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Working From Home Best Practices

Working remotely is not a new concept, but recent events brought this option to the forefront of business solutions.  In the past the thought was to devote an entire space to the home office,   but advances in connectivity have streamlined the amount of space needed to work from home.  Whether you are working at home permanently or just as a temporary measure, we want to help boost your productivity and mood with some of our favorite tips.

Define Your Space

You can now achieve your home work space needs with more efficient options.  If noise control is needed for conference calls or concentration, then a place away from household activities will be essential.  But if you can take an occasional interruption, there are more opportunity to tuck a work space into an unused niche or repurpose the kitchen island.

Plato Woodwork, Inc Cabinetry – Design by Joyce Zuelke, ckd – Interior Designer Judy Bethel

Ergonomics

Maintain proper posture with a chair that is adjustable and comfortable.  Pay careful attention to the position of your head and sight-lines to the computer screen or work surface.  Keep  hands and wrists in alignment, your lumbar supported and maintain the ability to place your feet solidly on the floor.   When possible alternate between a seated and standing position with the aid of a standing desk converter.  Keep work tools within easy reach to avoid pulled muscles.

Lighting

Good lighting is a must and should be appropriate for your specific tasks.  If you are working with a computer screen a lower level of illumination is acceptable as long as your work surfaces are well lit.  Whenever possible incorporate natural daylight to keep your energy levels up throughout the day.

 

Multifunctional Magic

Shiloh Cabinetry – Designed by Joyce Zuelke, ckd

When you can incorporate a work zone into another home area there will be cost and space efficiencies.  Think in terms of a rec room or laundry room that can be claimed for work during the day, while transitioning into extra space off-hours for laundry, crafts or homework.

Custom Home by Lowell Custom Homes – Interior Design by Elizabeth Drake

 

Organization

Storage is essential to reduce mental and physical clutter.  If you are sharing your office space with other home activities, gain control with cabinet pull-outs, bins or portable trollies to organize everything you need for peace of mind.

 

Enjoy the Moment

 

Feel a sense of calm instead of isolation by personalizing your work space with pictures, art and humorous notes to remind yourself that you have a unique and fortunate opportunity.  Get up to walk around a bit throughout the day and schedule breaks that include lunch away from your computer and a call to a friend or co-worker.

Explore more of our beautifully designed cabinetry here!

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

201 Geneva National Ave S

Lake Geneva, WI

262-245-9600

 

 

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Geneva Cabinet Wins The Best of Houzz 2020

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

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

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

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

See more of our favorite bathrooms here.

 

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

See the full project here.

 

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

See more of our favorite kitchens here.

 

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

See the details here.

 

This Refreshing Beverage Center takes a top spot.

See the full project here.

 

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

See more of our lovely bath cabinetry here.

 

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

For more kitchen ideas follow this.

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

See the full kitchen here.

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

201 Geneva National Ave S

Lake Geneva, WI

262-245-9600

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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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Holiday Countdown, Is Your Kitchen Ready?

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Survive the holidays by planning ahead and preparing your kitchen for the bashing it’s about to take! This doesn’t have to be painful, just follow along and start now!

 

Organize those spices, line up the labels and alphabetize if you must!   Just be sure you have a surplus of those often used holiday flavors  like cinnamon, nutmeg and vanilla.

 

Stock the pantry with ingredients for your favorite cooking and baking recipes.  When you have a large walk-in pantry you’ll have plenty of room for precious resources!

Take inventory of your cookware and bakeware to be sure you can accommodate new specialty recipes. We like to use a tall deep pantry cabinet for easy visibility and accessibility.

The same applies to serving pieces.  Gather your large platters into one location now so they are within reach when you’re ready to plate.

 

Be sure you small appliances are in working order, the slow cooker, blender, and mixers are all about to earn their cabinet position.

Make space in your refrigerator and freezer so you will have space to freeze cookies and pre-made dishes.

Plan for clean-up before the party starts with soaps, dishwasher detergent, disinfectants and extra towels.  Now may be the time to treat yourself to that special dishwasher, like the new Cove from SubZero that will clean and sanitize every plate in silence while your entertaining!

Plan your menu in advance to accommodate signature dishes with the most flattering serving pieces.

 

Happy Holiday Wishes

from all of us

at Geneva Cabinet Company!

Explore all of our ideas for organized storage right here!

Then 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

Featured Cabinetry is from Shiloh Cabinetry, Plato Woodwork, Inc & Medallion Cabinetry

Photography by Shanna Wolf/S.Photography and Styling

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Cheers to the Beverage Bar

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It’s a little luxury with a big pay off!  Beverage bars are a growing home trend that offers a stylish mix of character and convenience.   This element can be located anywhere in the home where a refreshing beverage is appreciated.  (For Beverage Protocol see Sheldon’s list from Big Bang)

Hot or not, a refreshing beverage is appropriate for everything from relaxation to celebration. What better way to accommodate than from a dedicated beverage bar.

The details of the design are entirely up to you.  Start with the thought of streamlining your daily routine and develop to suit your needs.  Here are a few of our favorite ideas!

Keep It Simple & Multipurpose

 

Elaborate with Specialized Refrigeration and Plenty of Storage

 

Place the Beverage Bar in an Active Area

 

. . . but Keep it Away from the Kitchen Traffic Pattern

 

Dedicate a Niche in the Dining Room

 

Add a Sink & Give the Butlers Pantry a New Purpose

Wrap it Around to Serve Morning Coffee or the Evening Wine Tasting

 

Tuck Away a Coffee Bar

Welcome Visitors in the Guest Room

And Don’t Forget the Kid’s Game Room

. . . or the Big Kid’s Game Room

For more of our favorite entertaining ideas click here!

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

Featured Cabinetry is from Shiloh Cabinetry, Plato Woodwork, Inc & Medallion Cabinetry

Photography by Shanna Wolf/S.Photography and Styling

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Vote for Geneva Cabinet Company – Best Interior Design in Walworth County

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We are honored to be nominated in the Interior Design division for the Best of Walworth County 2019!

This nomination is especially meaningful to us because it recognizes the exceptional talent and creativity of our interior design staff.

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

To become more familiar with our work browse our project Inspiration Gallery by clicking here.

 Our showroom is the ideal place to gather the knowledge and information you need for your home projects.   Stop in to visit and experience our design expertise firsthand.   Until then, let us introduce our talented staff.

Joyce Zuelke – Senior Designer & Showroom Manager

 

Natalie Spiniolas – Senior Designer

 

Stephanie Nelson – Associated Designer

 

Jennifer DiMeo – Associated Designer

 

Jessie Hopkins – Production Manager

 

 

Voting for the Best of Walworth County takes place this year through October 27th, 2019.  When you vote in at least 10 categories you will be automatically registered for a chance to win an amazon echo and a $75 gift card!

Best of luck to all who participate!

Geneva Cabinet Company, LLC.

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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Summer Kitchen Cool Down

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Summer has so much to offer, but you won’t find it hiding in your overheated kitchen. Step away from the oven and explore some of the coolest ways to plate a refreshing summer meal!

Eat Fresh

Farmer’s markets are a dream come true with their garden fresh veggies for a chop and eat meal.  No need to make this complicated, just browse these Cooking Light No Cook Salad recipes for inspiration.

 

Break Out the Countertop Appliances

Instapot and Air Fryer recipes were made for summer days.  Even blender smoothies can offer you instant gratification without tedious prep time.  Extend leisure time and keep it cool with a curated stash of cooking aids.  Store them in a convenient countertop cabinet for quick and easy access.

Take it Outdoors

Designer Joyce Zuelke, ckd designed the perfect way to beat the heat with this outdoor kitchen.  Enjoy the sunshine and fresh air while preparing a tasty meal.  You will love the special features of the latest weather resistant cabinetry by Danver. Not only is this built for longevity, the weatherproof storage is offered in a stunning variety of door styles and colors.

Your outdoor kitchen can be as simple or as elaborate as you like.

Be sure to follow our principles of good design for Outdoor Kitchens.

Photo from Danver Stainless Outdoor Kitchen with Key West Door in metallic bronze matte powder coated finish.

Keep it Cool for Desert

 

Fresh fruit with a dollop of flavored whipped cream is a classic summertime desert, but you can step it up with frozen treats.   For an icy cold adult option check out the boozy pop recipes right here.

 

Follow this link to our Outdoor Kitchen Design Guide  

and

stop by the showroom to touch and feel the cabinetry in our outdoor kitchen display!

262-245-9600

201 Geneva National Ave. S.

Lake Geneva, WI 53147

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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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