Posts

Outdoor Kitchen Perks

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

Increase Living Space

outdoor kitchen expands living space

Geneva Cabinet Company, Lowell Custom Homes, Shanna Wolf Photography    

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

Fluid Space for Entertaining

outdoor kitchen for more space to entertain

Geneva Cabinet Company, Lowell Custom Homes, Shanna Wolf Photography

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

Increase Healthy Outdoor Time

Outdoor kitchen helps spend more quality time outdoors

Geneva Cabinet Company, Lowell Custom Homes, Shanna Wolf Photography

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

Energy Saving

Outdoor Kitchens saves energy

Geneva Cabinet Company, Lowell Custom Homes

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

Make the Most of Spring and Summer

Outdoor Kitchens Make the Most of Spring and Summer

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

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

Designed to Fit Your Home

Outdoor Kitchens designed to fit your needs

Geneva Cabinet Company, Lowell Custom Homes, Shanna Wolf Photography

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

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

262-245-9600

 

 

 

/0 Comments/by

Home Renovations Beyond Cabinetry

,

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.

Before and after home renovations by Geneva Cabinet Company

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.

home renovations in kitchen and moving bath to enlarge spaces

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.

enlarged kitchen space and raised ceiling

New wood flooring extents throughout the home along with special ceiling treatments, updated woodworking, and lighting.

home renovations with new cabinetry in kitchen

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.

island with undercounted refrigerator and microwave drawer

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

home renovation include new flooring in the living room

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.

living room renovation by Geneva Cabinet

Guest Bedroom and Bath

enlarged guest bedroom

The guest bedroom now feels open and airy while the relocated bath features a bright modern attitude.

guest bath renovation

Entry Hall

Upgrading the entry as part of the home renovation offers visitors a preview of the new sunny disposition.

entry hall remodel

. . . with a little added surprise

two way closet

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

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.

Photography Shanna Wolf

Cabinetry Plato Woodwork, Inc.

Tile Bella Tile Lake Geneva

 

/0 Comments/by

Kitchen & Bath Trends

, , ,

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.

 

/0 Comments/by

Plan Kitchen Lighting in Layers

, ,

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!

 

 

Cabinetry in this project is Inovae from Plato Woodwork Inc.

Photography by Josh Z Photography

Design by Joyce Zuelke, ckd

 

/1 Comment/by

Open Plan Kitchen Guidelines

, ,

If you hear a rumor that open floor plans are going out of style, don’t believe it!  The fact is open planning, especially around the kitchen, is more popular than ever.  While the past 18 months revealed the value of private space, the kitchen is still a place for social gatherings.

 Just be sure to make it work by following our guidelines.

Design Plan

As this plan shows, an open kitchen is about more than just the kitchen space.  It is about the entire area flowing together for a cheerful home.  The focus is on comfort and efficiency, with a good dash of style.

We like the idea of a Multi-Zoned kitchen.  This concept was discussed in our past blog, read it here.

Now, think in terms of carrying the multi-zoned idea to the entire open space of your home plan.  The kitchen is commonly defined by cabinetry.  The other areas of an open plan can be indicated in several other ways.  Furniture groupings, area rugs, art and shelving can designate areas for conversation, work/study and entertainment.

Zones Not Walls

Kitchen zones are great for organizing your space according to food preparation, cooking, clean-up and dining. Even a snack bar helps with family self-service to relieve the cook.  Note that this kitchen even has a peaceful little nook.

This plan also features refrigerator drawers in the snack bar and a casual dining area for one stop treats.

Plan Storage for a Tidy Open Plan

Keeping the open plan orderly is essential.  Pull-out storage provides easy access and encourages everyone to put things back in place.

Flow Through Space

Effortless movement from one area to another is the key to a successful open plan.  To accomplish this we recommend keeping furnishings and storage units low to allow clear sight lines throughout the space.

Scale and Proportion

Cabinetry contributes to the overall appearance of the space and will help set the style.  Along with this, furniture selected for the open plan should maintain the proper proportions.  A kitchen island is fairly large and can be nicely balanced with comfy upholstery.

Lighting

We like the layered approach to lighting described here.   This tactic allows the most versatility with different options depending on the time of day or use of space.

Style it Right

 Finally, continue the color and style concept throughout the entire open space.  In general, Traditional and Modern styles mix well with other style genres.  That explains why these are so popular when it’s time to choose cabinetry.  Mix in your personalized preferences for a little Farmhouse or a touch of Industrial and create your personalized look.

The designers at Geneva Cabinet Company are here to take your cabinetry to the next level with exceptional design.  Call anytime for more information!

262-245-9600

Designer Natalie Spiniolas

Photography by Shanna Wolf/S. Photography

Cabinetry in this project is from Plato Custom Woodwork

/0 Comments/by

Open Air and Outdoor Kitchens are Hot

, , ,

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

 

 

 

/0 Comments/by

The Multi-zone Kitchen

, ,

The kitchen work triangle will never go out of style, but a new concept in kitchen design is emerging and we think you’ll like it.  It takes the idea of work zones to the next level.  Traditionally the work triangle included efficient spacing between the refrigerator, sink and range.  But this new approach is expanding that idea to include designated areas for other common kitchen tasks.  With everyone spending more time at home, the addition of specialty stations for drinks, snack, homework and work-at-home is gaining momentum. This is a real plus, especially when we are spending more time at home and all using the kitchen at once.

Kitchen Zones

Multiple and flexible zones are a personalized way to design a kitchen that includes sophisticated storage, integrated appliances and statement backsplashes.  This lovely example features Shiloh Cabinetry for a remodel by Stebnitz Builders.

 

Cooking Zone

Featuring backsplash by Bella Tile and Stone and a range hood by Raw Urth

 

Food Storage Zone

Consumable food storage includes refrigeration and pantry cabinets.

Food Prep Zone

The food preparation zone can be a short distance from cooking zone to allow multiple cooks to work at the same time.

 

Cleaning Zone

A centralized location that allows for free movement between work surfaces, dishwasher and trash.

Storage Zone

Non-consumables storage houses cooking and dining essentials.

 

Storage and Coffee Bar

Specialty areas follow along with each homeowners interests.

 

Dining and Multi-Use Island Surface

A grand island offers casual dining and an expansive work surface for homework, work-at-home or craft projects.

Beverage Bar and Refreshment Station

An additional area adjacent to the main living space can relieve congestion and centralize snack and beverage options.

 

Kitchen Plan Overview

If you are considering a new design for your kitchen, bath or any other storage spaces in your home, be sure to stop in to talk to the designers at Geneva Cabinet Company.

Visit our Inspiration Gallery here

And set up an appointment to visit with our designers by contacting our showroom here.

Photography by Josh Z

 

 

/0 Comments/by

Pantries With Personality

, ,

The pantry comes out of hiding and into the home’s spotlight.    It is one of the latest home spaces to get some well-deserved attention.  While space is the deciding factor for size, good design will ensure that you always have a place to hide the cookies.

Open Air Pantry

You would never guess that this kitchen extension houses the most generous storage within custom Plato Woodwork, Inc. cabinetry. No more cluttered countertops, everything has just the right spot for well-organized daily efficiency.

 

Show Off Storage

On the other hand, a dedicated pantry allows you to peruse stock easily.  You’ll never have to fumble around in the dark back corners of you cabinet when all is visible at a glance on spacious open shelving.  You can use built-ins, cabinetry with open shelving or even repurpose furniture to outfit the space.

Adjustable shelving is a bonus for maximizing space by fitting it to the perfect height to store canisters, baskets and appliances.

The Multipurpose Pantry

Be sure to take advantage of every nook and cranny in your home.  Often you can borrow space from another room to fit in organized storage.  Combine pantry area with your laundry, home office or mudroom for a highly efficient space.

 

Best Kept Secret Pantry

What looks like an beautiful but ordinary cabinet door is in fact the pass through to a splendid floor-to-ceiling pantry space.  We made this happen with custom cabinetry from Plato Woodwork, Inc and the fine construction team at Lowell Custom Homes.

 

Be Bold

We believe in treating small spaces with an element of surprise.  Let your fun side shine through with a bold pattern or colorful design.  Sorting groceries will be your feel-good moment of the day.

 

One Final Tip – Use Consistent Containers

A trip to The Container Store or your local hardware will help you make the most of your space with consistent container sizes.  Mix and match a few styles with the same shape so they will fit closely together to maximize your space.

 

Without a doubt, the pantry is having its day!  Generous storage for daily items and space for emergency surplus (like toilet paper) will never go out of style.  If you are considering a new design for your kitchen, pantry or any other storage spaces in your home, be sure to stop in to talk to the designers at Geneva Cabinet Company.

Visit our Inspiration Gallery here

And set up an appointment to visit with our designers by contacting our showroom here.

 

 

 

Photography by Shanna Wolf

We do not use affiliate links and never share your information, so feel safe to subscribe to our monthly blog!

/0 Comments/by

Out With the Island, In With the Fun!

, , ,

The idea of losing a kitchen island might be disappointing for some people, but our homeowner was actually reenergized by the open space!

Remodeling this 1990’s kitchen was the finishing touch for a lake house renovation. While the original layout worked, the redesign by Joyce Zuelke, ckd created a fresh and seamlessly efficient design.

This kitchen proves that an island is not the solution to every kitchen remodel. The redesign created an open floor that improved circulation in this bustling center of family activity.  We were even able to hold renovation costs down by not moving the plumbing and electrical.

Removing the tiny island opened the kitchen up to receive a whole new look from Shiloh Cabinetry.

Scooching the refrigerator over provided space for a full height pantry.

We included roll out shelving for improved organization and accessibility.

Placing the microwave under the counter means clear counter space.  It minimizes visual clutter at eye level and also lets everyone enjoy the beautiful flowing Brittanica pattern on the Cambria quartz countertop.

Lighting was a priority.  It was greatly improved by adding a stylish wall mounted fixture above the sink and replacing the ceiling fan light with seven recessed cans.

The new peninsula added even more counter space with two stools for casual dining or conversation.  Adding the display cabinet above with glass doors allows our homeowner to feature her colorful collection of tableware.

Centering the range balances this kitchen perfectly and improves workspace on each side.

The slim hardware pulls in Brushed Nickel are from Schaub.

We’ve tucked extra storage into every corner of this kitchen, even under the peninsula overhang, it works well for storing small appliances.

 

What better endorsement for a remodel is there than the words of our lovely homeowner,

“Our two daughters and their families love the dramatic change.  I had become disinterested in cooking and baking, and now I want to spend my time doing just that for company and when our five grandsons, ages 4 to 10 visit.  Loving our kitchen!

Just call us when you need cabinetry inspiration for every room of your home.  Our team is always ready to help!

201 Geneva National Ave S

Lake Geneva, WI

262-245-9600

 

/0 Comments/by

Our Top 10 2020 Kitchen Trends

,

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

/0 Comments/by