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Control Mudroom Clutter

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From beach towels to backpacks, we help you control mudroom clutter with storage to help the entire family get organized.  Given its humble beginnings, the mudroom is now an essential space charged with moving you in and out of the house efficiently.  No matter the size, we have cabinetry and design ideas for an attractive and organized launch pad.

First Impressions

Control Mudroom Clutter with style

Interior Design by North Shore Nest, Photo by Aimée Mazzenga

Even the smallest footprint deserves to be treated with orderly style. The designers at North Shore Nest elevate this informal entry with a blue and white scheme for a well-deserved mudroom appreciation moment.

Clutter Control Basics

control Mudroom clutter with hooks and seating

Geneva Cabinet Company, Photo by Shana Wolf

Plenty of sturdy hooks and a bench for pulling on shoes will get your design off to a good start.  From there,  add cubbies above or below the hooks to accommodate frequently used items like shoes, bags and keys.

Design for Durability

Control Mudroom Clutter with cabinetry designed for durability

Geneva Cabinet Company, Photo by Shanna Wolf

Durable and washable finishes are a must for this area.  It’s often the only barrier between outdoor debris and your lovely interior finishes.  Select easy to clean materials that are immune to seasonal wear and tear.  Tile and luxury vinyl plank flooring are popular choices in the mudroom.  For the walls consider a quality semi-gloss and be sure to select cabinetry or lockers with a resilient finish.

Incorporate Cabinetry

Control Mudroom Clutter with cabinets to incorporate storage

Geneva Cabinet Company, Photo Shanna Wolf

When space allows, cabinetry helps to control mudroom clutter with storage for sporting equipment, school supplies and a wide variety of footwear for all seasons.  Every household has unique priorities and cabinetry is sure to improve convenience.  Discuss home improvement possibilities with your Geneva Cabinet designer for storage solutions to accommodate every season.

Connect With Color

Geneva Cabinet Company, Photo by Shanna Wolf

A bold color will draw attention and highlight storage space.  There is no excuse for throwing coats in a pile when a dazzling storage center is in clear view.  A color cue will remind everyone of Benjamin Franklins wisdom,  “A place for everything, and everything in its place.”

Customize Your Storage

customize your mudroom storage space with bins and baskets

Geneva Cabinet Company, Photo by

Configure your mudroom with chic bins and baskets that will sort paraphernalia and fit neatly into cubbies.  Possibilities are easy to find with a browse through Targets Studio McGee Collection or Etsy.

Stretch Your Space

Control Mudroom Clutter by expanding your space with mudroom cabinetry to clear everyday clutter

Geneva Cabinet Company, Photo by Shanna Wolf

When the entry is compact, consider borrowing nearby space to satisfy storage needs.  We love the solution for this collection of thermal drinkware, naturally a priority for any lake home.

Combo Space

Control Mudroom Clutter by combining with laundry room

Geneva Cabinet Company, Photo Shanna Wolf

The mudroom and laundry area are a classic combination. This is ideal for tossing sandy beach towels or muddy sportswear right into the wash.  We share more of our favorite ideas in this Laundry Room Design Guide.

 

Visit our award winning Lake Geneva showroom for inspiration.

Contact us for an appointment with a design expert today!

 (262) 245-9600
info@genevacabinet.com

 

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Kitchen Design with Style & Storage

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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.

 

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Outdoor Kitchen Perks

The kitchen is the command center for home activity, so when summer rolls around make the swap to an outdoor kitchen for a refreshing change.  This upgrade will improve your attitude, and potentially your home’s value.

Increase Living Space

outdoor kitchen expands living space

Geneva Cabinet Company, Lowell Custom Homes, Shanna Wolf Photography    

Often backyards don’t live up to their full potential.  Create outdoor rooms that will bring dormant property to life.  When planning, place the outdoor kitchen in an area that is easy to access from indoors.  For more tips see our Outdoor Kitchen Guide.

Fluid Space for Entertaining

outdoor kitchen for more space to entertain

Geneva Cabinet Company, Lowell Custom Homes, Shanna Wolf Photography

Social events are more appealing when guests can flow between spaces.  An event that begins indoors suddenly becomes more relaxed as guests follow the sun.  Adding an outdoor gathering space expands your entertainment opportunities for more fun with family and friends.

Increase Healthy Outdoor Time

Outdoor kitchen helps spend more quality time outdoors

Geneva Cabinet Company, Lowell Custom Homes, Shanna Wolf Photography

Spending time outdoors improves health and well-being.  Take everyday activities alfresco to boost your energy along with many other proven health benefits.

Energy Saving

Outdoor Kitchens saves energy

Geneva Cabinet Company, Lowell Custom Homes

Cooking outdoors will keep the heat out of the kitchen on a steamy summer day.  Save on air conditioning while the grill multitasks for meal preparation.  Plus, grilled food has its own deliciously unique flavor!

Make the Most of Spring and Summer

Outdoor Kitchens Make the Most of Spring and Summer

Geneva Cabinet Company, Lowell Custom Homes, Photo by Aimee Mazzenga

While the weather is pleasant, take advantage of every day with an outdoor kitchen surrounded with comfortable seating.  Adding a fireplace or heater will extend your seasons from the beginning of spring through the early days of winter.

Designed to Fit Your Home

Outdoor Kitchens designed to fit your needs

Geneva Cabinet Company, Lowell Custom Homes, Shanna Wolf Photography

Geneva Cabinet Company will design the perfect outdoor kitchen to fit your space and budget.  Tuck one into an existing outdoor niche or have our designers create a layout to perfectly suite your needs.

Contact us and we’ll help you get this project started!

262-245-9600

 

 

 

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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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Open Air and Outdoor Kitchens are Hot

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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

 

 

 

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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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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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The Architectural Kitchen

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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

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Kitchen Backsplash Trends to Inspire

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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

 

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