Kitchen & Bath
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From a simple update to a total transformation, local kitchen and bath designers can take the hassle out of sometimes daunting home improvement projects. Kitchen and bath designers and specialists have a vast understanding of space planning, knowledge of local plumbing and building codes, and valuable relationships with vendors and suppliers. These creative, innovative, forward-thinking professionals not only present limitless opportunities for breathing new life into tired old rooms, but can also make kitchens and bathrooms more comfortable and more functional.
Kate-Lo Tile & Stone
About us:
We specialize in high quality, domestic and imported tile from around the world and feature a huge selection of tile for your home or business.
Where do our readers begin when they’re ready to update their kitchens?
When visiting one of our designer showrooms, we recommend bringing in samples of your paint, countertop, and cabinetry. Also, if you have any magazine clippings of kitchens you love—bring those along. Our design consultants can help you find exactly the look you want.
How do our readers use a high-ticket mosaic tile for their homes, without breaking the bank?
Think of using them like you would jewelry. Use those exquisite, to-die-for tiles as decorative accents and in feature areas, while using less expensive tiles as the field.
Industry trends:
One of the hottest trends right now is porcelain tiles that create the authentic look of a genuine hardwood floor, complete with the grainy texture of a natural wood surface and the durability of tile. Porcelain tiles that look like cement are also popular, whether they are stained, washed, honed, or have subtle metallic hints. Another trend is large format tiles, 12-inches-by-24-inches, 18-inches-by-36-inches, and even 24-inches-by-24-inches. Even larger formats are on the horizon.
Today’s kitchens are…
reflective of people’s busy lives, pairing both modern conveniences and creature comforts.
Today’s baths are…
places for quiet reflection without clutter and daily interference. Natural colors, light-filled spaces, and simple textures and finishes are the biggest trends in today’s baths.
Showrooms: Plymouth, Burnsville, Roseville
763-545-5455
www.katelotile.com
Minnesota Standard Showplace
About us:
Minnesota Standard Showplace is a bath and kitchen showroom displaying over 40 vignettes throughout 5,000 square feet of space. A few of the product lines we display include American Standard, Blanco, Elkay, Jado, Porcher, and Toto. Come see the latest plumbing items and work with our educated and experienced consultants.
Where do our readers begin when they’re ready to update their kitchens?
Begin with a wish list, then go through model homes on the Midwest Home Luxury Home Tour and the Spring and Fall Parade of Homes to get ideas. Take these ideas and hire a certified kitchen and bath designer to create your dream space.
Can you offer our readers any good tips on ways to renovate that won’t break the bank?
Work with licensed contractors and professional plumbing showrooms.
Scenario: I’m always running into people in my kitchen—they want to get to the pantry while I’m cooking. How can I redirect traffic?
Think ahead when hosting an event and prepare a food station of snacks in the adjacent family area.
Scenario: It seems like we never have enough storage space. How can we maximize it, even in a smaller kitchen?
Donate the items you no longer need or use, then get organized. There are great options for drawers and cabinets that will maximize your space.
Industry trends:
A trend in the kitchen is hands-free faucets by Brizo, Delta, and Moen, simplifying the food prep process. A trend in the bathroom is water closets using 1.28 gpf instead of the standard 1.6 gpf, helping to conserve water.
Come visit us:
We invite you visit our Showplace and work with our trained, professional design consultants as you select faucets and fixtures for your next bath or kitchen project.
St. Louis Park, MN
952-920-1460
www.minnesotastandardshowplace.com
National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA)
Minnesota Chapter
About us:
NKBA is the National Kitchen and Bath Association, a professional group of trained and experienced kitchen and bath experts. NKBA members can assist in making the most efficient and beautiful use of your space. We can guide you through the construction or remodeling process, helping you save both time and money. Our membership represents designers, remodelers, and all aspects of the construction and remodeling industry, from appliances to flooring, from plumbing fixtures to cabinetry.
Certified professionals:
NKBA also offers certified and educated professionals. There are more than 50 NKBA Accredited/Supported Colleges and Universities. NKBA Certification is the gold standard in the kitchen and bath industry. Certifications are gained by displaying industry knowledge and experience as well as passing proctored examinations. The NKBA offers the following levels of certification:
• Associate Kitchen & Bath Designer (AKBD)
• Certified Kitchen Designer (CKD)
• Certified Bathroom Designer (CBD)
• Certified Kitchen Educator (CKE)
• Certified Bathroom Educator (CBE)
• Certified Kitchen & Bath Installer (CKBI)
For more information on these certifications on our organization please visit www.nkbamn.org
Minnesota
www.nkbamn.org
Uson Design Solutions
About us:
We offer a unique and high-quality range of eco-friendly tiles, stones, mosaics, glass, hardwood flooring, and plumbing products, mostly imported from Europe. We want to be accessible to consumers, so we offer very reasonable price points by directly importing from suppliers.
Where do our readers begin when they’re ready to update their kitchens and baths?
Start by cutting out pictures, visiting local showrooms, and getting the vision just right in your mind. Good design is a process. Don’t rush it. Ask questions. For example, you may love the look of Carrara Marble for your floor, but with kids and pets, it might not be the most practical choice. Knowing things like this will help you make an informed decision.
Renovating without breaking the bank:
A kitchen or bath update can be as simple as changing a paint color or backsplash tile. Changing out fixtures can also make a big difference in the look and feel of your space.
The Üson difference:
When people first visit Üson’s showroom, the thing we hear most often is “I didn’t know tile like this even existed!” We offer some of the most unique, trend-forward tile in the industry. We carry not only the latest styles and designs, but also the latest in technology—digital inkjet, thin porcelain, thick porcelain for exterior use, air purifying tile, etc. We make it a top priority to stay on top of what’s up and coming in tile, so your sure to find what you’re looking for.
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