giving the… more
Top 13 Kitchen Trends of 2013
Posted on January 3, 2013We surveyed the Normandy Design Team and got their expert opinions on what trends they’ve seen in 2012, and what they’re expecting to see a lot more of in 2013. And here’s what they shared with us: 1. Bursts of color throughout the kitchen; it’s a retro style that’s great for making a statement. 2. Light driftwood cabinetry using oak and… more
How to Pick a Kitchen Countertop
Posted on November 14, 2012Today kitchen countertops can be a design element in their own right with the wide variety of colors and materials available to homeowners; so it can be a challenge to narrow the choices down and figure out what’s right for your kitchen and lifestyle. According to Normandy Designer, Laura Barber, AKBD, the first thing to do is… more
Normandy Showroom Remodel is Complete
Posted on November 12, 2012Although it’s been complete for a couple months, business has been booming and we’re finally finding time to showcase our beautiful new displays! The bathroom display features cool colors and follows a modern style. The bathroom was designed with a modest budget in mind, showing that stunning results can be achieved with smart design and detailed planning. … more
How to Pick a Kitchen Range Hood
Posted on October 30, 2012The hood for your range can sometimes be a forgotten design element, when in fact, if the selection is done poorly can negatively affect the final look and functionality of your entire kitchen. Award-winning Normandy Designer, Kathryn O’Donovan, has put together a a few tips on how to pick out a hood that is perfectly… more
“Jennifer Runner is Awesome!”
Posted on October 24, 2012It’s always nice to know that when people work with us on a remodeling project, they tend to love our staff as much as their new space. One of our talented designers, Jennifer Runner, recently received another letter from a Naperville client praising her expertise and design skills. It was so sweet we couldn’t help but share it! “Jennifer Runner… more
How to Blend Different Kitchen Themes
Posted on October 16, 2012When homeowners start a remodeling project, they frequently look for design ideas and inspiration at every opportunity. But what do you do when you fall in love with two very different styles? Normandy Designer Ann Stockard recently completed a project where that was the case, and she was able to blend the styles flawlessly, creating a… more
Apron Front Sinks an Increasing Trend in Kitchen Design
Posted on September 17, 2012Apron front sinks used to be a design element of the past, but in recent years they have been on an up-sweep in the design world. “They’ve really gained a lot of momentum,” says Normandy Remodeling Designer Leslie Lawrence, “I’m especially seeing an increase of apron front sinks in white kitchens.” People are using apron front sinks… more
Newly Remodeled Kitchen Reflects Home’s Vintage Roots
Posted on August 2, 2012This Hinsdale kitchen remodel found its inspiration in the home’s Dutch Colonial style vintage roots. When working through their wish list, the homeowners wanted their new kitchen to feel like it was always there, maintaining a timeless, vintage look but with 21st century amenities. As three time Normandy clients, they’ve done their fair share of remodeling and knew… more
The Remodeler’s Remodel: The Final Reveal
Posted on May 1, 2012It’s taken some time, but now that the remodel is complete, Normandy Designer Leslie Lee‘s home has taken a huge leap into the 21st century. With her kitchen remodel receiving the biggest overhaul, the rest of the house received some needed updates as well, such as the powder room and a new front door. Leslie is overjoyed with… more
The Remodel is Really Cookin’!
Posted on April 6, 2012The appliances are in, meaning the end is in sight for this beautiful kitchen remodel. The Abt appliances selected by Normandy Designer Leslie Lee finally make the space feel like a kitchen, and she can’t wait to get started cooking and entertaining guests – and this kitchen is perfect for both! To catch up on the remodel, start… more
A Touch of Backsplash
Posted on April 3, 2012The backsplash tile is now going in to Normandy Designer Leslie Lee‘s new and improved kitchen. The tile brings the room together just as she had hoped, and I think you’ll agree that it adds a lovely dimension to her newly remodeled kitchen. You can follow the entire kitchen renovation from the beginning by clicking here. The backsplash… more
Countertops are Here
Posted on March 23, 2012The end is drawing near as Normandy Designer Leslie Lee shares the progress of her kitchen renovation, step by step as she experiences it. This steady renovation progress is due in large part to our amazing project superintendent, Rick Ruh. Rick has kept a close eye on the schedule and all the details for Leslie’s… more
Cabinets Bring the Kitchen to Life
Posted on March 19, 2012A kitchen remodel can be so exciting, and if you aren’t living through yours right now then we have your fix. Normandy Designer Leslie Lee has been blogging about her kitchen renovation since it began and today we get to see one of the biggest design elements be placed…the kitchen cabinets. Gary, Sophie, and I… more
A Window to the World
Posted on March 15, 2012What goes into a kitchen remodel? Normandy Designer Leslie Lee is sharing her personal kitchen renovation to give us a glimpse of what you may experience as your kitchen is remodeled. You can start reading her story from the beginning, just click here. “Ahh… A sigh of relief in the Lee household. The hideous garden… more
Countertop Selection Time
Posted on March 2, 2012Take a journey through a kitchen remodel as it happens. Normandy Designer Leslie Lee is renovating her personal kitchen and is sharing the renovation experience with us in real time. You can start at the beginning of Leslie’s kitchen remodeling project by clicking here, or you can jump her second, third or fourth posts. “A… more
A Kitchen with a View
Posted on February 29, 2012Normandy Designer Leslie Lee is chronicling her personal kitchen transformation through regular blog and photo updates. Today we have the 4th update from Leslie, but you can read the entire story of her kitchen in her first, second and third posts. “It just looks like a giant hole in the wall now, but soon it… more
Let there be light
Posted on February 23, 2012Normandy Designer Leslie Lee is sharing her journey as her very own kitchen undergoes renovation. The third installment of this series, you can click here to find the first and second posts to see Leslie’s kitchen transformation from the beginning. “It doesn’t look like much right now – but I am so psyched they framed… more
Out with the old
Posted on February 21, 2012Normandy Designer Leslie Lee shares a designer’s perspective as her own home undergoes a much needed renovation. This is Leslie’s second posting in this series, you can also click here to read the initial project introduction. “Well, demo is in full swing and now we know why the floor has been so squeaky all these years. … more
