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	<title>DirectBuy Kitchen Remodeling Blog &#187; Kitchen Countertops</title>
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		<title>Kitchen Remodeling Planning for Style and Functionality</title>
		<link>http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/blog/uncategorized/kitchen-remodeling-planning/</link>
		<comments>http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/blog/uncategorized/kitchen-remodeling-planning/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 09 Mar 2010 15:44:12 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Karen, Kitchen Remodeling Pro</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Appliances]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Cabinets]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[DirectBuy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Kitchen Cabinets]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Kitchen Countertops]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Kitchen Flooring]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Kitchen Remodeling]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/blog/?p=1499</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Tackling a major kitchen remodeling  project is something most homeowners do only once in their homes.  While you may be focusing on new kitchen cabinets , appliances, flooring, and more, it is equally as important to focus on the functionality of your newly designed kitchen.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img class="alignleft size-full wp-image-1500" style="margin-left: 8px; margin-right: 8px;" title="kitchen designs" src="http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/hg-2a.jpg" alt="kitchen designs" width="306" height="202" />Tackling a major <a title="kitchen remodeling" href="http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/" target="_blank">kitchen remodeling</a> project is something most homeowners do only once in their homes.  While you may be focusing on new <a title="kitchen cabinets" href="http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/cabinets.aspx" target="_blank">kitchen cabinets</a> , appliances, flooring, and more, it is equally as important to focus on the functionality of your newly designed kitchen.</p>
<h3>Function Comes Before Beauty</h3>
<p>Consider how you currently use your kitchen.  Does the family spend a lot of time there?  How much do you cook?  Do guests seem to always end up in the kitchen?  It is vitally important to decide how your kitchen will function before you even begin selecting materials and appliances. Are appliances in their optimum location?</p>
<h3>Flooring and Layout are Important</h3>
<p>What type of <a title="flooring " href="http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/flooring.aspx" target="_blank">flooring </a> is best considering the amount of foot traffic?  It’s a good idea to look at kitchen layout designs and work triangles to decide what is best for you and your family.   Get the best of both worlds in your new kitchen.  Make sure it is as functional as it is beautiful.</p>
<p>For your <a title="kitchen remodeling" href="http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/" target="_blank">kitchen remodeling</a> needs, discover the fantastic selection and amazing savings <a title="DirectBuy" href="http://www.directhomediscount.com/" target="_blank">DirectBuy</a> has to offer. You can save up to 50% off retail on <a title="kitchen appliances" href="http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/appliances.aspx" target="_blank">kitchen appliances</a> and most everything else you need to create your dream kitchen .</p>
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		<title>Beautiful Kitchen Countertops on a Budget</title>
		<link>http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/blog/kitchen-remodeling-on-a-budget/kitchen-countertops-on-a-budget/</link>
		<comments>http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/blog/kitchen-remodeling-on-a-budget/kitchen-countertops-on-a-budget/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 23 Nov 2009 20:58:40 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Karen, Kitchen Remodeling Pro</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Kitchen Remodeling On A Budget]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Counter Tops on a Budget]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[DirectBuy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Kitchen Countertops]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Kitchen Remodeling]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Wholesale Counter Tops]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/blog/?p=1151</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[There are so many beautiful and exotic materials which make stunning countertop applications in the kitchen.
It is important to remember the more unusual or exotic the material, the more expensive it becomes.  This is true regardless of the species.
The more unique the granite, marble, onyx, limestone, etc., the more expensive it becomes.
Replacing Your Counter tops
Replacing [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img class="alignleft size-full wp-image-1155" style="margin-left: 8px; margin-right: 8px;" title="kitchen countertops" src="http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/countertop-top-33.jpg" alt="kitchen countertops" width="398" height="195" />There are so many beautiful and exotic materials which make stunning countertop applications in the kitchen.</p>
<p>It is important to remember the more unusual or exotic the material, the more expensive it becomes.  This is true regardless of the species.</p>
<p>The more unique the granite, marble, onyx, limestone, etc., the more expensive it becomes.</p>
<h3>Replacing Your Counter tops</h3>
<p>Replacing existing <a title="kitchen countertops" href="http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/counters.aspx" target="_blank">kitchen countertops</a> is normally high on the list for <a title="kitchen remodeling" href="http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/" target="_blank">kitchen remodeling</a> projects.  You can still use some of these exotic materials in your plans; you just need to budget for the expense ahead of time.</p>
<p>Choosing the right color and material for your countertop is every bit as important as what you choose for your kitchen cabinetry or flooring.  One way to get a more exotic or rare material for your countertop is to save costs on other items such as cabinetry, flooring, appliances, etc.  You will need to decide which is more important to you if you are following a strict budget.</p>
<h3>Choose Materials that Fit Your Budget</h3>
<p>Another great idea is to choose a less expensive material for your main countertop and purchase the more expensive material for your <a title="kitchen island" href="http://www.directkitchencabinets.com/Kitchen.aspx" target="_blank">kitchen island</a> top, wet bar counter, or kitchen pass through.  This will allow you to have the material in your kitchen remodeling project, just on a smaller scale.  You will probably remodel your kitchen just once in any home.  If you really want an expensive exotic countertop in your kitchen, consider any of these ideas to make your dream kitchen a striking reality.</p>
<p>Whatever your choice for new counter tops may be, you’ll find a great selection at <a title="DirectBuy" href="http://www.directhomediscount.com/" target="_blank">DirectBuy</a>. You can save up to 50% on <a title="counter tops" href="../../counters.aspx" target="_blank">counter tops</a> and most everything else you need for <a title="kitchen remodeling" href="../../" target="_blank">kitchen remodeling</a>.</p>
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		<title>The Naturally Beautiful Kitchen</title>
		<link>http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/blog/kitchen-remodeling/naturally-beautiful-kitchen/</link>
		<comments>http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/blog/kitchen-remodeling/naturally-beautiful-kitchen/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 12 Nov 2009 21:03:53 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Karen, Kitchen Remodeling Pro</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Kitchen Remodeling]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[DirectBuy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Flooring]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Granite]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Kitchen Countertops]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Kitchen Islands]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Marble]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Natural Materials]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Quartzite]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Slate]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Soapstone]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Travertine]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/blog/?p=1099</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[A strong design trend in kitchen remodeling is the use of natural materials.  Natural materials display elegance unlike few other materials used in home design.  The use of granite, marble, slate, soapstone and quartzite will give your kitchen a look of beauty which will last for years.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img class="alignleft size-full wp-image-1101" style="margin-left: 8px; margin-right: 8px;" title="black granite counter" src="http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/black-granite-counter.jpg" alt="black granite counter" width="249" height="373" />A strong design trend in kitchen remodeling is the use of natural materials.  Natural materials display elegance unlike few other materials used in home design.  The use of granite, marble, slate, soapstone and quartzite will give your kitchen a look of beauty which will last for years.</p>
<p>Natural materials are resistant to scratches, heat, and everyday use and wear.  Used in the correct applications, these types of materials will not only provide a beautiful display in your kitchen but withstand a lot of wear and tear which comes in the kitchen.</p>
<ul>
<li>Choose from thousands of colors of granite for your new kitchen countertop.</li>
<li>A beautiful marble or soapstone can be the perfect choice for the kitchen island.</li>
<li>Replace old flooring with travertine or slate in unique patterns.</li>
</ul>
<p>Let natural beauty be the standard in your new kitchen remodeling project.  Any natural stone installation will bring you years of unparalleled beauty and elegance.</p>
<p>For all your <a title="kitchen remodeling" href="http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/" target="_blank">kitchen remodeling</a> needs, see what <a title="DirectBuy" href="http://www.directhomediscount.com/" target="_blank">DirectBuy</a> has to offer! You’ll find top quality and great savings of up to 50% off brand name products for your home.</p>
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		<title>Multiple Kitchen Work Stations</title>
		<link>http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/blog/kitchen-remodeling/multiple-kitchen-work-stations/</link>
		<comments>http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/blog/kitchen-remodeling/multiple-kitchen-work-stations/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 26 Feb 2009 19:25:00 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Karen, Kitchen Remodeling Pro</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Kitchen Remodeling]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[DirectBuy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Kitchen Countertops]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Wholesale Kitchen Remodeling]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/blog/?p=420</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Kitchen remodeling often entails making your kitchen larger.  This is the perfect opportunity to plan your kitchen design around how you actually use your kitchen in terms of cooking, gathering, dining, or other things you tend to do in your kitchen.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>The so-called “kitchen triangle” theory which has prevailed in kitchen design over the years is fast being replaced by multiple work stations.  When remodeling your kitchen, don’t think so much about the refrigerator-stove-sink triangle, think more in terms of different work stations or zones needed to better utilize your kitchen.</p>
<p><a title="Kitchen remodeling" href="http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/">Kitchen remodeling</a> often entails making your kitchen larger.  This is the perfect opportunity to plan your kitchen design around how you actually use your kitchen in terms of cooking, gathering, dining, or other things you tend to do in your kitchen.</p>
<p>Create different areas for food preparation/cooking/cleaning, another area for dining or working on projects, and yet another area for a built in desk for your computer.  Since the kitchen has become the hub for gathering, make sure you take the opportunity to best utilize this space during the design phase of your kitchen remodel.</p>
<p>Find everything you need for your kitchen remodeling project at <a title="DirectBuy" href="http://www.directhomediscount.com/" target="_blank">DirectBuy</a>. You’ll find brand-name products at great savings of up to 50% off retail prices.</p>
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		<title>Remodeling Your Kitchen? Here’s What You Should Know, Part III</title>
		<link>http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/blog/kitchen-remodeling/kitchen-remodeling-ideas/</link>
		<comments>http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/blog/kitchen-remodeling/kitchen-remodeling-ideas/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 17 Nov 2008 21:40:04 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Karen, Kitchen Remodeling Pro</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Kitchen Remodeling]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[DirectBuy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Kitchen Cabinets]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Kitchen Countertops]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Kitchen Flooring]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Kitchen Sinks]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Wholesale Kitchen Remodeling]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/blog/?p=156</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Kitchen remodeling includes many areas for possible improvement - cabinets, countertops, sinks, flooring and appliances among the most popular areas. With today's choices in top-quality products, you can create the look you want for less at DirectBuy.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong>Choosing Cabinets</strong><br />
Before choosing kitchen cabinets, keep storage space, durability and inner storage systems in mind. Ensure they have enough shelves and well partitioned drawers to store cutlery and crockery in a convenient manner.</p>
<p>You can select a custom kitchen cabinets or choose from stock models. Kitchen cabinets come in various interior shelving and storage configurations. Select the set that best suits your needs and kitchen work space.</p>
<p><strong>Choosing Countertops</strong><br />
Granite and marble are the most popular, attractive and durable countertops today. However, marble fades over time and therefore must be maintained regularly to retain its original appearance. Moreover, if you are doing the remodeling, you may find marble and granite difficult to handle. Tiles and laminates are easy, do-it-yourself products that you may consider.</p>
<p><strong>Choosing Flooring</strong><br />
Depending on your style and budget you may consider using Vinyl which is available in a vast array of designs, textures and prices to suit your budget.<br />
Wood flooring is also an option that is gaining in popularity, but such flooring usually requires regular maintenance.</p>
<p>If your budget permits, try installing ceramic tiles to add elegance and a trendy look to your kitchen. However, to avoid injury or accident, use slip-proof flooring tiles or materials.</p>
<p><strong>Choosing Kitchen Sinks</strong><br />
Popular models that you may consider are stainless steel, stone, plastic or cast iron. However, a stainless-steel sink is ideal, as it is more durable and easier to clean.</p>
<p>Depending on your needs, you may choose from such models as double or single-bowl, and shallow or deep-bowl. Sink faucets are also available in materials such as chrome, stainless steel or polished brass with options such as single-levered, double-handled twin faucets, as well as pull-out sprayers.</p>
<p><a title="DirectBuy " href="http://www.directhomediscount.com/" target="_blank">DirectBuy </a>has the <a title="kitchen sinks" href="http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/sinks.aspx" target="_blank">kitchen sinks</a>,<a title=" countertops" href="http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/counters.aspx" target="_blank"> countertops</a>, <a title="flooring" href="http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/flooring.aspx" target="_blank">flooring</a>, <a title="cabinets" href="http://www.directkitchencabinets.com/" target="_blank">cabinets</a> and more to help you create a beautiful, coordinated kitchen design you will love &#8211; all at manufacturer-direct prices.</p>
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