Author Archive

Cindy & Chuck Y

Posted on: January 23rd, 2014 by Anthony Ramirez

We want to let you know how thrilled we are with our new kitchen. From the beginning you have listened to our ideas and needs. You were able to see our vision and put it into reality. Your group researched and work the specific designs to make all components (cabinets, drawers, countertop, appliances, sink) match our specs. Neil, you were great with the design, and Peg you made it all work.

Your installers, Brooke and Tom were efficient and very concerned about the quality of the installation. They were enjoyable to have around and kept the area clean & organized. They explained how all the components worked. And gave instructions when necessary.

We also need to put a shout out to Dave, Tom, and Matt for their excellent job in the construction/finishing. They were professional and orderly. They were able to explain when something wouldn’t work logistically and we were able to figure an alternate design. They were prompt and dedicated. Each evening, the area was vacuumed, wiped down, and equipment put out of the way. So we could still use the kitchen area.

Again, thank you for building our perfect kitchen.

7 Things to Know Before Replacing Kitchen Counters

Posted on: January 2nd, 2014 by Anthony Ramirez

Your countertop plays both a practical and aesthetic role in your kitchen. A well-used work surface, it has to be hardy enough to endure the everyday wear and tear of meal prep and cleanup—and still look good. Over time even the strongest of materials are going to show their age. If it’s plastic laminate, the finish will eventually chip and show scratches, and there may be a burn mark or two from hot pots. Even a stone surface is going to take a beating that will eventually mar its surface. So replacing just the old counters while leaving the rest of existing of the kitchen intact often makes sense. Depending on the material, the job is not that complicated or prohibitively expensive. But there are some important factors to consider before taking the plunge.

1. The Existing Countertop Material

“High-definition laminate countertops, or solid-surface materials, screw into place, so they are easier to change, especially if you are replacing the counter just for resale,” says John Petrie, CKD, president-elect of the National Kitchen and Bath Association and owner of Mother Hubbard’s Custom Cabinetry.

Hard stone can fall prey to cracks or pitting. So, although it’s not the easiest countertop to remove, you may prefer to replace damaged stone rather than repair it.

2. The Cabinets

Swapping a plastic laminate countertop for stone? Make sure the cabinets, or the floor for that matter, can support the additional weight.

You may also want to hold off on a new countertop if you’re planning to make more changes later. A tired kitchen will get an instant style boost but, “An investment in pricey quartz or granite may not be easily removable in the future when you want to upgrade cabinets,” says Petrie. “If you’re replacing your countertop with stone, you may not be able to find a fabricator who is willing to remove it later. Stone is hard, but it’s also fragile,” cautions the designer.

3. The Plumbing

Jim Kabel, CR, owner and general manager of CASE Design, says “Let’s assume you’re replacing a tile countertop with a solid surface, like stone or an engineered composite surface, such as Silestone. While the cabinets may stay in place, [a rimmed or self-rimming top-mounted] sink nearly always needs to be replaced. The exception is when the existing sink is mounted under an existing stone counter.

“The sink change impacts the faucet configuration, and so it is likely that the faucet will have to be replaced, as well,” says Kabel. Designer Petrie adds, “Replacing a countertop, in fact, affects a lot of the elements around the sink, including the garbage disposer, which doesn’t uninstall easily.”

4. The Backsplash

A new countertop means a new backsplash, too. These two elements go hand in hand with one another, and you’ll want to make sure the materials either match or coordinate harmoniously.

“The backsplash typically needs to be replaced at the same time as the countertop because it is mounted on top of the surface,” explains Kabel. When you’re planning your budget for the new countertop, don’t forget to include the cost of the backsplash material and installation.

5. Your Old Appliances

Consider how your old appliances will look with your new countertop. “Think of it something like wearing a new outfit with an old pair of shoes. Sometimes it can look like the devil,” Petrie warns.

But if appliances are relatively new and in good shape, not to worry, even if you have a cooktop instead of a freestanding range. Remodeler Kabel says, “A cooktop is usually mounted on top of the surface, and can be easily removed and reset in the same location, assuming the base cabinet remains the same or the same size.”

6. Lighting

Designer Petrie says, “A lot of my clients have under-cabinet lighting. It’s easy to install, but hard to figure out how to run the wiring if you’re re-installing them.” It’s also worth noting that under-cabinet lighting can cause eye-straining glare when it’s aimed directly onto a highly polished stone surface. It’s something to think about when you’re choosing countertop material.

7. Shop Carefully

“Watch out for low-cost, prefabricated stones surfaces,” says Kabel. “Usually, these are available in only a few common species. The slabs are pre-cut to standard cabinet depth but don’t take into account variances in walls or seam locations.”

It may cost more, but going the custom route, like the homeowner did here, working with reliable design and installation professionals, is the smartest decision you can make. And although a new countertop will not necessarily make your kitchen better functioning, it can be a handsome improvement you’ll definitely enjoy.

Artcile Posted On: http://www.cultivate.com/articles/7-things-know-replacing-kitchen-counters?pagenumber=1

Cindy and John

Posted on: September 13th, 2013 by Anthony Ramirez

My husband and I have waited a number of years to give our kitchen a face lift. Since we were on a tight budget we consulted the larger home
improvement stores for quotes of new quartz countertops and tile backsplash.
We always left feeling like just another number to them and decided to put the project on hold again.

One day I came across the advertisement for Laslo’s Custom Kitchens in the local magazine. I thought the kitchen photographed was beautiful and decided to give them a call. I hesitated at first, being our project was “small” and would not be of interest.

I spoke with Neil that very day, asked him if they would be interested in our project. He said absolutely. He came within a short time to see our kitchen and discussed our options. He took his time, was respectful of our budget while giving us ideas to make our kitchen feel like new.

He was very thorough with details and ideas. Very patient and accommodating with our questions and concerns.

His staff courteous, and his contractors were neat, professional and reliable!
We love our kitchen! We highly recommend Laslo’s Custom Kitchens to anyone who desires quality work with professional and personal attention to detail and customer satisfaction! Neil told us he likes his customers to be satisfied with their work, and he kept his word! This is something you will NOT find in larger home improvement stores!

Patrick C

Posted on: August 27th, 2013 by Anthony Ramirez

My wife and I hired Laslo Custom Kitchens to remodel and we could not be more thrilled! We had many unique and unorthodox modifications where Neil and team gave their professional opinion based on years of experience and skill. We would have never thought of the new layout without their expertise and the quality of their product, installation and skill are unmatched. We have received an overwhelming response of how beautiful our kitchen has become and would recommend Laslo Custom Kitchens to all!

Rachel M

Posted on: August 27th, 2013 by Anthony Ramirez

We hired Neil and the team at Laslo’s to design and install our new custom kitchen. Since we were not sure exactly what we wanted, Neil walked us through the process each and every step of the way. From a number of creative design ideas to a beautiful finished product, we could not be happier! I would absolutely recommend Neil and the team at Laslo’s for your new kitchen.

Project Management

Posted on: August 13th, 2013 by Anthony Ramirez

Have you considered renovations but the hassle and stress of finding contractors in the Lehigh Valley, dealing with the project issues that inevitably seem to come up, and managing the whole remodel is just too overwhelming?  Trying to find remodeling contractors in the Lehigh Valley to handle all the elements of remodeling is time consuming and aggravating. But at Laslo Kitchens, we do all of that for you.  All of it.  We manage the remodeling project from start to finish…all you have to do is dream up the design and then enjoy the results.

no hassle

We will contact all the contractors involved in all aspects of the remodel and we will be responsible for explaining the instructions of each segment of the job. Because we have trusted relationships with local electricians, plumbers, demolition contractors, painters, lighting and flooring contractors in the Lehigh Valley, you won’t need to contact anyone but us while the job is in progress.  Think about how easy that would be to have just one point of contact throughout a home remodel.  That’s a great customer service and that’s what sets us apart from other remodeling companies.

So sit back and relax and leave the remodeling to us.

So what are you waiting for? Call us today and get started on YOUR dream kitchen. We proudly service the Lehigh Valley, Allentown, Bethlehem, Easton, Bucks County, Northampton County and beyond.

Home Renovations & Ideas

Posted on: August 13th, 2013 by Anthony Ramirez

Why should you consider doing home renovations?

If you’re planning on selling your home soon, certain home renovations will create more value for the potential buyer than others. Kitchen and bathroom home renovations are big value accelerators.  But when you consider what it takes to renovate your home you get tired just thinking about it. You may need some assistance when it comes to more complicated renovations, but there are also some easy renovations that you can do yourself too.  Which home renovations would be right for your busy lifestyle?

It doesn’t have to create havoc and stress in your life for home renovations. From simple tweaks to more extensive renovations, we have the team to help you.

Here are just some of the ways you can renovate to improve the value of your home (or just enjoy your home):

So what are you waiting for? Call us today and get started on YOUR dream kitchen. We proudly service the Lehigh Valley, Allentown, Bethlehem, Easton, Bucks County, Northampton County and beyond.

Custom Designs Showroom

Posted on: August 13th, 2013 by Anthony Ramirez

Let your imagination run wild when  you visit our showroom of custom designs.  The wilder the idea, the better, because we have the custom designs and skilled designers to help you create the unique room you envision in your dreams. Would you like a room with a fireplace but you’re not the traditional fireplace and mantle type?  How about a sunken fireplace in the center of the room? Or maybe you’d like a skylight large enough to bathe the entire area of your living room in gorgeous natural light?  How about a state of the art outdoor kitchen and dining area that puts other cook-outs to shame?  A walk in closet with enough storage and class to rival ones you see in magazines?  Take a look through our photo gallery…there you’ll find pictures of our custom furniture and some gorgeous rooms that will inspire you to start thinking about how to make your home more reflective of your personality and who you are. Remember…if you can imagine it, we can build it.

Custom Designs & Ideas

We service the Lehigh Valley, Allentown, Easton, Northampton County, Bethlehem, Bucks County and beyond.   Check us out today and learn more about how we can help you make your home your most unique, and special space, through custom designs.

Business Organization and Cabinets

Posted on: August 13th, 2013 by Anthony Ramirez

Home Business organization cabinetry services are becoming very popular and if you are starting a new business, expanding an existing business or just need a more efficient and organized office, we have just the thing for you.

When you are a business owner, if there was ever a place where you needed to be inspired –  it’s your office.  A cluttered desk does little to enhance the planning and brainstorming process.  Why not consider an office with an artful and organized wall of cabinets, shelves, and drawers for all your files, reference materials and important papers.

before-after

What could you do with some home business organization?

Imagine sitting in an office that is both streamlined and attractive.  An office that not only suits your personality and style, but also your working style.  You can have a functional place where each file, plan, or invoice has its own place and is easily found when needed.  An office that helps get your creative juices flowing, rather than a space that gives you a stress headache.

You could optimize your home office with natural lighting, patio doors, or even a sky light.  A happier office is a more productive office and your wishlist is just waiting to be implemented.

Visit our gallery and showroom to see how we have helped home business owners gain back business organization in the Lehigh Valley, Berks County, Allentown, Easton, Northampton County, and Bethlehem.  Let us help you too!

Closet Organization

Posted on: August 13th, 2013 by Anthony Ramirez

Do you dream of clean and functional closet organization?

There is nothing more annoying than trying to squeeze your clothes into a crammed full closet.  Looking for a certain pair of pants turns into a treasure hunt when you don’t have enough space and organization in your closet. We will build you a room sized closet that will give you a place for every outfit and accessory plus a place for storing winter and summer seasonal clothes right there in the same closet.

closet after.sm

Or how about the kids’ room?  Eliminate all the excuses for messy rooms by giving them the closet organization and storage they need for their clothes and toys.

walk in closet 2.sm.cropped

No more lugging heavy boxes up to the attic for winter and bringing them back down in the summer. You can have a wall for winter and a wall for summer with drawers and shelves galore. And plenty of room to hang your short dresses and longer dresses – so you can actually see what you own at a glance.  Closet organization is only a consultation away.  Tell us about your needs and wants and we will customize a closet for you.

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