Design Guide to Love Your Laundry Room

Cabinetry, Laundry Room

Often overlooked but impossible to ignore, a laundry room is the workhorse of any home. It is usually assigned the standard treatment with a washer, dryer and maybe wash tub, but it deserves better. Take your laundry area from mundane to multifaceted with our laundry room design tips.

Where should you put your laundry room?

Convenience is the key to efficiency for this space. There are two ways to approach the placement of your laundry.

Keep it close to where you spend most of your time. In the floor plan above not only is it adjacent to the kitchen, but can easily be reached from the center of the home or while coming and going through the garage and outdoor exit.
Position the laundry where the clothes are, as in the bedroom wing of your home.

Before deciding on a new location be mindful of the noise levels produced by your brand of washer and dryer. Adding extra insulation will help soundproof and reduce noise from vibrations during your spin cycle so everyone can sleep through early morning or late night wash emergencies.

How much space do you need?

Lifestyle factors and home size will help decide whether you should have a dedicated laundry or multifunctional room. We like to start every cabinet design project with an evaluation of your space, family members and daily routine. This is when we determine the minimum space requirements and offer ideas that will help you breeze through the laundry.

Often size restraints complicate the natural flow for these common tasks.

sorting
stain treatment and soaking
hand washing delicates
washing bulky items
drip drying
hanging
folding
storage

Ample work space allows you to complete each task in one area without lugging baskets of clothing from laundry room to kitchen or bedroom for special care. At first glance expanding the laundry may seem like an indulgence but when designed with versatility, it is a multitasking dream. Some of our favorite combinations add a laundry zone to these active areas.

mudroom
home office
adult and children craft zone
rec room
gardening space
homework station
workshop

Be open to the idea of borrowing space from an adjoining room. Once freed from a confining closet, laundry tasks easily integrate into your daily routine. That expansive work counter can be used for all types of projects when laundry is finished.

The use of a pocket door or sliding barn door is another space saver we love to completely access to the entire work zone without the interference of an awkward door and door swing.

Ultimately it’s about the caring for your clothing, which can be quite an investment even if you avoid designer labels.

Special Amenities

Are you all about the drip dry or do you love to press in a sharp crease? Whatever your talents, laundry space should be there to support you. Here are some of our favorite features.

Drip Dry Rods & Valet Hooks

Rev-a-Shelf Fold Out Ironing Board

Pull-Out for Laundry Supply Storage & Laundry Bin

Open Shelving for Easy Access & Storage

Multiple Bins to Sort-As-You-Go with Ventilation to Reduce Odors

Double Your Leisure

There is a nostalgic appeal to the laundromat where you can load up several washers and dryers to finish in 1/2 the time. But multiple units at home allow you to be the head honcho of your own laundry universe without pockets full of change. This is a productive solution when you have a large family, frequent guests or an active crew with lots of sweaty workout clothes and uniforms.

You can even tuck in an extra set of stacked washer and dryer units in the master closet, in the bedroom hall, or near any indoor-outdoor activity area.

Style to Smile

Once you’ve created a highly functional laundry, it’s time to tackle it from the standpoint of style. Interesting cabinet doors, bold hardware, colorful appliances and an attractive backsplash will infuse your space with character. You are spending anyway on new tile, cabinets and hardware, why not have a little fun in this space. There is little to no price difference in choosing cherry red over white. Have some fun in this room with the basics or be sure to add art.

Photography by Shanna Wolf S Photography and Victoria McHugh

Explore more of our inspirational ideas here!

And stop in to our Lake Geneva showroom to explore more great cabinetry design and ideas for every room of your home!

201 Geneva National Ave S

Lake Geneva, WI

262-245-9600

May 29, 2019/0 Comments/by Geneva Cabinet Company

This is How New Cabinetry Would Organize Your Life

Cabinetry, Kitchen Design

Clutter is part of life, but having new cabinetry and an organized system is like being born again. Our designers tackle every kitchen project with their eye on the prize, complete order with impeccable style. It starts with the realization that we have a lot of stuff, and sometimes it gets in the way. The secret is to have a place for all of it to go.

The first step is a palette cleanse. In this case the existing cabinets were in great shape so we helped the homeowners with a donation to Habitat for Humanity Restore Milwaukee. On hand is our Project Manager Mike Jeffrey to uninstall the old and remodel the space before installing brand new cabinetry.

We will take you on a walk-through of your daily kitchen routine in order to analyze where you are wasting space and effort. Also a realistic look at what you are storing, and why, will be helpful. Then we get to work on the cabinet layout.

This new design features an essential work triangle customized for easy flow, in, around and through the space. We specify the type of cabinets needed and interior features to best store each kitchen’s content.

Fluidity is key; refrigerator to sink, pantry to countertop, squirrel watching window to water bowl . . . .

When it’s time for filling those cabinets, we encourage a new approach to the traditional system. Consider grouping items you use most often together in an easy to access cabinet location. Breakfast items like toaster, waffle maker, and fry pan should be near your breakfast prep area. This could mean that your cookware is stored according to frequency of use rather than type. Apply the same thought process to china and serving pieces. Don’t waste valuable real estate on things that are only used occasionally.

Spices are the exception, they should be stored together on pull-out racks for easy assessment.

And a designated coffee or beverage bar will energize you at the start of each day.

KitchenAids and cookbooks go together like wine and cheese, so stage your countertop with attractive items that are useful in order to save cabinet space.

And remember that drawers offer the most organized easy to access storage.

We like to group large cabinets together out of the work zone to accommodate medium appliances, serving pieces, Costo-sized supplies and that 50 lb bag of dog food. Here we used double door base cabinets on the front side of an extra-large island for a furniture like appearance.

Finish off your new kitchen with an artistic backsplash. This one from Bella Tile and Stone is the perfect backdrop for an orderly life.

This kitchen features

Medallion Cabinetry with a Craftsman Style Door

Hardware by Top Knobs

Pendant lighting from Old South

Design is by Joyce Zuelke, ckd with installation by Geneva Cabinet Company Project Manager Mike Jefferey

Photography by Shanna Wolf S.Photography and Styling

Stop in to our Lake Geneva showroom to explore more great kitchen and bath looks!

201 Geneva National Ave S

Lake Geneva, WI

262-245-9600

April 16, 2019/0 Comments/by Geneva Cabinet Company

Is your Bathroom Boring? Don’t Throw in the Towel!

Bath Design, Cabinetry, Storage and Organization, Tips and Ideas

There is only so much you can do with a toilet and sink, but cabinetry will transform the style of your bathroom. Don’t let the design of this room be an afterthought. Browse the cabinetry and design ideas below and choose your favorites to elevate the style of your bath!

Double your pleasure

Storage is an integral part of functional design, and an absolute necessity in the master bath. This Craftsman inspired cabinetry provides ample storage for each partner as well as duplicate lighting and mirrors for no crowding during the morning rush.

Just Shelve It

Open shelving expands your storage without closing in the room with more cabinetry. This has become so popular because it pairs storage with convenience at eye level. Just add bath salts and towel rolls, you’re done!

Making It Modern

A long expanse of concrete-style counter with trough sink and wall faucets will make a modern statement. The deep finish on this floating vanity recedes to expand your visual space and simplifies cleaning day. Bonus opportunity for mood enhancing undercabinet lighting at night.

Overcome Pattern Shyness

Those who say neutral is boring obviously don’t know about blending pattern and texture. This bath keeps the finish and color selections on the light side while injecting pattern luxury with name-dropping (Ann Sacks) wall and floor tile.

Dramatic Reading

It may be the only time of day you have any privacy, so enjoy. The rich eclectic design of this powder room creates a true statement. And the furniture inspired vanity lends a sophisticated feel to the space.

Designed to Fit

Logic and simplicity drove the design of this clever hi-low cabinet. The comfort height of the vanity would have run smack into the window. But a slight modification by our designer allowed us to extend the cabinetry for additional storage.

We also like the efficient u-shaped drawer design in this driftwood inspired vanity. It works around pesky pipes to make the most of space.

Open and Shut Cabinet Case

Closed storage paired with an open bottom shelf offers quick and easy access to towels or supplies that can be stored in small hampers.

Here we do it again in natural wood with the addition of a towel bar.

Black and White and Style All Over

It is a classic color combination that features high contrast and endless attraction throughout all periods of design.

And just for fun, note the way designer Elizabeth Drake played with the black and white concept for the various showers in this home but by Lowell Custom Homes.

Finally in the 1-Hour Project Category . . .

This cabinet idea has gone viral on Houzz since we originally posted it in 2013. You can install a hair styling center or use the door mounted basket for shampoos and soaps. We have even seen it done with command hooks to be removable.

The best design ideas are at your fingertips when you browse through our past blogs and the product section page of our website.

And of course, we are always here to assist!

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 Victoria McHugh Photography

September 29, 2018/0 Comments/by Geneva Cabinet Company

Back-to-School Tips Keep You Organized All Year

Cabinetry, Storage and Organization, Tips and Ideas

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

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.

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

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

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.

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

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

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.

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.

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

August 30, 2018/0 Comments/by Geneva Cabinet Company

New Kitchen Island Transforms the Kitchen

Cabinetry, Countertops, Kitchen Design, Kitchen Island

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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June 25, 2018/0 Comments/by Geneva Cabinet Company

Outdoor Kitchen Design Guide

Kitchen Design, Outdoor Kitchen, Trends

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

June 5, 2018/0 Comments/by Geneva Cabinet Company

Detailing a Design is Like Accessorizing an Outfit

Cabinetry, Designer's Corner

When you are a designer the creative juices start flowing the moment your eyes open in the morning. From the outfits I lay out for myself and my three-year-old, to projects I’m designing for my clients.

A good designer doesn’t stop at just the basic cabinetry design. Just like my outfits don’t stop at just the basic clothing. Accessories, like the perfect jacket, jewelry, and shoes, play a big part in pulling the entire look together and sending a message about personal style.

The same thing applies to designing cabinetry in my clients’ homes. I start with a basic, functional plan and then work with the client to develop their individual style. Adding the countertops, lighting and plumbing fixtures is like layering on the accessories and “jewelry”. It begins to make a statement and bring personality to the design. It’s like taking a little black dress and adding either pearls and stilettos, or a jean jacket and cowboy boots. It’s all about individual style.

One tip I like to share with my clients is to add an unexpected detail or “secret treasure” like a flea market find or artistic piece that gives a punch of personality to the room. Price doesn’t matter on this one. It is all about including a piece that is a conversation starter. Think back to that little black dress and pairing that pearl necklace with those cowboy boots. Now you’re talking my language!

We invite you to stop into our Lake Geneva showroom to experience quality cabinetry. Learn how to create that perfectly complete design of your very own.

Get started with a call to us

262-245-9600

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March 21, 2018/0 Comments/by Geneva Cabinet Company

Our Favorite Kitchen Cabinet Storage Solutions

Cabinetry, Trends

Or, Beyond the pull-out trash bin . . .

There’s a lid for every pot, but sometimes you just can’t find it. That’s where we come in with the most organized and clever ideas for cabinet storage. We start with an essential analysis of your home’s physical conditions and then evaluate your lifestyle needs. A good kitchen plan will include cabinet storage to increase your efficiency, while saving you time and energy.

Enjoy a few “oohs and ahhs” in your kitchen with our favorite cabinet storage ideas.

Take it to the top with wall cabinets that make the most of your vertical space.

It’s good to go-low when it maximizes space under a banquet for display and storage.

Behind closed doors you will find everything tidy and within reach when you have tall pantry cabinets.

Secret compartments are always fun, and functional.

Get into the swing of things with shelves that swing-out and eliminate the dead corner cabinet zone.

No space goes to waste with specialized cabinets to house appliances (like this under cabinet microwave) while sneaking in extra storage.

And of course the pull-out category deserves our highest praise.

Pull-out shelving means you never lose track of your grocery items because you can actually see them.

Pull-out towel racks brings an end to the damp disheveled dishtowel.

And last but not least, the pull-out spice rack is a crowd pleaser.

There is so much more we can show you! If you are ready to get organized and increase storage with your very own plan for a more efficient home, start by exploring our Inspiration Gallery!

We invite you to stop in to our Lake Geneva Showroom to touch and feel the latest innovations in cabinetry for your kitchen, and every other room of your home. Our designers would love to help!