---
title: "The Coveted Kitchen — Kitchen & Bath Designers | Houzz"
canonical_html_url: https://www.houzz.com/professionals/kitchen-and-bath-designers/the-coveted-kitchen-pfvwus-pf~1988198320
markdown_url: https://www.houzz.com/md/professionals/pf~1988198320.md
entity_type: LocalBusiness
business_name: "The Coveted Kitchen"
category: ["Kitchen & Bath Designers"]
image: https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/9803333601ea9319_8187-w400-h400-b0-p0--.jpg
address: "13655 Irma Lee Court #130, Lake Forest, Illinois 60045, United States"
latitude: 42.2374
longitude: -87.8482
phone: "(224) 513-5042"
website: http://covetedkitchen.com
rating: 5
review_count: 6
best_of_houzz_awards: 1
followers: 45
last_updated: 2026-09-11
---

# The Coveted Kitchen

Original Houzz profile: [The Coveted Kitchen](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/kitchen-and-bath-designers/the-coveted-kitchen-pfvwus-pf~1988198320)

## Professional summary

- **Primary category:** Kitchen & Bath Designers
- **Location:** Lake Forest, IL
- **Serves:** Chicago, Arlington Heights, Palatine, Buffalo Grove, Wheeling, Northbrook, Mundelein, Gurnee, Highland Park, Vernon Hills, Grayslake, Libertyville, Lake Forest, Deerfield, Prospect Heights, Winnetka, Glencoe, Long Grove, Lincolnshire, Lake Bluff, Highwood, Green Oaks, Riverwoods, Knollwood, Bannockburn, Indian Creek, Mettawa, Fort Sheridan, Great Lakes, Techny
- **Houzz rating:** 5.0 out of 5 (6 reviews)
- **Best of Houzz:** 1 award (2023), for Design.

## About

### Houzz Badges

- Houzz Influencer
- Recommended on Houzz
- 1,000 Ideabook Saves

\*Authorized Medallion & Design-Craft Cabinetry Dealer\*

A full service cabinetry and design studio in Lake Forest, Illinois, The Coveted Kitchen  offers exceptional design coupled with fantastic cabinetry and related products in order to achieve a truly coveted kitchen. And our work does not stop there- We design and create extraordinary kitchens, baths, bars, family rooms, and whole residential homes throughout the Chicagoland area.

### Services Provided

- Kitchen Design
- Custom Cabinets
- Bathroom Design
- Custom Kitchen Cabinets
- 3D Rendering
- Custom Countertops
- Custom Pantries
- Lighting Design
- Laundry Room Design
- Floor Plans
- Project Management
- Mudroom Design
- Universal Design
- Custom Walk-in Closets
- Pantry Design
- Basement Design
- Handicap-Accessible Design
- Wine Cellar Design
- Custom Cabinet Doors

### Areas Served

- Chicago
- Arlington Heights
- Palatine
- Buffalo Grove
- Wheeling
- Northbrook
- Mundelein
- Gurnee
- Highland Park
- Vernon Hills
- Grayslake
- Libertyville
- Lake Forest
- Deerfield
- Prospect Heights
- Winnetka
- Glencoe
- Long Grove
- Lincolnshire
- Lake Bluff
- Highwood
- Green Oaks
- Riverwoods
- Knollwood
- Bannockburn
- Indian Creek
- Mettawa
- Fort Sheridan
- Great Lakes
- Techny

### Typical Job Cost

$5,000 - 500,000

We believe it is important to establish a realistic budget at the beginning of the design process.  We work with all budget ranges and encourage discussions with our clients about budget and expectations from the get-go.  Our typical job costs are $25,000 - $500,000.

## Business Details

| Field | Value |
| --- | --- |
| Business Name | The Coveted Kitchen |
| Address | 13655 Irma Lee Court \#130, Lake Forest, Illinois 60045, United States |
| Phone | (224) 513-5042 |
| Website | http://covetedkitchen.com |
| Followers on Houzz | 45 |

**Social profiles:**
- Blog — http:/covetedkitchen.com

## Contact

- **Houzz profile:** [The Coveted Kitchen](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/kitchen-and-bath-designers/the-coveted-kitchen-pfvwus-pf~1988198320)
- **Website:** http://covetedkitchen.com
- **Phone:** (224) 513-5042

## Credentials

**Certifications & Awards**
- CKD, MBA

- **Best of Houzz:** 1 award (2023), for Design.

## Reviews

**Overall rating: 5.0 out of 5 — 6 reviews**

### All 6 reviews

**★★★★★ — Gretchen Waitley, Nov. 2018**

> We chose The Coveted Kitchen based on a recommendation from a friend who had used them for both kitchen and bathroom remodeling.  It's been almost a year since we finished our kitchen remodel and I still walk into the kitchen and am totally in awe of it.  Karen had a wonderful eye for design and was very professional and pleasant.   She worked well with our contractor, and both of them managed to deliver on time (despite holidays).  Budget ended up being higher than we planned, but that was due to our choices - she was realistic.

**★★★★★ — Isabel Cabanne, Aug. 2018**

> I worked with Karen and Jill to add new kitchen cabinetry to the house I had just moved into. I was referred to them by Wood-Mode. They were professional and courteous throughout the project, as was the installer who did the work. There was a problem with one of the cabinets and they got it corrected without question. They also went beyond expectations in their search to find tile to match the existing tile. I've worked with many contractors, tradesmen and design professionals through the years, and Coveted Kitchen ranks with the best of them. I have already started a furniture project with them and hope to use them for a bathroom remodel.

**★★★★★ — Beth Kweton, Jan. 2018**

> The Coveted Kitchen team is extremely knowledgeable about their product line, have excellent resources and strive for perfection resulting in a wonderful outcome.  Their enthusiasm for the project and meeting their clients' expectations was infectious.  They never dropped the ball - they were onsite for deliveries and inspections, responded quickly to client issues, and stayed on the project time line.  Communication is a priority for the Coveted Kitchen team whether it's was with the clients, the contractors, the designer, etc.

**★★★★★ — Carol Bowman, Jan. 2018**

> We wanted to add a kitchen adjacent to our lower level family room, but the space was limited.  Karen at Coveted Kitchen did a terrific job in design and planning with unique features...a microwave drawer, 18-inch dishwasher, clever corner cabinets.  Everything fit perfectly and looks terrific.  Great job!

**★★★★★ — Sean Collinsworth, Jan. 2018**

> After extensive interviews with several design firms, we hired The Coveted Kitchen to design and install the cabinetry and fixtures in our Western North Carolina mountain home. It was one of the best decisions we made for the entire project. Karen and Doug were not only professional and courteous, they were a complete joy with whom to work. Karen knew all the right questions to ask and was absolutely brilliant in conceptualizing our dream kitchen. Doug steered me towards the best and most reliable appliances and fixtures. Both had no problem being truthful and kept our expectations inline with our budget. I highly recommend them.

**★★★★★ — jdvc, Oct. 2014**

> My husband and I hired The Coveted Kitchen to do the design work for the complete renovation of our kitchen in our 30-year old home. From the first visit to the most recent follow-up, we couldn't have chosen a better company.  Both Karen and her husband, Doug, not only guide you through the design process, but also work with the contractors hired (in our case, we solicited bids from three other contractors, but ended up going with one they suggested, who provided the same level of excellent service), to assure that the results are what the homeowner had hoped. In our case, with resounding success!
>
> Karen Needler combines her skill at design with an astute sensitivity to what the homeowner has in mind.  After meeting with us in our home, her suggestions for cabinet style, countertop, etc. were "spot on" with regard to merging our ideas with the style of the rest of the home.
>
>  She worked with me throughout the process, reducing the myriad of choices to a manageable level. To select the appropriate new appliances, she helped me shop, pointing out features that have proven effective or were not worth the additional cost, given our needs.  She also accompanied me to the granite supplier to help select the slabs needed, which was later followed up by a meeting with the supplier to assure the slabs were cut according to our kitchen's needs.  Of special note is that, once chosen, Karen placed the work order, thus ensuring that the countertop would be ready when our project was ready to receive it. She made the difficult choice of a countertop far easier than expected, with absolutely wonderful results; and also made sure that the material was ready when our project needed it.
>
> There were a few minor challenges along the way (is any project perfect?). But ours were truly minor because either Karen or Doug anticipated, or knew how to address them.  They seem to work well with their quality suppliers, so any problems were quickly resolved.
>
> We became acquainted with The Coveted Kitchen a few years ago in the middle of a master bathroom project that had "gone awry".  They stepped in, worked with the existing contractor and succeeded in completing the project with ease. I would gladly contact then again for any home remodeling project.

## Selected projects

- [Lake Bluff Clean and Classic Kitchen](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/lake-bluff-clean-and-classic-kitchen-pj-vj~2869330)
  - Location: Lake Bluff, IL
  - Photos: 8
  - Description: A classic style with a modern twist, this inset white kitchen and grey island opens to a family room and dining area. Taj Mahal quartzite countertops, paneled refrigerator, custom polished stainless steel hood and polished nickel details make this kitchen worthy of any formal living room.
- [Lincoln Park Traditional White](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/lincoln-park-traditional-white-pj-vj~218611)
  - Location: Chicago, IL
  - Photos: 5
  - Description: Single family kitchen and family room renovation in Lincoln Park includes stainless steel professional range and hood, inset custom white cabinetry and ample storage. The client's request was simple and elegant.
- [Lake Forest Farmhouse Kitchen](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/lake-forest-farmhouse-kitchen-pj-vj~356540)
  - Location: Lake Forest, IL
  - Photos: 5
  - Description: A yellow barn gets a green kitchen. Removing walls and relocating appliances allowed this kitchen to turn into a gourmet cook's dream. The island with seating features a ceruse finish. The kitchen includes a large farmhouse table, a fireplace with seating area, a desk and a silo converted to pantry.
- [Lincoln Park White and Shiny Kitchen](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/lincoln-park-white-and-shiny-kitchen-pj-vj~539690)
  - Location: Chicago, IL
  - Photos: 9
  - Description: Lincoln Park Townhome kitchen renovation features Subzero appliances, Grabill custom white frames cabinetry, and dark countertops. Warm golden tones, mixed metals and a bit of "sparkle" are homeowner's requests.
- [Old Town Timeless Contemporary](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/old-town-timeless-contemporary-pj-vj~355897)
  - Location: chicago, IL
  - Photos: 6
  - Description: This contemporary single family home in Old Town features a classic grey French range, paired with high gloss white cabinetry and custom polished stainless steel cabinet doors with back painted white glass. Full height marble folds up the backsplash and provides a clean contemporary island.
- [Libertyville Traditional](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/libertyville-traditional-pj-vj~719893)
  - Location: Libertyville, IL
  - Photos: 5
  - Description: Kitchen renovation in Libertyville for client who loves to cook. Classic white cabinetry is paired with a traditional grey-green painted island.
- [Lake Bluff Luxury Bath](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/lake-bluff-luxury-bath-pj-vj~356547)
  - Location: Lake Bluff, IL
  - Photos: 3
  - Description: Traditional master bathroom renovated to include a freestanding tub and separate shower.
- [Lake Forest Timeless classic Kitchen with addition](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/lake-forest-timeless-classic-kitchen-with-addition-pj-vj~374880)
  - Location: Lake Forest, IL
  - Photos: 5
  - Description: Classic Lake Forest kitchen addition open to family room is finished with Dark Cheery island with bench seat.
- [Lake Forest Traditional Black and White](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/lake-forest-traditional-black-and-white-pj-vj~374908)
  - Location: Lake Forest, IL
  - Photos: 5
  - Description: Home renovation included relocating kitchen, renovating with Subzero Appliances, custom white and black cabinetry, and black countertops. Kitchen features butcherblock top narrow island, eating area and desk.
- [Lake Bluff Traditional White Kitchen](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/lake-bluff-traditional-white-kitchen-pj-vj~281500)
  - Location: Lake Bluff, IL
  - Photos: 4
  - Description: A classic East Lake Bluff kitchen is renovated to include Professional Subzero/Wolf appliances, white cabinetry and large dark cherry island.
- [Lake Forest Classic White Kitchen](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/lake-forest-classic-white-kitchen-pj-vj~206918)
  - Location: Lake Forest, IL
  - Photos: 5
  - Description: A full house renovation included a new classic white kitchen with stacked cabinets and dark cherry island opening to a hearth room.
- [Lake Forest Traditional Warmth](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/lake-forest-traditional-warmth-pj-vj~374889)
  - Location: Lake Forest, IL
  - Photos: 7
  - Description: A leaky faucet led to a full kitchen renovation, opening up the kitchen to the family room. Warm Alder cabinetry with creamy granite and ceramic tile backsplash provide a functional space for a large family. A plumbing soffit is hidden behind cabinetry doors.
- [Chicago Modern Guest Bath 1](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/chicago-modern-guest-bath-1-pj-vj~355918)
  - Location: Chicago, IL
  - Photos: 3
- [Chicago Modern Master Bath 1](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/chicago-modern-master-bath-1-pj-vj~355915)
  - Location: Chicago, IL
  - Photos: 3
  - Description: Modern Master bathroom with floating double vanity. Shower features full slabs of marble, infinity drains, two flush mounted shower heads and body sprays and custom made stone bench seat. Shower door with barn door hardware.
- [Gold Coast Mini Gourmet](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/gold-coast-mini-gourmet-pj-vj~207846)
  - Location: Not specified
  - Photos: 4
  - Description: Chicago Pied-a-terre renovation includes a
- [Libertyville Dark Cherry Kitchen](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/libertyville-dark-cherry-kitchen-pj-vj~1689640)
  - Location: Libertyville, IL
  - Photos: 8
  - Description: A classic kitchen with dark perimeter cabinetry and light green-grey island opens to a fireplace with matching built- ins. Wetbar, Cubbies, desk area, pantry and bathrooms all create a classic new construction home.
- [Fort Sheridan Walnut Master Bath](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/fort-sheridan-walnut-master-bath-pj-vj~281507)
  - Location: Not specified
  - Photos: 4
  - Description: Contemporary and warm walnut with creamy large format porcelain tiles finishes this renovated master bathroom. A curb-less walk-in shower, under-mount tub set in walnut cabinetry and toilet room create a luxury bath.
- [Fort Sheridan Warm Contemporary with Bamboo](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/fort-sheridan-warm-contemporary-with-bamboo-pj-vj~374929)
  - Location: Chicago, IL
  - Photos: 8
- [Lakeview Luxury Kitchen Renovation](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/lakeview-luxury-kitchen-renovation-pj-vj~2869358)
  - Location: Chicago, IL
  - Photos: 11
- [Riverwoods Transitional White](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/riverwoods-transitional-white-pj-vj~2869340)
  - Location: Not specified
  - Photos: 16
  - Description: A new construction home features inset white stacked shaker cabinetry and Navy blue island in the kitchen. Classic and elegant built-ins in family room and study keep the transitional look. Luxury and timeless elegance.

[See all 26 projects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/kitchen-and-bath-designers/the-coveted-kitchen-pfvwus-pf~1988198320)

## Ideabooks

- [inspirational images](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/103720723/list/inspirational-images) — 17 ideas
- [wileypup's Ideas](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/80444662/list/wileypup-s-ideas) — 2 ideas

[See all 2 ideabooks](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/users/wileypup)

## Community Q&A

**Q: Beautiful kitchen!** *(in Photo Questions)*

Please tell me what back splash you used. It looks great with the Taj Majal and warm floor!

A: Thanks!  The backspalsh tile is a matte glass 2" x 8".  Unfortunatley I do not have the manufacturer information.  The glass has great depth and is easy to clean!

**Q: Kitchen island** *(in Photo Questions)*

Love the island. Could you tell me the dimensions and if that's a cupboard at the end. Am looking to put in a garbage draw. Thank you

A: The width of the island is approximately 21" x 54" -  Yes, that is a three drawer base cabinet facing the LaCanche Range for cutlery and pots/ pans.

**Q: are those wine refrigerators? thanks in advance for a reply!** *(in Photo Questions)*

Love the cabinets!

A: These are custom mahogany shelves with wine bottle cut-outs within a glass front cabinet.  
The bottom includes matte black wine pegs that are great for displaying wine!  Thank you for the compliment-  We created this design with Cabico's Elmwood Series for KBIS-  No wine fridges although you could easily incorporate a wine fridge into a space like this with a custom panel.  
Karen, The Coveted Kitchen

**Q: lights are great!  where from?** *(in Photo Questions)*

A: Unfortunately, my files don't have record of these lights-

**Q: Chandelier** *(in Photo Questions)*

What brand and style is the chandelier please?

A: That fixture is from Hubbardton Forge-

**Q: Counters?** *(in Photo Questions)*

Nice bathroom, what is the counter material?

A: This is a 2 CM Limestone with a straight eased edge

---

*Source: Houzz professional profile. Reflects the profile as of 2026-09-11.*