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Global Decor
The kitchen is today’s living room; the heart of the home.
At AyA we believe that a great kitchen starts with you. Every AyA kitchen is designed and made just for you. Unlike other kitchen manufacturers we don’t assemble from stock, we produce a unique kitchen for each and every customer. You get the best of both worlds – the personalisation of a custom kitchen with the value and quality that comes from a 150,000 sq ft state-of-the-art production facility. AyA is committed to staying on the cutting edge of design and providing the best customer service experience possible. A lot of things have changed since AyA opened its doors back in 2001: technology, styles, materials, new locations and much more, but the one thing that never changes is our dedication to delivering exceptional value and customer service. By combining old world craftsmanship and attention to detail with high tech manufacturing processes AyA offers innovative, quality cabinetry at competitive, manufacturer direct prices. Discover how AyA’s incomparable selection of colours, styles and accessories can help you create your ultimate living space.
GLOBAL DÉCOR CENTRE LTD. DSM Warehouse Complex, Pacific Avenue, Point Lisas Tel: (868) 679-8953 E-mail: info@globaldecorcentre.com www.globaldecorcentre.com
Global Decor
Where to begin
So you've decided it's time to create your dream kitchen but you don't know where to begin. Don't worry it's easy and also the most enjoyable part of the project. Create a kitchen wish list file. This will help you communicate clearly your wants and desires to your kitchen designer. Magazine cutouts, printed pictures from the internet, and the rough measurements of the existing space are all key components to the file. Samples of cabinet finishes, counter top materials, flooring, backsplash tiles, paint samples and any materials or images that are an inspiration for the vision will assist in creating a smooth design and renovation process.
Things to think about Is the current eating space sufficient for your family’s needs?
There are many items which need to be considered before undertaking a major home renovation. The cost of cabinetry is only one aspect of the total amount depending on what is required. It is important to set your budget for the entire space allotting amounts to each element-cabinetry, appliances, flooring, paint, structural-if necessary etc. AyA means design and our professional in house designers will work with you to develop a plan that will fit your style and budget. It is highly recommended that you work with a contractor to co-ordinate various trades that may be involved in your renovation. You may require an electrician, plumber, tile installer, painter etc. These are all materials and trades that need to be considered when setting your budget.
• Do you require more space than you have right now? • Do you have enough storage space? • Does the placement of your appliances make cooking efficient? • Is there enough counter space? • Does your kitchen require more than just cabinetry? ie-a desk for a computer • How many people are typically in the kitchen at once? • Are there any safety needs that should be considered for small children or others in your home?
HIGH QUALITY COMPONENTS ARE STANDARD steel drawer box with 5/8” bottom 100% melamine interior clip on hinges including 3rd hinge on 42” wall cabinets 3/4 depth base cabinet shelves
backing on all cabinets including sink cabinets
all exposed gables for wood doorstyles are matching wood veneer
20 standard handles and knobs
dowel & glue cabinet construction
base cabinets on adjustable legs clip on veneer toe kick with mitred and glued corners
FLUID COLOUR INSIDE & OUT All AyA wood door cabinets have matching veneer finished ends. In addition, interior cabinet edges are colourmatched to doors for a seamless look.
all four cabinet front edges are colour coordinated PVC
A LEG UP
Behind the traditional toe kick gracing the bottom of AyA’s cabinets are engineered, adjustable legs. Wood components are raised above floor level, minimizing potential water damage to cabinetry.
Design
AYA KITCHEN UPGRADES
Working with a budget
Since the cabinetry makes the kitchen, AyA raises the bar by utilizing only high quality components.
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Ask yourself EUROPEAN FRAMELESS CONSTRUCTION HINGES AyA cabinets maximize interior storage and easy access with frameless, modular construction. Interior melamine gables and shelves are stain and moisture-resistant and never require refinishing.
FURNITURE FINISHES
A broad range of low luster, environmentally friendly finishes, all with AyA’s exclusive UV cured topcoat. This ensures non-fading, hard wearing cabinet doors for the long term.
Clip on, concealed European hinges with 110º opening and six way adjustment allow for easy removal of doors for virtually effortless interior cleaning or shelf adjustment.
DRAWERS STRONG & SILENT
Is there anything about the existing space that you will miss? You are renovating for a reason, but there may be some things that you still enjoy about your work space. Make sure to determine the main reason for renovation be it aesthetics or functionality to make sure that your new kitchen meets your expectations.
AYA Advantage
As pioneers of mass customization, AyA’s state-of-the-art cabinet AyA’s standard drawer system has a durable manufacturing facility enables us melamine 5/8” bottom to produce the range of product with metal sides running and attention to detail demanded on self closing slides. by the finest builders and designers These drawers will not while offering the quality and savings bind or warp providing total ease of operation. that result from producing on a mass scale for customers across North THIRD PARTY America. CERTIFIED Our ability to tailor make each and AyA’s standard cabievery customer’s order, combined netry is environmentally with turnkey service, starting with friendly certified by the superior in-house designers through KCMA Environmental to professional installation, means Stewardship Program. AyA’s quality is third AyA provides an unsurpassed level party certified by the of service to all of our customers. Woodmark Quality System This is the AyA Advantage.
For those looking to add a little extra oomph to their kitchen, AyA offers a variety of different options to help upgrade your space. Not to be confused with accessories or ornamentation, upgrades apply strictly to how the kitchen is built (boxes, doors, drawers, hinges & finishes). Below are just a few of our top choices for upgrading your kitchen.
DRAWER SELECTIONS
AyA customers have a choice of four options when it comes to drawers: standard, European double-walled, plywood or solid beech dovetail. For a contemporary European look, our European doublewalled drawer system has an anti-slam mechanism and full extension rollers that allow total interior access. Both wood dovetail drawer option run on state-ofthe-art European antislam slides for operational excellence with the elegance of wood.
SOFT CLOSE DOORS AND DRAWERS
The soft close revolution has moved into a new phase with the introductionof soft close hinges. AyA’s integrated soft close hinge is a must have item in any kitchen. They have an invisible and completely integrated anti-slam mechanism that ensures a soft, gentle close and also works as a safety feature with children. Each of AyA’s upgraded drawer systems also feature a soft-close mechanism that gently pulls the drawer in the last 4-5 inches, in slow motion, to a complete close. Silent and sturdy, these drawers are some of AyA’s most popular upgrades.
EVO GREEN UPGRADE Furthering its commitment to environmental sustainability and healthier home environments, in 2007 AyA launched a premium line of no added urea-formaldehyde plywood cabinets. A year later AyA launched EVO™ an extremely affordable no emission alternative. EVO™cabinets are certified sustainable by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), are made with no added urea formaldehyde particleboard and are fully LEED compliant.
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The Ultimate – Creative Kitchen Solutions
Contents
Before you Begin
5 •5 Easy Steps to create your own floor plan. •Know the Essentials of a Successful Kitchen Design
6 •Hiring a Pro Design & Décor
7 •A Kitchen Story: The Heart of the Home 8 •How to Create an Island Paradise
9 •Simple Solutions & Quality Choices
10 •Appliance Science 12 •Welcome to
How-To Guides Sinks & Countertops
19 •Believe it or not… Granite Paint!
20•7 Pointers to choosing a sink •How - To Install a Sink Brace
Walls & Cabinets
21 •How - To Paint Kitchen Cabinets •Painting Tips Flooring
23 •How - To Tile your Kitchen Floor
Essential Living
13 •Designs for Life 18 •Discover the Ultimate Kitchen appliances
Windows & Doors
24•A simple kitchen valance •How-to Install Swinging Passageway Doors
EDITOR’S NOTE
September/October, 2012
All kitchens should be dazzling spaces designed to meet your needs especially when you cook and entertain. @Home Magazine continues its commitment to providing engaging and authoritative resources on home design and décor solutions and this edition is no different. To give you a true taste of what we have in store for you, this month’s issue highlights creative kitchen solutions in the first of our three-part home improvement series. We hope this will offer inspiration for your renovation and remodelling projects. There is nothing more rewarding than to design and create a kitchen that suits your style and lives up to its functions. So, as you to begin to explore our howto guides, we invite you to have fun as you create the home you would love to live in. Enjoy, Lisa Jessamy Associate Editor Special Publications Unit
Lighting & Ceiling
26•How - To Lighting 27 •How - To Create Combination Rooms 28•How - To Create a Universal Kitchen
Outdoor Kitchens
29•Building an Outdoor Kitchen 30•Building an Outdoor Kitchen (continued)
Safety
31 •Outdoor Kitchen Safety
Special Publications Unit [SPU] PRODUCER
TRACEY ALONZO tracey.alonzo@guardian.co.tt
HEAD OF DESIGN DENISE BAPTISTE
ASSOCIATE EDITORS LISA JESSAMY HALCIAN PIERRE
CONTRIBUTORS
RANDALL WADDELL, RICHARD BRADFORD, ANN MOORE-SPENCER, DARREL DOOKOO, DIANNE HUNT, KAELANNE JORDAN, AKIELA HOPE, CHRISTINE DALKAN, HALCIAN PIERRE AND LISA JESSAMY
DESIGN & LAYOUT
SEAN SIMON KAREN OROSCO-HUGGINS SEAN FARRELL PSYCHE MITCHELL
SPECIAL PUBLICATIONS ENQUIRES:
Resources/References: www.curbly.com DIY Manual – Maria Constantino Creative Homeowner – Masonry Great Kitchens Ellen Whitaker, Colleen Mahoney, Wendy A. Jordan 101 Ideas Kitchens www.homedepot.com
@home@guardian.co.tt
BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT/SALES BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER (SPU) SONJA ROMANY SONJA.ROMANY@GUARDIAN.CO.TT
SALES MANAGER
GEORGE ELIAS GEORGE.ELIAS@GUARDIAN.CO.TT
ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE
CHARLOTTE YOUNG SING CHARLOTTE.YOUNG.SING@GMAIL.COM
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Before you begin
5 Easy Steps
to create your own floor plan
1.
Draw a scaled plan of your space
2. Measure your walls and floor and mark infrastructure features such as windows and doors. 3. Highlight all your service areas such as your sockets, gas outlets and light switches 4. Draw cut outs of the things you want in your kitchen i.e. appliances, furniture, units - do research on the sizes available including their dimensions 5. Place cut outs on your paper arranging them until you find what works bests for you.
Know the Essentials of a Successful Kitchen Design: “BUFF” Budget: Start by determining what the budget is. Usage: How will the people living in the home use the kitchen; are there children and animals in the household? Consider and understand the needs of the space before beginning the design. Function: This includes the “working triangle,” what type of cooking will be done and what are the “must haves.” Is a hand sprayer essential? Features: These are the bells and whistles of a project, the choices that make a kitchen look great such as tile and cabinetry. When beginning a kitchen design, these are the last aspects to consider. For many, this is often where they want to start!
SPEND TIP Spend: On good cabinetry that will stand up to wear and tear; on the backsplash which is the jewellery and design highlight of many kitchens; and on the stove, which is the workhorse of the room.
SAVE TIP Save: On the refrigerator and even the dishwasher. Select a refrigerator based on capacity. Through good design a less expensive unit can look great simply by paying attention to how the cabinetry is designed around it.
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Before You Begin
HIRING A DARREL DOOKOO
PRO
Wouldn't it be wonderful if you could do all your house repairs without hiring a professional? Think of all the money you would save! Unfortunately, some of us are not talented in those areas. Therefore we need to bring in the professionals.
“Try and point out in detail what exactly you require, what you envision and what your expectations are of the end product.”
Research. In hiring a pro, an easy way to get started is by looking at similar work done at a neighbour or friend’s house. If you like what you see and if the workmanship is top notch find out about pricing and info on the contractor.
Invite the contractor for a site visit. Try and point out in detail what exactly you require, what you envision and what your expectations are of the end product. Make sure your contractor understands exactly what you have just articulated. Ask questions and seek to clear every doubt in your mind. Do not leave anything to chance because later on minor alterations can lead to drastic changes in your end cost that you might not have catered for.
Get to know your contractor before hiring. Ask for references, more than one phone number e.g. His cellular number, house number or wife's phone number. In interacting with him before hiring, try using these numbers to make sure he's accessible in case things go wrong. His proper address, copies of ID's, e-mail or Facebook address can also be helpful.
Set the price and ground rules for payment. When you have reached an agreement on the scope of work and you have set the price and ground rules for payment, duration of project and what is expected of your contractor, request all of this in writing drawn up in basic contract form then disperse the first agreed sum of money.
When in doubt ... As with any project there will be hiccups caused by inclement weather, unavailability of materials or not a clear vision understood by your contractor of what you required. When in doubt or if shoddy workmanship is being experienced stop the project immediately. It is always best to try and resolve your issues with your present contractor, because firing your present and re-hiring another contractor can result in major financial loss.
Get your project going Having said all this not every contractor is out to rip you off. There are really honest people out there willing to work for an honest day's pay. Protect yourself with these basic tips and get your project going.
Design & Decor
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A Kitchen Story: The Heart of the Home ‘Dark cabinetry is very “now”, a contemporary choice that has long-term aesthetic value. Paired with either contrasting light counters or dark, in materials…’
Randall Waddell Principal Designer HomeWork Design Studio 680-6732
It’s the hub of activity, the place in your house where everyone seems to gather – where friends and family are always welcome to share good food and good times. This concept has become the essence of the modern-day kitchen design. We live in our kitchens, so we want them to be rooms we enjoy. A great kitchen is all about a wellplanned space that makes cooking a completely interactive experience among family and friends. The popular open-concept planning puts the kitchen at centre stage in the home, with meal preparation, serving and clean-up playing lead roles and providing the entertainment. This means that planning and design choices for the kitchen are widereaching and extend to influence colour, material and even the fabric and upholstered pieces in surrounding rooms. No wonder then that the kitchen is the room most often redone in the home, even though remodeling a kitchen is more expensive than just about any other home improvement project. If you are inclined to a kitchen with white cabinetry, I would suggest an option like glass mosaic tiles with hues of different tones of dark greys and clean muted tones – grey is chic and contemporary and picks up the color of the stainless steel appliances. Black countertops would look elegant and be a great contrast to the white, or to keep the kitchen soft, a light grey quartz with a silvery fleck that will tie into the backsplash and the appliances will give the space a sense of cohesion. To balance and ground the space, a contrasting colour for the “island”, if applicable, is a great way to bring some visual interest to the space and identify it as the singular separate piece in the room. Lighting is critical in designing for a
kitchen. There must be sufficient light over preparation counters, the sink and range; under-cabinet lights can be a luxury that will bring your backsplash to life. Dark cabinetry is very “now”, a contemporary choice that has longterm aesthetic value. Paired with either contrasting light counters or dark, in materials such as coloured granite, quartz or solid-surface, it will dictate a warm modern feel. The trick here is to balance the dark with some light; backsplashes with tones of steel, copper and bronze in glass or metal will bring dimension, reflect light and play off of the dark tones of the cabinets and/or counters. Stainless steel appliances have been the “go to” in design for a while now, but new highly polished finishes in black and white are heavy competitors in choices recently. There are so many options for your kitchen available, right here in Trinidad and Tobago. Everything from a range of counter choices, hardware, appliances, cabinetry (custom or modular), tiles, sinks, fixtures, lighting – all to suit any budget. The goal is just putting all those pieces together correctly to bring your individual kitchen to life. In the end, your home always has a story to tell, from the architecture, the location, the lighting (artificial and natural) and other elements, all come together to tell the story of what would bring the home harmony and balance. It’s that story a Designer listens to and the final chapter usually has a happy and inspired client.
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Design & Decor
KITCHEN
LIFESTYLE 1. How often do you shop for groceries? • daily • weekly • biweekly • monthly
2. How many people will be cooking or helping with preparation in the kitchen? • adults____ • children____ 3. Are the primary cooks: • right-handed • left-handed 4. What are their heights? 5. How does the family use the kitchen? • daily heat-and-serve meals • daily full-course meals from scratch • weekend quantity cooking relaxing • weekend family meals games • hobby cooking/baking reading • plating food for serving homework • other 6. How many people eat during? • daily family meals • dinner parties (seated) • dinner parties (buffet) • family holiday dinners (seated) • family holiday dinners (buffet) • large parties (buffet)
How to create
an island paradise Beyond Drapery Limited Phone: 868-678-3414 Email: beyonddrapery@tstt.net.tt Website: www.beyonddrapery.com Blog: www.beyonddrapery.com/blog/ www.facebook.com/BeyondDraperyLimited
For the homeowner who wants to know how to design an impactful kitchen island, here are a few tips that fully integrate function and fashion: the mechanics and the aesthetics. Many homeowners now see islands as a trendy symbol. But a poorly designed island can sink the functionality of the kitchen. The foot print. Kitchen islands can add some extra work space if you have enough room to put one in. If there is not enough room, trendy or not, don’t put one in. It will make your kitchen look and feel small. It will always seem to be in your way and be an inconvenience. The experts guide that an island should be a minimum of 2 by 4 feet. Lengths as small as 42 inches work as extra work space, but is less useful for seating multiple people. One mistake is thinking that bigger is always better. Islands that are 5 feet or deeper are impractical, you would not be able to easily reach the centre. The size of the mainland. The size of your island is determined by the actual space in the kitchen. You need a minimum of 36 inches of clear space all the way around the island; 39 inches is better and 42 inches is ideal. At the bare minimum, you need at least 10 by 8 feet of extra space. Some kitchen specialists suggest that an extra 14 by 10 feet is ideal. Tape some newspaper together in the size and shape of your
proposed island. Mark out the locations of any major feature such as sinks, cooktops, etc. Can you move around it easily? Will you be able to use the features of the island? Can you give your island enough floating space? If not, consider a peninsula or an island on wheels that can move out of the way or slide into place as needed instead. The shape of the mainland. Once your kitchen is the right size, U-shaped and L-Shaped kitchens accommodate an island easily. You can create secondary or supplemental work stations or further demarcate the space, in the case of a L-Shaped kitchen. Galley style and peninsula kitchens are not as suitable because the island tends to disrupt the normal workflow. In the one wall kitchen, the island actually extends the work area creating a virtual galley (if the island is big enough) without the hemmed in feeling of upper cabinets. This arrangement is perfect for open plans in apartments. The moveable island is useful if the space is small. What type of island do you want? A storage island? A social space for eating or congregating at a bar? A working space with a cooktop or sink? A baking centre? Cool granite or marble surfaces are great for dough making. Your commercial sized mixer can be stored on a spring loaded shelf that lifts out of the cabinet. Bear the function in mind and ensure you can aesthetically supply the utilities –
plumbing and drainage for the sink, electrical for appliances, gas for the cooker etc. Do not forget lighting for the island and if using a cooktop you will need a ventilation hood overhead or a down draft ventilation system. Your paradise. Your island should integrate and compliment the general design of your kitchen. If the kitchen is open to an adjacent living space, that area must also be taken into consideration. But the island does not have to exactly match the other cabinetry. In fact, I will venture to say that it should not exactly match. This is just like the living room suite where everything matches perfectly: boring and wasted opportunity for increasing the design equity of the space. You have the opportunity to treat your island like accent furniture. Consider varying the countertop material or the finish of the cabinetry. You can add details such as furniture legs and other details and your island can look like a fine piece of furniture. Consider incorporating storage and display space or a cook book storage. What about wine coolers or draft beer. Small refrigerators are great for the kids or family members in wheelchairs. How you use your island paradise is personal and unique to you and your family. This is influenced by your lifestyle and the way you work in and use your kitchen. No one else’s paradise will be your paradise.
7. What type of eating area do you want? • table (round/rectangle/square/ • hexagonal/octagonal) bench • banquette or booth attached table • counter-height bar raised bar • lower bar other 8. What type of entertaining do you do? • cocktail party barbecue • sit-down dinners buffet • other
Design & Decor
Simple solutions
&quality choices: A kitchen makeover will not just give your kitchen a lift; it would do the same for you as well. Most people probably spend most of their time in the kitchen, so why not turn your ordinary kitchen décor into something that is pleasing to the eye and is also a reflection of your personality.
Dianne Hunt
Think outside the box
It is not just about paint, new cupboards and marble counter tops. Kitchens get a lot of wear and tear, so start by replacing faded kitchen rugs, stained tea towels, broken hooks, old pots and pans and more, with a modern, vintage or any other style you desire, into a decorative theme. So go ahead and revamp your kitchen by replacing old items with beautifully designed kitchen accessories. Imagine DH Gift kitchen ware in fun colours, patterns and textures. These are easy ways to redecorate a kitchen without breaking the bank. Accessories will add the feel good factor to the time you spend every day in your kitchen.
Stylish Stow-Aways
Hiding kitchen staples and concealing clutter are two of the easiest opportunities to launch a successful decorating coup. Get your hands on a set of canisters, or versatile tins, tubs, baskets, and other tuck-it-away possibilities. It will keep your kitchen food stuff and utensils well organised and easy to find. Create haute kitchen couture.
Bring in more colours
The possibilities are endless when it comes to adding colour. Various decoration items can add colour to your kitchen such as: vases, flowers, candles, fruit bowls, napkins, table cloths, kitchen clocks and cookware from the DH Gift decadent range of Le Creuset cookware in a rich red colour. The Le Creuset range is hand crafted enamel cast iron cookware, with a lifetime guarantee. Blenders and coffee makers in different colourful designs are also available. Select the right colours that are best suited to the rest of your kitchen décor. Don’t limit yourself.
Old meets new
Unexpected style may be hidden in your own kitchen cupboards. Consider the gorgeous kitchen ware that comes out only for the holidays and special occasions such as vintage egg beaters, memorabilia coasters, mugs, fridge magnets and that old tea pot that was passed on to you from your grandma. — wouldn’t they look great displayed on the wall, counter tops or a shelf? Now add to those old items presentday pieces, such as cookie cutters that can be hung in delicious arrangements, mix old and new cook books on the shelf and so much more. By mixing old and new kitchen items, you can give your kitchen an instant makeover with a personal touch.
The DH Gift dynasty The DH Gift range of kitchen decorative accessories include placemats, table runners, serving trays, cookware, baking ware, cutlery and designer plates and glass sets, as well as numerous other accessories. There is a stylish look for everyone. It’s all about making life choices and living with a purpose. At DH Gift we bring to you second to none - quality, service and unique style. DH Gift is Located at: The Falls in West Mall, 632 6527 Long Circular Mall, ground floor, 622 0500 Dhgift2012@yahoo.com
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Appliance Science
COURTS HOME SOLUTIONS APPLIANCE EVENT Courts hosted its HOME SOLUTIONS APPLIANCE EVENT by WHIRLPOOL at its Megastore location on Saturday 8th September. This was the third in a series of Major events hosted by the market leader who pulled off a successful Furniture Fashion Event and a CONNECT, EXPLORE, ENGAGE Digital Event in July and August respectively. The Appliance Event was the culmination of a series of mini-Appliance showings at 7 main stores across the country. Customers were treated to product demonstrations using the Whirlpool range of fridges, freezers, stoves and microwaves, free giveaways and special offers on purchases. The Whirlpool brand ambassadors were also on hand to lend assistance and give additional information on products. The Megastore Event boasted of a team of local chefs who created easy to prepare meals. Omelettes, parsley potatoes and chicken as well as a freshly baked Great Foods ham, drew shoppers from across the store to the kitchen setup of a refrigerator, microwave oven and four burner gas stove – all Whirlpool of course. The appliances were displayed in lifestyle kitchen set-ups courtesy L.J. Williams’ HOME STORE, who also had their representatives on hand to assist customers in creating their ultimate kitchen and laundry experience, along with complimentary home wares also available at the HOME STORE. Whirlpool is a major category line for Courts and underscores the company’s pledge of bringing the World’s Best Brands to the marketplace. Whirlpool is 100 years in existence and like Courts is a market leader in its category. Courts has recently expanded its range of Whirlpool to include the Whirlpool Gold Suite of products. These products feature 6th Sense
technology that senses and manages what was once beyond one’s control. The ranges have AccuBake temperature management system to ensure even, consistent results. The refrigerator’s temperature management system monitors and adjusts the temperature to help preserves foods. The suite includes: • 25 & 26 CU. FT. French Door Fridge (Stainless Steel) • 30” Gas Stove with Cast Iron, Full Width Pot Rests (Black & Stainless Steel) • 30” Dual Oven Gas Stove (Black & Stainless Steel) Dawn Mondesir, local Whirlpool representative at the event, pointed out that Whirlpool is a family brand and that the company was always striving to make technological advances. Mondesir made it clear that the brand’s dominance was a direct result of its reliability with products that range from washers, dryers, refrigerators, freezers, microwave ovens and air conditioning units which are available at all Courts Stores. Courts joins Whirlpool in this effort and is committed to its promise to provide the very best in appliance solutions to its customers.
September/October, 2012 www.guardian.co.tt Sunday Guardian
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Design & Decor
POT SET • Perfect starter set for aspiring gourmet cooks and smaller families • Stainless steel vessels and lids offer maximum durability • Tri-ply clad construction provides quick and even heating • Compatible with all cooktops, including induction • Mirror polished interior and exterior finish on these pots and pans • Cast, mirror polished stainless steel handles • Dishwasher-safe • Lifetime warranty
KNIFE SET Designed for maximum comfort with its lightweight contoured handles and performance blades, this knife set is the perfect choice for everyday tasks, from mincing herbs to slicing meat and poultry.
The right glassware is pleasing to the eye and satisfying to the hand. This decanter is the result of searching for a basic decanter that will fill all of your decanting needs. The wide bowl allows for a maximum breathing surface. Oenophilia decanter
SLOW COOKER Experience an even, deeper, richer flavour.
VISIT FEN'S FIRST
FOR THE LARGEST SELECTION OF CONSUMER APPLIANCES FOR WARRANTY AND AFTER SALES SERVICE FOR QUALITY CUSTOMER CARE AND SERVICE
AND MORE.....
• DISHWASHERS • COOKING PRODUCTS & ACCESSORIES • MICROWAVE OVENS • ICEMAKERS • STOVES & RANGE HOODS • REFRIGERATORS & FREEZERS • SMALL APPLIANCES • WASHERS & DRYERS • LAUNDRY ACCESSORIES TWO LOCATIONS: FENS OF MARABELLA Union Road, Marabella 658-2707/1979/3987 Find us on Facebook
FENS OF CHAGUANAS
Southern Main Road Edinburgh, Chaguanas
672-5252
www.fensofmarabella.com 0930007
Design & Decor
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SAMORA HOUSE
DESIGNS FOR LIFE The philosophy of Samora House is to provide customers with a quality shopping experience like no other. At this unique design and décor store, you can find a selective offering of eclectic Indonesian (teak, mahogany) home furnishings that fulfill your design needs and appeals to your sense of style. Samora House offers custom levels of service along with a breadth of products to personalise the design ex-
Ideal accents for dining areas provide a functional purpose yet are beautiful and interesting.
perience. Most of the furniture designs are conceptualised and designed to suit the Caribbean lifestyle by Manager Silbert DeShong. Whether you’re looking for one chair or a contemporary dining set, his team is always available to help customers blend their aesthetics and personal taste with function. If you are looking for exquisite pieces to personalise your home, they also carry a fantastic array of interesting home wares from around the world.
Add Character and Personality (silver plates and ornaments)
Create harmony within your design Build Storage into your dining room
At Samora House you can always find exceptional customer service, high quality furnishings at competitive prices. Visit their operations at Bldg. 902 Fernandes Estates, Morvant, Trinidad and Tobago. Business hours are from Mon – Fri 10 am - 4 pm, and on Saturdays at 10 am – 2 pm. For more information call (868) 626-1372 or email: samorahouse@yahoo.com
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Design & Decor
Before and After Kitchens
This project was a particularly challenging one as it required the transformation of a standard town house into a modern openplan contemporary home. It was not simply the refurbishment of a kitchen; it required a redefining the entire property including the kitchen, pantry, vanities and laundry. As the clients are at the heart of the fashion industry, they had a keen understanding of contemporary design, a clear vision of what they wanted us to achieve and were expertly guided by their interior designer, Richard Bradford richard@italiankitchenco.com Jasmin Sabga of Jaids Interiors. The old kitchen contained standard white flat paneled doors and a basic wall and base cabinet layout. The new kitchen needed to be a fully functioning chef’s kitchen, open plan for interacting with their family and entertaining guests, visually stunning and very functional. The first step was to design the footprint and layout. With large kitchens it is best to define several separate yet connected areas within the whole. For example, one area is dedicated to food storage, (frozen, refrigerated, fresh and dry), and other areas for food preparation, cooking, serving and cleaning area. Although this kitchen is large, we managed to create a natural flow between each of these distinct areas, so that it was extremely functional and ergonomic.
Traditional to Contemporary
BEFORE The second step was to create the right aesthetic look. The client chose a dark wood "wenge" textured and ribbed door front for the base cabinets, which was contrasted by a tall white high gloss larder with a wenge surround. We also included some brushed stainless steel doors to add another dimension to the long linear look. Instead of wall cabinets, the client decided on a 30ft long, four inch thick quartz shelf to house all her plates, cups and bowls, making it reminiscent of a more commercial kitchen. The counter top was also white quartz, four inches thick, long and clean, complimenting the texture of the wenge door fronts. The client was also keen for us to utilize every square inch of the cabinets. To this end we added a number of different kinds of cleaver space saving and storage solutions from Kessebohmer, including two full height pull-out pantries, two 'LeMans' full extension corner shelves, under counter pull-out mechanisms, pop-up plug sockets and concealed internal drawers within drawers for maximum storage.
AFTER
To accent the commercial look, we supplied a “semi-pro monoblock" sink with sprung hose and a rectangluar “zero profile" (square cornered) stainless steal sink.
The appliances for this kitchen were supplied by Lewis Appliances and included state of the art GE Monogram side by side built in 48" fridge/freezer, convection oven, Advantium “speed cook oven”, dishwasher, glass island extractor hood and the new 36" mirror fronted induction cook top that boils water in seconds. The end result is a contemporary workspace, with a multifunctional use. Although this kitchen was designed for a client with a very specific style and needs, and may not be everybody's taste, it is regardless, undeniably striking.
Design & Decor
WELCOME TO
Creating your inspired space at home just got a whole lot easier. At least that is what Richard Bradford of The Italian Kitchen Company and Dane Lewis of Lewis Appliances hope to achieve with their brand new design showroom coming soon to Lower St. James, Trinidad’s new design district. The concept evolved over a casual lunch at Lewis’ Ariapita Avenue restaurant, Flair, when the opportunity to acquire a much coveted property became a reality. The property far exceeded their expectations and ideas expanded to invite other flagship home solutions providers to be part of this new venture. The space will showcase the largest selection of designs ever displayed in a showroom environment, many in complete lifestyle room settings and features the collections of top house brands and various components needed for house building and home finishes. This eclectic showroom was designed by Bradford with the vision of being the primary destination for the professional design community and homeowners who are seeking affordable yet high-quality solutions for their home renovation and new build projects. The Italian Kitchen Company has been conducting business for the past six years designing and supplying kitchens bathroom and bedroom solutions throughout the Caribbean. According to Bradford, the
new design centre, aptly named "Home House” promises to deliver creative atmosphere in a bright, openplan environment, inviting conversations about transforming homes into spaces where you love to live. The space will also give design professionals and architects an area to work on many projects in one combined showroom where all components are at hand to demonstrate how they can all work together. Apart from offering the perfect setting for clients and design professionals to learn more about the wonderful world of home design and see it for themselves, Bradford is very pleased to offer employees a comfortable and relaxed atmosphere to enjoy their jobs. This includes comfortable and fun lounge/crèche – not only for his girls but for the children of employees and customers. Officially opening by the end of this year, Home House will be an ideal location for visitors to explore options, get inspired, meet with designers, architects and collaborate with experts who can demonstrate the best home solutions in real-world applications. "We're extremely excited to bring this Showroom to Trinidad," said Bradford. “Home House will be a powerful resource for homeowners, design professionals and architects to expand their knowledge of the latest trends and help develop and grow their businesses. We are here every step of the way to support them."
Home House offers high quality brands and solutions in the following areas: • Kitchen Cabinetry • Home office • Vanities • Flooring Solutions • Wardrobes and closets • Fixture and Fittings • Counter tops • Home Furnishings • Appliances • Parts and Services Scan to visit our website – www.italiankitchenco.com – where you will find ‘real kitchens’ ideas and inspiration for your next project
Dane Lewis, Lewis Appliances and Richard Bradford, The Italian Kitchen Company
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Sunday Guardian www.guardian.co.tt September/October, 2012
September/October, 2012 www.guardian.co.tt Sunday Guardian
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Design & Decor
Discover the Ultimate Kitchen appliances Lewis Appliances – Good Living Great Prices Lewis Appliances was established in 1986 and boast of more than 60 years combined experience in Appliances Sales and Service. Our Company’s mission is “to provide quality products at reasonable prices with a strong commitment to efficient service”. Driven by the needs of our customers, Lewis Appliances is always researching innovative and reliable appliances to complement our existing offering.
APPLIANCES: Lewis Appliances – is the oldest authorised General Electric (GE) dealer in Trinidad and Tobago and has been among the top two (2) largest GE distributors for the Caribbean Region for the past five few years. The company distributes GE’s complete line of household appliances including GE’s signature lines, GE Profile, GE Café and GE Monogram and is also the authorised distributor for Electrolux Appliances Frigidaire Gallery/Pro Appliances Halsey Taylor Water Coolers Deflecto Ventilation Products Polycom SA Gasket Construction Our Service Department –‘Doctor Fixit’- is the largest appliance service provider in Trinidad and Tobago, repairing all major brands of appliances. Our technical staff is factory trained, experienced, and well equipped to undertake even the most difficult jobs with a fleet of vehicles dedicated to service throughout Trinidad and Tobago.
PARTS Through our Parts Departments –‘Parts Master’– we stock a complete line of quality replacement parts for all major brands of appliances e.g. GE, Kenmore, Hotpoint, Whirlpool, Westinghouse, Tappan, Frigidaire, Koldraft, Maytag and many others. We carry one of the largest selections of GE parts in Trinidad and Tobago. Our Parts Sales Team informs and assists customers in obtaining the correct parts for proper applications.
ASSEMBLY & DISTRIBUTION Lewis Appliances is also the distributor of POLYCOM S.A. custom made to order refrigerator and freezer door gaskets. The product called the “Polycom Custom Gasket” (PCG) uses European Technology ensuring precision and quality standards with every unit made. The introduction of the PCG to the Lewis Appliances product offering is just one of the product development initiatives that the Company has embarked upon within recent times. Customers can order any size refrigerator or freezer door gasket and pick up a made to specification gasket the next day. Lewis Appliances celebrates 25 years of being in operation; this marks a milestone in the Company’s history and confirms its position in the industry as a leader. On the horizon, Lewis Appliances intends to increase its current operating capacity, form new business alliances and introduce new innovation to the appliance industry just as it did more than 20 years ago when the company was born.
APPLIANCES & FIXTURES You plan to use: • natural gas • propane gas • electric dual fuel • electric What appliances do you plan to add or replace? • Energy Star appliances food disposal • dishwasher icemaker • trash compactor warming drawer • gas cooktop range • induction cooktop • under-counter oven • traditional cooking oven • convection cooking oven • steam oven steamer fryer • wok burner griddle grill • energy-efficient appliances • built-in coffee/espresso maker • dishwasher drawers • under counter refrigeration • water purification/filter • heater in toe kick • decorative hood • charging station/drop zone What small appliances do you use in the kitchen? • blender hand mixer electric mixer
• food processor bread machine • nut chopper juicer slow cooker • electric can opener toaster/toaster oven • coffee maker/grinder • other Will any of the cooking or food preparation require special kitchen appliances? • gourmet baking frying • canning candy making • ethnic steaming • in-home catering company • other What kind of refrigerator do you want? • slide-in built-in look • freestanding built-in If you plan on adding a new • microwave, what kind do you want? • countertop built-in above cooktop • built-in microwave drawer • built-in cabinet For ventilation, what type of vent hood do you want? • updraft downdraft recirculating • Is your ventilation: • adequate noisy ugly • non-existent venting to outside
Head Office Corner of Edward & Tragarete Rd. P.O.S. Off# 1-868-623-0386 Fax# 1-868-625-5660 Email: info@lewisappliances.com or Wilson Road, Scarborough Off# 1-868-639-4167 Fax# 1-868-625-5660 Email: info@lewisappliances.com
Sinks & Countertops
BELIEVE IT OR NOT…
Granite Paint!
Over the years, granite has become very popular as the material of choice to enhance domestic and commercial interiors. It is used to create beautiful countertops in kitchens, bathrooms and other areas. Notwithstanding its aesthetic appeal, the main benefit of granite is its durability since it is the second hardest stone in the world after diamond. While many new and existing homeowners may desire to use granite in their homes, the fact is that it is significantly more expensive in comparison to traditional countertop materials such as tiles and laminate. This point has even more relevance in light of today’s economic climate. Giani Granite Paint for Counter-
SICILIAN SAND™
BOMBAY BLACK™
SAPPHIRE BLUE™
CHOCOLATE BROWN™
ROMA RED™
EMERALD GREEN™
tops is now available in Trinidad and Tobago. It is an innovative product which transforms the appearance of kitchen, bathroom, bar, vanity and other countertops or tables to a new granite finish. This unique paint system can be used on a host of surfaces including ceramic tiles, laminate, wood, marble and even granite itself. In short, it delivers an attractive, new granite finish without the associated expense. Moreover, Giani Granite Paint is quite easy to apply. The product has taken the American Do-ItYourself (DIY) market by storm being the world's first granite paint kit for countertop and table makeovers. Giani Granite Paint for Countertops has been raved about by bloggers as well as the media. It is packaged in a kit complete with paints, rollers, sponge, practice board, demonstration DVD and illustrated instructions. Traditional granite countertops are naturally porous, absorbing liquids and foods that can retain harmful bacteria. Consequently, it is recommended that they are properly resealed every year which many people don't do- creating a potentially unhygienic surface. GIANI Countertop finishes are designed to lock out moisture and resist bacteria because of their unique blend of polymers and minerals, making them beautiful and safe for the family. How durable is GIANI Granite Paint for Countertops? The GIANI polymers are automotive grade resins which are used in the manufacture of car bumpers, making the final finish quite durable. An environmentally friendly product, GIANI Granite Paint uses new water-based resin technology which delivers a faster drying time, low odour and easy clean up. GIANI Granite Paint for Countertops is distributed by A & A Properties Development Limited and will soon be available at Sissons Infinity Colourshops throughout Trinidad and Tobago.
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Sinks and Countertops
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The general style of your kitchen
POINTERS to choosing a sink
The kitchen sink is one the busiest and most important spots in the kitchen. Besides serving as a heavily used fixture for washing dishes and preparing meals, kitchen sinks are a prominent focal point in your kitchen. When choosing kitchen sinks you'll find a myriad of options available. In finding the one that best suits your needs, here are 7 things you should consider, courtesy Desiree Alexander, General Manager, Bath & Kitchen Design Centre
Don't go purchasing sinks based solely on its aesthetics. Rather, choose a sink to fit the overall style of your kitchen. If your kitchen style is modern, contemporary, country, old fashioned or antique then your sink should complement that style as well.
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Size of sink needed
While the choice is obviously yours, the size of your kitchen usually dictates the size of sink you should install. Thus, its important to make sure you get the proper size sink that fits the allotted space of your kitchen and one that is wide and deep enough to accommodate pots and pans.
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Mounting Style
Sinks can be fixed in three kinds of mounting style which is determined by the counter top. Sinks are generally fixed above the countertop ( top mounted), below it ( under mounted) or level with it ( flush mounted). Top mounting can easily be installed and can be used with tile, wood or solid surfaces. Under mounting offers a more integrated look since it can be used with solid surfaces only whereas flush mounted are somewhat similar to top mounted as they even sit with countertops and can be used with tile, wood or solid surfaces as well.
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The Shape
When it comes to kitchen shapes, you'll be bowled its selection. Today's kitchen sInks come in all shapes- round, square, rectangular, oblong and even oval. Whatever shape you
decide, your choice should draw attention to the space, for the right reasons of course.
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The Material and Colour of the sink
Choosing the right material for your sink is a decision that is both practical and aesthetic. Kitchen sinks are manufactured using many different materials- ceramic, glass, stone, metal, stainless steel etc. can all be found in today's modern kitchens. Despite this wide variety of options, stainless steel has emerged to become the most popular choice for installations. Generally, the colour of your kitchen sink is often coordinated with the counter tops, walls and floor.
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Number of bowls
Deciding how many bowls you need is best determined by the size of your kitchen and your typical activities in it. Double-bowls of equal size can be an ideal solution if there are often multiple cooks in the kitchen. For smaller kitchens, a large single bowl sink can fulfill most functions. While the most common sinks are double bowls of equal size, double and triple bowls offer their own unique advantages.
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Type of faucet
Kitchen faucets not only complete the look of your sink, but they’re one of the most commonly used fixtures in the home. In order to strike a balance between functionality and style, be sure to first determine your needs. A single-handle faucet with a pull-out sprayer is great for saving space and rinsing out the sink and a high-arc spout will increase water range.
HOW TO INSTALL A SINK BRACE Once a kitchen sink is inserted into the counter, it might seem secure, but added weight and pressure could easily cause it to fall or cause damage to the counter. Using under sink clamps, you can brace your kitchen sink and protect it from damage. The clamps install with minimum tools and usually come included with the sink that you purchase. Installations are relatively the same for every type of sink. Sink clamps typically are installed with a new sink, but they can be added to a sink at any time.
1. Open the cabinets under your sink. Remove any supplies or storage that blocks access to the sink. If you are installing them to a new sink, everything should be removed already. 2. Plug in and set a portable light under the sink. The extra light will make it a lot easier to access and see the clip position. 3. Look under the sink and find the small rivet around the edges. It is a small space made specifically for the sink clips and goes around the whole edge of the sink. 4. Slip the clips into place under the sink. Evenly place the clips around the edge of the sink. Sinks will come with an average of 10 to 15 clips. 5. Start with the farthest clip from the back. Spin the clip so it aligns with the underside of the counter. Use a wrench and turn the bolt until the clip clamp is securely tightened against the counter. The clips will have small teeth that dig into the counter to secure it. 6. Repeat this process for all of the clips under the sink. Check to make sure you did not miss any clips under the sink.
Walls & Cabinets Materials! Before you get started, you're going to need to do a little shopping and gather up the following items: 1. Paint - Oil based OR 100% acrylic latex, semi-gloss or gloss. We went with acrylic latex, semi-gloss. 2. Primer - Don't skip this! If you can, try to use a primer labelled "high build" or "sandable". 3. Degreaser or TSP 4. An angled brush OR rent/buy a paint sprayer. Using a sprayer will probably save you about one (of our five) weekends. 5. Sandpaper - You're going to need 100 grit (medium) and 220 grit (extra fine/fine). 6. Sponge (to use with your degreaser/TSP) 7. Gloves (to use with your degreaser/TSP) 8. Tack Cloth Other items you will need: rosin paper OR plastic sheeting to protect your counters, painters pyramids OR 2x4s with nails hammered through (to set your cabinet doors on while drying), and a shop vacuum. And that's it. Let's start painting! Step 1: Remove cabinet doors and drawer fronts, plus any hardware that might be attached. (If you're protecting your countertops, now's the time to cover them with your rosin paper/plastic sheeting.) Step 2: Take your degreaser/TSP and thoroughly clean all areas of your cabinet doors/drawer fronts as well as the cabinet boxes. If you have sensitive skin (or don't want chemicals all over your hands) wear gloves! Step 3: If your cabinets have dings or you're replacing your hardware with something different, fill in all the holes/divots with wood putty. (We didn't have this issue.) Next, sand your cabinets and cabinet boxes with 100 grit sandpaper, going with the grain. Really get in there and rough up that surface. Step 4: Vacuum up as much sawdust as you can. Step 5: Using your tack cloth, wipe off any remaining sawdust. You want your surface to be as clean and dust-free as possible. Taking the time to adequately prep is KEY. Step 6: Prime time! Apply your primer, starting with the inner panel. Go against the grain first, then with it. This will help to fill in the grain and create a smoother surface. Allow the primer to dry thoroughly;
How to Paint Kitchen
Cabinets A Step-by-Step Guide
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consider priming your cabinet boxes while you wait. Step 7: Once your primer is dry, it's time to sand again! Using a fine or extra-fine grit sandpaper (around 220 or so), sand away any brush strokes or uneven primer. Create as smooth a surface as you possibly can. Like I said, taking the time to adequately prep your surface is KEY.
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Step 8: Vacuum off all the sawdust. Step 9: Wipe everything down with your tack cloth, making sure to get any remaining sawdust. Repeat steps 6-9 again at least once, if not twice. That means you'll be applying 2-3 coats of primer, sanding in between each and once more before painting. DO THIS. Remember what I said about surface prep. Step 10: It's finally time to paint! Using your angled brush, start on the back panels of your cabinets like you did with the primer. This time, go with the grain only. Apply a relatively thin coat, don't slop it on there. Let this coat dry to-the-touch before flipping it over and painting the other side. Allow this coat to dry thoroughly, on a level surface. Meanwhile, go paint your cabinet boxes, following the same technique. Once dry, make a quick pass with your tack cloth to get any dust, then repeat Step 10 to apply a second coat. (A third coat will probably not be necessary, but if it is, you know what to do now!) Optional Step: Some people suggest finishing your cabinets with a coat (or two) of a water-based polyurethane, sanding once between coats. This is semi-controversial, as others claim it will cause your cabinets to yellow over time. It's up to you; we didn't do this. After your cabinets have completely dried and cured (which takes a day or two), you can reattach them and install the hardware.
Painting Tips Due to the high levels of humidity and condensation of kitchens are subjected to, they become prone to paint cracking, peeling and mildew. In order to avoid these problems, a semi-gloss paint is recommended. A semigloss paint has a higher sheen value, meaning it provides a harder finish that proves more moisture resistant. Along with this, a semi-gloss finish is also very washable and scrubbable.
Tips for Kitchen
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BE BOLD Give a kitchen appeal with interesting choices. Use the same dark wood normally found on floors for the ceiling, or place formal stools that would more likely be seen in a dining room by the island. Even add a coloured door as a bold departure from a mostly white colour scheme. A Variety of Cabinets Install varying cabinets to make a huge difference in the overall appearance of your kitchen. Here, a set of white cabinets stands out near a blue-and-white checkered space. Bright-Colored Pantry Door One important brightcolored piece is often all that's needed to add originality to a kitchen. Painted red, this unique pantry door stands out against the white surfaces that surround it. Bold Kitchen Door Give a kitchen appeal with interesting choices. Use the same dark wood normally found on floors for the ceiling, or place formal stools that would more likely be seen in a dining room by the island. Even add a coloured door
as a bold departure from a mostly white color scheme. Pottery Collection Make a pottery collection the colourful focal point of a kitchen by showcasing it on open shelves. The expansive assortment of blue-andwhite striped pottery sets the tone for this kitchen. A Variety of Cabinets Install varying cabinets to make a huge difference in the overall appearance of your kitchen. A set of white cabinets stands out near a blue-and-white checkered space. Bright-Colored Pantry Door One important brightcoloured piece is often all that's needed to add originality to a kitchen. Painted red, a unique pantry door stands out against the white surfaces that surround it. Retro Kitchen A retro table and chairs set the mood and tone for this funky kitchen. With lots of white to keep the room looking sparkling clean, this palette — green on the walls, the red enamel stove, turquoise canisters and other collectibles, and cafe curtains and braided rug that combine all these colors — unifies the areas of intense colors. Gray Among White A dark-gray countertop is a great choice in an allwhite kitchen. The color also works well with the grayish-blue of the walls and small flowerpots on the windowsill. Information provided by Ansa Coatings Ltd – Brand Penta
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Flooring
Finding the right flooring for your home is easy if you know which questions to ask. At The Home Depot, we can help you ask the right questions - and then answer them with a full selection of top-quality flooring that's certain to meet your needs and your budget. First, consider the five major types of flooring: • Carpet • Laminate • Tile • Vinyl • Wood Then, ask yourself these questions:
Do you own your home, or do you rent? How long are you planning to stay?
• If you own your home, a premium floor in carpet, tile or wood may well be worth the investment, especially if you're planning to stay in your home for a number of years. • If you plan to sell your home, the right flooring will enhance its beauty, increase its value and make it easier to sell. • If you rent, choose the floor that's right for your circumstances. Consider your budget and your performance requirements, then factor in how long you plan to stay in your home.
Which room is receiving a new floor?
Understanding your room's specific needs will help you choose the right flooring. Consider these factors: • TRAFFIC - How many people use the room, and how frequently? Are there specific patterns or lanes of traffic that should be considered? Does the room open to the outdoors? If so, what kinds of materials (like soil or sand) might be tracked into the room? • USAGE - What activities take place in the room, and how often? How might each of these activities either affect or be affected by the room's flooring? (Plush carpeting may be ideal for a mas-
ter bedroom, where traffic is low, while laminate might be good for a laundry room, where water is a factor.) • PETS - Will pets use the room? The number and kinds of pets you have may make certain types of flooring more appropriate than others. • SAFETY - Will young children, disabled people or elderly people be using the room? In a children's playroom, for example, a carpet that's soft to land on makes sense - but not so soft that it's slippery. Wheelchairs need a firm surface to move easily, so plush carpets may not work while shorter, denser loop carpets or a vinyl floor may be perfect.
What type of look is important to you?
• Does the style, colour or pattern of the flooring you are considering match the mood and activities of your room? • Does the flooring reflect your decorating preferences? Matters of style are just as important as traffic or usage.
How do you want your flooring to feel underfoot?
• Will anyone be standing or walking for a long time on the floor? If so, the comfort offered by a resilient or cushioned floor may be important. Vinyl's natural resilience makes vinyl floors very comfortable. Hardwood floors are also resilient, but less so than vinyl. Laminate floors achieve remarkable comfort by "floating" on top of a cushioning system that absorbs the stress of each step and then rebounds, giving a slight spring to your step. • Is the feel of the floor important? If people will frequently sit or lounge on the floor, how it feels is very important. If people will mostly just walk on the floor, its durability and resistance to dirt may be more important than its feel. • If you choose carpet, a premium carpet pad will ensure maximum comfort underfoot. A thicker, denser pad will feel softer and more resilient, and will prolong the life of your carpet. A premium carpet pad also muffles noise better than other pads and provides the best insulation. Courtesy homedepot.com
Flooring
Tile Your Kitchen Floor
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HOW-TO
Tiles are considered an attractive and practical flooring solution for any kitchen. Here's a step-bystep guide to set your floor tiles.
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Set the tiles into the adhesive bed. Embed them with moderate pressure for a secure bond.
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Set tile spacers to maintain the grid layout. These may need to be removed before grouting.
Tools:
• Measuring tape
• Notched trowel
• Mallet • Layout stick
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Materials:
• Tile spacers • Tile adhesives • Tile
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Use a notched trowel that leaves ribs of adhesive to spread up to your guidelines.
A dry layout takes time but it helps you visualise how field tiles will fit in the room.
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Check the alignment every few rows or so with a layout stick that accounts for grout joints.
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To mark edge cuts, set a tile on top of the full edge and use another tile to mark the margin.
Cut along the mark using a snap cutter and set the newly cut edge tile in adhesive.
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Windows & Doors
Beyond Drapery Limited Phone: 868-678-3414 Email: beyonddrapery@tstt.net.tt Website: www.beyonddrapery.com Blog: www.beyonddrapery.com/blog/ www.facebook.com/BeyondDraperyLimited
A simple kitchen
Select modern fabric and trim and you have a cost effective, contemporary valance for over your blinds. This valance can be used in any room. Fabric and trim selection can dress up or dress down this versatile valance. To make a 48 inch wide valance follow these simple instructions.
Valance You will need: • • • • •
2.5 yds fabric 45 to 60” wide Matching thread and / or fabric glue 2.75 yds trim / fringe 1 X 4 lumber 48 inches wide Stapler and staples
1. Cut fabric 90 inches x 45 inches. 2. Fold fabric in half, right sides together along the 90 inch length. 3. Sew or glue sides together with a 1/4 inch seam, leaving a 12 inch space in the centre of the 84 inch side for turning. 4. Turn fabric right side out and press. 5. Glue trim to 3 sides: that is, all sides except the side where you left the opening.
6. Fold the valance along the long side and mark the centre on the side with the opening. 7. Mark the centre of the board 8. Centre the valance on the centre of the board 9. Staple the valance toward the back of the board. The top of the board will be covered with the valance and the valance will drop 21 inches off both sides and 18 inches off the front of the board. 10.Hang your valance with L-brackets, centred over your window and arrange the sides in folds. 11. You can also shape the lower edge of the valance for a variation.
INSTALL SWINGING HOW TO PASSAGEWAY DOORS Step-bo-Step Guide: 1. Round the Edges Using a jack plane or a router, round the edges on both sides of the door. (Fig. 1)
1st Avenue Orchard Gardens,
Chaguanas. (opposite Medford’s Gas station) Tel: 868-672-4609 Fax: 868-672-7914 OPENING HOURS MON-FRI 9AM-5PM SAT: 9AM-3PM
WIDEST RANGE OF CURTAIN RODS IN THE COUNTRY SINGLE RODS FROM AS LOW AS $125 (COMPLETE SET ) DOUBLE RODS FROM AS LOW AS $295 ( COMPLETE) ALSO AVALIALE WOODEN RODS, TRAVERSE RODS,VALENCE RODS, BAY WINDOW RODS, ARCH RODS, TENSION RODS,CAFE RODS WITH MANY COLOURS AND SIZES TO CHOOSE FROM.
Also available aluminium blinds from as low as $150 and wooden blinds from $695.
Wide range of mouldings and medallions to choose from –prices from as low as $ 30 a length. 0921021
2. Lay Out the Hinges On the head jamb, mark the top pivot location at the distance from the hinge-side jamb specified by the hinge manufacturer. Use a combination square to extend the mark across the width of the head jamb, then suspend a plumb bob from the centre of this line. Next, measure the distance between the side jamb and the plumb line at several points. If the distance is less than the door clearance given by the manufacturer, adjust the location of the top pivot accordingly. Mark the point where the plumb bob touches the floor. (Fig. 2) 3. Align the Pivot Plate Measure the distance from the centre of the pivot to one end and one side of the pivot plate. Make a mark on the floor at the same distances from the plumb bob mark. Align the pivot plate with these marks, centre it over the plumb bob mark, and then outline the plate on the floor. (Fig. 3) 4. Install the Top Pivot Drill a hole in the head jamb at the location of the top pivot to accommodate the top pivot cap, and then insert the cap in the hole. Mortise a recess for the wings of the cap, similar to mortising the leaf of a standard hinge. Turn the cap over and screw it to the jamb. To locate the pivot socket in the top of the door, subtract the clearance between the door and the side jamb (as specified by the pivot hinge manufacturer) from the top pivot measurement on the head jamb. Mark this location on a centreline drawn along the top of the door, and then drill and mortise for the pivot socket. Screw the socket to the door. (Fig. 4)
A full-sized swinging door is ideal between kitchens and dining areas. It can be pushed open from either direction or can automatically swing shut when released because of its spring-operated bottom hinge. Spring hinges are secured both to the floor and the bottom edge of the door.
Tools & Materials: • Swinging door • Jack plane or router • Combination square • Plumb bob • Measuring tape • Drill • Wood screws • Screwdriver • Pencil • Handsaw • Chisel 5. Mount the Floor Hinge Starting at the bottom of the door, draw a line on the face of the door 1/2-inch from the hinge-side edge. Align the floor hinge assembly with the line and the bottom of the door. Outline the entire hinge with a pencil. At the top of the hinge, run a line across the edge of the door. Use a handsaw and a chisel to cut out all the wood within the outline. Set the hinge in the cut-out, and then fasten the hinge to the bottom of the door using wood screws. (Fig. 5) 6. Complete the Installation Lift the door and fit the pivot socket over the pivot cap. At the bottom of the door, screw the pivot plate to the floor over the outline made in step 2. Centre the door between the jambs by turning the alignment screw in the bottom hinge; then set the speed and force of the door's swing by adjusting the spring-tension nut. Finally, cover the hinge and the gap at the bottom corner of the door using the trim plates provided by the manufacturer. (Fig. 6)
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September/October, 2012 www.guardian.co.tt Sunday Guardian
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Lighting & Ceiling
HOW-TO Lighting Installation Guide Christine Dalkan
INSTALLING TASK LIGHTING TO YOUR WALL OR CEILING
• First, assemble your fixture. • Then make the connection with the wires inside your fixture. • Install your fixture with your bracket to your ceiling or to the wall. • Make the connection with the black wire in your fixture to the red wire in the wall or ceiling, and the white wire in your fixture to the black wire in the wall or ceiling. • Secure properly with connectors and electrical tape.
INSTALLING UNDER-CABINET TASK LIGHTING
• Assemble your fixture. You can get your electrician to run the wires to where you want to install the task lighting. • Install your bracket. Then run your wires – black to the positive wire, white to the negative. • Secure with connectors and electrical tape. The electrical tape is to secure the connectors in place. Install fixture onto bracket and screw it into place.
TRICK OF THE TRADE: If you can’t identify which wires in your home are positive or negative, look for the wire with the masking tape stuck to one side. This wire is positive; it’s a method most electricians use to
identify which wire is positive. IMPORTANT: If during the installation process, you are not sure about what you are doing, maybe it’s a job for the electrician. You may also be confused as to the colour coding of the wires (white and black) described above. Many lighting fixtures are being manufactured with this colour coding, instead of the red and black wires of long ago. White: negative, black: positive.
CEILING TASK LIGHTING
INSTALLING DIMMER SWITCHES
To install dimmer switches separately, replace your basic switch with a dimmer switch. Then connect the wires in the dimmer switch to the wires in the wall or ceiling.
UNDER-CABINET TASK LIGHTING
Information provided by Lighthouse Limited
Combination Rooms
Hello Kitchen and Dining Room! Everything in the Caribbean, whether we celebrate or mourn, is associated with food. Our hospitality is one of our well-known characteristics and we tend to usher people into our kitchen and dining spaces more than any other room in the house. In fact, the kitchen is now known as the new living space and is voted the most used room in the 21st century. If you are still in the building process, it is very easy to design your kitchen and dining areas. But for the rest of us here are some tips on making your kitchen and dining your new DESIGN FOCUS WITH DARREL DOOKOO living space: Take some walls out. Gone are the days when we built our kitchen downstairs or a separate building from the main living quarters. In today’s world, cooking is part of the
lime and is an integral part of entertaining. So by combining your cooking and entertaining areas you can easily get the best of both rooms. Add Window Space: Some rooms are divided by a concrete wall that can’t be easily taken down. If removal of the wall is not an option try putting a window space so that people from the kitchen and dining room can communicate. And the two shall become one. Harmonising both rooms can be easily achieved once you match your colours with your décor. Here’s how: • Painting both rooms in the same colour or using the same floor application throughout. • Add decor accents. Try sticking to the same theme for both rooms, Buying items for the dining room that com-
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plement decor items that you already have in the kitchen. • Add extra seating via movable stools, small love seats and any other innovative seating ideas that you can come up with that can complement your dining chairs. By using a few of these helpful tips you and your friends can sit in the kitchen and cooking can become part of the entertaining. Making full use of your kitchen/dining space is of utmost importance to the creating of memories that you would remember for the rest of your life. Birthday parties, anniversaries, parents coming over for dinner, your weekend limes, and the midnight cup of coffee with your lover, yes, I can see it now.
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A Universal Kitchen
Sunday Guardian www.guardian.co.tt September/October, 2012
How to Create
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If you have ever been temporarily incapacitated you get a little insight into challenges that individuals with physical disabilities experience dayto-day. When building or renovating our homes we seldom think about making it accessible and friendly for people with physical challenges. This is especially so if we or our loved ones are not currently affected. If you are renovating or doing new construction, I suggest that you make your home universally accessible. Accessibility challenges are not only the concern of the physically disabled. The unexpectedly injured, chronically ill, or aged can all have challenges of safely navigating and using their home. Today we focus on kitchens as we consider a few how-tos for universal kitchen design. MOBILITY. Consider your current kitchen. How easy will it be to move around if you were using a walker, crutches or a wheelchair? Think about it. You are all alone and you need to prepare a meal? Have you begun to panic yet? Ensure that your kitchen has a wheelchair turning radius of 60 inches (25 square feet) to allow for a full 360 degree turn. In doing so you would provide enough manoeuvring space for walkers and crutches as well. What about the doorway? Cater for a 36 inch opening. More is better.
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You can move around, but can you function? Are the things you need accessible to you? Standard floor cabinets are 36 inches high. If you are on a wheelchair the countertop will be virtually inaccessible to you. I suggest you install countertops of varying heights, of height adjustable countertops, if the kitchen is to be used by others as well. A height of 30 to 32 inches will provide comfortable knee access for most wheelchair users. A 6 inches, the recommended toe kick height is 2 inches higher than standard. Sink cabinets and cooktop areas should be designed so a wheelchair can roll all the way under them. You will need about a 30 inch wide space that allows for a minimum knee clearance of 27 inches. Appliances will also have to be positioned differently. Separate cooktop and ovens over greater flexibility. Prefer
side hinged ovens and position them about 31 inches off the floor. Lower stove tops to allow easy access to rear burners and look for front controls. Raise the dishwasher 6 inches and ensure all the baskets can slide out. The doors of a side-by-side refrigerator takes up less real estate when open and the freezers are more accessible. Consider ice and water dispensers for the doors. SAFETY. Install non-slip floor surfaces. Place grab bars close to appliances and primary work zones. Use glare-free lighting and low-gloss counter and cabinet surfaces. Round off corners of counters and cabinets. Prefer electrical cooktops with glass or ceramic surfaces so you are not exposed to an open flame and pots will be easier to move across the surface. With front controls you will not have to reach across hot burners. If you have impaired vision there are appliances with Braille lettering and push button controls. For anyone with problems with their sense of smell electrical appliances will eliminate you not being able to detect a gas leak. Accessible sinks should be about 5 to 6.5 inches deep. Shield the hot water pipes and the garbage disposal unit to prevent injuries. Prefer faucets with single extended lever controls that are about 10 inches or more long. Pull out spray heads are also helpful. Lower all switches to between 3 to 4 feet and place electrical outlets no lower than 15 inches off the floor. EASE OF USE. Cabinets, shelves, and countertops of varying heights or that raise or lower will be easier for you. Full extension pull-out shelves are helpful. Lazy Susan or carousel shelves assist in accessibility and ease of use. If shelves are fixed, they should be limited to about 12 – 16 inches deep. On cabinets, consider using doors that slide, fold or open out and slide back into grooves on the sides of the cabinet, such as those on an entertainment centre. Alternately, pull-out counters or a kitchen table can serve as an accessible work surface. If you have limited hand use, levers and large handles are easier to grasp than knobs and turn faucets. Consider push and release magnetic catches.
Outdoor Kitchens
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Building an Outdoor Kitchen Basic steps for building an Outdoor Kitchen An Outdoor Kitchen made with Allan Blocks, (or ask your local STEP 1 block supplier for alternative block solutions) is an impressive application that can easily be added to any backyard. You can build it on an existing surface like a patio, pavement or a compacted stone base. The dimensions for this outdoor kitchen are: 9.4ft. wide and 5.6 ft. deep (2.9 m by 1.7 m ). This example shows the installation steps for a 7 course high bar area with a 6 course high grill area. STEP 1: Layout Determine the location of the kitchen. RememSTEP 2 ber to leave enough space around the kitchen area to accommodate the chef and any additional seating. Then draw a guideline using chalk or tape where the wall panels of the kitchen will be constructed.
LAYOUT 1
1). STEP 3: Lay out the Second Course Begin laying STEP 3 out the second course as shown in Layout 2. You will need to split two AB York Blocks and an AB Dublin End-Split Block to complete this course. Save any remaining split pieces to be used on the next course.
sure you have a proper fit. STEP 5: Building the Fourth Course Install the fourth course in the same manner as the previous courses following the pattern in Layout 4,
LAYOUT 4
LAYOUT 2
STEP 2: Lay out the First Course Lay out the first course of blocks as seen in Layout 1. Use a square to line up the blocks to ensure your corners are square. An AB York Block and an AB Dublin Block will need to be split for this course. Save the other half of the split AB Dublin for use on the third course. A corner block will also need to be cut at an angle so that the blocks match up on the end (Figure
INEX CONSULTANTS The Design Specialist
STEP 6
STEP 4
BEFORE
STEP 4: Building the Third Course Construct the third course as shown in Layout 3, splitting the AB York and AB Dublin Blocks as needed. A corner block will again need to be cut at the end of the wall, see Figure 1. We recommend measuring the distance on your project before cutting to make
splitting blocks as needed. STEP 6: Building the Fifth Course Install the fifth course in the same manner as the previous courses following the pattern in Layout 5, splitting blocks as needed. This is the last course to be built in this manner. The next two courses will have additional modifications to complete the project. STEP 7: Building the Grill Area In this example the wall panel behind the grill is one course lower than the bar area panel to allow for movement of the grill hood (Figure 2). On this course you will need to flip the blocks over along the
LAYOUT 3
AFTER
CONTINUED ON PAGE 30 LAYOUT 5
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STEP 5
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Outdoor Kitchens
Building an Outdoor Kitchen
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 29
LAYOUT 6
STEP 7
first post/pillar and the back wall of the grill area**. This will allow the countertop to be flush and level when installed. ** Flip the blocks over so that the raised rings go into the holes on the previous course. STEP 8: Building the Raised Bar Once you have reached your desired height of the grilling area, it is now time to finish the raised bar. Underneath the bar is a perfect spot to place a mini refrigerator or add shelves for storage. To build the top course of the bar, you will need to flip these blocks over to create a
level surface for the courtertop. Install the blocks using the pattern in Layout 7. STEP 9: Finishing Now that the construction of the kitchen frame is complete, it is time to install your countertop material. In this example we used concrete slabs that are cut to size. However any outdoor countertop material will work, so choose a countertop that fits your design. Set your countertops in place and check for level. Shims may be used if adjustments are necessary. Secure the countertops in
place with masonry adhesive, move your grill into place and you are ready to fire up the BBQ! *NOTE: A larger opening will be needed if your grill is a larger size than the one shown in this example. To increase the width of the grill area opening, add additional blocks and or split blocks to your wall panel to enlarge the grill area. The minimum increment you can increase your width by is approximately 4 in. (102 mm).
STEP 9
MATERIALS NEEDED: • 73 AB York Blocks • 31 AB Dublin Blocks • 67 Corner Blocks • 2 Tubes of Masonry Adhesive. • Outdoor Countertops (cut to size).
LAYOUT 6
TOOLS NEEDED: • Tape Measure • Masking Tape • Chalk Line • Hammer & Chisel • Masonry Saw • Safety Glasses • Dust Mask & Work Gloves
FINISHED
Safety
Outdoor Kitchen Safety Halcian Pierre
Watching many home improvement shows, you’re bound to come across an episode where a homeowner has their heart set on having an outdoor kitchen, but they have no idea how to go about creating one. Usually, the main focus is having an eclectic yet functional spot that serves as both an eating area and an entertainment space, which can lend itself to many themed parties and get-togethers. Most of these spaces combine high end cooking ranges, gas grills, charcoal barbecue pits and also a brick oven (especially if the person is into making pizzas and artisan breads on a heated stone). Once built however, some tend to forget that just like a regular kitchen you have to have certain safety measures put into place. With high end appliances and kitchen equipment to look after, housing them in outdoor spaces means they are more susceptible to certain risks, especially from high winds, pets and pests, and yes, even children. This is why in the majority of cases appliances (both electrical and those using gas) are placed against walls or are enclosed. Also, during cooking, there needs to be some sort of vigilance going on at all times; large open flames no longer have the “wall protection� from shifting winds. A few important safety rules, then, should always be observed when maintaining your outdoor kitchen space.
Brace kitchen furniture
Verify that the furniture in your outdoor kitchen is stable on its own, particularly if children are on the guest list (they love climbing). Anchor furniture to the floor to prevent it from being pulled over or knocked down.
Mind your electrical cords
Get longer cords and route them along the walls and out of high traffic areas, and position cords out of children's reach. In addition, don't use extension cords that are cut or damaged.
Don't overload the outlets
The extra set of speakers, additional lighting, and margarita blender may seem a great idea, until they are plugged in and trip an electrical breaker or start a fire. Don't plug too many cords into an outlet or power strip, and read the manufacturer's instructions for the electric equipment and appliances you plan to use for your kitchen
Grill safe
For those outdoor cookouts or adventurous grilling, keep the grill outdoors and a safe distance from the house (about 10 feet).
Stand by your pan
Stay in the kitchen while food is cooking. Most fires in the kitchen occur because food is left unattended. If you must momentarily leave the kitchen (or walk away from the grill), carry an oven mitt or another cooking utensil with you as a reminder that something is cooking.
Create safety zones
First, invite a manageable number of guests to avoid overcrowding your outdoor space. Then limit the number of people in high-risk areas, such as near the stove or grill. This is especially important if children are invited to the party. Pay particular attention to sharp corners and small objects, and be sure pathways are clear of items that could cause children (and adults) to trip.
Always think safety
Keeping your home safe should be a year-round mission. Be sure to purchase only products that have been tested for safety. For example, look for the UL Mark on electronics; products that bear the UL Mark mean representative samples have been tested to UL's rigorous safety standards and found to be free of foreseeable safety hazards. And lastly, keep a fire extinguisher handy at all times, just in case.
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Sunday Guardian www.guardian.co.tt September/October, 2012
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