We can all agree that this is a perfectly nice kitchen.  But our homeowners were hoping to elevate their style while increasing storage and adding some much needed island seating.

Enter the talented kitchen and bath designer, Joyce Zuelke, ckd.  She created a more functional space with the addition of a redesigned island.  There is even a new Pinterest worthy coffee bar for good measure.  Along with updates to the lighting and some stunning ceiling detail, this kitchen takes on an entirely new character.

Geneva Cabinet Company kitchen with new island Plato Cabinetry

Kitchen Island Update

The original kitchen was created with cabinetry from Bea Industries in Elkhorn, Wi.  It had a user-friendly U-shape layout.  While stylish and open, our homeowner was looking for an improved kitchen island that would step-up the function of the space.

Cabinetry from Plato Woodwork, Inc. was selected in a deep stain which enhanced the natural wood grain.  This rich finish served as a distinct contrast to ground the bright white kitchen.

Geneva Cabinet Company Lake Geneva Wi kitchen island detail with extra seating Plato Woodwork cabinets

The island is topped with a lovely Cambria quartz countertop in the Ella pattern from their Marble Collection.  Subtle veining reflects the warm island stain while soft white connects to the surrounding cabinetry.  It works beautifully with the perimeter of granite countertops.

Geneva Cabinet Company Lake Geneva Wi island elevation with proper clearance

But it’s not just about having a gorgeous kitchen, the layout must be functional for a kitchen that is comfortable and convenient.  Notice the 48 ½” clearance between the island and the stove for safe usage when the oven door is open.  The close proximity to the island steam oven keeps the cooking zone tight and functional.

Geneva Cabinet Company Lake Geneva Wi kitchen island pull out shelves

The island also features the secret to great cabinet storage, easy access pull-out shelving.  They will keep everyday items visible and within reach to improve daily workflow.

Check out more of our Before and After transformations right here!

We encourage you to stop in to see us!  Our showroom features the freshest ideas in cabinetry for your entire home!

Geneva Cabinet Company, LLC

201 Geneva National Ave.S, Lake Geneva, WI

262-245-9600

 

Photography is by S.Photography Shanna Wolf

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Ahh, the Pros and Cons list.  An evaluation technique credited to Benjamin Franklin way back in 1772.  While it may have limitations for making decisions of the heart, it certainly comes in handy when comparing your options for countertops.     There are many attractive possibilities.   So, how do you choose the best countertop for your home?  Simple, just review our countertop Pros and Cons list and make your decision with confidence.    A word of caution, we are biased in the direction of beautiful!

Countertop Pros and Cons

 

Quartz Countertops

We begin with Quartz because it is easily the most popular countertop today.   It is often referred to as Engineered Quartz or Engineered Stone, and  frequently confused with Quartzite (more on that later).  The quartz mineral is fused with a combination of polymers, pigments and powdered or ground materials to form this extremely hard surface.

Pros

High Durability

Scratch & Stain Resistant

Bacteria Resistant

Easy to maintain

Non-Pourous ( will not absorb moisture)

Cons

Not as heat tolerant as Granite or Quartzite

 

Quartzite Countertops

This is the real deal.  Quartzite is a naturally-occurring metamorphic stone and each slab will have the unique quality which is inherent to all natural stone surfaces.  Quartz crystals formed from sandstone were fused together by nature  millions of years ago.   The super strong statement material is one that we have come to love and appreciate,  especially for kitchen islands.

Pros

High Durability (harder than Granite and Quartz)

Scratch & Stain Resistant

Easy to maintain

Cons

This natural stone must be sealed

 

Granite Countertops

Granite is extremely durable and rarely scratches or chips.  Every slab will have a visual quality characteristic to the region of origin. It is a porous surface that can come pre-sealed or should be sealed yearly.

Pros

High Durability

Heat Resistant

Scratch & Stain Resistant

Easy to maintain

Cons

This natural stone must be sealed and may require resealing

Could be susceptible to staining from oils, citrus and alcohol

Extreme hardness may cause breakage if something is dropped on it

 

Marble Countertops

The ultimate choice for classic luxury.   It is a softer stone known for the rich patina developed over time.  Marble stands up to heat but is susceptible to staining.  The consistently smooth and cool nature performs perfectly as a pastry surface.

Pros

Will withstand some heat

Resistant to chips and dents

Smoothest surface – Ideal for pastry preparation

Develops a lovely patina

Cons

The porous surface may be susceptible to scratches or staining from acidic liquids

Sealing will need to be maintained

 

Solid Surface

Here we have your Corian, and other brands that started the solid surface countertop revolution.  A wonderful variety of color and pattern is constantly evolving and improving.   The molded construction allows it to take on many shapes and accommodate an undermount or integral sink.

Pros

Durable

Resistant to mildew, bacteria and stains

Seamlessly accommodates integral sinks

Easy to maintain

Repairs are possible

Non-Pourous (will not absorb moisture)

Cons

Heat sensitive

Possibility of scratching

 

Glass Countertops

Glass countertops are a unique combination of function and art for a modern statement in the kitchen or bar area.  Custom designs will elevate your style with an open suspended quality.  The material can be translucent, colorful or texturized to create special effects like you will see from our friends at  Studio L Glassworks

Pros

Moderate Durability

Heat Resistant

Stain Resistent

Resists Bacteria – Extremely safe for foods

Cons

Susceptible to scratching or chiping

 

Stainless Steel Countertops

Add a Top Chef quality to any kitchen with the visual punch of stainless steel countertops.  Super hygienic and durable, these countertops can be integrated with stainless steel sinks and backsplashes for a seamless professional look.

Pros

High durability

Heat Resistant

Germ Resistant

Easy to Maintenance

Will not stain

Cons

Susceptible to scratches-but they can be polished out

 

Soapstone Countertops

Your science class lab table is reborn!  The sophistication of this natural stone is an up-and-coming look for modern and classic styles at home.  The color ranges from light to dark gray.  Like marble, the developing patina accounts for much of it’s appeal to the organically inclined.

Pros

Heat Resistant

Food Safe

Stain resistant

Develops a stunning patina

Cons

Occasionally require treatment to seal and maintain appearance

Slabs are smaller and may require seaming

Wood Countertops

The allure of natural products is growing in popularity, especially when it comes to wood countertops. We specialize in natural wood countertops from Grothouse Lumber because they excel in beautiful construction with a wide variety of wood species.

Pros

Moderate durability

Natural Luxurious Appearance

Warm Appearance and Tactile Quality

Develops a warm patina

May be re-surfaced to restore appearance

Cons

Low heat resistance

Maintenance is needed

Should be sealed with a food safe sealer

 

Mixing and matching is an option that we whole-heartily support!  What better way to pair your favorite looks with the perfect functional application.   This will help you create a style all your own!

Do we have a clear favorite?  Actually, no.

Because it all depends on how the countertop will be used and where it will be installed.  It is one of the details that we love to address when designing the cabinetry for your home.

It is also the reason we have so many different countertops featured in vignettes around our showroom.  Here you can touch and feel the different options in materials to see how they look with various cabinet styles.  You will experience first hand the beautiful colors and patterns offered by each of the brands we feature.

The countertops you choose will add the final style statement to your overall design!

Stop in to see us!  We have great ideas for your home!

Geneva Cabinet Company, LLC

201 Geneva National Ave.S, Lake Geneva, WI

262-245-9600

 

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