Posts

Out With the Island, In With the Fun!

, , ,

The idea of losing a kitchen island might be disappointing for some people, but our homeowner was actually reenergized by the open space!

Remodeling this 1990’s kitchen was the finishing touch for a lake house renovation. While the original layout worked, the redesign by Joyce Zuelke, ckd created a fresh and seamlessly efficient design.

This kitchen proves that an island is not the solution to every kitchen remodel. The redesign created an open floor that improved circulation in this bustling center of family activity.  We were even able to hold renovation costs down by not moving the plumbing and electrical.

Removing the tiny island opened the kitchen up to receive a whole new look from Shiloh Cabinetry.

Scooching the refrigerator over provided space for a full height pantry.

We included roll out shelving for improved organization and accessibility.

Placing the microwave under the counter means clear counter space.  It minimizes visual clutter at eye level and also lets everyone enjoy the beautiful flowing Brittanica pattern on the Cambria quartz countertop.

Lighting was a priority.  It was greatly improved by adding a stylish wall mounted fixture above the sink and replacing the ceiling fan light with seven recessed cans.

The new peninsula added even more counter space with two stools for casual dining or conversation.  Adding the display cabinet above with glass doors allows our homeowner to feature her colorful collection of tableware.

Centering the range balances this kitchen perfectly and improves workspace on each side.

The slim hardware pulls in Brushed Nickel are from Schaub.

We’ve tucked extra storage into every corner of this kitchen, even under the peninsula overhang, it works well for storing small appliances.

 

What better endorsement for a remodel is there than the words of our lovely homeowner,

“Our two daughters and their families love the dramatic change.  I had become disinterested in cooking and baking, and now I want to spend my time doing just that for company and when our five grandsons, ages 4 to 10 visit.  Loving our kitchen!

Just call us when you need cabinetry inspiration for every room of your home.  Our team is always ready to help!

201 Geneva National Ave S

Lake Geneva, WI

262-245-9600

 

/0 Comments/by

Nagging Little Questions About Your Kitchen Remodel

, ,

A kitchen remodel can be daunting, but not when you’re prepared.  Before you even begin there will be questions swimming around in your head.  That’s where our designers play an essential role as they guide you through the process and create a design that speaks to your specific needs.    Consider these frequently asked questions in advance for a worry-free kitchen remodel.

 

Must I Follow Every Code?

Yes, you must follow the codes, no shortcuts.  Any good contractor, like these guys,  can help.  They know the Universal Building Code, local building codes and permit requirements.  This is where the expertise at Geneva Cabinet Company is priceless.  Many DIY projects are revealed as disaster zones once a qualified contractor gets involved.  Save your sanity and the safety of your family by letting us guide you from the very beginning.  For more information about the design process click here.

 

Should I Use Cabinet Doors or Drawers?

The ideal choice will be user-friendly for your at-home habits.  Lately we have seen a shift to include lower cabinet drawers over cabinet doors.  This is an ergonomic revelation that will save your back and knees when rummaging through cabinet storage.   Drawers have a way of naturally organizing the contents while keeping them easily accessible.  As a backup plan, you can also retrofit the cabinet box with pull out shelving like this.

What type of hardware should I use?

Knobs or pulls?  Centered or on the edge?  Does it matter?  Well, yes.  The hardware placement will impact the look and balance of your entire room.   Care should be taken to make these decisions before the drilling starts.  Our designers will make recommendations based on the cabinet style and usage in your home.  It is all about the visual and functional design as well as the feel you are accustomed to.  Pulls are great when the contents is weighted and you need more leverage.  Knob will usually yield a cost savings and are easier to install.  Keep in mind that a push latch is great for a modern easy-to-clean look.

Where do I stop the backsplash tile?

We’re not gonna lie, this can be a real brain teaser.  That is why we design every kitchen layout with the end in mind.  The start and stop edges of your upper and lower cabinets is intentional.  Proper alignment during the design phase will give a clear indication of the area backsplash tile should cover.   Ideally it should line up perfectly with the end of the cabinets.  When cabinets can not line up architecturally, then a full wall of tile is preferred.

Should I Have a Walk-in Pantry or Pantry Cabinet?

One look at this efficient design will answer that question.  The walk in pantry is a well-lit luxury with easy accessibility.  When not possible we have several options for pantry cabinets that will fit the bill.

How do I choose a countertop edge?

Check out countertop material selections here to select the best performance for your home.  This decision will lead you to appropriate options for edge profiles.  The eased or square edge is ideal in its simplicity with the ability to let other kitchen details stand out.  The Beveled or Ogee edges are classic touches leaning towards a traditional or transitional design.  A bullnose features a smooth edge that avoids sharp corners.  Some edges will visually add bulk or work better on thicker countertops.  And if you’re lucky enough to feature a wood countertop in your home, an edge with a furniture feel will complete the look.

 

Can I mix metals and finishes?

You not only can, but you should!  Becoming a mix master will bring an extra degree of personality to your home.  Read about the beginnings of the trend for metallics and mixing metals here. Start to make your statement by considering the finishes that already exist in your kitchen and where you would like to take them.  This is an effortless way to add dimension and life to your design.  Start with your dominant metal (perhaps the stainless refrigerator) and then layer with a complimentary finish like this bronze.

We believe that every question asked will move you further along the path to a perfect kitchen design!

Our showroom is under renovation so we can bring you the latest products and ideas for your kitchen and bath!  Until we open up we invite you to explore our beautifully designed cabinetry here!

And call us when you need inspiration for storage in every room of your home!

201 Geneva National Ave S

Lake Geneva, WI

262-245-9600

 

/0 Comments/by

Working From Home Best Practices

Working remotely is not a new concept, but recent events brought this option to the forefront of business solutions.  In the past the thought was to devote an entire space to the home office,   but advances in connectivity have streamlined the amount of space needed to work from home.  Whether you are working at home permanently or just as a temporary measure, we want to help boost your productivity and mood with some of our favorite tips.

Define Your Space

You can now achieve your home work space needs with more efficient options.  If noise control is needed for conference calls or concentration, then a place away from household activities will be essential.  But if you can take an occasional interruption, there are more opportunity to tuck a work space into an unused niche or repurpose the kitchen island.

Plato Woodwork, Inc Cabinetry – Design by Joyce Zuelke, ckd – Interior Designer Judy Bethel

Ergonomics

Maintain proper posture with a chair that is adjustable and comfortable.  Pay careful attention to the position of your head and sight-lines to the computer screen or work surface.  Keep  hands and wrists in alignment, your lumbar supported and maintain the ability to place your feet solidly on the floor.   When possible alternate between a seated and standing position with the aid of a standing desk converter.  Keep work tools within easy reach to avoid pulled muscles.

Lighting

Good lighting is a must and should be appropriate for your specific tasks.  If you are working with a computer screen a lower level of illumination is acceptable as long as your work surfaces are well lit.  Whenever possible incorporate natural daylight to keep your energy levels up throughout the day.

 

Multifunctional Magic

Shiloh Cabinetry – Designed by Joyce Zuelke, ckd

When you can incorporate a work zone into another home area there will be cost and space efficiencies.  Think in terms of a rec room or laundry room that can be claimed for work during the day, while transitioning into extra space off-hours for laundry, crafts or homework.

Custom Home by Lowell Custom Homes – Interior Design by Elizabeth Drake

 

Organization

Storage is essential to reduce mental and physical clutter.  If you are sharing your office space with other home activities, gain control with cabinet pull-outs, bins or portable trollies to organize everything you need for peace of mind.

 

Enjoy the Moment

 

Feel a sense of calm instead of isolation by personalizing your work space with pictures, art and humorous notes to remind yourself that you have a unique and fortunate opportunity.  Get up to walk around a bit throughout the day and schedule breaks that include lunch away from your computer and a call to a friend or co-worker.

Explore more of our beautifully designed cabinetry here!

And call us when you need inspiration for storage in every room of your home!

201 Geneva National Ave S

Lake Geneva, WI

262-245-9600

 

 

/0 Comments/by

Holiday Countdown, Is Your Kitchen Ready?

, , ,

Survive the holidays by planning ahead and preparing your kitchen for the bashing it’s about to take! This doesn’t have to be painful, just follow along and start now!

 

Organize those spices, line up the labels and alphabetize if you must!   Just be sure you have a surplus of those often used holiday flavors  like cinnamon, nutmeg and vanilla.

 

Stock the pantry with ingredients for your favorite cooking and baking recipes.  When you have a large walk-in pantry you’ll have plenty of room for precious resources!

Take inventory of your cookware and bakeware to be sure you can accommodate new specialty recipes. We like to use a tall deep pantry cabinet for easy visibility and accessibility.

The same applies to serving pieces.  Gather your large platters into one location now so they are within reach when you’re ready to plate.

 

Be sure you small appliances are in working order, the slow cooker, blender, and mixers are all about to earn their cabinet position.

Make space in your refrigerator and freezer so you will have space to freeze cookies and pre-made dishes.

Plan for clean-up before the party starts with soaps, dishwasher detergent, disinfectants and extra towels.  Now may be the time to treat yourself to that special dishwasher, like the new Cove from SubZero that will clean and sanitize every plate in silence while your entertaining!

Plan your menu in advance to accommodate signature dishes with the most flattering serving pieces.

 

Happy Holiday Wishes

from all of us

at Geneva Cabinet Company!

Explore all of our ideas for organized storage right here!

Then stop in to our Lake Geneva showroom

to be inspired for every room in your home!

201 Geneva National Ave S

Lake Geneva, WI

262-245-9600

Featured Cabinetry is from Shiloh Cabinetry, Plato Woodwork, Inc & Medallion Cabinetry

Photography by Shanna Wolf/S.Photography and Styling

/0 Comments/by

Cheers to the Beverage Bar

, ,

It’s a little luxury with a big pay off!  Beverage bars are a growing home trend that offers a stylish mix of character and convenience.   This element can be located anywhere in the home where a refreshing beverage is appreciated.  (For Beverage Protocol see Sheldon’s list from Big Bang)

Hot or not, a refreshing beverage is appropriate for everything from relaxation to celebration. What better way to accommodate than from a dedicated beverage bar.

The details of the design are entirely up to you.  Start with the thought of streamlining your daily routine and develop to suit your needs.  Here are a few of our favorite ideas!

Keep It Simple & Multipurpose

 

Elaborate with Specialized Refrigeration and Plenty of Storage

 

Place the Beverage Bar in an Active Area

 

. . . but Keep it Away from the Kitchen Traffic Pattern

 

Dedicate a Niche in the Dining Room

 

Add a Sink & Give the Butlers Pantry a New Purpose

Wrap it Around to Serve Morning Coffee or the Evening Wine Tasting

 

Tuck Away a Coffee Bar

Welcome Visitors in the Guest Room

And Don’t Forget the Kid’s Game Room

. . . or the Big Kid’s Game Room

For more of our favorite entertaining ideas click here!

Explore our beautifully designed cabinetry here!

And stop in to our Lake Geneva showroom

to be inspired for every room in your home!

201 Geneva National Ave S

Lake Geneva, WI

262-245-9600

Featured Cabinetry is from Shiloh Cabinetry, Plato Woodwork, Inc & Medallion Cabinetry

Photography by Shanna Wolf/S.Photography and Styling

/0 Comments/by

Vote for Geneva Cabinet Company – Best Interior Design in Walworth County

,

We are honored to be nominated in the Interior Design division for the Best of Walworth County 2019!

This nomination is especially meaningful to us because it recognizes the exceptional talent and creativity of our interior design staff.

We would be truly honored to receive your vote for Geneva Cabinet Company.  You can click over to the voting page here to vote for and support all of your favorite Walworth County businesses.

To become more familiar with our work browse our project Inspiration Gallery by clicking here.

 Our showroom is the ideal place to gather the knowledge and information you need for your home projects.   Stop in to visit and experience our design expertise firsthand.   Until then, let us introduce our talented staff.

Joyce Zuelke – Senior Designer & Showroom Manager

 

Natalie Spiniolas – Senior Designer

 

Stephanie Nelson – Associated Designer

 

Jennifer DiMeo – Associated Designer

 

Jessie Hopkins – Production Manager

 

 

Voting for the Best of Walworth County takes place this year through October 27th, 2019.  When you vote in at least 10 categories you will be automatically registered for a chance to win an amazon echo and a $75 gift card!

Best of luck to all who participate!

Geneva Cabinet Company, LLC.

201 Geneva National Ave S

Lake Geneva, WI

262-245-9600

 

/0 Comments/by

The Architectural Kitchen

, ,

A kitchen is central to the design of any home, and the details need to complement the architecture without interrupting it.   In the case of this new home by Lowell Custom Homes, the kitchen openly participates in the establishment of a fresh modern statement.

The rustic white oak flooring and pale Benjamin Moore wall finish called for a touch of contrast in the cabinetry.   We accomplished that with a combination of two finishes from Plato Woodwork.  The perimeter was firmly wrapped in Plato’s painted Arctic White finish while we defined the island and buffet with the contrasting richness of Alder Carbon.

High Performance Island

The counter height island serves as a landing for casual gatherings as well as daily amenities.  Two Bosh 24″ dishwasher drawers, Thermador undercounted refrigerator drawers, a Sharp microwave oven drawer and prep sink are all housed beneath durable Caesarstone Quartz countertops.

Graceful Symmetry

The open plan gives way to perfect symmetry in the design and layout of cabinetry.  A farmhouse sink from Rohl and lantern wall sconces from Hinkley frame the outer wall,

while artisan tile from Bella Tile and Stone defines a professionally equipped cook center under bright clerestory windows.

Integrated design

Cabinetry door panels conceal the refrigeration and work well to integrate the design into the overall architectural goals of the room.

Entertainment Value

The kitchen location just off of the entry gallery is ideal for hosting events large and small.  A storage sideboard serves well while entertaining or simply looks good as a supporting focal point of the room.

Kitchen and cabinetry design must enhance the overall architectural direction of a home.  We strive to incorporate our detailed cabinetry and design knowledge to confirm this design statement.

The result is truly the best of both worlds!

Explore more of our beautifully designed kitchens here!

And stop in to our Lake Geneva showroom

to experience cabinetry inspiration for every room in your home!

201 Geneva National Ave S

Lake Geneva, WI

262-245-9600

Kitchen Design by Joyce Zuelke, ckd

Photography by Shanna Wolf/S.Photography and Styling

/0 Comments/by

Kitchen Backsplash Trends to Inspire

, , ,

Gone are the days when a 4″ x 4″ kitchen backsplash tile would dazzle your day.  The backsplash now plays a leading role in establishing the design aesthetic for your kitchen, and even your entire home.   Browse through our top trends and be inspired to make a personal backsplash style statement.

Solid Slab Backsplash

Solid slabs ooze luxury and are available at a variety of price points.   The Installation of these sometimes gigantic stone pieces is not for the faint-of-heart.  Watch this installation video to see how it’s done.

As you can see perfect measurements and strategic planning are a necessity, but the results are worth it!  The streamline simplicity of this look is enhanced when the countertops match.

slab book match marble

 

There is a natural elegance to this backsplash treatment that is appropriate for every area of the home.  Here it is used in a beverage bar adjacent to the great room.

 

On another installation the granite slabs actually glide to reveal secret storage beneath a flawless Raw Urth stainless steel hood.

1 backsplash ka sliding granite Raw Ruth brushed Stainless hood

 

Take It To The Ceiling

The unbroken vertical line of a full height backsplash will visually lift the ceiling and expand the entire space.

slab full height to ceiling Colorquartzs quartz Venatino CQolid surface

 

Similarly the full height backsplash as created with high gloss subway tile will brighten any room.

subway simplicity tiled to the ceiling

 

Pattern Play

Colorful patterned tile is another top trend.  This lively kitchen uses coral concrete tile as a beautiful way to infuse an otherwise neutral space with confident style.

Designed by Elizabeth Drake Interior Design and built by Lowell Custom Homes.

coral concrete tiles Kitchen island countertop Drake Interior Design Vicky photograph

 

We employ this technique again to make a statement on a backsplash in a kitchen designed with Plato Woodwork, Inc. Cabinetry.  View the full kitchen here to see how the customer’s  pottery collection inspired the design.

ceramic morocco style tile

Shimmer & Shine

Adding a reflective material to the backsplash area will reduce shadows and introduce a delightfully unexpected note.  Under cabinet lighting can be added to magnify the effect.

mirrored bar backsplash

 

iridescent glass backsplash tile

Shapely Patterns

Simplicity doesn’t mean boring, especially when you achieve it with the use of a lovely shaped tile.   Honeycomb, arabesques, and other hand cut shapes add interesting texture even when used in a neutral color palette.

shapely tile backsplash

shapely @artobrick Stone tile backsplash

shaped handmade tile

Classic Subway with New Point of View

Even with the many beautiful options for backsplash tile, subway remains a leader.  The 3 x 6 shape can be ceramic, porcelain or even a natural stone.  All of the varieties will create a classic and versatile look a variety of price points.

marble subway tile backsplash

In contrast to the standard installation pattern,  the other possibilities will help you customize this appealing look.

subway tile patterns

Laundry craft room potting sink STAINLESS STEEL BY ELKAY brick pattern subway tile

Material Mix Master

Blending different tile patterns can result in totally fresh statement.  Here the classic subway is enhanced with an insert of beautiful artisan tile.

 

Inserts of delicate stone mosaics create an interlacing border in a mesmerizing pattern.

Material mix backsplash design

 

And the selective placement of tile can designates various activity zones within the kitchen.

shape and subway tile mix

 

Make the ultimate statement in your kitchen with a backsplash, countertops and cabinetry that all present a unified design.  Our designers specialize in creative combinations and will customized one to your personal taste.  Learn more about the creative process and your kitchen design right here.

And learn about the options in countertop materials and how they perform here.

Photography by Shanna Wolf S Photography and Victoria McHugh

Explore our inspirational ideas here!

And stop in to our Lake Geneva showroom

to experience cabinetry design and ideas for every room in your home!

201 Geneva National Ave S

Lake Geneva, WI

262-245-9600

 

/0 Comments/by

Inspiration and The Creative Process for Your Kitchen Design

, ,

Inspiration is where it all begins.

The concept for this newly remodeled kitchen started with a stroll through our neighboring tile showroom.   Our customer fell in love with some lovely artisan tiles that complemented their extensive pottery collection.  From there a new kitchen was conceived!   This is often the case.   One exciting element becomes the starting point for an entirely new design.

Inspiration

 

Brainstorming to Develop a Concept

After initial inspiration, the process advanced by defining our homeowners needs.  Organizing all of the possibilities into a general concept  takes teamwork.  Our kitchen designer worked with the homeowner and her interior designer towards a common vision.  Creating a highly functional kitchen with a lighter and brighter aesthetic was a priority.   The cabinet plan and elevations below were developed to combine all of the best ideas for this active family.

Digging Into the Details

It is essential to edit down all of the options in order to stay on track with any design.  There are so many exciting products on the market, click here to see the many lines we carry.   It’s important to keep the final vision in mind.  Choose cabinets, hardware, countertops and appliances that flow smoothly into a cohesive design.  Just as important,  eliminate anything that doesn’t fit.

This kitchen includes display areas for the homeowner’s beautiful collections while meeting their needs for a bright, highly functional design.    We used custom cabinetry from Plato Woodwork, Inc. with contrasting finishes in  Arctic White and Moody Blue.

The inspiration tile from Bella Tile and Stone was taken to the ceiling for major style statement from every angle.

Honed marble countertops with a beveled edge are a lovely and practical decision to delicately support the bold backsplash pattern.

Hardware from Schaub and Company completes the look in a natural bronze finish with an angular counterpoint to the tile pattern.

Floating shelves balance the space and offer display area for collections.  The lighting plan includes options for under cabinet, in cabinet, recessed and pendant illumination.  A farmhouse sink and faucet from Kohler complete the look.

And of course since a kitchen is all about storage, we designed for this homeowners specific needs by including a special area for all of the specialty small appliances.  No clutter on these countertops!

One inspirational element transformed this kitchen into a centerpiece for the entire home!

Featured in this Kitchen

 Interior Designer by Mary Myer in Lake Geneva, WI

Cabinetry by Plato Woodwork, Inc.

Kitchen design by Natalie Spiniolas

Hardware from Schaub and Company

Appliances from Subzero-Wolf,  Vent-A-Hood

 

Visit our Inspiration Gallery here.

And then stop in to our Lake Geneva showroom to explore stunning cabinetry and design vignettes for every room of your home!

201 Geneva National Ave S

Lake Geneva, WI

262-245-9600

/0 Comments/by

Design Guide to Love Your Laundry Room

,

Often overlooked but impossible to ignore, a laundry room is the workhorse of any home.  It is usually  assigned the standard treatment with a washer, dryer and maybe wash tub, but it deserves better.  Take your laundry area from mundane to multifaceted with our laundry room design tips.

Where should you put your laundry room?

Convenience is the key to efficiency for this space.  There are two ways to approach the placement of your laundry.  

  1. Keep it close to where you spend  most of your time.   In the floor plan above not only is it adjacent to the kitchen, but can easily be reached from the center of the home or while coming and going through the garage and outdoor exit.  
  2. Position the laundry where the clothes are, as in the bedroom wing of your home.

Before deciding on a new location be mindful of the noise levels produced by your brand of washer and dryer.  Adding extra insulation will help soundproof and reduce noise from vibrations during your spin cycle so everyone can sleep through early morning or late night wash emergencies.

How much space do you need?

 

Lifestyle factors and home size will help decide whether you should have a dedicated laundry or multifunctional room.  We like to start every cabinet design project with an evaluation of your space, family members and daily routine.  This is when we determine the minimum space requirements and offer ideas that will help you breeze through the laundry.

Often size restraints complicate the natural flow for these common tasks.

  • sorting
  • stain treatment and soaking
  • hand washing delicates
  • washing bulky items
  • drip drying
  • hanging
  • folding
  • storage

Ample work space allows you to complete each task in one area without lugging baskets of clothing from laundry room to kitchen or bedroom for special care.   At first glance expanding the laundry may seem like an indulgence but when designed with versatility, it is a multitasking dream.  Some of our favorite combinations add a laundry zone to these active areas.

  • mudroom
  • home office
  • adult and children craft zone
  • rec room
  • gardening space
  • homework station
  • workshop

Be open to the idea of borrowing space from an adjoining room.  Once freed from a confining closet, laundry tasks easily integrate into your daily routine.  That expansive work counter can be used for all types of projects when laundry is finished.

The use of a pocket door or sliding barn door is another space saver we love to completely access to the entire work zone without the interference of an awkward door and door swing.

Ultimately it’s about the caring for your clothing, which can be quite an investment even if you avoid designer labels.

Special Amenities

Are you all about the drip dry or do you love to press in a sharp crease?  Whatever your talents,  laundry space should be there to support you.  Here are some of our favorite features.

Drip Dry Rods & Valet Hooks

 

Rev-a-Shelf Fold Out Ironing Board

 

Pull-Out for Laundry Supply Storage & Laundry Bin

 

Open Shelving for Easy Access & Storage

 

Multiple Bins to Sort-As-You-Go with Ventilation to Reduce Odors

 

Double Your Leisure

There is a nostalgic appeal to the laundromat where you can load up several washers and dryers to finish in 1/2 the time.  But multiple units at home allow you to be the head honcho of your own laundry universe without pockets full of change.  This is a productive solution when you have a large family, frequent guests or an active crew with lots of sweaty workout clothes and uniforms.

You can even tuck in an extra set of stacked washer and dryer units in the master closet, in the bedroom hall, or near any indoor-outdoor activity area.

 

Style to Smile

Once you’ve created a highly functional laundry, it’s time to tackle it from the standpoint of style.  Interesting cabinet doors, bold hardware, colorful appliances and an attractive backsplash will infuse your space with character.  You are spending anyway on new tile, cabinets and hardware, why not have a little fun in this space.  There is little to no price difference in choosing cherry red over white.  Have some fun in this room with the basics or be sure to add art.

 

Photography by Shanna Wolf S Photography and Victoria McHugh

Explore more of our inspirational ideas here!

 

And stop in to our Lake Geneva showroom to explore more great cabinetry design and ideas for every room of your home!

201 Geneva National Ave S

Lake Geneva, WI

262-245-9600

 

 

 

 

/0 Comments/by

Portfolio Items