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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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Nagging Little Questions About Your Kitchen Remodel

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A kitchen remodel can be daunting, but not when you’re prepared.  Before you even begin there will be questions swimming around in your head.  That’s where our designers play an essential role as they guide you through the process and create a design that speaks to your specific needs.    Consider these frequently asked questions in advance for a worry-free kitchen remodel.

 

Must I Follow Every Code?

Yes, you must follow the codes, no shortcuts.  Any good contractor, like these guys,  can help.  They know the Universal Building Code, local building codes and permit requirements.  This is where the expertise at Geneva Cabinet Company is priceless.  Many DIY projects are revealed as disaster zones once a qualified contractor gets involved.  Save your sanity and the safety of your family by letting us guide you from the very beginning.  For more information about the design process click here.

 

Should I Use Cabinet Doors or Drawers?

The ideal choice will be user-friendly for your at-home habits.  Lately we have seen a shift to include lower cabinet drawers over cabinet doors.  This is an ergonomic revelation that will save your back and knees when rummaging through cabinet storage.   Drawers have a way of naturally organizing the contents while keeping them easily accessible.  As a backup plan, you can also retrofit the cabinet box with pull out shelving like this.

What type of hardware should I use?

Knobs or pulls?  Centered or on the edge?  Does it matter?  Well, yes.  The hardware placement will impact the look and balance of your entire room.   Care should be taken to make these decisions before the drilling starts.  Our designers will make recommendations based on the cabinet style and usage in your home.  It is all about the visual and functional design as well as the feel you are accustomed to.  Pulls are great when the contents is weighted and you need more leverage.  Knob will usually yield a cost savings and are easier to install.  Keep in mind that a push latch is great for a modern easy-to-clean look.

Where do I stop the backsplash tile?

We’re not gonna lie, this can be a real brain teaser.  That is why we design every kitchen layout with the end in mind.  The start and stop edges of your upper and lower cabinets is intentional.  Proper alignment during the design phase will give a clear indication of the area backsplash tile should cover.   Ideally it should line up perfectly with the end of the cabinets.  When cabinets can not line up architecturally, then a full wall of tile is preferred.

Should I Have a Walk-in Pantry or Pantry Cabinet?

One look at this efficient design will answer that question.  The walk in pantry is a well-lit luxury with easy accessibility.  When not possible we have several options for pantry cabinets that will fit the bill.

How do I choose a countertop edge?

Check out countertop material selections here to select the best performance for your home.  This decision will lead you to appropriate options for edge profiles.  The eased or square edge is ideal in its simplicity with the ability to let other kitchen details stand out.  The Beveled or Ogee edges are classic touches leaning towards a traditional or transitional design.  A bullnose features a smooth edge that avoids sharp corners.  Some edges will visually add bulk or work better on thicker countertops.  And if you’re lucky enough to feature a wood countertop in your home, an edge with a furniture feel will complete the look.

 

Can I mix metals and finishes?

You not only can, but you should!  Becoming a mix master will bring an extra degree of personality to your home.  Read about the beginnings of the trend for metallics and mixing metals here. Start to make your statement by considering the finishes that already exist in your kitchen and where you would like to take them.  This is an effortless way to add dimension and life to your design.  Start with your dominant metal (perhaps the stainless refrigerator) and then layer with a complimentary finish like this bronze.

We believe that every question asked will move you further along the path to a perfect kitchen design!

Our showroom is under renovation so we can bring you the latest products and ideas for your kitchen and bath!  Until we open up we invite you to explore our beautifully designed cabinetry here!

And call us when you need inspiration for storage in every room of your home!

201 Geneva National Ave S

Lake Geneva, WI

262-245-9600

 

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The New Normal for Your Home

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The design process is evolving and adapting to our need for protection from the Covid-19 pandemic.  Kitchens are often the gateway to our homes, so this is the place to be most diligent about cleanliness in order to safeguard our well-being.  While we don’t want our homes to reflect sterile clinical environments, there are some changes we can make to help control the spread of virus and bacteria.  Many of these ideas are not new, but they are most suitable for today’s challenges.

Landing Zone & Sanitation Station

Designate a drop zone at the entry point of your home.  Whether at the front door or the mudroom, it will serve as a landing pad for items waiting to be disinfected.  It should have an easy to clean, non porous surface, something that will not be harmed by disinfecting liquids and sprays.  Shoes, keys, face masks, phone and credit cards can sit here while waiting for treatment.  Keep sanitizing wipes and disinfectant spray right here, along with a means for disposal.  If there is a window for natural sunlight and ventilation, all the better.

Non-Porous Countertops

As luck would have it, quartz materials have grown in popularity the last few years.  Beautiful and nonporous, these materials are ready to support your mission for clean and easy-to-maintain surfaces.  Any sleek smooth design will eliminate crevices for germs to breed.   There are even some products with  antimicrobial properties baked in.  See some of our options here.

Copper Magic

Copper is making a comeback with it’s ability to kill bacteria on contact and viruses within hours.  It has long been a respected material in hospitals and medical environments.   Now is the time for this lovely living finish to make an appearance in your home.  We absolutely love this demonstration by Native Trails showing the healing properties of copper.   Many believe copper also has spiritual powers.  Either way, taking care of germs is good enough for us.

Touchless Faucets

The touchless faucet has been elevated from novelty to necessity.  The germ protection capabilities are easy to see, but it also saves water.  This model by Kohler even has temperature memory that will return to your last setting.

 

Versatile & Multifunctional Spaces

Plato Cabinetry, Interior Design by Judy Bethel

Without a doubt this virus has taught us the importance of being able to adapt our homes and accommodate unexpected change.  Working from home, e-learning and at-home workouts can co-exist in the same space with some advanced planning.  We know this can be tough, but let’s try to enjoy the togetherness for now.   We will be returning to the normal pace of the life soon.

Although no one action can guarantee that we will remain virus-free, it doesn’t hurt to arm your home with the tools that can increase your ability to clean and sanitize, now and in the future.

Explore more of our beautifully designed cabinetry here!

And call us when you need inspiration for storage in every room of your home!

201 Geneva National Ave S

Lake Geneva, WI

262-245-9600

 

 

 

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Our Top 10 2020 Kitchen Trends

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Nothing exciting ever happens when you play it safe and the trends for 2020 will encourage you to take a leap and try some of these new ideas to energize your home.   Keep in mind that these are trends, not fads, they will be around for the next 10 years.   So don’t be shy, give your kitchen a new point of view and enjoy.

 

1. Two & Three Toned Kitchens

We are mixing it up in the kitchen and bath with complimentary wood tones and color options. It is our favorite way to bring warmth, color and texture into the design.  Adding in Pantone’s Color of the Year, Classic Navy will help the cause.

 

2. Slabs migrate from countertop to backsplash

The veining in stone slabs is so appreciated that we are finding new places to view as art by having it move up the wall to the backsplash and walls.

 

3. Countertop Options

There is movement away from granite and towards quartz (man-made) and quartzite (natural stone).  Add in a contrasting kitchen island in wood or butcher block from Grothouse and you round out this fashion forward look.  Also new ultra thin materials are gaining in popularity to offer a more modern point-of-view.

 

4.  Range Hoods take center stage

Artesian crafted with stunning materials like this hood from Raw Urth, we love creating statement pieces in the kitchen that set the tone for the entire home.

 

5.  The Island Life

Extra-large and multifunctional islands are here to stay as the hub of the home.  They are housing appliances, refrigeration, storage and charging stations.   Also the island is center stage as a place for casual dining and gatherings with guests.

 

6.  Luxury Appliances

This trend is more about superior function than status. The newest flexi-fridges have special compartments that transition from refrigerator to freezer and advanced refrigeration systems that extend the life of food for days beyond the older models.   (Very handy for a weekend home.)

 

7.  Lighting for Beauty and Function

Oversized statement pendants over islands as well as detail lighting under cabinet and on cabinet interiors will increase visibility and provide a highly functioning work space.

 

8.  Beverage Bars Expand

No longer an afterthought, beverage bars are practical solutions that are popping up in every room. Coffee, smoothie, wine, or snacks, the beverage bar is at your service.

 

9.  Permanency

The general consensus during most remodels is the desire to do it right and first time. This is the end of the disposable design era.  Most homeowners want to incude all of the bells and whistles to enjoy now and not wait to upgrade their kitchen to prepare it for sale.

 

10.   Versatility

Pushing the boundaries of what a kitchen should be, we are featuring cabinetry that looks like quality furnishing.  Many kitchens are even including comfortable upholstery and decorative items that encourage comfort and livability.

 

The Geneva Cabinet Company’s state-of-the-art showroom is open to the public and contains endless inspiration for every room of your home.    Stop in for a visit and stay connected to the latest trends at genevacabinet.com

Explore our beautifully designed cabinetry here!

And stop in to our Lake Geneva showroom

to be inspired for every room in your home!

201 Geneva National Ave S

Lake Geneva, WI

262-245-9600

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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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Healthy Kitchen, Healthy You!

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Creating a kitchen for wellness is the modern way to introduce a lifestyle that cares for you and your family. A fresh approach to design can encourage new healthful habits. Our designers at Geneva Cabinet Company, LLC are your cabinet concierges with the expertise you need to make it happen.  Follow these tips for a design that will lead you to a healthier home.

Banish the Harmful

As any healthy body knows, it’s what’s inside that counts. The material used in the composition of cabinetry as well as the finishing process is a key factor to product safety.   That is why the cabinets from Geneva Cabinet Company are made in the USA to the highest standards. Our products meet or surpass regulatory requirements for low VOC (volatile organic compounds) so you can breath easy.  You can read about the commitment to the environment by our manufacturers here for Plato Woodwork, Inc, here for Shiloh Cabinetry, and here for Medallion Cabinetry.

Keep it Clean

The right finishes will help you keep your kitchen clean.  Non-porous countertop favorites like Quartz will inhibit the spread of bacteria.  We like taking the backsplash up the wall to provide a fully washable surface.  Read more about countertop options here.  Keep in mind that adding windows in lieu of upper cabinets will let the natural germ fighting power of sunlight pour in.

Visualize Vitality

You will make healthier choices if they are out in the open.   To aid in this pursuit Geneva Cabinet Company is designing kitchens with snack stations and open shelving to display delicious still life arrangements of fruits and veggies. Glass door refrigeration is growing in popularity with its visual cues to more nutritious options and refrigerator drawers are being placed at the point of use for easy-to-reach healthy treats.

display healthy food in the open

Engage the Senses

With the focus on real foods, indoor growing rooms and countertop herb gardens are nurturing features. Terra Trellis has elevated the design of indoor gardens with their delightful grow boxes and expert indoor gardening videos are on board to help us cultivate our inner green thumb.  Engaging the sense of smell and touch with fresh herbs is known to spark interest in more healthy recipes.

terra trellis

Preserved to Perfection

A focus on freshness comes with the need for food preservation systems to maintains taste, texture and nutrients.  Sub Zero is one of our favorites as a pioneer in multiple evaporator and air purifying systems. Refrigeration with separate zones will maximum freshness with controlled humidity to reduce the moisture that accelerates food deterioration.  There is also a renewed interest in kitchens with areas of bulk cold storage and compact individual refrigerator units.  Think of canned goods, beverages, wine and snacks all maintained at the proper temperature for maximum shelf-life.

food preservation sub zero

The Joy of Cooking

In the era of grocery and meal kit delivery, there is more time for the pure pleasure of cooking. Convection, steam and induction methods are speeding up the process with superior taste and nutrition.  Technology adds novelty to the experience with voice controlled faucets and programmable appliances. The kitchen plan can encourage cooking efforts of multiple-generations in the household as they work together re-creating traditional family recipes.

display healthy food in the open

Touchy Feely

While we are tuned-in to the visual appearance of a kitchen, the tactile experience is just as valuable to well-being.  There is nothing as satisfying as drawer glides that operate smoothly and the secure fit of a well made cabinet door.  Substantial hardware with a solid accessible grip offers ease of operation.  In this kitchen we use knobs and pulls from Emtek in the classic Ribbon & Reed design.

easy and accessible healthy snacks

To see more healthy living designs stop in to our state-of-the-art showroom.  We are open to the public and have endless inspiration for cabinetry design in every room of your home.

262-245-9600

201 Geneva National Ave. S.

Lake Geneva, WI 53147

Others who contributed to the success of this project

Lowell Custom Homes

Plato Woodwork, Inc.

JC Plumbing & Heating

Bella Tile & Stone

Carrera Extra Marble from Levantina Stone Center & Fabricated by Old World Stone

Wolf Range and SubZero Refrigeration

Emtek Hardware

 

Photography by Shanna Wolf S.Photography and Styling

 

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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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Top 10 Tips – Prepare Your Kitchen for Holiday Entertaining

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It’s time to enjoy the holiday party season . . . even when you’re the host! If your guests are like most, they will gather around your busy kitchen. Our advanced planning ideas will let you enjoy their company while you entertain stress-free for the holidays!

Our Top 10 Tips (and the estimated amount of time for planning)*

clear counter space Medallion Cabinetry Kitchen island#1 Clean clutter from countertops (1 hr to clean/1hr to decorate)

This is the most important step. Keep your countertops clutter-free in your beautiful holiday kitchen!  Pack away non-holiday decorative accessories. Keep your work surfaces free and ready for service at a moments notice. Baking, gift-wrapping, food preparation and food service all need this space. Keep countertop holiday décor minimal and use the vertical surfaces to hang wreaths, ornaments and other holiday sentiments from removable hooks.

 

holiday kitchen preparations clean out the refrigerator Plato cabinet refrigerator wood panel and drawers

#2 Refrigerator/Freezer purge (1hr)

What is lurking in the back of that refrigerator and freeze? Time to eat it or toss it. Make way for this seasons delectable treats. Holiday cookies can be prebaked and stored in your roomy freezer while prearranged serving trays will be wrapped and ready to go as soon as guests arrive.

 

holiday kitchen preparations clean the oven stove top and appliances Medallion cabinets

#3 Clean and shine cooking appliances! (2hrs)

Nothing feels as fresh as clean appliances! Run the oven cleaning cycle right now, don’t wait until its time to bake the rum cake. Do a deep cleaning for the dishwasher, microwave and even the toaster oven. While you’re at it, find the instruction manuals so you can master the defrost cycle and meat probe before you’re under pressure.

 

holiday kitchen preparations recipes cookware ready

#4 Find your favorite recipes and cookware (30 minutes or all night if you’re on Pinterest)

Pull out those family recipes and scan the Internet for new ideas. Print out, place bookmarks and make an extra copy for markup during cooking and shopping. Find all of the cookware you will use, sharpen the knives and find the turkey baster in advance. Devote a section of your clean countertop to the cooking essentials arranged by recipe so you can smoothly execute each move.

 

holiday kitchen preparations refresh spices and condiments Plato Woodworking cabinetry in white painted finish

#5 Inventory spices & condiments (15 minutes)

Now that you are recipes ready, maximize your cooking efforts with fresh ingredients. Spices do expire and so does that ketchup Uncle Marv wants to put on your prime rib roast . . . no judgment.

 

holiday kitchen preparations display cabinet serving dishes r

#6 Serving pieces front and center (15 minutes)

You know the fabulous platter you uncovered at an estate sale, where did that go? Find it now and place it, along with your other favorite serving pieces, within easy reach at the front of your cabinet. Wash, polish and ready for plating.

 

iday kitchen preparations serving trays ready glasses cleaned Black cabinetry with metallic door in gloss metal

#6 1/2 Serving trays

Ditto, we just want to show you this cool tray storage cabinet.

 

holiday kitchen preparations kitchen desk converts to snack coffee bar or desert area

#7 Double duty kitchen zone (15 minutes)

Dedicate a specialty area of your kitchen to a new purpose for party time. The kitchen-planning desk becomes a perfect location for a hot chocolate, coffee or desert bar.

 

holiday kitchen preparations beverage bar cabinetry WoodMode cabinetry bar cabinet and serving storage with mini under counter refrigerator

#8 Beverage Bar (30 minutes)

Visibility will encourage your guests to help themselves and free you up for other hosting duties. Wash and dry wine and cocktail glasses with a lint free towel. Gather and conveniently arrange all ingredients for your featured cocktails.

 

holiday kitchen preparations Scotman ice maker refrigerator drawer built in cabinetry bar

#9 Artisan Ice – It’s a thing (5 Minutes and then maybe another 5 + 5 + 5 + 5)

Hardness, density, melt-time . . .  your drink connoisseurs will notice!   At the very least, empty the old ice from your bin. Take it to the next level by preparing your own cubes with boiled-distilled water or invest in one of the new generation ice-makers that will do all of the work for you.

 

holiday kitchen preparations pull out trash bin Plato Woodwork cabinetry double recycle cabinet door front with insert of woven fiber

#10 Last but not least-trash talk (15 minutes)

It may not be glamorous, but it needs more than a stick up deodorizer. Wash and disinfect trash and recycle containers to prevent unwelcome odors from polluting your holiday buffet. Pick up an extra large bin to place out of sight for the easy disposal of bulky items when you are entertaining a big group.

So there you have it!  Devote a couple of hours for a few days or one good Saturday and you’re ready!

Now enjoy the entire holiday season with no last minute hassles!

 

*Disclaimer – all time estimates assume you have the ideal Geneva Cabinet Kitchen!

 

If you are thinking of gifting yourself a new kitchen for the holidays,

we can help from planning, to selection, to installation!

 

Geneva Cabinet Company, LLC

(262) 245-9600

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