Sink faucets have come a long way in recent years. Current models offer detachable sprayers, hidden soap or lotion dispensers and touch-sensitive, knob-free operation. Faucets also come in a wide variety of finishes and styles, from formal Victorian to ultra modern, making it easy to coordinate the faucet with your home’s decor.

Painting your existing cabinets is an inexpensive update that even a newbie DIYer can handle. Some sandpaper, paintbrushes and a few gallons of primer and paint are all you need to give your kitchen a fresh, new look.

Every kitchen could use more storage. This cleverly concealed drawer provides the perfect place to keep cooking necessities within easy reach of the stove. Built-in storage like this can be a costly addition. To keep costs down, check your local hardware store for pull-out storage kits and drawer organizers that will fit your existing cabinets.

In addition to improving the overall look, the right lighting also makes a kitchen more functional and appear larger. Brighten up by adding under-counter illumination, task lighting above work surfaces and ambient lighting, such as recessed lights. This kitchen uses all three to great effect.

Adding a tile backsplash, even trendy glass tile, is a relatively simple DIY project. Many home improvement and tile supply stores offer free, hands-on classes to teach you the basics.

New flooring can change the feel of your kitchen. Hardwoods lend a warm, traditional look while natural stone, such as marble or travertine, adds a polished vibe. This kitchen mixes the two for a modern finish.

An island provides additional cabinets, a handy location for a sink or stove and the perfect spot for a casual meal or keeping an eye on the kids while they finish up homework. This cottage-style kitchen beautifully combines vintage-style details with a modern, open-concept layout.

Appliances are more than just your kitchen’s workhorse, they also add to the overall look. Professional-grade stainless steel continues to be the most desirable. Also hot are retro-look appliances from the ’20s – ’50s.

Replacing the kitchen cabinets offers a great opportunity to customize them based on your lifestyle. This built-in hutch and buffet provides an attractive space for displaying treasured dishware in the glass-front cabinets while the countertop below can be used as a buffet when entertaining.

If your budget allows, a complete kitchen remodel is the way to go. New flooring, electrical, cabinets and plumbing allows the opportunity to create a more functional layout. Although it can be costly, removing walls separating the kitchen from adjacent living spaces is a popular option for those desiring an open floor plan.

http://www.hgtv.com/kitchens/kitchen-updates-for-any-budget/pictures/index.html?nl=HGDeco_v065_60

To read more stories related to this article by HGTV.

There are many different periods that create the “Traditional” Style, including; Chippendale, Federal Colonial, William & Mary, English, Biedermeier, Gothic, Georgian and many, many more.

As an overview of the Traditional style, the time periods consists of the 18th and 19th Century.  Heavy in wood finishes (mahogany, cherry), pieces with decorative inlay using wood, mother of pearl and gold.  

Legs of wood pieces, like dining tables, occasional tables and sofa’s can tell you a lot about the period as well.

Paneling on walls, tray ceilings, ornate ceiling medallions, and large decorative wood trim are Architectural elements to look for in Traditional settings.

Ornate mirrors dress up walls over fireplaces or standing alone on large high walls.

Fabrics associated with Traditional design include; Floral, Toile’, diamond pattern, plaid, heavy tapestry and trims edging out the upholstery.  Nail head is also a popular way to finish off upholstered sofa’s in the Traditional style.  Tufting used to be associated only with the Traditional style but is making a comeback in the “Soft Modern” style.

Colors associated with Traditional styles include, bright cheery pinks, sunny yellows, grassy greens, and also heavier colors such as; hunter green, dark blues, and deep burgundy.  Wall colors tend to be softer, allowing the upholstery and  wood casegood pieces to stand out.

Window treatments tend to be a bit heavier in style with a large range of coloring and patterns.

Decorative wallpaper is also widely used when decorating in the Traditional Style.  Stripes, floral, scroll design and mini-prints.

If you would like to find out more…email pcdesign@mac.com to get details on the style that interests you the most.

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• Interior Design Advice & Ideas
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• My Design is better than Yours!
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