While stainless steel kitchens are sleek and modern, appliance panels are a stylish way to add warmth and character.
Kitchens continue to evolve and mold to our lifestyles. They serve as an oasis, the go-to gathering spot for family and friends. As designers, we love pairing an open floorplan with beautiful cabinetry for an inviting space that encourages mingling and relaxation. Part of our secret is the use of wood panels, allowing appliances to effortlessly blend into the background. This creates overall warmth while maintaining complete functionality with our quality cabinetry.
Hiding in Plain Sight
Plato Woodwork, Inc., Shanna Wolf Photography
Stainless Steel is an immensely popular finish in the kitchen. While everyone loves the neutral look, it can overwhelm a space. Especially when using the newest commercial refrigeration systems. Furniture quality wood panels will match or compliment the cabinet design and allow even the most generous stretch of appliances to blend in to the surroundings.
Cohesive Design
Plato Woodwork, Inc., Shanna Wolf Photography
As an extension of the family room, we want kitchens to nurture us with integrated design. By placing appliances in the background, the overall vibe is more versatile than kitchens from previous decades.
Shiloh Cabinetry, Josh Z Photography
Noise Reduction
Shiloh Cabinetry, Shanna Wolf Photography
Decibel levels on appliances have improved over the years, yet we can reduce noise further with the application of wood appliance panels. They will help absorb vibrations for a more peaceful kitchen environment.
Elevated Protection
Shiloh Cabinetry, Josh Z Photography
Quality wood panels will protect your appliances with decades of durability. Even a high-traffic beverage bar can achieve an elegant appearance with easy-care cabinet finishes.
From beach towels to backpacks, we help you control mudroom clutter with storage to help the entire family get organized. Given its humble beginnings, the mudroom is now an essential space charged with moving you in and out of the house efficiently. No matter the size, we have cabinetry and design ideas for an attractive and organized launch pad.
First Impressions
Interior Design by North Shore Nest, Photo by Aimée Mazzenga
Even the smallest footprint deserves to be treated with orderly style. The designers at North Shore Nest elevate this informal entry with a blue and white scheme for a well-deserved mudroom appreciation moment.
Clutter Control Basics
Geneva Cabinet Company, Photo by Shana Wolf
Plenty of sturdy hooks and a bench for pulling on shoes will get your design off to a good start. From there, add cubbies above or below the hooks to accommodate frequently used items like shoes, bags and keys.
Design for Durability
Geneva Cabinet Company, Photo by Shanna Wolf
Durable and washable finishes are a must for this area. It’s often the only barrier between outdoor debris and your lovely interior finishes. Select easy to clean materials that are immune to seasonal wear and tear. Tile and luxury vinyl plank flooring are popular choices in the mudroom. For the walls consider a quality semi-gloss and be sure to select cabinetry or lockers with a resilient finish.
Incorporate Cabinetry
Geneva Cabinet Company, Photo Shanna Wolf
When space allows, cabinetry helps to control mudroom clutter with storage for sporting equipment, school supplies and a wide variety of footwear for all seasons. Every household has unique priorities and cabinetry is sure to improve convenience. Discuss home improvement possibilities with your Geneva Cabinet designer for storage solutions to accommodate every season.
Connect With Color
Geneva Cabinet Company, Photo by Shanna Wolf
A bold color will draw attention and highlight storage space. There is no excuse for throwing coats in a pile when a dazzling storage center is in clear view. A color cue will remind everyone of Benjamin Franklins wisdom, “A place for everything, and everything in its place.”
Customize Your Storage
Geneva Cabinet Company, Photo by
Configure your mudroom with chic bins and baskets that will sort paraphernalia and fit neatly into cubbies. Possibilities are easy to find with a browse through Targets Studio McGee Collection or Etsy.
Stretch Your Space
Geneva Cabinet Company, Photo by Shanna Wolf
When the entry is compact, consider borrowing nearby space to satisfy storage needs. We love the solution for this collection of thermal drinkware, naturally a priority for any lake home.
Combo Space
Geneva Cabinet Company, Photo Shanna Wolf
The mudroom and laundry area are a classic combination. This is ideal for tossing sandy beach towels or muddy sportswear right into the wash. We share more of our favorite ideas in this Laundry Room Design Guide.
Visit our award winning Lake Geneva showroom for inspiration.
Contact us for an appointment with a design expert today!
Style and storage work together as a top priority for kitchen design in 2024. This is the place where daily life happens, from morning coffee to evening gatherings with friends. It truly is the heart of the home, and a makeover investment will reward you immediately. Launch each day with efficiency and wind down at sunset knowing everything is complete and it its place.
If remodeling the kitchen is on your wish list this year, follow along as we share our latest designer approved trends.
Plato Woodwork Inc Cabinetry, Shanna Wolf Photography
Personalized with Functional Storage
Plato Woodwork Inc, Bella Tile & Stone, Shana Wolf Photography
What is functional storage? We like to think of it as cabinetry that makes sense for your personal style of cooking, snacking, and lounging around. Overcrowded cabinets waste time and energy while you search for what you need. We recommend extra deep drawers to accommodate bulky essentials and specialized pullouts so necessities are in view.
Plato Woodwork Inc Cabinetry
Imagine a clutter free existence where you can find everything you need at first glance.
We would love that for you!
The Back Kitchen Takes Center Stage
Plato Woodwork Inc, Shanna Wolf Photography
The Back Kitchen is moving forward as a place to operate behind the scenes. The purpose is to help the main kitchen become a clutter-free living space. The back kitchen includes extra storage and workspace that is a bit more spacious than a standard butler’s pantry. It’s the ideal place to keep large serving pieces, extra pantry stock and the messy part of food prep.
A (Back) Splash of Character
Bella Tile & Stone Backsplash, Shanna Wolf Photography
Tile treatments have evolved into an art of their own. Placing a unique tile on the backsplash is an ideal way to express personal style and set the tone of the kitchen. In our latest remodel, backsplash tile from Bella Tile & Stone pairs with an arched window and high-quality custom cabinetry from Plato Woodwork Inc to take centerstage and command attention.
Adjust the Mood with Layered Lighting
Remodeled Kitchen with Versatile Lighting, Shanna Wolf Photography
The freshest idea for kitchen lighting is versatility. We don’t always need 100%. The idea of a sconce in the kitchen or interior cabinet lighting adds flexibility according to mood.
Design Details Adding Dimension
Attention to detail is how design is elevated from average to exceptional. This includes cabinet selection, hardware, lighting and also the care taken for a precise kitchen layout. Is there a blender outlet close to the smoothie supplies? Can two cooks work together without a standoff at the sink? A well-designed kitchen is customized for your unique habits, function and style.
Kitchen Design by Joyce Zuelke, ckbd
When it’s time to reward yourself with a new kitchen, talk to our designers for the most personalized solutions.
Our showroom has beautiful displays to help you select the ideal storage and style for your home. Here you will experience the touch and feel of each cabinet and see all of the luxurious finishes available.
Your laundry room design can save time and lighten your load!
Do you like keep up with laundry daily or dedicate one time per week to conquer this challenge?
The answer to this and other key factors will influence the design.
How many people live in your home?
Is anyone or everyone involved in fitness or sports?
Does everyone at home have enough basics to get through the week?
Do allergies or sensitivities require special laundry handling?
Is most clothing “easy-care” or “handle-with-care”?
This information will help your Geneva Cabinet designer guide you to the right solutions.
For details about where to locate your laundry room and how large it should be, check our past blog. But for now, let’s take a look at the latest pick-me-ups for wash day.
Make Functional Fabulous
Plato Woodwork, Lowell Custom Homes, Shanna Wolf Photography
In the past, the laundry was consigned to the basement or squeezed into the mudroom. We prefer a fresh approach that will place a positive spin on the task. Since laundry is inevitable, why not make the task more pleasant? Go from functional to fabulous by adding color and pattern to your space. Easy-to-clean wallcovering is the perfect backdrop for durable cabinetry.
Kippps Bay Showhouse, Designer David Fazier, Staff Photo
This year the Kipps Bay Showhouse flooded the laundry room with a matching pattern for wallcovering and fabric. The cafe style curtain hides washer, dryer and sorting bins behind a classic acanthus pattern from Sloan.
Laundry Room Multitasking
Woodmode, Lowell Custom Homes, Elizabeth Drake Interior Design, Victoria McHugh Photography
Laundry space is the ideal place for multitasking. This is a natural for built in flexibility. The sink can be used to presoak and rinse clothes, as well as potting plants or cleaning art supplies. Cabinetry will conceal laundry while providing space for games and craft supplies. A home office, art studio, or craft station would all be compatible, with plenty of shared counter space.
Laundry Innovations
Fall in love with a 2-in-1 Washer/Dryer from the GE Profile collection. This new generation of appliances offers space saving convenience, energy savings, a smart dispenser to hold enough detergent and softener for up to 32 loads, and antimicrobial technology. Especially notable is the HQ app to keep you appliance software updated.
Das Holz Haus Cabinetry, Lowell Custom Homes, North Shore Nest Interior Design, Photo by Aimee Mazzenga
Adding a second laundry room, right where the messiness happens, is a real time saver. Popular spots include the Primary Bath, Second Floor Bedroom Hallway, and Pool Bath. This feature is growing in popularity. Processing laundry in the same zone eliminates the extra step of carting it around, while conserving personal energy.
Storage Features
For a weekly laundry schedule, concealed storage is the key to organization. The addition of a drip dry rod and pull-out hampers will keep the room streamline and clutter free.
Shiloh Cabinets, Josh Z Photography – Plato Woodwork, Shanna Wolf Photography
Open Shelving is designed for easy access. It’s the perfect fit for a daily laundry habit.
Gone are the days when utility sinks on stilts were the standard. In today’s modern laundry room, ergonomics wins. A sink built into the cabinet is good for pre-washing and stain fighting without a deep back bend. The cabinet base naturally improves storage and increases counter space for folding. For an extra bonus, choose a sink as beautiful as this hammer copper!
Pet Stations
For those with furry friends, adding a pet washing station is a nice fit for a spacious laundry room. This large basin can also be used for cleaning outdoor equipment and muddy boots as well as pets. Tile walls will wipe down easily after the final shimmy and shake dry.
The kitchen is the command center for home activity, so when summer rolls around make the swap to an outdoor kitchen for a refreshing change. This upgrade will improve your attitude, and potentially your home’s value.
Increase Living Space
Geneva Cabinet Company, Lowell Custom Homes, Shanna Wolf Photography
Often backyards don’t live up to their full potential. Create outdoor rooms that will bring dormant property to life. When planning, place the outdoor kitchen in an area that is easy to access from indoors. For more tips see our Outdoor Kitchen Guide.
Fluid Space for Entertaining
Geneva Cabinet Company, Lowell Custom Homes, Shanna Wolf Photography
Social events are more appealing when guests can flow between spaces. An event that begins indoors suddenly becomes more relaxed as guests follow the sun. Adding an outdoor gathering space expands your entertainment opportunities for more fun with family and friends.
Increase Healthy Outdoor Time
Geneva Cabinet Company, Lowell Custom Homes, Shanna Wolf Photography
Spending time outdoors improves health and well-being. Take everyday activities alfresco to boost your energy along with many other proven health benefits.
Energy Saving
Geneva Cabinet Company, Lowell Custom Homes
Cooking outdoors will keep the heat out of the kitchen on a steamy summer day. Save on air conditioning while the grill multitasks for meal preparation. Plus, grilled food has its own deliciously unique flavor!
Make the Most of Spring and Summer
Geneva Cabinet Company, Lowell Custom Homes, Photo by Aimee Mazzenga
While the weather is pleasant, take advantage of every day with an outdoor kitchen surrounded with comfortable seating. Adding a fireplace or heater will extend your seasons from the beginning of spring through the early days of winter.
Designed to Fit Your Home
Geneva Cabinet Company, Lowell Custom Homes, Shanna Wolf Photography
Geneva Cabinet Company will design the perfect outdoor kitchen to fit your space and budget. Tuck one into an existing outdoor niche or have our designers create a layout to perfectly suite your needs.
Contact us and we’ll help you get this project started!
A space may be charming, but not living up to its full potential. That’s when the experts at Geneva Cabinets Company work their magic. Your home renovations will go beyond cabinetry when you look to Geneva Cabinets for a one-stop-shopping experience.
It’s about more than replacing cabinetry. Geneva Cabinets wants you to have an entire space that is beautiful and flows seamlessly from room to room. New kitchen cabinets certainly improved the outlook for this kitchen, while our designers take it a step further reimagining the entire home.
Address the Space
When it comes to this home’s renovation, relocating the bath was a key decision.
Once the kitchen was open and spacious, the rest of the home was ready for a refresh. This included lifting the ceiling, new windows, flooring, and lighting. The kitchen roofline was raised into a gable adding visual space along with a series of sunny skylights.
New wood flooring extents throughout the home along with special ceiling treatments, updated woodworking, and lighting.
The cabinetry is custom from Plato Woodwork Inc. Perimeter cabinetry is painted in timeless Essential White with an island in Blue Nose from Benjamin Moore . Hardware from Schaub in Satin Brass is a nod to Lake Geneva’s nautical perspective.
In addition to being a fabulous workspace, this island is a natural gathering point with undercounted refrigerator, microwave drawer and plenty of storage. The exaggerated thickness in the island’s Cambria countertop is our latest obsession. It is such a modern statement that exudes luxury.
Beyond the Kitchen
A impressive part of this home renovation is the new flooring flowing into the living room, where molding details and hearth also receive an upgrade.
Guest Bedroom and Bath
The guest bedroom now feels open and airy while the relocated bath features a bright modern attitude.
Entry Hall
Upgrading the entry as part of the home renovation offers visitors a preview of the new sunny disposition.
. . . with a little added surprise
Sometimes it’s the little things that make you smile. A guest bedroom doesn’t really need a dedicated closet, so some clever shared storage is included. Contents are accessible from the entry hall or the guest room!
Attention to Detail
As with every kitchen and bath installation, the team at Geneva Cabinet attends to the little details. The new wood floor deserves a perfectly set in air vent that blends visually without obstruction to the path of circulation.
For a seamless home renovation experience, start in our Lake Geneva showroom. It’s bursting with inspirational product displays and a friendly team to guide you from design to installation.
Every year the Kitchen & Bath Industry exhibits trends and product innovations from around the world. Our team of experts in design and construction returned from the show ready to share the latest ideas and state-of-the-art products.
Color is Making a Comeback
This year held a complete surprise after years of neutrals dominating the kitchen and bath industry. Kohler celebrated their 150 year anniversary with a display of historic color fixtures and the opportunity to vote for favorites.
Over 100,000 votes were cast for Peachblow which was originally circulated between 1934 to 1973. The runner up was Spring Green originally available between 1927 and 1944. Both will be available this spring in limited collections.
If you prefer a more classic approach, you’ll love the colors inspired by fascinating world destinations. A collaboration between Conde Nast Travel and House of Rohl Victoria + Albert Collection presents a beautifully curated palette allowing you to customize the design of your personal escape.
Finishes Make Headlines
There is life beyond Brushed Nickel! We spotted new colorful fixtures around the show with a fresh batch of options for kitchen and bath fixtures and hardware. This is especially exciting because now simply updating faucets and hardware can give you a fresh look. Mat finishes are trending, especially in black. This blends easily with styles from modern to farmhouse. Vessel sinks are inspired by precious metals and Murano glass for an artistic touch to any bath.
The Kitchen Workstation Reigns
Options are everything and the kitchen workstation concept is growing in popularity. This takes the kitchen sink beyond wash-up to a convenient food prep station. The Galley Workstation has expanded their accessory line while several new companies are joining the field. Now you are truly able to streamline your kitchen experience.
Induction Cooktops
Aside from advanced cooking technology, this new induction cooktop from Monogram Appliances features a design friendly color with sleek swipe controls. Induction cooks from a magnetic field and can boil water in half the time as a conventional cooktop. These units are beautifully energy efficient. There is also a safety advantage since it will not heat up without a pot on the element. The surface never gets hot enough to the touch for an accidental burn. This is a real plus households with children. As for the negatives, this is a different type of cooking that may not blend with your style. Switching from gas to electric will be an expense and you may also need to invest in induction compatible cookware.
The Shower Experience
Innovative shower systems will turn the bathroom niche into a luxurious escape. Shower heads from Brizo deliver water patterns that vary from invigorating to gentle mist. Add a linear wall drain that easily blends into your floor and wall tile pattern.
Integrated Lighting
Advanced lighting systems make it possible to integrate lighting into every area of the home, even the shower. Task, mood and general lighting are offered in versatile LED systems that can even be installed with motion sensors.
Advanced Technology
The Technology Pavilion at KBIS 2023 was a favorite stop where visitors experienced the future look for our homes. Here, brands exhibited their latest innovations and smart home solutions. Compact speed ovens, temperature controlled wine storage and built-in coffee makers all add up to everyday ease.
For all of the latest news and innovative products, visit our Lake Geneva Showroom and talk to our team of experts!
We are happy to set up an appointment to discuss all of your personal home design needs, just contact us here.
Kitchen lighting takes center stage as part of this years trend for brighter spaces. But the kitchen has some unique challenges. As the heart of the home it must be multifunctional. Geneva Cabinet designers are familiar with all of the detailed requirements and like to develop each cabinet plan with lighting in mind. It’s not an afterthought. Lighting should be integrated at the planning phase of every kitchen design.
These guidelines will help you plan lighting for the most important room in your home.
Layers of Light for Your Design
The key is to blend various light sources that will overlay all of your needs. The basic approach involves 3 types of lighting for any room. Ambient (general lighting), Accent (highlighting points of interest), and Task (performance zones). We like to add a 4th, Feature. Feature lighting will make a statement that defines the mood and attitude of your design.
1. Ambient or General Lighting
Ambient lighting is usually overhead and provides a shadow-free environment. This can be a combination of recessed lighting and fixtures. Use separate controls and dimmers for adjustability to vary the mood throughout the day. Full bright light for active kitchen hours and then softly dimmed for dining or entertaining.
Best Options
Ceiling or wall-mounted fixtures
Track lighting
Traditional recessed fixtures
LED downlights
Once your ambient lighting is placed, it’s time to layer in support lighting.
2. Accent Lighting
Often used to highlight points of interest or architectural features, accent lighting contributes a soft glow without glare. Coves, shelving, and artwork can be emphasized with accent lighting. Here again a dimmer will lend a variety of moods.
Best Options
LED Strips
Sconces
Picture lights
Track lights
3. Task Lighting
Task light is an essential part of the plan that focuses directly on prep areas. Usually, this lighting is located under the cabinets, close to the countertop for specific kitchen tasks. Chopping, blending and appliance operation is safer on an easy to see surface. The kitchen island is often treated with pendants for good visibility in this multi-task area.
Best Options
Pendant lighting
Under-cabinet lighting
Recessed fixtures
4. Feature Lighting
This is the opportunity to add personality to your space. Placed over an island, dining table or centered in the room, this fixture exudes character and often sets the style and tone for the entire space.
Best Options
Chandelier
Pendants
For more kitchen inspiration check our Gallery Page!
Visit our Lake Geneva showroom to see the latest in kitchen and bath design and meet our talented team for everything from design to installation!
We are so excited once again win this year for the Best Interior Design in Walworth County!
We appreciate everyone who participated in the vote!
Not everyone is aware of the design background of our team. We approach every project from a functional point of view first, and then guide you to a solution that is also beautiful. We love the idea of transforming your everyday rooms into spaces you long to be in.
We showcase the finest quality cabinetry in our Lake Geneva showroom, with so many beautiful finishes to choose from. There is no doubt that we can create a space you will want to show off to friends and family!
Unique solutions are our specialty. One of our high profile projects features a hidden pantry within the overall sleek and modern kitchen design.
From Kitchen, to bath, to every room, our talented designers will design the storage you need with the look you love!
Thank you for helping us win The Best of Walworth County Interior Design!
https://genevacabinet.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Ro-6-copy.jpg6671000Geneva Cabinet Companyhttps://genevacabinet.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/geneva-cabinets.pngGeneva Cabinet Company2021-11-09 11:35:572022-01-07 15:43:15Geneva Cabinet Wins Best Of Walworth County Interior Design!
If you hear a rumor that open floor plans are going out of style, don’t believe it! The fact is open planning, especially around the kitchen, is more popular than ever. While the past 18 months revealed the value of private space, the kitchen is still a place for social gatherings.
Just be sure to make it work by following our guidelines.
Design Plan
As this plan shows, an open kitchen is about more than just the kitchen space. It is about the entire area flowing together for a cheerful home. The focus is on comfort and efficiency, with a good dash of style.
We like the idea of a Multi-Zoned kitchen. This concept was discussed in our past blog, read it here.
Now, think in terms of carrying the multi-zoned idea to the entire open space of your home plan. The kitchen is commonly defined by cabinetry. The other areas of an open plan can be indicated in several other ways. Furniture groupings, area rugs, art and shelving can designate areas for conversation, work/study and entertainment.
Zones Not Walls
Kitchen zones are great for organizing your space according to food preparation, cooking, clean-up and dining. Even a snack bar helps with family self-service to relieve the cook. Note that this kitchen even has a peaceful little nook.
This plan also features refrigerator drawers in the snack bar and a casual dining area for one stop treats.
Plan Storage for a Tidy Open Plan
Keeping the open plan orderly is essential. Pull-out storage provides easy access and encourages everyone to put things back in place.
Flow Through Space
Effortless movement from one area to another is the key to a successful open plan. To accomplish this we recommend keeping furnishings and storage units low to allow clear sight lines throughout the space.
Scale and Proportion
Cabinetry contributes to the overall appearance of the space and will help set the style. Along with this, furniture selected for the open plan should maintain the proper proportions. A kitchen island is fairly large and can be nicely balanced with comfy upholstery.
Lighting
We like the layered approach to lighting described here. This tactic allows the most versatility with different options depending on the time of day or use of space.
Style it Right
Finally, continue the color and style concept throughout the entire open space. In general, Traditional and Modern styles mix well with other style genres. That explains why these are so popular when it’s time to choose cabinetry. Mix in your personalized preferences for a little Farmhouse or a touch of Industrial and create your personalized look.
The designers at Geneva Cabinet Company are here to take your cabinetry to the next level with exceptional design. Call anytime for more information!