Kitchen Design with Style & Storage

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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.

 

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Sorting Out Laundry Room Design

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Your laundry room design can save time and lighten your load!

Do you like keep up with laundry daily or dedicate one time per week to conquer this challenge?

The answer to this and other key factors will influence the design.

  • How many people live in your home?
  • Is anyone or everyone involved in fitness or sports?
  • Does everyone at home have enough basics to get through the week?
  • Do allergies or sensitivities require special laundry handling?
  • Is most clothing “easy-care” or “handle-with-care”?

This information will help your Geneva Cabinet designer guide you to the right solutions.

  For details about where to locate your laundry room and how large it should be, check our past blog.  But for now, let’s take a look at the latest pick-me-ups for wash day.

Make Functional Fabulous

Inspire your day with a perky laundry room

Plato Woodwork, Lowell Custom Homes, Shanna Wolf Photography

In the past, the laundry was consigned to the basement or squeezed into the mudroom.  We prefer a fresh approach that will place a positive spin on the task.   Since laundry is inevitable, why not make the task more pleasant?  Go from functional to fabulous by adding color and pattern to your space.  Easy-to-clean wallcovering is the perfect backdrop for durable cabinetry.

laundry room trends

Kippps Bay Showhouse, Designer David Fazier, Staff Photo

This year the Kipps Bay Showhouse flooded the laundry room with a matching pattern for wallcovering and fabric.  The cafe style curtain hides washer, dryer and sorting bins behind a classic acanthus pattern from Sloan.

Laundry Room Multitasking

Hybrid laundry rooms

Woodmode, Lowell Custom Homes, Elizabeth Drake Interior Design, Victoria McHugh Photography

Laundry space is the ideal place for multitasking.  This is a natural for built in flexibility.   The sink can be used to presoak and rinse clothes, as well as potting plants or cleaning art supplies.   Cabinetry will conceal laundry while providing space for games and craft supplies.  A home office, art studio, or craft station would all be compatible, with plenty of shared counter space.

Laundry Innovations

Fall in love with a 2-in-1 Washer/Dryer from the GE Profile collection.  This new generation of appliances offers space saving convenience, energy savings, a smart dispenser to hold enough detergent and softener for up to 32 loads, and antimicrobial technology.  Especially notable is the HQ app to keep you appliance software updated.

Learn more about this new technology here.

Compact Second Laundry

second story laundry

Das Holz Haus Cabinetry, Lowell Custom Homes, North Shore Nest Interior Design, Photo by Aimee Mazzenga

Adding a second laundry room, right where the messiness happens, is a real time saver. Popular spots include the Primary Bath, Second Floor Bedroom Hallway, and Pool Bath.  This feature is growing in popularity.  Processing laundry in the same zone eliminates the extra step of carting it around, while conserving personal energy.

plans for laundry

Storage Features

For a weekly laundry schedule, concealed storage is the key to organization.  The addition of a drip dry rod and pull-out hampers will keep the room streamline and clutter free.

Drip Dry Rod, Pull-out Laundry Bin

Shiloh Cabinets, Josh Z Photography – Plato Woodwork, Shanna Wolf Photography

Open Shelving is designed for easy access.  It’s the perfect fit for a daily laundry habit.

Quality Lighting, Open ShelvingPlato Woodwork Cabinetry, Lowell Custom Homes, Shanna Wolf Photography – Lowell Custom Homes, Staff Photo

Countertops & Laundry Sinks

Laundry Sink

Medallion Cabinets, Josh Z Photography

Gone are the days when utility sinks on stilts were the standard.  In today’s modern laundry room, ergonomics wins.  A sink built into the cabinet is good for pre-washing and stain fighting without a deep back bend.  The cabinet base naturally improves storage and increases counter space for folding. For an extra bonus, choose a sink as beautiful as this hammer copper!

Pet Stations

laundry room sink and dog wash

For those with furry friends, adding a pet washing station is a nice fit for a spacious laundry room.  This large basin can also be used for cleaning outdoor equipment and muddy boots as well as pets.  Tile walls will wipe down easily after the final shimmy and shake dry.

Visit our Laundry Room Gallery to make a list of your favorite ideas.

Then Contact Us Here!

 

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Kitchen Range Hoods Make a Statement

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Kitchen range hoods are not only practical, they are a valuable opportunity to make a statement in the kitchen!

A quality range hood is essential to any hardworking kitchen.   It performs several helpful tasks.

  • Insures proper ventilation
  • Traps grease to divert from cabinet and floor surfaces
  • Removes unpleasant odors
  • Reduces levels of smoke and steam
  • Creates a focal point in the kitchen

It’s important to determine the CFM (cubic feet per minute) required to move air based on your kitchen size and design.  Fortunately the designers at Geneva Cabinet are experts and will help with functional recommendations for this and all appliances.

Selecting a Range Hood Style

Once that is accomplished, the search is on for a style to suite you.  Keep it low key or create a showstopping moment, the choice is yours!

Downdraft Hoods

downdraft range hood by GE

GE Downdraft Range Hood, Medallion Cabinetry, Photo by Shanna Wolf 

A downdraft range hood provides circulation completely under the radar. This solution also removes distractions from the open and airy view and the beautiful cabinetry. 

 

Modern Minimalist

Zephyr Range Hood, Bella Tile & Stone, Staff Photo

Zephyr Range Hood, Bella Tile & Stone, Staff Photo

A classic chimney hood will fit most installations.  This powerhouse from Zephyr can be controlled seamlessly through the Zephyr Connect App for voice activation through Amazon Alexa or Google Home.  Very helpful when your hands are busy with the task at hand.

Wooden Hoods

Wood range hood to match cabinetry

Custom Wood Range Hood, Shiloh Cabinetry, Photo by Shanna Wolf

A custom hood from Shiloh Cabinetry integrates seamlessly into the kitchen layout.

Wood range hood Farmhouse style

Farmhouse Wood Range Hood, Shiloh Cabinetry, Photo by Shanna Wolf

Customization allows horizontal bead board to be used with contrasting Alder for a modern farmhouse effect.

Wood kitchen range hood traditional

Custom Wood Range Hood, Plato Woodwork Cabinetry, Photo by Shanna Wolf

Plato Woodwork  adds curves and an arched apron to embrace a European attitude.

Precious Metal Hoods

It’s all about artistry for metal range hoods.  These luxury pieces stand out with unique finishes and special hand worked details.

Raw Urth naval brass custom patina

Raw Urth Naval Brass, Medallion Cabinets, Photo by Shanna Wolf

Known for customized patina, Raw Urth creates distinctive range hoods with one artisan taking charge of each masterpiece from start to finish.

Raw Urth Range Hood, Shiloh Cabinetry, Photo by Shanna Wolf

Raw Urth Range Hood, Shiloh Cabinetry, Photo by Shanna Wolf

The appeal of mixed metals is demonstrated above with contrast brass banding to highlight the shapely contours of the burnished stainless steel base.

Custom Metal Hood, Plato Cabinetry, Photo by Shanna Wolf

Custom Metal Hood, Plato Cabinetry, Photo by Shanna Wolf

This range hood has powerful lines and contrast banding for a bold modern statement.

LaBastille Pewter Range Hood, Plato Cabinetry, Photo by Josh Z Photography

La Bastille Pewter Range Hood, Plato Cabinetry, Photo by Josh Z Photography

A pewter range hood from La Bastille features a hammered visual finish with rivet details, earning it a prominent position in this kitchens scheme.

La Bastille Metal Hood, Shiloh Cabinetry, Photo by Shanna Wolf

La Bastille Metal Hood, Shiloh Cabinetry, Photo by Shanna Wolf

Strong lines and a weathered zinc finish pair boldly with riveted texture in another creation by La Bastille.

Industrial Stainless Steel Hood, Plato Woodwork Cabinetry, Staff Photo

Industrial Stainless Steel Hood, Plato Woodwork Cabinetry, Staff Photo

The advantage of custom fabrication of a range hood is clear with this beauty that spans a full 92″ width to cover working countertops and range.

Custom Hood in Raindrop, Plato Woodwork Cabinetry, Photo by Shanna Wolf

Custom Hood in Raindrop, Plato Woodwork Cabinetry, Photo by Shanna Wolf

Our final example shows how to add a pop of color in the most unexpected way!  This stunning range hood makes a statement as it beautifully reflects the custom color of the kitchen island.

For more inspiration visit the innovative designs shared in our gallery.

Then let us help you get started on the kitchen of your dreams!

 

Shanna Wolf Photography

Josh Z Photography

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Outdoor Kitchen Perks

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

 

 

 

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Home Renovations Beyond Cabinetry

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A space may be charming, but not living up to its full potential.  That’s when the experts at Geneva Cabinets Company work their magic.  Your home renovations will go beyond cabinetry when you look to Geneva Cabinets for a one-stop-shopping experience.

Before and after home renovations by Geneva Cabinet Company

It’s about more than replacing cabinetry.  Geneva Cabinets wants you to have an entire space that is beautiful and flows seamlessly from room to room.  New kitchen cabinets certainly improved the outlook for this kitchen, while our designers take it a step further reimagining the entire home.

 

Address the Space

When it comes to this home’s renovation, relocating the bath was a key decision.

home renovations in kitchen and moving bath to enlarge spaces

Once the kitchen was open and spacious, the rest of the home was ready for a refresh.  This included lifting the ceiling, new windows, flooring, and lighting.    The kitchen roofline was raised into a gable adding visual space along with a series of sunny skylights.

enlarged kitchen space and raised ceiling

New wood flooring extents throughout the home along with special ceiling treatments, updated woodworking, and lighting.

home renovations with new cabinetry in kitchen

The cabinetry is custom from Plato Woodwork Inc.   Perimeter cabinetry is painted in timeless Essential White with an island in Blue Nose from Benjamin Moore .  Hardware from Schaub in Satin Brass is a nod to Lake Geneva’s nautical perspective.

island with undercounted refrigerator and microwave drawer

In addition to being a fabulous workspace, this island is a natural gathering point with undercounted refrigerator, microwave drawer and plenty of storage.  The exaggerated thickness in the island’s Cambria countertop is our latest obsession.  It is such a modern statement that exudes luxury.

Beyond the Kitchen

home renovation include new flooring in the living room

A impressive part of this home renovation is the new flooring flowing into the living room, where molding details and hearth also receive an upgrade.

living room renovation by Geneva Cabinet

Guest Bedroom and Bath

enlarged guest bedroom

The guest bedroom now feels open and airy while the relocated bath features a bright modern attitude.

guest bath renovation

Entry Hall

Upgrading the entry as part of the home renovation offers visitors a preview of the new sunny disposition.

entry hall remodel

. . . with a little added surprise

two way closet

Sometimes it’s the little things that make you smile. A guest bedroom doesn’t really need a dedicated closet, so some clever shared storage is included.  Contents are accessible from the entry hall or the guest room!

Attention to Detail

attention to detail

As with every kitchen and bath installation, the team at Geneva Cabinet attends to the little details.  The new wood floor deserves a perfectly set in air vent that blends visually without obstruction to the path of circulation.

For a seamless home renovation experience, start in our Lake Geneva showroom.  It’s bursting with inspirational product displays and a friendly team to guide you from design to installation.

Photography Shanna Wolf

Cabinetry Plato Woodwork, Inc.

Tile Bella Tile Lake Geneva

 

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Kitchen & Bath Trends

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Every year the Kitchen & Bath Industry exhibits trends and product innovations from around the world.  Our team of experts in design and construction returned from the show ready to share the latest ideas and state-of-the-art products.

Color is Making a Comeback

This year held a complete surprise after years of neutrals dominating the kitchen and bath industry. Kohler celebrated their 150 year anniversary with a display of historic color fixtures and the opportunity to vote for favorites.

Over 100,000 votes were cast for Peachblow which was originally circulated  between 1934 to 1973.  The runner up was Spring Green originally available between 1927 and 1944.  Both will be available this spring in limited collections.

If you prefer a more classic approach, you’ll love the colors inspired by fascinating world destinations.   A collaboration between Conde Nast Travel and House of Rohl Victoria + Albert Collection presents a beautifully curated palette allowing you to customize the design of your personal escape.

 

Finishes Make Headlines

 

There is life beyond Brushed Nickel!  We spotted new colorful fixtures around the show with a fresh batch of options for kitchen and bath fixtures and hardware.  This is especially exciting because now simply updating faucets and hardware can give you a fresh look.  Mat finishes are trending, especially in black.  This blends easily with styles from modern to farmhouse.  Vessel sinks are inspired by precious metals and Murano glass for an artistic touch to any bath.

The Kitchen Workstation Reigns

Options are everything and the kitchen workstation concept is growing in popularity.  This takes the kitchen sink beyond wash-up to a convenient food prep station.  The Galley Workstation  has expanded their accessory line while several new companies are joining the field.  Now you are truly able to streamline your kitchen experience.

Induction Cooktops

Aside from advanced cooking technology, this new induction cooktop from Monogram Appliances features a design friendly color with sleek swipe controls.  Induction cooks from a magnetic field and can boil water in half the time as a conventional cooktop.  These units are beautifully energy efficient.  There is also a safety advantage since it will not heat up without a pot on the element.  The surface never gets hot enough to the touch for an accidental burn. This is a real plus households with children.  As for the negatives, this is a different type of cooking that may not blend with your style.  Switching from gas to electric will be an expense and you may also need to invest in induction compatible cookware.

The Shower Experience

Innovative shower systems will turn the bathroom niche into a luxurious escape.  Shower heads from Brizo deliver water patterns that vary from invigorating to gentle mist.  Add a linear wall drain that easily blends into your floor and wall tile pattern.

Integrated Lighting

Advanced lighting systems make it possible to integrate lighting into every area of the home, even the shower.  Task, mood and general lighting are offered in versatile LED systems that can even be installed with motion sensors.

Advanced Technology

The Technology Pavilion at KBIS 2023 was a favorite stop where visitors experienced the future look for our homes.  Here,  brands exhibited their latest innovations and smart home solutions.  Compact speed ovens, temperature controlled wine storage and built-in coffee makers all add up to everyday ease.

For all of the latest news and innovative products, visit our Lake Geneva Showroom and talk to our team of experts!

We are happy to set up an appointment to discuss all of your personal home design needs, just contact us here.

 

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