Thanks for confirming your subscription!
You're so awesome for subscribing, we thought you'd want to be friends on Facebook. Get social with us below, or read our latest article.
From Our Blog
When people dream about their "forever kitchen," luxurious elements usually come to mind, such as sleek surfaces, high-end finishes, and custom touches. Unfortunately, many think that these features need to stay in the dream phase because they'll never fit into the budget. However, the good news is that creating a kitchen that feels high-end doesn't have to drain your entire savings. At Cumberland Kitchen, we've helped homeowners design show-stopping kitchens that work for their lifestyles as well as their wallets. Here's how you can do the same. Focus on high-impact visual features You don't have to tear everything down and start over to get a high-end look. Instead, focus on what you (or your guests) will see first when walking into the space. Prioritizing the areas that make the biggest visual impact gives you the biggest bang for your buck. Features to consider include: Cabinet fronts . If your cabinet boxes are in good condition, consider refacing or repainting them to give your kitchen a fresh look. A new color or hardware can completely change the feel of your space. Matte black or brushed gold handles instantly add a modern, upscale vibe. Countertops . If marble is beyond the budget, consider quartz. With its subtle veining, it offers a similar look for a fraction of the cost and is also more durable. Backsplash . A bold or unique tile pattern can act as a statement piece, especially if the rest of the kitchen is clean and simple. Remember, you don't need to upgrade everything in your kitchen, as a few strategic changes are often enough to shift the entire tone of the space. Get clever with materials Luxury is often less about what something costs and more about how it feels and looks. Today, there are numerous new budget-friendly materials that, when used wisely, can replicate the look of more expensive options. For example: Use butcher block for an island to contrast with solid countertops. Select high-quality flooring, such as luxury vinyl plank (LVP), that mimics the appearance of real wood or stone. Install open shelving made from reclaimed wood for added warmth and character. Don't be afraid to mix and match price points. When done right, combining budget-friendly materials with a few higher-end touches (like appliances) can create a layered, designer feel. Prioritize lighting Good lighting is one of the most overlooked secrets to a luxury kitchen. And it doesn't have to be expensive. Consider installing functional and stylish under-cabinet lighting to brighten prep areas and create a warm ambiance. Lighting can also be a focal point that elevates the space. You may want to try swapping in statement pendant lights over your island or dining area to draw the eye and add a touch of luxury. For any accent lighting or pendant lighting, consider using warm-toned bulbs to soften the overall look. With thoughtful choices, even modest finishes will shine. Keep your layout efficient One of the most luxurious features in any kitchen? A layout that works with a kitchen's purpose and traffic flow, not against them. Instead of expanding your footprint, work with a designer to maximize what you already have. Reconfigure cabinets or appliances to improve flow. Add hidden storage options, such as pull-out pantry drawers or corner solutions. Keep the ever-popular "work triangle" (sink, stove, fridge) compact and functional. An efficient layout not only looks great but also makes cooking and entertaining easier, which always gives a sense of being upscale. Work with experts who understand your vision One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make? Trying to cut costs by managing a remodel on their own. A skilled design-build team can help you: Avoid costly mistakes Source affordable materials that still look high-end Create a kitchen that fits your budget and your style. Let Cumberland help you create a high-end look—without the high-end cost At Cumberland Kitchen, we believe every homeowner deserves a kitchen that feels personal, functional, and beautiful, regardless of their budget. Whether you're ready to refresh a few key elements or undertake a full renovation, our expert team will help you bring your vision to life with thoughtful design, high-quality craftsmanship, and informed material choices. Let Cumberland Kitchen handle your next renovation or build. Contact us today to schedule your consultation.
Remodeling a kitchen is no small feat, and during the planning stage, every detail matters. However, few additions make as big of an impact as a well-designed kitchen island. A kitchen island is both functional and stylish, making it a must-have in modern kitchen designs. These versatile furnishings can do it all, from expanding your prep space to adding storage or creating a natural gathering spot; a kitchen island might be exactly what your remodel needs. At Cumberland Kitchen and Bath, we've seen firsthand how the right island can transform the heart of your home into a space that works better for your family and feels more inviting for your guests. The Versatility of a Kitchen Island One of the biggest reasons homeowners choose to incorporate a kitchen island is its unmatched versatility. Islands can serve multiple purposes, all from a singular central location. They are a multi-functional counter space ideal for food prep, especially if you're an avid cook who needs additional countertop space to make meal preparation more efficient. The kitchen island often becomes a convenient landing spot for families for backpacks, lunch boxes, and coffee cups in the morning rush. It's also a great homework location, so you can keep an eye on your kids while you prepare dinner. Or, if your kitchen is a social hub, an island becomes the perfect place for guests to gather without crowding your cooking zone. The bottom line is that kitchen islands adapt to your lifestyle seamlessly. Added Storage That Doesn't Compromise Style Aside from countertop space, kitchen islands can also provide ample storage. Deep drawers, pull-out shelves, hidden trash compartments, and even built-in microwaves or wine racks can all be integrated into island cabinetry. This added storage helps keep clutter off your main counters and can offer everything, from large pots to cutting boards, a proper place. Despite its usefulness, island storage doesn't have to look utilitarian. Our design team can match your island's finishes and hardware to your main cabinetry for a cohesive look or intentionally contrast them to create a custom statement piece. Whichever design theme you choose, you get function without sacrificing aesthetics. A Natural Gathering Place Kitchens have always been natural gathering spaces, hence the nickname "the heart of the home. " An island enhances this idea. Adding seating to your island invites casual conversation, after-school snacks, or quick breakfasts on busy mornings. It also creates a more open, inclusive atmosphere, especially if your kitchen flows into a living or dining area. Even in larger kitchens, an island helps define the space. It can separate cooking zones from entertaining zones without the need for walls or barriers. This helps preserve an open-concept feel while offering structure and ensuring no one is separated from the festivities. An Excellent Design Enhancement Design-wise, a kitchen island offers the chance to introduce new materials, colors, or textures into the space, elevating the entire room. Most kitchens don't tend to incorporate art or a lot of decor. But with elements like a waterfall countertop, butcher block surface, or bold paint color, the island can become the focal point of your kitchen. Lighting plays an important role here as well. Pendant lights above the island provide essential task lighting and contribute to the room's ambiance and style. With a few design strategies and some smart lighting, a kitchen island becomes more than just practical; it becomes a visual anchor that brings the design together. Is a Kitchen Island Right for Your Space? While kitchen islands offer many benefits, it's important to make sure this design element is the right fit for your space. A well-designed island should enhance your workflow, not hinder it or make the flow of traffic awkward. Before recommending an island configuration, we work closely with clients to evaluate their kitchen layout, primary uses, and storage needs. Whether you want a compact prep island or a multi-functional centerpiece with seating and storage, the key is thoughtful planning and custom design. Let Cumberland Kitchen Help Your Remodel Work Smarter If you're planning a kitchen remodel, don't underestimate the impact a kitchen island can have on your everyday life. With the right design, materials, and layout, it's certainly a smart investment in how your home functions. At Cumberland Kitchen and Bath, we specialize in creating spaces that are a perfect fit for your family and are as practical as they are beautiful. Let us help you design a kitchen island that complements your vision and enhances the way you live.