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Kitchen Design with Style & Storage

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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.

style and storage is on trend in the kitchen

Plato Woodwork Inc Cabinetry, Shanna Wolf Photography

Personalized with Functional Storage

Functional storage for the kitchen

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

The back kitchen butlers pantry

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

style with show stopping backsplash tile

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

kitchen lighting in layers

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.

 

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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

 

 

 

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Kitchen Design Secrets Revealed

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A kitchen is never just about cooking.  Yet when a love for cooking combines with the great desire for comfort, a fresh kitchen concept is born. The kitchen is naturally the heart of any home.  Adding the seamless integration of lifestyle and architecture is the secret to creating an engaging space.

Before and After

A new design brings opportunities for greatness.  The spacious room with beautiful views was a good start.  However a central fireplace limited the natural flow of activity.  Removing the fireplace and borrowing space from the mudroom was a game changer.  Essential to the new plan is an inviting island with generous space for storage, meal prep, gatherings and dining.

Next Best Thing to a Sofa

Centerstage a supersized island-banquette offers true comfort.  Dining options include counter height seating on two sides as well as space to stretch out on upholstered lounge seating constructed by V Upholstery

Business in the Back

While the exposed side of the kitchen is all about comfort,  the interior of the island faces a run of cabinetry and cook space that is all business.  From the luxury range to double dishwashers, this prep area will accommodate team cooking efforts with ease.

The homeowner’s existing John Boos & Co butcher block table finds a built-in position for the serious chef business of cutting and chopping.  Throughout this kitchen we feature Shiloh Cabinetry in contrasting stain and painted finishes.

Hidden Secrets Revealed

But some of the best features in this kitchen are cleverly disguised.  Gliding doors are concealed within the full height Cambria backsplash constructed by Old World Stone where the homeowner can neatly collect a secret stash of spices.

And integrated into the countertop are “Chameleon” pop up outlets from S-Box. You only see them when you need them.

Accessible Storage for Clutter Free Space

In keeping with the focus on the view, this kitchen features countless storage options easy to access to help the space remain clutter-free throughout the day.  Countertop appliances are nesting together behind a cabinet door with glide up lift system for added convenience.

A coffee and snack bar is well situated in a special niche between the living room and kitchen for morning or mid day pick-me-ups.

For more inspiration visit our Gallery here

And set up an appointment to discuss your personal home design needs by contacting our showroom here.

 

Kitchen Design by Joyce Zuelke, ckd

Cabinetry from Shiloh Cabinetry

Photography by Josh Z Photography

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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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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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Vote for Geneva Cabinet as Best of Walworth County!

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We are honored to be nominated once again in the Interior Design category for the Best of Walworth County 2020

Our specialty is blending the highest quality products with the exceptional designs of our staff.  This nomination is truly meaningful to us because it recognizes all of their talent and creativity!

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

Get to know our design team here!

And take a look at this beautiful home with kitchen, bath and laundry design by Joyce Zuelke, ckd and Lowell Custom Homes!

Start to imagine the possibilities for your home by visiting our showroom. You can also browse our Inspiration Gallery by clicking here.

 

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Out With the Island, In With the Fun!

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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

 

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Geneva Cabinet Wins The Best of Houzz 2020

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

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

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

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

See more of our favorite bathrooms here.

 

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

See the full project here.

 

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

See more of our favorite kitchens here.

 

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

See the details here.

 

This Refreshing Beverage Center takes a top spot.

See the full project here.

 

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

See more of our lovely bath cabinetry here.

 

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

For more kitchen ideas follow this.

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

See the full kitchen here.

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

201 Geneva National Ave S

Lake Geneva, WI

262-245-9600

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Our Top 10 2020 Kitchen Trends

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Nothing exciting ever happens when you play it safe and the trends for 2020 will encourage you to take a leap and try some of these new ideas to energize your home.   Keep in mind that these are trends, not fads, they will be around for the next 10 years.   So don’t be shy, give your kitchen a new point of view and enjoy.

 

1. Two & Three Toned Kitchens

We are mixing it up in the kitchen and bath with complimentary wood tones and color options. It is our favorite way to bring warmth, color and texture into the design.  Adding in Pantone’s Color of the Year, Classic Navy will help the cause.

 

2. Slabs migrate from countertop to backsplash

The veining in stone slabs is so appreciated that we are finding new places to view as art by having it move up the wall to the backsplash and walls.

 

3. Countertop Options

There is movement away from granite and towards quartz (man-made) and quartzite (natural stone).  Add in a contrasting kitchen island in wood or butcher block from Grothouse and you round out this fashion forward look.  Also new ultra thin materials are gaining in popularity to offer a more modern point-of-view.

 

4.  Range Hoods take center stage

Artesian crafted with stunning materials like this hood from Raw Urth, we love creating statement pieces in the kitchen that set the tone for the entire home.

 

5.  The Island Life

Extra-large and multifunctional islands are here to stay as the hub of the home.  They are housing appliances, refrigeration, storage and charging stations.   Also the island is center stage as a place for casual dining and gatherings with guests.

 

6.  Luxury Appliances

This trend is more about superior function than status. The newest flexi-fridges have special compartments that transition from refrigerator to freezer and advanced refrigeration systems that extend the life of food for days beyond the older models.   (Very handy for a weekend home.)

 

7.  Lighting for Beauty and Function

Oversized statement pendants over islands as well as detail lighting under cabinet and on cabinet interiors will increase visibility and provide a highly functioning work space.

 

8.  Beverage Bars Expand

No longer an afterthought, beverage bars are practical solutions that are popping up in every room. Coffee, smoothie, wine, or snacks, the beverage bar is at your service.

 

9.  Permanency

The general consensus during most remodels is the desire to do it right and first time. This is the end of the disposable design era.  Most homeowners want to incude all of the bells and whistles to enjoy now and not wait to upgrade their kitchen to prepare it for sale.

 

10.   Versatility

Pushing the boundaries of what a kitchen should be, we are featuring cabinetry that looks like quality furnishing.  Many kitchens are even including comfortable upholstery and decorative items that encourage comfort and livability.

 

The Geneva Cabinet Company’s state-of-the-art showroom is open to the public and contains endless inspiration for every room of your home.    Stop in for a visit and stay connected to the latest trends at genevacabinet.com

Explore our beautifully designed cabinetry here!

And stop in to our Lake Geneva showroom

to be inspired for every room in your home!

201 Geneva National Ave S

Lake Geneva, WI

262-245-9600

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