kbbnyc's Profile

Re: Countertops

We made a wooden top base for the countertop with a surround the depth that we wanted it, also made of wood. On the corner, we added in a piece if bendable metal to make a smooth curve as the transition between the two depths. Then we pored in the concrete, I believe in 3 stages, letting ea. layer become quite dry first. Toward the top, we had to keep smoothing the concrete out (w/ a tile float) in order to get it level. It turned out quite level but not perfectly smooth like the ones the pros do. Actually I really like a little texture. Then we used a clear sealant to keep it in tact. This needs to be done a few times a year. We let it go and now it has more patina- seasoned looking and quite nice.

BTW when the pros do concrete, they make the mold and then flip it so the top is perfectly smooth. We didn't even want to think about attempting this- especially as the counter is 14' long! ; )

Thanks again for questions and comments!

Re: Tiles
Amy, we were lucky with the tiles at Lowe's! We got them at the Lowe's in Farmingdale, NY and we almost didn't see them at all! It turns out that they were doing a "test market" with them in that store only. We bought more than we needed just in case. Sometimes it is really worth physically looking around when you are bargain hunting. It's worth the trip though!

Re: Commercial rental spaces
I completely get that it's strange to spend all of that $ and to take your cabinets. ; ) It takes a certain type of person but the clincher is that your tax break is about three times that of simply an office in a residential space. Also if you have relatively cheap rent and a long lease, it helps. And if you do spend that $, I say take whatever you need, including the kitchen sink. We did!