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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.

 

Your laundry room design can save time and lighten your load!

Do you like keep up with laundry daily or dedicate one time per week to conquer this challenge?

The answer to this and other key factors will influence the design.

  • How many people live in your home?
  • Is anyone or everyone involved in fitness or sports?
  • Does everyone at home have enough basics to get through the week?
  • Do allergies or sensitivities require special laundry handling?
  • Is most clothing “easy-care” or “handle-with-care”?

This information will help your Geneva Cabinet designer guide you to the right solutions.

  For details about where to locate your laundry room and how large it should be, check our past blog.  But for now, let’s take a look at the latest pick-me-ups for wash day.

Make Functional Fabulous

Inspire your day with a perky laundry room

Plato Woodwork, Lowell Custom Homes, Shanna Wolf Photography

In the past, the laundry was consigned to the basement or squeezed into the mudroom.  We prefer a fresh approach that will place a positive spin on the task.   Since laundry is inevitable, why not make the task more pleasant?  Go from functional to fabulous by adding color and pattern to your space.  Easy-to-clean wallcovering is the perfect backdrop for durable cabinetry.

laundry room trends

Kippps Bay Showhouse, Designer David Fazier, Staff Photo

This year the Kipps Bay Showhouse flooded the laundry room with a matching pattern for wallcovering and fabric.  The cafe style curtain hides washer, dryer and sorting bins behind a classic acanthus pattern from Sloan.

Laundry Room Multitasking

Hybrid laundry rooms

Woodmode, Lowell Custom Homes, Elizabeth Drake Interior Design, Victoria McHugh Photography

Laundry space is the ideal place for multitasking.  This is a natural for built in flexibility.   The sink can be used to presoak and rinse clothes, as well as potting plants or cleaning art supplies.   Cabinetry will conceal laundry while providing space for games and craft supplies.  A home office, art studio, or craft station would all be compatible, with plenty of shared counter space.

Laundry Innovations

Fall in love with a 2-in-1 Washer/Dryer from the GE Profile collection.  This new generation of appliances offers space saving convenience, energy savings, a smart dispenser to hold enough detergent and softener for up to 32 loads, and antimicrobial technology.  Especially notable is the HQ app to keep you appliance software updated.

Learn more about this new technology here.

Compact Second Laundry

second story laundry

Das Holz Haus Cabinetry, Lowell Custom Homes, North Shore Nest Interior Design, Photo by Aimee Mazzenga

Adding a second laundry room, right where the messiness happens, is a real time saver. Popular spots include the Primary Bath, Second Floor Bedroom Hallway, and Pool Bath.  This feature is growing in popularity.  Processing laundry in the same zone eliminates the extra step of carting it around, while conserving personal energy.

plans for laundry

Storage Features

For a weekly laundry schedule, concealed storage is the key to organization.  The addition of a drip dry rod and pull-out hampers will keep the room streamline and clutter free.

Drip Dry Rod, Pull-out Laundry Bin

Shiloh Cabinets, Josh Z Photography – Plato Woodwork, Shanna Wolf Photography

Open Shelving is designed for easy access.  It’s the perfect fit for a daily laundry habit.

Quality Lighting, Open ShelvingPlato Woodwork Cabinetry, Lowell Custom Homes, Shanna Wolf Photography – Lowell Custom Homes, Staff Photo

Countertops & Laundry Sinks

Laundry Sink

Medallion Cabinets, Josh Z Photography

Gone are the days when utility sinks on stilts were the standard.  In today’s modern laundry room, ergonomics wins.  A sink built into the cabinet is good for pre-washing and stain fighting without a deep back bend.  The cabinet base naturally improves storage and increases counter space for folding. For an extra bonus, choose a sink as beautiful as this hammer copper!

Pet Stations

laundry room sink and dog wash

For those with furry friends, adding a pet washing station is a nice fit for a spacious laundry room.  This large basin can also be used for cleaning outdoor equipment and muddy boots as well as pets.  Tile walls will wipe down easily after the final shimmy and shake dry.

Visit our Laundry Room Gallery to make a list of your favorite ideas.

Then Contact Us Here!

 

Bathroom remodeling is one of the most popular home improvements with a very good return on your investment.  But the fear of making a mistake can put plans on hold.  We want to give you the confidence to move forward with peace-of-mind. Our design team is ready to walk you through the process step by step.  It begins by following a few basic rules.

Always Start With Function

It is very likely that function is the key motivator behind a bathroom makeover.  It could be too small, dated, or just not working. For this project, designer Joyce Zuelke, ckbd recreated the primary bath by borrowing space from an adjacent laundry room and hall bath.  The new design delivers a spacious bathroom suite with the bonus of improved laundry storage.

Select Storage With Style

Das Holz Haus Rift Cut White Oak , Corian Quartz, Kohler Sink & Faucet

Style is truly a matter of personal preference. Take the time to browse through the wide variety available in our inspiration gallery.  Make a note when a particular style catches your eye over and over again.   If longevity is the goal, a timeless character is ideal.  This could include Shaker, like this vanity from Das Holz Haus along with Traditional, and Transitional styles.

Choose Easy Access

The curbless zero-threshold shower is a visual delight with functional benefit.  Originating as a solution for those with mobility issues, this design has become the benchmark for an open airy look that eliminates tripping hazards.  The floor tile from Bella Tile and Stone runs seamlessly into the shower through a glass grid shower door.  Overall this is a useful feature when planning ahead for future life stages.

Enhanced Your Shower Experience

It’s so nice to have the options offered by multiple shower heads. A rain shower head is a calming addition to your daily routine with the hand-held unit ideal for helping children, pets or rinsing down the enclosure. The recessed shower niche keeps products within reach while the built in shower bench is a sturdy and generous resting place.

Make Room to Relax

Space is a luxury, so when you have room, upgrade to a freestanding tub where you can relax and rejuvenate.  In todays fast paced world we often forget about the health benefits of soaking in a bathtub.  From soothing sore muscles to improving sleep, bathing may be valuable self-care.

Customize Your Storage

Ultimately, it’s about a bathroom design that makes life easier. Adequate space allows you to organize toiletries and towels, so everything is within reach.  Power outlets in the drawers or cabinets can eliminate the tangled cords allowing you to move on to the business of styling yourself.

Oh, And the Laundry . . .

Medallion Cabinets in the laundry is a wash day winner!

For a seamless remodeling experience visit us in Lake Geneva.  Our showroom is packed with informative product displays and a friendly team to guide you from design to installation.

Photos by Josh Z Photography

Cabinetry from Das Holz Haus

Tile by Bella Tile and Stone Lake Geneva

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

Why suffer through kitchen clutter when attention to your cabinet interiors can smooth the way to a more organized life.  We are all familiar with the popular pull-out waste bin, now imagine that convenience amplified for your entire kitchen.

We always begin the kitchen design process by identifying work zones and the equipment needed for efficient operations. Now we can take it to the next level with the latest specialty fittings for the interior of cabinets, doors and drawers.  These details are sure to impress you with the way they maximize space and ease daily kitchen routines.

Start making your list of improvements with these latest innovations!

Lazy Susan (or more PC, Tiered Corner Rotating Shelf) with Interior Lighting

 

The Blind Corner Organizer

Deep Tiered Drawers for Cookware Next to Range

K-Cup Organizer for the Coffee Station

The Junk Drawer Elevated with Tiered Storage

 

Going Deep With Drawer & Cabinet Pullouts for Cookware & Large Appliances

Full Height Pantry Pull-out Drawers

 

Clear Counters and No Stooping for Paper Towels & Cleaning Supplies

 

Tuck Away a Charging Station Neatly in a Drawer

Knife Block and Food Prep Organizer with Cutting Boards

 

The Cut Out Cutting Board

 

And of course, the Waste & Recycling Pull-outs!

If you are considering new cabinetry for your kitchen, bath or other storage space in your home, we encourage you to plan early and allow time for the industry to catch up with the current shortages.  As always, we look forward to working with you.

Visit our Inspiration Gallery here

 

 

The kitchen work triangle will never go out of style, but a new concept in kitchen design is emerging and we think you’ll like it.  It takes the idea of work zones to the next level.  Traditionally the work triangle included efficient spacing between the refrigerator, sink and range.  But this new approach is expanding that idea to include designated areas for other common kitchen tasks.  With everyone spending more time at home, the addition of specialty stations for drinks, snack, homework and work-at-home is gaining momentum. This is a real plus, especially when we are spending more time at home and all using the kitchen at once.

Kitchen Zones

Multiple and flexible zones are a personalized way to design a kitchen that includes sophisticated storage, integrated appliances and statement backsplashes.  This lovely example features Shiloh Cabinetry for a remodel by Stebnitz Builders.

 

Cooking Zone

Featuring backsplash by Bella Tile and Stone and a range hood by Raw Urth

 

Food Storage Zone

Consumable food storage includes refrigeration and pantry cabinets.

Food Prep Zone

The food preparation zone can be a short distance from cooking zone to allow multiple cooks to work at the same time.

 

Cleaning Zone

A centralized location that allows for free movement between work surfaces, dishwasher and trash.

Storage Zone

Non-consumables storage houses cooking and dining essentials.

 

Storage and Coffee Bar

Specialty areas follow along with each homeowners interests.

 

Dining and Multi-Use Island Surface

A grand island offers casual dining and an expansive work surface for homework, work-at-home or craft projects.

Beverage Bar and Refreshment Station

An additional area adjacent to the main living space can relieve congestion and centralize snack and beverage options.

 

Kitchen Plan Overview

If you are considering a new design for your kitchen, bath or any other storage spaces in your home, be sure to stop in to talk to the designers at Geneva Cabinet Company.

Visit our Inspiration Gallery here

And set up an appointment to visit with our designers by contacting our showroom here.

Photography by Josh Z

 

 

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

 

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

 

Must I Follow Every Code?

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

 

Should I Use Cabinet Doors or Drawers?

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

What type of hardware should I use?

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

Where do I stop the backsplash tile?

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

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

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

How do I choose a countertop edge?

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

 

Can I mix metals and finishes?

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

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

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

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

201 Geneva National Ave S

Lake Geneva, WI

262-245-9600

 

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

Survive the holidays by planning ahead and preparing your kitchen for the bashing it’s about to take! This doesn’t have to be painful, just follow along and start now!

 

Organize those spices, line up the labels and alphabetize if you must!   Just be sure you have a surplus of those often used holiday flavors  like cinnamon, nutmeg and vanilla.

 

Stock the pantry with ingredients for your favorite cooking and baking recipes.  When you have a large walk-in pantry you’ll have plenty of room for precious resources!

Take inventory of your cookware and bakeware to be sure you can accommodate new specialty recipes. We like to use a tall deep pantry cabinet for easy visibility and accessibility.

The same applies to serving pieces.  Gather your large platters into one location now so they are within reach when you’re ready to plate.

 

Be sure you small appliances are in working order, the slow cooker, blender, and mixers are all about to earn their cabinet position.

Make space in your refrigerator and freezer so you will have space to freeze cookies and pre-made dishes.

Plan for clean-up before the party starts with soaps, dishwasher detergent, disinfectants and extra towels.  Now may be the time to treat yourself to that special dishwasher, like the new Cove from SubZero that will clean and sanitize every plate in silence while your entertaining!

Plan your menu in advance to accommodate signature dishes with the most flattering serving pieces.

 

Happy Holiday Wishes

from all of us

at Geneva Cabinet Company!

Explore all of our ideas for organized storage right here!

Then stop in to our Lake Geneva showroom

to be inspired for every room in your home!

201 Geneva National Ave S

Lake Geneva, WI

262-245-9600

Featured Cabinetry is from Shiloh Cabinetry, Plato Woodwork, Inc & Medallion Cabinetry

Photography by Shanna Wolf/S.Photography and Styling