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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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Inspiration and The Creative Process for Your Kitchen Design

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Inspiration is where it all begins.

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

Inspiration

 

Brainstorming to Develop a Concept

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

Digging Into the Details

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Featured in this Kitchen

 Interior Designer by Mary Myer in Lake Geneva, WI

Cabinetry by Plato Woodwork, Inc.

Kitchen design by Natalie Spiniolas

Hardware from Schaub and Company

Appliances from Subzero-Wolf,  Vent-A-Hood

 

Visit our Inspiration Gallery here.

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

201 Geneva National Ave S

Lake Geneva, WI

262-245-9600

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Design Guide to Love Your Laundry Room

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

Where should you put your laundry room?

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

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

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

How much space do you need?

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Special Amenities

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

Drip Dry Rods & Valet Hooks

 

Rev-a-Shelf Fold Out Ironing Board

 

Pull-Out for Laundry Supply Storage & Laundry Bin

 

Open Shelving for Easy Access & Storage

 

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

 

Double Your Leisure

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

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

 

Style to Smile

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

 

Photography by Shanna Wolf S Photography and Victoria McHugh

Explore more of our inspirational ideas here!

 

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

201 Geneva National Ave S

Lake Geneva, WI

262-245-9600

 

 

 

 

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This is How New Cabinetry Would Organize Your Life

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Clutter is part of life, but having new cabinetry and an organized system is like being born again.  Our designers tackle every kitchen project with their eye on the prize, complete order with impeccable style.  It starts with the realization that we have a lot of stuff, and sometimes it gets in the way.  The secret is to have a place for all of it to go.

The first step is a palette cleanse. In this case the existing cabinets were in great shape so we helped the homeowners with a donation to Habitat for Humanity Restore Milwaukee.  On hand is our Project Manager Mike Jeffrey to uninstall the old and remodel the space before installing brand new cabinetry.

 We will take you on a walk-through of your daily kitchen routine in order to analyze where you are wasting space and effort.  Also a realistic look at what you are storing, and why, will be helpful. Then we get to work on the cabinet layout.
before and after kitchen design drawings

This new design features an essential work triangle customized for easy flow, in, around and through the space.  We specify the type of cabinets needed and interior features to best store each kitchen’s content.

kitchen cabinet plan perspective drawing

 

Fluidity is key; refrigerator to sink, pantry to countertop, squirrel watching window to water bowl . . . .

Kitchen cabinet design before and after

When it’s time for filling those cabinets, we encourage a new approach to the traditional system.  Consider grouping items you use most often together in an easy to access cabinet location.  Breakfast items like toaster, waffle maker, and fry pan should be near your breakfast prep area.   This could mean that your cookware is stored according to frequency of use rather than type.  Apply the same thought process to china and serving pieces.  Don’t waste valuable real estate on things that are only used occasionally.

pice pull out cabinety

Spices are the exception, they should be stored together on pull-out racks for easy assessment.

cabinet design coffee bar

And a designated coffee or beverage bar will energize you at the start of each day.

before and after cabinetry with countertop organization

KitchenAids and cookbooks go together like wine and cheese, so stage your countertop with attractive items that are useful in order to save cabinet space.

kitchen cabinets with drawers below counter

And remember that drawers offer the most organized easy to access storage.

new cabinery with large storage cabinets as island base

We like to group large cabinets together out of the work zone to accommodate medium appliances, serving pieces, Costo-sized supplies and that 50 lb bag of dog food.  Here we used double door base cabinets on the front side of an extra-large island for a furniture like appearance.

artistic backsplash to encourage tidy habits

Finish off your new kitchen with an artistic backsplash.  This one from Bella Tile and Stone is the perfect backdrop for an orderly life.

This kitchen features

Medallion Cabinetry with a Craftsman Style Door

Hardware by Top Knobs

Pendant lighting from Old South

Design is by Joyce Zuelke, ckd with installation by Geneva Cabinet Company Project Manager Mike Jefferey

Photography by Shanna Wolf S.Photography and Styling

Stop in to our Lake Geneva showroom to explore more great kitchen and bath looks!

201 Geneva National Ave S

Lake Geneva, WI

262-245-9600

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Donate for a Rewarding Remodel!

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So you want to remodel your kitchen, but hate the idea of wasting the existing cabinetry?  We have a solution for you!  Donate your old cabinets and usable appliances to a good cause like Habitat for Humanity!  We are at your service to make it happen with no extra effort when you do a kitchen or bath project with Geneva Cabinet Company!

Project Manager Mike Jeffrey meets with Jake Weiler from Milwaukee Habitat for Humanity Restore.

This location is one of many home improvement stores around the country that gladly accepts new or gently used furniture, appliances, cabinetry and other building components like windows and doors.  You donations are sold and the proceeds go to your local Habitat  effort to provide affordable housing.

For this project our team did a great job of deconstructing the beautiful cherry cabinetry that was unfortunately not working for the homeowners.  Our team had the cabinets, countertops and lighting ready to go for Habitat Milwaukee.  You can contact them directly to schedule your own pick up or ask for our help during the planning phase of your project.

In this case we are working with incredibly generous homeowners who even donated appliances that were like-new!  A special thank you to them and all of the volunteers at Habitat who made the entire process so rewarding!

In the meantime, our designer Joyce Zuelke, ckd has been hard at work designing the new kitchen layout.  With her trademark ingenuity, the new kitchen will feature a fresh open concept with increased storage and new Medallion Cabinetry.

Stay tuned for the big reveal, it will look a little something like this!

Our designers would love to help you with your kitchen, bath and storage improvements!  Our cabinetry is beautifully made in the USA to the highest standards.  Stop in to our Lake Geneva showroom to browse for ideas or call us today!

262-245-9600

201 Geneva National Ave. S

Lake Geneva, WI 53147

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Is your Bathroom Boring? Don’t Throw in the Towel!

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There is only so much you can do with a toilet and sink, but cabinetry will transform the style of your bathroom.  Don’t let the design of this room be an afterthought.  Browse the cabinetry and design ideas below and choose your favorites to elevate the style of your bath!

Double vanity double duty bathroom cabinet by Medallion Cabinetry

Double your pleasure

Storage is an integral part of functional design, and an absolute necessity in the master bath.  This Craftsman inspired cabinetry provides ample storage for each partner as well as duplicate lighting and mirrors for no crowding during the morning rush.

 

Shiloh cabinetry with open shelving above tub

Just Shelve It

Open shelving expands your storage without closing in the room with more cabinetry.  This has become so popular because it pairs storage with convenience at eye level. Just add bath salts and towel rolls,  you’re done!

 

Bathroom cabinetry sleek modern dark stained finish

Making It Modern

A long expanse of concrete-style counter with trough sink and wall faucets will make a modern statement.  The deep finish on this floating vanity recedes to expand your visual space and simplifies cleaning day.  Bonus opportunity for mood enhancing undercabinet lighting at night.

 

Neutral bathroom cabinet with interesting textured tile surround

Overcome Pattern Shyness

Those who say neutral is boring obviously don’t know about blending pattern and texture. This bath keeps the finish and color selections on the light side while injecting pattern luxury with name-dropping (Ann Sacks) wall and floor tile.

 

DRAMATIC READING room with furniture inspired vanity

Dramatic Reading

It may be the only time of day you have any privacy, so enjoy.  The rich eclectic design of this powder room creates a true statement.  And the furniture inspired vanity lends a sophisticated feel to the space.

 

Shiloh cabinetry designed to fit hi low height

Designed to Fit

Logic and simplicity drove the design of this clever hi-low cabinet.  The comfort height of the vanity would have run smack into the window.  But a slight modification by our designer allowed us to extend the cabinetry for additional storage.

 

Shiloh u-shaped cabinet drawer

We also like the efficient u-shaped drawer design in this driftwood inspired vanity.  It works around pesky pipes to make the most of space.

 

Medallion bathroom vanity with open and closed area

Open and Shut Cabinet Case

Closed storage paired with an open bottom shelf offers quick and easy access to towels or supplies that can be stored in small hampers.

 

Plato Woodwork open shelf bathroom vanity cabinet

Here we do it again in natural wood with the addition of a towel bar.

 

Classic black and white contrast cabinet and shower tile

Black and White and Style All Over

It is a classic color combination that features high contrast and endless attraction throughout all periods of design.

Lowell Custom Homes Shower tile

And just for fun, note the way designer Elizabeth Drake played with the black and white concept for the various showers in this home but by Lowell Custom Homes.

 

Finally in the 1-Hour Project Category . . .

Cabinet organization basket

This cabinet idea has gone viral on Houzz since we originally posted it in 2013. You can install a hair styling center or use the door mounted basket for shampoos and soaps.  We have even seen it done with command hooks to be removable.

The best design ideas are at your fingertips when you browse through our past blogs and the product section page of our website.

And of course, we are always here to assist!

 

262-245-9600

201 Geneva National Ave. S.

Lake Geneva, WI 53147

 

Featured Cabinetry is from Plato Woodwork, Inc.,  Shiloh Cabinetry, and others.

Photography is by Shanna Wolf S.Photogaphy and Styling and Victoria McHugh Photography

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Back-to-School Tips Keep You Organized All Year

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Back-to-School means back to sports, after school activities, and homework.  Not to mention packing lunches,  finding healthy snacks and planning the occasional sleepover.  No time to spare! The key to a successful school year is advanced planning.  Here are a few of our most helpful tips.

Let’s Start in the Kitchen

Geneva Cabinet Company large countertops

Large clear countertops are essential when it’s time to work on school projects, assemble lunch boxes and complete homework assignments. In this Plato Woodwork designed kitchen everyone can work together under your watchful eye.

Lake Geneva cabinets with bookcase

Cabinetry with open shelving from Plato Woodwork is ideal for storing reference books, iPads and a basket filled with school supplies.

Geneva Cabinet Company pull out storage bins

Dedicate storage space according to use.  One pull-out bin for lunch supplies, one for snacks and one to stash extra school supplies will let you easily check inventory and prevent late night runs to the store.

Snack Center

Cabinets Lake Geneva Snack Center

This is all about making your life easier, so placing approved snacks together in an easy to access area will prevent whining during the late afternoon crunch time.  It will also help you nudge everyone towards healthy food choices.

Geneva Cabinet Company sub zero refrigerator drawers

This can be as simple as a basket on the counter or as special as this Sub Zero refrigerator drawer.  Here you can store beverages and chilled veggies for family self-service.  Locate this on the outskirts of your kitchen work triangle for interruption-free meal prep time.  For healthy snack ideas click here.

Quiet Time

Geneva Cabinet Company desk and storage cabinets

When quiet study would be more productive, create a customized corner in the den, family room or bedroom.   Be sure to include ample counter space, storage and charging outlets.

Start the day off right

Bathroom Vanity Cabinetry by Geneva Cabinet in Lake Geneva WI

The Jack and Jill bath gets an update with this elongated bathroom vanity featuring a generous trough sink.  Plenty of counter space and storage equals no waiting.  We have more bath ideas for you right here.

Closet organization by Geneva Cabinet Company

Moving into the closet our favorite tip involves lots of storage drawers and bins, they are  especially helpful with clothing for kids.  A well fitted closet can also eliminate the need for costly bedroom furniture and keeping floor space open for play time. Click here for another crave-worthy closet installation!  One last tip, keep it moving in the morning by planning outfits for the week in advance.

 

Drop Zone & Launch Pad

Heading out the door will be a breeze when the essentials are stored in the “ready” position.   Built in lockers, benches and shelving are a streamline way to add storage to your mudroom or laundry.  This style is from Shiloh Cabinetry and will save you hours throughout the year.  No more last minute scrambling for homework or a missing shoe. Backpacks, jackets and sporting equipment will be stored where you can find them at the beginning and end of each day.

Back to School Break time

Now there’s time to take a break, maybe watch your favorite cooking show!

Browse through our Inspiration Gallery  for even more cabinetry design and storage ideas.  Then stop in to our Lake Geneva showroom to touch and feel beautiful cabinetry that will help you love your everyday routine.

262-245-9600

201 Geneva National Ave. S.

Lake Geneva, WI 53147

Featured Cabinetry is from Plato Woodwork, Inc.,  Shiloh Cabinetry, and others.

Photography is by Shanna Wolf S.Photogaphy and Styling and Josh Z Photography

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New Kitchen Island Transforms the Kitchen

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We can all agree that this is a perfectly nice kitchen.  But our homeowners were hoping to elevate their style while increasing storage and adding some much needed island seating.

Enter the talented kitchen and bath designer, Joyce Zuelke, ckd.  She created a more functional space with the addition of a redesigned island.  There is even a new Pinterest worthy coffee bar for good measure.  Along with updates to the lighting and some stunning ceiling detail, this kitchen takes on an entirely new character.

Geneva Cabinet Company kitchen with new island Plato Cabinetry

Kitchen Island Update

The original kitchen was created with cabinetry from Bea Industries in Elkhorn, Wi.  It had a user-friendly U-shape layout.  While stylish and open, our homeowner was looking for an improved kitchen island that would step-up the function of the space.

Cabinetry from Plato Woodwork, Inc. was selected in a deep stain which enhanced the natural wood grain.  This rich finish served as a distinct contrast to ground the bright white kitchen.

Geneva Cabinet Company Lake Geneva Wi kitchen island detail with extra seating Plato Woodwork cabinets

The island is topped with a lovely Cambria quartz countertop in the Ella pattern from their Marble Collection.  Subtle veining reflects the warm island stain while soft white connects to the surrounding cabinetry.  It works beautifully with the perimeter of granite countertops.

Geneva Cabinet Company Lake Geneva Wi island elevation with proper clearance

But it’s not just about having a gorgeous kitchen, the layout must be functional for a kitchen that is comfortable and convenient.  Notice the 48 ½” clearance between the island and the stove for safe usage when the oven door is open.  The close proximity to the island steam oven keeps the cooking zone tight and functional.

Geneva Cabinet Company Lake Geneva Wi kitchen island pull out shelves

The island also features the secret to great cabinet storage, easy access pull-out shelving.  They will keep everyday items visible and within reach to improve daily workflow.

Check out more of our Before and After transformations right here!

We encourage you to stop in to see us!  Our showroom features the freshest ideas in cabinetry for your entire home!

Geneva Cabinet Company, LLC

201 Geneva National Ave.S, Lake Geneva, WI

262-245-9600

 

Photography is by S.Photography Shanna Wolf

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Counter Intelligence – How to Choose the Best Countertop

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Ahh, the Pros and Cons list.  An evaluation technique credited to Benjamin Franklin way back in 1772.  While it may have limitations for making decisions of the heart, it certainly comes in handy when comparing your options for countertops.     There are many attractive possibilities.   So, how do you choose the best countertop for your home?  Simple, just review our countertop Pros and Cons list and make your decision with confidence.    A word of caution, we are biased in the direction of beautiful!

Countertop Pros and Cons

 

Quartz Countertops

We begin with Quartz because it is easily the most popular countertop today.   It is often referred to as Engineered Quartz or Engineered Stone, and  frequently confused with Quartzite (more on that later).  The quartz mineral is fused with a combination of polymers, pigments and powdered or ground materials to form this extremely hard surface.

Pros

High Durability

Scratch & Stain Resistant

Bacteria Resistant

Easy to maintain

Non-Pourous ( will not absorb moisture)

Cons

Not as heat tolerant as Granite or Quartzite

 

Quartzite Countertops

This is the real deal.  Quartzite is a naturally-occurring metamorphic stone and each slab will have the unique quality which is inherent to all natural stone surfaces.  Quartz crystals formed from sandstone were fused together by nature  millions of years ago.   The super strong statement material is one that we have come to love and appreciate,  especially for kitchen islands.

Pros

High Durability (harder than Granite and Quartz)

Scratch & Stain Resistant

Easy to maintain

Cons

This natural stone must be sealed

 

Granite Countertops

Granite is extremely durable and rarely scratches or chips.  Every slab will have a visual quality characteristic to the region of origin. It is a porous surface that can come pre-sealed or should be sealed yearly.

Pros

High Durability

Heat Resistant

Scratch & Stain Resistant

Easy to maintain

Cons

This natural stone must be sealed and may require resealing

Could be susceptible to staining from oils, citrus and alcohol

Extreme hardness may cause breakage if something is dropped on it

 

Marble Countertops

The ultimate choice for classic luxury.   It is a softer stone known for the rich patina developed over time.  Marble stands up to heat but is susceptible to staining.  The consistently smooth and cool nature performs perfectly as a pastry surface.

Pros

Will withstand some heat

Resistant to chips and dents

Smoothest surface – Ideal for pastry preparation

Develops a lovely patina

Cons

The porous surface may be susceptible to scratches or staining from acidic liquids

Sealing will need to be maintained

 

Solid Surface

Here we have your Corian, and other brands that started the solid surface countertop revolution.  A wonderful variety of color and pattern is constantly evolving and improving.   The molded construction allows it to take on many shapes and accommodate an undermount or integral sink.

Pros

Durable

Resistant to mildew, bacteria and stains

Seamlessly accommodates integral sinks

Easy to maintain

Repairs are possible

Non-Pourous (will not absorb moisture)

Cons

Heat sensitive

Possibility of scratching

 

Glass Countertops

Glass countertops are a unique combination of function and art for a modern statement in the kitchen or bar area.  Custom designs will elevate your style with an open suspended quality.  The material can be translucent, colorful or texturized to create special effects like you will see from our friends at  Studio L Glassworks

Pros

Moderate Durability

Heat Resistant

Stain Resistent

Resists Bacteria – Extremely safe for foods

Cons

Susceptible to scratching or chiping

 

Stainless Steel Countertops

Add a Top Chef quality to any kitchen with the visual punch of stainless steel countertops.  Super hygienic and durable, these countertops can be integrated with stainless steel sinks and backsplashes for a seamless professional look.

Pros

High durability

Heat Resistant

Germ Resistant

Easy to Maintenance

Will not stain

Cons

Susceptible to scratches-but they can be polished out

 

Soapstone Countertops

Your science class lab table is reborn!  The sophistication of this natural stone is an up-and-coming look for modern and classic styles at home.  The color ranges from light to dark gray.  Like marble, the developing patina accounts for much of it’s appeal to the organically inclined.

Pros

Heat Resistant

Food Safe

Stain resistant

Develops a stunning patina

Cons

Occasionally require treatment to seal and maintain appearance

Slabs are smaller and may require seaming

Wood Countertops

The allure of natural products is growing in popularity, especially when it comes to wood countertops. We specialize in natural wood countertops from Grothouse Lumber because they excel in beautiful construction with a wide variety of wood species.

Pros

Moderate durability

Natural Luxurious Appearance

Warm Appearance and Tactile Quality

Develops a warm patina

May be re-surfaced to restore appearance

Cons

Low heat resistance

Maintenance is needed

Should be sealed with a food safe sealer

 

Mixing and matching is an option that we whole-heartily support!  What better way to pair your favorite looks with the perfect functional application.   This will help you create a style all your own!

Do we have a clear favorite?  Actually, no.

Because it all depends on how the countertop will be used and where it will be installed.  It is one of the details that we love to address when designing the cabinetry for your home.

It is also the reason we have so many different countertops featured in vignettes around our showroom.  Here you can touch and feel the different options in materials to see how they look with various cabinet styles.  You will experience first hand the beautiful colors and patterns offered by each of the brands we feature.

The countertops you choose will add the final style statement to your overall design!

Stop in to see us!  We have great ideas for your home!

Geneva Cabinet Company, LLC

201 Geneva National Ave.S, Lake Geneva, WI

262-245-9600

 

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