There are two main types of construction for cabinets: framed and frameless. So what’s the difference and more importantly, should you care? Let’s dig in…
The backstory
A long time ago, I worked for a millwork company that had a custom division. As head of marketing, it was my job to get pictures of the beautiful, high end cabinetry they created for the division’s portfolio. I remember walking into the multi-million dollar residences that would be home to the millwork and being in awe. I’d go home at night and daydream about how I could infuse a bit of that aesthetic into my more modest floorplan.
So, one year, when the guys at the shop mentioned they were a little slow and asked if I was interested in any cabinetry to keep the schedule full (read: at a price I could actually afford), I jumped at the chance. Back then, I didn’t pay much attention to the construction of the cabinets – but I knew the look I was going for from my photo shoots.
Since then, I’ve had another set of built-ins created (with a different shop) and my kitchen remodeled using cabinetry from a commercial custom cabinet manufacturer. But each time, I choose the same construction type because it fits my Colonial-style home: framed with inset doors. And I couldn’t be happier with the result.
So, what’s your cabinet construction style? (more…)
Here’s what I am obsessed with right now: soaker tubs.
The backstory
When my husband and I bought our house 15 years ago, we were moving from an apartment in an old house in Newton where time seemed to have stopped in the ‘40s. If you were ever young and renting an apartment in the Northeast, you know what kind of house I am talking about – beautiful bones, but no updating whatsoever. Everything creaked and groaned. The wind blew right through the windows and the pipes knocked together like someone was banging on our bathroom wall every time the toilet was flushed. Every. Single. Time.
So, we were mesmerized by all the “bling” in our new (1989) house. A fridge that was actually located in the kitchen! Washer and dryer! Space! Closets! And a huge master bathroom with a two person jacuzzi-style tub. (more…)
As much as I love to shop locally, I have to admit, the convenience of shopping online can’t be beat. Who doesn’t love shopping in their pajamas? Plus, it’s so easy to compare products across many retailers in a short period of time. So, I was uber excited to learn that Wayfair is a local company!
Last year I was looking for end tables for my living room, and I couldn’t find what I was looking for (and for a price I wanted to pay) at my usual furniture haunts. So, I took a chance and pulled up wayfair.com. I was surprised at the selection and the price points they offered and settled on the set of metal and glass nesting tables you see in the pic above. The tables shipped for free (everything over $49 ships for free on the site) and arrived well packaged. It was an easy assembly task (for the Ikea veterans that we are) and once put together, the tables were surprisingly sturdy. They’ve gotten a lot of use since they were put into service last year. I love the way they look and am pleased with their versatility.* (more…)
Visiting a bath showroom is one thing you will inevitably do when remodeling your bathroom.
These meccas of all things bathroom offer nearly everything you need to create your perfect spa space: sinks, tubs, faucets, showerheads, shower enclosures, toilets, accessories and more. Some even offer cabinetry and lighting as well. Here’s what you need to know to make the most out of your experience. (more…)
