Must-Have Kitchen Fixtures To Make Life Easier

streamlined kitchen design with grey and white colours

Everyone knows the standard kitchen fixtures that can be found in nearly every home: Sink, stove, refrigerator and so on. However, there is an assortment of unique and novel fixtures that could revolutionize the way you approach your kitchen space. Here are some of the most unexpected and innovative kitchen fixtures and appliances you should consider adding to your layout:

Double Ovens
If you are a family that entertains frequently or otherwise likes to prepare elaborate meals, a double oven is a great way to prepare food that may require more than one cooking temperature. Roast a chicken in one oven while you bake a batch of cookies for dessert in the other!

Separate Stove Burner Range
While a stove traditionally includes an oven and burner range heating component on top, separating the burner and stove can actually make cooking easier and more efficient. By separating the burner and oven, you can raise the oven higher so you need to do less bending and stooping. Meanwhile, the area under your stove range can be used as storage. Alternatively, having a cooktop on a centre island can also make your kitchen more attractive and functional.

Undercabinet Lighting
Often cabinets, while functional, may create logistical issues by obstructing your overhead lights and creating dark areas. Installing LED undercabinet lighting can fight these shadowy areas and make it easier to prep for meals.

Double Bowl Sinks
While Houzz characterized these sinks as somewhat "controversial" as a must-have, many homeowners prefer the ease and efficiency of having a sink broken into two basins. For homeowners who find themselves hand-washing dishes might find a double bowl sink easier to work with. Alternatively, a double dishwasher can accomplish the same basic effect, and is particularly useful if you entertain or have highly attended meals often.

The double sink can make meal cleanup a breeze. The double sink can make meal cleanup a breeze.

Special Prep Sink 
Another sink alternative is having multiple sinks with different uses. A prep sink – distinct from a sink devoted to washing dishes – is a great way to make use of space and streamline cooking while someone else cleans up.

Two-Person Table
If you have a smaller kitchen or live in a house with only your partner or spouse, a full-sized dining room table might not be needed. A simple two- or three-person table can save space while still maintaining an attractive and utilitarian overall design.

Counter Garage
Confused by the name? Do not worry, it is pretty much exactly what it sounds like: According to Better Homes & Gardens, an on-counter garage is an area that houses an appliance you use frequently, but would prefer to remain out of sight when not in use. Like a garage for a car, an on-counter garage often has a roll-up door that can conceal devices like mixers, blenders, microwaves or other appliances.

Counter-Depth Fridge
As fridges expand and hold more and more food, kitchen space comes at a higher premium. If space efficiency is your top priority, something like a a counter-depth fridge – a refrigerator that is under 72 centimeters deep, often making up from the shallowness with greater height – can visually streamline your kitchen by sitting flush with counters and cabinets.

"Induction is generally safer and easier to clean."

Induction Cooktops
Induction cooktops are one of the latest innovations in cooking technology: Using an electromagnetic field below a glass surface rather than direct flame or warming electrical coils, induction cooktops heat up the pans rather than the cooking surface. The primary result is faster cooking. For example, according to Consumer Reports, boiling 6 quarts of water takes 2 to 4 minutes less time than a traditional cooktop. At the same time, since the surface of the cooktop is not heated directly, induction is generally safer and easier to clean, particularly if the house has small children. However, for it to work correctly, the homeowner must have induction-capable cookware.

Deep Drawers
Many kitchen designers make the mistake of only putting in large drawers or cabinets far from stoves and sinks. Better Homes & Gardens recommends that deep drawers be situated next to the kitchen range for easy access to pots and pans. These drawers are much more accessible than cabinets, able to be pulled out so the appropriate cookware can be removed at a moment's notice.

Hot Water Dispensers
If you drink a lot of tea or boil water frequently as part of meal prep, a hot water dispenser can be indispensable. Similarly, a cold-water dispenser – ideally paired with a reverse-osmosis filtration system – can act as your faucet designated for drinking water.

Stop by a Wolseley Kitchen and Bath Classics showroom today to get a few ideas for how you can remake your kitchen!

Dos and Don’ts of Bathroom Lighting

When lighting a bathroom keep these helpful tips in mind 16001529 40041276 0 14088867 500

 

Bathrooms are unique – and often challenging – spaces to illuminate: Ideally, you want to maximize warm, soft, natural light as much as possible to make the space feel inviting. At the same time, preserving privacy and functionality means you can’t always utilize light from windows. Check out the following bathroom lighting Dos and Don’ts to make sure you are making the most of the room:

DO Flank the Bathroom Mirror With Lights
While an overhead or ceiling light can provide more comprehensive illumination, the lighting demands of grooming and personal hygiene are different. When looking in a mirror, you want direct lighting that minimizes shadows or splotches, allowing you to see yourself clearly. For this reason, always install lighting around a mirror so that you have an unobstructed, fully-illuminated view.

DON’T Add a Light Above the Mirror 
At the same time, a single overhead light positioned right above a mirror, no matter how bright, isn’t flattering or functional, said lighting designer Randall Whitehead.

“That would throw a strong light onto your forehead and cast deep shadows below your eyes, nose and chin,” Whitehead said. “Not only is this light ineffective for shaving or applying makeup, it can visually age you by 10 years. People should look their best when they look at their reflection.”

Bathroom illumination is crucialBathroom illumination is crucial.

DON’T Create Uneven Illumination
While many try to create a relaxing or spa-like atmosphere in their bathrooms, using recessed or underpowered lights in a bathroom, according to San Francisco–based designer Geoffrey De Sousa, can result in a bathroom seeming underlit or casting unflattering shadows.

“Another problem is when people install too many recessed fixtures so the ceiling looks like a sea of black holes,” De Sousa told YLighting. “Asymmetrical lighting is another mistake. Placing a fixture on just one side of your mirror will create uneven illumination and make grooming difficult. Lastly, clear bulbs with filaments are popular these days, but they cast a shadow on everything. Go for something opaque or frosted instead.”

DO Put Lights on Dimmers
For homeowners looking for flexibility in their bathroom lighting, De Sousa recommended that dimmers can make the room more functional and inviting. These dimmers, combined with energy efficient LED lights, can also reduce your power consumption when you use the bathroom.

DON’T Ignore The Bulbs You Use
The kind of bulbs you use in your lighting fixtures don’t just have an impact on how much energy you consume, they also render color in unique ways. Lumens spelled out a few of the most common bulbs used in bathroom lighting and their various qualities, including:

  • Incandescent, which cast a warm or cool white light.
  • Compact Fluorescent, which, when paired with a Color Rendering Index over 90, displays colors in a way that simulates daylight.
  • LEDs, which consume less electricity, last longer and are more easily dimmable.

Lumens recommended that each bulb should have an ideal color temperature is between 2700K and 3000K. De Sousa added one of his favorite bulbs for use in bathrooms is the MR-16 bulb.

“It works with low-voltage recessed fixtures and gives off crisp, clear light—up to 75 watts—but it’s dimmable, so it’s really versatile,” said De Sousa.

DO Consider All Elements Before Installing a Chandelier 
Chandeliers can be a beautiful, classically-inspired way to add illumination and elegance to a bathroom – but they can also be challenging. As This Old House points out, chandeliers require proper clearance, must be U.L. rated for moisture and protected with a ground-fault circuit interrupter to limit the risk of shocks. For bathrooms without the high ceilings required for safety, This Old House suggests installing decorative candle fixtures instead of a chandler.

Visit Wolseley Studio in Calgary or Kitchen & Bath showrooms in Lethbridge, Saskatoon or Regina and explore our wide selection of bathroom lighting fixtures. You’ll be inspired to take your water closet to new heights of beauty and elegance with the help of our knowledgeable staff.

Tips for designing a minimalist kitchen

A minimalist kitchen is attractive and functional  16001529 40041064 0 14136004 500

When it comes to home decor, sometimes less is more. Or at least that's the case in light of the minimalist trend. Focused on improving your lifestyle through simplification, minimalism is not only a life philosophy, it's a popular decorating theme. Due to its sheer functionality and tendency to become cluttered, the kitchen is a room that can really benefit from this kind of simplistic design. By implementing a few of its strategies, you'll likely find that your kitchen isn't just more visually appealing – it's also easier to use. 

Simple doesn't have to equal boring. Use these tips to create a perfectly beautiful – and interesting – minimalist kitchen.

1. Get rid of the clutter
Your first step in route to a minimalist kitchen is to get rid of the clutter. And that doesn't just mean the old magazines and bills littering the counter. Take a look at the small appliances, fruit bowls and other decorative pitchers that reside in your kitchen and see which ones you can put away. The key to minimalist decor is creating as much empty space as possible, so make the most of storage that is behind closed doors. 

If you don't have a lot of storage space, you may want to consider getting rid of some of the kitchen items you don't use regularly. The blog Becoming Minimalist reported that unless you're an avid cooking and baking enthusiast, you can probably get rid of the following kitchen tools that are taking up space on your counter and in your cabinets:

  • Knife block.
  • Bread maker.
  • Espresso machine.
  • Rice maker.
  • Panini press.
  • Wok.
  • Extra mugs.

2. Rethink your color scheme
If you really want to design a minimalist kitchen, grab your paint brush and get ready to rethink your color scheme. A solid color palette – preferably in neutral tones – is critical for this decorating theme. As an added bonus, this strategy doesn't only make the room look simpler. According to Apartment Therapy, using colors that are all in the same family with minimal contrast makes the area appear more spacious than it actually is. 

Using neutral tones that are all in the same color scheme on your walls and cabinets will create an open, airy feel to the room.Using neutral tones that are all in the same color scheme on your walls and cabinets will create an open, airy feel to the room.

3. Switch out your faucets
Your sink is a great place to work on the minimalist theme. Switch out your current  faucets for a sleek, chrome option that will breathe a modern feel into your kitchen. To view a wide variety of choices for playing up this theme, visit a Wolseley Canada showroom where a sales associate will help you find the perfect faucet.  

4. Get rid of the knobs
Ready for a weekend project? Simplify your kitchen by taking out your current cabinet doors and replacing them with plain, solid-colored doors without knobs. If you don't want the doors to be completely plain, you can opt for a simple bar instead of more traditional round knobs. 

However, if you aren't looking for such a time-intensive project, just switch out your current knobs with a simpler option for a quick update. 

5 ways to declutter your bathroom

Declutter your bathroom with these easy tips  16001529 40040972 0 14023379 500

You probably store a lot of products, towels and other necessities in the bathroom. From toothbrushes and toothpaste to shampoo and shower gel, the room needs to hold a large number of things that are essential for both your morning and evening routines. Consequently, you may find that your bathroom can become cluttered fairly easily, especially if there's not a lot of space to begin with. 

No matter the size of your bathroom, the space will feel much airier once you've decluttered it using these five simple steps:

1. Use it or lose it
One of the simplest ways to declutter your bathroom is to set aside some time to go through all your products and decide what you actually use and get rid of the rest. After all, how many hotel shampoos and conditioners does one person really need? The same goes for all those odds and ends that are either broken or never used. Remember that blow dryer that hasn't worked for more than a year? Time to let it go. Sorting through all of your cabinets and drawers and getting rid of the things that you don't use will free up space for the products that you actually need. Plus, now you'll most likely have the space to store them in a more organized manner. It's a win-win. 

2. Clear the countertop
If you have guests coming over and need to get rid of clutter quickly, clearing the countertop should be your first step. If your bathroom is feeling a bit cramped, chances are that a lot of the blame lies with all the items that are laying out around the sink. Invest in some baskets and other containers to put in your drawers so it's easy to put things away quickly without creating a jumbled mess. 

While you'll probably want to keep a few things on the counter – like your toothbrush and maybe a box of tissues – try to avoid more than is absolutely necessary. Having that open area will help make your room appear more spacious. HGTV even recommended installing wall-mounted holders for items like soap and your toothbrush to decrease clutter on the counter. 

A clear counter can make your bathroom look less cluttered within minutes. A clear counter can make your bathroom look less cluttered within minutes.

3. Make the most of your space
Even if you have a small bathroom, you probably still have room to create more storage opportunities if you get creative. For example, the empty space above your toilet is the perfect spot for a few extra shelves, as is the area under the sink. While it might be difficult to fit a full-sized cabinet in the bathroom, you may also be able to add thin or short  set of drawers in a narrow gap. Better Homes & Gardens recommended considering half-height cabinets under the windows for extra storage room that won't overwhelm the space.  

While extra storage options can really decrease the clutter in your bathroom, make sure you don't overdo it. If you cram every spare inch with a cabinet or basket, your bathroom will still look crowded even though it's more organized. If you have a nearby closet, consider storing some products there that you don't use as often, such as first aid supplies. 

4. Take advantage of the backs of doors
When it comes to storage space, don't forget some of the less obvious places, like the back of cabinet doors. Better Homes & Gardens recommended attaching magnetic strips or small hooks on those areas to help organize and hide away your smaller bathroom items, like manicure scissors or hair accessories. 

The back of the bathroom door itself can also be used for additional storage. You can easily hang a rack over the door that will keep your extra towels organized, but close at hand. 

5. Choose minimalist decor
If you have a small bathroom, or just want your space to appear larger, choosing a minimalist theme for your decor is the way to go. Keeping the esthetic of the room simple will help the space look less cluttered. Pass on clustered small candles and picture frames and opt for a single potted plant on the counter or a lone painting on the wall. A good rule of thumb is to avoid any decoration smaller than a grapefruit. When it comes to decorating your room, less is more when clutter is a high concern. 

You can also choose simple fixtures and bathroom accessories to complement your minimalist theme. To find the perfect options for simplifying your bathroom decor, visit a Wolseley Canada showroom, where you can explore a wide selection of faucets, shower heads and more. Sleek, modern fixtures will give your bathroom a clean, organized look that you're sure to love. 

Conserve water around the house with these simple tips

Conserve water around the house with these tips  16001529 40040927 0 14088443 500

Drip… drip…. drip…

Hear that sound? A leaking faucet isn't just an annoyance. It's one of the many ways that you waste water every day around the house. According to McGill University, Canadians use an average of 329 litres of water every day at home, only 10 percent of which goes to drinking and cooking. Because drinkable water is a limited resource that's necessary for human life, finding ways to cut down on wasting this essential liquid is something in which every person should be involved. 

Making your house more eco-friendly doesn't need to be a huge project. In fact, there are multiple changes you can make that take little effort on your part – just a bit of foresight. Use this simple guide to get started improving your water conservation around the house today.  

Assess your home
When it comes to saving water, the first step is to check your home for those pesky leaks. According to National Geographic, nearly 40 liters of water – or about 14 percent of a person's indoor water use – is wasted each day due to leaks alone. And your faucets aren't the only place where that liquid might be escaping. Make sure to stick your head underneath your sinks to check the pipes and look at the seals around your water heater.

Some of the leaks may not be as obvious. For example, water from your toilet tank may be escaping into bowl without any auditory or visual cues. The Regional Water Providers Consortium recommended putting a few drops of food dye in the tank -without flushing – and checking back in 15 minutes. If the water in the toilet bowl changed color, you know that you have a leak.

How full is your dishwasher when you run it? Are you running your dishwasher before it's completely full? 

Implement new best practices
After you fix any leaks, it's time to assess the way you use water around the house. For instance, you can increase conservation simply by using your dishwasher more efficiently. Rather than running it every night before bed or an otherwise convenience-based schedule, be sure to wait until it's full to reduce the number of loads you do each week. The same goes for the laundry machine. Unless you have a setting for different sized loads, try to avoid running a cycle just for a couple shirts that you could easily wash by hand. If you do have different settings, make sure that you're using the correct one to conserve water.

Being strategic with your showers is another way to conserve water in your home. McGill reported that 35 percent of domestic water use in Canada goes toward bathing. While you don't need to skip showers altogether – and probably shouldn't either, for that matter – limiting the time you spend standing under the water is an easy way to be more strategic with your water consumption. Save those nice, long showers for special occasions. 

Replace your fixtures and appliances
While changing your habits around the house can have a significant impact on your water use, you can reduce even farther by installing water-efficient appliances and fixtures. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, this alone could reduce water consumption by about 30 percent. 

Your shower is one part of your home that can really benefit from this strategy. National Geographic reported that during the course of a 10-minute shower, a low-flow the showerhead will save you about 57 litres of water. If you shower every day, that's a savings of more than 20,000 litres each year. Changing the showerhead is a small fix that can have a big impact. 

Your toilet is another component of your bathroom that can be more efficient in terms of water use. A low flush, high efficiency or duel model toilet can save liters of water with every flush, according to the Sustainable Sanitation and Water Management Toolbox. 

To find the right water-efficient fixtures for your home, visit a Wolseley showroom and explore our wide selection. An associate will be happy to help you find the perfect solution to increase water conservation in your house while also elevating the style of your rooms. 

5 easy kitchen upgrades to start this weekend

Upgrade your kitchen with these easy projects 16001529 40040701 0 14135567 500

Whether you're a gourmet chef or more of a microwave dinner kind of person, you probably spend a decent amount of time in your kitchen. Consequently, if you want to do some minor home renovation projects that you'll be able to enjoy on a regular basis, the kitchen is a great place to start. A few simple changes can make even the dreaded chore of washing dishes more exciting – or at least more visually appealing. 

When it comes to home renovation, sometimes little changes can make a big difference. Upgrade your kitchen this weekend with these five easy projects perfect for any skill level:

1. Paint the cabinets. 
Sometimes all it takes to freshen up your kitchen is a new coat of paint. You don't even need to worry about the walls – simply changing the color of your cabinets can really alter the feel of the room.  While a bright shade may be tempting, you might want to reconsider. According Oprah.com, you should opt for a more neutral tone. Jesse Carrier, of  New York City interior design firm Carrier and Company, agreed. 

"Go calm and light — you're in the kitchen all the time, and you can grow tired of a bright color," Carrier told the publication. 

His personal recommendation is a white with a gray undertone, as beige tones can look dirty and stark white is institutional. 

2. Install under cabinet lighting. 
There's nothing like a little mood lighting – even if it's for your kitchen. Add a bit of class to your countertops by installing under cabinet lighting. All you need to do is buy a few click on LED lights and stick them underneath your cabinets. Then, with the push of a button, you'll be able to turn on the lights whenever you need them, no complicated wiring necessary. Better yet, you'll also likely find that it's easier to read cookbooks and labels with that extra bit of light shining from under your kitchen shelving. 

You can't go wrong with an extra bit of light in your kitchen, especially when it comes to making your favorite coffee.You can't go wrong with an extra bit of light in your kitchen, especially when it comes to making your favorite coffee.

3. Buy new knobs. 
Looking for a little change that can make a big difference? Try replacing the knobs on your cabinets and drawers. All it takes is a screwdriver and a little bit of time. You should probably go for something classic if you already have a busy pattern on your walls or elaborate lighting fixtures as focal points. But if your kitchen is simple, consider opting for something more unique to make a statement. It's an extremely affordable way to dress up your kitchen. 

4. Remove cabinet doors. 
If your kitchen is narrow, Better Homes and Gardens recommended giving the room a sense of openness by removing the doors from your cabinets. And what better way to show off all of your favorite decorative dishware? Once you take off the doors, the publication reported that you'll need to fill the holes with wood filler and sand the areas until smooth before painting or staining the cabinets. 

A sleek, chrome faucet can give a modern feel to your kitchen. A sleek, chrome faucet can give a modern feel to your kitchen.  

5. Replace your faucet. 
If you're tired of your boring fixtures, there's no need to deal them any longer. Replacing your faucet is an easy way to give your kitchen a different look. Go for something modern, like a minimalist, chrome touchless faucet. Or consider a more decorative option to finish off your farmhouse kitchen theme decor. With so many different styles, in regards to both function and appearance, changing this element of your sink can have a big impact on the tone of the entire room. 

Want to see a variety of faucets and other essential fixtures to complete your kitchen upgrade? Visit a Wolseley Kitchen showroom, where our experts will help you make the perfect decision for elevating the decor of your room. 

6 Tips for Promoting Efficiency and Reducing Your Monthly Utility Bills

Heres how homeowners can promote efficiency around the house in a way that benefits their wallet and the planet 16001529 40040140 0 14005528 500

Sometimes, the best way to lower the amount of resources your family uses is to promote efficiency around the house. Not only does the planet benefit from your improved environmental footprint, but there are financial gains as well.

Lowering your electricity or water usage has a positive effect on your monthly utility bills. As Canadian Home Workshop reported, there is also a long list of government rebate programs and subsidies that allow for even greater savings for homeowners who promote efficiency around the house.

Along with promoting energy efficiency, simply being more mindful of how your family uses resources will lead to financial gains as well. Use this guide to select a few key changes to make:

1. Start with the small stuff
There are plenty of ideas that are worth considering before you dive into a larger project. They are quick and easy to implement and will add up considerably. Energy-efficient light bulbs make a meaningful impact on how much electricity your family uses. Your local hardware store will have a few other items that promote smarter resource use as well, from dimmer switches to environmentally friendly household goods.

Insulation is especially powerful for making a lasting change. Aside from fiberglass installations in the attic or basement, plastic film and rubber stoppers that reinforce doors or windows can minimize leakage from your home. That means less work for your air conditioner in the summer and your home heating system in the winter.

There are plenty of other small steps to take as well. Keep your fridge fully stocked to promote efficiency, consider taking shorter showers, and look for opportunities to reuse or recycle household goods. Over time, these little changes can result in considerable savings. As the Canadian Energy Efficiency Alliance found, your best approach is to combine a number of different steps rather than look for one single solution to lower resource use.

Energy efficient lightbulbs are small but powerful resources for homeowners.Energy efficient light bulbs are small but powerful resources for homeowners.

2. Make some key upgrades
Once you've made small improvements around the house, you should next eye a more serious change. Investing in a new appliance or fixture can yield a return on investment because of more efficient resource use. The latest refrigerators, washing machines and other systems monitor electricity use and are capable of doing a better job than an older model at a fraction of the operating costs.

A new toilet, shower or sink fixture, meanwhile, greatly reduces the amount of water your family uses on a daily basis. And not only does selecting a new system promote efficiency, but the newest models are quite stylish and attractive. To learn more about eco-friendly home fixtures, be sure to visit a Kitchen & Bath Classics Showroom.

3. Get smart about home heating
As Natural Resources Canada found, how you heat your home can have a lasting impact on your home heating bill. This includes not only what energy source your family uses but the actual system that exists in your home.

"Homeowners can achieve savings of 15 to 20 percent by being more efficient."

Making a change here can positively impact your utility costs. A simpler step is to install a smart thermostat. In this way, you can better account for when your home is empty and you're unnecessarily running the heat.

The best models come with accompanying smartphone apps that make it easy to monitor home heating use. NRCan found that homeowners can achieve savings of 15 to 20 percent by being more efficient when it comes to running the heat.

4. Hone in on hidden energy use
Doing what you can to promote efficiency around the home using the latest technology is a great way to protect the planet and also benefit from savings each month. But even with smart tools and systems designed to be more cost-effective, you may unwittingly be paying too much in electricity.

So-called phantom charges increase your utility bills. Even when they're not being used, electronics and appliances of all types use a small amount of electricity adds to your home's overall energy use over time. Jeff Smith of Pacific Gas and Electric told MarketWatch that 10 percent of a home's electricity bill can be attributed to phantom charges.

Disconnecting electronics is a smart place to begin in combating this problem. Next, consider appliances and technologies that boast energy-efficiency standards. Otherwise, power strips and outlets that have switches help reduce instances of phantom charges.

Power strips can help curb phantom charges.Power strips can help curb phantom charges.

5. Consider externalities
The next step in promoting efficient resource use is to take stock of things outside the house. For example, your pool may be using an unnecessary amount of electricity. Use a cover to keep things warm and stay proactive about cleaning up to reduce how much work your filter is doing.

To really become more cost-effective, change how you get around town. Carpooling reduces the amount of driving you do, as does biking or taking public transportation. Even a small improvement in conjunction with other steps on this list can make a sizeable impact.

6. Work with nature
There are quite a few changes to make around the yard that will further promote efficient energy use. Mother Nature can be a major ally on this front.

First, plant trees that will shade your home in the summer and provide a natural cooling system. To further drive benefits, select species that will drink up rainwater and reduce instances of flooding. A shallow depression full of thirsty plants serves as a rain garden to collect runoff. Place a barrel beneath your gutter to capture rain to be used for future landscaping so you need not inflate your water bill.

How to Make a Small Space Feel Bigger

Use these tips to make a small space feel much more inviting and open 16001529 40040050 0 14118341 500

There are plenty of steps you can take to make even the most cramped spaces in your home feel larger and more inviting. Simple steps or small renovation projects can pay dividends in the look of a room and completely change its overall vibe.

Whether in the bathroom, the kitchen or the living room, there are clever tricks and simple ideas to make things feel a bit more spacious. Here are some of the best tips to consider:

The kitchen
Whether you're hosting guests for a mid-morning brunch or simply putting together a weekday dinner, a small, cramped kitchen is less than ideal. Rather than undergoing a full-blown remodeling, however, there are plenty of ways to not only increase the amount of space but to give the room a more inviting appeal.

For example, the National Kitchen and Bath Association told the DIY Network that installing a new, sleek appliance can help in the functionality of your kitchen as well as improve its aesthetic charm. Similarly, replace an old sink fixture for a model that is refined and elegant. Chose one or two upgrades to help make your kitchen feel less crowded.

"In any kitchen, a simplistic approach is a good choice."

To further make your kitchen feel bigger than it is, you should find ways to reduce unnecessary clutter. This might mean consolidating counter-top appliances but can also be achieved by simply cleaning up a bulletin board or getting rid of decorative knick-knacks. In any kitchen, a simplistic approach is a good choice, but in smaller spaces this becomes essential.

There are also a few ideas that are less obvious but subtly make your kitchen feel more open. Better Homes and Garden stated that a white paint job can go a long way. This reflects light and creates a new sense of depth and space. Even replacing wooden cabinets with glass ones if effective to that end.

The bathroom
Many of the same steps to take in the kitchen can also be used to make your bathroom feel bigger and less cramped. One step to take is to swap out an opaque shower door with a glass one. Matt Plaskoff, a former consultant to the show Extreme Makeover: Home Edition, told Oprah.com that this makes the bathroom feel like one big room, while a door that isn't transparent effectively cuts the room in half.

To physically add more space, you need to assess how much storage you truly need. If your drawers are full of useful items, then you may be best served swapping out a vanity for one that offers the same storage capacity but is a little more compact. Even saving a few inches can make a big difference in a small bathroom. If, however, you can afford to do away with bulky storage, there are many exciting options for making a positive change. A pedestal sink serves to open up the room and is an attractive new addition to any bathroom.

Overall, look to get creative about where you store your toiletries and extra towels. Replace bulky medicine cabinets for a simple, flat mirror. Install a shelf in the shower to place useful items. Make use of that hallway closet. Brainstorm what can be replaced or changed and consider additions that will be the most advantageous.

As in the kitchen, a fresh coat of white, eggshell or calming blue paint will give your bathroom a more open appeal. Consider changing out older light fixtures for simple ones that give the room character and also take up less space. For a larger project, consider installing a window or skylight to really open things up.

Even adding a simple shelf can make a meaningful improvement to your bathroom.Even adding a simple shelf can make a meaningful improvement to your bathroom.

The living room
Like the kitchen, your living room is one of the most dynamic places in your home. You want it to be as comfortable and feel as spacious as possible. This starts with how you furnish the space.

Bulky furniture, of course, takes up what precious space you have, but HGTV found that mismatched pieces only exacerbate this issue. Your best bet is to chose items that aren't just simple and sleek but also work together to give the room a cohesive charm. Select colors and textures that don't clash too much.

You also want to pick furniture that is as useful as possible. Ottomans that offer storage space, tables with drawers and other pieces can be used to reduce clutter while making sure everything you need is accessible. A large decorative mirror, meanwhile, subtly gives the room a sense of depth.

From there, consider making a few design changes that will physically open up more space. Mount a television on the wall or try consolidating bulky arm chairs into a single love seat.

Around the home you have many options for making small spaces feel better. Above all else, look for ways to reduce clutter, integrate elegant furnishings and err on the side of simplicity. Head to a Kitchen and Bath showroom to find ways to make a positive impact at your house.

7 Ideas to Make Your Kitchen More Inviting

These small changes will help to make your kitchen a more alluring place to be 16001529 40039685 0 14132929 500

You spend a surprisingly large portion of your day in the kitchen. According to the Canadian government, on average an individual dedicates nearly two hours or more on meal preparation, eating and cleaning. For that reason alone, it's worth making sure your kitchen is an enjoyable, comfortable place to be.

By making a few small changes, however, you can make your kitchen even more inviting. That way, the space becomes more than just a place to whip up dinner and do the dishes, but instead it transforms into a dynamic and attractive place to be. Consider these simple ideas that could help revolutionize your kitchen:

1. Prioritise seating
If you want your kitchen to be a nice place to spend time, having a pleasant spot to take a load off is essential. As Apartment Therapy pointed out, it makes sense to center seating around a central piece of furniture, usually a place to enjoy a meal.

Even if space is limited, you can still give your kitchen a bit of depth. Use an island or small table to expand counter space, and select a few barstools or chairs. This way your family can happily grab a healthy breakfast or catch-up over a mid-afternoon snack. Adding a bit of seating also makes your kitchen a good spot for treating guests to a homemade cocktail.

Stools give your family and friends new places to relax in the kitchen.Stools give your family and friends new places to relax in the kitchen.

2. Bring in some colour
One of the easiest – and most cost-effective – means of adding a splash of personality to any space is by installing a bit of chromatic flair. A fresh paint job gives your kitchen a new sense of character, even if you just opt to add colour to one wall.

There are plenty of other ways to give your kitchen some vibrance. Decorative towels and ornamental pieces are great ways to infuse color and sensibility, while wall art can serve as a focal point of your design scheme.

3. Consider lighting
As you ponder bringing in some colour to your kitchen, you need to also review the lighting. It may be the case that looking for opportunities to brighten up the space will work just as well as adding a bit of colouring.

Natural light is an interesting resource. On the one hand, you can pair early morning sunshine or a setting sun with light hues that reinforce an almost angelic vibe. But you may also find that richer patterns clash with lighting in an exciting and bold way. In either case, this will work to make your kitchen more interesting and unique, which in turn creates a more memorable and inviting vibe.

4. Find ways to reduce clutter
Oprah.com found that while clean, open spaces are appealing, cluttered countertops and messy kitchen tables are rather off-putting. Luckily, this is an easy and straightforward problem to address.

"Consider ways to increase the amount of useable space."

First, find ways to get organized. Clean up old junk mail, sticky notes and other items that may be pilling up. Reduce the number of framed photos or other decorative pieces to create a calmer atmosphere, and make sure your family is on board with the expectation of staying organized.

Next, consider ways to increase the amount of useable space. Hanging pots and pans overhead can be efficient and stylish but aesthetically crowded. Instead, try a magnetic knife strip to give your kitchen a level of visual depth while improving physically accessible areas.

5. Go natural
Making your kitchen more inviting means that aside from being clean and relaxing, it should also have a sense of soul. A few well-placed plants is an excellent way to make this space more cozy without sacrificing modernity. 

There are dozens of plants that are low-maintenance, meaning you need not worry about your decorative flair dying. In fact, many types of herbs are rather hardy. That way you can benefit both your kitchen's overall vibe and your culinary explorations.

6. Keep things clean
There are dozens of different steps you can take to make your kitchen more inviting, but without proper upkeep, this quickly falls apart. According to the San Francisco Chronicle, keeping things spick-and-span is crucial for maintaining a comfortable atmosphere, beyond just tidying up. 

7. Bring in something new
Perhaps what your space needs most is an upgrade to an existing fixture or appliance. The right kitchen sink or faucet might be enough to give your kitchen an arresting new appeal. Kitchen & Bath Classics is a homeowner-friendly wholesale showroom designed and operated by Wolseley and has options for any sensibility.

7 Ways You Can Increase the Value of Your Home

Use these simple tips to make a few changes around the house and improve your homes overall value 16001529 40039376 0 14124928 500

The overall value of your home depends on a number of complicated factors, but there are small ways you can increase your asking price. Household projects that make your home more appealing and inviting will excite potential buyers and can eventually lead to a healthy return on investment when a deal is closed. Consider these easy steps to improve your home's value:

1. Upgrade an old appliance
The kitchen is an essential part of what makes your house a home, and as such, you want to make sure this space is as useful as it is visually appealing. An old fridge or dishwasher dates the room and also dictates design possibilities, while more modern, sleeker models give your kitchen new life. Similarly, if you appliances are especially old, they may not work as well as they used to. Newer options, meanwhile, are often more efficient and quiet, which will be quite appealing to any would-be buyers.

2. Plant a few trees
HGTV found that landscaping makes a big difference when it comes to your home's overall curb appeal, and a few well-placed trees are the crucible of an inviting, attractive property. You will want to be careful about selecting the right species and location, but this can be a relatively inexpensive way to make an impact on your asking price. And aside from being visually appealing, trees shade your home in the summer, potentially lowering the amount you need to run the air conditioning. 

A few well-placed trees can increase your home's curb appeal.A few well-placed trees can increase your home's curb appeal.

3. Renovate a bathroom
A potential buyer may be impressed by your well-manicured lawn and modern kitchen but can still be turned off if they discover a bathroom full of grime and outdated fixtures. Consider making changes to a downstairs or master bathroom in an effort to make your home more memorable.

Gwen Moran, co-author of "Build Your Own Home on a Shoestring." told Bankrate that making meaningful changes to your bathroom is relatively inexpensive, but also a reasonable project for homeowners to consider tackling on their own.

4. Break out the paint
A fresh coat of paint can help make a room seem more fashionable and newer, but the right color choice can also convey a mood and sense of vitality. Use this as a launch pad for reimagining a space ahead of a showing. 

For example, consider a soft hue in the kitchen to make it feel more appealing and reinforce this by bringing in new lights. In the living room, try a richer, darker shade to create a regal, relaxed atmosphere. 

5. Get proactive about outstanding issues
An inspection is an important part of selling a home, and if a major issue is uncovered late in the process, the final sale price could drop considerably. Staying ahead of the curve is a way to address issues as soon as possible.

Smaller home repairs are also helpful. These can make your home more visually appealing – as well as more functional and safe. Spend a weekend crossing off the projects on your list that you've been putting off.

Address any necessary home repairs before they affect your home's value.Address any necessary home repairs before they affect your home's value.

6. Check out the floors
A worn carpet is another way your home can show its age. Stains or tears are particularly off-putting and should be addressed. Even if you don't outright replace a carpet, you can cover up blemishes with well-placed furniture or decor like throw rugs. In fact, some buyers may look forward to selecting their own carpet, so only replace your carpet if it's well past its prime.

Hardwood floors are quite attractive, but scratches and other issues can be just as discouraging as an old carpet. For that reason, consider paying for a repair or otherwise cover up any blemishes as best you can.

7. Think like a buyer
One of the best ways to assess the potential appeal of your home is to investigate it through the eyes of a potential buyer. Give everything a proper assessment and don't talk yourself out of addressing an obvious issue. Similarly, remember that a buyer will be acutely aware of clutter or poor interior design. Keep things organized and use potted plants or framed photos to make your home look a little more arresting. 

To see a few options for making a positive change, head to a Wolseley Kitchen showroom. Our experts can support you in selecting the right addition to your home. For more information check out one of our showrooms today!