Posts

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  Appliances are outdated

Outdated appliances will be inefficient, unreliable and even post a safety hazard.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

 

Your laundry room design can save time and lighten your load!

Do you like keep up with laundry daily or dedicate one time per week to conquer this challenge?

The answer to this and other key factors will influence the design.

  • How many people live in your home?
  • Is anyone or everyone involved in fitness or sports?
  • Does everyone at home have enough basics to get through the week?
  • Do allergies or sensitivities require special laundry handling?
  • Is most clothing “easy-care” or “handle-with-care”?

This information will help your Geneva Cabinet designer guide you to the right solutions.

  For details about where to locate your laundry room and how large it should be, check our past blog.  But for now, let’s take a look at the latest pick-me-ups for wash day.

Make Functional Fabulous

Inspire your day with a perky laundry room

Plato Woodwork, Lowell Custom Homes, Shanna Wolf Photography

In the past, the laundry was consigned to the basement or squeezed into the mudroom.  We prefer a fresh approach that will place a positive spin on the task.   Since laundry is inevitable, why not make the task more pleasant?  Go from functional to fabulous by adding color and pattern to your space.  Easy-to-clean wallcovering is the perfect backdrop for durable cabinetry.

laundry room trends

Kippps Bay Showhouse, Designer David Fazier, Staff Photo

This year the Kipps Bay Showhouse flooded the laundry room with a matching pattern for wallcovering and fabric.  The cafe style curtain hides washer, dryer and sorting bins behind a classic acanthus pattern from Sloan.

Laundry Room Multitasking

Hybrid laundry rooms

Woodmode, Lowell Custom Homes, Elizabeth Drake Interior Design, Victoria McHugh Photography

Laundry space is the ideal place for multitasking.  This is a natural for built in flexibility.   The sink can be used to presoak and rinse clothes, as well as potting plants or cleaning art supplies.   Cabinetry will conceal laundry while providing space for games and craft supplies.  A home office, art studio, or craft station would all be compatible, with plenty of shared counter space.

Laundry Innovations

Fall in love with a 2-in-1 Washer/Dryer from the GE Profile collection.  This new generation of appliances offers space saving convenience, energy savings, a smart dispenser to hold enough detergent and softener for up to 32 loads, and antimicrobial technology.  Especially notable is the HQ app to keep you appliance software updated.

Learn more about this new technology here.

Compact Second Laundry

second story laundry

Das Holz Haus Cabinetry, Lowell Custom Homes, North Shore Nest Interior Design, Photo by Aimee Mazzenga

Adding a second laundry room, right where the messiness happens, is a real time saver. Popular spots include the Primary Bath, Second Floor Bedroom Hallway, and Pool Bath.  This feature is growing in popularity.  Processing laundry in the same zone eliminates the extra step of carting it around, while conserving personal energy.

plans for laundry

Storage Features

For a weekly laundry schedule, concealed storage is the key to organization.  The addition of a drip dry rod and pull-out hampers will keep the room streamline and clutter free.

Drip Dry Rod, Pull-out Laundry Bin

Shiloh Cabinets, Josh Z Photography – Plato Woodwork, Shanna Wolf Photography

Open Shelving is designed for easy access.  It’s the perfect fit for a daily laundry habit.

Quality Lighting, Open ShelvingPlato Woodwork Cabinetry, Lowell Custom Homes, Shanna Wolf Photography – Lowell Custom Homes, Staff Photo

Countertops & Laundry Sinks

Laundry Sink

Medallion Cabinets, Josh Z Photography

Gone are the days when utility sinks on stilts were the standard.  In today’s modern laundry room, ergonomics wins.  A sink built into the cabinet is good for pre-washing and stain fighting without a deep back bend.  The cabinet base naturally improves storage and increases counter space for folding. For an extra bonus, choose a sink as beautiful as this hammer copper!

Pet Stations

laundry room sink and dog wash

For those with furry friends, adding a pet washing station is a nice fit for a spacious laundry room.  This large basin can also be used for cleaning outdoor equipment and muddy boots as well as pets.  Tile walls will wipe down easily after the final shimmy and shake dry.

Visit our Laundry Room Gallery to make a list of your favorite ideas.

Then Contact Us Here!

 

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.

 

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

 

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

 

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

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

 

 

The kitchen work triangle will never go out of style, but a new concept in kitchen design is emerging and we think you’ll like it.  It takes the idea of work zones to the next level.  Traditionally the work triangle included efficient spacing between the refrigerator, sink and range.  But this new approach is expanding that idea to include designated areas for other common kitchen tasks.  With everyone spending more time at home, the addition of specialty stations for drinks, snack, homework and work-at-home is gaining momentum. This is a real plus, especially when we are spending more time at home and all using the kitchen at once.

Kitchen Zones

Multiple and flexible zones are a personalized way to design a kitchen that includes sophisticated storage, integrated appliances and statement backsplashes.  This lovely example features Shiloh Cabinetry for a remodel by Stebnitz Builders.

 

Cooking Zone

Featuring backsplash by Bella Tile and Stone and a range hood by Raw Urth

 

Food Storage Zone

Consumable food storage includes refrigeration and pantry cabinets.

Food Prep Zone

The food preparation zone can be a short distance from cooking zone to allow multiple cooks to work at the same time.

 

Cleaning Zone

A centralized location that allows for free movement between work surfaces, dishwasher and trash.

Storage Zone

Non-consumables storage houses cooking and dining essentials.

 

Storage and Coffee Bar

Specialty areas follow along with each homeowners interests.

 

Dining and Multi-Use Island Surface

A grand island offers casual dining and an expansive work surface for homework, work-at-home or craft projects.

Beverage Bar and Refreshment Station

An additional area adjacent to the main living space can relieve congestion and centralize snack and beverage options.

 

Kitchen Plan Overview

If you are considering a new design for your kitchen, bath or any other storage spaces in your home, be sure to stop in to talk to the designers at Geneva Cabinet Company.

Visit our Inspiration Gallery here

And set up an appointment to visit with our designers by contacting our showroom here.

Photography by Josh Z