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If you’re starting to feel like your kitchen isn’t functioning as well as it once did, it might be time to consider a remodel. Here are the top 7 signs that you need a change.

1. Space is not fully utilized

Good design is about function.  Awkward angles and inefficient layouts waste perfectly good space.  A professional kitchen designer will evaluate your existing kitchen and create architectural magic by utilizing every inch with space-saving efficiency.

2. You’re noticing wear and tear

Broken cabinet drawers, peeling laminate finishes and doors with broken hinges are just depressing.  When the overall cabinet quality is poor, upkeep is a never ending battle.  Solid hardwood construction and quality craftsmanship is the solution that supports heavy duty kitchen activities.

Geneva Cabinet Company is known for sustainable solutions through quality cabinetry.

signs of high quality cabinetry

Geneva Cabinet Company represents the finest manufacturers..

3.  Your kitchen layout is frustrating

Is your kitchen in a constant state of gridlock?  Our designers will evaluate your lifestyle and daily activities as well as the space.  An inefficient floorplan will make cooking and other everyday activities more complicated than necessary.  The right design places everyone at ease.

4. There’s never enough workspace

Countertops are work surfaces.  Ample counter space is essential to your sanity.  If you have to clear space before there is room for everyday activities like meal prep, you need a new plan.

5. Clutter is uncontrollable

Clutter happens when you lack storage space.  Easy access drawers, pull-outs and updated cabinet interiors will maximize storage space and keep equipment and supplies in sight.

6.  Appliances are outdated

Outdated appliances will be inefficient, unreliable and even post a safety hazard.  Upgrading to newer energy-efficient models can save you money on your utility bills and make your time in the kitchen more productive.

7. You’re ready to increase the value of your home

Signs it's time to remodel your kitchen

Beyond functionality, beautiful cabinetry has the power to secure your investment while visually transforming your home.  As the heart of the home, remodeling the kitchen will reward you daily with satisfaction.

Visit our award winning showroom in Lake Geneva for inspiration and ideas.

Contact us for an appointment today!

 (262) 245-9600
info@genevacabinet.com

 

 

Style and storage work together as a top priority for kitchen design in 2024.  This is the place where daily life happens, from morning coffee to evening gatherings with friends.  It truly is the heart of the home, and a makeover investment will reward you immediately.   Launch each day with efficiency and wind down at sunset knowing everything is complete and it its place.

If remodeling the kitchen is on your wish list this year, follow along as we share our latest designer approved trends.

style and storage is on trend in the kitchen

Plato Woodwork Inc Cabinetry, Shanna Wolf Photography

Personalized with Functional Storage

Functional storage for the kitchen

Plato Woodwork Inc, Bella Tile & Stone, Shana Wolf Photography

What is functional storage? We like to think of it as cabinetry that makes sense for your personal style of cooking, snacking, and lounging around.  Overcrowded cabinets waste time and energy while you search for what you need.  We recommend extra deep drawers to accommodate bulky essentials and specialized pullouts so necessities are in view.

Plato Woodwork Inc Cabinetry

 Imagine a clutter free existence where you can find everything you need at first glance.

We would love that for you!

The Back Kitchen Takes Center Stage

The back kitchen butlers pantry

Plato Woodwork Inc, Shanna Wolf Photography

The Back Kitchen is moving forward as a place to operate behind the scenes.  The purpose is to help the main kitchen become a clutter-free living space.  The back kitchen includes extra storage and workspace that is a bit more spacious than a standard butler’s pantry.   It’s the ideal place to keep large serving pieces, extra pantry stock and the messy part of food prep.

A (Back) Splash of Character

style with show stopping backsplash tile

Bella Tile & Stone Backsplash, Shanna Wolf Photography

Tile treatments have evolved into an art of their own.  Placing a unique tile on the backsplash is an ideal way to express personal style and set the tone of the kitchen.  In our latest remodel, backsplash tile from Bella Tile & Stone pairs with an arched window and high-quality custom cabinetry from Plato Woodwork Inc to take centerstage and command attention.

Adjust the Mood with Layered Lighting

kitchen lighting in layers

Remodeled Kitchen with Versatile Lighting, Shanna Wolf Photography

The freshest idea for kitchen lighting is versatility. We don’t always need 100%.  The idea of a sconce in the kitchen or interior cabinet lighting adds flexibility according to mood.

Design Details Adding Dimension

Attention to detail is how design is elevated from average to exceptional.  This includes cabinet selection, hardware, lighting and also the care taken for a precise kitchen layout.  Is there a blender outlet close to the smoothie supplies?  Can two cooks work together without a standoff at the sink?  A well-designed kitchen is customized for your unique habits, function and style.

Kitchen Design by Joyce Zuelke, ckbd

When it’s time to reward yourself with a new kitchen, talk to our designers for the most personalized solutions.

Our showroom has beautiful displays to help you select the ideal storage and style for your home.  Here you will experience the touch and feel of each cabinet and see all of the luxurious finishes available.

 

The kitchen is the command center for home activity, so when summer rolls around make the swap to an outdoor kitchen for a refreshing change.  This upgrade will improve your attitude, and potentially your home’s value.

Increase Living Space

outdoor kitchen expands living space

Geneva Cabinet Company, Lowell Custom Homes, Shanna Wolf Photography    

Often backyards don’t live up to their full potential.  Create outdoor rooms that will bring dormant property to life.  When planning, place the outdoor kitchen in an area that is easy to access from indoors.  For more tips see our Outdoor Kitchen Guide.

Fluid Space for Entertaining

outdoor kitchen for more space to entertain

Geneva Cabinet Company, Lowell Custom Homes, Shanna Wolf Photography

Social events are more appealing when guests can flow between spaces.  An event that begins indoors suddenly becomes more relaxed as guests follow the sun.  Adding an outdoor gathering space expands your entertainment opportunities for more fun with family and friends.

Increase Healthy Outdoor Time

Outdoor kitchen helps spend more quality time outdoors

Geneva Cabinet Company, Lowell Custom Homes, Shanna Wolf Photography

Spending time outdoors improves health and well-being.  Take everyday activities alfresco to boost your energy along with many other proven health benefits.

Energy Saving

Outdoor Kitchens saves energy

Geneva Cabinet Company, Lowell Custom Homes

Cooking outdoors will keep the heat out of the kitchen on a steamy summer day.  Save on air conditioning while the grill multitasks for meal preparation.  Plus, grilled food has its own deliciously unique flavor!

Make the Most of Spring and Summer

Outdoor Kitchens Make the Most of Spring and Summer

Geneva Cabinet Company, Lowell Custom Homes, Photo by Aimee Mazzenga

While the weather is pleasant, take advantage of every day with an outdoor kitchen surrounded with comfortable seating.  Adding a fireplace or heater will extend your seasons from the beginning of spring through the early days of winter.

Designed to Fit Your Home

Outdoor Kitchens designed to fit your needs

Geneva Cabinet Company, Lowell Custom Homes, Shanna Wolf Photography

Geneva Cabinet Company will design the perfect outdoor kitchen to fit your space and budget.  Tuck one into an existing outdoor niche or have our designers create a layout to perfectly suite your needs.

Contact us and we’ll help you get this project started!

262-245-9600

 

 

 

Kitchen lighting takes center stage as part of this years trend for brighter spaces.  But the kitchen has some unique challenges.  As the heart of the home it must be multifunctional.  Geneva Cabinet designers are familiar with all of the detailed requirements and like to develop each cabinet plan with lighting in mind.  It’s not an afterthought. Lighting should be integrated at the planning phase of every kitchen design.

These guidelines will help you plan lighting for the most important room in your home.

Layers of Light for Your Design

The key is to blend various light sources that will overlay all of your needs. The basic approach involves 3 types of lighting for any room.  Ambient (general lighting),  Accent (highlighting points of interest), and Task (performance zones).  We like to add a 4th, Feature.  Feature lighting will make a statement that defines the mood and attitude of your design.

1. Ambient or General Lighting

Ambient lighting is usually overhead and provides a shadow-free environment.  This can be a combination of recessed lighting and fixtures.  Use separate controls and dimmers for adjustability to vary the mood throughout the day.  Full bright light for active kitchen hours and then softly dimmed for dining or entertaining.

Best Options

  • Ceiling or wall-mounted fixtures
  • Track lighting
  • Traditional recessed fixtures
  • LED downlights

Once your ambient lighting is placed, it’s time to layer in support lighting.

2. Accent Lighting

Often used to highlight points of interest or architectural features, accent lighting contributes a soft glow without glare.  Coves, shelving, and artwork can be emphasized with accent lighting.  Here again a dimmer will lend a variety of moods.

Best Options

  • LED Strips
  • Sconces
  • Picture lights
  • Track lights

3. Task Lighting

Task light is an essential part of the plan that focuses directly on prep areas.  Usually, this lighting is located under the cabinets, close to the countertop for specific kitchen tasks.  Chopping, blending and appliance operation is safer on an easy to see surface.  The kitchen island is often treated with pendants for good visibility in this multi-task area.

Best Options

  • Pendant lighting
  • Under-cabinet lighting
  • Recessed fixtures

4. Feature Lighting

This is the opportunity to add personality to your space.  Placed over an island, dining table or centered in the room, this fixture exudes character and often sets the style and tone for the entire space.

Best Options

  • Chandelier
  • Pendants

For more kitchen inspiration check our Gallery Page!

Visit our Lake Geneva showroom to see the latest in kitchen and bath design and meet our talented team for everything from design to installation!

 

 

Cabinetry in this project is Inovae from Plato Woodwork Inc.

Photography by Josh Z Photography

Design by Joyce Zuelke, ckd

 

Bathroom remodeling is one of the most popular home improvements with a very good return on your investment.  But the fear of making a mistake can put plans on hold.  We want to give you the confidence to move forward with peace-of-mind. Our design team is ready to walk you through the process step by step.  It begins by following a few basic rules.

Always Start With Function

It is very likely that function is the key motivator behind a bathroom makeover.  It could be too small, dated, or just not working. For this project, designer Joyce Zuelke, ckbd recreated the primary bath by borrowing space from an adjacent laundry room and hall bath.  The new design delivers a spacious bathroom suite with the bonus of improved laundry storage.

Select Storage With Style

Das Holz Haus Rift Cut White Oak , Corian Quartz, Kohler Sink & Faucet

Style is truly a matter of personal preference. Take the time to browse through the wide variety available in our inspiration gallery.  Make a note when a particular style catches your eye over and over again.   If longevity is the goal, a timeless character is ideal.  This could include Shaker, like this vanity from Das Holz Haus along with Traditional, and Transitional styles.

Choose Easy Access

The curbless zero-threshold shower is a visual delight with functional benefit.  Originating as a solution for those with mobility issues, this design has become the benchmark for an open airy look that eliminates tripping hazards.  The floor tile from Bella Tile and Stone runs seamlessly into the shower through a glass grid shower door.  Overall this is a useful feature when planning ahead for future life stages.

Enhanced Your Shower Experience

It’s so nice to have the options offered by multiple shower heads. A rain shower head is a calming addition to your daily routine with the hand-held unit ideal for helping children, pets or rinsing down the enclosure. The recessed shower niche keeps products within reach while the built in shower bench is a sturdy and generous resting place.

Make Room to Relax

Space is a luxury, so when you have room, upgrade to a freestanding tub where you can relax and rejuvenate.  In todays fast paced world we often forget about the health benefits of soaking in a bathtub.  From soothing sore muscles to improving sleep, bathing may be valuable self-care.

Customize Your Storage

Ultimately, it’s about a bathroom design that makes life easier. Adequate space allows you to organize toiletries and towels, so everything is within reach.  Power outlets in the drawers or cabinets can eliminate the tangled cords allowing you to move on to the business of styling yourself.

Oh, And the Laundry . . .

Medallion Cabinets in the laundry is a wash day winner!

For a seamless remodeling experience visit us in Lake Geneva.  Our showroom is packed with informative product displays and a friendly team to guide you from design to installation.

Photos by Josh Z Photography

Cabinetry from Das Holz Haus

Tile by Bella Tile and Stone Lake Geneva

If you hear a rumor that open floor plans are going out of style, don’t believe it!  The fact is open planning, especially around the kitchen, is more popular than ever.  While the past 18 months revealed the value of private space, the kitchen is still a place for social gatherings.

 Just be sure to make it work by following our guidelines.

Design Plan

As this plan shows, an open kitchen is about more than just the kitchen space.  It is about the entire area flowing together for a cheerful home.  The focus is on comfort and efficiency, with a good dash of style.

We like the idea of a Multi-Zoned kitchen.  This concept was discussed in our past blog, read it here.

Now, think in terms of carrying the multi-zoned idea to the entire open space of your home plan.  The kitchen is commonly defined by cabinetry.  The other areas of an open plan can be indicated in several other ways.  Furniture groupings, area rugs, art and shelving can designate areas for conversation, work/study and entertainment.

Zones Not Walls

Kitchen zones are great for organizing your space according to food preparation, cooking, clean-up and dining. Even a snack bar helps with family self-service to relieve the cook.  Note that this kitchen even has a peaceful little nook.

This plan also features refrigerator drawers in the snack bar and a casual dining area for one stop treats.

Plan Storage for a Tidy Open Plan

Keeping the open plan orderly is essential.  Pull-out storage provides easy access and encourages everyone to put things back in place.

Flow Through Space

Effortless movement from one area to another is the key to a successful open plan.  To accomplish this we recommend keeping furnishings and storage units low to allow clear sight lines throughout the space.

Scale and Proportion

Cabinetry contributes to the overall appearance of the space and will help set the style.  Along with this, furniture selected for the open plan should maintain the proper proportions.  A kitchen island is fairly large and can be nicely balanced with comfy upholstery.

Lighting

We like the layered approach to lighting described here.   This tactic allows the most versatility with different options depending on the time of day or use of space.

Style it Right

 Finally, continue the color and style concept throughout the entire open space.  In general, Traditional and Modern styles mix well with other style genres.  That explains why these are so popular when it’s time to choose cabinetry.  Mix in your personalized preferences for a little Farmhouse or a touch of Industrial and create your personalized look.

The designers at Geneva Cabinet Company are here to take your cabinetry to the next level with exceptional design.  Call anytime for more information!

262-245-9600

Designer Natalie Spiniolas

Photography by Shanna Wolf/S. Photography

Cabinetry in this project is from Plato Custom Woodwork

Adding an outdoor kitchen is a great way to enjoy your home year-round. Spaces that mingle activities with fresh air environments rate high on the homeowner satisfaction scale.  The 2021 Outdoor Living Report  reveals that 82% of American homeowners see the value of adding an outdoor living spaces.  This is more than a passing fancy, it is a shift in lifestyle.

Blurring the Lines

Blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor space is a trend with staying power.   This home built by Lowell Custom Homes opens the kitchen with a NanaWindow. This allows the well appointed indoor kitchen to serve double duty.

We love the way this kitchen opens up to the screened-in porch for a refreshing breeze.  The counter height bar is perfect for casual dining or buffet service.  Protection from the elements and additional seating extends the outdoor season gracefully.

 

Creating a Moment

It’s about more than cooking, this kitchen integrates with the outdoor environment for an inviting experience.  Transitioning from cooking to dining and entertaining is effortless when designed into your landscape plan.

 

 

Long-lasting Durability

Our choice is Danver for cabinetry with a long-lasting stainless steel powder coat finish.  We pair these cabinets with natural stone countertops, stainless steel appliances and all-weather furnishings made to withstand the elements.  Choosing quality will help bring a return on the initial investment.

Customized Kitchen Design

Our designers are inspired by you to create an outdoor ensemble that caters to your cooking and serving style.  Equip your outdoor kitchen with a grilling station, pizza oven, warming drawers, refrigerator, bar, and plenty of weatherproof storage.

 

For more design tips visit our Outdoor Kitchen Guide then call us to get your plan started.

262-245-9600

 

 

 

Why suffer through kitchen clutter when attention to your cabinet interiors can smooth the way to a more organized life.  We are all familiar with the popular pull-out waste bin, now imagine that convenience amplified for your entire kitchen.

We always begin the kitchen design process by identifying work zones and the equipment needed for efficient operations. Now we can take it to the next level with the latest specialty fittings for the interior of cabinets, doors and drawers.  These details are sure to impress you with the way they maximize space and ease daily kitchen routines.

Start making your list of improvements with these latest innovations!

Lazy Susan (or more PC, Tiered Corner Rotating Shelf) with Interior Lighting

 

The Blind Corner Organizer

Deep Tiered Drawers for Cookware Next to Range

K-Cup Organizer for the Coffee Station

The Junk Drawer Elevated with Tiered Storage

 

Going Deep With Drawer & Cabinet Pullouts for Cookware & Large Appliances

Full Height Pantry Pull-out Drawers

 

Clear Counters and No Stooping for Paper Towels & Cleaning Supplies

 

Tuck Away a Charging Station Neatly in a Drawer

Knife Block and Food Prep Organizer with Cutting Boards

 

The Cut Out Cutting Board

 

And of course, the Waste & Recycling Pull-outs!

If you are considering new cabinetry for your kitchen, bath or other storage space in your home, we encourage you to plan early and allow time for the industry to catch up with the current shortages.  As always, we look forward to working with you.

Visit our Inspiration Gallery here

 

 

The kitchen work triangle will never go out of style, but a new concept in kitchen design is emerging and we think you’ll like it.  It takes the idea of work zones to the next level.  Traditionally the work triangle included efficient spacing between the refrigerator, sink and range.  But this new approach is expanding that idea to include designated areas for other common kitchen tasks.  With everyone spending more time at home, the addition of specialty stations for drinks, snack, homework and work-at-home is gaining momentum. This is a real plus, especially when we are spending more time at home and all using the kitchen at once.

Kitchen Zones

Multiple and flexible zones are a personalized way to design a kitchen that includes sophisticated storage, integrated appliances and statement backsplashes.  This lovely example features Shiloh Cabinetry for a remodel by Stebnitz Builders.

 

Cooking Zone

Featuring backsplash by Bella Tile and Stone and a range hood by Raw Urth

 

Food Storage Zone

Consumable food storage includes refrigeration and pantry cabinets.

Food Prep Zone

The food preparation zone can be a short distance from cooking zone to allow multiple cooks to work at the same time.

 

Cleaning Zone

A centralized location that allows for free movement between work surfaces, dishwasher and trash.

Storage Zone

Non-consumables storage houses cooking and dining essentials.

 

Storage and Coffee Bar

Specialty areas follow along with each homeowners interests.

 

Dining and Multi-Use Island Surface

A grand island offers casual dining and an expansive work surface for homework, work-at-home or craft projects.

Beverage Bar and Refreshment Station

An additional area adjacent to the main living space can relieve congestion and centralize snack and beverage options.

 

Kitchen Plan Overview

If you are considering a new design for your kitchen, bath or any other storage spaces in your home, be sure to stop in to talk to the designers at Geneva Cabinet Company.

Visit our Inspiration Gallery here

And set up an appointment to visit with our designers by contacting our showroom here.

Photography by Josh Z

 

 

The pantry comes out of hiding and into the home’s spotlight.    It is one of the latest home spaces to get some well-deserved attention.  While space is the deciding factor for size, good design will ensure that you always have a place to hide the cookies.

Open Air Pantry

You would never guess that this kitchen extension houses the most generous storage within custom Plato Woodwork, Inc. cabinetry. No more cluttered countertops, everything has just the right spot for well-organized daily efficiency.

 

Show Off Storage

On the other hand, a dedicated pantry allows you to peruse stock easily.  You’ll never have to fumble around in the dark back corners of you cabinet when all is visible at a glance on spacious open shelving.  You can use built-ins, cabinetry with open shelving or even repurpose furniture to outfit the space.

Adjustable shelving is a bonus for maximizing space by fitting it to the perfect height to store canisters, baskets and appliances.

The Multipurpose Pantry

Be sure to take advantage of every nook and cranny in your home.  Often you can borrow space from another room to fit in organized storage.  Combine pantry area with your laundry, home office or mudroom for a highly efficient space.

 

Best Kept Secret Pantry

What looks like an beautiful but ordinary cabinet door is in fact the pass through to a splendid floor-to-ceiling pantry space.  We made this happen with custom cabinetry from Plato Woodwork, Inc and the fine construction team at Lowell Custom Homes.

 

Be Bold

We believe in treating small spaces with an element of surprise.  Let your fun side shine through with a bold pattern or colorful design.  Sorting groceries will be your feel-good moment of the day.

 

One Final Tip – Use Consistent Containers

A trip to The Container Store or your local hardware will help you make the most of your space with consistent container sizes.  Mix and match a few styles with the same shape so they will fit closely together to maximize your space.

 

Without a doubt, the pantry is having its day!  Generous storage for daily items and space for emergency surplus (like toilet paper) will never go out of style.  If you are considering a new design for your kitchen, pantry or any other storage spaces in your home, be sure to stop in to talk to the designers at Geneva Cabinet Company.

Visit our Inspiration Gallery here

And set up an appointment to visit with our designers by contacting our showroom here.

 

 

 

Photography by Shanna Wolf

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