10 Important Guidelines for Designing a New Kitchen

Here are 10 important guidelines for your kitchen design project.

1. For efficiency, the work triangle (the space between the sink, refrigerator, and stove) should measure 26’ or less with no single side longer than 9’, or less than 4’.

2. In kitchens smaller than 150 sq. ft., opt for at least 13’ of base cabinets, 12’ of wall cabinets, and 11’ of countertop. In kitchens which are larger, go with at least 16’ of base cabinets, 15 1/2’ of wall cabinets, and 16 1/2’ of countertop.

3. For convenience, plan work aisles to be at least 42” wide for one cook, and at least 48” wide in multi-cook kitchens.

4. Specify a minimum of 24” of counter space on one side of the sink and at least 18” on the other.

5. To create the most accessible landing for unloading groceries, allow at least 15” of counter space on the handle side of a standard refrigerator; on both sides if it’s a side-by-side model. Or include a landing area directly across from the refrigerator, but no more than 48” away.

6. For cleanup ease, install the dishwasher within 36” of one edge of the sink and allow for at least 21” of standing room next to it.

7. For microwaves and ovens, provide at least 15 “ of counter space nearby, at least 16” deep.

8. For optimum clearance, no entry, appliance, or cabinet doors should interfere with another.

9. For comfort and to help avoid repetitive-motion injury, plan for work counters of different heights; between 28 and 36” off the floor (easier for chopping and seated-use access), and between 36 and 46” for general tasks (higher counters accommodate taller cooks).

10. To install a cabinet unit above the cook top, make sure the clearance is at least 24” for a fireproof surface, 30” for an unprotected surface.

Designing a kitchen is as much a science as it is an art. Knowing the recommended measurements to use when planning the project can make all the difference in the final outcome. Read more...

3 4 bed mattress

I was quite confused the other day when a young teenage customer stepped into my mattress store and asked for a 3 4 bed mattress. Upon more discussion, I discovered that he was shopping based on the shopping list his mother had written for him. Apparently, what he was referring to was a 3/4 bed mattress.

3 4 bed mattress is the mattress meant for Single Bed with the Size 3&340 X 6&346. This form of bed uses a mattress size 3"0 X 6"6with the Height: 3'4'' and the Width: 7'2'' plus Depth: 3'6". 3 4 bed mattress are meant for beds designed to accommodate active kids and limited room space. A sturdy steel tube profile ensures years of use. There are many different sizes that have been made throughout the years. A very common bed was referred to as the "3/4 bed". Many customers believe that their "3/4 bed" is a standard size. 3/4 bed is 48 inches wide by 75 inches in length. However, less then 20% sold in the market these days are actually 3/4 size mattresses.

From what I noticed, this young customer is buying the bed for his younger sibling. so I casually enquired to see if the purchase was for his younger sibling. He was surprised but was glad that I understood his needs. After assuring him that I will do my best to recommend him a good 3 4 bed mattress, he finally felt comfortable and confident to discuss with me.
So I took him around the store to help him check through the selections of 3 4 bed mattress which we have. I believed it was important for a customer to know the choices he has and how they cater to his needs before making a purchase. Thus we went through many choices.

As he was also looking for a bed alongside with the purchase, I showed him the sturdy yet elegant Carved Oak Single Bed Mattress. This Size 3&340 X 6&346 Carved oak single bed is equipped with carved lozenges, turned balusters and square peg joined legs and bun. These are vital features to look for when looking for a stable and long lasting bed. Carved Oak Single Bed uses a mattress size 3"0 X 6"6.

To be exact, the Mattress Size 3"0 X 6"6 must be installed on the bed with the Height: 3'4'', the Width: 7'2'' and the Depth: 3'6 to fit properly in the bed. This is not a problem at all as this is a very popular specification in the mattress productline. I slowly explained everything I could to him because I know this is the perfect bed for his active young sibling.

I know his mom sent him here as a form of learning experience, so I did my best to help him learn when he shops. I gave him a catalogue of the product discussed and suggested that he explained it to his mom or to bring her for the next visit to my store. I bid him farewell and I'm sure he will be back again with his mum to browse for more items such as Area Rugs, Bed Frame or even Bean Bag Chairs. Helping that young customer learn about 3 4 bed mattress was certainly a fun and happy experience. Read more...

5 Steps To A Better Lawn And Garden

If you’re lucky enough to have a lawn with a good topsoil base, much of the hard work of keeping a lawn beautiful is already done for you. But many of us do not have this luxury, and besides, even with a good topsoil base, you still have to work hard to keep a beautiful lawn and garden.

1. The best time to mow a lawn is when it is cool and dry. Wait for the morning dew to dry off, and before the afternoon heat takes hold. Alternatively, late afternoon or early evening following a watering in the morning is also a good time.

2. A hedge is a much better boundary divider than a fence. It will provide better privacy and keep pets and children in – or out. It will attract birds to its shelter, and provide a great backdrop for plants and flowers.

3. Bring the beauty of your garden to you; plant hyacinths near walkways and doors. Their magnificent perfume will swamp the spring air and make your garden really come alive.

4. Add your garden to non-garden items, such a lampposts and mail boxes. Surround these items with flowers planted to take advantage of the earliest to the latest flowerings. You could have white snowdrops, purple and gold crocus, blue hyacinths, and various colored tulips. You could also surround the posts with rocks to provide added interest.

5. Simple, but effective weed control can be achieved on your lawn by mowing often during spring. This will prevent dandelions spreading by eliminating the yellow blossoms and preventing seed formation. Mow high during late spring and early summer. This will allow grass blades to shade the ground, and will help prevent crabgrass from sprouting.

Your lawn and garden should be a source of pride and beauty. You don’t need to spend lots of money on expensive fertilizers and herbicides, or fancy lawn furniture and ornaments. A little commonsense and thought can go a long way to making your lawn and garden a much better place. Read more...