Getting Started on your Kitchen Remodel

Before you start a kitchen remodel project, determine how you want to use your kitchen. Visit kitchen showrooms, look at friends’ kitchens, and look online and in magazines to get inspired. Get educated on the cost and quality of items, and then figure out what you need and what you can afford.

KITCHEN PLANNING GUIDE

Whether your kitchen is past due for a makeover or you’re only dreaming about what could be, start with our Kitchen Planning Guide.

Please fill in below to download the Guide.

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Bath Planning Guides

Getting Started on your Bathroom Remodel

Nothing beats careful planning, especially on home improvement projects like bathroom remodeling.

Before executing your ideas, make sure your visions for your bathroom are well laid out. Get inspiration from bathroom showrooms, online and in magazines, and even from friends’ own bathrooms.

Do your own research, even if it means searching for tons of “bathroom remodeling for dummies” articles online. Better if you can find a good bathroom planning guide, to save time on research and to help you kickstart your planning phase.

What is an ADA compliant bathroom?

The ADA, or The Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, covers many facets including equal access for Americans with disabilities and providing Design Standards for Accessibility. These standards ensure those who have a disability or require assistance will have appropriate access to buildings and facilities. While the standards include public restrooms, many of the features apply to residential bathrooms as well. 

ADA BATHROOM REQUIREMENTS

• You have the appropriate turn radius to fit a wheelchair or walker into your bath and move around the room.
• The door opening is wide enough for a wheelchair or walker to get into your bathroom.
• Faucets are easy to use without requiring much grip strength (the force required to use the faucet handle).
• There is shower accessibility for wheelchair accessibility or a transfer (ie: shower seat).
• There are grab bars available within the bathroom.
• There is room for a wheelchair to access the sink.

What is Aging In Place?

Aging in Place is being able to grow old at home. It includes everything from minor changes to major remodels to be able to remain at home as long as possible safely and comfortably.

Aging in Place also encompasses planning for the long term with your remodel for when more assistance might be required.

Preparing your home to Age In Place can include:

• Preparing for the installation of grab bars in the bathroom in the future.
• Replacing a bath with a low threshold shower
• Upgrading faucets that are easier to use without requiring much grip strength (the force required to use the faucet handle)
• Adding in a decorative shower seat

GET STARTED WITH YOUR AGING-IN-PLACE OR ADA BATHROOM DESIGN

How to Make Your Bathroom ADA Compliant

1. Install Low Threshold or Ramped Showers

An ADA-compliant bathroom is not complete without low-threshold or ramped showers for a more convenient entry and exit. We have brands like Onyx Collection which lets you have the option to add either a low-profile shower base or a completely curb-less entrance for your shower space. Making your bathroom ADA compliant doesn’t always need a full-blown renovation. You can start by converting your existing bath to a low threshold shower or a ramped shower.

4. Place Safety Grab Bars

These humble decoratives grab bars might just save you from a nasty fall on your wet, slippery shower floor. If you plan to age in place, this simple bathroom accessory can keep your future ease of living and safety in place.

ADA bathroom grab bars have standard options in 16”, 24, 36”, & 48”. They come in an assortment of styles and finishes to match any bathroom interior.

A helpful tip: include backer boards when installing a new bath or bathroom accessory. And if you want to prepare your shower for future installation.

Or you may just purchase a one-piece Walk-in Tub equipped with all the safety features and ADA requirements you may want for your bath. Our Walk-in Tubs come in various hydrotherapy packages and accessible designs (i.e. WCA, knee cut out, extra-low step-in) to accommodate all types of users.

6. Choose ADA Compliant Bathroom Sink and Vanity

An ADA-compliant bathroom has to be accessible to everyone, and that includes choosing easy-to-reach and easy-to-use vanities and sinks.

In general, a bathroom vanity or a wall-hung sink should have a knee clearance below of 27 inches high and be at a minimum of 30 inches wide by 11-25 inches deep to be considered ADA compliant.

The Onyx Collections offers a wide selection of solid surface products to create the perfect bathroom

The Onyx Collection manufactures shower bases, shower pans, lavatories, tub surrounds, fireplace hearths, slabs, seats, trim and other shower accessories to your specifications in almost any size, shape, and color, for your bathroom remodeling needs.

Onyx Collection products are available through Capitol Kitchens and Baths. Call or email us for more information on the complete product line.  You may also visit our showrooms located at Saratoga Springs, Albany and Schenectady, or check our Onyx Collection items online through our website.

Onyx Collection Lavatories  

CUSTOM BATHROOM LAVATORIES

Onyx Bathroom Accessories 

Onyx Collection also offers a wide variety of bathroom accessories such as shower caddies, shower seats, towel and grab bars, shower curtain rods, toilet holders and other Onyx bathroom products to keep your bathing sanctuary functional, neat and organized. They also come in an assortment of sizes and colors to match your bathroom interior.

Shower Seats

Accessories 

STANDARD ACCESSORIES FOR SHOWERS

STANDARD BATHROOM TRIM FOR SHOWERS

Trim 

Accent your bathroom with matching trim, including corner trim, crown molding, chair rail, baseboard, window and door casing, flat trim, tile trim, and other molded trim styles.

Onyx Collection: Where to Buy?

If you’re considering a home remodel and dreaming of a luxurious shower upgrade, look no further than Capitol Kitchens and Baths. When you choose to remodel with us, you’ll have the exclusive opportunity to incorporate the exquisite Onyx Collection into your project.

Book your FREE design consultation with one of our expert bathroom designers HERE.

Recent Projects

At Capitol Kitchens & Baths, we believe our experience speaks for itself and we hope you will enjoy browsing the photos in our portfolio.  Find your inspiration here and let one of our expert designers DESIGN YOUR DREAM.

Types of Wood Cabinet in Kitchen Design

The Modern Kitchen Work Triangle Rule:

Designing Beauty with Function

When it comes to creating a new kitchen design, let your lifestyle and your home’s current configuration influence the shape of your new cabinetry. Are you an aspiring cook? Do you like to entertain? Is counter space a premium? These are just some of the considerations that will determine which kitchen design layout is right for you. And this is where the Kitchen Triangle Rule comes in handy.

Kitchen Work Triangle and Kitchen Design

What is a Kitchen Work Triangle?

The kitchen work triangle, also called the ‘kitchen triangle’ or the ‘kitchen golden triangle’,  has been the golden standard of kitchen design for many years now. By definition, the kitchen work triangle is a time-tested guideline observed in kitchen design to make efficient kitchen layouts with clear traffic lanes.

Basically, the concept behind it is that the three most used things in the kitchen, the sink, the refrigerator, and the stovetop, should be laid out in a triangle shape.

The main purpose of this rule is to ensure that your kitchen workspace is practical, comfortable and large enough – but not too large – so the kitchen workflow is always seamless.

Imagine cooking, cleaning, and reaching food storage areas with ease, cutting down wasted steps and giving you more time to do other activities.

Kitchen Work Zones and Kitchen Work Triangle

Before deciding on a kitchen layout, consider how you want these work zones to function together in your new space. In addition to work zones, you will also want to consider how you will use your new kitchen.

What three components make up the kitchen work triangle?

The triangle connects 3 main work areas within the kitchen – the range, the sink and the refrigerator. A general rule is that the distance between these three areas should be between 4 feet and 9 feet, no more and no less, with the sum of the three sides lying between 13 feet and 26 feet.

Again, the goal of applying this rule is to make your kitchen work zones efficient. The triangle kitchen layout should enable you to perform day-to-day tasks with relative ease and without obstruction.

Common Kitchen Work Triangle Zones and Layouts

Here are some of the most popular kitchen layouts (following the kitchen work triangle) you may consider when planning your kitchen design

1) SINGLE WALL / STRAIGHT KITCHEN LAYOUT

A single wall kitchen layout is great for small spaces.
With layout positions for all of the appliances on a single wall, this kitchen design would typically be found in a studio apartment or other very small space.

2) GALLEY KITCHEN LAYOUT

A galley kitchen design is open on both ends.
Open on both ends, the galley kitchen design requires a minimum corridor width of 48″ so the cook can easily maneuver during meal preparation. Kitchen appliances are typically laid out near one another, which can be convenient, but due to the corridor shape of the kitchen, all of the household traffic will pass though the space.

3) L-SHAPED KITCHEN WORK TRIANGLE

An L-shaped kitchen layout makes use of only two walls, providing open sensibility.
This kitchen layout offers flexibility for both large and small homes. It makes use of only two kitchen walls, providing an open sensibility. The L-shape minimizes traffic through the kitchen and, typically, features larger expanses of countertops, allowing ease of preparation at mealtime.

4) U-SHAPED KITCHEN LAYOUT

A U-shaped kitchen layout offers generous counter space and efficient work areas.
A popular choice because of its efficiency, the U-shaped kitchen offers generous counter space and work areas that are close together. It can, however, make the cook feel apart from a group when entertaining, as most tasks will be done while facing one of the three walls. To open the space up more, you could add a half wall or use only two walls with a peninsula island making up the third side.

5) L-SHAPED KITCHEN WORK TRIANGLE WITH ISLAND

Enhance an L-shaped kitchen design with an island.
With the addition of an island, an L-shaped kitchen design offers the added flexibility of providing a space where the cook can interact with others while prepping food, cooking, serving or cleaning up.

6) G-SHAPED KITCHEN LAYOUT

Featuring a modified U shape, the G-shaped kitchen layout is very efficient.
However, unless one or more of the walls are designed as half or “pony” walls, this kitchen shape can feel confining for today’s cook.

Does the kitchen work triangle apply to kitchens with islands?

Many different kitchen layouts fit the kitchen work triangle concept. While it often applies to traditional U-shaped kitchens, many other layouts can work. For instance, a large, open-concept kitchen with an island can still retain the core triangular placement of the three main elements. An L-shaped kitchen can nicely accommodate the triangle concept as well. A galley that is closed off on one end can be a perfect example of the work triangle too.

Does the kitchen work triangle apply to kitchens with islands?

Many different kitchen layouts fit the kitchen work triangle concept. While it often applies to traditional U-shaped kitchens, many other layouts can work. For instance, a large, open-concept kitchen with an island can still retain the core triangular placement of the three main elements. An L-shaped kitchen can nicely accommodate the triangle concept as well. A galley that is closed off on one end can be a perfect example of the work triangle too.

Is the kitchen triangle outdated?

The overall opinion of kitchen experts is that no, kitchen triangle is not yet dead. In fact, the kitchen triangle is a good design principle. It will always be popular since it has been the standard in the design industry. For the longest time, it has made many homeowners’ lives easier. While there are tons of sophisticated layouts you can follow today,  many designers still prefer the efficiency of movement a kitchen triangle can bring to mind when working up a new design.

But due to the changing needs of the modern family, one may opt to not strictly abide by the rule. In fact, some kitchen owners prefer having ‘working zones’ instead (like baking zone, serving zone, etc.), especially in larger kitchens.

At the end of the day, the kitchen work triangle is only a guideline.  Many designers today believe that the most important criterion for kitchen design is the client’s lifestyle.  As a homeowner, it’s important to choose a layout that works best for you and your needs. So before finalizing your decisions,  do your research — know the pros and cons of each kitchen layout.

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CABINETS 101 | Framed vs. Frameless Cabinets

When choosing cabinets, there are two types of construction to consider: framed or frameless cabinetry. Both provide endless design possibilities and their own unique advantages. Here are some things to consider as you decide which type of cabinet construction is best for you.

Cabinets 101 | Cabinet Door Construction and Cabinet Overlay Options

How a cabinet is built determines how it looks and functions. These basics will help you determine what cabinet door construction type is best for you.

CABINETS 101 | Types of Cabinet Door Styles

Cabinet doors make a big impression in any remodeled room, taking up a significant part of the visual appeal of the space while defining your personal style. They are available with various center panel styles, as well as overlay and inset versions.

CABINETS 101 | Types of Cabinet Drawer Styles

Cabinet drawers are available with a variety of fronts, the most common being five-piece and slab. A cabinet’s drawer front style is determined by the overall cabinet door style that has been chosen.

Kitchen drawer fronts can vary within the room based on the drawer size. For instance, some door styles won’t work on smaller drawer configurations and might automatically call for a slab front. Many brands will offer drawer front upgrades for individual styles. Ask your designer about drawer front options.

When choosing cabinet drawers, here are some key terms to know.

Dovetail joint:   An interlocking corner joint where pins on one piece fit into sockets on a second piece.,

Drawer glide:   The system used to support the cabinetry drawers and provide opening/closing operation (availability of side and under-mount options vary by brand, as does availability of full- and 3/4-drawer extension).

Quiet Close:   A hinge that will softly close the cabinetry drawers while controlling slamming comes standard in many lines, but may also be an option on most drawers. Most of the time the mechanism is integrated into the glides or door hinges, and has an on/off switch.

CABINETS 101 | Types of Drawer Fronts

Kitchen drawer fronts can vary within the room based on the drawer size. For instance, some door styles won’t work on smaller drawer configurations and might automatically call for a slab front. Many brands will offer drawer front upgrades for individual styles. Ask your designer about drawer front options.

We design your dream.

We’ll help you define your dream space and we’ll keep you in the loop every step of the way. That’s just one of the many ways we put you first.  We’ll also educate you every step of the way so that you can feel good about the decisions you’re making.

We design your dream.

For showers, the most accessible option is a roll-in shower. This is a shower stall that has a curb-less entrance and the door (or opening) is a minimum of 36 inches wide. This would allow access for a wheelchair at some point and gives those who walk into the shower plenty of room to maneuver.

Our Portfolio

At Capitol Kitchens & Baths, we believe our experience speaks for itself and we hope you will enjoy browsing the photos in our portfolio.  Find your inspiration here and let one of our expert designers DESIGN YOUR DREAM.

When it comes to beauty, nothing can compare to Cambria®. But every one of Cambria’s designs are much more than just a pretty face. Look a little deeper and you’ll find the uncompromising quality and unbeatable performance that make Cambria the perfect choice for life.

Made in America – Hands-on Craftsmanship

Need a replacement for your pull-down kitchen faucet?

At Capitol, you have different options. You can choose pull-out kitchen faucets according to color, style, material, feature, mounting, handle type and even flow rate. For the full product catalogue, click here.

OUR PULL-DOWN KITCHEN FAUCET BRANDS

STYLES OF PULL-DOWN KITCHEN FAUCETS

Best kitchen sink for your kitchen

Most people don’t think about their kitchen sink much or how they use it while cooking, baking, or doing dishes- at least not until it’s time to replace it! So let’s talk about the options out there, what’s involved to replace it, and think about what type would best serve you and your family.

KITCHEN SINK SIZE:

Choosing the size and configuration that best fits your space and lifestyle is important.  Kitchen sinks are available in more shapes and sizes than ever before.  The interior width of the sink’s cabinet determines the maximum dimensions for your sink.  Standard kitchen cabinets come in size increments of 3″ starting at 9″ wide (9″, 12″, 15″, 18″, 21″ 24″, etc). There are a wide range of sinks to fit most standard cabinet sizes. Be sure to measure your cabinet size before selecting a kitchen sink.

What size do kitchen sinks come in?

The most common sizes are 25” wide and 33” wide. While most sinks are close to these sizes, there is a wide range of options available on the market today.

How do I know what size kitchen sink I need?

What size sink your kitchen can fit will depend on your cabinet size.
Measure your current cabinet from edge to edge (not the outside of your cabinet door necessarily but where the cabinet box’s edges are).

TIP: Standard cabinet sizes are in 3” increments. I.E.: 27”, 30”, 33”, 36”, etc.
In general, your sink should be at least 2-3” smaller than your cabinet size. For example, a 36” sink base cabinet can easily fit a 33” sink.

Do I choose my kitchen sink before my cabinets?

If you are currently replacing your cabinets, you can choose your sink base to fit your sink or vice versa. It’s best to choose your sink during the design process so you can change the sink base cabinet size to fit the sink you’ve chosen if needed.

Your designer will discuss with you the general sizing (ie: 25”, 33” or another size) while working on the design to make sure the sink base is the appropriate size to your preferences and the space of your kitchen. Before finalizing the design and ordering the cabinets, it is best to decide on your kitchen sink so you aren’t limited by your cabinet size.

TYPES OF KITCHEN SINKS:

What kitchen sink bowls and configurations are available?

Sink bowls fall into the following categories:

1) Single Bowl/ Single Kitchen Sink
2) Double Bowl, Double Kitchen Sink, Double Equal or 50/50
3) Offset Double Bowls or 70/30 or 60/40

Offset Double Bowls or 70/30 or 60/40 Sink (Consists of 2 bowls of different sizes)

• • These bowl sizes can vary greatly from SKU to SKU. 
    • Most sinks fall into either a 60/40 sink (consists of one bowl being slightly larger than the other bowl) or 70/30 sink (one bowl is significantly larger than the other bowl)

Different types of kitchen sink dividers :

Get the best of both worlds! 

Most brands of kitchen sinks now offer 2 different divider types. 

1) Traditional Sink – The material that creates the division between the two sides of the sink is the same depth as the overall sink. 

2) Low Divide Sink – Brands have different names for it (ie: Smart Divide; Aqua Divide, etc). The material that creates the division between the two sides of the sink is lower than the overall sink- generally less than 50% of the depth. This allows you to easily fit large pans or cookie sheets in the entire sink while still getting the benefit of divided bowls.

What is the difference between a drop-in, undermount, integrated and farmhouse kitchen sink?

Kohler Whitehaven apron-front sink

A apron-front sink, often called a farmhouse or farm sink, has a front piece exposed that appears to sit on the cabinet. It’s style is a nod to traditional farmhouse sinks. But today not all apron-front sinks have a traditional century old feel. They are available in almost all materials, have various designs available for the apron, and come in a variety of colors.

Best Kitchen Sink Material:

What types of materials do kitchen sinks come in?

Kitchen sinks are available in a variety of materials. 

BLANCO FIRECLAY SINKS

Fireclay sinks are manufactured from clay fired at an extremely high temperature, fireclay sinks are highly resistant to scratches, staining and chipping. Cleanup is easy — just dish soap on a sponge, or use a mild abrasive cleanser for tougher marks.

KITCHEN SINK FAUCETS AND ACCESSORIES:

Do I need to pick out my kitchen faucet before I purchase my kitchen sink?

Yes! Or you at least need to know what type of faucet you would like as depending on your sink type, you will need to know how many holes your faucet will require. 

When purchasing your sink, if it is a drop-in sink you will purchase a sink with the appropriate faucet and soap dispenser holes required. For undermount, you typically won’t need to know how many holes are required until the time of your countertop installation.

What are the different types of kitchen faucet configurations?

Kitchen faucets are available in 1- 2- 3- or 4-hole configurations.

4) FOUR-HOLE MOUNTING KITCHEN FAUCET  – Accommodates a two-handle faucet and a side spray.

REPLACEMENT KITCHEN SINKS WITHOUT A FULL KITCHEN REMODEL:

Countertops never get the day off. Handling daily abuse and looking beautiful at the same time is not easy.  Choosing your countertops can be overwhelming with all the choices out there.  This video Cambria Quartz explores three natural stone options and how they match up for durability, maintenance, porosity, hygiene, and, of course, beauty.