Waukesha County Home

A publication of the Waukesha Freeman and Oconomowoc Enterprise • February 2013 Give your kitchen a face-lift with new cabinets Homes Plus begins new year ■ New front door can ease doubts ■ Simple ways to save energy ■ Improve storage possibilities ■ How to select a local contractor ■ Explore bold paint colors ■ Winter can impact plants, trees ■ Be mindful of indoor air By Jim Cryns SPECIAL TO HOMES PLUS WAUKESHA – There are a few things you use every day like a toothbrush, hopefully the shower and your kitchen cabinets. Whether you're remodeling or building a new home, kitchen cabinets play a big role in the functionality, aesthetics and resale. Bob Rimer has owned Mukwonago Remodeling for 41 years and knows a thing or two about kitchen cabinets. "We're finding for older couples they're looking for a simple cabinet to make things easier in the kitchen," Rimer said. The simplicity might include pull-out drawers and garbage cans. The 'glides' on the cabinets are similar to those used for drawers; they add to efficiency and offer no wasted movements. Rimer said consumers are trending away from oak. "It's cherry and maple," Rimer said. "Also alder, which is considered the poor man's cherry, it stains up beautifully." The whole strategy of kitchen cupboards has changed since your grandmother tied on an apron. Kids are using the cabinets to get a snack, both parents cook and that adds up to "mileage" on the cabinets. "Were not just installing cabinets," Rimer said. "Often we're putting in new electric, backsplashes, countertops, which have to be coordinated with the cabinets." Matching the floor with the countertops and cabinets is another consideration. Rimer said they don't have a showroom, but they've found other ways to reach the customers. Mukwonago Remodeling utilizes the services of a decorator and designer to actually go to the home and work with the owners. "Our consultant will spend up See Cabinets/Page 3 Photo courtesy of S&K Remodeling 230486007 CONTENTS

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