Choosing Cabinetry and Countertops for a Dream Kitchen
by Janet Riley
What an amazing experience! Since I won Atlanta Home Improvement’s “I Want a Beautiful Kitchen” Contest, I’ve had total strangers hug me in congratulations. I’ve heard lots of “I’ve never won anything. Good for you!” I’ve been surprised by the number of people who’ve been genuinely happy for me – people who don’t even know me are happy about my new kitchen! I have to say, that feels really good.
I’ve spent some time in stores and on the web studying sinks and faucets; and looking at endless varieties of granite and cabinetry. It can get confusing after awhile. But, I’ll have to tell you that the folks at Kitchen Fronts of Georgia know their stuff. A little over two weeks ago, their representative arrived at my home to let me know what my options were for NEW cabinet and drawer fronts. I chose coffee-glazed light maple for cabinets, and the hardware is sort of a matte-finish dark bronze.
I really didn’t know how this cabinet thing was going to work. How was all that white suddenly going to become maple? Well, I learned that they cover all the exposed surfaces with maple veneers and replace the doors and drawers with solid wood. Hurrah!! No more white kitchen for me. After measuring counters and counting doors and drawers and writing everything down, it was discovered I was a little bit over the allotted amount. I was surprised and very grateful when Mr. Apple of Kitchen Fronts called me a couple days later to say they were going to overlook that additional amount. Not only are they great at what they do, they are also very kind people. Thank you, thank you to Kitchen Fronts of GA!
Next came the countertop. The appointment at Premier Surfaces was another educational experience. I learned a lot about granite and other natural stones. Their warehouse is full of beautiful choices, and I had a really hard time making my final selection for the granite to go into my new DREAM kitchen. When Adam suggested we carry the small maple cabinet sample out to the showroom, it got a lot easier to finally decide. Great idea, Adam! I chose Sedema Beige granite. It’s a lighter color with lots of “flow” and unique qualities. My kitchen is pretty large (hence, the budget issues) and will accommodate granite with larger patterns. I’m excited about the choices I’ve made and can’t wait to see how it all goes together.
I’ve already bought a new undermount sink (ordered online at a great savings) and am awaiting delivery of a new faucet (Ebay). Before the work starts, I must empty ALL the cabinets and drawers. What a good time to clean out the junk drawer and reorganize those top shelves.
Here’s one last look at the pitiful Make-do Kitchen “before.” I can’t wait to post the progress and the “after” pics. Til then, thank you again to everyone who made this possible for me.
Check out a dream Old World kitchen in Atlanta.