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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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What Do Our Designers Do?

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Should you use an interior designer for your cabinetry projects?

We believe a designer is essential to the success of any home project where you need the confidence and expertise to deal with layers of details.  Good design is a combination of the perfect layout, flawless interior selections, and the expertise of people who can make your vision come to life.

Much of the design work that goes into your cabinetry project isn’t always obvious.  It may start with a simple wish list that needs to be developed before evolving into a finished plan.  As a cabinetry showroom, we’re a bit unusual.  Not only do we represent beautiful high quality cabinetry, our people work as a team to offer the very best Interior Design services from every angle.  We take pride in being named the Interior Design Winner for 2020’s Best of Walworth County.

Our team members represents several specialties that contribute to our stunning results.

We would like to start the introductions with our Showroom Manager, Joyce Zuelke, ckd.  That “ckd’ behind her name stands for the Certified Kitchen Design designation she was awarded by the National Kitchen and Bath Association.  This is only granted after years of experience and passing rigorous academic and design practicum exams.  Beyond that, Joyce has a background in Interior Architecture which allows her to blend art and science to create, restore and readapt interior spaces.  Read more about Joyce here.  Take a look at one of Joyce’s latest projects featuring Shiloh Cabinetry.

. . . and just one of the many pages of planning that went behind it.

Next you must meet Natalie Spiniolas

As an Interior Designer with a degree from Illinois Institute of Art, Natalie began with a holistic approach to Interior Design and is now specializing in the area of Kitchen and Bath.  From the initial client meeting to a design that is integrated into the clients home, Natalie finely details each plan for the ultimate solution.  Read more about Natalie here, then take a look at one of her kitchens featuring Plato Woodwork, Inc. 

. . .  and the 3D drawings she developed to help her clients visualize the completed kitchen.  See more photos of this design here.

Rounding out the design team is Stephanie Nelson who serves an integral role.  She too has an Interior Design background and the attention to detail that we highly value.   Not only does Stephanie assist our designers, she is an essential part of the design work for visiting designers.  Read more about her here.

Stephanie spends a great deal of her time on technical drawings, 3D renderings and shop drawings for our installation team.  Here is one of her recent projects using Shiloh Cabinetry.

 

And nothing would happen without our Project Manager, Jessie Hopkins.

Jessie is a master of organization and coordinates scheduling and delivery of cabinetry, along with all of the other elements that make an installation possible.  Read more about her here.

Speaking of installation, we are known for quality of work by our expert construction and installation team, right here.

 

Beyond your personal style, our team is dedicated to guiding you through the full design and installation of your home or commercial project.  We love working directly with homeowners and are also frequently called upon to work with other designers and builders for their cabinetry needs.

Read about the steps it takes to complete your project with Geneva Cabinet Company click here.

And know that we are always excited to create the ideal space for you!

 

Before planning your next project visit our Inspiration Gallery here.

Our showroom is open by appointment only, place call to schedule your visit!

262-245-9600

Photography by Shanna Wolf

 

 

 

 

 

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Should You Splurge on a Microwave Drawer?

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The microwave drawer is a new and improved version of the standard kitchen microwave.  For decades it was placed on the counter or precariously above the stove. The drawer offers a safer, user-friendly position.  Our newly completed kitchen, featuring Shiloh Cabinetry, demonstrates the advantages.

Elevate the Design of Your Kitchen

No longer view a sea of appliances when you glance into the kitchen.  The undercounted microwave is more discreet and blends beautifully with fine quality cabinetry.

 

Clear Countertops

No bulky appliance to interfere with a streamlined length of work space.

 

Make Way for a Statement Hood

This is a game changer when the space above the range can be used for a decorative and energy efficient range hood.

 

Easy Access for Hot & Heavy Cooking Platters

You are now able to lift items up and out of the microwave instead of balancing them and hoping not to spill liquids.  The new microwave drawers do not use the clumsy old-fashioned turntable.   The heating element, now located on top, does the rotating.  This means your rectangular pans will not bang around.  Also, note how easy it is to add ingredients and stir your recipes without having to remove a hot plate from the microwave.

Usable Eye Level Storage

Upper cabinet space can be put to better and more flattering use.

 

Easy to Fit Into Your Plans

Not only do we love these microwave drawers for your kitchen, we find them easy to include in the design of butler’s pantries, home bars and even home theaters.  If children are in the home, most have a way of locking the control panel to avoid unauthorized use.

 

Take the tour to see all of the amazing design elements included in this kitchen by clicking here.

And then get inspired for your personal kitchen or bath makeover here!

Our showroom is open by appointment, please call to schedule your visit!

262-245-9600

 

All cabinetry featured is Shiloh Cabinetry

Microwave Drawers in this kitchen are from Sharp

Photography by Shanna Wolf

 

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Nagging Little Questions About Your Kitchen Remodel

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

 

Must I Follow Every Code?

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

 

Should I Use Cabinet Doors or Drawers?

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

What type of hardware should I use?

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

Where do I stop the backsplash tile?

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

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

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

How do I choose a countertop edge?

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

 

Can I mix metals and finishes?

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

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

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

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

201 Geneva National Ave S

Lake Geneva, WI

262-245-9600

 

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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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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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Geneva Cabinet Named Best of Houzz 2019

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The Best of Houzz winners for 2019 have been named and we are so excited to once again receive this distinctive honor in two categories!

Best of Houzz Design Award

The Best of Houzz Design is a special badge presented to professionals whose images have been the most popular in 2018.

Best of Houzz Customer Service

And we especially value the Best of Houzz Customer Service award that is based on our client reviews and overall professional rating.

Geneva Cabinet Company was chosen by the more than 40 million monthly unique users that comprise the Houzz community from among more than 2.1 million active home building, remodeling and design industry professionals.  These award badges will appear on our profile along with our awards from past years.

“Best of Houzz is a true badge of honor as it is awarded by our community of homeowners, those who are hiring design, remodeling and other home improvement professionals for their projects,” said Liza Hausman, vice president of Industry Marketing for Houzz. “We are excited to celebrate the 2019 winners chosen by our community as their favorites for home design and customer experience, and to highlight those winners on the Houzz website and app.”

Geneva Cabinet Company Kitchen Design

This welcoming kitchen became our most popular photo on Houzz in the past year! To see the entire kitchen along with the lovely bath areas of this home click here or visit our Houzz profile.

Houzz is the leading platform for home remodeling and design, providing people with everything they need to improve their homes from start to finish.  Join us there for inspiration and advice about your upcoming home cabinetry improvements. While you’re there, be sure to save your favorites from all of our projects to your personal Ideabooks.  It is the best way to create easy reference files to remember all of your favorite looks.

Our designers are ready to help with your cabinetry and home improvements for every room of you home.

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

262-245-9600

201 Geneva National Ave. S.

Lake Geneva, WI 53147

 

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Donate for a Rewarding Remodel!

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So you want to remodel your kitchen, but hate the idea of wasting the existing cabinetry?  We have a solution for you!  Donate your old cabinets and usable appliances to a good cause like Habitat for Humanity!  We are at your service to make it happen with no extra effort when you do a kitchen or bath project with Geneva Cabinet Company!

Project Manager Mike Jeffrey meets with Jake Weiler from Milwaukee Habitat for Humanity Restore.

This location is one of many home improvement stores around the country that gladly accepts new or gently used furniture, appliances, cabinetry and other building components like windows and doors.  You donations are sold and the proceeds go to your local Habitat  effort to provide affordable housing.

For this project our team did a great job of deconstructing the beautiful cherry cabinetry that was unfortunately not working for the homeowners.  Our team had the cabinets, countertops and lighting ready to go for Habitat Milwaukee.  You can contact them directly to schedule your own pick up or ask for our help during the planning phase of your project.

In this case we are working with incredibly generous homeowners who even donated appliances that were like-new!  A special thank you to them and all of the volunteers at Habitat who made the entire process so rewarding!

In the meantime, our designer Joyce Zuelke, ckd has been hard at work designing the new kitchen layout.  With her trademark ingenuity, the new kitchen will feature a fresh open concept with increased storage and new Medallion Cabinetry.

Stay tuned for the big reveal, it will look a little something like this!

Our designers would love to help you with your kitchen, bath and storage improvements!  Our cabinetry is beautifully made in the USA to the highest standards.  Stop in to our Lake Geneva showroom to browse for ideas or call us today!

262-245-9600

201 Geneva National Ave. S

Lake Geneva, WI 53147

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