Home Builder Developer - Interior Renovation and Design

While the frigid temperatures and ghastly windchill of the winter season may entice you to cuddle up in bed and place another frozen pizza in the oven, restaurant dining doesnt have to be restricted by the unfriendly weather. Many restaurants around Springfield have heated patios available throughout the colder months of the year, allowing guests to enjoy the aesthetic and experience of dining outside all year long.

Vantage Rooftop Lounge & Conservatory

Located at 260 E. McDaniel St., the Vantage Rooftop Lounge & Conservatory offers private heated igloos for guests to partake in the rooftop experience during the winter. Available to reserve for a time slot of one hour and 45 minutes, the heated igloos provide a private area for guests to enjoy their food and drinks with the view of downtown Springfield. Visit rooftopvantage.com to learn more.

Uncle Bentlys Pub and Lounge

Uncle Bentlys Pub has a full-service bar, pool tables, darts and shuffleboard. For guests who want a breath of fresh air or to enjoy their drink outside, Uncle Bentlys Pub has a heated patio open year-round. Located at 4123 S. National Ave., Uncle Bentlys Pub does not sell food but outside food is allowed. Visit unclebentlyspublounge.com for more information.

Galloway Grill

Located at 4211 S. Lone Pine Ave., Galloway Grill provides its guests with a heated outdoor area with heaters placed on the ceiling above tables. Winter weather doesnt have to stop you from enjoying a cold beer and a hamburger on Galloway Grills heated patio. Learn more at gallowaygrill.com.

Skullys Ramen

While the patio area is not enclosed, Skullys Ramen keeps their guests warm with a fire pit during the winter season. Including ramen, wok and wings, Skullys Ramen offers a variety of food options to enjoy in their heated patio area. Skullys Ramen is located at 1427 E. Cherry St. Visit skullysramen.square.site to learn more.

Team Taco

Team Taco, located at 1454 E. Cherry St., has a covered, heated patio partially enclosed by shades with available seating. The heated patio allows guests to comfortably wait for their carryout order or to enjoy outdoor dining during the winter months. Be sure to check their social media for updates on closing times changed due to weather. For more information about Team Taco, visit teamtacosgf.com.

There is no shortage of heated outdoor seating offered by Springfield restaurants. Try a new cocktail at Vantage Rooftop Lounge & Conservatory or satisfy your taco craving at Team Taco while enjoying the outdoor dining experience without suffering from the freezing temperatures.

Follow Jenna Murray on Twitter, @Jenna_Murray5

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Springfield restaurants offer outdoor dining during winter with heated patios - Standard Online

Our Top Picks

We've researched patio loveseats to bring you a list of the best options available. A patio loveseat offers a comfortable spot for two people to relax and enjoy the outdoors. We focused on comfort, durability, and style when selecting our top picks. We chose loveseats with plush cushions and sturdy materials that can withstand harsh weather conditions. We also considered modern and traditional designs to cater to different tastes. Our choices were based on customer reviews, ensuring high-quality products. Before purchasing a patio loveseat, consider measuring the space and maintenance requirements. Choose one of our top-ranking patio loveseats to enhance your outdoor living experience.

Imagine enjoying your morning coffee on this generously sized Best Choice Products Outdoor Patio Loveseat Sofa, designed to comfortably accommodate two people. Made from durable wicker and featuring adjustable feet, this sofa is perfect for any outdoor space. With a 550lb weight capacity, it's built to last and withstand the elements. Plus, with two accent pillows included, it's a surprisingly easy way to add style and comfort to your patio or deck. And the best part? This high-quality conversation set is remarkably affordable, making it the perfect choice for anyone looking for value without sacrificing quality.

Rated 9.8 based on 10

JPOST

Pros

Modular design for flexibility, Adjustable feet for stability, High weight capacity

Cons

Assembly is quite challenging

Imagine relaxing on your patio with a loved one in the Kozyard Cozy Two Rocking Patio Love Seats Glider Swing Bench. This surprisingly easy to assemble and generously sized bench offers the perfect blend of comfort and durability, with a sturdy frame and soft cushion. The smooth gliding motion adds a touch of tranquility to any outdoor space. And with its unbeatable value and affordability, you won't find a better option for enjoying the great outdoors with someone special. So why wait? Get yours today and start creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Rated 9.6 based on 10

JPOST

Pros

Sturdy frame, Soft cushion, Rocking motion

Cons

Assembly instructions lack precision

More high-quality than your average patio furniture, the Wisteria Lane Furniture Patio Loveseat Black/Light Grey is a luxurious addition to any outdoor space. This all-weather, two-seater sofa couch is crafted from durable black metal and comes complete with light grey cushions for added comfort. Generously sized and surprisingly easy to assemble, this loveseat is the perfect choice for anyone looking to upgrade their outdoor seating area. And with its unbeatable value and affordability, it's no wonder that the Wisteria Lane Aluminum Loveseat is quickly becoming a fan favorite among homeowners everywhere.

Rated 9.5 based on 10

JPOST

Pros

Durable aluminum frame, All-weather cushions, Comfortable seating

Cons

Cushions lack secure ties.

Step into the ultimate outdoor relaxation experience with the Wisteria Lane Furniture Patio Loveseat Gray. This all-weather 2-seater sofa couch is perfect for those who crave comfort and style. The generously sized dark grey cushions provide a soft and cozy feel, while the gray metal frame adds a modern touch to your outdoor space. Despite its premium quality, this loveseat is surprisingly easy to maintain and won't break the bank. So why settle for less when you can have the best? Upgrade your outdoor living with the Wisteria Lane Patio Furniture Aluminum Loveseat today!

Rated 9.3 based on 10

JPOST

Pros

Powder-coated finish for longevity, Comfortable cushions, Stylish widen design

Cons

May not fit all decor

Meet our latest outdoor loveseat that will elevate your patio experience! The Solaste Outdoor Patio Loveseat Aluminum Furniture Sofa is not only stylish and contemporary, but it is also designed to withstand any weather conditions. The generously sized cushions provide ultimate comfort, while the all-weather metal frame ensures durability and longevity. This loveseat is surprisingly easy to assemble and maintain, making it a great value for your money. Don't settle for mediocre outdoor furniture when you can have the best with Solaste!

Rated 9.1 based on 10

JPOST

Pros

Wear and fade resistance, Contemporary design, Rust-proof

Introducing the ovios Patio Loveseat Sofa Denim Blue, the perfect addition to your outdoor living space. This high-back wicker rattan loveseat couch is all-weather and built to last. The denim blue color adds a touch of style to any backyard, porch, or yard. The generously sized seat comfortably accommodates two people, making it perfect for intimate conversations and relaxation. The surprising ease of assembly and affordable price make it an excellent value for those looking for quality outdoor furniture. Upgrade your outdoor experience with the Ovios Patio Sofa Loveseat.

Rated 8.9 based on 10

JPOST

Pros

High back for comfortable seating, Stylish wicker rattan design, Easy to assemble

Cons

Instructions are quite hard to read

While we're focusing on creating an outdoor oasis, the Signature Design by Ashley Clare View Patio Loveseat is a must-have. Made from high-quality eucalyptus wood, this loveseat is both durable and stylish, with a coastal vibe that will transport you to the beach. The generously sized cushions are surprisingly easy to clean, and the neutral beige color will match any decor. Plus, at such an affordable price, you can add extra pieces from the Clare View collection to complete your outdoor living space. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the view with this beautiful and practical loveseat.

Rated 8.6 based on 10

JPOST

Pros

Coastal design, Sturdy eucalyptus wood, Hardware and tools included

Experience ultimate comfort and style with the Flamaker Patio Loveseat Furniture Set Beige 2 Piece. This 2-piece set features a corner sofa and armless sofa with padded soft cushions, all-weather PE rattan, and a durable frame that is built to last. The generously sized seating is perfect for lounging with family and friends, while the stylish design adds a touch of elegance to any outdoor space. Surprisingly easy to assemble, this set is an affordable investment that will transform your patio into a luxurious oasis. Don't settle for anything less than the best - choose Flamaker for unbeatable value and quality.

Rated 8.4 based on 10

JPOST

Pros

Suitable for outdoor use, PE rattan material, Padded soft cushion for comfort

Cons

Shorter than other loveseats

Q: How do I choose the right patio loveseat for my outdoor space?

A: When choosing a patio loveseat, consider the size and style of your outdoor space. Measure the area to ensure that the loveseat will fit comfortably. Also, think about the materials and design that will complement your existing outdoor decor. Look for durable materials such as wicker or metal, and opt for weather-resistant cushions to ensure longevity.

Q: How do I maintain my patio loveseat?

A: To keep your patio loveseat looking great, clean it regularly with a damp cloth and mild soap. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that could damage the finish. If your loveseat has cushions, store them indoors in a dry place when not in use to prevent moisture damage. Additionally, consider covering your loveseat during inclement weather to protect it from the elements.

Q: Can I use my patio loveseat indoors?

A: Yes, patio loveseats can be used indoors as well as outdoors. They can be a great addition to a sunroom, screened porch, or other indoor/outdoor space. Keep in mind that some patio loveseats may have a more casual or rustic design that may not be suitable for all indoor decor styles. When using a patio loveseat indoors, consider adding accent pillows or throws to make it feel more cozy and inviting.

Q: What materials are common for patio loveseats?

A:Popular patio loveseat materials include wicker, metal, and wood. Opt for weather-resistant options to enhance durability and protect against the elements. This ensures your outdoor seating not only looks stylish but also withstands various weather conditions for long-lasting enjoyment.

Q: Are patio loveseats easy to assemble?

A:Assembling patio loveseats is typically hassle-free. Most models provide straightforward instructions and require minimal assembly. Enjoy a stress-free setup, allowing you to quickly and easily transform your outdoor space into a comfortable and inviting haven without the need for complicated assembly processes.

After conducting a thorough review of several patio loveseats, we can confidently say that there are a variety of attractive options on the market. From wicker and all-weather rattan to sleek aluminum designs, there is a style for every taste. Additionally, many of these loveseats feature comfortable cushions and other thoughtful details such as retractable side trays, footstools with storage, and more. Overall, we believe that investing in a quality patio loveseat is a smart choice for anyone looking to elevate their outdoor space and enjoy more time in the fresh air.

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8 Best Patio Loveseats Review - The Jerusalem Post

It took some time, but after a mild start to the winter, we took a big nosedive right into snow, then rain, then cold again. The latest winter weatherhas temps in the 20s and teens.

That means that everything that has melted and is still in driveways, walkways, and sidewalks will be frozen solid, making just walking to your car a potential hazard.But I discovered a life hack a while back that will clear away your steps and walkways instantly.

Just mix one teaspoon of Dawn dishwashing liquid, a tablespoon of rubbing alcohol, and half a gallon of hot or warm water. Pour that over your steps and walkways, and the ice will melt away and not refreeze.

I tried it myself and already had all the ingredients I needed.

Jeff Parsons

I mixed two teaspoons of Dawn and 2 tablespoons of rubbing alcohol with a gallon of hot water and poured it over my steps after cleaning as much ice as I could. It made a soapy mess, so I was a little concerned I used too much soap.

Jeff Parsons

I let it sit,and the next day we had more freezing rain. So for once, I was excited about that just because I wanted to seeif this trick worked. Sure enough...

Jeff Parsons

The next morning it was clear ascould be and barely wet, while the untreated railing was coated with a thin layer of ice. No fears of slipping or falling here, so I'm going to be using the life hack all winter long.

I even heard from Brandon, who tried it after I shared thisoriginally.

"So here I am chipping away to get the ice off my front steps two steps into it, my wife comes out and says let me show you what Jeff Parsons taught me on 97.9. As she dumped a gallon of whatever soap mixed with rubbing alcohol and hot water, and top two steps are clear in seconds. Thanks, Jeff. After my overweight self pounded on them for over an hour. Its kind of like a sham. Wow, but wait theres more. She tells me to step back and watch this. Look at them now clear as a whistle. I should listen to Q 97.9 more thanks to Jeff. Feel free to use this in your morning show and lets see how many men out there say to their wives, youre crazy that will never work."

Glad it worked Brandon. Don't forget, Lori and I are on 94.9 HOM now.

Here are Brandon's steps after he put the hammer and crowbar down and used the life hack.

Brandon Richardson

Gallery Credit: Lori Voornas

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Life Hack Claims to Keep Your Steps and Walkways From Refreezing - WJBQ

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USPS asks that walkways, areas around mailboxes be kept clear of ice and snow - Channel3000.com - WISC-TV3

Twenty years ago, when filmmaker Nancy Meyers featured a honed black granite countertop in her movie Somethings Gotta Give, she set off a design trend that reverberated throughout kitchens across the U.S. Two decades later, and interior designers are reporting a black countertop resurgence. The color exudes elegance and drama while making a bold statement, says Joe Carline, a partner at Kligerman Architecture & Design. Plus, it provides a sophisticated canvas for expressing design ideas.

Ahead, design experts share why you should consider a black countertop in 2024.

Black countertops are chameleons and can adapt to pretty much any kitchen stylewhether theyre enhancing an ultra-modern design, adding drama to a farmhouse setting, or evoking a coastal chic or cozy cottage vibe. Their versatile nature allows for both an elevated and relaxed aesthetic.

Black countertops effortlessly adapt to various design styles to create a cohesive feel, says Becky Shea, creative director at BS/D, who likes pairing them with natural woods, softer color palettes, and casual decor.

Choosing complementary accessories is key to making black countertops work in any style kitchen, notes Marie Cloud, owner and principal designer at Indigo Pruitt Design Studio. With coastal and cottage styles, for example, black countertops add contrast and depth against lighter and softer elements.

Ashley Maddox, a kitchen and bath designer at District Cabinets, loves accessorizing black countertops in French country kitchens. Picture pewter-colored cabinets, funky art in vintage frames, and a large wood dining table."

Annie Schlechter

Black countertops function as a neutral, creating contrast against white or light cabinets. However black-on-black can be daringly chic, especially in a sleek, modern kitchen, says Ross Padluck, a partner at Kligerman Architecture & Design.

Black countertops can also look earthy and warm against natural or ebonized wood. I love bringing a look together by mixing an all-black painted wood island, a lighter perimeter cabinet, and a black countertop, says Laura Bischofberger, a designer at J. Banks Design.

For a moody combination, Lucy Penfield, founder and creative director at Lucy Interiors, likes to team black countertops with deep green or Bordeaux cabinetry. Its like velvet and leathersultry and luxurious, she says.

A matte finish on a black countertop offers an understated elegance with minimal reflection, while a glossy finish results in a polished, high-end look.

A matte usually works best in a more traditional setting, while a glossy surface is sleeker and looks more modern, says Padluck. I once put honed granite black countertops in a 19th-century home and it appeared as if theyd always been there. I also installed a polished black marble countertop on a bar in a contemporary waterfront beach house and it looked perfectly at home.

With a matte finish, reflected light wont compete with the details of the stone and will be easier to maintain and hide imperfections. A polished finish exudes a luxurious appeal, but I prefer to lean into a quieter, understated matte for a subtle yet impactful presence, says Shea.

Jay Wilde

Some believe a black countertop will make their kitchen feel smaller. But its actually quite the opposite, says Maddox. Black countertops add depth and dimension, opening up and visually expanding a space. Maddox suggests choosing a stone with subtle veining, as solid black can come off as monolithic, he says.

The only time you should avoid black countertops, says SethBallard, founder ofBallard+ Mensua Architecture, is if theres not a lot of natural or artificial light in the room. Things could feel a bit claustrophobic, he notes.

Strategic illumination of pendant lights, under-cabinet lighting, and statement chandeliers is important when you have dark countertops. The key is balancing ambient and task lighting to enhance visibility and prevent the kitchen from feeling too dark, along with using under-cabinet lighting and pendant lights to illuminate and accentuate the space, says Cloud.

If youre implementing LEDs, experts suggest using warm, white 2700K bulbs. The last thing you want is for your kitchen to feel like an operating room, shares Padluck.

Whites, grays, and muted colors all create a balanced backdrop when it comes to black countertops. Its called neutral harmony, where you allow the countertop to shine without overwhelming the space, says Carline.

A variety of flooring can be paired with black countertopsfrom ebony wood to black and white marble. I love a white oak floor and a bone white wall withblack countertops, shares Christina Kim, the owner and principal of Christina Kim Interior Design.

Black countertops will show fingerprints and smudges more, especially under bright lights and in glossier finishes. Look to textured materials to help hide smears, suggests Ballard. Something like Absolute Black polished granite requires very little maintenance. Adds Cloud, The good news is dirt and crumbs dont show up on black countertops as much.

When choosing a thickness for your countertops, consider your overall vision and the style of your kitchen, says Cloud. A thin black countertop contributes to a minimalist aesthetic, while a thicker one will add substance to a space and can withstand more weight.

My go-to with black countertops is a 1--inch thickness with an eased edge, says Penfield. But a -inch countertop with a minimal overhang can look great in a modern setting. Shea prefers a 2-inch thickness with an eased edge. I like a profile that adds a sense of volume.

John Gruen

Black countertops can create a luxurious and dramatic feel in places like a home office or library. Bischofberger loves one on a bar paired with brass accents, while Penfield finds them equally as elegant in a powder room or pantry.

However, Maddox doesnt recommend putting black countertops in a bathroom, You dont want to risk toothpaste and soap stains, she says.

Its all about creating the right balance using the other elements in the room. Im actually all for the moodiness! says Cloud. However, I like to pair a black countertop with a lighter or more colorful backsplash, plenty of lighting and natural elements to keep the space feeling welcoming. Carlene often introduces elements including open shelving and glass cabinets to stabilize the dark drama of a black countertop.

Vibrant colored accessories can infuse energy and prevent a moody atmosphere, while a softer hue can work as well. Consider pairing black countertops with something unexpected, like pale blush, suggests Penfield.

A black countertop can be timeless, but its important to update any finishes to keep things fresh. Replacing cabinet hardware, for example, is one way to do so, says Ballard. Its all about incorporating finishes that are trending to keep black countertops feeling current.

Better Homes & Gardens WERNER STRAUBE

Theres a lot to consider when choosing a black countertop for your home. Here, Zach Epstein, presidentand chief product officer at Artistic Tile, shares the pros and cons of the most popular offerings.

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Black Countertops Are Making a ComebackHere's How to Get the Look - Better Homes & Gardens

One key advantage of buying new countertops online is the convenience. Online platforms provide a wide variety of options, so you can browse and compare styles and prices without leaving the house. Some make it easy to plan the whole process out on their website, like Lowe's which allows you to order custom designs based on your measurements and schedule an installation. To ensure you are getting a high-quality product, carefully check the product descriptions, photos, and reviews. For custom laminate countertops head toHome Depot, which has a range of designs starting at $24.30/square foot. The customer reviews describe the patterns and what the experience was like with the installers. Warranty information and return policies are some other things you need to know.

Still, there's only so much you can know about a product before inspecting it physically. While online platforms provide detailed information, variations in color, texture, or quality may be tough to gauge virtually. This is especially challenging when dealing with unique materials. For example, one of the mistakes everyone makes with marble countertops is buying them online because all slabs are different and need to be viewed in person. Another potential drawback with buying new countertops online is the shipping process, which has the potential risk of damage during transit. You could probably receive a refund or replacement based on this but it would stall your renovation.

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Buying New Countertops Online: Good Idea Or Renovation Mistake? - House Digest

When you use Windex or other cleaners that are corrosive, acidic, or abrasive on granite, you risk damaging the seal that protects the stone. Without the sealant, granite countertops are prone to absorbing liquids, which can cause the stone to harbor bacteria. Using Windex once on your granite countertops might not seem like it's doing much harm, but this can take away the beautiful shine and wear away the sealant, leaving you with dull, unprotected countertops. With the seal broken, your granite is more prone to absorbing liquids and staining.

Continual use of harsh cleaners like Windex may even cause small holes or cracks, known as pitting, to form in your stone. Though Windex is basic rather than acidic like other cleaners that are harmful to granite, the ammonium hydroxide it contains is meant to cut through grease and dirt, and it will do the same to your countertop's seal.

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Using This Popular Cleaner On Granite Countertops Is A Big Mistake - House Digest

The appeal of Jasmine Roth's kitchen design comes from variation. Though it is common for all materials to match in a kitchen, Roth sees the beauty in mixed materials. She chose a leather-finished quartzite for the perimeter counters. The leather finish is not just attractive; it's practical, too. It does not scratch or stain like other quartz or quartzite finishes. The black porcelain of the island is smooth and mimics a more traditional countertop. She told the homeowners that it's a sturdy surface to write or draw on, since the island is also flanked by chairs.

Roth's use of contrasting colors makes this renovation pop. The combination of black and white is chic and eye-catching."I'm super excited because we have two different materials. We have that leather-finished quartzite that's going on all the perimeters, and then we also have, to kind of offset that, the really smooth, dark porcelain that's going to be on the island," Roth said (via Realtor).

Her trick shows you needn't have the finest marble for a glamorous kitchen. That is why we predict mixed-material and dual-tone countertops will become a design trend in 2024. It is a unique approach to styling a room that has seen little innovation over the past few years.

Continued here:
HGTV's Jasmine Roth Introduces A Countertop Trend That's Bound To Take Over In 2024 - House Digest

Its easy to play with the styling of your interior and stay aligned with the latest design trends. Add new accessories, swap out soft furnishings, bring in a new piece of furniture, or repaint some walls. But there are some areas of your home which once designed will prove trickier to change. Your kitchen, for instance, is a big investment, and once in place, most of us would rather it stayed put for a good while.

If you want your kitchen to look as good in a few years time as it does now, youll need to steer clear of passing trends, and opt for timeless combinations that you wont get bored of because theyll always look good. With a myriad of cabinet colors and countertop materials to choose from, it can all get confusing and overwhelming, so I spoke to interior designers who create beautiful, timeless kitchens, and asked them to share their go-to combinations that youll be sure to love now, and for a very long time to come.

When looking to create a timeless aesthetic, neutral colors and natural wood will always be relied on. Theyre easy on the eye and prove a solid base to hold layering trends around. But all those color lovers out there neednt worry. The experts shared that bold and colorful can have a timeless appeal too. The secret is in choosing the correct combinations and tones. So here are the 5 modern kitchen ideas for cabinet and countertop pairings designers swear by, to help you create a space you'll always love.

(Image credit: Caesarstone)

One of the most classic kitchen color combinations of all time, a light cabinet paired with a dark countertop will always look elevated. The secret is in the balance. Keep the dark as an accent on your countertops and paint the cabinets light. Like any true classic, this look stays relevant, and designers keep coming back to it time and time again. Dark worktops are a rising trend in kitchen design, CaesarstonesHead of Design, Mor Krisher, tells me.

Im a big fan of dark countertops paired with pale cabinetry and metallic accents like brass, copper or steel taps and handles, adds the expert. If in doubt on which dark and which light colors to pick, stick to black for your countertops and an off-white for your cabinets. The classic combination is a staple of elegance in design and a safe bet for a luxurious look as long as you make sure the materials you use are of good quality (both black and white show off any scratches or marks easily, so think durability).

Pairing a dark surface with light cabinetry and flooring will help to keep the space feeling open and neutral, says Mor. This is especially beneficial if you want to create a cozy atmosphere, but your kitchen isnt vast in size, he adds. If your kitchen is on the smaller side, using a light color is a great way to create the illusion of space, while the darker accent will give a grounding feel and add interest too. Keep the combination modern and stick to off-whites for your cabinets as opposed to brilliant whites. These will look softer next to your dark countertops.

(Image credit: Erick Kruk. Design: Cdot Design Studio)

Oak is one of the most popular materials for a kitchen due to its durability, natural look, and affordability compared to other types of wood. With the right maintenance it will last for years, making it a great investment, while the natural look has a relaxed, timeless appeal.

Natural oak cabinets with light stone countertops are a classic that will never go out of style, Nicole Levin of Barnes Vanze Architects tells me. When choosing your countertops, think natural tones that wont clash with your cabinets, like beige, brown, sand or stone grey. Granite or quartz are great countertop material choices that look modern now and will stay relevant in time too, while a marble surface with veining in warm tones will always look impressive and elevate the look of any kitchen.

(Image credit: Old Brand New. Design by Dabito)

Our love for green isnt going anywhere. Derived from nature, its easy to live with, and easy to pair with other colors too. Its no wonder green kitchens are having a moment. And of all the greens that have come and gone with the passing of trends, sage is a shade so easy on the eye and natural, it feels like a breath of fresh air in a home.

A green kitchen is a bold choice, but it can have undeniable appeal especially when combined with burnished brass hardware and sleek white worktops. For the look to stay timeless, make sure the green you pick is as nature inspired as possible, steering clear from anything too artificial. Interior designer Ami McKay agrees and thinks that 'earthy green painted cabinets look great when paired with light quartz countertops'.

(Image credit: Brent Lukey. Design: Minett Studio Architecture & Design)

Right up there with green on our list of favourite timeless kitchen cabinet colors is dark blue, or navy. Contrary to what people often think, dark kitchens arent always sombre or austere, says Caesarstones expert, Mor.

While greens look fresh and natural, a dark blue is still a bold choice, but with a more classic presence, creating an expensive, more imposing look. If you love bold colours, your kitchen could be the perfect place to employ a dramatic navy tone, says Tom. Think dark and dramatic tones of blue for your cabinets. The point of this color is to create a strong look, so stay away from pastel shades that arent as visually striking.

Add an element of contrast to your dark kitchen with light countertops. White and cream accents, such as a sleek white marble-look worktop, can help to create a modern and fresh look and a deep blue kitchen is a great way to uplift more rustic elements in the room, such as a brick feature wall, adding to a striking design effect.

(Image credit: Aaron Leitz. Design: Lisa Staton)

White oak has become very popular with the rise of Scandi inspired aesthetic, and its no surprise. It's a shortcut to a minimalist kitchen while keeping its warmth, and its neutral character makes it very easy to live with. Perfect for creating kitchen design schemes that feel relaxing and welcoming, a white oak material for your cupboards looks even better when flat sawn, a cutting technique which keeps the woods unique arch shaped grain.

Interior designer Ami thinks natural white oak flat sawn cabinets and black soapstone countertops make a beautifully timeless pairing while keeping that contemporary edge. Take the black throughout your kitchen as an accent, and add black light fittings, or hardware, for a cohesive scheme.

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Green kitchens look fresh and inviting, just make sure you pick a very natural tone.

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A black faucet will make light oak cabinets and dark countertops look modern.

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Dark blue kitchen cabinets have a timeless look when paired with light countertops.

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5 Timeless Kitchen Cabinet and Countertop Combinations These Color Pairings Will Always Work - LivingEtc

For most of us, the kitchen truly is the heart of the home. No longer a space solely used for cooking, its become the room where that family gathers, kids do homework, and where the island countertop becomes a work from home desk. With so many activities taking place in one space, creating a lighting plan that caters to every need is not the most straightforward task.

A balance of function and form is needed. Lights that are task focused, to offer clear visibility when cooking and directional lights that can be controlled to illuminate dark countertop corners are a priority, but so is the scale and proportion of the light fitting within the space. Being able to change the intensity of the light throughout the day is equally important.

No matter what activity's underway in the kitchen, from chopping vegetables or making drinks to working from home, you'll need the right type of kitchen lighting over your countertops. Interior designers share the key factors you need to consider to light yours correctly.

(Image credit: Original BTC)

In a kitchen, lighting that is multi-functional is key. Consider the ways in which you use the space and ensure you have the necessary light options to enable it all. This will mean creating a balance of both overhead and task lighting. Use a combination of overhead lighting and task lighting, such as under cabinet lights to brighten up the entire space and also provide targeted illumination where it's most needed, advise lighting experts Niki Wright and Scarlett Hampton. Wall lights and picture lighting can also help to save worktop space, they add.

Bear in mind that you will need different lighting options for your cabinet kitchen countertops and your island worktop. For an island specifically, you want to make sure you have one large chandelier, or 2-3 pendants, explains interior designer Kristen Harrison. For other countertop areas, like near the stove, or sink, I love using downlighting in the way of wall sconces. Creating levels of light gives you, not only a well-lit area, but also a lot of visual interest, she says.

(Image credit: Joshua McHugh)

They might not be the go-to option for the living or bedroom areas of your home, but in utility-focused spaces theyre one of the most useful options to give you a good amount of light over your worktop areas.

The most common way to light kitchen countertops is by using recessed lighting, or can lights, as theyre commonly known, explains interior designer Liz Potarazu, adding that directional recessed lighting is even better to illuminate even those hidden corners of your countertops. More modern installations may include directional recessed lighting, whereby you can point your light at a specific area, easily illuminating those hard-to-reach corners, she says.

(Image credit: Anna Stathaki c/o Finkernagel Ross)

While recessed lights are great to ensure a good amount of light in the whole space, and illuminate the overall area of your countertops, its the under-cabinet lighting that is the most targeted, and proves most useful when good visibility is key. Under-cabinet lighting is a sleek and effective way to illuminate your space. These lights can even be used in lieu of overhead lighting, creating an ambient atmosphere, Liz tells me.

Even illumination over a work surface is ideal, so under cabinet lighting beneath upper cabinets or floating shelves is the best task lighting at counters, adds residential architect Katherine S. White. For under-cabinet lighting, if theres an easy way to conceal the fixture, i.e. a lip at the front of your upper cabinet, then warm LED lighting tape is easiest. If you have no way to conceal the lights, small LED wafer lights sometimes called puck lights look best. Make sure you use 3000k color temperature lights or less to avoid a sterile, laboratory feel, she explains.

(Image credit: David Tsay)

When choosing the right lights to illuminate your countertops, think about the overall size of your kitchen and cabinets. Oversized lighting fixtures can provide ample illumination and make a bold design statement, but they may not be suitable for smaller kitchens or those with a more traditional style, Niki and Scarlett tell me. 'It's important to consider the scale of the lighting fixture relative to the space and other design elements in the kitchen to ensure it complements the overall aesthetic, add the experts.

If you have a kitchen island, pendant lighting is the most common way to light its worktop area, and a great way to add style to the space. Pendant lights can be individual hanging lights or one linear pendant with multiple light bulbs, explains Liz. If your kitchen is small but you still want a more designed feel, flush mount lighting above the island will do the trick. Lastly, track lighting is still common in kitchens today, particularly in more modern-style homes, she advises.

Theres a lot to think about when creating your kitchen lighting plan, and with so many different types of lights needed, designers agree theres one mistake thats very easy to make. The worst thing you can do with your lighting in the kitchen is to create shadows. Its a place where you use sharp knives and need exact measurements, so its important for it to be well lit, warns Kristen. Lighting is an absolute must, and selecting the proper lighting can be the difference in a space appearing too dim, or unbalanced, adds interior designer Breegan Jane.

With the myriad types of lights we need in a kitchen, the solution to avoiding shadows is in the good planning of your overall lighting scheme. A lot of people like a mix of recessed lighting, pendants, sconces, and under-cabinet lighting. I really try to methodically plan where Im going to place my fixtures based on how someone moves throughout their kitchen, shares Kristen, emphasizing the importance of firstly assessing in detail how the space will be used, and then selecting the optimal lights to enable all the tasks that will be carried out in the room.

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In a room where function is key, there's nothing that beats recessed lights for overall illumination.

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Under cabinet lighting is best for even illumination of all the hidden corners of your countertops.

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If you have an island in your kitchen use 2-3 pendant lights to illuminate it and to create a designed look.

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How Do You Best Light Kitchen Countertops? 4 Tricks That Will Help You Get it Just Right - LivingEtc