New Year, Timeless Choices: From Gold and Silver Hardware to Tree Nails and the Best Shelf Liners for Your Kitchen
Gold vs. Silver Hardware: Embracing Your Style in Kitchen Design
If you’re an elder millennial or a member of Gen Z, you likely remember the 90s—a decade dominated by cool-toned chrome and nickel finishes in everything from car trims to kitchen faucets. This preference for silver finishes was largely influenced by the minimalist and industrial trends of the time, which favored sleek, metallic looks that mirrored the technological advancements of the era.
Fast forward to the late 2000s, and we witnessed the subtle introduction of gold tones with the rise of rose gold jewelry and accessories—think back to your rose gold Razr phone. This shift marked a significant move away from the stark industrial designs to a warmer, more inviting aesthetic. Gold has since made a strong comeback, cementing its place in home decor well before the pandemic struck.
Now, as you stand on the brink of renovating your kitchen or designing a new one, the question arises: do you stick with the classic silver tones like nickel and chrome, or do you embrace the warm allure of brass and other gold finishes?
Here’s Our Advice:
If your heart leans towards the cool, coastal vibes of silver finishes, then go for what resonates with your style. Don’t fret over resale value—future homeowners will likely personalize the space to their tastes, and hardware is one of the easiest elements to update. However, if you find yourself drawn to the warmth and richness of gold tones, you’re in sync with current trends in kitchen design.
Gold hardware brings a touch of sophistication and warmth that can transform a kitchen from merely functional to stylishly inviting. It pairs beautifully with a wide range of color palettes, enhancing both bold and subtle kitchen designs.
Ultimately, the choice between gold and silver hardware should reflect your personal aesthetic and the overall vibe you want for your kitchen. Remember, design is deeply personal, and the joy it brings should always take precedence over fleeting trends.
So, whether you opt for the cool elegance of chrome or the warm glow of gold, make sure it’s a choice that makes you happy to step into your kitchen every day.
What in the world is a Tree Nail?
In the world of building and design, few materials tell a story quite like reclaimed hand-hewn beams equipped with traditional tree nails. Originating from New England barns built between 1790 and 1820, these beams are not just wood; they're pieces of history, each bearing marks and scars that speak to decades of endurance and craftsmanship.
Tree nails, or 'trenails,' are a classic example of early building technology where wooden pegs were used to join beams together without modern nails or adhesives. These pegs, crafted from the same sturdy wood, expand and contract with the beams, creating a lasting bond that has stood the test of time. Their presence in reclaimed beams not only adds to the aesthetic value but also tells a tale of sustainability and resilience.
If you’re drawn to the rustic charm and storied past of these materials, Whalebone Homes can guide you in integrating these unique elements into your home. Reclaimed beams make stunning architectural features, from fireplace mantels to structural highlights in open-plan spaces, each one unique and a rare treasure to find. Incorporating these into your home not only preserves a piece of history but also ensures your space stands out with unmatched character and warmth.
Interested in making these historical treasures a part of your home? Contact us to explore how we can bring this timeless elegance into your living space, ensuring each piece fits perfectly with your vision and design aesthetic.
Choosing the Right Shelf Liners: Ensuring Clean and Scratch-Free Drawers
Shelf liners are vital for protecting kitchen drawers and shelves from scratches, spills, and wear. However, not all liners perform equally, and some can leave behind sticky residues that cause more problems than they solve.
Many adhesive, rubber, foam, and cheap plastic shelf liners, though intended to protect, often leave a sticky residue. Instead of safeguarding your drawers, they end up damaging them, which defeats the purpose of using a liner in the first place.
For the best results, we've surprisingly loved using IKEA's VARIERA shelf liners, which are durable, clear, and non-slip. These liners fit standard drawers perfectly, provide reliable protection without leaving residue, and are easy to clean. There are many similar products available that can offer comparable benefits. Check out your local hardware store to explore additional options.
If you’re dealing with sticky residues, switch to clear, non-slip liners for hassle-free maintenance and effective protection. For unique drawer sizes or specific needs, consider exploring various non-adhesive options to ensure a perfect fit for your storage spaces.