apartment therapy changing the world, one room at a time

Hello ATers...
We are in the planning phase of 2 upcoming home projects. We want to replace the kitchen counters and backsplash, and then this summer we would like to replace all the windows in our condo. Any recommendations for either?

Just some info... our kitchen is small, and I'm thinking we could find remnants (is that what they are called?). I want to do either matte black granite with white subway tiles as back-splash, or white/grey carrera marble for both-we have white cabinets and wood floors. We would need someone to come in and do everything, we are not handy! For windows we don't want the cheap looking vinyl replacement windows, we live on the top floor of a 3 story walk-up, built in 1918.
Thanks!

Already voted!

Tiffany--

I strongly urge you to secure the services of a local designer to help with the kitchen project. They have access to resources and trades that will (ultimately) save you money and still get you the look you are going for.

Here is a compelling piece of propaganda, in case you're undecided and have not yet voted. Barack the vote. Peace. :)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jjXyqcx-mYY

Voted this AM, and was happily surprised that the voting machines seemed to be up and running and with no room for confusion as in past elections.

OH - and Tiffany - go w/ the Carrera! (IMHO it's far more timeless than granite...) Best of luck, and I am jealous! :)

I am decorating my new rental and plan on a soft palette of browns, grays, black and white, and icy blue. What I need is a suggestion for an accent color. I want something in the place that will pop. What do you think??

@elevenhounds,

orange?

I agree with "art". My first thought was orange. A nice blue-ish mustard color could work, too.

Has anyone here in Chicago ever had a sofa reupholstered? I'm totally in the dark here... where to go, typical cost/time.

YES, WE CAN. : )

My Advice: Carerra Mable will stain in the kitchen so be prepared for tomato, wine and berry stains on the counter if you go that route. Looks good in magazines, don't do it if you cook for real.

Having your sofa re-upholstered will come to about the cost of a new one with labor and fabric. Check out Superior Upholstery on Division Street and ask for James! They do a great job and are as reasonable as you're going to get in the city. (I'm in the biz, and have sent most my clients to him)
Good Luck!

Will there ever be a NYC Open Thread again? Or is CHI now the designated hitter?