Posts

The Architectural Kitchen

, ,

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

/0 Comments/by

Summer Kitchen Cool Down

, ,

Summer has so much to offer, but you won’t find it hiding in your overheated kitchen. Step away from the oven and explore some of the coolest ways to plate a refreshing summer meal!

Eat Fresh

Farmer’s markets are a dream come true with their garden fresh veggies for a chop and eat meal.  No need to make this complicated, just browse these Cooking Light No Cook Salad recipes for inspiration.

 

Break Out the Countertop Appliances

Instapot and Air Fryer recipes were made for summer days.  Even blender smoothies can offer you instant gratification without tedious prep time.  Extend leisure time and keep it cool with a curated stash of cooking aids.  Store them in a convenient countertop cabinet for quick and easy access.

Take it Outdoors

Designer Joyce Zuelke, ckd designed the perfect way to beat the heat with this outdoor kitchen.  Enjoy the sunshine and fresh air while preparing a tasty meal.  You will love the special features of the latest weather resistant cabinetry by Danver. Not only is this built for longevity, the weatherproof storage is offered in a stunning variety of door styles and colors.

Your outdoor kitchen can be as simple or as elaborate as you like.

Be sure to follow our principles of good design for Outdoor Kitchens.

Photo from Danver Stainless Outdoor Kitchen with Key West Door in metallic bronze matte powder coated finish.

Keep it Cool for Desert

 

Fresh fruit with a dollop of flavored whipped cream is a classic summertime desert, but you can step it up with frozen treats.   For an icy cold adult option check out the boozy pop recipes right here.

 

Follow this link to our Outdoor Kitchen Design Guide  

and

stop by the showroom to touch and feel the cabinetry in our outdoor kitchen display!

262-245-9600

201 Geneva National Ave. S.

Lake Geneva, WI 53147

/0 Comments/by

Inspired Ideas for Your Kitchen and Bath

, , , ,

While pouring over our notes and photos from KBIS (the Kitchen and Bath Industry Show), we found that the most noteworthy products encourage a very personal approach to design. We organized our favorite ideas into four groups with elements that have a tendency to migrate and blend to create the perfect balance.

The Finish Story

Geneva Cabinet Company KBIS color and finish story

Everyone is accustomed to accent color statements, but the latest products expand finish options and fully encourage an integrated color palette.  Cobalt blue and emerald green are making inroads into formerly neutral territory with stunning results.

True leads the way with an introduction of residential appliances called Build Your True.  Not only did we see dramatic color, but even black and white were developed with rich matte effect. These along with stunning new combinations on hardware include metallic finishes (a trend we predicted last year) to help us build specialized statements in kitchen and bath design.

 

The Surface Story

Geneva Cabinet Company KBIS trends surface interest for countertops and walls

In addition to tried-and-true surfaces like quartz and granite, the buzz is building for materials with unique character.  Walls and countertops will mimic nature or take us beyond expectations with exaggerated pattern and texture.

The Artisan Story

Geneva Cabinet Company KBIS report Artisan trends

Craftsmanship is always about attention to detail and this year standout products emphasize artistic composition along with innovative materials.

The Transformation Story

Geneva Cabinet Kitchen and Bath trends 2019

Ingenuity and creative solutions appear with products that shift and take on new shapes to meet our needs. The most delightful ideas convert in appearance for functional and versatile looks, much like the popular Transformer toys.

There is no doubt that the latest kitchen and bath products open the way to inspired design!

To learn more about the products featured in this blog stop by our showroom to chat

and explore these links.

Plato Woodwork, Inc.

Elkay 

SMEG

Inalco and Azalia

True

Robern

Design-Craft

Grothouse

Art for Everyday

SomerTile

262-245-9600

201 Geneva National Ave. S.

Lake Geneva, WI 53147

/0 Comments/by

Healthy Kitchen, Healthy You!

, ,

Creating a kitchen for wellness is the modern way to introduce a lifestyle that cares for you and your family. A fresh approach to design can encourage new healthful habits. Our designers at Geneva Cabinet Company, LLC are your cabinet concierges with the expertise you need to make it happen.  Follow these tips for a design that will lead you to a healthier home.

Banish the Harmful

As any healthy body knows, it’s what’s inside that counts. The material used in the composition of cabinetry as well as the finishing process is a key factor to product safety.   That is why the cabinets from Geneva Cabinet Company are made in the USA to the highest standards. Our products meet or surpass regulatory requirements for low VOC (volatile organic compounds) so you can breath easy.  You can read about the commitment to the environment by our manufacturers here for Plato Woodwork, Inc, here for Shiloh Cabinetry, and here for Medallion Cabinetry.

Keep it Clean

The right finishes will help you keep your kitchen clean.  Non-porous countertop favorites like Quartz will inhibit the spread of bacteria.  We like taking the backsplash up the wall to provide a fully washable surface.  Read more about countertop options here.  Keep in mind that adding windows in lieu of upper cabinets will let the natural germ fighting power of sunlight pour in.

Visualize Vitality

You will make healthier choices if they are out in the open.   To aid in this pursuit Geneva Cabinet Company is designing kitchens with snack stations and open shelving to display delicious still life arrangements of fruits and veggies. Glass door refrigeration is growing in popularity with its visual cues to more nutritious options and refrigerator drawers are being placed at the point of use for easy-to-reach healthy treats.

display healthy food in the open

Engage the Senses

With the focus on real foods, indoor growing rooms and countertop herb gardens are nurturing features. Terra Trellis has elevated the design of indoor gardens with their delightful grow boxes and expert indoor gardening videos are on board to help us cultivate our inner green thumb.  Engaging the sense of smell and touch with fresh herbs is known to spark interest in more healthy recipes.

terra trellis

Preserved to Perfection

A focus on freshness comes with the need for food preservation systems to maintains taste, texture and nutrients.  Sub Zero is one of our favorites as a pioneer in multiple evaporator and air purifying systems. Refrigeration with separate zones will maximum freshness with controlled humidity to reduce the moisture that accelerates food deterioration.  There is also a renewed interest in kitchens with areas of bulk cold storage and compact individual refrigerator units.  Think of canned goods, beverages, wine and snacks all maintained at the proper temperature for maximum shelf-life.

food preservation sub zero

The Joy of Cooking

In the era of grocery and meal kit delivery, there is more time for the pure pleasure of cooking. Convection, steam and induction methods are speeding up the process with superior taste and nutrition.  Technology adds novelty to the experience with voice controlled faucets and programmable appliances. The kitchen plan can encourage cooking efforts of multiple-generations in the household as they work together re-creating traditional family recipes.

display healthy food in the open

Touchy Feely

While we are tuned-in to the visual appearance of a kitchen, the tactile experience is just as valuable to well-being.  There is nothing as satisfying as drawer glides that operate smoothly and the secure fit of a well made cabinet door.  Substantial hardware with a solid accessible grip offers ease of operation.  In this kitchen we use knobs and pulls from Emtek in the classic Ribbon & Reed design.

easy and accessible healthy snacks

To see more healthy living designs stop in to our state-of-the-art showroom.  We are open to the public and have endless inspiration for cabinetry design in every room of your home.

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

Wolf Range and SubZero Refrigeration

Emtek Hardware

 

Photography by Shanna Wolf S.Photography and Styling

 

/0 Comments/by

Geneva Cabinet Named Best of Houzz 2019

, ,

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

 

/0 Comments/by

Donate for a Rewarding Remodel!

, , ,

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

/0 Comments/by

Designer Spotlight – Cynthia B Wilson Interior Design- Kitchen Remodel

, ,

We are always excited when we have a design or remodeling project with Cynthia B Wilson, and this one is especially impressive!

Cynthia achieved a new look for this kitchen with the effective reuse of the existing high quality cabinetry.   With an assist from Geneva Cabinet Company designer Natalie Spiniolas and our installation team, this kitchen is updated with the least amount of disruption and expense.

Kitchen Remodel Before CB Wilson

New countertops, modern hardware and a Bella Tile & Stone backsplash all create a fresh new look.  New appliances update the function and efficiency while Wilson cleverly converts the pantry to a dry bar and adds a convenient niche above the range.

Kitchen Remodel Geneva Cabinet Company and CB Wilson

We think you’ll agree, stunning!

Geneva Cabinet Company Lake Geneva WI kitchen makeover with CB Wilson

Our designers are always ready to help with your home improvements!

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

262-245-9600

201 Geneva National Ave. S.

Lake Geneva, WI 53147

/0 Comments/by

Back-to-School Tips Keep You Organized All Year

, ,

Back-to-School means back to sports, after school activities, and homework.  Not to mention packing lunches,  finding healthy snacks and planning the occasional sleepover.  No time to spare! The key to a successful school year is advanced planning.  Here are a few of our most helpful tips.

Let’s Start in the Kitchen

Geneva Cabinet Company large countertops

Large clear countertops are essential when it’s time to work on school projects, assemble lunch boxes and complete homework assignments. In this Plato Woodwork designed kitchen everyone can work together under your watchful eye.

Lake Geneva cabinets with bookcase

Cabinetry with open shelving from Plato Woodwork is ideal for storing reference books, iPads and a basket filled with school supplies.

Geneva Cabinet Company pull out storage bins

Dedicate storage space according to use.  One pull-out bin for lunch supplies, one for snacks and one to stash extra school supplies will let you easily check inventory and prevent late night runs to the store.

Snack Center

Cabinets Lake Geneva Snack Center

This is all about making your life easier, so placing approved snacks together in an easy to access area will prevent whining during the late afternoon crunch time.  It will also help you nudge everyone towards healthy food choices.

Geneva Cabinet Company sub zero refrigerator drawers

This can be as simple as a basket on the counter or as special as this Sub Zero refrigerator drawer.  Here you can store beverages and chilled veggies for family self-service.  Locate this on the outskirts of your kitchen work triangle for interruption-free meal prep time.  For healthy snack ideas click here.

Quiet Time

Geneva Cabinet Company desk and storage cabinets

When quiet study would be more productive, create a customized corner in the den, family room or bedroom.   Be sure to include ample counter space, storage and charging outlets.

Start the day off right

Bathroom Vanity Cabinetry by Geneva Cabinet in Lake Geneva WI

The Jack and Jill bath gets an update with this elongated bathroom vanity featuring a generous trough sink.  Plenty of counter space and storage equals no waiting.  We have more bath ideas for you right here.

Closet organization by Geneva Cabinet Company

Moving into the closet our favorite tip involves lots of storage drawers and bins, they are  especially helpful with clothing for kids.  A well fitted closet can also eliminate the need for costly bedroom furniture and keeping floor space open for play time. Click here for another crave-worthy closet installation!  One last tip, keep it moving in the morning by planning outfits for the week in advance.

 

Drop Zone & Launch Pad

Heading out the door will be a breeze when the essentials are stored in the “ready” position.   Built in lockers, benches and shelving are a streamline way to add storage to your mudroom or laundry.  This style is from Shiloh Cabinetry and will save you hours throughout the year.  No more last minute scrambling for homework or a missing shoe. Backpacks, jackets and sporting equipment will be stored where you can find them at the beginning and end of each day.

Back to School Break time

Now there’s time to take a break, maybe watch your favorite cooking show!

Browse through our Inspiration Gallery  for even more cabinetry design and storage ideas.  Then stop in to our Lake Geneva showroom to touch and feel beautiful cabinetry that will help you love your everyday routine.

262-245-9600

201 Geneva National Ave. S.

Lake Geneva, WI 53147

Featured Cabinetry is from Plato Woodwork, Inc.,  Shiloh Cabinetry, and others.

Photography is by Shanna Wolf S.Photogaphy and Styling and Josh Z Photography

/0 Comments/by

New Kitchen Island Transforms the Kitchen

, , ,

We can all agree that this is a perfectly nice kitchen.  But our homeowners were hoping to elevate their style while increasing storage and adding some much needed island seating.

Enter the talented kitchen and bath designer, Joyce Zuelke, ckd.  She created a more functional space with the addition of a redesigned island.  There is even a new Pinterest worthy coffee bar for good measure.  Along with updates to the lighting and some stunning ceiling detail, this kitchen takes on an entirely new character.

Geneva Cabinet Company kitchen with new island Plato Cabinetry

Kitchen Island Update

The original kitchen was created with cabinetry from Bea Industries in Elkhorn, Wi.  It had a user-friendly U-shape layout.  While stylish and open, our homeowner was looking for an improved kitchen island that would step-up the function of the space.

Cabinetry from Plato Woodwork, Inc. was selected in a deep stain which enhanced the natural wood grain.  This rich finish served as a distinct contrast to ground the bright white kitchen.

Geneva Cabinet Company Lake Geneva Wi kitchen island detail with extra seating Plato Woodwork cabinets

The island is topped with a lovely Cambria quartz countertop in the Ella pattern from their Marble Collection.  Subtle veining reflects the warm island stain while soft white connects to the surrounding cabinetry.  It works beautifully with the perimeter of granite countertops.

Geneva Cabinet Company Lake Geneva Wi island elevation with proper clearance

But it’s not just about having a gorgeous kitchen, the layout must be functional for a kitchen that is comfortable and convenient.  Notice the 48 ½” clearance between the island and the stove for safe usage when the oven door is open.  The close proximity to the island steam oven keeps the cooking zone tight and functional.

Geneva Cabinet Company Lake Geneva Wi kitchen island pull out shelves

The island also features the secret to great cabinet storage, easy access pull-out shelving.  They will keep everyday items visible and within reach to improve daily workflow.

Check out more of our Before and After transformations right here!

We encourage you to stop in to see us!  Our showroom features the freshest ideas in cabinetry for your entire home!

Geneva Cabinet Company, LLC

201 Geneva National Ave.S, Lake Geneva, WI

262-245-9600

 

Photography is by S.Photography Shanna Wolf

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SaveSave

SaveSave

SaveSave

SaveSave

SaveSave

SaveSave

SaveSave

SaveSave

SaveSave

SaveSave

/0 Comments/by

Outdoor Kitchen Design Guide

, ,

The key difference between an indoor kitchen and an outdoor kitchen is entertainment value.   Cooking outdoors turns everyday meal prep into a special occasion.  The variety of equipment for outdoor kitchens can take your weekend BBQ to the next level and provide culinary inspiration for entertaining family and friends.  Keep our design guidelines in mind and create the perfect outdoor cooking venue for the upcoming summer season.

Choose the location with convenience in mind.

The best location will blur the line between indoor and outdoor space allowing you to move easily without wasted footsteps back and forth. Certainly your outdoor kitchen will be used for entertaining, but remember that often you will want to cook outdoor and bring food indoors to dine.  When located close to your indoor kitchen, amenities for each area can be shared.   This could add up to a substantial savings on the overall project.

Design for functionality

Outdoor kitchens come in all shapes and sizes to go along with your space and budget.  The basic plan should provide an area for food prep, cooking and serving. Before creating your layout, locate the most direct access to gas, electric and water utilities.  This will cut down on the additional expense of running services further than necessary.

 

Material Selections

Choose the materials and finishes carefully with respect to your climate.  Cabinetry, countertops and appliances should be maintenance free.  Include stainless steel, teak and concrete for long lasting waterproof design.  We used Danver Stainless Steel Outdoor Kitchen Cabinetry in the featured projects to achieve high design, exceptional efficiency and lasting durability.

 

Beyond the Basics

The design options are endless, but once you cover your basic cooking functions it’s time to add even more convenience.  A sink in the outdoor kitchen makes clean-up a breeze and storage cabinetry will keep provisions at your fingertips.

 

Refrigeration is a plus for self-service beverages and holding perishables before cooking.

Specialized Cooking

The latest specialized outdoor kitchens feature artisan pizza ovens, slow-cook grills, smokers, and stoves with infra-red burners.  Any outdoor cooking enthusiast will love the restaurant quality options now available.

 

Protect yourself rain or shine

Protect yourself and your equipment with a little overhead coverage from a canopy or pergola.  Nothing will spoil the fun like the typical midwest storm blowing through.  Plan ahead so the party doesn’t become waterlogged or wither in the heat.   While you’re at it, add air circulation with ceiling fans and outdoor lighting so the good times don’t end at sundown.

Stop by our showroom and take a tour of this complete outdoor kitchen.   Designers Stephanie Nelson or Joyce Zuelke, ckd can answer your questions and walk you through the design of an outdoor kitchen where you can expand all of your cooking and entertaining possibilities.

262-245-9600

201 Geneva National Ave. S.

Lake Geneva, WI 53147

 

/0 Comments/by