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May 27, 2016

Which Wood Type is Right for Your New Kitchen Cabinetry?

Although many of today’s new kitchen designs contain the modern elegance of glass and stainless steel, it’s often the warmth and texture of wood cabinetry that can make your kitchen feel like home.

Over the coming weeks, Monarch will be examining the different wood types available for your kitchen and bathroom cabinetry. This week, we take a look at the unique characteristics of maple.

Photo courtesy of Cuisines Laurier


Maple:

  • is a strong, resilient hardwood with a more uniform grain than other wood types
  • may include tiny "bird's eye" dots and mineral streaks
  • is known for its smooth texture and creamy white color, which can exhibit subtle variation from white to light brown
  • is an ideal wood species for painted, glazed and stained finishes
  • popular for its shock resistance and durability
  • produces a smooth, clean look when stained
  • can be finished to resemble other, more expensive, hardwoods and softwoods such as cherry and cedar
  • is a good choice if you’re looking for a light, airy kitchen or a dramatic kitchen with darker finishes



Are you ready to make your home renovation dreams a reality? Call Monarch Kitchen and Bath Centre at 905-686-2001, or drop by our kitchen and bath showroom and chat with a member of our design team.

May 19, 2016

Monarch Adds a Little Luxury to the Laundry Room


Laundry room design by Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre
Often placed in the basement and devoid of decor or design inspiration, the laundry room can be a forgotten space. It's no wonder no one ever wants to do laundry!

"Please get my laundry room out of the basement!” This was the request from a client of Monarch designer Janet Dawson.

"While the space I had to work with was small, the client's wish list was large," says Janet. "There had to be lots of counter space for folding, cabinetry that could withstand the rigours of high traffic, a sink, good lighting, lots of storage...and it had to look good, too!"
 
Laundry room design by Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre
To maximize counter and cabinet space, Janet's design includes a stacked washer and dryer in one corner of the room. The L-shaped cabinetry layout provides space for a folding area and a sink, and the glass and marble mosaic back splash accents the beautiful granite counter.

Laundry room design by Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre
"The Miralis cabinetry has a polyfibre finish and is extremely durable," explains Janet. "The large overhead light fixture and under-cabinet lighting ensure there is good lighting regardless of how bright it is outside." 

May 12, 2016

Spark up the Grill - It's Time for a Little Mealtime Inspiration!

The warmer weather is finally here, so take the cover off the barbecue and get ready to polish up your grilling techniques.

Here are some grilling tips, tricks and recipe ideas from Everyday Food and Foodwishes.com to get you on your way.





May 5, 2016

This Stylish En Suite Bath is Designed for Three

Ensuite Bath Design by Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre



While many en suite baths are tailored to meet the needs of an individual or twosome, Monarch designer Melissa Foley created a custom bath design for a couple and their daughter. 

Extended shower size in this ensuite bath design by Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre

Since a bathtub was not a necessity, Melissa designed a larger shower area with a bench and two niches. 

Assymetrical vanity with Caesarstone countertop. Design by Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre

The asymmetrical vanity allows for maximized storage and counter space -- a necessity for an en suite designed for three. Quartz countertop by Caesarstone.