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Bath Remodeling Mistakes to Avoid

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Adding or remodeling a bath is an exciting investment in your home and we want to help you avoid the most common remodeling mistakes.  There will be endless decisions every step of the way, but with tips from our pros, you will achieve the style and function you need, without these common blunders.

Ignoring Scale

Shiloh Cabinetry, Shanna Wolf Photography

Bigger is not always better.  It’s important to evaluate your space and choose fixtures based on the proper scale.  Just because you can squeeze in a 9′ Jacuzzi, doesn’t mean that you should.

Treating the Toilet as a Literal Throne

New bathroom design don't focus on the toilet

Das Holz Haus Cabinetry, Josh Z Photography

The toilet is not an objet d’art.   Even with many beautiful modern designs, placing it discretely is the best approach for everyone’s comfort.  In the primary suite having a partition or separate compartment is highly desirable.

Bath remodeling mistakes to avoid the toilet location

Shiloh Cabinetry, Shanna Wolf Photography

For the standard bath, do your best to position the toilet away from the direct line of site upon entry.  Consider the view from outside of the bath to eliminate any awkward unexpected moments.

 

bathroom remodeling mistakes to avoid

 

Avoid Underestimating Storage Needs

avoid mistakes of underestimating storage needs

Plato Woodwork Cabinetry, Shanna Wolf Photograph

Be sure to include enough storage for all the things that will make you feel pampered.  Storage should be functional while personalizing the space for your routine.  Built-ins like this heated drawer offer the bonus of toasty warm towels.

Plato Woodwork Cabinetry, Shanna Wolf Photography

Not Being Flexible

Plato Woodwork Cabinetry, Shanna Wolf Photography

Think outside of the bathroom box and enlist adjacent areas for additional storage with room for luxuries, like a beverage/coffee station. Good design allows you to ease your way into the start of each day.

Ignoring Storage Opportunities

Best of houzz avoid the mistake of overlooking storage niches

Plato Woodwork Cabinetry, Bella Tile Lake Geneva, Shanna Wolf Photography

From the first year we posted this bathroom to our Houzz portfolio, it has been a repeat Best of Houzz award winner!  Some natural opportunities present themselves when designing a space, and our design professionals know how to make the most every inch.  In this bath, recessed areas surrounding the tub allow easy access to towels along with the display space for lovely porcelains to add character.

Limiting the Light

Bath Remodeling Mistakes to Avoid in lighting

Grothouse Countertop, Hafele Hardware, Marvin Windows, Shanna Wolf Photography

Natural lighting is everything in the bath.  However, it can be harsh and should be balanced with fixtures emitting softer more flattering illumination. This is especially important above vanities.

Overlooking Comfort Details

Bella Tile Lake Geneva, Shanna Wolf Photography

Steam shower technology, zero threshold shower construction and underfloor heating systems all contribute to the comfort and utility of your home.  Research and be aware of design innovations that will create a space to accommodate your abilities now, and in the future.

Trying to DIY

 

Hiring your brother-in-law, unless he works for GCC, may not be the best approach.  Work with those who know how to avoid bath remodeling mistakes while offering a complete project package. From design to installation, ever remodeling project requires endless decisions, measurements, and knowledge of construction codes. This is the value in hiring Geneva Cabinet Company professionals for successful results!

Visit our award-winning showroom in Lake Geneva for inspiration and ideas.

Contact us for an appointment today!

 (262) 245-9600
info@genevacabinet.com

 

 

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Home Renovations Beyond Cabinetry

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A space may be charming, but not living up to its full potential.  That’s when the experts at Geneva Cabinets Company work their magic.  Your home renovations will go beyond cabinetry when you look to Geneva Cabinets for a one-stop-shopping experience.

Before and after home renovations by Geneva Cabinet Company

It’s about more than replacing cabinetry.  Geneva Cabinets wants you to have an entire space that is beautiful and flows seamlessly from room to room.  New kitchen cabinets certainly improved the outlook for this kitchen, while our designers take it a step further reimagining the entire home.

 

Address the Space

When it comes to this home’s renovation, relocating the bath was a key decision.

home renovations in kitchen and moving bath to enlarge spaces

Once the kitchen was open and spacious, the rest of the home was ready for a refresh.  This included lifting the ceiling, new windows, flooring, and lighting.    The kitchen roofline was raised into a gable adding visual space along with a series of sunny skylights.

enlarged kitchen space and raised ceiling

New wood flooring extents throughout the home along with special ceiling treatments, updated woodworking, and lighting.

home renovations with new cabinetry in kitchen

The cabinetry is custom from Plato Woodwork Inc.   Perimeter cabinetry is painted in timeless Essential White with an island in Blue Nose from Benjamin Moore .  Hardware from Schaub in Satin Brass is a nod to Lake Geneva’s nautical perspective.

island with undercounted refrigerator and microwave drawer

In addition to being a fabulous workspace, this island is a natural gathering point with undercounted refrigerator, microwave drawer and plenty of storage.  The exaggerated thickness in the island’s Cambria countertop is our latest obsession.  It is such a modern statement that exudes luxury.

Beyond the Kitchen

home renovation include new flooring in the living room

A impressive part of this home renovation is the new flooring flowing into the living room, where molding details and hearth also receive an upgrade.

living room renovation by Geneva Cabinet

Guest Bedroom and Bath

enlarged guest bedroom

The guest bedroom now feels open and airy while the relocated bath features a bright modern attitude.

guest bath renovation

Entry Hall

Upgrading the entry as part of the home renovation offers visitors a preview of the new sunny disposition.

entry hall remodel

. . . with a little added surprise

two way closet

Sometimes it’s the little things that make you smile. A guest bedroom doesn’t really need a dedicated closet, so some clever shared storage is included.  Contents are accessible from the entry hall or the guest room!

Attention to Detail

attention to detail

As with every kitchen and bath installation, the team at Geneva Cabinet attends to the little details.  The new wood floor deserves a perfectly set in air vent that blends visually without obstruction to the path of circulation.

For a seamless home renovation experience, start in our Lake Geneva showroom.  It’s bursting with inspirational product displays and a friendly team to guide you from design to installation.

Photography Shanna Wolf

Cabinetry Plato Woodwork, Inc.

Tile Bella Tile Lake Geneva

 

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Perfect Pairings – Vanity + Mirror

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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

 

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Open Plan Kitchen Guidelines

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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

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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.

 and

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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