Wall Unit Designs

When designing a wall unit, there are different considerations that one must take into account before ordering one.

Let's start with dimensions...when measuring out your future wall unit, one must not only take into account the physical size of the wall unit cabinets, but also the additional real estate consumed by any decorative accents that sit on top and around the actual wall unit, such as crown moulding, as it can add a few additional inches to all sides of the structure.   Don't forget to also consider the size of additional furniture moulding, wood trim, decorative accents as well that you plan to add to your dimension drawings.

Next, remember to account for utilities and accessibility.  For example, if you would like a wall unit with potlights/accent lighting, you then need to ensure that you budget for the incremental costs of having your contractor/electrican prepare the area for your electric needs beforehand.  You also need to consider your power outlet needs and accessibility to these locations as well.

Now, depending on your TV, stereo and electronics needs, you will also need to consider how to implement hidden cabling for your TV, electronics, cable box, satellite box, speakers, Bluray/DVD players.

Permenant shelving vs adjustable shelving is also somethere to consider as your needs may change over time, and the flexibility of adjustable shelves allows you to modify as necessary so that you can ensure you enjoy your custom wall unit for a very long time!

Richelieu Handles, Hinges, and Knobs

When looking for beautiful handles, hinges and knobs, Richelieu has got you covered.   Whether it be Richelieu's extensive collection of decorative hardware that showcase a classic, contemporary or eclectic style preference, they have something perfect for everyone's taste. 

Their collection incorporates functionality, aesthetics and ergonomics into all of their designs.

With Richelieu's attention to environmental responsibility, you will be pleased to know they have introduced products which they classify into their 'green' product line (LEED(R) certified).

For over 40 years, they have served their customer base with the highest quality and most innovative hardware designs across North America.

Check out www.richelieu.com for more great product ideas. 

Top 10 Closet Accessories

With so many great closet accessories that are available on the market, we wanted to put together our top 10 list of  'must-have' closet accessories.  Hope you enjoy it!

1. Valet Rods
2. Belt Rods
3. Jewellery Trays / Watch Trays
4. Rolling Pant Racks
5. Shoe Fences
6. Crown/Base Moulding
7. Hampers
8. Ironing Boards
9. Hideaway Mirrors
10. Wardrobe Lifts

Kitchen and Bath Industry Show - April 24-26, 2012

Once again the Kitchen and Bath Industry Show (KBIS) will be taking place April 24-26, 2012 in Chicago at the McCormick Place (2301 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago, IL 60616).  Showtime hours are from 9:00am – 5:00pm
Being the Kitchen & Bath industry’s main event, it is a fantastic show highlighting new trends and product releases in the kitchens and baths segments.  It is a great opportunity to participate in conference sessions hosted by industry leaders, meet new vendors, and network with industry experts.  The opening keynote is by Candice Olson, star of HGTV’s Divine Design and Candice Tells All.  

The Kitchen and Bath Industry Show consists of  more than 500 supplier and manufacturers at the conference, 75 seminars topics highlighting the latest products for kitchen and bath.

Click here to go to the KBIS website for more information....

Toronto Closet Design Ideas

With the recent population growth in Toronto over the past decade, many people are looking for closet design ideas that maximize space and usability.

So....what should one consider when designing their closet? 

Lets start by looking at how you currently organize your space.  Consider the following:  Are you currently utilizing all the available space in your closet to its full potential? If not, how come?  Most people have enough closet 'real estate' but many do not have the ideal layout for their storage needs, so space is often underutilized or wasted needlessly.

So where to begin?   Lets start by looking at your current clothing needs and take stock of your current clothing inventory....So count the percentage of clothing categories that you use and how you manage them presently...For example, do you wear suits, do you wear sweaters, do you keep a shoe collection in your closet, how do you put-away your ties... etc....etc...

Once you collected your 'closet inventory' and respective percentages, next figure out the ratio of hanging items vs put-away items via shelves and drawers.  Once you figure out those metrics, it will make your closet design project much easier.

If you are in the greater Toronto area, feel free to give us a call to help you by producing a no-obligation 3-D optimized conceptual design for the layout of your closet, so you too can utilize your closet space to its fullest potential!...Good luck!

Closet Islands - Functional and Stylish

Considering a closet island as your centerpiece to your closet upgrade project?  I don't blame you, custom closet islands are one of the hottest requested items that we are hearing from our closet business.

Folks love to be able to layout what they are going to wear on a granite closet island.  Similar to a kitchen island whereby you layout hor dourves and appetizers for a party, you would similarily layout an evening dress or suit, shirt, and tie combo on it for a formal evening dinner.

Islands can also incorporate a seating area to allow space for trying shoes to match up with a selected outfit.  Islands can also incorporate hideaway zones for lockboxes, mini-safes and important document hide-away regions.

The possibilities are endless......

Toronto National Home Show Kicks Off....

Living in Toronto, many of us look forward to the National Home Show.  Once again it is time as it is kicking off its 2012 show tomorrow...

It runs from March 16-25, 2012 at the Direct Energy Centre at the CNE.  With over 800+ retailers/exhibiters/industry experts it will be another massive event.  Whether you are researching for a new home build, renovating your current place, or just checking out the latest trends for the coming year, I am sure that there is some interesting there for everyone.

Highlights this year include Bryan Baeumler, host of HGTVs Leave it to Bryan, House of Bryan, and Disaster DIY, I am sure his presentation is one not to miss!

Here is the Home Show website

Enjoy the show!

Custom Basements - Things To Considers Before Starting a Renovation

When deciding how to design your custom basement, many folks forget to take into account many considerations before having work started on their basements.  Ask yourself, "What should I consider when designing a basement..."

First, determine what is the basement going to be used for...perhaps:
-Secondary family room
-Playroom for the kids
-Additional bedrooms
-Kitchenette
-TV theatre room
-Entertaining wetbar / games room
-Custom bathroom / spa
Or a combination of any/all of these....the possibilities are ENDLESS :)

Now, once you figure your list of what you need/want, next is getting into the layout.  This process is very important to ensure you get the most out of your basement renovation project.  You need to walk around with a tape measure to get accurate dimensions of your potential rooms.  In an unfinished basement, use masking tape on the floor to envision walls, furniture, objects, and walkways (ie:  remember putting in a 4x8 pool table also requires a few feet of clearance around the entire table).  Typically, sketch out your layout with furniture on graph paper to get a better accurate idea of spacing.

Next, once you figure out the layout, you should list/sketch out all of your accessories (lamps, mini-fridge, tv, stereos, computers etc...).  This will help you map out and determine your electrical, heating/venting and lighting needs.  Don't forget to consider where your windows are for bringing in nature light as well into your custom basement design.

Check out our custom basement ideas or our picture gallery to get you started...

Good luck!

Styling Your Custom Built-ins

Large wall to wall, built-in shelves are all the rage now a days. When you have the walls, they can be a smart way to maximize your vertical storage space and organize your things. But sometimes open shelves are an invitation for clutter, disorganization and piles of messes. Large, expansive shelves can be intimidating to fill. Here's some tips on arranging your favourite things and styling the perfect shelf.

- When possible, use a monochromatic colour scheme on the shelf, to create a cohesive, cleaner look. Shelf arrangements look their best when you use one neutral like ivory or black scattered throughout to ground the rest of the your things. Arranged in 3's or 5's in a "Z"-like pattern is a visually interesting merchandising secret.

- Mix up books, magazines, collectibles and personal accessories. Don't be afraid to top artwork or picture frames on stacks of books or magazines.

- Use larger scale objects to fill in space, ensuring that they relate to each other, in terms of size and scale. Group smaller, similar, like objects (eg. a set of small vases) close together on a single shelf. Stand back after placing objects on shelves and do the eye test, or snap a picture, review it and see if anything sticks out as being misplaced or out of scale.

- Repeat, repeat, repeat - a key principle in design is to repeat visual elements, such as line, colour, shape, texture or image. Not only does it unify a space or shelf to give it the designer-look, but it's creates rythm and flow in the space.

- Baskets and storage boxes are not only beautiful but functional. Store smaller items, toys, files, and collectibles inside - using several of the same baskets throughout is another great way to create repition to your overall shelf display.

Play around with the placement of all your accessories and objects. It could take a few days of review until it feels just right. Find a home for everything, and in the end, you'll love the results!

Move or Invest In Your Home

You've contemplated a move, looked over homes on the market, and then re-looked at your current home, and think, maybe it was best to stay put and invest in a home renovation. Before you start,  there are some key considerations you should really sit down and think over before deciding what to renovate in your home. One of the key considerations is resolving functionality issues that need fixing in your current space - do you want to move because your current space doesn't work for you any longer or is it too small? Will a renovation address and resolve the issues? Does your neighbourhood warrant the level of renovation you're planning on investing in? How much should you invest in your home?

Next and probably one of the most important steps is to hire a professional designer or architect. If your renovation is substantial and requires structural changes, hiring a professional or specialist is critical in ensuring you're doing a proper job. Renovation mistakes can be costly, and hiring a designer or architect to properly plan for the entire project from start to finish will save you loads. Carefully research designers and architects you are considering to hire, interview them to ensure your personalities connect well and they hear your wishes and concerns. 

 Next you're ready to hire a contractor. Make sure you check references. Check previous jobs and at least one current project site. Select 2 to 3 contractors that you approve of to be ready for plans to bid on. Once you've nailed down plans for the renovation job, you can ask each to provide their costing.

Now you're ready for the actual design process. Maintain files, samples, and notes for each room you are working on. Insert magazine clippings with specific notes on what you like and dislike. Create your wish lists of likes and dislikes for each room, no matter how small or big the point may be.

Make sure all permits are on hand on site.  Do your homework yourself when it comes to permits, even if the contractor says he will take care of things. Always check with your local building department.

You are now ready for the actual work.  Always ensure you have adequate funds for the renovation and a reserve fund for unforeseen issues or changes in the scope of the project. The larger the project, the more reserve you will need. It does not mean you have to spend it – but you most likely won’t be able to get more once you start the work. 

  

Patience is key when it comes to any reno, no matter how big or small. Just keep the end in mind and before you know it, you will be enjoying the benefits!

Welcome to Toronto Custom Concepts!

Whether it is a custom built-in wall unit or custom shelves that you're looking for, or perhaps it is a custom kitchen or cabinet upgrade that you had in mind, the design team at Toronto Custom concepts will make your dream concept a reality.

Our reputation of top quality work is validated by the majority of our customer referrals being via word of mouth. Our craftsmanship and pride in our work guarantees that the job will be completed to exceed your expectations.

Our operations have expanded to include solutions for custom built-in closets, wall units, kitchens, basements, and bathrooms just to name a few.

Feel free to contact us to discuss and to plan out your new build or renovation project today.
TCC