Appliance Panels, Dress to Impress

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While stainless steel kitchens are sleek and modern, appliance panels are a stylish way to add warmth and character.

Kitchens continue to evolve and mold to our lifestyles.  They serve as an oasis, the go-to gathering spot for family and friends.  As designers, we love pairing an open floorplan with beautiful cabinetry for an inviting space that encourages mingling and relaxation.  Part of our secret is the use of wood panels, allowing appliances to effortlessly blend into the background.  This creates overall warmth while maintaining complete functionality with our quality cabinetry.

Hiding in Plain Sight

appliance panels in contrast finish as part of kitchen design

Plato Woodwork, Inc., Shanna Wolf Photography

Stainless Steel is an immensely popular finish in the kitchen.  While everyone loves the neutral look, it can overwhelm a space. Especially when using the newest commercial refrigeration systems.  Furniture quality wood panels will match or compliment the cabinet design and allow even the most generous stretch of appliances to blend in to the surroundings.

Cabinet appliance panels on plan and elevation

Cohesive Design

Kitchen design by Geneva Cabinet Company featuring Plato Woodwork, Inc. cabinetry

Plato Woodwork, Inc., Shanna Wolf Photography

As an extension of the family room, we want kitchens to nurture us with integrated design. By placing appliances in the background, the overall vibe is more versatile than kitchens from previous decades.

Refrigerator and freezer columns with wood appliance panels

Shiloh Cabinetry, Josh Z Photography

Noise Reduction

Shiloh Cabinetry Thermador dishwasher appliance panel

Shiloh Cabinetry, Shanna Wolf Photography

Decibel levels on appliances have improved over the years,  yet we can reduce noise further with the application of wood appliance panels.  They will help absorb vibrations for a more peaceful kitchen environment.

Elevated Protection

Beverage Bar Coffee Bar with glass panel refrigerator door and wood cabinet panel drawer dishwasher.

Shiloh Cabinetry, Josh Z Photography

Quality wood panels will protect your appliances with decades of durability. Even a high-traffic beverage bar can achieve an elegant appearance with easy-care cabinet finishes.

Explore our inspiration gallery and contact us for help bringing your home improvement vision to life!

 

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Maximize Your Kitchen Space and Storage

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Unleash your home’s full potential with design solutions to maximize your kitchen space and storage.  Whether your room is large or compact, the talented designers at Geneva Cabinet Company will bring efficiency to your day, while highlighting your personal style.

maximize your kitchen storage cabinetry by Plato Woodwork

Plato Woodwork, Inc., Designer Joyce Zuelke, ckbd, Josh Z Photography

Vertical Advantage

maximize your kitchen storage tips Plato Woodwork, Inc., Joyce Zuelke, ckbd, Josh Z Photography

Plato Woodwork, Inc., Joyce Zuelke, ckbd, Josh Z Photography

Take advantage of your kitchen’s height by installing cabinets that reach to the ceiling.  Often this space is ignored, so why not use it to your advantage with full height cabinetry to store seasonal tableware, serving pieces or even bulk paper goods.  We love the streamlined lift door for full access!

Pull-Out Possibilities

maximize kitchen storage with deep pull out storage

Plato Woodwork, Inc., Joyce Zuelke, ckbd, Josh Z Photography

Pull-out shelving units are convenient and perfect as a built-in pantry.  This storage solution can be customized to the width and size of your opening.

Space Efficiency

Double faucet sink for maximum efficiency

Galley Workstation, Joyce Zuelke, ckbd, Josh Z Photography

With a double faucet and wide, unobstructed sink base, a kitchen galley sink becomes the hub of productivity. Collaborate on tasks like washing produce or dishes, and enjoy the efficiency of two sets of hands working together.

Multipurpose Island

maximize kitchen storage with multifunctional island

Plato Woodwork, Inc., Joyce Zuelke, ckbd, Josh Z Photography

This multifunctional island combines storage, prep space, and dining functionality into one convenient unit. Its undercount drawers and cabinets, prep sink, and seating options make it a versatile addition to any kitchen.

Storage in Plain Sight

Plato Woodwork, Inc., Joyce Zuelke, ckbd, Josh Z Photography

Typically we think of hiding everything away in a cabinet, but using open shelving and countertop displays will create interactive moments with your most useful items.  Your favorite serving tray and utensils will be within reach when you’re ready to get down to the business of entertaining.

Plato Woodwork, Inc., Joyce Zuelke, ckbd, Josh Z Photography

The kitchen in this article features beautiful cabinetry from Plato Woodwork, Inc.   Geneva Cabienet Company represents the highest quality manufacturers and styles for a seamless one-stop design and remodeling experience.  Our talented team will guide you through every step of the process, ensuring that you maximize your kitchen space and storage.

Explore our inspiration gallery and contact us to schedule a consultation.

 

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Control Mudroom Clutter

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From beach towels to backpacks, we help you control mudroom clutter with storage to help the entire family get organized.  Given its humble beginnings, the mudroom is now an essential space charged with moving you in and out of the house efficiently.  No matter the size, we have cabinetry and design ideas for an attractive and organized launch pad.

First Impressions

Control Mudroom Clutter with style

Interior Design by North Shore Nest, Photo by Aimée Mazzenga

Even the smallest footprint deserves to be treated with orderly style. The designers at North Shore Nest elevate this informal entry with a blue and white scheme for a well-deserved mudroom appreciation moment.

Clutter Control Basics

control Mudroom clutter with hooks and seating

Geneva Cabinet Company, Photo by Shana Wolf

Plenty of sturdy hooks and a bench for pulling on shoes will get your design off to a good start.  From there,  add cubbies above or below the hooks to accommodate frequently used items like shoes, bags and keys.

Design for Durability

Control Mudroom Clutter with cabinetry designed for durability

Geneva Cabinet Company, Photo by Shanna Wolf

Durable and washable finishes are a must for this area.  It’s often the only barrier between outdoor debris and your lovely interior finishes.  Select easy to clean materials that are immune to seasonal wear and tear.  Tile and luxury vinyl plank flooring are popular choices in the mudroom.  For the walls consider a quality semi-gloss and be sure to select cabinetry or lockers with a resilient finish.

Incorporate Cabinetry

Control Mudroom Clutter with cabinets to incorporate storage

Geneva Cabinet Company, Photo Shanna Wolf

When space allows, cabinetry helps to control mudroom clutter with storage for sporting equipment, school supplies and a wide variety of footwear for all seasons.  Every household has unique priorities and cabinetry is sure to improve convenience.  Discuss home improvement possibilities with your Geneva Cabinet designer for storage solutions to accommodate every season.

Connect With Color

Geneva Cabinet Company, Photo by Shanna Wolf

A bold color will draw attention and highlight storage space.  There is no excuse for throwing coats in a pile when a dazzling storage center is in clear view.  A color cue will remind everyone of Benjamin Franklins wisdom,  “A place for everything, and everything in its place.”

Customize Your Storage

customize your mudroom storage space with bins and baskets

Geneva Cabinet Company, Photo by

Configure your mudroom with chic bins and baskets that will sort paraphernalia and fit neatly into cubbies.  Possibilities are easy to find with a browse through Targets Studio McGee Collection or Etsy.

Stretch Your Space

Control Mudroom Clutter by expanding your space with mudroom cabinetry to clear everyday clutter

Geneva Cabinet Company, Photo by Shanna Wolf

When the entry is compact, consider borrowing nearby space to satisfy storage needs.  We love the solution for this collection of thermal drinkware, naturally a priority for any lake home.

Combo Space

Control Mudroom Clutter by combining with laundry room

Geneva Cabinet Company, Photo Shanna Wolf

The mudroom and laundry area are a classic combination. This is ideal for tossing sandy beach towels or muddy sportswear right into the wash.  We share more of our favorite ideas in this Laundry Room Design Guide.

 

Visit our award winning Lake Geneva showroom for inspiration.

Contact us for an appointment with a design expert today!

 (262) 245-9600
info@genevacabinet.com

 

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Bath Remodeling Mistakes to Avoid

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Adding or remodeling a bath is an exciting investment in your home and we want to help you avoid the most common remodeling mistakes.  There will be endless decisions every step of the way, but with tips from our pros, you will achieve the style and function you need, without these common blunders.

Ignoring Scale

Shiloh Cabinetry, Shanna Wolf Photography

Bigger is not always better.  It’s important to evaluate your space and choose fixtures based on the proper scale.  Just because you can squeeze in a 9′ Jacuzzi, doesn’t mean that you should.

Treating the Toilet as a Literal Throne

New bathroom design don't focus on the toilet

Das Holz Haus Cabinetry, Josh Z Photography

The toilet is not an objet d’art.   Even with many beautiful modern designs, placing it discretely is the best approach for everyone’s comfort.  In the primary suite having a partition or separate compartment is highly desirable.

Bath remodeling mistakes to avoid the toilet location

Shiloh Cabinetry, Shanna Wolf Photography

For the standard bath, do your best to position the toilet away from the direct line of site upon entry.  Consider the view from outside of the bath to eliminate any awkward unexpected moments.

 

bathroom remodeling mistakes to avoid

 

Avoid Underestimating Storage Needs

avoid mistakes of underestimating storage needs

Plato Woodwork Cabinetry, Shanna Wolf Photograph

Be sure to include enough storage for all the things that will make you feel pampered.  Storage should be functional while personalizing the space for your routine.  Built-ins like this heated drawer offer the bonus of toasty warm towels.

Plato Woodwork Cabinetry, Shanna Wolf Photography

Not Being Flexible

Plato Woodwork Cabinetry, Shanna Wolf Photography

Think outside of the bathroom box and enlist adjacent areas for additional storage with room for luxuries, like a beverage/coffee station. Good design allows you to ease your way into the start of each day.

Ignoring Storage Opportunities

Best of houzz avoid the mistake of overlooking storage niches

Plato Woodwork Cabinetry, Bella Tile Lake Geneva, Shanna Wolf Photography

From the first year we posted this bathroom to our Houzz portfolio, it has been a repeat Best of Houzz award winner!  Some natural opportunities present themselves when designing a space, and our design professionals know how to make the most every inch.  In this bath, recessed areas surrounding the tub allow easy access to towels along with the display space for lovely porcelains to add character.

Limiting the Light

Bath Remodeling Mistakes to Avoid in lighting

Grothouse Countertop, Hafele Hardware, Marvin Windows, Shanna Wolf Photography

Natural lighting is everything in the bath.  However, it can be harsh and should be balanced with fixtures emitting softer more flattering illumination. This is especially important above vanities.

Overlooking Comfort Details

Bella Tile Lake Geneva, Shanna Wolf Photography

Steam shower technology, zero threshold shower construction and underfloor heating systems all contribute to the comfort and utility of your home.  Research and be aware of design innovations that will create a space to accommodate your abilities now, and in the future.

Trying to DIY

 

Hiring your brother-in-law, unless he works for GCC, may not be the best approach.  Work with those who know how to avoid bath remodeling mistakes while offering a complete project package. From design to installation, ever remodeling project requires endless decisions, measurements, and knowledge of construction codes. This is the value in hiring Geneva Cabinet Company professionals for successful results!

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

Contact us for an appointment today!

 (262) 245-9600
info@genevacabinet.com

 

 

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Signs It’s Time To Remodel Your Kitchen

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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

 

 

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