How to upgrade looks, utility

If you want to take your cabinets to the next level, consider these popular options:

• Mixing up colors or finishes: Options include using different materials for upper and lower cabinets or for certain sections of cabinets. Susan Johnson says many of her clients at Kitchen Tune-Up in Maumelle are choosing dark wood stains for kitchen islands to make them look like pieces of furniture.

• New neutrals: Gray has become a popular choice for people who find white too sterile. Also, shades of blue and green with strong gray undertones are popular.

• Drawers instead of shelves: Improved glider technology has resulted in larger drawers that can hold your heaviest items and allow easier access. High-end, full-extension slides allow access to the entire drawer and can hold up to 100 pounds.

• Soft-close hinges and slides: No more banging doors or not-quite-closed drawers.

• Glass-front doors or open cabinets: This look can lighten up a wall of cabinets and bring beautiful dishes and accessories out of hiding.

• Embellishments: Adding feet to an island and moldings at the top of cabinets or architectural features such as under-counter corbels (decorative brackets) can add a custom feel to the kitchen.

Sources: BHG.com, HGTV.com and Houzz.com

HomeStyle on 05/23/2015

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