The first question you want to ask yourself, is do you really want to do that?

Honed counters are unusally porous, and can have all kinds of issues.

Posted by: STEPHENWANGEL at October 12, 2009 4:52 PM in response to Need Countertop Honed

Based on the pictures you showed, the only place to put the dishwasher is next to the range. There should be at least 15" between the corner sink and the DW in order to access the DW while standing at the sink. The only caviat... The LH side of the dishwasher needs a narrow, 24" deep panel to support that part of the counter, as the dishwasher cannot. It can also create warranty issues if you don't.

www.StephenWangel.com

Posted by: STEPHENWANGEL at October 12, 2009 4:47 PM in response to Stove next to Dishwasher?

If you are looking at a pro range, there is a good possibility that the kitchen will get very hot, with the burners on high, and no range hood venting. If you're not planning on using all that horsepower, consider a range with only a couple of powerful burners. Shop features over brands. I also like a range that has sealed burners (keeps things tidy) and low 'simmer burners' so you can simmer without burning, or worse yet, having that flickering little flame blow out. GE profile is a good way to go, as well as Kitchenaid.

Steve

www.StephenWangel.com

Posted by: STEPHENWANGEL at October 12, 2009 4:41 PM in response to Range Suggestions (Part 2)

You will hear about many 'must haves' in people's kitchens. Of course, this is a personal decision, and you must do what works for you. A qualified kitchen designer will take the time to talk to you, discover your lifestyle, and talk about possibilities. Most kitchen designers do not charge for this service. I am not a big fan of 'gadgets' unless they're usable.

I have done many kitchens in the slope, and can talk about what's possible in your space.

Check out my website: www.StephenWangel.com

Posted by: STEPHENWANGEL at October 12, 2009 4:36 PM in response to ISO Your Kitchen Reno Favorites!

ALL kitchen counter slabs are mined and finished at 3 centimeters, which is about 1 1/4" thick. With the recession, we are seeing more and more of 2 cm stone, which comes mainly from the orient. The thinner stone (33% thinner) can't take the punishment that the 3 cm stone can. Don't do it just to save a buck!

Posted by: STEPHENWANGEL at October 12, 2009 4:28 PM in response to Width for Counter Top

Frankly, I wouldn't poo-poo the thought of using a kitechen designer. Those of us who are worth our salt are experts at cramming 10 pounds of feathers in a 5 pound bag. We know about building codes, and how to make the most function of a limited space. Most designers don't charge for their services. In my own business, I represent 5 different manufacturers, most of whom are very competitive. For example, I have a manufacturer who produces eco-friendly all-wood cabinetry for a small premium over IKEA, and none of the VOC's or formaldyhide that you find in a conventional particle board cabinet. I have an office in Long Island, but have a presense in the slope, and do a lot of work there.

Check out my website: www.StephenWangel.com

Posted by: STEPHENWANGEL at October 12, 2009 4:23 PM in response to Kitchen Renovation Neophyte?

Installation labor on cabinetry is NEVER taxable. When a capital improvement is filed, sales tax is paid by the dealer to the cabinet manufacturer. So it's in there no matter what.

Posted by: STEPHENWANGEL at January 12, 2009 1:04 PM in response to Kitchen Cabinets

After numerous bad customer experiences, A & K dumped their kitchen designer, and now use a designer from Long Island. You'll find a huge improvement in the quality of the designs and customer service.

Posted by: STEPHENWANGEL at January 12, 2009 12:42 PM in response to Home Depot Countertop

Stephen, that was my original question, about a designer not charging--I know in my business fees are made up from a mark-up on equipment gotten at a professional discount, so the end user doesn't feel it, and wondered if it was the same. But how does one know if the price is competitive till you GO to the kitchen designer and use their services? What if you decide not to use them and their wares? Thanks....

Posted by: sogo at October 13, 2009 7:10 AM in response to Kitchen Renovation Neophyte?