The CKD Blog
Where Sarah, and sometimes Steve, share design projects, renovation advice, and other project-related insights.
Cabinetry 101: 5 Steps to Selecting Cabinets with High-Quality Craftsmanship
Welcome to Part 2 of Cabinetry 101, where we’ll be talking about everything you need to know about the cabinets’ style and construction. While this isn’t as exciting as deciding on various colors and hardware details, the construction and features of the cabinets are like the foundation of a house. Build on a good foundation, and the rest will fall into place. Choose the right cabinetry construction, and your design will shine. Keep reading to find out how…
Cabinetry 101: What to Know about the Investment, Quality & Source
Did you know that there is far more to cabinet selection than just choosing the door style and color? That’s why, as part of our planning process, we always take our clients to the cabinet showroom for a first-hand look at the differences in quality, functionality, and style. Steve refers to this as “Cabinetry 101.” Today, I’m inviting you to an abbreviated version of Cabinetry 101 and answering 4 of the top FAQs we hear every time…
A Year in Review: The Good, The Bad & The Oakley
I thought I would wrap up this year by sharing the ups and downs we experienced at work and at home. Without further ado, here are the top 5 things we are thankful for in 2021, along with our goals and vision for 2022 — which includes serving and supporting you. Come take a look...
Guest Post: Steve’s Favorite Kitchen Cabinet Features
Hey y’all, it’s Steve again. I’m taking over for Sarah this week...so today, let’s keep it fun with my favorite kitchen cabinet features, the ones that make cooking, entertaining, and cleanup easy...
5 Decade-Defining Features in Florida Homes & How to Update Them
I’ve been in many homes here on the Gulf coast, and I can tell you that I’ve seen some definite patterns in the types of decade-defining features homeowners are likely to be living with — or buying, if they just moved or transferred here. While not all of these dated design elements need to be given the boot, if they feel out of place to you, there are several solutions you can implement, from renovating to a cosmetic refresh.
Color Combinations That Work With Travertine Tile
Tuscan-inspired homes have almost always included travertine because of its soft golden tone (which matched those yellow walls). Style aside, however, I think its true popularity stems from the fact that it was an affordable upgrade material for flooring and bathroom tile.
The Story of Tile Installation Gone Wrong (With a Happy Ending)
One of the most significant line items for a bathroom renovation with a fully tiled shower is the cost of building the shower and installing the tile. It will be tempting to want to save money on the install by hiring an installer who will do the job for less and use less expensive materials… but is the savings worth it?
3 Myths About Renovating Your Home Before Listing
Steve and I always get asked, “Should I renovate my house before I sell it?” Our answer is: Proceed with caution when spending time and money fixing a house for the next owner. Today, I’m busting 3 myths about renovating before moving. I’m also sharing 5 tips to help you decide if renovating is worth the investment. Come take a look...
How Window Treatments, Textiles & Textures Make Your House Feel Like Home
Finding the right window treatments and textiles is still a large part of what I do — and honestly, is what makes a newly renovated house feel like home.
Top 6 Biggest Decorating Mistakes in Vacation Rentals
Vacation renters are all about the experience your property can give them. They want to vacation in a place that is more luxurious than their own home. When potential guests are looking for a rental, they want a place to enjoy their family, cook dinners, and enjoy a relaxing atmosphere.
Case Study: Beautiful Kitchen Refresh Using Our “Designer By Your Side” Service
She wanted a professional to bounce ideas off of, someone who could ensure she was making a wise investment and help her create a design that looks professionally done. She reached out to us to see if we could help. Yes, we can — with our new Designer By Your Side service!
3 Ways Renovating During Post-Pandemic Times Has Been a Struggle
Home renovations have been impacted by the pandemic, and the setbacks the industry is seeing show no signs of slowing, even as we shift into what will hopefully be post-pandemic times. Here’s what you can expect and how to handle it…