Factors to Consider When Choosing a Rug
Megan Hirsch, K.A. Menendian Rug Gallery
The best way to choose a rug for your new space is to take home several options and see them in the new room. Always visit the store with room sizes, any existing fabrics and paint colors – or, better yet, start with the rug. I always suggest trying a light, a medium, a dark and one other design very different from what the customer has in mind. What works in the space is always surprising.
The dining room is the most important room for which to have the proper-sized rug, so the chairs stay on the rug when pulled out. Add a minimum of 3 feet to the width and length of the table, 4 feet if your chairs are larger. The dining room is the one space where it is OK if the rug seems a bit large for the space because the table, not the room, determines the rug size.
For the patio, mudroom and kitchen, try an indoor-outdoor rug. For texture in the family room, try sea grass, mountain grass or sisal. For a pop of color in the living room, an over-dyed vintage rug in a bright color or a shiny silk rug made from recycled saris. In the bedroom, go big with a soft geometric Moroccan rug or a subtle wool and silk Tibetan rug. In the dining room, get the vintage look with a sheared, worn-down neutral.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Custom Cabinetry
Joe DeCenzo, The Cabinet Maker
Quality: How do you ensure that you are getting the best quality? Cabinetry is one of the single largest investments in a new home or remodel project, so be sure to research the manufacturer and its reputation for quality. Look for features such as gang construction (versus box construction), precision dovetail joinery, hardwood drawers and shelving (no particle board or melamine), and a lifetime warranty to stand behind the work’s craftsmanship.
Maximize Usable Space: How do you maximize your usable space? Thoughtful design and layout are critical components when planning a new project. When designing a kitchen, it is essential to consider workflow, organization and functionality in the design. Eliminating fillers and adding items such as a spice rack to a workstation, a hidden lazy Susan in a corner or cookie sheet dividers create additional interior cabinetry storage and utilize every square inch of interior space.
Finishes: How do you incorporate cabinetry into the overall look of your home? Custom cabinetry can be designed to blend with the current decor or can be treated as unique accent piece. From natural wood to custom stain and paint colors, as well as wood species, endless solutions that enhance and complement any décor are available.
