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Plan Kitchen Lighting in Layers

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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

 

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Open Plan Kitchen Guidelines

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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

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The Multi-zone Kitchen

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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

 

 

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Touch Free is Germ Free

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Touching things is so 2019.  Because of Covid-19, home design is moving quickly towards touch free operations.  Why add extra surfaces to sanitize?  Now you can use a wave or your hand, voice control or proximity sensors to put everyday tasks in motion.  Here are a few of our favorites!

Faucets

Kohler Sensate Touchless Pull-Down Sink Faucet

We mentioned faucets in last month’s blog about the New Normal for Your Home.  It’s still at the top of our list, such an easy and relatively inexpensive addition to any kitchen that will reduce the spread of germs.

 

Pressure Push Cabinet Latch

Pass on hardware and opt for an easy to operate push latch that can open cabinet doors with a touch of the knee or hand.

 

 

Trash Cans

They can be messy under the best conditions, so why not use a wave of your hand or even voice control for an assist when your hands are full.

 

Paper Towel Dispenser

And now that paper towels are back in stock, wouldn’t it be nice to have this touch free dispenser?

Soap Dispensers

Frequent hand washing makes the soap dispenser another hotbed for germs, add the smooth operation of a touchless dispenser to your wish list.  This can also be used for hand sanitizer!

 

Refrigerator and Wine Cooler Doors

If you’re in the market for a new refrigerator be sure to check out the technology that allows you to look inside with a knock on the window or open the door with a proximity sensor at your foot.

 

Water Closets aka the Toilet

American Standard Clean Activate Touchless

Perhaps the best idea yet, a motion activated system for your toilet.  Your existing tank can even be retrofitted with a touchless flush kit.

Mirror Mirror

Moving into the bath, this mirror lights up when it senses you’re near and it has the most flattering light!

 

Hey Alexa & Ok Google

 

 

And let’s not forget to incorporate some of the home systems that can be run by Alexa or Google Assist.  Another easy way  to take advantage of hands free operations for everything from the coffee machine to lighting.

 

 

Our showroom is under renovation so we can bring you the latest products and ideas for your kitchen and bath!  Until then 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

 

We do not endorse or recommend any of the mentioned products specifically and there are no affiliated links in our posts.

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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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We are featured in Houzz!

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It is such an honor when the writers at Houzz hand pick our projects to be featured in their editorial ideabooks. Take a look at all of these relaxing baths and be sure to notice the special features we included in bath #9!

 

 

As part of a home remodel by Lowell Custom Homes, Geneva Cabinet Company was selected to design and provide cabinetry for the kitchen, baths and laundry of a lovely French Country style home.

In the master bath we feature an overall crisp white impression with luxury finishes and plenty of storage. The double vanity is created with custom cabinetry from Plato Woodwork, Inc using the Newport style door with concealed soft close hinges in an Arctic White painted finish.

Countertops are Carrera Extra Marble from Levantina in Bensenville, IL. The natural stone countertop and tub deck with a 3cm ogee edge was fabricated by Old World Stone in Huntley, IL. The most flattering illumination is provided by a combination of recessed lighting and shaded sconces mounted to the mirror. The gorgous tile is from Bella Tile & Stone, our neighboring showroom in Lake Geneva, WI.

While the master bath was showcased, you will not want to miss the rest of the cabinetry design in this lovely home.

Plato Woodwork, Inc. cabinetry is featured in the kitchen as well. We contrast the perimeter Dove White painted cabinetry with a walnut island. Difiniti Quartz countertops in the color Viarreggio were selected for the kitchen.

And the laundry room of this home is equally impressive. The same high quality Plato Woodworking products are used for durability in the hardest working room of the home. This absolutely bring beauty and impressive quality to everyday housekeeping and laundry tasks!

To see the details of this home’s impressive cabinetry click here

 

And to see the entire home built by Lowell Custom Homes click here.

Our designers are ready to help with your home improvements, no matter what room you’re updating!

We are delighted to work directly with homeowners or with design specialists.

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

Also pictured is a Wolf Range and SubZero Refrigeration

Photography by Shanna Wolf S.Photography and Styling

 

 

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