Should I Choose an All-Black Kitchen?

All-black kitchens have become increasingly popular in recent years as homeowners and designers look to create dramatic and stylish spaces.

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While some may think an all-black kitchen could be dreary, it can actually create a stunning and sophisticated ambiance. Read on as we explore the benefits of all-black kitchens and how to create one that perfectly suits your home.

An all-black kitchen can make a bold statement, especially if the rest of the house has a lighter color scheme. The all-black look can convey a sense of luxury and glamour, giving the space a high-end feel. A monochromatic palette can also give the kitchen a cohesive and polished look, creating a sense of continuity throughout the room. It is important to note, however, that an all-black kitchen may not be for everyone, especially those who prefer a brighter and more cheerful atmosphere.

Lighting is also crucial in an all-black kitchen. As black surfaces can absorb light, it is essential to incorporate adequate lighting to prevent the room from feeling too dark or gloomy. Task lighting under cabinets and pendant lights above the island or table can add both functionality and style to the space. Natural light is also a must, so if possible, it’s a good idea to incorporate windows or skylights. Our black high gloss acrylic surface will reflect light, however.

Also, keep in mind that all-black cabinets show more dirt, dents, and scratches. So, more frequent cleaning and touch-ups may be required.

Finally, it is important to consider the size of your kitchen when choosing an all-black color scheme. In a smaller kitchen, an all-black design can make the space feel cramped. However, in a larger kitchen, black can make the space feel more expansive and grand.

Cabinet Door Styles: A Closer Look

Showplace offers many beautiful cabinet door styles to fit a variety of design tastes. We’ll take a closer look at each style to help you choose what’s right for you!

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If variety is what you’re looking for, Showplace has that and more! With a selection of at least 46 door styles in Contemporary, Traditional, and Transitional styles, you are sure to find the right look for you!

There are several “families” of door styles in our collection with a variety of construction methods. From doors made of three or five parts, or flat or raised center panel doors, to classic applied molding or contemporary slab doors, there is something for everyone.

Villa Argento

3 or 5-Piece

Most of our doors are constructed with five pieces, consisting of two styles and rails, and one center panel.

We also offer a 3-piece door (shown above) called “Villa.” This unique door, constructed with two styles and a middle panel, brings a trendy, contemporary look to any space.

Covington Cherry Natural

Flat/Raised Panel

Most of our door styles are either constructed with a flat or raised (shown above) center panel, but some are available with either option.

In many cases, flat panel doors have a veneered plywood center panel, while the raised center panel doors are made of solid hardwood.

Savannah Paint Grade Simpli Gray

Applied Molding

When you’re looking for a more classic look with decorative flair, our collection of doors with detailed molding applied to the inside of the door frame is the look for you.

We offer a variety of molding styles that range from simple square edges to eloquent and classy.

Milan Maple Natural

Slab

Contemporary design is where simple, sleek styles are most popular. Our selection of slab doors are made from MDF material covered with veneer and solid wood edgeband.

A couple of newer door styles, built with louvers or kerfs, give you even more choices in the ever-changing world of design.

Lane inset

Kerfed

The contemporary “Lane” door style is one of our kerfed doors with vertical grooves (kerfs) cut into the slab door. (Shown inset with frame)

cabana inset

Louvered

The “Cabana” door is a louvered door built with angled slats. This stylish door has plenty of character and gives a spa or island vibe.

Be sure to read our blog about how humidity affects multi-piece doors and what our warranty covers.

5 Kitchen Layout Ideas to Elevate Your Space

A kitchen is not just a place to cook and store food, but it is also a space where you can gather with family and friends.

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It’s important to choose a kitchen layout that not only functions well but also reflects your personal style and enhances the overall look of your home. If you’re looking for a modern kitchen layout, here are five ideas to inspire you.

Open Concept Kitchen

Open Concept

An open concept kitchen is a popular choice for modern homes, as it provides a spacious and airy feel to the room. The open concept kitchen allows for an easy flow between the kitchen and the living or dining area, making it ideal for entertaining guests or cooking with family. You can also incorporate a large island with seating for a casual dining option.

U-Shaped White Kitchen

U-Shaped Kitchen

A U-shaped kitchen is a great option if you want to maximize storage and counter space. The U-shaped design provides plenty of cabinetry and countertop space, making it ideal for busy kitchens. The U-shaped design also creates a closed-off area, making it ideal for privacy while cooking.

L-Shaped Kitchen

L-Shaped Kitchen

An L-shaped kitchen is another popular modern kitchen layout, as it provides a functional work area with plenty of counter space. The L-shaped design is ideal for small kitchens as it provides an efficient work triangle. You can also incorporate an island or a breakfast bar into the design for added counter space and seating.

Galley Kitchen

Galley Kitchen

A galley kitchen is a narrow and long kitchen design that provides plenty of counter space and storage. This design is ideal for small kitchens, and it allows for an efficient work triangle. You can also add an island to the design for extra counter space and storage.

One other layout option is the peninsula kitchen. A peninsula kitchen is similar to an L-shaped kitchen, but with a peninsula that extends out from the wall. The peninsula provides additional counter space and seating, making it ideal for casual dining. This layout is also a great option for small kitchens as it maximizes counter space while still providing an open feel.

Choosing the right kitchen layout is crucial to creating a functional and stylish kitchen. Whether you choose an open concept kitchen, a U-shaped kitchen, an L-shaped kitchen, a galley kitchen, or a peninsula kitchen, these modern kitchen layout ideas can help you create a space that meets your needs and enhances the overall look of your home. So, pick the layout that best fits your lifestyle, and start creating the kitchen of your dreams.

Do You Need Toe Kick Trim or Molding in Your Kitchen?

Whether or not you need toe kick molding in your kitchen depends on your personal preferences and the specific needs of your kitchen. We recommend it and here’s why.

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If you want a polished and finished look for your kitchen, or if you need a space to rest your feet when working at the countertops, then toe kick trim or molding is a great choice. But there’s more to it. Read on for more…

What is Toe Kick Trim or Molding?

Showplace toe kick trim is a strip of veneered plywood that is installed at the base of your cabinets – after they are installed in your home – where they meet the floor. It is 4-1/2 inches high and 1/4 inch thick. This is applied to cabinets with the standard recessed toe kick as shown below.

You can also use specific base molding to trim out specific areas, rather than just the thin trim strips, to add a decorative flair to cabinets. This is typically applied to cabinets with flush toes (see below) and flush end panels.

No matter the application, toe kick trim or molding is installed around the perimeter of your cabinets, providing a seamless transition between the cabinets and the floor. This helps to hide any gaps or imperfections, and it gives your kitchen a more polished and finished look.

Standard base cabinet toe kick area
Flush cabinet toe kick

Why is Toe Kick Molding Important?

In addition to making your cabinets look even better, toe kick molding serves several important functions in the kitchen.

  • It provides a space for your feet to rest when you’re working at your kitchen countertops.
  • Toe kick molding helps to protect the base of your cabinets from damage. When you’re working in the kitchen, it’s common to bump the bottom of your cabinets with your feet.

How to Choose the Right Colors for a Two-Toned Kitchen

A two-toned kitchen is a popular and stylish choice, allowing you to add visual interest to your space while also making a bold statement. However, choosing the right colors for your two-toned kitchen can be a challenge.

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With so many options available, it can be difficult to know where to start. Here are some tips to help you choose the right colors for your two-toned kitchen.

Kitchen with window by sink

Consider your existing décor

Before choosing your kitchen colors, take a look at the rest of your home’s décor. The colors you choose for your kitchen should complement the rest of your home, so think about the color scheme and overall style of your living spaces when making your decision.

kitchen with two colors

Consider the Mood for Your Space

The colors you choose for your kitchen can have a big impact on the overall mood of the space. If you want a warm and inviting kitchen, choose warm colors like browns, yellows, and oranges. If you want a more modern and sleek look, consider cool colors like blues and greens.

Floor Plan

Consider the Layout of Your Space

The layout of your kitchen can also play a role in the colors you choose. For example, if you have a large open kitchen, you may want to choose bold, contrasting colors to create a statement. However, if your kitchen is small or has limited natural light, consider lighter and more neutral colors to help the space feel more open and airy.

Also, color psychology can be a useful tool when choosing your kitchen colors. For example, blue is often associated with calmness and tranquility, while red can create a more energetic and dynamic feel. Consider the mood you want to create in your kitchen and choose colors that reflect that mood.

Of course, one of the most important things to do is get color samples from your local dealer’s showroom and paint store. When you’ve narrowed down your color choices, it’s important to see how they look in the room itself. Our dealers offer color chips to help you narrow down your cabinet colors; but before making your final decision, it’s important to order a sample door in your top color choices.

Place color samples in the kitchen and observe how they look at different times of day and under different lighting conditions. See our blog about how light affects cabinet color.

By following these tips, you can choose colors that will make your kitchen look beautiful, feel warm and inviting, and reflect your personal style.

The Beauty of Hickory: The Most Variably Grained and Colored Wood

If you’re looking for a wood species that offers a wide range of graining and color consistency, hickory should be at the top of your list.

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This versatile and beautiful wood has become a popular choice for any room in your home, and for good reason. With its unique graining, natural variation, and warm, inviting color, hickory is a wood species that truly stands out.

One of the defining features of hickory is its variability. Below are two areas in which hickory’s characteristics can vary, providing an unexpected beauty with each cabinet.

Characteristics

Hickory Pampas cabinets in a warehouse

Grain

The graining in hickory can range from straight and fine, to wild and wavy, and everything in between. This variability means that each piece of hickory wood is truly one-of-a-kind, and it gives the wood a natural and organic look that is difficult to replicate.

Vanity in hickory wood

Color

The heartwood of hickory can range from light to dark colors, with a reddish hue that adds warmth to the wood. Sapwood is usually lighter in color and can have a yellow or creamy hue. These color variations within a single piece of wood are part of what makes hickory unique and beautiful.

Hickory is a strong and durable wood, making it a great choice for high-traffic areas like flooring or furniture. It’s also a popular choice for cabinetry and millwork, as its natural variation and character make it a great addition to any kitchen or bathroom.

Hickory stained storage cabinets in the back office of our Harrisburg showroom.
This photo demonstrates the variability of stains on hickory. Sparrow finish shown.

Also, whether you prefer a natural finish that highlights the wood’s natural graining and character, or a stained finish that adds a pop of color to your space, hickory is a versatile wood that can be customized to fit your style.

If you’re looking for a beautiful and character-rich addition to your cabinetry or millwork, hickory is a great choice.

Rustic Woods: Add Warmth and Charm to Your Home

Rustic woods have become a popular trend in home design for their natural beauty and ability to add warmth and charm to any space. Whether you’re looking to create a cozy cabin feel in your living room or bring a touch of nature into your modern kitchen, rustic woods are the perfect solution.

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Rustic wood cabinets add warmth and texture to a space, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere. This style is particularly well-suited for kitchens that are open and spacious and is becoming increasingly popular in both contemporary and traditional kitchens.

From rich alder to light-toned hickory, there is a type of rustic wood to fit every design aesthetic. Rustic woods also have a unique character that comes from their natural imperfections, knots, and graining, making each cabinet or flooring truly one-of-a-kind.

Another great thing about rustic woods is their versatility. They work well in both modern and traditional settings, and can be paired with a variety of other design elements, from sleek stainless steel to cozy textiles. No matter the look you prefer, rustic woods can fit right in.

Bathroom vanity in rustic hickory

Characteristics

Rustic wood is known for its natural imperfections, knots, and graining. These unique features add depth and character to the wood, making each piece truly one-of-a-kind. Rustic wood also tends to have a more muted color palette, with a mix of light and dark tones that add depth to the space.

Keep in mind that we are unable to control knot amount or placement or grain or color consistency, and any occurrence of these natural imperfections are not considered warrantable.

Bathroom vanity in rustic alder

Versatility

Rustic wood can be paired with a variety of other materials, making it a versatile choice for kitchen or bath cabinetry. For example, you can pair rustic wood cabinets with a sleek, modern countertop for a chic, contemporary look. Or you can pair them with a natural stone backsplash for a more traditional, warm feel.

dual bathroom sink with brown cabinetry and white countertops

Durability

Rustic wood is also known for its durability and strength. Whether you choose alder or hickory, rustic wood cabinets can stand up to the wear and tear of a busy home.

Rustic Wood

Wall cabinet with Water Glass in upper doors

Color Variations

This cabinet is finished in our cashew stain on rustic alder. Notice the light and dark areas? The inconsistencies are acceptable and would not be replaced as per the terms of our warranty.

Rustic Alder cabinet

Knots and Color

This cabinet is finished in our Driftwood stain on rustic alder. Some would prefer to have more knots or to have knots in other locations than near a door profile or a possible hardware location. Remember that we are unable to control knot placement or amount.

Rustic hickory cabinet

Color and Knots

This beautiful cabinet is finished in Tawny stain on rustic hickory. You may notice inconsistency in the color and number of knots per door. Random knots and color variations add character and are acceptable.

Rustic hickory cabinet

Variety

This cabinet showcases the beauty of rustic hickory with our Natural finish. The variety of wood tones and the random placement provide a gorgeous, rustic look.

Additionally, there is no limit to size, number, or location of knots on a cabinet or door part. The quality requirement is that a knot is sound and completely filled in. The images below are acceptable.

Rustic wood cabinets are a popular choice for kitchens due to their warmth, versatility, durability, and unique character. Whether you’re looking for a traditional or contemporary look, rustic wood cabinets can add natural beauty to your kitchen, making it feel cozy and inviting.

Smart Ways to Save Money on a Kitchen Remodel

Are you planning on remodeling your kitchen in the near future? If budget is on your mind, we have some ways to save money.

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There are many things you can do to save money on your next remodel project. Your designer may have other ideas, but here are just a few ways to get more for your money when you begin your kitchen refresh.

Before we get to the “Do’s” in budget-friendly remodeling, here is an important “Don’t.”

You’ve heard the saying, “You get what you pay for.” That is certainly true when it comes to cabinetry. No matter what brand you choose, make sure that your cabinets are constructed with high quality materials and methods. In other words, don’t base your decision solely on price. You may regret your decision after just a couple years.

Showplace Cabinetry offers several cabinet lines to meet your style and budget needs. All of our framed lines are KCMA-certified and meet all construction quality requirements. So, you know you’re getting a great product with a limited lifetime warranty to give you additional ease of mind.

Now, the “Do’s” for a successful, budget-friendly remodel project…

White kitchen cabinetse

Keep it Simple

Simple layout and design ideas can help you save money.

  • Use larger cabinets rather than smaller cabinets to reduce the work for the installer, saving time and money.
  • Leave space between the wall cabinets and the ceiling to avoid the need for trim molding (This is a modern look, too!).
  • Use flat panel doors in your design to save money and provide a simple, clean look.
  • Avoid costly cabinet modifications.
  • Use floating shelves rather than book cases or cabinets to save money and gives you a more spacious look.
  • Avoid moving utilities if possible.
"DIY" on dice

Get Creative

You can do things to save money and stretch your dollar even further!

  • Use laminate countertops instead of stone or quartz. Laminate tops are very durable and have many color and pattern options.
  • Do as much of the labor and material running as you can to avoid charges by contractors.
  • If possible, try selling your old cabinets and using that towards your project. The buyer may even be willing to remove the cabinets for you to save you time and money.
Floor Plan

Other Ideas

Some other ways to help you pay for your remodel project are:

  • Ask your designer to create more than one layout option to see what it takes to get the best price and value.
  • Ask your designer if they offer low-interest financing to allow you to get more done.

If you have a small budget, consider refacing your existing cabinets with Showplace Renew. This is a cost-effective way to keep your cabinets and make them look new with materials to reface the cabinet frames, and then replace the doors and drawers/drawer fronts and add other accessories to refresh your kitchen space and make it not only beautiful, but even more functional. Check with your dealer if they offer Showplace Renew products. Read about Showplace Renew in our blog.

Thanks to Curt Johnson, designer at Showplace Cabinetry Design Center in Sioux Falls, SD for contributing to this blog.

Showplace Renew: Cabinet Refacing Products to Save You Money

If your remodel budget is too small to do everything you’d like to do, save BIG money by refacing your original cabinets with Showplace Renew! Find out more below.

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If your creative vision accepts the basic layout of your room, Showplace Renew cabinet refacing is a smart way to go.

What is Cabinet Refacing?

When you reface with Renew, the old cabinet doors go away. You get new doors and drawer headers, with limited lifetime warranty quality. You also get fine veneers finished to match, applied directly to the face frames of your cabinets. In other words, Renew gives anything external a fresh new face. Renew also offers matching end panels, appliance faces, and anything else in the vast range of Showplace offerings. 

In fact, this is what sets Renew apart from most other refacing options. With Renew refacing you do have the option to add completely new Showplace cabinets and accents to your design. Add a new island or peninsula. Add a range hood. Or even take out a wall and extend the kitchen design. Showplace Renew gives you this unique and valuable freedom.

Is Cabinet Refacing Right for Me and My Home?

Of course, that’s a question only you can answer, but here are some guidelines.

Gray gloss bathroom cabinets

Sturdy Cabinets

First of all, your existing cabinetry must be structurally sound. If it’s not, it really makes no sense to give a new face to a wobbly or worn-out structure.

Shows dark vinyl flooring with white cabinets along the wall with a neutral brown island

Meet Your Needs?

Just as important as cabinet integrity, does the basic layout of your kitchen meet your needs? Today’s trends include an open floor plan. If your current kitchen is closed off and you want to open it up, you will most likely have to remove a wall or two and add some entirely new cabinets. That means Renew’s highly-flexible nature is uniquely suited to your project.

shows royal blue under sink cabinets with silver handles

Practical

There are also practical factors to consider. A refacing project often can be completed much quicker than a full remodel, with less disruption to your life. If that’s important to you, Renew is a great choice.

If you’ve recently done other upgrades to the kitchen, like new counter tops or flooring, refacing lets you retain them. And if you’re hoping to sell your home soon, Renew gives a kitchen or bath an entirely updated look, at a lower total project cost that does not bite off too much precious equity.

However, a remodel can be a big, complicated job. If you’re going to “DIY” or work with a “big-box” home center, all the stress and hidden pitfalls are yours and yours alone. (And that’s especially true if you’re adding new cabinets or accents to the mix.) But when you work with a Showplace Renew dealer, their substantial experience is on your side. They know what to plan for, what to avoid, and how to get everything done with the least disruption to your life.