Ciara Cabinet Designs

Kitchen Design People Comment On Miami Herald Story

2009-11-12T08:55:00.000-08:00

Ciara Cabinet Designs commented on a story in the Miami Herald talking about un-licensed contractors in South Florida. It's very important for people to use someone that is a licensed general contractor in South Florida to ensure the work will be done properly. Home renovations are on the rise as the real estate market picks up. Be careful of who you select.

South Florida General Contractor Sees Home Improvements Increase

2009-08-31T12:49:00.000-07:00

A leading South Florida general contractor, released information about demand improving. Ciara Cabinet Designs announced they have seen increase in business as snow bird return to South Florida. "a leading South Florida general contractor, released information about demand improving," said Zahava Morag, CEO.

Eco-Friendly Kitchen Cabinets And New Cabinets For South Florida

2009-05-20T15:54:00.000-07:00

Ciara Cabinet Designs now offers eco-friendly kitchen cabinet custom doors. The green kitchen materials help customers have the look they want without the worries of cutting down trees. These beautiful doors come in different colors, materials and give warmth to your kitchen during remodeling.

The right plan for your kitchen remodeling

2009-04-27T13:14:00.000-07:00

Kitchen design is one of the more difficult tasks, especially when remodeling an existing kitchen. People have such a complicated relationship with their kitchen that it is worth taking some time to evaluate your existing kitchen before you even start planning.
There are three basic steps to getting started on a workable plan.

A successful plan requires taking some time to really understand what you want and need about a kitchen. You can start to do right now if you are considering a kitchen renovation. The first step is to think about what you are doing in the kitchen. After a while people become so accustomed to where things are and how to reach their coffee cup in the morning that they do not look closely at whether that is as easy or as satisfying as it could be. Pay attention for a day or a week and see what really causes you pain or make you do things in a way you would rather not. .

The next thing is to figure out what your kitchen is NOT allowing you to do. For some people this will be obvious. Some will feel their kitchen keeps them in a box or doesn't have enough counter space or cabinets. Some will feel that their kitchen is not allowing them to entertain in a way they would like. This category will probably result in the biggest changes to the kitchen layout, but if there is nothing you find here then your remodel should be pretty simple. Consider ranking these items.

The final thing, and what can make a kitchen remodel successful while others are not is to consider what surrounds the kitchen. How does the kitchen relate to the surrounding rooms? Is the relationship with the dining room the way you would like? How does it relate to where you eat informal meals? Does it connect to the outside? Understanding how your kitchen fits into your house is the first step in changing that relationship for the better. Clients are often torn between the low cost of keeping things sort of the way they are, and the higher cost of actually moving things around so that they work well. Our experience, learned the hard way of course, is that sticking with an existing layout that you are not really happy with is going to be a mistake. You will end up with the same old kitchen with perhaps some new finishes and appliances and your frustration with the way the kitchen works for you will remain. Working with Ciara Cabinet Designs can help you make the right plan for your kitchen remodeling.

Still Looking For A General Contractor?

2009-03-16T07:22:00.000-07:00

There is a great website that helps you find a licensed general contractor. They pair clients up with companies depending on the project. It takes three easy steps, tell them about your project, they contact you to confirm the information, then you'll have four licensed general contractors contacting you and placing bids on the work you want done.

Trends in Kitchen Design

2009-02-24T06:36:00.001-08:00

Move.com has created a list of some of the hottest trends they are finding in kitchen designs. This article was written by Diana Lundin.

They include:
• Granite countertops
• Decorative backsplashes
• Glass-front cabinets
• Stainless steel and white appliances
• Turquoise and pink
• Round or oval tables
• Hardwood floors

Kitchen Makeovers And Functionality

2009-02-19T09:33:00.001-08:00

Most designers will agree that the kitchen is the most important room in the house. It is the center place where most families spend family quality time. It's one of the first places that people will look at when purchasing a home.

Ciara Cabinet Designs says,"when having a kitchen makeover, be sure that it is functional and a working one. It is important to undertake a logical planning process to ensure that cabinets, countertops, backsplash and flooring match and the appliances are placed in a way so that the kitchen can be used efficiently and effectively."

Kitchen Cabinet Plans And Free Consultations

2008-10-28T07:35:00.000-07:00

Ciara Cabinet Designs has created a new program developing kitchen cabinet plans including kitchen backsplash and cabinet ideas. Using computer generated drawings, the Boca Raton based company is able to show customers thier designs without taking down any walls.

FORMALDEHYDE IN YOUR HOME

2008-10-13T10:08:00.000-07:00

Formaldehyde is a colorless gas used in home building materials and household products. It is also a by-product of burning fuels and other natural events. This means it can be present in high levels both indoors and outdoors.

In the home, pressed wood products are the major source of formaldehyde. These products are used for shelving, in cabinetry and furniture, and in hardwood and plywood paneling. Medium density fiberboard is the greatest source of formaldehyde in pressed wood products. Other sources of formaldehyde in the home include:

* Building materials
* Smoke
* Household products
* Use of un-vented, fuel-burning appliances, like gas stoves

The National Cancer Institute has all the information needed about the health effects of formaldehyde and how they can range from watery, burning eyes to nausea and trouble breathing. High levels may trigger attacks in people with asthma. It has also been shown to cause cancer in animals and may cause cancer in humans. Take these steps to reduce your exposure to formaldehyde in your home:

* Ask about the content of pressed wood products before you purchase them. This includes building materials, cabinets and furniture.

* Keep your home at a comfortable temperature with good ventilation. Formaldehyde is release faster in hot conditions.

Ciara Cabinet Designs, Inc. joined by Cuisines Laurier cabinets of Quebec,

Canada offer a formaldehyde-free Hardwood Plywood box, certified by the HPVA to be CARB Phase 2 Compliant, meeting the formaldehyde emission limit of .05 ppm or less.

The “Tierra” style veneer slab door is made with formaldehyde free particleboard and is available in many standard wood species, exotic wood species or “green” species (easily renewable).

(See our blog on “green” species.)

Tips for designing small kitchens

2008-09-17T13:46:00.000-07:00

When it comes to small kitchen remodeling, there are many things you need to consider. As everyone knows the selection of the appropriate kitchen appliances and adequate lighting can play a very big role in the final design of your kitchen. However, when remodeling your kitchen, don’t forget about kitchen cabinets and sink designs because they bring everything together.

One of the best small kitchen remodeling ideas consists of the installation of a pantry cabinet that extends high up to the ceiling. One suggestion to refinement your kitchen, choose light color cabinet that has glass doors. For storing the kitchen appliances, look for counters that serve as a great storage space and accommodate more appliances. These will offer depth and possible hidden components making for great storage in the kitchen.

The appliances should need to be inspected very carefully to meet the kitchen space and not overpower the space. Sinks should be round and big. Choose a large size kitchen sink, it’s more practical; you can easily keep all the big size pots and pans in it and clean them nicely.

To make your kitchen appear roomier, opt for the lighting options that sit under the cabinets or countertops. Another way of giving your kitchen a bigger look is to install diagonal flooring tiles.

These ideas will not only make the functioning more efficient, but also create a charming look to your kitchen. For more information and renovating and remodeling tips, visit the National Kitchen and Bath Association.

Remodeling Kitchen Countertops

2008-09-10T07:58:00.000-07:00

Remodeling your kitchen countertops is a major project and it can get very expensive. When taking on this project, make sure you understand the details before you begin. Kitchen countertops can help define the style of your kitchen and be the focal point of your house.

Whether you want a modern look or a traditional look to your kitchen, there is a wide selection of countertop materials that will be right for you. To make sure you are dealing with a reputable company you can look them up at the Better Business Bureau .

Here are some of the kitchen contertop materials that are available and we install for our clients:
Granite, Concrete, Quartz, Tile, Marble, Wood, Solid Surface, Glass and Stainless Steel.

If you have any questions about what will fit your budget and design, contact us for more information and an in-home free consultation and free estimate for all your home remodeling and construction needs.

Basic Tips for Room Addition

2008-09-02T08:35:00.000-07:00

Basic Tips for Room Addition
The first step in planning a room addition is to decide on a layout that fits your and your family’s lifestyle. In order to heighten the appeal and the value of your home, be sure to include the following important basics.
The room should be attached to the house, connected to the existing roof. Try to have operable windows on at least two walls to maximize the flow of fresh air. Make sure your air conditioning unit is big enough to accommodate the new room, possibly adding a ceiling fan to have even airflow. Consider high impact windows and doors instead of hurricane shutters; insurance companies give a big discount on your home insurance premium
You can also use semi-transparent blinds that will still allow some light to shine through while providing shade simultaneously.
Ciara Cabinet Designs can help you find a certified contractor to do an all-inclusive project from architectural plan - to permit - to electrical design – to a general contractor who can supply you with a turn-key job.

As a reference, you can also visit these association's below:
www.buildingtradesdir.com
www.agcfl.org

Kitchens And Bathroom Remodeling Booming

2008-08-26T06:28:00.000-07:00

Many South Floridians are seeking alternatives to selling their homes. Ciara Cabinet Designs is helping many homeowners with home improvement projects including whole house remodel and additions as home prices continue to decline. The company is able to use computer generated designs to create custom kitchen cabinet layouts give people the exact look they want.

Selecting The Right Appliances For Your Kitchen And Home

2008-08-20T13:40:00.000-07:00

Appliances are the workhorses of your kitchen and house. Together, they will add up to about ten percent of your kitchen renovation budget. This figure is amazingly low, considering the technological advances and energy efficiencies that today's appliances offer. While features and performance are obviously the most important considerations in choosing appliances, how they'll look in your kitchen probably matters to you, too.

Your options for appliance designs include; built-in, paneled, freestanding professional-style, freestanding restored or reproduction antiques or standard freestanding models. A new neutral is stainless steel appliances which work well in all styles of kitchens, from Old World to contemporary to Mediterranean to traditional.

The stove is probably one of the most important appliances in the kitchen. You should select a stove that has burners and ovens that are accessible. There are several brand name stove manufacturers like Jennair, GE and Frigidaire that designed their stoves so that the knobs or push-button controls are in the front of the stove, so you don’t have to reach across hot burners to reach controls.

Choose models that help to save energy, it helps to reduce the amount of natural resources used each day. There is also a larger assortment to choose from in the energy saving designs than in any of the more traditional models. These appliances are constantly being improved and upgraded to make them even better. You should have no problem with finding a style and color to match your kitchen design.

Useful resources:

Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers

Association of Appliance and Equipment manufacturers

How to Choose Kitchen Cabinets

2008-08-15T11:41:00.000-07:00

How to Choose kitchen Cabinets

Picking out cabinets for your new or remodeled kitchen is not an open and shut matter. The choices for door style, wood, finish and options are endless.
Cabinets can add up to 70 percent of a kitchen's cost, so research your options for the best return on your investment.

Analyze your kitchen layout and your family's lifestyle and cooking habits. Plot what you need to store and display, as well as accessories that will simplify and organize your kitchen activities.

Last and most important, get professional guidance from a kitchen designer. You want someone who works together with a general contractor, this will help with the remodeling of your kitchen. Narrow your style and component choices and make the most of your space.

New Website Helping Promote South Florida Businesses

2008-08-15T10:44:00.000-07:00

SouthFloridaStartUps.com has launched a new website promoting new businesses from Miami to West Palm Beach. They will provide information for people on how to start a business in South Florida and help promote businesses that are already here.

Bathroom designs and remodeling

2008-08-13T12:33:00.000-07:00

Probably the greatest challenge in remodeling a bathroom is figuring out how to achieve style and building in the features you want within the limits of what is probably the smallest room in the house. A second limiting factor is existing plumbing and electrical wiring. Remodeling a bathroom is relatively easy if you don't have to move them. If you make radical changes in the existing layout, you'll need to investigate whether or not you can build what you want without making structural changes. Keep in mind that you may need a building permit.

There are a number of general issues you should consider before you begin designing your new bathroom:
• Think about the layout in your existing bathroom and decide which are the most serious problems you want to fix?
• If more than one person uses the bathroom at the same time, for example, is there adequate counter space, or do you need a second sink or a shower compartment for greater privacy?
• Is there enough storage space for everyone who uses the bathroom? Do vanity doors or drawers interfere with opening and closing the bathroom door?

From the plumber's point of view, the best bathroom layout is one that has all the rough plumbing–water supply and drain-waste-vent pipes–all in one wall. A "wet wall," as it is called, not only saves materials, but also makes it a lot easier to make repairs if needed.

Electrical outlets and switches are usually easier to move than plumbing pipes, provided there is reasonable access to the wiring. Likewise with heating ducts–if you can get to the duct, isn't too much trouble to relocate the vent. Keep in mind, however, that any mechanical changes you make will cost extra.

Think about the maintenance problems you have in your existing bathroom–stained grout, mildew, soap buildup, etc. Some materials look great when they're brand new, but don't weather very well in a high-moisture location. As you choose materials, make sure they are waterproof and washable–resilient vinyl flooring, for example, fiberglass tub surround and semi-gloss enamel paint will all wear well.

Energy and water conservation: Your hot water heater is one of the largest energy hogs in the house, and the toilet uses more water than any other single fixture. Consider installing low-flow shower heads and insulating hot water pipes. The extra money you spend on an ultra-low-flush toilet will often come back in the first year in reduced water bills.

Choose the right contractor who has enough experiences and knowledge to achieve your bathroom designs and complete your project on time.
Kitchen and Bath Business
www.kbbonline.com

Latest Hot Kitchen Design Ideas

2008-08-07T16:14:00.000-07:00

Kitchen designs of late have crossed the preset barrier of being a place only meant for cooking; today, innovative inputs are shaping them into a hub that can support, serve and shape a lot of household activities - even entertainment. Primarily, it’s because kitchens are no more the dingy, poorly-lit spaces where smoke hangs heavy from the ceiling; on the contrary, today’s kitchens are well lit, open places with sizes and designs complimenting and addressing a family’s lifestyle.

The rudimentary function of a kitchen still remains the same, but besides cooking, it also provides for additional dining spaces as well as a place for entertainment. Consider combining the kitchen with a family room that’s adjacent by taking down the wall formerly separating the two.

Of all the modern kitchen remodeling trends, it’s the furniture-style cabinetry that has become the most popular one. The furniture look is due to legs (bun feet) the cabinets are given as well as adding corbels and moldings. Solid hardwoods like maple, cherry and exotics are most popular with light/vibrant finishes like white, ivory-white, oyster or cranberry outrunning the deep, rich browns and pastel shades.

Sinks are an integral part of any kitchen. However, the new kitchen design ideas are putting more emphasis on under-mounted sinks to incorporate a cleaner look. Built-in refrigerators are fast becoming popular as much as the European-style dishwashers, warming drawers, as well as the convection/microwave ovens, many of which can receive decorator panels to match the cabinetry.

Decorate your kitchen in a manner that depicts your style statement as well as your personal taste. So, go ahead and design the kitchen of your dreams that exhibits your creativity and talent.

National kitchen & bath association.

Granite counter tops cleaning tips

2008-07-29T06:55:00.000-07:00

Tips and Warnings on Cleaning Granite Counter tops From Top Associations:

National Building Granite Association and EGA Elberton Granite Association

A scratch on your granite countertop should only be removed or repaired by a professional.
All beverage glasses should be placed on coasters to prevent any etchings or stains on the stone surface. Many everyday foods and drinks, such as alcohol or citrus juices, contain acids that can leave a mark!
Trivets and mats are a great buy! Hot items should never be directly placed on the granite surface. In addition, placemats work great under china, ceramics, silver, or other scratch-prone objects.
Common cleaning sprays that include lemon, vinegar, or other acids should not be used on marble or limestone. Polished marble or granite can be dulled by strong detergents as well.
The following harsh cleaners should never be used: dry cleansers, polish/rub powders, and “soft” cleansers.
Certain cleaning products should not be mixed; for example, an ammonia and bleach combination is toxic.

Finding the Right Contractor

2008-07-24T08:43:00.000-07:00

Finding the Right Contractor in South Florida: Here are 7 Easy Steps!

The best way to find a qualified General Contractor is through a personal recommendation from friends, neighbors or a local building supply dealer. Other sources might be computer on-line, magazine, newspaper or telephone directory advertisements.
Using a list of several possibilities, call each one to inquire if they are covered for worker’s compensation, personal liability and property damage.
If you are satisfied with their responses, make appointments for a meeting at their office or showroom. Ask for a list of satisfied clients and pay attention to the aura of the office. Are they organized and business-like but friendly and willing to help you with your questions? Also, ask to see why type of remodeling and construction they have done.
Some questions might include “How long have you been in business in this location?”, “If you will be working on other projects, do you have enough supervisors and workers to complete my job quickly?” and “Can you estimate how long my project will take from start to completion?” "Are you a member of any local building associations?"
After the meeting, call their former clients and ask how satisfied they were with the workmanship, punctuality of the workers and supervision. Also, if there were major cost over-runs caused by the Contractor’s under-bidding and if the project was completed in a timely manner.
When you have made a decision on which General Contractor to use, ask to see the Contractor’s license and Insurance carrier and agency so you can check the coverage.
When the job is complete, if you feel dissatisfied, cheated or mis-led, you can launch a formal complaint with the Contractor’s license board and request a hearing.

Good Hunting!!

South Florida General Conntractor Knowledgeable and Professional

2008-07-19T08:05:00.000-07:00

South Florida general contractor licensed and insured with over 30 years of experience.

For your convenience, we are delighted to provide free in-home consultations and free estimates on the spot!

Our top notch team will coordinate your remodeling project, reinforcing our basic premise that a superior scheduling program benefits the homeowner by completing the project in timely and professional manner.

We handle complete renovations, including kitchen and bath remodeling work that will replace your old cabinetry with fine, modern cabinets. We also do electric, plumbing, bathroom renovations, flooring, driveway pavers, painting, and so much more.

Welcome To The South Florida Home Remodeling Blog

2008-07-12T08:04:00.000-07:00

Welcome South Florida homeowners!!! Ciara Cabinet Designs will show you the latest trends in kitchen designs, bathroom remodeling, room additions and home renovations for the Palm Beach, Broward and Dade Counties.

Ciara Cabinet Designs is a family owned business with over 15 years of home remodeling and design experience. We provide countless services to our clients including free home-consultations and free estimates on kitchen, bathroom and other design services. We have a construction division called Gold Star Home Improvement who has a Florida General Contractors License and is insured throughout the state. We listen to our customers' requests and requirements using state of the art computer generated drawings.