Choosing the Right Finish: Buff vs. Natural from Showplace Cabinetry

When it comes to selecting the perfect finish for your cabinetry, the choice between Buff and Natural finishes from Showplace Cabinetry can significantly impact the overall look and feel of your space.

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Each finish offers unique benefits, and understanding these differences can help you make an informed decision that aligns with your design vision. Let’s dive into the details of Buff and Natural finishes and explore how they can transform your cabinetry.

Buff Finish: A Modern Solution for Consistency

The Buff finish from Showplace Cabinetry is designed with a specific purpose: to lessen the yellowing effect that can occur over time with natural wood. This finish is particularly beneficial for those who prefer a more consistent and contemporary look in their cabinetry.

Key Benefits of Buff Finish:

  1. Reduced Yellowing: Over time, natural wood can develop a yellowish hue due to exposure to light and air. The Buff finish helps mitigate this effect, keeping your cabinets looking fresh and new for longer.
  2. Consistency in Appearance: Buff finish evens out the color variations in the wood, providing a uniform look. This is especially useful for white oak, which can exhibit a range of tones and hues.
  3. Modern Aesthetic: The smoother, more consistent appearance of the Buff finish lends itself well to modern and minimalist design styles, where clean lines and uniformity are highly valued.

By opting for the Buff finish, homeowners can enjoy the beauty of white oak without worrying about the gradual color changes that naturally occur. This makes it an excellent choice for those seeking longevity and a sleek, polished look.

Natural Finish: Embracing the Beauty of Variations

On the other hand, the Natural finish from Showplace Cabinetry celebrates the inherent characteristics of wood. This finish highlights the natural highs and lows, allowing the unique patterns and grains of the wood to shine through.

Key Benefits of Natural Finish:

  1. Enhanced Natural Beauty: The Natural finish accentuates the wood’s natural grain and texture, showcasing the unique patterns and variations that make each piece of wood distinct.
  2. Warm and Inviting: By highlighting the natural tones and variations, the Natural finish creates a warm and inviting atmosphere. It’s perfect for those who appreciate the organic beauty of wood.
  3. Traditional Appeal: The Natural finish complements traditional and rustic design styles, where the character and charm of the wood are focal points.

For homeowners who love the idea of embracing the natural beauty of their cabinetry, the Natural finish is the way to go. It brings out the rich, diverse characteristics of white oak, making each cabinet a unique work of art.

A Step-by-Step Guide

How It has Done:

Step 1: Consultation and Design

The first step is to schedule a consultation with a Showplace Renew dealer-designer. During this consultation, you will discuss your vision for your kitchen and explore the various style options available. The expert will take measurements and provide recommendations based on your preferences and budget.

Step 2: Removal of Doors and Drawers

Once you have finalized your design choices and materials have arrived, the refacing process begins. The doors and drawer fronts of your existing cabinets are carefully removed, leaving the cabinet boxes intact – with the contents left in place, if you wish.

Step 3: Surface Preparation

Next, the surfaces of the cabinet boxes are thoroughly cleaned and prepared for the new veneers. Any necessary repairs, such as filling in dents or scratches, are also addressed at this stage to ensure a smooth, uniform smooth surface to apply the veneer.

Step 4: Application of Veneers

The new pressure sensitive veneers, chosen during the design phase, are then applied to the exterior surfaces of the cabinet boxes. Showplace Renew uses high-quality materials available in an array of stains or solid paints.

Step 5: Installation of New Doors and Hardware

Once the veneers are in place, the new doors, hinges, and drawer fronts are installed. This is where you will see your vision come to life as your kitchen transforms before your eyes.

Step 6: Final Touches and Inspection

The final changes are applied to your newly refaced cabinets and are now ready to be enjoyed for years to come.

Making the Choice: Buff or Natural?

The decision between Buff and Natural finishes ultimately comes down to personal preference and the desired aesthetic for your space.

Choose Natural if: You want to highlight the natural beauty and variations of the wood. Natural is perfect for traditional or rustic designs where the unique characteristics of the wood are celebrated.

Choose Buff if: You prefer a more consistent, modern look with less yellowing over time. Buff is ideal for contemporary designs where a sleek, uniform appearance is desired.

Both Buff and Natural finishes from Showplace Cabinetry offer distinct advantages, and your choice will depend on your personal style and the overall design of your space. Whether you opt for the consistency of Buff or the organic charm of Natural, Showplace Cabinetry provides high-quality finishes that will enhance the beauty and longevity of your cabinetry.

Kitchen Cabinet Storage: What You Should Know

One of the most important aspects of designing a functional kitchen is storage. Kitchen cabinets play a crucial role in organizing and storing items such as cookware, dishes, utensils, and food.

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Read on to explore some of the best cabinet storage ideas to help maximize the functionality and organization of your kitchen or any other space in your home.

We offer many kitchen cabinet storage ideas to help maximize your kitchen’s functionality and organization. Here are some of the more popular cabinet storage and organization ideas. Be sure to discuss your specific needs with your designer.

Options. Options. Options.

Kitchen Storage

cabinet with roll trays

Drawers and Roll Trays

The most basic storage features that are a must in cabinet design are drawers and roll trays. They allow you to have access to items stored toward the back of a cabinet by pulling out the drawer or tray.

Base cabinet with lazy susan

Corner cabinets

Corner cabinets are often underutilized spaces in the kitchen. Installing a Lazy Susan or a swing-out shelving system can help maximize storage in corner cabinets.

Base cabinet with tray dividers

Tray Dividers

These vertical dividers are perfect for storing baking sheets, cutting boards, and serving trays.

Drawer organizer

Drawer Organizers

Drawer organizers help keep utensils and smaller items organized and easy to find. We offer both fixed drawer dividers or inserted accessories.

door spice rack

Door Spice Shelves

Cabinet door storage can be used to store spices, cleaning supplies, or even cookware.

Floating shelf

Open Floating Shelves

Open floating shelving is a great option for displaying decorative items and frequently used items, such as dishes and glasses. It also makes it easy to access these items when cooking and entertaining.

Base cabinet with waste basket kit

Pull-out Trash and Recycling Bins

A pull-out trash and recycling bin is a great way to keep the kitchen tidy while also maximizing storage space. We offer several kits for varying cabinet sizes.

Wine cube

Wine Storage

If you’re a wine enthusiast, consider installing a wine rack or a wine cooler in your kitchen. Wine storage can be incorporated into almost any cabinet.

Food container storage base

Food Container Storage

No need to have your lids fall out every time you open a door or drawer. This kit will help you keep all your containers in one place.

Custom cabinets

Custom Cabinets

Custom cabinets are perfect for maximizing storage space in unique or challenging kitchen layouts. We can build cabinets in almost any configuration to fit your needs.

By incorporating these ideas into your kitchen design, you can create a space that is both beautiful and functional. Remember, when it comes to kitchen storage, there is no one-size-fits-all solution, so consider your specific needs and preferences when designing your cabinets.

Should I Choose an All-Black Kitchen?

All-black kitchens have become increasingly popular in recent years as homeowners and designers look to create dramatic and stylish spaces.

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While some may think an all-black kitchen could be dreary, it can actually create a stunning and sophisticated ambiance. Read on as we explore the benefits of all-black kitchens and how to create one that perfectly suits your home.

An all-black kitchen can make a bold statement, especially if the rest of the house has a lighter color scheme. The all-black look can convey a sense of luxury and glamour, giving the space a high-end feel. A monochromatic palette can also give the kitchen a cohesive and polished look, creating a sense of continuity throughout the room. It is important to note, however, that an all-black kitchen may not be for everyone, especially those who prefer a brighter and more cheerful atmosphere.

Lighting is also crucial in an all-black kitchen. As black surfaces can absorb light, it is essential to incorporate adequate lighting to prevent the room from feeling too dark or gloomy. Task lighting under cabinets and pendant lights above the island or table can add both functionality and style to the space. Natural light is also a must, so if possible, it’s a good idea to incorporate windows or skylights. Our black high gloss acrylic surface will reflect light, however.

Also, keep in mind that all-black cabinets show more dirt, dents, and scratches. So, more frequent cleaning and touch-ups may be required.

Finally, it is important to consider the size of your kitchen when choosing an all-black color scheme. In a smaller kitchen, an all-black design can make the space feel cramped. However, in a larger kitchen, black can make the space feel more expansive and grand.

5 Kitchen Layout Ideas to Elevate Your Space

A kitchen is not just a place to cook and store food, but it is also a space where you can gather with family and friends.

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It’s important to choose a kitchen layout that not only functions well but also reflects your personal style and enhances the overall look of your home. If you’re looking for a modern kitchen layout, here are five ideas to inspire you.

Open Concept Kitchen

Open Concept

An open concept kitchen is a popular choice for modern homes, as it provides a spacious and airy feel to the room. The open concept kitchen allows for an easy flow between the kitchen and the living or dining area, making it ideal for entertaining guests or cooking with family. You can also incorporate a large island with seating for a casual dining option.

U-Shaped White Kitchen

U-Shaped Kitchen

A U-shaped kitchen is a great option if you want to maximize storage and counter space. The U-shaped design provides plenty of cabinetry and countertop space, making it ideal for busy kitchens. The U-shaped design also creates a closed-off area, making it ideal for privacy while cooking.

L-Shaped Kitchen

L-Shaped Kitchen

An L-shaped kitchen is another popular modern kitchen layout, as it provides a functional work area with plenty of counter space. The L-shaped design is ideal for small kitchens as it provides an efficient work triangle. You can also incorporate an island or a breakfast bar into the design for added counter space and seating.

Galley Kitchen

Galley Kitchen

A galley kitchen is a narrow and long kitchen design that provides plenty of counter space and storage. This design is ideal for small kitchens, and it allows for an efficient work triangle. You can also add an island to the design for extra counter space and storage.

One other layout option is the peninsula kitchen. A peninsula kitchen is similar to an L-shaped kitchen, but with a peninsula that extends out from the wall. The peninsula provides additional counter space and seating, making it ideal for casual dining. This layout is also a great option for small kitchens as it maximizes counter space while still providing an open feel.

Choosing the right kitchen layout is crucial to creating a functional and stylish kitchen. Whether you choose an open concept kitchen, a U-shaped kitchen, an L-shaped kitchen, a galley kitchen, or a peninsula kitchen, these modern kitchen layout ideas can help you create a space that meets your needs and enhances the overall look of your home. So, pick the layout that best fits your lifestyle, and start creating the kitchen of your dreams.

The Beauty of Hickory: The Most Variably Grained and Colored Wood

If you’re looking for a wood species that offers a wide range of graining and color consistency, hickory should be at the top of your list.

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This versatile and beautiful wood has become a popular choice for any room in your home, and for good reason. With its unique graining, natural variation, and warm, inviting color, hickory is a wood species that truly stands out.

One of the defining features of hickory is its variability. Below are two areas in which hickory’s characteristics can vary, providing an unexpected beauty with each cabinet.

Characteristics

Hickory Pampas cabinets in a warehouse

Grain

The graining in hickory can range from straight and fine, to wild and wavy, and everything in between. This variability means that each piece of hickory wood is truly one-of-a-kind, and it gives the wood a natural and organic look that is difficult to replicate.

Vanity in hickory wood

Color

The heartwood of hickory can range from light to dark colors, with a reddish hue that adds warmth to the wood. Sapwood is usually lighter in color and can have a yellow or creamy hue. These color variations within a single piece of wood are part of what makes hickory unique and beautiful.

Hickory is a strong and durable wood, making it a great choice for high-traffic areas like flooring or furniture. It’s also a popular choice for cabinetry and millwork, as its natural variation and character make it a great addition to any kitchen or bathroom.

Hickory stained storage cabinets in the back office of our Harrisburg showroom.
This photo demonstrates the variability of stains on hickory. Sparrow finish shown.

Also, whether you prefer a natural finish that highlights the wood’s natural graining and character, or a stained finish that adds a pop of color to your space, hickory is a versatile wood that can be customized to fit your style.

If you’re looking for a beautiful and character-rich addition to your cabinetry or millwork, hickory is a great choice.

Smart Ways to Save Money on a Kitchen Remodel

Are you planning on remodeling your kitchen in the near future? If budget is on your mind, we have some ways to save money.

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There are many things you can do to save money on your next remodel project. Your designer may have other ideas, but here are just a few ways to get more for your money when you begin your kitchen refresh.

Before we get to the “Do’s” in budget-friendly remodeling, here is an important “Don’t.”

You’ve heard the saying, “You get what you pay for.” That is certainly true when it comes to cabinetry. No matter what brand you choose, make sure that your cabinets are constructed with high quality materials and methods. In other words, don’t base your decision solely on price. You may regret your decision after just a couple years.

Showplace Cabinetry offers several cabinet lines to meet your style and budget needs. All of our framed lines are KCMA-certified and meet all construction quality requirements. So, you know you’re getting a great product with a limited lifetime warranty to give you additional ease of mind.

Now, the “Do’s” for a successful, budget-friendly remodel project…

White kitchen cabinetse

Keep it Simple

Simple layout and design ideas can help you save money.

  • Use larger cabinets rather than smaller cabinets to reduce the work for the installer, saving time and money.
  • Leave space between the wall cabinets and the ceiling to avoid the need for trim molding (This is a modern look, too!).
  • Use flat panel doors in your design to save money and provide a simple, clean look.
  • Avoid costly cabinet modifications.
  • Use floating shelves rather than book cases or cabinets to save money and gives you a more spacious look.
  • Avoid moving utilities if possible.
"DIY" on dice

Get Creative

You can do things to save money and stretch your dollar even further!

  • Use laminate countertops instead of stone or quartz. Laminate tops are very durable and have many color and pattern options.
  • Do as much of the labor and material running as you can to avoid charges by contractors.
  • If possible, try selling your old cabinets and using that towards your project. The buyer may even be willing to remove the cabinets for you to save you time and money.
Floor Plan

Other Ideas

Some other ways to help you pay for your remodel project are:

  • Ask your designer to create more than one layout option to see what it takes to get the best price and value.
  • Ask your designer if they offer low-interest financing to allow you to get more done.

If you have a small budget, consider refacing your existing cabinets with Showplace Renew. This is a cost-effective way to keep your cabinets and make them look new with materials to reface the cabinet frames, and then replace the doors and drawers/drawer fronts and add other accessories to refresh your kitchen space and make it not only beautiful, but even more functional. Check with your dealer if they offer Showplace Renew products. Read about Showplace Renew in our blog.

Thanks to Curt Johnson, designer at Showplace Cabinetry Design Center in Sioux Falls, SD for contributing to this blog.