'Tis the season to hang a pendant light

By Tammy

Today is the day the busy family finally pulled the trigger and ordered a new pendant light fixture for our breakfast nook style update.  Wanna see it?

Barn Light Warehouse Pendant

For me, there is just something about the history of objects that fascinate me.  Found around farms and within early American factories, this shade design is nearly 100 years old!  Plus, it's American made.  This vintage industrial barn light from Barn Light Electric will be making its way to my doorstep just in time for the holidays.

With a Compact Fluorescent Light (CFL) bulb, I'm keeping my fingers crossed it can't add much more to my already-growing December electric bill... so 'tis the season to hang lights.

Photo

From Pinterest

(Up)Date Night Part III: The Big Reveal

Tami wraps up her (Up)Date Night story, telling about the great change the new Wilsonart HD Countertop and undermount Wilsonart Stainless Steel sink made to her kitchen. Tami also sends kudos to L.E. Smith Company and Bryan Building Center for their contributions. Click here for more information about Wilsonart HD.

Remodeling on A Budget Part 1

By Jenn at Five Dollar Shake
 
Six years ago, my husband and I decided to sell our little two bedroom house in search of a bigger and better home to raise our kids in. It didn't take us long to decide on a location, but the house was another story. There were very little homes in our price range to choose from. So, we went with the best constructed home that needed the least amount of work. What it did need was cosmetic attention, and lot's of it. Each and every room was covered in wallpaper and dark brown carpet, ah la 70's style.

Then the economy crashed, and our income was cut in half. Making even the cosmetic changes more difficult. Happy to be in a home in our choice of neighborhood with our choice of schools, we waited, and waited. We waited until one day I said, ya know what - let's just do it, let's dig in and if it takes us a year, so be it. Well, it took us way over a year, much closer to two, but we did it, and we did it all on a budget.

I’m very excited to have the opportunity to share the details here on The Lean Remodeler of our complete make over of three rooms (kitchen, dining, living room) all at once, and on a budget.

The biggest tip from our experience of remodeling on a budget is to plan to do everything you are capable of yourself! Thankfully, my husband is a real “do it yourself” kind of guy. Taking advantage of opportunities such as Wilsonart’s DIY countertops literally saved us hundreds!

Below is a photo of our living room, and an example of how we lived while doing our remodel one step at a time, as our budget permitted.




Was it worth it? You'll soon see for yourself...

Taking on an Outdoor GFCI Outlet

By Tammy

Pulling into our driveway about a year ago (yes, I did say a year ago), we noticed half of the exterior up-lighting was not working.  We did the normal process of checking the exterior GFCI outlet's RESET / TEST buttons.  And, neither would work.  The buttons were stuck!  It was easier to say, we’ll check it out in the morning… 

The morning came and like any busy family, we went about our normal daily activities.  So, short story… the up-lighting just wasn’t that big of a deal at the time.  It simply took a back seat.  Time went on and I would occasionally throw the jab, “Honey, we need to change the outdoor plug.”  It was usually met with, “It’s on the list.”    

We don’t know much about electricity when it comes to changing out fixtures and outlets.  But this weekend was the weekend to tackle that darn plug.  And I knew exactly where to go for some assurance. 

We started by watching a How To video on YouTube.  Okay, we watched several…but this one gave us the confidence to DIY this project.

 

The hallelujah moment came when we opened up the outlet to discover it was not connected to an interior room (only 3 wires baby!) just like the video.  Of course, it's my duty to remind you that you should never undertake an electrical project without following proper safety precautions!

Say “Hello” to the new GFCI outlet. 

See the green "on" indicator light?  Yes!  We did it right.

And now a year later, the left side matches the right side.

Plus, we can finally mark this item off of our to-do list.  I’m already seeing a new light fixture for our breakfast nook design update (hey, there’s a How To video on that too).

Has anyone else had a positive outcome working from a YouTube video?

Urban Pioneer: Tug of War with my Fridge

By Andrea, the Urban Pioneer

I've talked a little about the kitchen, hitting the low-lights, but let me dig a little deeper and tell you the oh-so-frustrating story of my refrigerator.

On a warm summer day (yes, we do have those in Minnesota), I moved in to my little piece of Urban heaven.  My furniture was in place, boxes were piled in the 2nd bedroom for safe hiding and I loaded up the fridge with food.  When I returned after a weekend at the lake, I found the fridge had slow cooked all of my groceries sitting at a balmy 87 degrees.  The food went into the trash and off to the appliance store I went.

My new fridge arrives, new food is purchased and I go on my way.

If only it were so easy...

But the 2nd fridge didn't work either!  Fortunately, this time I didn't load it up with food, so my loss was minimal.  A quick call to the appliance store and I believe a new fridge will be at my door sooner than later. Wrong again!  Due to an address mix up that "could not be fixed while an order was still in process," it took three weeks to get a working fridge delivered.  When the new one showed up, it fit through the 1911 doorway, but not into the space reserved for the fridge in the kitchen.

My refrigerator in the 'freezer using' position

After a month or so without a working refrigerator, I decided to keep what I had knowing plans of a remodel are in my near future.  In the meantime, I have to push and pull the fridge into place, depending on if I want to get in the freezer or get out my kitchen door.  I'm looking at it as extra security... but redoing the kitchen and finding the fridge a home sure would be nice.

(Up)Date Night Part II: Tammy Tours L.E. Smith

Tami has a kitchen makeover, including Wilsonart HD countertop in the Deepstar Bronze pattern (1814). She even gets a tour of L.E. Smith Company's fabrication shop to see her countertop being made. Click here for more information about Wilsonart HD Laminate.

(Up)Date Night Part 1: Meet the Roushias

The (Up)Date Night crew made a stop to Bryan, Ohio for our next installment.  Tami Roushia and her children recently moved and wanted to make the 'new to them' house their home!  Tami is a Personalizer, looking to make her kitchen reflect her likes and style; the kitchen was nice, but just not her taste.

Urban Pioneer: Tug of War with the Fridge

By Andrea, the Urban Pioneer

I've talked a little about the kitchen, hitting the low-lights, but let me dig a little deeper and tell you the oh-so-frustrating story of my refrigerator.

On a warm summer day (yes, we do have those in Minnesota), I moved in to my little piece of Urban heaven.  My furniture was in place, boxes were piled in the 2nd bedroom for safe hiding and I loaded up the fridge with food.  When I returned after a weekend at the lake, I found the fridge had slow cooked all of my groceries sitting at a balmy 87 degrees.  The food went into the trash and off to the appliance store I went.

My new fridge arrives, new food is purchased and I go on my way.

If only it were so easy...

But the 2nd fridge didn't work either!  Fortunately, this time I didn't load it up with food, so my loss was minimal.  A quick call to the appliance store and I believe a new fridge will be at my door sooner than later. Wrong again!  Due to an address mix up that "could not be fixed while an order was still in process," it took three weeks to get a working fridge delivered.  When the new one showed up, it fit through the 1911 doorway, but not into the space reserved for the fridge in the kitchen.

My refrigerator in the 'freezer using' position

After a month or so without a working refrigerator, I decided to keep what I had knowing plans of a remodel are in my near future.  In the meantime, I have to push and pull the fridge into place, depending on if I want to get in the freezer or get out my kitchen door.  I'm looking at it as extra security... but redoing the kitchen and finding the fridge a home sure would be nice.

More than a coat of paint

By Gale

If you are contemplating buying your first home, with all the enthusiasm and nervousness that comes with that decision, then you can better appreciate the challenges of my friends who are upgrading from a tiny condo to their first “real” house.  The price was right, the neighborhood older and established with good schools nearby - perfect for a couple expecting their first child.

When they fell in love with the house, they did not clearly see all of its flaws.  It was indeed a surprise to discover the cabinet doors that would not close, the chipped kitchen sink and the badly worn countertop.  They relegated the other rooms to a “coat of paint change”, while the kitchen needed real help.

I gave them advice about how to fix the non-closing doors without too much effort and focused their attention on the sink and countertop. The dreams of granite vanished when they priced it out. We discussed how to get the best deal for their tiny budget. And the answer is a new high definition laminate countertop and an integral sink. Both are meant for hard wear and tear, a factor of life with a small child and even busier schedules.

A visit from the countertop fabricator gave them the confidence that this could be done in a short time, while they were handling the painted facelift in another room. Within two weeks, they have a new kitchen without the agony of tearing everything out. The countertop gives them a whole new look and there is a little leftover to buy those bar stools that they saw on sale.

The moral of this story is to shop wisely, understand what your budget will give you, and then find the best person to help you accomplish this change.

Finding Inspiration: Making a House a Home

By Andrea, The Urban Pioneer

When I start to think about making my house my home...it overwhelms me. I've heard from Gale that each room has 200 decorating choices. That's 1,400 choices for my little urban condo. Yikes!

I'm a small store shopper, give me a boutique and I'm good. Send me into a department store, and I shut down. Too many options sends me into anxiety overload (1,400 choices is about 1,390 to many for me!). Looking at the empty rooms and thinking about all the potential for each one is exciting, but scary.

I've asked around for advice, really just wanting someone to tell me "Do this and your house will be amazing." But, that usually costs a little money, and I'm going to do this on a lean budget.  So far, the best advice has been "Start with pillow shopping." What?  Pillow shopping?  You're crazy.

Not so!  Find a pillow that speaks to your style and color preferences and the rest of the room will follow.  A pillow is easy to bring shopping, and somewhat inexpensive to change out when you tire of them.

So pillow shopping I go...and boy, there are a lot of pillows out there!  Here is what I've found so far.

Pillows that 'speak to me"

Where do you find decorating inspiration?

Before & During: Playfully Mixing it Up with Stripes

By Tammy

The busy family is still going strong with the home remodel / style updates.   We finally have our daughter's play room painted.  If you recall, I posted a contest to see what color palette I should use.  Refer to my Fun with Color post here.

Many thanks to everyone's comments via the blog, Twitter and Facebook.  The close winner was "D."  What a beautiful color palette.  The playful stripes adds additional pop of fun color.  My stylist was right on with these suggestions.  However...

The client always wins!  Yep, you guessed it.  My daughter would not budge from the purple and pinkish combo of "A," which is Mysterious Mauve SW6262, Refresh SW6751 and Ruby Shade SW6572.  And in reality, it is her magical room.  You know what though?  It turned out stunning.

Would the client change anything?  The client got her way, but we had to limit the use of the stripes.  She has requested and continues to request that we run the stripes around the entire room.  Not!  

For all the DIYers, my husband picked up some FrogTape with paint block to assist with the stripes.  It didn't completely work, but it worked good enough.  We didn't need to touch-up, so it was worth it.  But then again, it could very well be a user error.

So what's next?  We really need to find a desk that would fit the room without taking up too much space.  And, I've been eyeing some lounge seating to make this play room easily adaptable to the not so far off Tween media/hang out room.

At the moment, I'm kinda drawn to the eggplant color and silver shown in my solo pin.  If anyone has any suggestions or possible pins for my Pinterest board, please feel free to drop me some comments.

Remodeling when time's not on your side

By Gale

Meet my dear friends, The Procrastinators (most of us know who they are and sometimes we are all just like them). They are filled with good intentions and great plans, but they never seem to find the time to actually move ahead with their objectives. As a consequence, things look a little worn out at their home. The cabinet doors do not shut; some of the hardware is non-functional, two burners of the cooktop stopped working some time ago. Let’s not even talk about the countertop, which looks like it has been through a war and then some.

Their biggest problem is simply finding time to get these projects done. They want to fix up the kitchen, for example, but are afraid that any disruption will mean they cannot continue to use the room. We had a heart-to-heart talk recently, and I point out that if they focus on the parts of the kitchen that need to be upgraded (or replaced altogether), then the actual process of remodeling will move along smoothly.

If you are simply replacing appliances or cabinets without moving them around, then the inconvenience time is reduced to just a few days (not weeks or months as they imagined), that is, assuming you have a contractor who can come when you plan. But surprisingly, even a countertop replacement takes only a day of inconvenience. The fabricator measures the space and then brings the new countertop two weeks later. In the meantime, you have use of the kitchen.

They were relieved and headed off to look at all their choices. I gave them a new mantra:

“To make it work easily and quickly, simply find products that will fit into the same size space in your existing room."

The second piece of advice is even less complicated: Always have a tape measure available, along with a little notebook with your measurements written down. When in doubt, measure and remeasure.

In defense of the underdog

by Mike Ferrara, The Lazy Homeowner

Hello there. I just read the Consumer Reports story on kitchen countertops. As always, they do a good job of covering all the options. However, as a person who's done his share of kitchen remodeling, I have a few 'bones' to pick over some of the statements made about the perennial stepchild of this subject, laminate.

Consumer Reports starts out well when it states in their Granite section that: "It's still what you'll see in magazines and real-estate ads, but fancy faux materials are giving granite serious competition." That's for sure. Any remodeler on a budget can see why...using the new high-definition laminates will give you the same look for less than half the cost. And without the yearly chore of resealing.

The report states that laminate shows seams on the front edge and elsewhere. This is old information. When you combine laminate with a custom edge, there is literally no 'brown edge' to be seen. And a good fabricator can make sure you don't get any obvious corner seams as well.

Now the editors get into trouble when they claim that laminates are "no longer trendy..."After looking at just some of the newest stone, marble and granite patterns at my local home center, this statement couldn't be farther off the mark. Kitchen trends come and go, but the current trend toward natural materials is being met quite well by the newest laminate designs. And when the current trend is replaced by something else, the good news is that with laminate, you're not looking at taking out a second mortgage if you want a new countertop!

Lastly, Consumer Reports says that laminate is easily "scratched and nicked..." Just about any countertop material, including natural stone and recycled glass can get scratched or nicked if you don't employ common sense and use a cutting board or a hotplate.  The newest laminates from Wilsonart are infused with a high-tech aluminum oxide finish that is very resistant to wear, and keeps the countertop looking new for a long time.

So maybe I just have a soft spot for underdogs, but in this case I needed to speak out...let's not keep repeating old information and state the clear fact that the new generation of laminate is a viable alternative to granite.

Mike Ferrara, also known as The Lazy Homeowner and TechnoDad, has spent the last 20 years covering the home and garden industries, serving as a magazine and newspaper editor, TV personality, and most recently as a blog editor and public relations consultant to Wilsonart International and other home improvement companies.  His views are his own.

An open mind about an open kitchen

By Gale

Opening your kitchen up is much more convenient for the cook as well as everyone else who enjoys being there. It also requires planning ahead to make sure that what you see from the next room is what you want your family and friends to see in the kitchen.

Stand or sit in your family room or dining area and imagine what that will be before you open up the walls. This little step may affect your plans for an open space kitchen. Here are three visual solutions to consider:

This birch kitchen design by KraftMaid Cabinets in birch in Prairie finish illustrates how the space was created to feel open but allow the cook to have some privacy. The multi-level island adds more storage as well as serving space.

This open-plan kitchen resolved two problems: where to eat casually and merged a color scheme from the nearby great room into a new kitchen with an extended countertop.

The choice was a countertop pattern with multiple colors that blends with the wall color and fabrics. Find more blending ideas by visiting WilsonartHD.com.

The Urban Pioneer: The Kitchen Should be Condemned

by Andrea, The Urban Pioneer

Oh the Kitchen. When I purchased my little piece of urban heaven, I turned a blind eye to the kitchen. The location, the charm, the garage all won me over and allowed me to forget about the kitchen.

So what makes it so bad? Well, take a look at some of the pictures.


We'll start with the lighting. You could put Heidi Klum under these lights and she would look like a troll. Not only is the lighting bad, the refrigerator blocks what little natural light comes in from the north facing window.

The cabinets are in sad shape. The sink was apparently used for paint clean up and someone forgot to clean it. And the floor sticky tiles keep peeling back.



And oh the countertop...we are talking late 70's early 80's yellowish laminate, the cornerstone of every girls dream kitchen, ha!

So what's next? Deciding if this kitchen can be saved or needs to be completely gutted. What do you think?

Mixing Materials

By Tammy

Today's kitchens are ready for the "best dressed" list.  Fashion staples like stone and wood are being "accessorized" with tile and glass accents, metallic fixtures and appliances, and sculpted, architectural details.  Wilsonart HD designs have been created with those accessories in mind.  And think about the countertop as "jewelry" that finishes your kitchen (look for inspiration on the web - not just on design sites, but also on fashion, jewelry sites).



Seeing is believing, right?  The look of stone can be classic and contemporary at the same time. Wilsonart HD laminate takes the look of stone and incorporates it into new patterns for 2011. We invite you to see how this can look in your home. Visualize it today.

Before and During: Kitchen Nook Style Update

by Tammy

The busy, active family is at it again.  Progress is progress, right?  The kitchen nook is probably the one room that is fairly easy to tackle with our on-going style updates.  Here's a few pictures of the Before:

College table keeps growing with me through the years

 

Faux finish with a tea stain

Pantry - Let's not open it, LOL!

By simply adding a fresh coat of new paint, a colorful table runner and fabulous new chairs (see previous post), it took this kitchen nook from "oh, so not us country" to "make a statement - WOW!"

Of course, there are still things on my to-do list such as sanding and painting the kitchy table the Reflecting Pool blue.  This job my husband volunteered for. Ladies don't you love it when your husband volunteers to do a project for you?  Not sure about your husband, but mine has ulterior motives.  This is his chance to cash in on new power tools.

And what I'm really excited about, my stylist is working on options for my new, cool light fixture... so stay tuned on my continuing reveal.

In the meantime, I would love to hear your thoughts on adding beadboard over the "white faux finish" (the faux is still there but more masked) in this remodel project. This would give the final reveal a more classic, sophisticated look.

The Urban Pioneer: Oh the List

By Andrea

My place was built in 1911, it has been kept in decent to good shape but when a condo reaches 100, it has some fixin’ up to do. Before I even start the decorating process, I have to conquer ‘the list’ and get the bones of my condo in good condition. It’s a given that everything will get a fresh coat of paint…but here’s the rest of the to do’s and a few pictures of the work ahead.

1. Front Door
a. New Lock to cover all the holes

b. New Numbers, I want to make a great 1st impression
c. Re-varnished, it looks like someone took a power sander to the door.

2. Living Room
a. Ceiling fans
b. Crown Molding
c. New Windows
d. Refinish woodwork

3. Dining Room
a. Replace Light
b. Level floor


4. Kitchen
a. Too many to list, I'll tell all about this mess next week.

5. Porch...I'll let the picture speak for its self.

As you can see, I have a project or a million projects on my hands!

An open kitchen starts with an open mind

By Gale

We all agree that the kitchen is the most important room in the house. It is the best reflection of you and your family’s lifestyle.  Do not be swayed by the opinions of others. However, while that is easy to say, it's not so easy to do.

Recently I helped a friend who had fallen in love with the image of an open plan kitchen, and she was trying hard to fit that idea into her older closed kitchen. The clip she had saved from a magazine was really gorgeous, but like a jigsaw puzzle, the piece has to fit into the space allotted. And that is where her plans for the dream kitchen fell apart.  Here are some things to consider if you are pondering opening up your kitchen:

• What walls are you planning to eliminate to create the open plan kitchen? Are they load-bearing walls or can they be safely removed without affecting the structural integrity of your house? A good contractor or designer can help you determine that.

• If you are knocking down a wall, how much cabinet space are you losing as a result? Where are you planning to relocate what is stored inside those cabinets?

• Do you have to move plumbing or electric outlets to achieve your goal? Check on the cost of doing so before moving ahead.

• Will your cooking or cleanup space be visible from the adjoining room? If you are a messy cook, think about creating a visual barrier such as a raised counter so your guests cannot see the clutter.

• Does the new color scheme work with the existing colors in the spaces beyond? You should coordinate the colors from one room to another; they do not have to match but should be in the same family. This applies to countertop selections as well as cabinets.

Obviously, this doesn't cover all of the considerations you should take into account when opening up your kitchen, but this should serve as the starting point to getting you the dream kitchen that you want.

Pin Away

By Tammy

While working through my own home style updates, I have been playing around with virtual pinboards.  And one that I have fallen for is Pinterest.  Check out the beginnings of my Industrial Chic pinboard - I love, love, love it!  It's a whole lot easier than printing out images from online sites or tearing out pictures from magazines (think eco-chic).  I know many of my creative friends and co-workers will enjoy this handy dandy tool just as much.

Here's a little Pinterest 101:

• Collect and Share all those inspirational images you uncover online
• Easily browse pinboards of interest created by other creative minds
• Use the "Search" box to find your style; it's valuable

Pinterest is connecting people all over the world based on shared interests and tastes.  Many of my bloggie friends are using virtual pinboards in so many ways from planning their weddings, decorating their homes, to just plain fun of sharing food recipes and more.  Even pins for Wilsonart Laminate and Solid Surfacing products are showing up on virtual boards.  (Hint! Wilsonart folks - check it out here.) 

The Pinterest team has done a fine job of making pinning easy.  They've even created a "Pin It" button for use with the Firefox Bookmark Toolbar.  That's how I'm easily pinning... Once you have setup an account, check out their "Goodies" link on how to install this and much more.

I hope you'll find this info beneficial and perhaps, it will inspire you to create your own virtual pinboard for sharing.  Happy pinning everyone!

The Urban Pioneer: My Place In the Heart of Minneapolis

By Andrea, The Urban Pioneer

My little corner in the city was the first place I looked at during the house hunt. I fell in love with the character, the location and the fact that it has a garage...tough to come by and much needed in Minneapolis. This little urban condo has original craftsman style doors, a dining room built-in cabinet, high ceilings, crown molding, hard-wood floors and an awesome screened in front porch. I'm looking for a way to combine the old character charm and a new urban feel, like this place.

I put an offer in after one quick walk through never thinking they would take my bid. I was told I was 4th on the list. Well, two days later I find out I am now the proud owner of a 1911 condo in the heart of Minneapolis!

With keys in hand, I opened the door to my new home and realized I was looking through what I'll call 'light pink, not rose, colored glasses' during my initial visit. While the place still has it charm...and garage, it also has a major list of fix ups. With a little elbow grease, a lot of idea hunting and the help of family and friends, I know I can take this urban condos potential and turn it into reality. Now it's time to get to work!

The Urban Pioneer

By Andrea, The Urban Pioneer

Hello, and welcome to my journey as the Urban Pioneer! Over the next few months you’ll get to know me, my Minneapolis condo and the journey of my urban life.

Let's start with who I am. I’m new (again) to the Twin Cities; I grew in Minnesota but took what I call a brief tour of the upper-Midwest before making it back 15 years later. It is great to be back in Minneapolis…even with the winters…and they are bad. I love to volunteer, play a little tennis and drink a great wine with friends on a fabulous roof-top deck.

I love to dream up projects around the house, and boy have I found the right place for that! (more on 'the project list' later) I am fortunate to have a very talented and supportive family who are all handy around the house; a dad who can replicate most any wooden furniture and a mom who can sew a curtain in no time flat. With their help, a lot of time, and some blogging along the way, I’m hoping I can whip my ‘new to me’ urban condo into a place I’m proud to call home.

Dressed for Success

By Tammy

One look at the latest kitchen design magazines demonstrates that kitchen countertops are not the "monolithic" plane - one design over all surfaces - that they once were. Islands, work tops and bar tops all showcase different textures and finishes. Balancing pattern, scale and color should all be considered. Use the same logic as when you're picking out a new outfit: use large patterns in showcase areas, accent with contrasting or coordinating color with less pattern/movement.

Not sure where to start with your surfacing needs? Bring your ideas to life with the new Wilsonart HD Room Visualizer. It is virtually amazing if I don't say so myself (okay, I had a hand in bringing the online tool to life so let me know if you have any suggestions to make it better).

Follow these three (3) easy steps:

1.  Select a Room
2.  Style Your Room
3.  Finish!

Go ahead and click here to start visualizing your kitchen remodel today!

And don't forget to share your works of art.  We'd love to see them and you never know, you just might be the next HGTV Design Star in the making.  I love that show, don't you?

Young mom asks for design help

by Gale Steves

Seldom do I meet the perfect demographic, but then I became acquainted with Barbara, a young, stay-at-home mother with two kids under the age of six. She apologizes that she is not working full-time, (Hers, in my book, is a full-time job of mothering). However, she volunteers for at least community charity and is an active member of her church.

Some might categorize her as "Gen Y," but I see her as a Frugal Mom. As the family budget shrank, so did her travel and entertainment outside of the house. In fact, her home has become even more important as a gathering place for family and friends. Barbara admits to being an online coupon clipper as well as often refers friends to internet sites and deals. Most of this happens when the kiddies are tucked in bed, after 8 PM.

Since the home has become her focus, she is making a good pennywise step in replacing her countertops in her kitchen as a baby step for making a larger color change in the kitchen. She calls it her "everything" room.

I met her because she wanted help making a selection. She has ruled out granite and stone as too costly, but I pointed her to the new laminate alternatives that mimic travertine and natural stone, an upscale look she fancied from design blogs she follows.  We settled on Golden Travertine premium laminate from Wilsonart because it was a mid-range color, which would not show as much dirt as a very light color or as a very dark one. That was the easy part. . . now she faces which edge treatment is the most kid-friendly.  Barbara will do her online research and read reviews before making up her mind.

I have full confidence that she has made a good decision, and the downtime in her kitchen is really a few hours of inconvenience and disruption when the new counter surface is installed for a dramatic transformation. The Frugal Mom wins again!

Jeannett & Andy (Up)Date Night - Part 3

Here's the big reveal from our intrepid Wilsonart (Up)Date Night couple...hold on, it's going to be amazing!

Inspiration Reveal (am I ready for this?)

By Tammy

It's time for a kitchen style update.  It's an exciting time but a nerve racking time as well.  I really didn't think there would be so many decisions along the way, or shall I say, second guessing.  Yes, that's what I want...  Hmm, maybe I should think about it.  It's a bit overwhelming and stressful but now I'm starting to see a clear vision.  It all started with a table runner and grew from there.  I found this bright, fun table runner from World Market to drive the color inspiration.  Yep, that's exactly what I want: A fresh breath of spring air for all seasons.

Tree of Life - World Market

This is a great way to start any redecorating project.  Find your inspiration and take cues from it.  I hear my stylist now as I type, "It's kind of like a bubble chart where you have your center bubble (or main idea), and then you branch off with other ideas.  The key is to make sure your idea is still related to the main idea."

I really want a fresh and fun look that isn't cookie-cutter.  To accomplish this, we are creating a classic base to the decor and adding in the eclectic, fresh and fun with pops of bright accent colors and accessories that give an American Industrial flare.  "That flare is key to this decorating scheme because it adds texture for the eye and a time worn look in small doses."  Keep in mind these are all design elements that I'm gathering.  I'll be sure to post a finished product reveal when it's all put together.  Will there be light at the end of the tunnel?

Turquoise is such a fun, vibrant color that I've always wanted to incorporate into my renovation.  I have the perfect solution.  I'm painting my kitchy breakfast nook table.

Introducing Reflecting Pool!

This is where I lost my husband.  These metal chairs have an American Industrial look that will pair nicely with the kitchy table.  But don't worry, I've shown him many pinboards and now he's totally on board!  The Delta chair has classic lines (similar to the Emeco Navy Chair, but without the hefty price tag).  I'm still not quite sure about my bar chairs yet. Hmm...pondering... so if you have any suggestions, please leave me a comment.

Delta Chair - Crate & Barrel

I'm saying goodbye to drab walls.  Here's a look at what's to come.

Aqua-Sphere - Sherwin Williams

Moonraker - Sherwin Williams

Accessories!  Accessories!  Accessories!  Looking for them.  But in the meantime, these classic glass jars will give me a bit of sparkle and add vintage appeal.  And adding this gorgeous green will add that "pop" of color with accessories.

Glass Jars - Crate & Barrel

Apples and Pears - Benjamin Moore

And to see some of the elements put together...absolutely breathtaking!  What do you think?

(UP)Date Night Part 2: "The Renovation" with the Gibson Family

Today's post is from Jeannett Gibson over at Life Rearranged, who is undergoing a kitchen transformation with her family and has been nice enough to share her experience here on Lean Remodeler. Here's the latest installment of our (Up)Date Night video series, where you'll see the dust is flying!

Fun with Color

By Tammy

Yep, the home remodel continues.  Finally, all of the carpet downstairs is removed and the gorgeous wood floors are down.  And now the fun begins! 

When we built our house we had always envisioned the third bedroom to be a temporary guest bedroom, then a nursery.  Well, life throws you curves and plans don’t always go your way.  So now, it’s a “play” room for my daughter, which is conveniently located right across the hall from her very pinkalicious bedroom.  What is it with girls and pink? 

The original neutral color still adorns the walls in the play room, so before we move all the stuff back into it, our plan is to make it a study / media / hang out room for a very soon to be 7 year-old and friends.  So starting with pretty much a blank canvas, why not paint the room?
 

Here’s where you can help – why not let my readers Vote!  And recommend any items or tips to transform this blank canvas into a room that any child/tween would want to hang out in.  

My friend and co-worker over at See: Create: Be Happy has been helping me during the remodel process.  She’s a product designer at Wilsonart and really knows my likes and dislikes.  We thought this would be so much fun!  Here are four (4) color palettes we have chosen:

Don't you just love these names?

A.  Mysterious Mauve SW6262; Ruby Shade SW6572 and Refresh SW6751

B.  Intuitive SW6017; Gleeful SW6709 and Reflecting Pool SW6486

C.  Restful SW6458; Apples & Pears BM395 and Beguiling Mauve SW6269

D.  Valentine SW6587; Aloe SW6464 and Springtime SW6708

Kids living with color…what more can you ask!

Win a Ticket to Type-A from The Lean Remodeler

The Type-A Parent Conference is coming up on June 23, and The Lean Remodeler team will be there in Asheville, North Carolina to discuss blogging and home design. And luckily for one of you, we have an extra ticket that we are giving away!

The deadline for entries is June 9th, and here's all you need to do to be eligible to win a ticket to the Type-A Parent Conference:

1. "Like" the Wilsonart Facebook page.
2. Look for the Facebook post about the contest and "Like" the post.
3. Tell us your favorite Madura pattern and how you would incorporate it into your home and leave your answer in the comments section below.

The Madura series of premium Wilsonart Laminate was released this year and is the newest addition to their line (see a fantastic install here). These Madura patterns are perfect for homeowners searching for the perfect combination of earth colors that coordinate with a variety of cabinet wood-tones and stainless-steel appliances:

Madura Pearl: A light, warm white with accents in peach and pearl-grey. Coordinates well with light wood, painted cabinets and dark contrasting woods like mahogany and walnut.

Madura Pearl

Madura Gold: Carries lighter values of golden beige with accents of sienna brown, soft grey and black. Gold and shards of grey are trendy colors that go well with all cabinetry wood-tones.

Madura Gold

Madura Garnet: Carries mid-tones of mahogany with accents in garnet, soft greys and black. Includes light areas with soft detail. Goes great with stainless steel and black appliances.

Madura Garnet

Madura Citrine: A light, yellow gold coloration with warm white and amber accents. Includes soft greys and black. Works well with maple and cherry cabinets in brown and spice stains.

Madura Citrine

Just choose your favorite Madura pattern and let us know how you would use it in your home in the comments section below!

(Up)Date Night Part 1: Get to Know the Gibsons

Today's post is from Jeannett Gibson over at Life Rearranged, who is undergoing a kitchen transformation with her family and has been nice enough to share her experience here on Lean Remodeler. You can follow the transformation on the latest installment of our (Up)Date Night video series.

When my husband and I first walked into the kitchen with our realtor, visions of an update immediately sprang to mind.

I saw painted cabinets, fun hardware, pretty pendant lighting and gorgeous countertops.

I knew upon first look that the kitchen had great bones and amazing potential...it was just a little dated.

And a lot not my style.

Don't even get me started on the white tile with white grout. Who decided that would be a good idea?! I would love to meet them.

And then hand them the bottle of bleach and toothbrush that I've spent waaaaaay too much time with over the last three years.

But it was well designed and nice and roomy for our quickly expanding brood.

It just needed a little spruce up.

And a ton of elbow grease.

But the truth is, that's our style.

Andy and I are the quintessential DIYers.

We grumble and moan through the process, but we absolutely love the finished product 100 times more simply because we know that WE did the work.

Somehow, sitting on our patio and looking out at the landscaped yard is so much more satisfying knowing that it was our sweaty selves who laid that sod in the summer sun. (That's our friend Jon that we conned into helping. Note the baby in the pack and play!)

While we had certainly done our fair share of projects together, the sheer workload involved in painting cabinetry WHILE parenting three kids 3 and under...

...well, that made me break into a sweat more than once.

In fact, it may have induced a mild panic attack at one point. Just maybe.

The reality is, that while adults can wait until 9 p.m. to eat dinner (take out, naturally) after the work is done and cleaned up, twin one year olds and a three year old aren't exactly so patient.

And they can't put themselves to bed.

Or even wipe their own....

noses.

And the littlest still has therapy three times a week.

And the husband has a business trip on the other side of the country sometime in the middle of this mad dash rush.

And...well...life doesn't pause while you're trying to knock out a fairly labor intensive project.

Painting...particularly something as large scale as kitchen cabinetry...isn't exactly something you can stop mid-brush to make a peanut butter and jelly sandwich.

And little sticky fingers are certainly unwelcome anywhere NEAR drying paint.

Luckily, I knew the pros would be installing the countertops. So that was one task off our plate.

Knowing that this project had high Bicker Potential, Andy and I tried to stave off some of the tension by talking about it ahead of time.

Late one night, after the littles were in bed, our feet up on the coffee table, hot fudge sundaes in our laps, our conversation went a little something like this:

"This project is going to be insane. None of it is going to go as smoothly as we would like. So let's try and just go with the flow and not hate each other at the end of it."

"Deal."

While that may seem simplistic and silly, it really has helped so far.

We just knew that this wasn't going to be a project reminiscent of our pre-three-kids-in-two-years days where we could work uninterrupted and for as long as we we wanted/needed.

And somehow, being open and upfront about lowering our expectations...and laughing that surely someone will tip over a gallon of paint at some point...is helping.

Even in the planning, as I try to order hardware that I can't seem to find in the quantities I need...or trying out 15 different shades of white (who knew?!)...or trying to figure out how to still make meals during it all...

We're going with the flow.

We're making it work.

We're trying to laugh and not freak out.

Even though the temptation is certainly there.

Hopefully that feeling of relative flexibility and calm extends as we're actually in the trenches of kitchen updating.

No kitchen is worth strife.

But it's certainly worth the elbow grease.