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The Multi-zone Kitchen

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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

 

 

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Pantries With Personality

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The pantry comes out of hiding and into the home’s spotlight.    It is one of the latest home spaces to get some well-deserved attention.  While space is the deciding factor for size, good design will ensure that you always have a place to hide the cookies.

Open Air Pantry

You would never guess that this kitchen extension houses the most generous storage within custom Plato Woodwork, Inc. cabinetry. No more cluttered countertops, everything has just the right spot for well-organized daily efficiency.

 

Show Off Storage

On the other hand, a dedicated pantry allows you to peruse stock easily.  You’ll never have to fumble around in the dark back corners of you cabinet when all is visible at a glance on spacious open shelving.  You can use built-ins, cabinetry with open shelving or even repurpose furniture to outfit the space.

Adjustable shelving is a bonus for maximizing space by fitting it to the perfect height to store canisters, baskets and appliances.

The Multipurpose Pantry

Be sure to take advantage of every nook and cranny in your home.  Often you can borrow space from another room to fit in organized storage.  Combine pantry area with your laundry, home office or mudroom for a highly efficient space.

 

Best Kept Secret Pantry

What looks like an beautiful but ordinary cabinet door is in fact the pass through to a splendid floor-to-ceiling pantry space.  We made this happen with custom cabinetry from Plato Woodwork, Inc and the fine construction team at Lowell Custom Homes.

 

Be Bold

We believe in treating small spaces with an element of surprise.  Let your fun side shine through with a bold pattern or colorful design.  Sorting groceries will be your feel-good moment of the day.

 

One Final Tip – Use Consistent Containers

A trip to The Container Store or your local hardware will help you make the most of your space with consistent container sizes.  Mix and match a few styles with the same shape so they will fit closely together to maximize your space.

 

Without a doubt, the pantry is having its day!  Generous storage for daily items and space for emergency surplus (like toilet paper) will never go out of style.  If you are considering a new design for your kitchen, pantry 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 Shanna Wolf

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What Do Our Designers Do?

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Should you use an interior designer for your cabinetry projects?

We believe a designer is essential to the success of any home project where you need the confidence and expertise to deal with layers of details.  Good design is a combination of the perfect layout, flawless interior selections, and the expertise of people who can make your vision come to life.

Much of the design work that goes into your cabinetry project isn’t always obvious.  It may start with a simple wish list that needs to be developed before evolving into a finished plan.  As a cabinetry showroom, we’re a bit unusual.  Not only do we represent beautiful high quality cabinetry, our people work as a team to offer the very best Interior Design services from every angle.  We take pride in being named the Interior Design Winner for 2020’s Best of Walworth County.

Our team members represents several specialties that contribute to our stunning results.

We would like to start the introductions with our Showroom Manager, Joyce Zuelke, ckd.  That “ckd’ behind her name stands for the Certified Kitchen Design designation she was awarded by the National Kitchen and Bath Association.  This is only granted after years of experience and passing rigorous academic and design practicum exams.  Beyond that, Joyce has a background in Interior Architecture which allows her to blend art and science to create, restore and readapt interior spaces.  Read more about Joyce here.  Take a look at one of Joyce’s latest projects featuring Shiloh Cabinetry.

. . . and just one of the many pages of planning that went behind it.

Next you must meet Natalie Spiniolas

As an Interior Designer with a degree from Illinois Institute of Art, Natalie began with a holistic approach to Interior Design and is now specializing in the area of Kitchen and Bath.  From the initial client meeting to a design that is integrated into the clients home, Natalie finely details each plan for the ultimate solution.  Read more about Natalie here, then take a look at one of her kitchens featuring Plato Woodwork, Inc. 

. . .  and the 3D drawings she developed to help her clients visualize the completed kitchen.  See more photos of this design here.

Rounding out the design team is Stephanie Nelson who serves an integral role.  She too has an Interior Design background and the attention to detail that we highly value.   Not only does Stephanie assist our designers, she is an essential part of the design work for visiting designers.  Read more about her here.

Stephanie spends a great deal of her time on technical drawings, 3D renderings and shop drawings for our installation team.  Here is one of her recent projects using Shiloh Cabinetry.

 

And nothing would happen without our Project Manager, Jessie Hopkins.

Jessie is a master of organization and coordinates scheduling and delivery of cabinetry, along with all of the other elements that make an installation possible.  Read more about her here.

Speaking of installation, we are known for quality of work by our expert construction and installation team, right here.

 

Beyond your personal style, our team is dedicated to guiding you through the full design and installation of your home or commercial project.  We love working directly with homeowners and are also frequently called upon to work with other designers and builders for their cabinetry needs.

Read about the steps it takes to complete your project with Geneva Cabinet Company click here.

And know that we are always excited to create the ideal space for you!

 

Before planning your next project visit our Inspiration Gallery here.

Our showroom is open by appointment only, place call to schedule your visit!

262-245-9600

Photography by Shanna Wolf

 

 

 

 

 

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Geneva Cabinet Wins Best Interior Design!

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Geneva Cabinet Company is named as the Best Interior Design in Walworth County!

This is our first year to win the Best Interior Design category and we are absolutely thrilled.   We are honored that so many people see the importance of blending good design and quality cabinetry.

Thank you voters! And a special thanks to our team of talented designers and installers, meet them here!

This is the second award we won this year, the first being the Best of Houzz Design Award.

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To celebrate we rounded up some of our most popular rooms to inspire your next home project.

First, the most saved picture on Houzz for 2020 is a cheerful and bright kitchen featuring Shiloh Cabinetry.

 

Second runner up on the most popular list, an luscious bath with open storage shelving and cabinetry from Plato Woodworking Inc.

 

This year generous pantries are rocking our world!  We all appreciate keeping groceries accessible and organized to avoid non-essential trips to the store.  This one is designed and fitted with Shiloh Cabinetry.

And of course with more at-home time, home bars are especially popular. Here we created a bar with specialty ice maker for those artisan cocktails.  We used cabinetry from Shiloh.

One of our most impressive kitchen makeovers was accomplished with minimal disturbance to the existing kitchen.  A new island was designed and installed to update the entire space.  This island features cabinetry from Plato Woodwork Inc.

 

Two newcomers to our kitchen popularity contest were completed in 2020.  This first features beautiful  Shiloh Cabinetry

While the next features cabinetry from Plato Woodwork, Inc.  Note the secret pass through pantry!

 

The last two kitchens remain at the top of our most admired projects.  Just click each picture to visit the full space!

 

For every style you can imagine, we will create the perfect look through our finely crafted cabinetry.

Visit the Inspiration Gallery on our website or view our portfolio on Houzz.

Our showroom is open by appointment, please call to schedule your visit!

262-245-9600

Photography by Shanna Wolf

 

 

 

 

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Should You Splurge on a Microwave Drawer?

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The microwave drawer is a new and improved version of the standard kitchen microwave.  For decades it was placed on the counter or precariously above the stove. The drawer offers a safer, user-friendly position.  Our newly completed kitchen, featuring Shiloh Cabinetry, demonstrates the advantages.

Elevate the Design of Your Kitchen

No longer view a sea of appliances when you glance into the kitchen.  The undercounted microwave is more discreet and blends beautifully with fine quality cabinetry.

 

Clear Countertops

No bulky appliance to interfere with a streamlined length of work space.

 

Make Way for a Statement Hood

This is a game changer when the space above the range can be used for a decorative and energy efficient range hood.

 

Easy Access for Hot & Heavy Cooking Platters

You are now able to lift items up and out of the microwave instead of balancing them and hoping not to spill liquids.  The new microwave drawers do not use the clumsy old-fashioned turntable.   The heating element, now located on top, does the rotating.  This means your rectangular pans will not bang around.  Also, note how easy it is to add ingredients and stir your recipes without having to remove a hot plate from the microwave.

Usable Eye Level Storage

Upper cabinet space can be put to better and more flattering use.

 

Easy to Fit Into Your Plans

Not only do we love these microwave drawers for your kitchen, we find them easy to include in the design of butler’s pantries, home bars and even home theaters.  If children are in the home, most have a way of locking the control panel to avoid unauthorized use.

 

Take the tour to see all of the amazing design elements included in this kitchen by clicking here.

And then get inspired for your personal kitchen or bath makeover here!

Our showroom is open by appointment, please call to schedule your visit!

262-245-9600

 

All cabinetry featured is Shiloh Cabinetry

Microwave Drawers in this kitchen are from Sharp

Photography by Shanna Wolf

 

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Vote for Geneva Cabinet as Best of Walworth County!

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We are honored to be nominated once again in the Interior Design category for the Best of Walworth County 2020

Our specialty is blending the highest quality products with the exceptional designs of our staff.  This nomination is truly meaningful to us because it recognizes all of their talent and creativity!

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

Get to know our design team here!

And take a look at this beautiful home with kitchen, bath and laundry design by Joyce Zuelke, ckd and Lowell Custom Homes!

Start to imagine the possibilities for your home by visiting our showroom. You can also browse our Inspiration Gallery by clicking here.

 

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Out With the Island, In With the Fun!

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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

 

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Nagging Little Questions About Your Kitchen Remodel

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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

 

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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

 

 

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Geneva Cabinet Wins The Best of Houzz 2020

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There are times when we are surprised by which photos go viral.  But not this year!  This crop of our most popular photos on Houzz are only predictable because they are such classic beauties!

We thank Houzz and congratulate our homeowners for having the good taste to make their kitchens or baths the envy of all.

Our projects are among the most popular saved as inspiration by 2.5 million members of the Houzz Community!  We are honored to receive this award that places us in the upper 3% of the professional work on Houzz.  And now, drum roll please . . .

This Luxury Bath is our #1 most popular photo for the year!

See more of our favorite bathrooms here.

 

A Crisp Blue and White Kitchen featuring Shiloh Cabinetry follows close behind!

See the full project here.

 

This kitchen is more popular after we updated it by installing a new generous island.

See more of our favorite kitchens here.

 

And a lovely kitchen collaboration with Lowell Custom Homes uses Plato Woodwork custom cabinetry.

See the details here.

 

This Refreshing Beverage Center takes a top spot.

See the full project here.

 

This Master Bath has double the pleasure and storage while featuring Shiloh Cabinetry.

See more of our lovely bath cabinetry here.

 

Here timeless traditions are beautifully expressed in this kitchen featuring Plato Prelude cabinetry

For more kitchen ideas follow this.

And the Lifetime Achievement Award goes to this kitchen that is on top of our most popular pictures year after year!

See the full kitchen here.

Join in on the fun on Houzz and create Ideabooks for your future home design inspiration.  Then take a minute to subscribe to our future blogs that will feature all of the latest trends and products for your kitchen and bath!

201 Geneva National Ave S

Lake Geneva, WI

262-245-9600

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