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  Appliances are outdated

Outdated appliances will be inefficient, unreliable and even post a safety hazard.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

 

 

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

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.

 

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

 

A kitchen is never just about cooking.  Yet when a love for cooking combines with the great desire for comfort, a fresh kitchen concept is born. The kitchen is naturally the heart of any home.  Adding the seamless integration of lifestyle and architecture is the secret to creating an engaging space.

Before and After

A new design brings opportunities for greatness.  The spacious room with beautiful views was a good start.  However a central fireplace limited the natural flow of activity.  Removing the fireplace and borrowing space from the mudroom was a game changer.  Essential to the new plan is an inviting island with generous space for storage, meal prep, gatherings and dining.

Next Best Thing to a Sofa

Centerstage a supersized island-banquette offers true comfort.  Dining options include counter height seating on two sides as well as space to stretch out on upholstered lounge seating constructed by V Upholstery

Business in the Back

While the exposed side of the kitchen is all about comfort,  the interior of the island faces a run of cabinetry and cook space that is all business.  From the luxury range to double dishwashers, this prep area will accommodate team cooking efforts with ease.

The homeowner’s existing John Boos & Co butcher block table finds a built-in position for the serious chef business of cutting and chopping.  Throughout this kitchen we feature Shiloh Cabinetry in contrasting stain and painted finishes.

Hidden Secrets Revealed

But some of the best features in this kitchen are cleverly disguised.  Gliding doors are concealed within the full height Cambria backsplash constructed by Old World Stone where the homeowner can neatly collect a secret stash of spices.

And integrated into the countertop are “Chameleon” pop up outlets from S-Box. You only see them when you need them.

Accessible Storage for Clutter Free Space

In keeping with the focus on the view, this kitchen features countless storage options easy to access to help the space remain clutter-free throughout the day.  Countertop appliances are nesting together behind a cabinet door with glide up lift system for added convenience.

A coffee and snack bar is well situated in a special niche between the living room and kitchen for morning or mid day pick-me-ups.

For more inspiration visit our Gallery here

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

 

Kitchen Design by Joyce Zuelke, ckd

Cabinetry from Shiloh Cabinetry

Photography by Josh Z Photography

Last week in Orlando the Kitchen and Bath Industry Show was buzzing with new products and ideas for the kitchen, bath and beyond.  Our Geneva Cabinet team returned inspired and ready to enhance upcoming projects with the freshest ideas. We have been featuring our favorite innovative products on social media since attending the show. Now we are ready to simmer it down to the key trends that will impact kitchen & bath design for the future.

Kitchen Products Around the House

Thanks to under counter refrigeration and panel ready appliances, kitchen convenience is moving throughout the home.  True refrigeration introduced a lively palette that will easily disguise or complement appliances used in any room.  Their LED shelf lighting is a brilliant way of bringing ease and accessibility to storage in every room.  Think master suite, guest room, game room, and family rooms with cleverly disguised beverage and snack stations.

Living In Color

The “Bold Ambition” kitchen featured Cafe, pairing deep hued appliances with brilliant emerald-toned tile and a lime striped flooring.  It’s a refreshing venture away from the neutral kitchen. If ever there was a time for color confidence, today’s products can make it happen.

Many show stopping displays were infused with color.  It is all a matter of training the eye.  We have become accustomed to neutral palettes, but with exposure to these new lively products, our hearts are calling out for the energy of color.

If It’s Good Enough for Gwyneth . . .

A featured discussion with Monogram Appliances and Gwyneth Paltrow focused on the importance of the kitchen. “The focal point of our household is always the kitchen. It’s where I cook weekend brunches for our extended, modern family and where we catch up with our kids after a long day,” said Paltrow. “With Monogram, we found a kitchen that’s both a workhorse and beautiful. It fits seamlessly into the aesthetic of our home.”  So hop up on your countertop and enjoy!

Surround Yourself with Wellness

Sustainability wins with the introduction of ground breaking surfaces and production methods.  Cosentino spent years of R & D to produce 100% of their Silestone products with  “HybriQ technology”  This means production processes are sustainable, using renewable electric energy, 99% reused water and recycled ingredients.  The process itself doesn’t result in particle emissions or water discharge. And the resulting surfaces are beautiful and ready to be creatively constructed for a variety of uses!

And speaking of wellness, how does a SuperPaint with Air-Purifying Technology sound?  It is really a thing and brought to us by Sherwin Williams with the Living Well collection.  Its sanitizing technology actually breaks down VOCs and odors emitted from fabrics and carpets and can even mitigate certain strains of bacteria.

 

Creativity with Quartz

Cambria has always been one of our favorites and this show highlighted its versatility and beauty.  From a luxurious ping-pong table to backlight wallscapes, we found the latest patterns for these surfaces to be absolutely lovely!

There was so much to see and do throughout the show!  We will continue to feature our latest discoveries in upcoming Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn posts!

And finally a quick hello from the entire “boots on the ground” team at GCC!

 

 

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