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In convection ovens, multiple heat sources and fans are used to distribute heat evenly throughout the oven cavity. This results in uniform temperatures for even cooking and also reduces cooking time.

Convection is a step on technology’s path. The next generation of convection ovens is the steam oven. Cooking with steam maintains nutrients, and the moisture in the process eliminates the need for oil. It also makes it the perfect technology choice for folks who want to give new life to leftovers. Use steam and convection together for food that’s tender inside and roasted or crisped outside.

We have WolfJenn-Air and Miele steam ovens live on display in our showrooms so you can experience this cooking revolution first-hand. Skeptical about our use of the word “revolution?” Check out these Philo-wrapped Ice Cream desserts

Convection and steam technology affords us healthier, more efficiently prepared food. How can convection cooking change your experience in the kitchen? Schedule an appointment at our showrooms to find out!

Idea File: Barn Doors

The use of sliding doors for interior design applications is becoming increasingly popular, which really comes as no surprise, as they create a vertical visual statement and can offer privacy in a space not ideal for a traditional interior door. Not to mention, this is one of the number one tips for small space living!

Sliding doors have advantages over regular interior doors in that they require less actual room space and can conceal a wider opening than a regular interior door. Sliding interior doors also tend to be more stylish and chic than most regular doors (think bi-fold closet doors!), while still maintaining simplicity. They can work great in smaller spaces like a home office or en suite closet or bathroom. Plus, you can always make better use of the space saved!

Sliding interior doors are perfect for hiding a room, or space in your home where you want to maintain a minimalist interior décor. And they’re not tied to only one particular style – you can go with rustic, modern, traditional, contemporary or even vintage sliding interior doors.

Today there are quite a few options for sliding doors and they are available in a variety of designs, styles, shapes, sizes and budgets. Lowes and Home Depot offer many affordable options, while companies like Old Biscayne Designs (www.oldbiscaynedesigns.com) offer custom, higher end options.

Here’s a look at some great uses of interior sliding doors in today’s modern homes.

A sliding interior door could be ideal for a transitional space like an entry hallway, and offer the option of separation with an adjoining family room or kitchen.

Sliding doors are a great option to close off an office nook when work hours are over!

Pairing up vintage doors makes an elegant sliding door option.

A sliding door can close off a stairway when needed for toddlers or pets.

A sliding door is a stylish option for a master bath when space is too tight for a traditional door.

Deep Soak: Freestanding or Built-in Bathtubs

Among the many decisions to make when designing your dream bathroom, one of the biggest—literally—is whether to have a bathtub, and if so, choosing between freestanding or built-in. Recently, people have been ripping out bathtubs in favor of walk-in showers, but most real estate agents will still advise that for young families, tubs are key. And if that young family includes a mom on the go, chances are she’ll need a little me time too. So since you’re going to have a bathtub anyway, figure out which style works for you.

Let’s take a closer look at the benefits of each style to gain some insight about which is the best fit for your bathroom.

Freestanding Tubs

Freestanding tubs instantly demand attention, grabbing your eye as soon as you enter the bathroom—they are the focal point of the space. They come in a variety of styles, from vintage clawfoot to more modern shapes done in pure white porcelain.

If you’re considering one, you’ll need to focus first on placement.  Do you love to gaze out the window while you’re soaking? As long as plumbing is adjacent, freestanding tubs offer the opportunity to use your space more creatively, while built-ins usually require a contractor and two or more walls for their installation.

On the con side, freestanding tubs are typically larger than standard tubs which could be a problem if you’re working with limited space in your bathroom. Also, the variety of materials used for freestanding tubs can make them much heavier than built-ins which could require extra reinforcement in the floor. Think concrete or marble tubs. Freestanding tubs can also be more expensive due to the upscale materials and design elements used.

If your bathroom space is limited, and you need a shower for those busy work mornings, you would need to mount a shower rod and curtain to your tub. In addition to taking away from the look and aesthetic, it is not very practical as water is more apt to get on the floor due to the curtain surrounding the entire tub. One common option, if space and budget will allow, is to have a freestanding tub with a separate glassed-in shower stall.

Built-In Tubs

The built-in tub continues to be popular due to its practicality and efficiency. While it’s gotten a bad rap for appearing dated, with the right design and materials, a built-in tub can be both stylish and design forward.

Generally speaking, built-in tubs will be less expensive than most freestanding options. However, if your built-in has a surround, the design and materials used (as well as the fixtures) can definitely make it as, if not more, expensive than a freestanding tub.
Built-ins are always going to more economical with the available space in your bathroom. They sit flush with a wall and are usually in a corner, whereas a freestanding tub requires space around it. Also, because built-in tubs are mounted flush with walls, they will offer many more options in terms of storage. For example, shelves can be mounted on the walls beside built-in tubs for bath and shower products. Furthermore, if you have a sizable surround, you’ll be able to use the edge of the tub itself for storage.

Most homes already have plumbing for built-in tubs that are typically out of sight. While freestanding tubs have more options of where they can be placed in the bathroom, it can become complex (and expensive) if new piping is necessary.

For many, there is just something about a freestanding tub that makes it a design statement that built-ins just can’t match. A built-in tub can blend into the existing bathroom, while a freestanding tub will stand on its own design statement. There are also not as many options for built-in tubs. A built-in tub will often rely on the design and materials of its surround for a style statement.

Ultimately the choice between a freestanding and built-in tub comes down to a balance of personal taste and style, combined with the real space and functionality. This makes it difficult to choose based only upon what will add the most value to your home. Just be sure your bathroom works for you so you will enjoy it every day!

Adding Gas Logs to your Fireplace

Wouldn’t it be nice if you could enjoy your wood burning fireplace or masonry fireplace all year long and without the hassle created by wood?
Gas logs/media create a beautiful fire that will liven up a party or enhance a relaxing, quiet atmosphere. They are convenient, easy to operate and require minimal maintenance. Here are some things to consider when thinking about adding Gas logs to your home.

Gas logs provide radiant heat around your hearth without having to worry about hauling wood or cleaning ashes. RealFyre even offers Radiant Fyre Systems like the Charred Evergreen Oak that will give you the additional heat by using metal rods to amplify the heat produced.

Sooting will occur naturally with use. It is caused by the flames coming in contact with the logs before it completes combustion and adds character and realism to your logs. Never wash you logs. You can carefully remove them, take them outside, and use a soft brush or vacuum to remove any dust or other loose debris.

You cannot burn real wood with your gas log system. If you decide to go back to burning wood you will need to have your log set completely uninstalled and removed as well as have your gas line capped and add a grate rated for burning wood.

Most importantly, have fun when picking a system. Gas Systems come in Modern and Traditional styles and can compliment any decor. You can get crushed glasscharred logsgemstonesBirch logsspheres, and more.

fireplace
Fyre Spheres from RealFyre

Contact our Atlanta or Destin Showroom for more information and to see examples in person.
BSI Buckhead Showroom
761 Miami Circle, Suite D
Atlanta GA 30324
Phone: 404-233-6131

BSI Destin Showroom
10859 Emerald Coast Parkway West Suite 203
Destin, FL 32550
Phone: 850-650-9092

Top Trends from KBIS 2018

Last week was an exciting time in the kitchen and bath industry. More than 600 brands and companies filled the halls of the Orange County Convention Center in the great sunshine state to show off the latest kitchen and bath trends and innovations for the industry!

Even if you weren’t able in attendance you might have seen some of the magic unveil through your social media feeds. If you missed out, here is our roundup of need-to-know trends for the industry in 2018!

  1. Finishes

Black matte, brushed gold and brass fixture finishes continue to be one of the most popular trends this year. We love the variety it brings to a room and the many styles it is showcased in.

Matte black finishes

Matte Black trend

Brass Trend

Brass Trend

  1. Florals & Pops of Color

Another trend that was prominent at KBIS was Florals! We’re looking forward to spring and the incorporation of flowers into many aspects of design. Along the same line, bright hues for a pop of color were also popular at the show! This can be done with backsplash, flooring, walls, and cabinetry! This trend really brings out personality and a fun energy that you are sure to love in your home!

Floral Trend

Foral Trend

Floral Trend

Pop of Color Trend

  1. Smart Appliances

It’s 2018 and we are another step closer to the future of smart homes! This year the appliances category was all about incorporating innovative smart features. We saw interconnectivity between appliances in an effort to make home life easier and more efficient.

Smart Appliances Trend

Smart Appliance Trend

Smart Appliances Trend

Smart Appliances

Smart Appliances Trend

  1. Unique Back Splash/Feature Walls

Some of the most jaw-dropping designs at KBIS 2018 featured amazing backsplashes and feature walls. From backlit onyx to antiqued mirrored glass, this trend will certainly make a statement in your home.

Feature Wall Trend

Feature Wall Trend

Feature Wall Trend

 

  1. Angles Textures & Patterns

Last but not least, we saw a variety of textures, patterns and play on angles throughout the design work. This trend brings the wow factor and is sure to suit any architecture lover.

Angles TrendPatterns Trend

Angles Trend

Texture Trend

There you have it, you are now all in the know! Now, it’s time to share and incorporate these beautiful design ideas!

Did you see something you loved at the show? We’d love to hear your take on 2018’s top kitchen & bath design trends!

Honed VS Polished Marble

 

When choosing natural stone for countertops there is a lot of choices to make. From what type of stone to color, to edges and finishes. Something that seems simple, such as the finish, can drastically change the appearance of the stone and overall look of your space. We have had a lot of questions in regard to what finish to choose when adding marble to your home, so here is the low-down on polished vs honed marble.

 

The Basics:

The definition of Honed is when the stone slab has been grounded to a smooth, flat consistent surface. This finish is created by stopping short of the last stage of polishing, leaving the stone with a non-shiny, matte look and velvet-like touch. The definition of polished is, well you guessed it, the opposite! A polished surface creates a beautiful glossy shine from the natural reflection of the stone’s crystals. Now let’s get down to the nitty-gritty.

 

Honed Characteristics:

Since honed marble is a matte finish it is more resistant to scratches. Even if honed marble does get scratched, it is less noticeable because the scratch won’t be as easy to see when light reflects off it, like with a polished surface. On the other hand, honed marble is more susceptible to stains, so it important to clean them up spills immediately. Since it is matte, when the surface gets wet, it is less slippery than polished making it a great choice for flooring.

Honed Marble Countertops

Polished Characteristics:

Polished marble is coated which acts as a protectant, making it less susceptible to stains. Consequently, the highly reflective surface means more visible scratches. Since polished marble is very smooth, this makes it a dangerous option for flooring in high traffic areas because or bathrooms because it can be very slippery when wet. It is, however, a classic choice for kitchen and bathroom countertops.

 Polished Marble Countertops

Honed Recap:

Looks: Matte

Feel: Velvet/Satin

Durability: Scratch resistant, but easily stained.

Maintenance: Regular wipe down with water and mild detergent, clean up spills immediately, re-sealing suggested over time.

Suggested Application: Countertops and high traffic areas, such as floors for the bathroom, foyer, or living room.

 

Polished Recap:

Look: Glossy & Shiny

Feel: Smooth

Durability: Scratch and etch easily, but more stain resistant.

Maintenance: Regular wipe down with water and mild detergent, clean spills immediately.

Suggested Application: Kitchen and bathroom countertops, fireplace surrounds, and walls.

 

Whether you chose honed or polished as the finish for your marble, it will make a luxurious addition to your home.

Top 10 Kitchen & Bath Trends For 2018

With 2017 coming to a fast close, we’re here to help you ring in the new year with our top 10 kitchen and bath trends for 2018! You didn’t think we’d let you be out of style, did you?

1. Quartz:

Granite has been a been a top seller for quite some time but quartz just took a hold of first place. As much as we love natural stone, quartz is a surface we love just as much! Quartz countertops are popular because not only do they come in an array of colors and styles that can resemble natural stone, but they’re also well-loved because of their durability and carefree maintenance. Sounds like a winner in our book!

Cambria Quartz Countertops

2. Brass & Gold Toned Hardware:

Brass has been making its way into the trends for quite some time and the world has finally fallen head over heels for it! You can’t go far without seeing its marks anywhere and we are not complaining. This trendy metal finish can be used in quite a lot of features. From faucets to lighting, to rivets and even appliances this trend is sure to bring the look of luxury into your space!

Brass Hardware Bathroom

3. Stone Sinks:

Ok, we aren’t going back to the primal times but, if they had these beauties of a stone sink, we might consider it. These hand-carved babies are crazy high on the trend list and that’s why we cannot go into 2018 without them! They come in a variety of styles so you don’t have to sacrifice not having a deep sink! A stone apron sink will easily be your new favorite feature in your kitchen.

Stone Apron Sink

4. Bold Lighting:

Lights have come a long way and nowadays the bolder the better! There are MANY different choices you can go for. From pendant lights, to track lights, chandeliers to sconces, the choices are rather endless. If your space features a lot of lines, soften things up with orb lights. Just because your space is traditional doesn’t mean you have to go with boring light choices. It’s time to mix things up this 2018 and add something bright and bold to your space.

Bold Kitchen Lighting

5. Pop of Color:

Pantone recently released that violet is the color of the year for 2018, but that shouldn’t dismiss navy and sage being in the mix. While white and neutral kitchens have been a favorite for quite some time, people are getting bored and adding color where desired.

Pop of Color

6. Two-Toned Cabinets:

This trend caught us by surprise but we are loving it! Who would have thought to purposefully use two different finishes on cabinetry? This look is on the rise and if you are remodeling, be the trendsetter in your neighborhood and go two-toned! It’s the perfect opportunity to play into that Pop of Color!

Two Toned Cabinets

7. Bleached Wood Cabinets:

If going two-toned is too bold for you, try the bleached cabinet trend. You still get the look of a bright, clean kitchen without having to go full on white. The appeal is neutral color, dimension, and texture.

Bleached Cabinets

8. Bold Tile:

Goodbye, boring subway tile. Hello, texture and vibrant patterns and colors! When you are designing a room, start from the floor and go up. Choosing a bold tile floor or backsplash adds great contrast and breaks things up in a neutral space.

Bold Tile

9. Black Stainless Appliances:

Stainless steel is very popular finish in the appliance world but LG, Whirlpool & Frigidaire have released a new contender — black stainless steel!! These gorgeously finished appliances will definitely add a bold touch of luxury to your home!

Black Stainless Steel Appliances

10. Smart Appliances:

A lot of automation has entered into our homes, from the rise of Google Home, Alexa, and Nest, we knew it wouldn’t be long until we saw these features in our kitchen appliances! And that’s why 2018 will be the start of the Smart Home Era. From Wi-Fi connected dishwashers and ovens that start from the power of your voice or app, the future is defiantly here!

Smart Appliances

So, let’s say goodbye to the old style of 2017 and hello to the new, bright, bold future of 2018!

Quick Guide to Hosting Thanksgiving on Granite Countertops

Are you hosting Thanksgiving this year?  Do you have granite or marble countertops in your kitchen? Well look no further, we have a quick holiday care guide for you!

 

Thanksgiving is a few days away and it’s time to get your countertops ready. Natural stone countertops are a beautiful feature of your home so it is important that we keep those countertops in tip-top shape, especially during the holiday season.

 

Seal/Re-seal

It is important to seal your countertops once a year, so why not do it a week a before the holiday season for extra protection for your kitchen countertops!

 

Cutting Boards

A big part of hosting Thanksgiving is all the meal prep and the carving of the bird. The use of cutting boards is crucial! Natural stone is tough, but not so tough when you put a knife against it. Stock up on cutting boards before the main event and use them for preparing and serving your feast!

 

Heat Protectant

Everything needs heat protectant! From your skin in the summer sun to your hair from hot tools, it is important to heat protect your countertops too! Use hot pads and trivets to protect your countertops from the shock of hot pots, pans, and dishes.

 

Coasters

As well as protecting from the heat you should protect from the cold and condensation of your glassware. The use of coasters will do this and add an elegant touch to your table setting.

 

Clean Up

To avoid a huge mess at the end of your gathering, clean up spills as you go! If you have marble countertops, cleaning up acidic spills like wine and lemon juice are very important to do ASAP to avoid staining and etching. The greatest and safest everyday method of cleaning your countertops is to use a microfiber towel and warm water. To tackle heavier messes, the use of nonabrasive countertop products recommended by your installer are best.

 

Happy Thanksgiving to you, your family, and those beautiful countertops!

 

Georgia-Based Colonial Lighting Celebrates 50 Years in Business

Atlanta, GA

This year, Colonial Lighting marked its 50th anniversary. Since its beginnings, Colonial has based its operations around providing quality products and best-in-class customer service. The company believes this commitment has been the driving factor behind reaching this significant milestone.

 

“There are plenty of places to purchase lighting, but Colonial differentiates itself by making it more about the customer experience,” said Frank Therrien, General Manager for Colonial Lighting. “While we have a showroom that displays an impressive amount of product, we want to engage our customers and learn about their lighting needs and style so we can pinpoint the right solutions for their project.”

 

Offering customers an unmatched line of products and specialty expertise, Colonial carries over 100,000 lighting items from over 60 top manufacturers. The Sugar Hill showroom features more than 1,000 fixtures in styles ranging from ultra-modern to old-world traditional and everything in between.

 

Established in 1967, Colonial Lighting has grown from small business to becoming part of the Builder Specialties portfolio in 2010. Builder Specialties later merged with Construction Resources in late 2015, but the Colonial name remained with its decades of heritage and brand equity among builders, designers, and homeowners in Georgia.

 

As part of the Construction Resources family of businesses, Colonial Lighting is supported by a network of showroom and distribution locations. Construction Resources aims to provide a one-stop shop for a wide array of home products, accompanied by design knowledge and an unsurpassed level of service. More than just a supplier of products, Colonial Lighting has designers on staff with extensive knowledge to help bring plans to life.

 

In celebration of their 50th year, Colonial Lighting is planning a Customer Appreciation event in January 2018. Details will be announced soon.

 

“If you haven’t visited Colonial Lighting and you have any interest in updating even one light fixture in your home, you owe it to yourself to visit this showroom,” Therrien encouraged. “Come and see what our 50-year reputation is all about!”

 

About Colonial Lighting

Colonial Lighting has been a family-owned company since its opening in 1967. The company provides quality lighting products to builders, designers, remodelers, and other customers in the Atlanta area. Colonial Lighting aims to exceed expectations in quality, selection, value, and service.  Within the showroom is a rare blend of old-fashioned customer care and the latest in traditional, transitional, and modern lighting design.

 

About Construction Resources, LLC

Construction Resources, LLC founded in 1970, provides residential and commercial builders/remodelers, as well as homeowners with a one-stop shop for their kitchen, bath and home design needs. Construction Resources offers products from multiple divisions, including CR Home Design Center, Builder Specialties, Sewell Appliance, Colonial Lighting, Atlanta Marble Mfg, Atlanta Kitchen, Atlanta Glass & Mirror, Builders Floor Covering and Tile, Florida Bath and Surfaces, National Stoneworks, ARD and CR Home of Alabama. As a provider of multiple categories of products, Construction Resources allows customers to simplify their ordering, scheduling and vendor process by dealing with just one salesperson and company. The company has full-service design centers and showroom locations in Decatur, Buckhead, Sandy Springs and Sugar Hill, GA; Santa Rosa Beach, Destin and Panama City, FL; and Birmingham, AL. For more information visit www.CRHomeUSA.com.

 

The Most Popular Home Design Styles of 2017

With 2017 coming to a close we thought it would be interesting to take a look back at the top design trends in the home space over the past year. We turned to Havenly, the online interior design and decorating service, that just released its first-ever yearly ranking of top interior design styles base upon over 25,000 surveys of Havenly clients across the U.S.

Coming in at number one is Farmhouse. Farmhouse is a complete blend of style and comfort. It’s an approachable and attainable aesthetic, shared Shelby Girard, Havenly’s head of design. Our customers want their home to feel cozy and lived-in while still being well-designed.

Rustic Living Room Design

The number two top design style for 2017 is preppy contemporary. The preppy look is a more modern take on classic style and characterized by a genteel mix of patterns that lends itself to the aesthetic. Plaid is the iconic preppy print, but you also can’t go wrong with stripes, houndstooth, gingham checks or herringbone.

Dining Room Design

The boho vibe definitely caught on in 2017, with bohemian glam and bohemian contemporary taking third and fourth place, respectively. Havenly predicts these styles could rise to the top of the list over 2018 based upon the increase in customer searches for wall tapestries and earthy tones (beyond beige) on their site. “Marigold, olive green, and rusty oranges seem to be catching eyes more and more,” says Girard. “Pairing those colors with modern decor make the design more approachable, or, when seeking the ultimate boho vibe, this palette adds more color than you’d think.”

Living Room Design

Taking fifth place in the Havenly rankings is traditional style. While traditional design will most likely always have a place in the top rankings, we feel home design will go in a more modern direction in 2018.

CONTACT INFO

Corporate Office
196 Rio Circle
Decatur, GA 30030

(404) 378-3132

info@crhomeusa.com

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