Quality & Craftsmanship with Hardwood Flooring

Hardwood flooring is known for its beauty, durability and versatility. It’s a vital piece of your home’s overall design, and is a major component to quality, craftsmanship and artistic style to each space within your walls. Here are three ways hardwood floors lend themselves to adding a sense of quality and craftsmanship to your home.

3 Ways Hardwood Flooring Provides Quality & Craftsmanship

1. They give the style a foundation. Flooring provides the foundation for every home's style. When it comes to materials, there are a lot of options to choose from; hardwood floors are a popular choice because of their subtle beauty, rich depth, high quality and dependable durability. In addition to this, reclaimed flooring provides an additional sense of style - one with rich character and history. On the other hand, engineered floors provide many of the same benefits in a much more cost-effective way. Needless to say, there are a lot of options for you to choose between as the foundation of your home’s style.

2. They offer a wide variety of choices. There may be a few materials that come to mind when you think of 20th century flooring (such as vinyl or cork), but a major key to modern quality flooring is sustainability. Eco-friendly hardwood floors are available in nearly every species (look for the FSC-certified label), as are alternatives to traditional wood like bamboo.

One of the fantastic benefits to hardwood flooring is how versatile it is. By changing the width of the planks, color of the stain or species type, you can give the space a completely new look and feel. In addition to the types of hardwood floors available, the patterns you choose, such as parquet, can give your home an air of traditional luxury and craftsmanship that harkens back to the 18th century or late Victorian era.

3. They anchor the room. The floor can make or break the room. Before you move onto moldings and furniture, consider how you want the flooring to create the foundation for the overall design. Consider your family’s sense of style as well as which hardwood floors will provide the design you’re striving for as well as the durability your family needs.

Want to know more about how hardwood flooring can provide quality and craftsmanship for your home? Come visit our showroom and talk to our experts! Make sure you contact us for a free in-home estimate today, too.

The STILE House: Choosing Cost-Effective, Eco-Friendly and Durable Flooring

Just like anyone else shopping for flooring, the WVU-UTV team had a variety of needs that the flooring needed to meet for the Solar Decathlon Competition. The hard part? There were more than 10 people weighing in on the final decision! Oh, and the home is being built in WVU, torn down, shipped to California and then re-built. Talk about a unique situation!

With everything in mind, the Bestlaminate team took a trip to WVU for their opening reception and to consult with the team on choosing cost-effective, Eco-friendly and durable flooring for their solar home.

Team Leaders Speaking at the Opening Reception

Here are the goals the flooring needed to accomplish:

1. Durability: Durable enough to accommodate 30,000+ visitors that will tour the home and withstand being installed, un-installed and re-installed.
2. Functionality: For occupants after the competition.
3. Cost-effective: The homes are judged on appraisal values of the total home cost.
4. Eco-friendly: The competition focus is on renewable energy innovations.
5. DIY installation: The students will need to be able to install this floor themselves.
6. Aesthetically Pleasing: Completing the Italian and Appalachian design along with creating a comfortable living space.

1. Durability

We don’t normally deal with situations in which the customer will be installing with the intent to un-install and re-install the laminate flooring. While it can be done, this makes the flooring decision a little more strategic.

Knowing that thousands of people will be touring their home, along with the installation challenges, we knew they needed a thick, durable laminate with at least an AC3 rating. After discussing the project with the interior designers, we chose a range of samples that hit their targeted look, as well as durability needs. We brought samples from 8mm to 12mm and floors that only had AC3 ratings and above.

In the end, the team was set on a 12mm, but decided against the AC4 style and went with an AC3 rated floor. As a heavy residential rating, the AC3 should stand up to their needs. Keep reading to find out which floor they chose!

WVU-UTV Team discussing flooring samples

2. Functionality

Aside from the competition judging, the home needed to have functional flooring, as the home can be sold or donated after the competition. To improve overall functionality of the home, the team decided to go with a moisture-proof vinyl for the bathroom. Although laminate can be installed in a bathroom, the vinyl will provide future occupants with a low-maintenance bathroom floor that will be completely moisture resistant.

3. Cost-Effective

Laminate and vinyl floors are one of the most versatile and cost-effective flooring options on the market, not to mention the money saved on a DIY installation. All of the flooring samples we showed the team retail for $2.75/sq. ft. or below, making it an affordable option. For the competition, Bestlaminate donated the flooring.

4. Eco-Friendly

The team chose a Quick-Step laminate product that is LEED certified, USA made and has a manufacturing process dedicated to recycling, reusing and renewing. The U.S. produced Quick-Step boards are made of 74% preconsumer recycled wood fibers and chips from sustainable sources. Also, these floors are rigorously tested for the CARB-2 Compliance and have passed the North American Laminate Flooring Association (NALFA) Certification Seal testing. Read more about Quick-Step’s sustainability here.

5. DIY Installation

The student team is installing this floor themselves, as well as potentially installing, un-installing and re-installing in California. With that said, the team needed a flooring solution that was easy to install and had the ability to be un-installed fairly easily.

With the easy click together locking system, laminate is a perfect choice for their needs. The vinyl flooring for the bathroom features a glue-less locking system and also has the ability to be installed and further un-installed for rebuilding. We will be following their installation progress in an upcoming blog post!

6. Aesthetically Pleasing

Merging the team’s cultures by creating a home with both Roman and Appalachian design elements has been a key to the home development. The team was looking for a floor that was a light maple or oak to coordinate with the modern feel of the interior design. The laminate samples that were compared included Kronoswiss Prestige Maple, Quick-Step Dominion Sesame Maple, Quick-Step Reclaime Veranda Oak and Quick-Step Reclaime Malted Tawny Oak.

The team was instantly drawn to the Reclaime collection due to the real-wood look and 12 mm thickness. These boards were sturdy and have a rustic, yet modern natural appearance. The planks feature all-natural textures with grooves and knots along with varying hues that compliment the overall interior. The team was in a great debate over the Veranda and Malted Tawny, with Veranda being an AC4 and Malted Tawny being an AC3 rating.

Assessing the flooring samples

The great flooring debate!

And the winner is: Reclaime Malted Tawny! They chose Appalachian Luxury Vinyl Linen for the bathroom. We can’t wait to see what it looks like installed.

The Winner: Malted Tawny Oak!

Read more about the STILE House Project:

• Project Overview
• Exterior Elements
• Interior Elements

The post The STILE House: Choosing Cost-Effective, Eco-Friendly and Durable Flooring appeared first on Passion for Home - Bestlaminate Blog.

My Favorite Ikea Products Are...

We all have a few, don’t we?

There's no way to see everything Ikea has to offer. Whether you’re in the store, online, or flipping through their catalog, it’s too overwhelming.

However, there’s always been a few particular products that I love the most.

 

When we lived in Australia and Norway…

We purchased a lot of our furniture from Ikea, because it was so well priced and we couldn’t take much of our furniture with us.

In Norway, we lived just over the bridge from Ikea, on an island in the Oslo area, so we would go to Ikea for dinner sometimes. It was so expensive to eat out in Norway, and you could get Swedish meatballs and potatoes for a good price at Ikea, and the kids loved them.

 

Sure, many of their products don’t last very long. But...

Because the cost is so low, that doesn't bother me much — especially when it comes to the following products. (They're some of my faves. ;-)

 

My Favorite IKEA Products

We used this sofa in my daughter’s apartment in college, and she ended up taking it with her to her California apartment. She just buys a new slipcover when the old ones get too soiled, and it looks just like new. It’s held up well to a lot of abuse and people sleeping over. :-)

EKTORP - Sofa, Blekinge white

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I bought one of these chairs for an upstairs bedroom and ended up buying two more for an upcoming kitchen project photoshoot. I needed some good breakfast room chairs, the client had yet to make purchases there, and I wanted something just like this. It’s a little loungey, a little natural, comfy, and it can be used as a dining chair. They will go into my stash/accessories closet for future props. I’m a firm believer that you shouldn’t be spending money on photography if the space doesn’t look like you want it to; and I’m willing to invest in a few props and accessories to have on-hand for shoots.

BYHOLMA / MARIEBERG - Chair, gray, Laila natural

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This linen duvet cover and shams are really nice and cheap for the quality. They look more upgraded than a typical duvet because they are linen. I put a pair upstairs in my son’s old room, which is now a guest room.

LINBLOMMA - Duvet cover and pillowcase(s), white

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I like this chair because of its looks. (It’s a little uncomfortable and definitely needs some cushions.) I like that it’s black and has a high back. I used it on one of my shopping boards, and I love the statement it makes.

STORSELE - Chair high, black, rattan

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Now let’s talk lighting...

There are some decent fixtures at Ikea. You just have to make sure you understand that theirs are designed to be low-end and, as such, should be celebrated for that. Don’t get them thinking they’ll look expensive. However, some of these do pack some good design and can be considered good generic lighting choices. Take a look and see what I mean.

I used three of these in a nail salon. Feminine and overscaled, they create a dramatic reflection on the surrounding space. Unfortunately, they’re crazy to put together.

IKEA PS MASKROS - Pendant lamp

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I haven’t seen this one in person, but I love the design as a contemporary fixture, with the perforation adding pattern into the space. I’m always a fan of a little natural wood element, too.

TORNA - Pendant lamp

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I like this fixture and its partners. It’s a new one for Ikea. I think it would look great in a child’s bathroom, as sconces. It’s just kind of fun.

SÖDERSVIK - LED wall lamp

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I’m a fan of the basket lights, too.

NIPPRIG 2015 - Shade, black

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One last item that catches my eye when I see it out on the internet in real design projects is...

This outdoor chair. Designers love it for its simplicity and sculptural quality. Unfortunately though, I hear it’s not that comfy. Well you can’t have everything! ;-)

IKEA PS VÅGÖ - Armless chair, outdoor, white

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Modern Mix by Eddie Ross

One of my favorite people in the design world has written a marvelous book and I’m so delighted to share it with you today! I had the pleasure of meeting Eddie Ross six years ago at one of the top places to shop for second hand treasures, the Alameda Pointe Antiques Faire that takes place once month in the Bay Area. I’ve followed him ever since including his Instagram adventures and his projects as East Coast Editor for Better Homes and Gardens. I’ll see Eddie again in a few weeks at the BHG Stylemaker Event in NYC, I’m excited to attend the workshops and mingle with fellow blogger friends.

Eddie has recently written a fabulous book Modern Mix, in it he shares the knowledge he’s acquired from years of experience spent treasure hunting at flea markets and thrift stores. Eddie has the most amazing taste and the ability to see the potential of an object, making something old feel fresh again with a modern twist, a true master of reinvention!

I had the opportunity to preview the book before it releases tomorrow, his voice is the one of that trusted friend you want with you when you shop second hand.This book is truly an amazing resource, filled with not only inspiring images but also Eddie’s insight and knowledge.

You won’t find “all new” in any of Eddie’s spaces or vignettes, always present is something he’s collected which makes the space shine. His book is a mantra for all of those who share in the idea that you enrich your home by curating a collection of things with history that speak to you.

Eddie was kind enough to answer a few questions about collecting and his new book, I love his amazing taste and value his insight, I’m sure you will too!

Kate: Most of the items featured in your book are from years of shopping flea markets, thrift stores, and yard sales. Remind us why good taste can come from these affordable sources for second hand décor.

Eddie: Second hand sources are goldmines for scoring undiscovered treasures. As tastes change, things inevitably fall out of fashion, turning up in places for us to discover all over again. Mixing in new finds gives them fresh life. Good taste, I’ve learned, is by no means dependent on how much you can afford. If you educate your eyes and take the time to look, the world opens up.

 

You are the master of styling artful tablescapes for special occasions, always mixing old and new. What styling tips can you offer for those wanting the wow factor but lack the ability to amass an eclectic collection of vintage flatware or textiles?

Personally, I think you can make a weekday dinner feel every bit as “special” as a special occasion, and it doesn’t have to be expensive or time consuming to do. Start with the basics: the handful of items I describe in the book’s chapter on curating essentials then go from there. For instance, borrow colors from your china and ask your dry cleaner’s seamstress to sew a tablecloth in an overall pattern that works in your dining room. Change out flowers, napkins and candles from season to season to create a fresh look every time. It’s not about how much you have; it’s about how you use it.

Your book is informative on all types of decorative glass from Venetian to Depression era. Colored glass has always been a favorite collectible of mine, available in many forms from hand blown to machine made. Does it really matter where glass originated when it comes to great style?

You’re right about that. If you love something enough, the origins of glassware – or anything else – don’t matter. But at the same time, knowing the basics makes you a better, more educated shopper. Modern Mix is not a primer on buying precious antiques, then hitting up the Road Show to cash in. It’s about waking up your senses to what you love – the colors, patterns, materials and shapes that feel like you – then training your eye to find them affordably.

Your collection of serving pieces is a dream! Tell us where you store all of the treasures you’ve collected all these years.

In the book, you’ll see one of my all-time favorite storage solutions – a utility cart from Lowe’s that I turned into a butler’s pantry on wheels. That way, everything I love and use the most to entertain stays stylishly close at hand. I’m also a big fan of metro shelving and clear storage containers with labels to cut down on the crazy during any styling emergencies. But like everything else in life, nothing’s perfect. You’ll still find a few platters and plates under the bed. Just don’t tell Jaithan !

Modern Mix is a book “about waking up your senses to what you love,” I couldn’t have said it better! The text is broken down into eight chapters: Inspire, Discover, Acquire, Restore, Curate, Mix, Style and Entertain and in them you’ll be inspired by over 350 images of Eddie’s arrangements and playful vignettes that inspire you to live creatively and stylishly on a budget. This book is truly a delight and so informative, I highly recommend you add it this one to your collection.

Find more information about Eddie’s book on his website and preorder your copy of Modern Mix today, it releases tomorrow!

all images courtesy of Eddie Ross

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Mixing Old and New for the Perfect Vintage Look

I love going to visit my grandma. In her living room, she uses an old trunk as her coffee table. This isn’t just any old trunk though. This is the trunk her family used when moving to the United States through Ellis Island.

On top, it’s rather unsuspecting. She has your regular coffee table affair of coasters, magazines, and conversation starters.

But, get her to clear away the modern day decorations and inside you’ll find a rich history. There are pictures, pregnancy journals from when she had her kids over 65 years ago, and old handkerchiefs that were (thankfully) never used for anything more than decoration.

I’ve always admired her style, so much so that it got me thinking about how to mix my decor for a perfect vintage look in the living room of my new home.

Start With the Treasure Chest 

What type of treasures and old family heirlooms do you have?

Old jewelry, artwork, or maybe a few handkerchiefs of your own (they used to be quite popular) can easily be turned into stunning decor. Frame them. Set them on your mantles. Or hang them from the walls. It’s an effortless way to add some old style and personality to your living room. Take a look at these great DIY ideas for your family heirlooms.

An added bonus: These types of decor pieces are perfect conversation starters too!

Go Ahead and Mimic Your Favorite Vintage Styles 

My husband always loves looking at the globes in his grandpa house. There are so many! Some are big, some are faded, some are not accurate, but all are filled with personality.

His grandpa isn’t ready to give those globes up, but we wanted to replicate the same type of decor in our home. So, on our shelf is a globe bought from Home Goods. It’s sitting next to my favorite book of all time, The Velveteen Rabbit. This combination looks chic but it’s also filled with story.

You can do the same in your living room. Buy old pieces you love from decorating stores. Even if they’re not the exact pieces your family owned, they’re still able to trigger old memories. Mix modern furniture pieces, such as a couch, with vintage accents, like a thrifted armchair.

Eclectic Living Room by Portland Window Treatments Decorview with Emily Henderson

Match Your Floors 

Shabby chic floors are a hot trend right now in the decorating world and for good reason. These floors are designed to look a little weathered and worn. People love them in living rooms because the weathered look gives them a cozy, comfortable appeal.

Updating your floors can have a huge impact on your decor. Choose from a variety of colors to find the perfect one to match the style that best reminds you of a home you used to love visiting.

London Interior Designers & Decorators ZazuDesigns

Get more vintage inspiration:

• Vintage Inspired Designer: Emily Henderson
• Shabby Chic Decorating for Small Spaces
• Vintage Upcycled Laminate Serving Tray DIY

The post Mixing Old and New for the Perfect Vintage Look appeared first on Passion for Home - Bestlaminate Blog.

Finding Inspiration*

Whilst the next project on our to-do list is replacing our horrible bathroom, the other big project that’s high on our list of priorities is replacing our kitchen. It’s a complete mess. It’s badly laid out, there’s not enough storage and the cupboards are literally falling off the walls! When we first moved in to... 

Read More »

The post Finding Inspiration* appeared first on Little House On The Corner.

Should I Install Laminate Flooring Before or After I Install My Kitchen Cabinets?

Dear Bob and Betsy,
I would like to know if we can install laminate flooring before or after installing our new kitchen cabinets & counter -or- should we build kitchen first and then install laminate? We reside in FL where temperatures fluctuate less than other areas and the a/c is usually on all year. Would that solve the expansion/contraction concerns that leads to possible buckling. We realize that putting down the laminate after the kitchen is re-done probably is recommended, however then there is the problem of the dishwasher getting trapped in (for removal/repair), stove & refrigerator being different heights, with all 3 appliances affecting cabinet & counter height to make everything even. But then, if we put down the laminate first, how could we remove the planks if there is possible water leaks from refrigerator water line or dishwasher. We are so confused. The only solution would to put down porcelain tile first and then build the kitchen. However, we love the wood look & protection that laminate provides. Your thoughts on this ” dilemma” would be appreciated.
– Scot S.

Dear Scot,

You’re right! With so many pros and cons for both sides, this often feels like a dilemma during kitchen remodels. This is a big project and you want everything to turn out perfectly.

There are a few risks with installing your shelving and appliances after your laminate flooring. These include the expansion and contraction risk you referenced, and the length of the strips.

Expanding and Contrasting 

You mentioned that your house is fairly consistently acclimatized with your air conditioning running year round. Living in Ohio, we’re jealous of your warm weather, but we digress.

Even though your home is acclimatized, your appliances hinder the natural expansion and contraction process. With a heavy cabinetry on top of your floating laminate floor, it’s harder for the wood to move naturally.

Cutting the Strips 

The good thing about laminate flooring is that it’s easy to repair. If it’s damaged, you can replace a small section without having to replace all of your flooring.

When you place your laminate flooring strips underneath your cabinetry, you make the process more burdensome. Appliances can be moved but your shelving and counter top infrastructure cannot.

The Answer to Your Dilemma 

The best way to accommodate your floors, shelving and appliances is to work in this order:

1. Install your cabinetry and shelving space first.
2. Install your flooring.
3. Add your appliances.

It might make the measurements a little more difficult, but it’s worth the extra calculation effort. This way, if you need to remove any of the planks due to water damage as you mentioned, you won’t be held back by having your shelving unit installed on top of the flooring.

If you’re determined to install the flooring first, use a piece of plywood as a filler piece. Avoid installing the flooring in that area to account for the shelving unit. This is a more difficult way of doing it, but it’ll give you the best life out of your floors. Don’t forget to leave yourself a quarter inch gap from the wall to allow for the expansion and contraction.

More laminate installation help:

• What tools do I need for a laminate installation?
• How should I prepare for a laminate flooring installation?
• How to make laminate flooring joints more waterproof

The post Should I Install Laminate Flooring Before or After I Install My Kitchen Cabinets? appeared first on Passion for Home - Bestlaminate Blog.