Kitchens Over The Last 100 Years

Posted on November 2, 2018 by Eric Johansson

There was a time when kitchens weren’t the special spot in the house. It didn’t really have a social atmosphere for people to congregate to. They were purely used for servants and women of the house to prep food and that was it. Usually small unless it was the rich and then it was big because of all the servants who needed to prepare meals for everyone. Things have changed dramatically over the last 100 years. Kitchens are now a place for the whole family to relax, work and socialize as well as cook. Modern kitchens spill out into the living room, garden area or patio to emphasize on entertaining family and friends. Below, we take a glance at how far and how much change has the everyday kitchen evolved into what it is today.

Before 1940

This was the era before kitchens were more than just a prepping area. Kitchens mostly consisted of wood. Kitchens started to take a turn in 1920 when the electric dishwasher was built but it wasn’t easy. Magazines would have to encourage husbands that he’d have a happier life if he had a happier wife. Women didn’t have the upper hand in buying things for the household so to free themselves from the curse of dish-washing, advertising companies had to convince the husband that it was a good investment. Some women reported washing 200+ pieces a day back then.

1940’s-1950’s

This was the era of appliances. Waffles irons, toasters, and percolators were some of the first to take popularity. Kitchens started to become more decorated with built-ins and pops of color especially in appliances like the fridge and stove. It was the age of fancy for the kitchen trend through the 60’s. Minimizing work was very important to the housewife and easy cleaning was a must so metal cabinets, stainless steel counters, and linoleum floors started to become the trend. The washing machine and wringer made its debut during this time and back then laundry rooms were non-existent so it was set up in the kitchen. Refrigerators stepped up their game and offered glass shelves, indoor compartments, crisper drawers, and freezers which made daily grocery shopping a thing of the past. The electric oven also became a household need instead of the original wood, coal or gas stoves. During this time is when kitchens started to become more inviting to friends and family trying to include the cook with the rest of the household.

1960’s-1970’s

This was the decade for colors! This is where the harvest gold and avocado green were born. Kitchens started to become more opened up to include the eating area which created the work triangle and the U-shaped kitchen. It still gave kitchens the feeling of intimacy without completely enclosing the walls but also providing an open feel to it. Creating extra space for cooking and storage as well. Storage was huge in the 60’s and 70’s because of all the gadgets that were being invented so design ideas that helped with storage were a growing factor. Kitchen pegboards were one design that seemed to take off. It added a convenient way to keep pans within arms reach while adding an unexpected decorative element to space. Another boundary-breaking design that hit kitchens in this era was busy prints, especially in wallpaper. A few devices that were popular in the kitchen were microwaves, which changed how cooking was done from here on out. Fridges even stepped up their game and added more features like water and ice dispensers from the door. The phone also became a household item and usually was found in the kitchen.

1980’s-1990’s

This is the era we are all running away from now. Oak cabinets, frilly window treatments and color palettes that are now heavy-handed. Bright colors and busy patterns started to fade from kitchen decor and neutrals started to make its way into the kitchen. Pastels and bright hues were still popular but it tended to be more in the accents. Natural light, open shelving, and islands were trendy now that the kitchen started to become a place for socializing. The 80’s brought the home computer and a new fad was eat-in kitchens. After the 90’s, Linoleum floors and Formica counters faded into tile floors and granite counters to make kitchens look more timeless.

Modern Day

One style that is sticking around since the 80’s and 90 ’s is natural light, open shelving, and islands. 2000 kitchens differ greatly from 2018 kitchens and will also continue to change by 2030 but the design goal with kitchens of the 21st century is to reach an aesthetically pleasing and functional kitchen that is timeless. Kitchens today are all about the amenities and unique storage options. While modern minimalist designs are popular so is the old-fashioned farmhouse look with a modern touch. Kitchens have become the center of the home bringing families closer together. Appliances have become smarter than the average joe, from remote access to automated encyclopedia by voice activation, the wave of the future has changed the way we do things. With both parents working full-time careers, the kitchen has become less for prepping and more for gathering.

Kitchens have definitely changed a lot over the last 100 years and will continue to change in the next 100 years to come. One thing to remember when renovating your kitchen is choosing a contractor to listen to your wants or needs and communicating with you every step of the way. Need a free estimate give us a call and we will make your dream kitchen come to life.

Feel free to Contact Us here at Retro Pro Kitchen and Bath and we would be happy to answer any questions you may have!

Bathrooms over the last 100 years

Posted on October 31, 2018 by Eric Johansson

Introduction

The idea of a room in a home dedicated to personal hygiene and grooming is, strictly speaking, a recent one. For the most part, houses built much before the turn of the century didn’t have bathrooms. So, in the span of about 100 years, the modern bathroom has evolved from a novelty into an almost-universal residential fixture. But there has always been a need for disposing of human waste, as well as a need for providing facilities for bathing and grooming. How those human needs evolved into the modern bathroom is a story about both technology and culture.

1920’s

In the 20’s was the start of using color in bathrooms. Bathrooms not only became functional but they became fashionable. Kohler was the first company to introduce colored fixtures of toilets, sinks, and tubs. They came out with 6 colors: Horizon Blue, Old Ivory, Spring Green, Lavender, Autumn Brown, and West Point Gray. This was a major innovation since before then every fixture was white and no one ever thought to change that until now. In the 20’s a lot of the sinks were attached to the wall without a vanity or pedestal sinks.

Other features typical of 1920’s bathrooms include:

Vitreous china pedestal sinks or mounted sinks with thin chrome legs
Formica countertops and sparse counter space
Wood cabinet storage spaces
Chrome fixtures with rectangular shapes and rounded edges
Rectangular bathtubs with low or no showers
Big, boxy wood vanities
Vinyl-topped stools
Built-in accessory holders such as toothbrush holders, magazine racks, and soap racks

1950’s

In the 50’s thru the 60’s pink and mint green were the most popular colors in the bathroom and not just as accents or paint color but the entire bathroom including the tub, sinks and tiling. Pink, the color of optimism was a reflection of the postwar America. After Mamie Eisenhower wore a silk ballroom gown that had 2,000 rhinestones on it to the inaugural ball in 1953 it became a must for bathroom styles all over the country. Bathroom decorations stemmed from summertime garden colors. They would even put built-in planters in the windows on the inside to create the garden feel.

Vinyl flooring was popular in the 60’s but went out of fashion in the 80’s because of asbestos. Now it has become popular again because they are making it asbestos-free and due to its affordability, durability and easy maintenance.

1970’s

The color scheme only got more extravagant in the 70’s and carpet on the floors became very popular which nowadays is a big turn off and is only thought of as uncleanliness. Nothing was ordinary in the 1970’s bathroom. Shag carpet with rugs and toilet covers plus brightly patterned wallpaper and window coverings. It was more like an invitation to a birthday party than a bathroom break. Tub enclosures also became a popular thing with decals of patterns on it of course.

Wood paneling was popular in the 70’s because it was inexpensive and easy to install and then went out of style because it was too common. It has become popular again but painting it white is more common in the 21st century.

Today

It’s all about a luxurious spa-like feel in bathrooms today. The white, clean and clutter-free look that was once seen in bathrooms before 1920’s is back but now it is popular to have state of the art technology and be a place to get away from the everyday stresses of the 21st century. Tubs aren’t as popular as they were in the 1990’s but they are still seen in them once in awhile if done right. Homeowners who don’t use tubs are opting out and saving the space for large walk-in showers that have double shower heads or a bench to keep their fast-paced life still peaceful and spa-like.

In the 80’s glass block walls were very common in walk-in showers or used for windows to let natural light in but not be able to see into the bathroom from outside.
In the 90’s is when large master suites started to become popular in homes. They featured an en-suite and walk-in closets. This hasn’t gone anywhere since its popularity except master plus en suites are becoming more popular on the main floor away from the other bedrooms for more privacy.

Feel free to Contact Us here at Retro Pro Kitchen and Bath and we would be happy to answer any questions you may have!

The Scoop On White Kitchens

Posted on October 25, 2018October 25, 2018 by Eric Johansson

White kitchens have definitely stayed a trend for homeowners over the last 20 years and is continuing to rise for the next few years to come. All white kitchens tend to have a timeless quality and are almost able to camouflage their age. Since it is such a universal color, white is appropriate for any style of decor, whether it’s traditional Victorian, modern contemporary, retro and vintage, mid-century, or industrial. The versatility is another reason why white kitchens are so popular, it tends to be appealing to most people due to being both basic and bold, vivid and dramatic and not too flashy. They could also be considered a template for additional personalization if you choose, such as adding colored accents or material to make the space your own.

While white kitchens aren’t going anywhere, expect to see a rise in color, especially other neutrals like gray and blue. Warm wood tones are becoming a popular replacement for painted cabinets. The two-toned look started catching on in 2017, in which cabinet colors were mixed and matched in the kitchen. For example, the bottom cabinets might be a darker color, such as gray, and the upper cabinets then all in white. Having a color that is bolder for the kitchen island contrasts the rest of the kitchen and makes a statement. This is why white has many benefits because then you can play with color in unique ways. White is such a basic color, that you can go along way with design and it also makes the space feel light, airy and clean. White can also make your small space look bigger than what it really is.

In kitchen remodeling, cabinets receive the highest allocation. They take up a lot of real-estate and are costly to manufacture and install. White cabinets avoid the decision of having to select a wood finish that dates a home quicker than is needed. You can also rest easy knowing that your kitchen can easily be updated with accessories and appliances while keeping the cabinets longer.

Versatility

Whether your kitchen has an upscale or shabby chic vibe, white cabinets are workable. This adaptability can be appealing to potential home buyers. While they may not see eye to eye with you on your kitchen decor, they know they won’t have to completely gut the kitchen when they move in. White plays well with nearly every other shade, making it convenient to coordinate countertops, appliances and lights fixtures, and backsplashes.

Warmth

Even though white is the name of the game, one mustn’t forget that the kitchen is part of the house and therefore in its design, it must project warmth and preserve an inviting appearance. In order to prevent a cold and sterile feeling, it is recommended to select a number of elements that will disrupt the monotony of the cold white and that will provide splashes of color and warmth to the space. Herbs of an intense green color, placed in a decorative vase on a white work surface would do the trick wonderfully. Adding paintings with splashes of color will give your kitchen an inviting look without cluttering the countertops. Even adding colored appliances might warm up the white monotony of the space.

Natural Light

High electricity prices and environmental awareness contribute greatly to energy-saving LED lamps. This trend is welcomed but full of potential home-lighting catastrophes in the form of white fluorescent bulbs. In order to prevent an office atmosphere in your kitchen, choose lighting with a warm color, not fluorescent. Warm natural light completes and emphasizes white surfaces without creating a cold feeling. If you are able to, try to plan your kitchen ahead of time so that during the day, those sitting in your kitchen can enjoy natural light entering through large windows which are essential for the ventilation of an active kitchen, among other things.

Wood

In order to generate interest and break the uniform appearance of the space, you can incorporate segments of wood (butcher) into your work surface. The segment can be a part of the work surface that is integrated creatively such as in a zigzag formation or a portable element such as a large cutting board that can turn into a hosting platform in an instant. You can always integrate into the general kitchen design cabinets made of wood and create a complex design combining materials.

Color

A color’s character is often determined by the material on which it “lies”. When designing a white kitchen, it is important to remember that for different materials, different finishes influence the manner in which the white reacts to the material, and what amount of light will reflect from it. A glossy finish, with a reflective characteristic, gives depth to the white color that will also be affected, among other things, by the colors of the elements around the space that reflect off the white. On the contrary, a matte white finish, which absorbs the light, allows, relative to the glossy, for the white color to appear as a single unified piece.

How to add color to your white kitchen

Get furniture with color to add a pop to your white space
Add wood to your white space to help add contrast
Add a dark color to window treatments will add a pop to the white space and you can change them out when you want to update it.
Be Bold! Give your island a pop of color.
Put a splash of color in the backsplash to break up the white concept.
Add a dark flooring or dark countertops to a white kitchen
Get stone white countertops with excessive dark veining to add texture to your white space without taking away from the white concept.
Make your oven hood the centerpiece of your white kitchen by making it extraordinary. Think copper or a wood material.
Embrace black stainless steel appliances or even colored.
Paint the walls using color to make your white kitchen pop with warmth.

Feel free to Contact Us here at Retro Pro Kitchen and Bath and we would be happy to answer any questions you may have!

The “NEW” Vinyl Flooring

Posted on July 27, 2018 by Eric Johansson

The History of Vinyl Flooring

Although vinyl is the most widespread type of industrial flooring, it has just recently gained popularity in the residential flooring market. The material has been around since 1926, so it has had time to evolve. All of its industrial-grade characteristics (water, scuff, stain, and scratch resistance) are why more and more people choose it over hardwood and laminate flooring. With an increasing number of manufacturers focusing more on the luxury vinyl tiles that imitate the texture and colors of natural materials such as wood and stone, this type of flooring is bound to dominate the residential market soon. Vinyl is durable and practical but does have some flaws.

Pros

Variety of Styles and Colors- Due to the customization-ability of the manufacturing process the design styles and colors are endless. The tiles are made by turning colored PVC chips into solid sheets of different thickness, which allows for a pretty wide variety of colors and patterns that can’t be achieved with other flooring types. There is even now the option of an extra layer of polyurethane, which can be made to resemble texture and feel like stone, wood, and even clay tiles. This technology makes it very hard to tell the printed vinyl tiles from the real floors.
Different Types of Flooring- Tiles tend to be the most popular residential flooring but there are other shapes and types of vinyl. It can be either rolled out in sheets or cut into tiles or planks. Sheets of vinyl are usually 6 or 12 feet wide, kept in rolls and sold by length. Using vinyl sheets makes the surface look consistent and gives it a clean look. Vinyl tiles have a standard size of 12×12 inches, but can be made bigger or smaller to fit your needs. It can also come in the form of planks. This can vary in length but are usually 4 ½ or 6 inches wide. All these different types can significantly minimize the amount of waste that’s left after installing.
Softness- Vinyl floors do have a layer of foam added during the manufacturing process that’s used to cushion the sound more. It makes for a surface that’s much softer than wood or laminate.
Easy Maintenance- Floor maintenance with vinyl floors requires very little effort. They are water and stain resistant so they are perfect for households with kids and pets. When installed properly, vinyl planks are perfectly flat with no cracks or dents, which makes sweeping and vacuuming much easier.
Easy Installation- This is one of the biggest benefits of vinyl plank floors is that they are fast and easy to install. Most are made to click and lock into one another and depending on their backing can be installed without adhesive. When installing, the surface rarely needs to be perfectly flat and allows for minor inconsistencies.
Extreme Durability- A lot of the vinyl flooring manufacturers offer 25-year or lifetime warranty to residential areas. They are produced in a way that makes them water, stain, scratch and scuff resistant, which makes for a very durable floor that takes a lot of time to wear out.

Cons

VOC Emissions-This stands for volatile organic compounds which are organic chemicals that evaporate at room temperature and release dangerous emissions indoors. These compounds aren’t acutely toxic, but a prolonged exposure may lead to health problems such as asthma, eye and skin irritations, etc. Since 2010, many manufacturers reduced the amount of PVC used in the production of vinyl tiles, but low-end products often come with a high concentration of VOC.
Prone to Gouging- Although this is a problem mainly associated with vinyl sheets, vinyl planks can also suffer from this kind of damage. Planks have a much harder surface than sheets of vinyl, but the polyurethane top layer that luxury vinyl tiles have is still easy to dent. Thanks to shock-absorbing ability, a glass is more likely not to break when it hits the vinyl floor but a dropped knife will leave a pretty visible, irreparable cut.
Requires Skill and Experience- The interlocking mechanism found with vinyl planks might make them seem like a dream DIY product, but installing vinyl planks requires a little more experience than beginner’s level. Preparing the surface, applying a flattening mass, cutting and adjusting the shape of the plank are all things for which you might want to hire a qualified contractor to install.
Marginal Effect on Resale Value- Vinyl planks are the least expensive flooring option but can be the biggest expense when renovating because of the prep work that goes into it, especially with the rollout vinyl. So, investing in vinyl plank floor won’t increase the value of the property because most home buyers prefer premium floors such as wood or stone.

Types of Vinyl Flooring

Self Adhesive: This type of flooring has an adhesive film on the back that you remove. This is a cheaper version of vinyl flooring but still popular due to their appearance and ease of installation.

Glue-down: Depending on the type of vinyl, those using glue-down methods will typically see more PVC and multiple layers due to there adhesive natural needed. There is a special adhesive that is needed that is waterproof.

Interlocking: This type of vinyl flooring is a locking technique used with a hammer to connect them together. No other extra adhesives are needed, it’s like a large jigsaw puzzle.

Loose Lay: This is a newer technique that creates a barrier to eliminate the possibility of moisture above the flooring. With this installation method, you can clean up any spills you have without worrying about the subfloor becoming wet. Without any adhesive, if there is a spill that has been there awhile then you can pull them up instantly. You don’t need gap expanders, and these tiles won’t contract or expand because of their clippings to the wall.

How to Find a High-Quality Vinyl Plank Floor

When you’re looking for vinyl planks on the price spectrum tend to look equally good, and their real-life characteristics can’t be easily distinguishable. There are a few things you should look for in vinyl planks that can help you determine its quality, and avoid buying an overpriced or a substandard product. The most important trait of vinyl planks is their thickness, which also determines their price. So mid to high range planks would be 5-6.5mm thick, while the cheapest is usually 1.5 or 2mm thick.

Another thing to look for in a vinyl plank is a thick wear layer. A thick wear layer means more polyurethane, which is a lot harder than PVC and offers better protection from scratching and gouging.

Luxury vinyl planks are more expensive than the plain variety because they have a texture almost exactly like real wood or stone. The deeper and more detailed the embossing, the better it is. Always try to pick a few random planks and check the quality of the texture with your fingers.

Although the vinyl itself is pretty durable, the entire plank can easily wear and tear if not made properly. The cheapest vinyl planks usually come with the shortest warranty and vice versa. It’s recommended you always choose a product at the top of your budget to ensure the best value for your money.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Use a lightweight vacuum or broom to remove fine dirt and debris that builds-up on the flooring. Depending on how much traffic your flooring endures, will determine how often you will need to sweep. Everyday dish soap and warm water work great with a damp mop. If your mop has a scrub brush on it, that is fine to use for harder grime just make sure it is plastic bristles and not wired or super stiff ones, it can damage it if it’s too abrasive. Be sure to rinse with a clean bucket of warm water after cleaning. If you feel like it needs more of a deep cleaning then use white vinegar and warm water or combine dish soap and vinegar.Try to avoid strong abrasive cleaners as it can damage the vinyl over time. Maintenance over time is almost non-existent but you could coat it with polish every year or so to protect against wear and tear and brighten it up a little bit. Most luxury vinyl flooring has a 25-year warranty or longer.

Feel free to Contact Us here at Retro Pro Kitchen and Bath and we would be happy to answer any questions you may have!

Kitchen Remodeling Tips And Advice

Posted on July 6, 2018 by Eric Johansson

Why Remodel?

Kitchen remodels can be exciting and discouraging at the same time. There are many reasons why you may want to remodel. You may not have enough space and storage to work comfortably in your kitchen, or everything is so outdated that it is needed. Whatever the reason is, focus on your main reason so that your vision will be achieved. Also, take into consideration improving the value of your home and your budget. When it’s all said and done these two things will give you a piece of mind.

Questions to ask yourself

What is your objective?
How long do you plan to live in the home?
Do you have children or pets?
Do you have allergies or health issues to consider?
Will you be living in your home during the renovation?
What is your budget?
What have people in similar homes accomplished, and what has been their limitations?
Can you remove that wall to open up the kitchen?
What’s behind those walls?
When do you want to start?

Get A Professional Involved

It is very important to not take on a kitchen remodel without a professional because kitchens are one of the more complicated projects to tackle. It also provides a relief to know it will be taken care of and you won’t have to worry about it every time you have free time that you need to spend it on your remodel.

A Few Things To Ask A Contractor:

Are you licensed and insured?

Can you draw up a detailed proposal?

Do you have in-house workers or do you sub-contract jobs out?

Do you have a designer on hand?

How often do we meet to check-in on the renovation?

How is your warranty protocol?

How A Project Is Sectioned Out

29% cabinets and hardware
22% design and installation
16% walls, ceiling, floors, doors, & windows
14% appliances and ventilation
9% electrical and plumbing

Ways To Save On Your Cabinets

Choose a manufacturer that offers the door style and finish you want as a standard option, with no up-charge. Don’t pay for factory-built or custom organizers. Aftermarket utensil dividers, rollout trays, and back-of-the-door spice racks are a fraction of the cost. Websites such as organize.com and cabinetparts.com are good ones to check out. Avoid custom configurations. You can often use stock wine organizers, cubby units, and even appliance panels to fill awkward spaces that might otherwise require you to buy a custom cabinet.

Think About The Details

Installing multiple outlets along the backsplash or on the island is a detail that most forget. It helps to provide electricity wherever you need it.
Having a cabinet for your garbage and recycle bin is very helpful in clearing space up in your kitchen and keeping the smell to a minimum, some cabinet companies are even designing a board to separate the drawer from the garbage pull-out to keep the smell contained even further.
Newer cabinets are now being designed for organization and so you can find soft closing drawers, inserts for knives, pull out storage for large appliances and spice racks. Think about your lifestyle and how easy you want to make it when working in the kitchen.
Another detail to think about is designing with future cleaning in mind. Find products that will keep cleaning minimal to save you time and energy in the long run. Flush-set or under-mount sinks don’t catch as much dirt and grime. Quartz countertops have way less maintenance than granite countertops.
Designing wide pathways for your kitchen is important for easy traffic flow. The standard paths throughout the kitchen should be at least 36 inches wide and in the cooking-zone area should be about 42 inches wide. When planning makes sure your kitchen island or peninsulas have a good width for you to get around with ease.

Feel free to Contact Us here at Retro Pro Kitchen and Bath and we would be happy to answer any questions you may have!

5 Common Myths About Remodeling Your Kitchen Or Bathroom

Posted on June 22, 2018 by Eric Johansson

Remodeling is not something one does every day. In fact, most people do not understand the ins and outs of home renovations or remodeling. Many homeowners are apprehensive about tackling the projects themselves or hiring a professional for fear of being ripped off. Are you thinking about remodeling your kitchen or bath? You’ll find lots of misconceptions that can confuse your decision-making process. Below we have listed the top 5 myths behind remodeling to help you make a better decision.

Doing a renovation yourself, hiring a relative or your local handyman to the job will save you more money.

It’s not an easy project doing a home renovation whether it’s one room or the whole house. If you just wanted one specific thing done like flooring or installing appliances then that might be a good option but if it’s an extensive project then hiring a professional contractor will provide you with the experience and a written contract with all your expectations on paper to give you a piece of mind. Do your homework and make sure you interview at least 3 different companies. Three things you should look for in these companies is time management, price, and quality of work. Pick two that mean the most to you and go with the contractor that meets those two. A professional contractor should provide you with a written estimate of the project, a calendar of events, and will proactively communicate with you throughout the process.

Most projects run longer and end up costing more in the end.

This can be true if you decide to add more to the budget or change products to pricer ones. Another thing that can sometimes happen is things occurring that were not accounted for in the budget like plumbing or electrical problems, this is especially true if it is an older home. If you properly plan and set up a budget this is less likely to occur and if it does then change products around so that you don’t go over budget. Depending on the age of the home, you may want to have a contingency fund available for unexpected issues. Even the best contractors can’t determine these issues ahead of time until they start to dig into the project.

Doing a home renovation will trash the whole house and yard.

It really depends on your contractor that you choose for the job. Make sure to ask about the after-cleaning and site maintenance. Most of the time when your remodeling your home you plan on living in the home while it is being renovated. A reputable contractor will clean up each day and maintain a living space for you. Always check with the contractor and calendar on days when power and water might be turn off for construction so there are no surprises.

Kitchen and bath remodeling is too expensive.

Once you set a budget for your remodeling needs you can begin your research to determine what works for your kitchen or bath remodel. No matter the budget for updating your kitchen or bath it will increase the value of your home automatically. Just don’t go overboard on upgrading unless you plan on living in the home for another 10+ years. Kitchen and bath remodeling is the best investments when adding upgrades to your home, just keep that in mind.

Hiring a reputable professional contractor is too expensive.

A professional contractor is the most experienced person to remodel your home and wouldn’t you rather save time, stress and money in the long run if you choose the right person for the job. Do your homework and interview at least 3 different companies to make sure you have the right fit for you and your project.

Feel free to Contact Us here at Retro Pro Kitchen and Bath and we would be happy to answer any questions you may have!

Make The Most Of Your Small Bathroom

Posted on June 8, 2018 by Eric Johansson

A small bathroom remodel is a very challenging project for any contractor because your space is limited and you want to make sure to plan carefully. Functionality comes first when planning for the renovation of a small bathroom. Then plan for storage and then decorating the space comes last. Don’t plan on a full-sized home spa if you have a tiny space because it won’t look right and you might run into clearance issues when it is finished. For example, choose a round-front toilet which is 2” shorter to save space and choose a shower design with no swinging door to keep more clearance are some space saving ideas.

To open up the space, brightening up the room will be the best way without changing what you have. Light colors is an easy way to achieve this. It alters our perception of the space and is more inviting when it’s light. If you still want to make the room pop just buy some towels or accessories with a bold color. Another way to brighten up the space is adding natural light whether it be a skylight or making the existing window larger.

Some things to consider when remodeling a small bathroom

Choose a bypass glass door
Keep your colors light
Use over-sized mirrors to create dimension
Create a pattern as an accent
Have minimal decor
Use colorful artwork on the wall instead of furniture
Add a corner vanity or a rounded vanity to make the space a little bigger
Keep it simple
Choose lighting with a design element like pendants, sconces, or wall-mounts.
Consider wall-mounted toilets to help save space
Use pocket doors
Use wall space for built-in storage
Get rid of the tub/shower combo and have a large walk-in shower
Have a wall vanity to give more floor space in the room
Install niches in the shower for convenience and organization
If you choose a white bathroom, think about painting the ceiling a dark bold color. This will draw your eye up and make it appear bigger.

What not to do:

Don’t rush the project-Poor planning is the leading cause of cost overruns.
Don’t skimp on skilled labor-A good tile setter can make the low-cost material look expensive.
Don’t cut corners on key materials-Cheaper materials that don’t have warranties will cause a problem quicker than you expect.
Don’t stop thinking about tomorrow-Ensure you plan for your future lifestyle with a remodel, at least 15-20 years.
Don’t forget to factor in water use-Bathroom fixtures have become more water-efficient if you add more showerheads to your shower make sure your drain supports the amount of water being used.
Don’t forget about storage-Lack of storage nowadays is bad for resale value. Think of creative ways to include storage.
Don’t buy products online, see them in person first-Researching online is great for ideas and designs but products don’t always look the same on the computer screen vs. in reality. In a store, you can always see if they will match the online price too.

Where to place your accessories:

Towel bar about 48″ from the ground
Toilet role about 6″ in front of the toilet
Medicine cabinet about 60-66″ from the ground
Robe hook about 66-72″ from the ground or on a door about 6″ from the top
Light fixtures about 66″ high

Feel free to Contact Us here at Retro Pro Kitchen and Bath and we would be happy to answer any questions you may have!

Choosing Paint Colors

Posted on June 1, 2018 by Eric Johansson

For a smooth transition between spaces, try choosing a color for one room and paint the adjacent space two shades away, lighter or darker, using tones from the same color chip. Wake up beige. Adding shades of the same color creates depth and interest. Paint below the chair rail a deeper shade of the existing wall.

Start with inspiration. Look for ideas of how you want your space to look. Google design ideas or skim through places like Pinterest to narrow down what styles you like. Make a board for each room. Once you get a significant number that gives you an idea of what you’re looking for then start weaning out the ones you only like a little

Buy testers. If you choose a few of your color choices/shades and paint a large enough area on a few different walls so that you can see how your light in the room hits it at different times of the day. Don’t test a small amount on a white wall because it will throw off the color. Make sure it is a big enough test area to really see the color. Testers are usually a few bucks but it is well worth spending the money before purchasing a gallon and not liking what you get. Plus the leftover samples are great for touch up and other small painting projects. Don’t just stop at testing the walls also test your paint colors against furniture and fabrics. It not necessary that it matches but you do want it to go well with it.

Tip: Don’t necessarily paint the entire living space all one color, try to break up the painting in some rooms or accent walls a few shades lighter or darker on the same color strip. This will add some depth to the space and make it look like a professional did the job.

Pick the right Sheen. Any sheen in a paint will accent flaws, so don’t use sheen if you are trying to mask flaws on your wall. Here are some guidelines for the types of finishing choices:

Flat (Matte): This has no shine at all and is perfect for low traffic areas like living rooms and bedrooms. Ceilings as well.
Flat Enamel: This has almost no shine but it is easier to clean than flat paint. It is great for low traffic areas also and is best for kids and pets.
Eggshell Enamel: This is minimal shine and best to use in moderate traffic areas like the living room. Most scuff marks will come off with a damp cloth.
Satin Enamel: This has more shine and works well in high traffic areas or areas that have a high moisture content. A good space is kitchens, bathrooms or laundry rooms.
Semi-Gloss: This is on the shiny side and great for high moisture areas but can also be used on cabinets or trim.
Hi-Gloss Enamel: Very shiny! This gives an almost glass-like finish and is perfect for high use surfaces like furniture or railings.

Understand Undertones. Use the darkest strip on the color strip to discover the true color. It will help determine your color without choosing a paint that is too much of the color you intended.

Pick a color theme for the whole home. This doesn’t mean the same color throughout the whole house. Model homes are a perfect example of having a color theme throughout the home. They keep the main living space wall neutral and use fabrics and accessories to add color. Then the bedrooms may have accent colors from the living space on the walls and keep the bedding neutral.

A few mistakes to avoid:

Picking your paint color first. Pick it last because you want to wait to see what all the fabrics and other elements look like in the space with the lighting and natural light in the room.
Picking a color that is too bright or saturated. It’s a lot stronger as a painted wall than an accent even if it trendy. Lighter, muddy colors or colors that have more gray or black in them work better than bright strong hues on the walls. Stick to bright for your accent pieces.
Not considering the home as a whole. Transitioning a color from one room to the next can be tricky and it doesn’t flow well if you have an orange in one room and a pink in another.
Losing sight of your emotional goal. Don’t just choose your favorite color, choose a color that is intended for what you want out of the space. For example: if you want your kitchen to be airy and refreshing, look at pale yellows or white with a tint of yellow to it, not bright fire engine red.
Ignoring trends-Even though you may love bright colors make sure to look at what’s trending for example right now softer colors are trending, more muted tones and a lot of black with metallic accents.

Feel free to Contact Us here at Retro Pro Kitchen and Bath and we would be happy to answer any questions you may have!

What To Do With A Galley Kitchen

Posted on May 10, 2018 by Eric Johansson

What is a galley kitchen? A galley kitchen is a narrow usually small kitchen with one long aisle lined with countertops, cabinets, & appliances on either side. Below gives you a general idea of a galley kitchen layout.

Small kitchens aren’t necessarily a bad thing. If the space is designed correctly you will find a galley kitchen is functional. If your kitchen is an outdated galley kitchen then yes it was probably badly designed and creates a hectic workspace. Fear not remodeling your galley kitchen can help make the space more efficient and give you just as much storage as a large kitchen. It truly is an effective space and makes the most for a true chef as long as you have the right designer in place to give you what you are looking for. With the long aisle and parallel counters, this is designed exactly how the professional kitchens are in restaurants. The only thing you may not get in a galley kitchen that you do with a large kitchen is the open concept. When you entertain an open kitchen gives you a chance to mingle with your guests while still working in the kitchen, this is less likely to occur with a galley kitchen but isn’t impossible if it’s designed right.

Look at the positive side of a galley kitchen. If you love to cook this is an ideal way to control traffic flow in and out of the kitchen. It’s ideal for one person in the kitchen so it’s a great asset if there tends to be too many cooks in the kitchen. Tidying up a galley kitchen is usually easier because the design is minimal. It keeps the cook organized and utilizes the space around them. It also follows the design technique of the “kitchen triangle” which is an invisible line that is drawn between the sink, stove, and refrigerator creating optimal efficiency.

Getting ready for your galley kitchen remodel. The vertical cabinet is a great way to utilize space. Getting bins and baskets to store extra cooking tools and various accessories like cookbooks can be stored up higher while the necessities can be stored at arm’s length. Get rid of countertop appliances that you don’t use much and invest in multi-use appliances. Pot racks are another good addition to save on cabinet space and can add some style to the kitchen.

Choosing a style. Choosing the right style for a galley kitchen can be tricky, first of all, remember that galley kitchens can be dark and dungeon-like because of the space confinement. It is best to go light and bright when designing your galley kitchen. This will help make the kitchen feel open and spacious. Making sure to have a lot of natural light is important so, make a larger window or add skylights will help open up the kitchen. Choosing lighter paint colors will reflect the light in the space also. White is the trend for kitchens now so this will also add a timeless look if you are trying to sell. To add depth pick out colorful accents to make the space inviting. Under cabinet lighting is another nice feature especially for cooking.

Dining in a galley kitchen. It might be hard to dine in a galley kitchen but you can possibly create a breakfast bar or nook that will give you somewhat interaction with your guests. This is popular in large kitchens also but usually, it is an island in the middle of the kitchen.

Feel free to contact us here at Retro Pro Kitchen and Bath and we would be happy to answer any questions you may have!

How To Teach Your Kids About Remodeling And Fixing Things Around The House

Posted on April 27, 2018 by Eric Johansson

It’s every dad’s dream when they have their first child is to teach them something they are good at. Working with your hands is becoming a thing of the past in most households but it is very important for their future as independent adults and important for learning to work together as a family. First, in order to teach your children independence, let’s take a look at some things that might make your children become helpless adults. More and more adults are recognizing the signs of entitlement in their kids. We see kids who won’t lift a finger to help out, who think the world revolves around them, who rarely show gratitude or empathy and who demand more..more…more! Entitlement or laziness is sown over the years in a million little parenting decisions–all made in the name of love. Sometimes a few tweaks in parenting styles can make all the difference. Below are some of the most common entitlement-prone parenting styles, as well as a few proven fixes:

1. Keeping them happy at all costs- This might be you if: You’d rather let your kids dominate your phone during errands or pulling strings with teachers and coaches than face a tantrum. When we drop everything to help our kids avoid unhappiness or disappointment, we teach them that their happiness is top priority. Then when they get into this routine if they face life’s setbacks like not getting something they want they are unable to cope. Help your children early on to develop strategies for overcoming difficulties large and small. The fix: Kids are entitled to your love and undivided attention every day. Spend 10 minutes a day individually with each child, on their terms, doing whatever they want to do during that time. Commit to it on a daily basis and you can watch as entitled behaviors melt away. Your kids will stop trying to get your attention in negative ways (like tantrums and negotiating) when they know they’ll get it in positive ways.
2. Being an enabler- This might be you if: your children expect you to clean up after their mess. The start of this is small because when they are newborns they can’t do anything and so you get in the habit of doing everything. As they get older parents are already in the habit of doing everything themselves so they have a hard time letting go because apart of them doesn’t want their kid to grow up or they just feel it will get done faster if they do it. As your child goes through each stage of life it is important to let them become a little more independent each time. Little things like picking up after themselves, helping out with chores or participating in cooking, even making them eat things they don’t like because that is what everyone else is having can go a long way in not enabling them. Fix: Setting ground rules for yourself is very important to not enable your child. Telling them they are really growing up and old enough now to do things on their own is also very good. Be sure to set them up for success by helping them understand it’s the next stage of their life, just like school and going to the next grade level. Giving them chores on weekly basis will also help build responsibility. Like all children they will throw a fit on not wanting to do it but not give in to this behavior will ensure that eventually, they will just do it instead of trying to get out of it. Remember to follow through on your ground rules.
3. Being the rescuer- This might be you if: your child can’t remember things like homework, permission, slips, lunch unless you remind them every time. You’ve had the sense for a long time that your kids could remember their lunches by themselves but never seem to and feel entitled to your personal delivery service when they forget. The fix: Anyone can make a mistake from time to time but they will only learn if they get in the habit of remembering what they need. Tell your kids in advance that you’ll no longer be rescuing them. Be clear about your expectations, and help them brainstorm strategies to keep track of their responsibilities.
4. Being the indulger- This might be you if: your child demands to drink a soda with every meal and wins or your toddler throws a temper tantrum unless they have your phone to play with. It’s not wrong to let kids experience life’s little pleasures, but it’s our job to set the appropriate limits we know are best. Entitled kids are known for thinking of themselves as above the rules, and deserving the best of what life has to offer. We can change this mindset by sticking with the limits we set and ignoring the protests and negotiations. The Fix: By providing plenty of opportunities for kids to wield age-appropriate control over their own lives will give them a sense of power over positive things such as eating healthy, doing their homework and budgeting. When they have this control over some aspects of their lives they will less likely pitch a fit when we have to say no or enforce limits on other areas that are more for adults, like dating or curfews.
5. Being over the top- This might be you if: You go far out of your way to make sure your kids have the best childhoods possible. Tons of presents at holidays, designer bedrooms and picture-perfect outfits are all great things but kids don’t need them. If they always experience the best of what life has to offer when they are young, then they feel entitled to it as they grow older. Cutting back our over-the-top tendencies will make for happier, more contented children down the road. The Fix: Take pleasure in the little things by expressing gratitude for what you do have instead of focusing on what you want. In fact, research shows that grateful people are happier overall. Involve your kids, and create daily or weekly gratitude rituals to help them appreciate what’s most important in their lives.

Now that we have covered techniques for good parenting styles, getting your children involved in helping fix little house issues will be a blast. They will get to bond with you and learn how to take care of their own home when they are older. Kids love to feel needed. They like to know that although they are a bit smaller than mom and dad, they can still help out around the house. Giving a child a hammer and some nails to bang into a scrap piece of wood is good training and it helps kids know that they really made a difference. You can have them help you with a few repair jobs around the house that will make them feel valuable.

Oil Hinges- Open a door and point out the squeaky noise to the child. Now when I was a kid the best thing to use was a can of WD40 to get rid of the squeak but over the years I have found that a silicone base of lubricant works way better. Show your kid how to make the noise stop by squirting a few drops inside the hinge. Make sure to also mention the harmful aspects of the job so they always know the do’s and don’t.

Tighten Handles- Grab a Phillips screwdriver and a flathead to show your kid the difference between the two. Then show them how to tighten the screws to keep the handle from wiggling.

Loose Towel Rack- If towel racks are loose, after teaching your child to tighten handles they can tighten the racks.

Scuff Marks on Linoleum- There are a few techniques you use to teach your kid how to get scuff marks off the floor. Toothpaste with a washcloth, a pencil eraser or the nifty Mr. Clean dry eraser works wonders. Show them all of them because it will teach them how to think outside the box in situations. With toothpaste dab some on the scuff mark and use the cloth or eraser to rub it. Then show them the easier method of buying a Mr. Clean dry eraser and wetting it down then rubbing the mark until it’s gone. Note: This is also good if they decide that their wall is a canvas, you can teach them to clean up their own mess by scrubbing the wall until it’s gone. If it is permanent then the next job will come in handy for them.

Painting- This is a good job to teach children early on because everyone has to paint something or other in their lifetime. Grab a small paint brush, painter’s tape, and a plastic Tupperware to give them some paint to start out with. First, show them the steps to painting and why we do this. You can always start with little touch-up jobs with the younger ones and work up to bigger projects. Giving your child the opportunity to repair things in the house is a big deal to them. They will feel like they have done something substantial and will likely never have to worry about them wanting to help you with future projects if you make it fun and not a chore.

Some ideas for practicing to get little ones in the habit of hands-on work

Tools of their own- You can buy reasonably priced kid-size tools. A toolbox I like is the “Grip” nine-piece children’s Toolkit which costs about $35 and is available on kids toolbox. A cordless driver though made for adults is a fun tool for them to learn to use, the Skil iXO and black & decker L13100 cordless drivers are perfect for little hands. It’s about $30. A low-temp hot-glue gun is safe to start learning to glue things together. A hand drill works easily without pinching fingers. Put a piece of wood into a vise and have them practice making holes. The Fiskars craft drill comes with four bits and is a great start for only $16 fiskars craft drill. A keyhole saw strengthens young kids’ hands and is sized for better control. The handy saw set comes with fine and coarse tooth blades for about $7 at forsmallhands.com
Learning to hammer- To a kid who isn’t quite ready to drive nails, nothing feels better than whap, crackle, and pop. Supply a kid-size hammer or a rubber mallet and show them how to hammer bubble wrap. After they master this you can upgrade to a nail and scrap wood, hammer the nails in half way and let them finish the job. Soon they will be helping you build your next project.
Driving screws- This is fun and a higher level of experience for kids. Put some screws in a scrap of drywall and let the kids screw them in with a cordless screwdriver or hand-held screwdriver. Drywall is a lot easier than wood, once they have that down upgrade to a block of wood half drilled. They will feel so accomplished once they get it down.
How to use a wrench- This is another great beginner tool. Put different size bolts on boards and then let your kid use wrenches to attach color-coordinated nuts to each one.
Sawing- This is a skilled technique and can also help with preciseness. Clamp some foam core to a workbench and let the kid saw strips. Foam core is easier to than wood and then upgrade when they are ready.

Kids are easily frustrated so be careful not to go too fast for them. Let kids handle the tool to see how it works and feel. Let them get a sense of accomplishment with it before moving on to another one. Remember perfection is not the goal, enjoying the work is the most important lesson learned. Another thing you can do is sign up at Home-depot where they have a workshop each month learning a new project. They are free and something that will help you bond with your children.

Feel free to contact us here at Retro Pro Kitchen and Bath and we would be happy to answer any questions you may have!