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At Geneva Cabinet Company, we believe a pantry should be designed to do more than storage, it should support you. Think of it as the behind-the-scenes partner that helps your kitchen stay calm and organized. Thoughtful pantry design is the key to effortless cooking, hosting, and everyday flow.

pantry design behind the scenes partner

Beyond keeping clutter out of sight, a pantry should complement your home’s style.  It might seem like an optional luxury, but is it really? We’re making the case for smart kitchen storage that works hard behind the scenes.

Practical Matters

When Geneva Cabinet redesigned this Lake Geneva kitchen (see it here), the pantry was anything but an afterthought. By reclaiming a few feet from a nearby bedroom closet, the team transformed it into a striking feature that enhances the entire space.

Before and after pantry makeover The result is a thoughtful design that blends charm with purpose. As the construction photos reveal, a normal pantry that was once tucked away has become a showpiece that brings character and function to the kitchen.

Shelving It

pantry shelves

Whether you love to bake, host gatherings, or keep the pantry stocked for family visits, your storage should work around those routines. Cabinet choices and layouts matter.  Deep drawers and lower cabinetry keep bulky items in check while shallow shelving at eye level will make it easier to find what you need immediately.

Floor to Ceiling

pantry design shelves

Every inch of this pantry earns its keep, thanks to the addition of a functional and undeniably stylish ladder. Beyond adding character, it provides access to upper shelf storage and offers a beautiful way to display items for occasional use. The entire pantry ties into the kitchen’s design while standing out with its stunning painted finish in Pewter Green by Sherwin Williams.

A Back Kitchen in Disguise

pantry design with speed oven

A well-designed pantry functions like a quiet assistant behind the scenes. In this one, a built-in speed oven expands cooking flexibility, while the added countertop provides convenient prep space. Whether hosting a crowd or cooking a quickie family snack, this space will keep everything running smoothly, and the mess discreetly contained.  The perfect pantry helps the main kitchen remain calm, clean, and ready to impress.

Seamless by Design

seamless pantry design

Good pantry design isn’t about how much you can pack in, it’s how easily you can get it out. Cabinetry that compliments the main kitchen will keep the transition seamless, while bringing order to the overflow. Every shelf, drawer, and bin earns its place.

At Geneva Cabinet Company, we design pantries that work quietly behind the scenes, so your kitchen can shine when it matters most.

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Credits for this kitchen

Design by Krista Benton, CKBD, CAPS

Photography by Shanna Wolf/S.Wolf Photography

 

 

We believe thoughtful cabinet design, rooted in the psychology of storage, holds the key to a truly transformative living experience.  Let’s step beyond just organization and look at how cabinet design can actually improve your outlook on life.

Remove the Burden of Clutter

Psychology of Storage and Cabinetry to remove the burden of clutter

Photo by Shanna Wolf

Living with clutter is more than just an eyesore; it’s a mental drain. Research shows that a messy environment can increase stress, make it hard to focus, and contribute to feelings of anxiety. Your cabinets should be a solution, not part of the problem. Choosing well constructed cabinetry will reduce the mental burden of disorganization and help you be more productive.

Energize With the Power of Aesthetics

Psychology of Storage The Power of Aesthetics

Photo by Shanna Wolf

The look and feel of cabinetry plays a significant role in your emotional connection to your home. When you choose cabinet materials, colors, finishes, and hardware to match your personal style, a harmonious and beautiful space is created that leaves you feeling happier and more energized.

Build Confidence by Taking Control

Psychology of Organization

Photo by Shanna Wolf

With well-designed and organized cabinetry, you can bring a true sense of order to your home. You’ll have a dedicated spot for every item, making it a breeze to find what you need. Imagine the feeling of opening a perfectly organized pantry where you can see every spice and easily reach every shelf. This simple, struggle-free experience can create a surprising sense of confidence and control over your daily routine.

Support Your Lifestyle

The designers at Geneva Cabinet Company use the psychology of storage to create spaces that feel like they truly belong to you. These unique designs are made to fit your passions and personal needs.

The Culinary Artist’s Haven

Psychology of Storage Culinary Haven Cabinetry

Photo by Shanna Wolf

For those who find joy in cooking, custom cabinetry with specialized storage for cookware, utensils, and ingredients transforms the kitchen into a creative playground. Imagine dedicated pull-outs for pots and pans, knife blocks perfectly integrated into drawers, and spice racks that put every flavor at your fingertips. This is the environment you need for your passion to thrive.

The Serene Bathroom Retreat

Psychology of Storage, Spa atmosphere for bath

Photo by Aimee Mazzenga

With a tranquil color scheme, organized drawers for toiletries, and generous space for towels, you can start and end your day in an efficiently peaceful environment. Features like integrated charging stations and warming drawers further elevate the space to a serene sanctuary.

The Organized Family Lounge

The Organized Family Rec Center

Photo by Shanna Wolf

For busy families, thoughtful cabinetry can be a breakthrough.  Games, toys and hobbies all coexist in a refreshing space that encourages fun family activities.  Snack drawers and an under counter refrigerator will serve up refreshments and keep the gang focused on fun.

Psychology of Storage Family Lounge

Photo by Shanna Wolf

Our designers understand the psychology of storage and will create a space that perfectly captures the mood you want, meets your needs, and truly transforms your life,

one thoughtfully organized drawer,

one beautifully crafted door,

one clutter-free space at a time.

Browse our inspiration gallery

and then Contact Us!

 

 

 

We recently wrapped up a truly special remodeling project, and we’re so excited to share the details!  This undertaking was a perfect example of how thoughtful design and skilled craftsmanship can transform a home with cabinetry that adapts to your life, all while preserving a home’s unique character.

Preserving History Underfoot

flooring preservation during remodel with cabinetry that adapts to your life

One of the homeowner’s key desires was to preserve the existing stone flooring. This presented a unique challenge, as the layout changes required some patching. Our team meticulously worked to match the existing stone, ensuring that the repairs were virtually undetectable. The result? A seamless, continuous floor that honors the home’s original charm, and saving the homeowner the expense and disruption of a full floor replacement. It’s always rewarding to find solutions that are both beautiful and cost-effective!

A Bakers Happy Place

cabinetry that adapts to life

The heart of this renovation lies in its custom features.  For our homeowner who is an avid baker, we designed a dedicated baking center that is pure perfection!

custom cabinetry with kitchen baking center

Knowing the homeowner regularly bakes fresh sourdough bread, we incorporated custom rollouts for all countertop appliances, cleverly hidden behind retractable doors. This keeps the counters clutter-free while ensuring everything is easily accessible when inspiration strikes.

Cabinetry Adapts to Life With Space Savvy Solutions

savvy space solutions by cabinetry that adapts to life

Beyond the stunning aesthetics, this remodel was all about smart functionality. We created specialty niches and concealed storage throughout with a concentration of convenience in the range area. Recessed spice nooks and hanging pull-outs put all a chef’s tools and ingredients within easy reach.

The Galley Workstation

The Galley Workstation is one of our favorites for integrating multiple kitchen functions into one tidy area for food prep, serving, cleaning and entertaining.

savvy storage islandThe kitchen island effortlessly transitions between casual dining, food preparation, and ample storage. This powerhouse unit is smartly equipped with drawers, a dishwasher, dishwasher drawers, and even hidden compartments tucked away under the knee space.

Entertainer’s Delight

entertainers delight television and bar cabinetry

Adjacent to the kitchen, we crafted a stunning custom entertainment center bar wall. This integrated design features cabinetry that discreetly conceals refrigerator drawers, ice maker, and ample drawer storage along with the display wine cooler. The famed tv screen features a backdrop of quartzite stone for a subtle touch of glamour.

Elevated Details

High end touches

The homeowner’s discerning taste elevated this project even further. They personally selected a magnificent custom Lacanche range, which serves as a show-stopping focal point in the kitchen. A beautiful custom library ladder adds both charm and practicality, providing easy access to higher cabinetry. Finally, Visual Comfort light fixtures along with brass accents cast a warm and inviting glow, perfectly complementing the sophisticated design.

This project was a true collaboration, and we’re incredibly proud of the outcome. It’s a testament to how, with careful planning and skilled execution, a house can  become a dream home by using cabinetry that adapts to life with modern convenience and timeless elegance.

Are you considering a remodeling project that requires creative solutions or has unique requirements? We’d love to hear about your vision!

Contact Us

Credits for this kitchen

Design by Krista Benton, CKBD, CAPS

Cabinetry by Neumann Custom Woodworking

Photography by Shanna Wolf/S.Wolf Photography

Sometimes the most charming and efficient kitchens come in petite packages. Designing and remodeling a small-scale kitchen can feel like a puzzle, but at Geneva Cabinet Company we see it as an exciting opportunity to get creative and implement some truly brilliant ideas.

designing and remodeling a kitchen big ideas for small spaces

Designer Krista Benton’s close collaboration with the homeowners turned limited kitchen space into a cozy and highly functional culinary hub. By thoughtfully weaving in eclectic details that mirrored the home’s unique character, she achieved a powerhouse of style. These are the key strategies that guided the transformation of this compact footprint for a welcoming and efficient kitchen.

A Streamlined Design

before and after kitchen remodel small space big ideas

Not every kitchen needs an island or a peninsula. Geneva Cabinet designers tailor a program to each homeowner, incorporating conveniences that suit their unique lifestyle. A clear and natural path of travel is essential for a functional kitchen space.  This new floorplan demonstrates how simplicity creates uncluttered ease.

Vertical Thinking

ceiling details think tall

Utilizing the entire height of a wall will enlarge the space.  Notice that in this kitchen we even raised the ceiling a bit for a few extra inches of impact.  Running the cabinets up to the ceiling allows extra storage for infrequently used seasonal and serving pieces.   While you’re looking up, notice the shiplap paneling and reclaimed wood beam as distinct details that elevate the entire space.

Wall Mounted Organizers

Wall mounted open organization

From charming plate racks to hanging brass bars, wall-mounted solutions free up precious cabinet and countertop space.

hanging pot rack above stove

Bringing both convenience and a hint of old-world charm, wall mounted storage will keep your serving and cooking tools within reach, while adding undeniable character.

Under Cabinet Lighting

designing and remodeling a kitchen with under cabinet lighting

While dim lighting can detract from a kitchen’s cozy charm, our designers skillfully integrated natural, overhead and under-cabinet lighting to brighten the countertops and backsplash and visually expand the space to create an uplifting atmosphere.

Personalized Artful Touches

artful display in a remodeled kitchen

For us, the ultimate achievement in designing and remodeling a kitchen is crafting a space that resonates with each  homeowner.  We strive to design environments that embrace your lifestyle and special collections, achieving the most livable kitchen design to tell your distinct story each day.

 

Explore our Gallery for more kitchen and bath makeover inspiration!

Credits for this kitchen

Design by Krista Benton, CKBD, CAPS

Cabinetry by Shiloh

Photography by S.Photography/Shanna Wolf

While stainless steel kitchens are sleek and modern, appliance panels are a stylish way to add warmth and character.

Kitchens continue to evolve and mold to our lifestyles.  They serve as an oasis, the go-to gathering spot for family and friends.  As designers, we love pairing an open floorplan with beautiful cabinetry for an inviting space that encourages mingling and relaxation.  Part of our secret is the use of wood panels, allowing appliances to effortlessly blend into the background.  This creates overall warmth while maintaining complete functionality with our quality cabinetry.

Hiding in Plain Sight

appliance panels in contrast finish as part of kitchen design

Plato Woodwork, Inc., Shanna Wolf Photography

Stainless Steel is an immensely popular finish in the kitchen.  While everyone loves the neutral look, it can overwhelm a space. Especially when using the newest commercial refrigeration systems.  Furniture quality wood panels will match or compliment the cabinet design and allow even the most generous stretch of appliances to blend in to the surroundings.

Cabinet appliance panels on plan and elevation

Cohesive Design

Kitchen design by Geneva Cabinet Company featuring Plato Woodwork, Inc. cabinetry

Plato Woodwork, Inc., Shanna Wolf Photography

As an extension of the family room, we want kitchens to nurture us with integrated design. By placing appliances in the background, the overall vibe is more versatile than kitchens from previous decades.

Refrigerator and freezer columns with wood appliance panels

Shiloh Cabinetry, Josh Z Photography

Noise Reduction

Shiloh Cabinetry Thermador dishwasher appliance panel

Shiloh Cabinetry, Shanna Wolf Photography

Decibel levels on appliances have improved over the years,  yet we can reduce noise further with the application of wood appliance panels.  They will help absorb vibrations for a more peaceful kitchen environment.

Elevated Protection

Beverage Bar Coffee Bar with glass panel refrigerator door and wood cabinet panel drawer dishwasher.

Shiloh Cabinetry, Josh Z Photography

Quality wood panels will protect your appliances with decades of durability. Even a high-traffic beverage bar can achieve an elegant appearance with easy-care cabinet finishes.

Explore our inspiration gallery and contact us for help bringing your home improvement vision to life!

 

Unleash your home’s full potential with design solutions to maximize your kitchen space and storage.  Whether your room is large or compact, the talented designers at Geneva Cabinet Company will bring efficiency to your day, while highlighting your personal style.

maximize your kitchen storage cabinetry by Plato Woodwork

Plato Woodwork, Inc., Designer Joyce Zuelke, ckbd, Josh Z Photography

Vertical Advantage

maximize your kitchen storage tips Plato Woodwork, Inc., Joyce Zuelke, ckbd, Josh Z Photography

Plato Woodwork, Inc., Joyce Zuelke, ckbd, Josh Z Photography

Take advantage of your kitchen’s height by installing cabinets that reach to the ceiling.  Often this space is ignored, so why not use it to your advantage with full height cabinetry to store seasonal tableware, serving pieces or even bulk paper goods.  We love the streamlined lift door for full access!

Pull-Out Possibilities

maximize kitchen storage with deep pull out storage

Plato Woodwork, Inc., Joyce Zuelke, ckbd, Josh Z Photography

Pull-out shelving units are convenient and perfect as a built-in pantry.  This storage solution can be customized to the width and size of your opening.

Space Efficiency

Double faucet sink for maximum efficiency

Galley Workstation, Joyce Zuelke, ckbd, Josh Z Photography

With a double faucet and wide, unobstructed sink base, a kitchen galley sink becomes the hub of productivity. Collaborate on tasks like washing produce or dishes, and enjoy the efficiency of two sets of hands working together.

Multipurpose Island

maximize kitchen storage with multifunctional island

Plato Woodwork, Inc., Joyce Zuelke, ckbd, Josh Z Photography

This multifunctional island combines storage, prep space, and dining functionality into one convenient unit. Its undercount drawers and cabinets, prep sink, and seating options make it a versatile addition to any kitchen.

Storage in Plain Sight

Plato Woodwork, Inc., Joyce Zuelke, ckbd, Josh Z Photography

Typically we think of hiding everything away in a cabinet, but using open shelving and countertop displays will create interactive moments with your most useful items.  Your favorite serving tray and utensils will be within reach when you’re ready to get down to the business of entertaining.

Plato Woodwork, Inc., Joyce Zuelke, ckbd, Josh Z Photography

The kitchen in this article features beautiful cabinetry from Plato Woodwork, Inc.   Geneva Cabienet Company represents the highest quality manufacturers and styles for a seamless one-stop design and remodeling experience.  Our talented team will guide you through every step of the process, ensuring that you maximize your kitchen space and storage.

Explore our inspiration gallery and contact us to schedule a consultation.

 

If you’re starting to feel like your kitchen isn’t functioning as well as it once did, it might be time to consider a remodel. Here are the top 7 signs that you need a change.

1. Space is not fully utilized

Good design is about function.  Awkward angles and inefficient layouts waste perfectly good space.  A professional kitchen designer will evaluate your existing kitchen and create architectural magic by utilizing every inch with space-saving efficiency.

2. You’re noticing wear and tear

Broken cabinet drawers, peeling laminate finishes and doors with broken hinges are just depressing.  When the overall cabinet quality is poor, upkeep is a never ending battle.  Solid hardwood construction and quality craftsmanship is the solution that supports heavy duty kitchen activities.

Geneva Cabinet Company is known for sustainable solutions through quality cabinetry.

signs of high quality cabinetry

Geneva Cabinet Company represents the finest manufacturers..

3.  Your kitchen layout is frustrating

Is your kitchen in a constant state of gridlock?  Our designers will evaluate your lifestyle and daily activities as well as the space.  An inefficient floorplan will make cooking and other everyday activities more complicated than necessary.  The right design places everyone at ease.

4. There’s never enough workspace

Countertops are work surfaces.  Ample counter space is essential to your sanity.  If you have to clear space before there is room for everyday activities like meal prep, you need a new plan.

5. Clutter is uncontrollable

Clutter happens when you lack storage space.  Easy access drawers, pull-outs and updated cabinet interiors will maximize storage space and keep equipment and supplies in sight.

6.  Appliances are outdated

Outdated appliances will be inefficient, unreliable and even post a safety hazard.  Upgrading to newer energy-efficient models can save you money on your utility bills and make your time in the kitchen more productive.

7. You’re ready to increase the value of your home

Signs it's time to remodel your kitchen

Beyond functionality, beautiful cabinetry has the power to secure your investment while visually transforming your home.  As the heart of the home, remodeling the kitchen will reward you daily with satisfaction.

Visit our award winning showroom in Lake Geneva for inspiration and ideas.

Contact us for an appointment today!

 (262) 245-9600
info@genevacabinet.com

 

 

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.

 

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

 

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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