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!

 

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

 

 

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.

 

Geneva Lake, WI is the backdrop for this delightful kitchen designed for gatherings large and small.  Care was taken by North Shore Nest interior designers to capture the community’s lake front charm.   This home is classic, fun loving and effortlessly functional.  The kitchen features our furniture quality cabinetry by Das Holz Haus.  Photography by Aimée Mazzenga

Heart of the Home

Kitchen Designed for Gathering Photo by Aimee Mazzenga

It all started with a home constructed by luxury builder, Lowell Custom Homes.  The bright and sunny kitchen is open to a casually chic living room and dining area.  Unrestricted circulation allows this kitchen to truly function as the heart of the home.

Island Life

Kitchen Islands Kitchen Designed for Gathering Photo by Aimee Mazzenga

These are not your typical kitchen islands.  They are large enough to gather around with expansive counter space for cooking, casual dining, homework, or game night.  Each island has clever storage built in. The business side accommodates twin apron sinks, microwave drawer, warming drawer, two dishwashers, waste pullouts, and compactor. There is a grand total of 18 drawers for easy access and compartmentalized storage.  Cookware, plates, barware, games, all sorted and placed at your fingertips.

And When Cooking is Your Love Language

Kitchen range and hood in a Kitchen Designed for Gathering Photo by Aimee Mazzenga

Cooking space is the key to all good kitchen design and this Lacanche range is the perfect centerpiece. The range, known for superior performance, arrived from the Burgundy countryside in France.  This work of art has a French Blue finish accented with brass trim.

Full height blue and white patterned tile defines the food preparation area.  A sophisticated blend of brass and nickel appears throughout the kitchen for hardware, lighting, and trim, all inspired by the range.

Integrated Storage

Kitchen Designed for Gathering cabinet elevation

 

Our favorite storage solution is a clever seven-foot wall of cabinetry.  The distinguished quality of  Das Holz Haus beautifully integrates a 30″ SubZero refrigerator, multiple refrigerator drawers, Miele Coffee System, and full height pantry.

floor to ceiling storage in a Kitchen Designed for Gathering Photo by Aimee MazzengaRefrigerator drawers are concealed in the base and glass display cabinets above create a stunning and practical serving buffet.

Kitchen Designed for Gathering Photo by Aimee MazzengaThe outer island is a peaceful place to start each day as well as the perfect gathering spot when hosting.

 

At Geneva Cabinet we are happy to work with your personal interior designers or sub-contractors.  When you are starting from square one, our experienced design and installation team is ready to guide you every step of the way.

 Call us! We would love to help you create the ideal space.

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

The skillful pairing of bathroom vanity and mirror can take your room from basic to beautiful.   We help you narrow down the options with these stunning examples of complementary selections.  They all strike a perfect balance between function, proportion, and style.

Circle Gets the Square

Shiloh Cabinetry/Shanna Wolf Photography

An inconvenient window turns into a surprising backdrop for a suspended round mirror.  As a bonus, the window provides natural backlighting every time you take a peek at your reflection. The crisp blue and white scheme with navy vanity anchors it all with charm.

Timeless Classic

Designer North Shore Nest/Custom Cabinetry/Staff Photo

Keeping it timeless often translates to traditional design.  Here a spacious double vanity is accented by rectangular mirrors with inverted corners for just enough detail to make a statement.

Modern Moment

Designer Elizabeth Drake/Wood Mode Cabinetry/Victoria McHugh Photography

Clean modern lines are the refined choice in this primary bath vanity and mirror.  Notice how the exquisite tile from Ann Sacks can then take center stage.

Nature’s Calling

Designer Elizabeth Drake/Custom Cabinetry/Victoria McHugh Photography

Deep woods serenity is expressed with a richly stained vanity and dusky paneling.  Woodland wallcovering and an impressive birch framed mirror are perfect companions.

Tight and Tidy

Designer Joyce Zuelke/Eclipse Cabinetry by Shiloh/Shanna Wold Photography

Not an inch goes to waste in this compact bath.  Flat panel cabinet doors display the natural wood grain while the full backsplash mirror expands the niche.  Sconce lighting is mounted directly to the mirror to save space and reflect even more light.

Spanish Colonial

Designer Judy Bethel/James Martin Vanity/Shanna Wolf Photography

When more is more.  Old world details anchor the vanity and are replicated in the carved mirror for perfect balance.

Modern Geometry

Designer Joyce Zuelke/James Martin Vanity/Josh Zuelke Photography

Repetition is a favorite designer secret for a cohesive statement in any room.  Here the circle is bisected and then directly repeated in the mirror with a subtle echo by light fixtures.

French Country

Designer Judy Bethel/Plato Woodwork Cabinetry/Shanna Wolf Photography

The French styled vanity with acanthus carving is paired with a mirror that reflects Parisian elegance in its silver embossed frame.

Modern Nautical

Designer North Shore Nest/Custom Cabinet/Staff Photo

A campaign inspired chest is ideal for this bath with a nautical theme.  Blue and white cabana striped wallcovering offers a bold background for the refined carved rope mirror.

Artistic Expression

Plato Woodwork Cabinet/Shanna Wolf Photography

When the mirror is a one-of-a-kind Murano Glass art piece, the vanity should play a supporting role.  Here classic traditional cabinetry is the perfect fit.

Industrial Vibe

Native Trails Vanity/Aaron Gottschalk Photography

A hammered copper trough sink inhabits this vanity to deliver a modern industrial mood.  Gliding mirrors on barn door hardware top it off with a clever practical solution.

When All Else Fails

Shiloh Cabinetry/Shanna Wolf Photography

When you just can’t find the right mirror, we have a solution.   Mount a flat mirror to the wall and trim it out with a wood frame.   Or, as in this case, use an interesting backsplash tile like this one from  Bella Tile and Stone.

 

For more inspiration visit our Gallery here

And set up an appointment to discuss your personal home design needs by contacting our showroom here.

 

Shanna Wolf Photography

Josh Zuelke Photography

Aaron Gottschalk Photography

 

Geneva Cabinet Company Awarded Best of Houzz 2022

 2022 people’s choice award highlights top home professionals among the Houzz community.  It is based on quality service and the most popular designs!

Geneva Cabinet Company of Lake Geneva Wisconsin won a “Best of Houzz” award for Design on Houzz®.  This is the leading platform for home remodeling and design. Our design centric cabinet company was chosen by millions of homeowners that comprise the Houzz community from among more than 2.7 million active home building, remodeling and design industry professionals.

This is the 10 year anniversary of the Best of Houzz program.   Geneva Cabinet has been awarded badges annually in Design and Customer Service since the very beginning.   The design award honors professionals whose work was the most popular among the Houzz community.

The entire team at Geneva Cabinet Company is honored by this special recognition. Only the top 3.5 – 4% of professionals around the world are named as the Best of Houzz. We always strive to create beautiful and functional designs for our customers.  Being awarded with this badge on such a reputable platform is a bonus!

The Geneva Cabinet Company “Best of Houzz 2022” badges appear on our Houzz profile as a sign of our commitment to excellence.  More than 65 million homeowners and home design enthusiasts on Houzz are helped when they identify popular and top-rated home professionals for their projects.

Join us on Houzz or view our inspiration gallery for personal home improvement projects.  We are here and happy to help!

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