Download our free ebook, Creating the Ideal Kitchen. DOWNLOAD NOW   The homeowners came to us looking to update the kitchen in their historic 1897 home. The home had gone through an extensive renovation several years earlier that added a master bedroom suite and updates to the front façade. The kitchen however was not part of that update and a prior 1990’s update had left much to be desired. The client is an avid cook, and it was just not very functional for the family. The original kitchen was very choppy and included a large eat in area that took up more than its fair share of the space. On the wish list was a place where the family could comfortably congregate, that was easy and to cook in, that feels lived in and in check with the rest of the home’s décor. They also wanted a space that was not cluttered and dark – a happy, light and airy room. A small powder room off the space also needed some attention so we set out to include that in the remodel as well. See that arch in the neighboring dining room? The homeowner really wanted to make the opening to the dining room an arch to match, so we incorporated that into the design. Another unfortunate eyesore was the state of the ceiling and soffits. Turns out it was just a series of shortcuts from the prior renovation, and we were surprised and delighted that we were easily able to flatten out almost the entire ceiling with a couple of little reworks. Other changes we made were to add new windows that were appropriate to the new design, which included moving the sink window over slightly to give the work zone more breathing room. We also adjusted the height of the windows in what was previously the eat-in area that were too low for a countertop to work. We tried to keep an old island in the plan since it was a well-loved vintage find, but the tradeoff for the function of the new island was not worth it in the end. We hope the old found a new home, perhaps as a potting table. Designed by: Susan Klimala, CKD, CBD Photography by: Michael Kaskel For more information on kitchen and bath design ideas go to: www.kitchenstudio-ge.com

  Free ebook, Creating the Ideal Kitchen. DOWNLOAD NOW   Maximizing the floor plan of this family's 1950's split level ranch was priority one for the project. The kitchen and dining room were flip flopped and the space was opened up to allow for today's casual lifestyle. The new kitchen has ample storage, professional appliances and a peninsula with seating for guests. The wall was removed so that the space flows together. Floating cabinets were added in the dining area for additional storage. A new french door extends the space to outdoors. Designed by: Susan Klimala, CKD, CBD Photography by: Carlos Vergara For more information on kitchen and bath design ideas go to: www.kitchenstudio-ge.com

New Construction- The big challenge of this kitchen was the lack of wall cabinet space due to the large number of windows, and the client’s desire to have furniture in the kitchen . The view over a private lake is worth the trade, but finding a place to put dishes and glasses became problematic. The house was designed by Architect, Jack Jenkins and he allowed for a walk in pantry around the corner that accommodates smaller countertop appliances, food and a second refrigerator. Back at the Kitchen, Dishes & glasses were placed in drawers that were customized to accommodate taller tumblers. Base cabinets included rollout drawers to maximize the storage. The bookcase acts as a mini-drop off for keys on the way out the door. A second oven was placed on the island, so the microwave could be placed higher than countertop level on one of the only walls in the kitchen. Wall space was exclusively dedicated to appliances. The furniture pcs in the kitchen was selected and designed into the plan with dish storage in mind, but feels spontaneous in this casual and warm space. Homeowners have grown children, who are often home. Their extended family is very large family. Father’s Day they had a small gathering of 24 people, so the kitchen was the heart of activity. The house has a very restful feel and casually entertain often.Multiple work zones for multiple people. Plenty of space to lay out buffet style meals for large gatherings.Sconces at window, slat board walls, brick tile backsplash, Bathroom Vanity, Mudroom, & Kitchen Space designed by Tara Hutchens CKB, CBD (Designer at Splash Kitchens & Baths) Finishes and Styling by Cathy Winslow (owner of Splash Kitchens & Baths) Photos by Tom Harper.

  Free ebook, Creating the Ideal Kitchen. DOWNLOAD NOW   Collaborations are typically so fruitful and this one was no different. The homeowners started by hiring an architect to develop a vision and plan for transforming their very traditional brick home into a contemporary family home full of modern updates. The Kitchen Studio of Glen Ellyn was hired to provide kitchen design expertise and to bring the vision to life. The bamboo cabinetry and white Ceasarstone countertops provide contrast that pops while the white oak floors and limestone tile bring warmth to the space. A large island houses a Galley Sink which provides a multi-functional work surface fantastic for summer entertaining. And speaking of summer entertaining, a new Nana Wall system — a large glass wall system that creates a large exterior opening and can literally be opened and closed with one finger – brings the outdoor in and creates a very unique flavor to the space. Matching bamboo cabinetry and panels were also installed in the adjoining family room, along with aluminum doors with frosted glass and a repeat of the limestone at the newly designed fireplace. Designed by: Susan Klimala, CKD, CBD Photography by: Carlos Vergara For more information on kitchen and bath design ideas go to: www.kitchenstudio-ge.com

  Free ebook, Creating the Ideal Kitchen. DOWNLOAD NOW   This large open concept kitchen and dining space was created by removing a load bearing wall between the old kitchen and a porch area. The new porch was insulated and incorporated into the overall space. The kitchen remodel was part of a whole house remodel so new quarter sawn oak flooring, a vaulted ceiling, windows and skylights were added. A large calcutta marble topped island takes center stage. It houses a 5’ galley workstation - a sink that provides a convenient spot for prepping, serving, entertaining and clean up. A 36” induction cooktop is located directly across from the island for easy access. Two appliance garages on either side of the cooktop house small appliances that are used on a daily basis. Honeycomb tile by Ann Sacks and open shelving along the cooktop wall add an interesting focal point to the room. Antique mirrored glass faces the storage unit housing dry goods and a beverage center. “I chose details for the space that had a bit of a mid-century vibe that would work well with what was originally a 1950s ranch. Along the way a previous owner added a 2nd floor making it more of a Cape Cod style home, a few eclectic details felt appropriate”, adds Klimala. The wall opposite the cooktop houses a full size fridge, freezer, double oven, coffee machine and microwave. “There is a lot of functionality going on along that wall”, adds Klimala. A small pull out countertop below the coffee machine provides a spot for hot items coming out of the ovens. The rooms creamy cabinetry is accented by quartersawn white oak at the island and wrapped ceiling beam. The golden tones are repeated in the antique brass light fixtures. “This is the second kitchen I’ve had the opportunity to design for myself. My taste has gotten a little less traditional over the years, and although I’m still a traditionalist at heart, I had some fun with this kitchen and took some chances. The kitchen is super functional, easy to keep clean and has lots of storage to tuck things away when I’m done using them. The casual dining room is fabulous and is proving to be a great spot to linger after dinner. We love it!” Designed by: Susan Klimala, CKD, CBD For more information on kitchen and bath design ideas go to: www.kitchenstudio-ge.com

  Free ebook, Creating the Ideal Kitchen. DOWNLOAD NOW   Collaborations are typically so fruitful and this one was no different. The homeowners started by hiring an architect to develop a vision and plan for transforming their very traditional brick home into a contemporary family home full of modern updates. The Kitchen Studio of Glen Ellyn was hired to provide kitchen design expertise and to bring the vision to life. The bamboo cabinetry and white Ceasarstone countertops provide contrast that pops while the white oak floors and limestone tile bring warmth to the space. A large island houses a Galley Sink which provides a multi-functional work surface fantastic for summer entertaining. And speaking of summer entertaining, a new Nana Wall system — a large glass wall system that creates a large exterior opening and can literally be opened and closed with one finger – brings the outdoor in and creates a very unique flavor to the space. Matching bamboo cabinetry and panels were also installed in the adjoining family room, along with aluminum doors with frosted glass and a repeat of the limestone at the newly designed fireplace. Designed by: Susan Klimala, CKD, CBD Photography by: Carlos Vergara For more information on kitchen and bath design ideas go to: www.kitchenstudio-ge.com

Designer: Ralph Lackner, CKD, CBD. Beaded Inset construction, Maple wood, Wyndham Cream finish. Hawks Photography, Tulsa, OK.
Kitchen - french country kitchen idea in Other with a farmhouse sink

  Free ebook, Creating the Ideal Kitchen. DOWNLOAD NOW   My husband and I had the opportunity to completely gut and remodel a very tired 1950’s Garrison colonial. We knew that the idea of a semi-open floor plan would be ideal for our family. Space saving solutions started with the design of a banquet in the kitchen. The banquet’s focal point is the two stained glass windows on either end that help to capture daylight from the adjoining spaces. Material selections for the kitchen were driven by the desire for a bright, casual and uncomplicated look. The plan began with 3 large windows centered over a white farmhouse sink and overlooking the backyard. A large island acts as the kitchen’s work center and rounds out seating options in the room. White inset cabinetry is offset with a mix of materials including soapstone, cherry butcher block, stainless appliances, oak flooring and rustic white tiles that rise to the ceiling creating a dramatic backdrop for an arched range hood. Multiple mullioned glass doors keep the kitchen open, bright and airy. A palette of grayish greens and blues throughout the house helps to meld the white kitchen and trim detail with existing furnishings. In-cabinet lighting as well as task and undercabinet lighting complements the recessed can lights and help to complete the light and airy look of the space. Designed by: Susan Klimala, CKD, CBD For more information on kitchen and bath design ideas go to: www.kitchenstudio-ge.com

  Free ebook, Creating the Ideal Kitchen. DOWNLOAD NOW   Collaborations are typically so fruitful and this one was no different. The homeowners started by hiring an architect to develop a vision and plan for transforming their very traditional brick home into a contemporary family home full of modern updates. The Kitchen Studio of Glen Ellyn was hired to provide kitchen design expertise and to bring the vision to life. The bamboo cabinetry and white Ceasarstone countertops provide contrast that pops while the white oak floors and limestone tile bring warmth to the space. A large island houses a Galley Sink which provides a multi-functional work surface fantastic for summer entertaining. And speaking of summer entertaining, a new Nana Wall system — a large glass wall system that creates a large exterior opening and can literally be opened and closed with one finger – brings the outdoor in and creates a very unique flavor to the space. Matching bamboo cabinetry and panels were also installed in the adjoining family room, along with aluminum doors with frosted glass and a repeat of the limestone at the newly designed fireplace. Designed by: Susan Klimala, CKD, CBD Photography by: Carlos Vergara For more information on kitchen and bath design ideas go to: www.kitchenstudio-ge.com

  Free ebook, Creating the Ideal Kitchen. DOWNLOAD NOW   Collaborations are typically so fruitful and this one was no different. The homeowners started by hiring an architect to develop a vision and plan for transforming their very traditional brick home into a contemporary family home full of modern updates. The Kitchen Studio of Glen Ellyn was hired to provide kitchen design expertise and to bring the vision to life. The bamboo cabinetry and white Ceasarstone countertops provide contrast that pops while the white oak floors and limestone tile bring warmth to the space. A large island houses a Galley Sink which provides a multi-functional work surface fantastic for summer entertaining. And speaking of summer entertaining, a new Nana Wall system — a large glass wall system that creates a large exterior opening and can literally be opened and closed with one finger – brings the outdoor in and creates a very unique flavor to the space. Matching bamboo cabinetry and panels were also installed in the adjoining family room, along with aluminum doors with frosted glass and a repeat of the limestone at the newly designed fireplace. Designed by: Susan Klimala, CKD, CBD Photography by: Carlos Vergara For more information on kitchen and bath design ideas go to: www.kitchenstudio-ge.com

  Free ebook, Creating the Ideal Kitchen. DOWNLOAD NOW   Collaborations are typically so fruitful and this one was no different. The homeowners started by hiring an architect to develop a vision and plan for transforming their very traditional brick home into a contemporary family home full of modern updates. The Kitchen Studio of Glen Ellyn was hired to provide kitchen design expertise and to bring the vision to life. The bamboo cabinetry and white Ceasarstone countertops provide contrast that pops while the white oak floors and limestone tile bring warmth to the space. A large island houses a Galley Sink which provides a multi-functional work surface fantastic for summer entertaining. And speaking of summer entertaining, a new Nana Wall system — a large glass wall system that creates a large exterior opening and can literally be opened and closed with one finger – brings the outdoor in and creates a very unique flavor to the space. Matching bamboo cabinetry and panels were also installed in the adjoining family room, along with aluminum doors with frosted glass and a repeat of the limestone at the newly designed fireplace. Designed by: Susan Klimala, CKD, CBD Photography by: Carlos Vergara For more information on kitchen and bath design ideas go to: www.kitchenstudio-ge.com

Design by: Bill Tweten, CKD, CBD A mix of Crystal cabinets and finishes is used throughout this kitchen adding character and charm to the space. The u-shaped island features Crystal inset Greenfield cabinets in two tones- one a dark espresso and the other a rich rustic cherry. Crystal inset Hampstead cabinet style is seen finished in Designer white for all the tall cabinets. Twisted bar pulls and dover latch pulls are seen on the island while mushroom knobs are used on the wall cabinets. Colonial cream granite pulls all these colors together completing the look for this traditional kitchen.

Bath Design by Deb Bayless, CKD, CBD, Design For Keeps, Napa, CA; Carlos Vergara, photographer
Claw-foot bathtub - mid-sized traditional white tile and stone tile marble floor claw-foot bathtub idea in San Francisco with an undermount sink, raised-panel cabinets, white cabinets, marble countertops, a two-piece toilet and yellow walls

Designed by: Susan Klimala, CKD, CBD For more information on kitchen and bath design ideas go to: www.kitchenstudio-ge.com
Inspiration for a timeless kitchen remodel in Chicago with stainless steel appliances, soapstone countertops and beige backsplash

Designed by: Susan Klimala, CKD, CBD Photo by: Dawn Jackman For more information on kitchen and bath design ideas go to: www.kitchenstudio-ge.com

After completing their kitchen several years prior, this client had us back to update their powder room in this 1930’s home. The Powder Room that is also used occasionally as a full guest bath, was gutted and reworked to accommodate more storage and updated fixtures and accessories. Pretty details such as the floral wallpaper and crystal light fixtures give the room a formal feel that makes it worth a visit. Designed by: Susan Klimala, CKD, CBD For more information on kitchen and bath design ideas go to: www.kitchenstudio-ge.com

Design Objectives: - Create a restful getaway - Create updated contemporary feel - Provide a large soaking tub - Take advantage of soaring vaulted ceiling to create drama Special Features - Ceiling mounted pendant lighting on angled vaulted ceiling - Wall hung vanities with lighted toe kick - Custom plinth block provides deck for roman faucet - Easy to maintain porcelain tile floor & quartz countertops - Rainhead & personal body sprays in bath Cabinetry: Jay Rambo, Door style - Torino, Finish - Canadian Oak. Tile: Main floor - Exedra Calacatta Silk, Shower floor - Exedra Calacatta, Shower walls, plinth & ceiling - Exedra Callacatta Silk Plumbing: Tub - MTI, Faucets - Danze, Sinks - Kohler, Toilet - Toto Countertops: Material - Silestone Hanstone Bianco Canvas, Edge profile - Square Designed by: Susan Klimala, CKD, CBD Photo by: Dawn Jackman For more information on kitchen and bath design ideas go to: www.kitchenstudio-ge.com

Designed by: Susan Klimala, CKD, CBD For more information on kitchen and bath design ideas go to: www.kitchenstudio-ge.com
Example of a classic kitchen design in Chicago with a farmhouse sink, medium tone wood cabinets and soapstone countertops

Inspiration for a country kitchen remodel in Grand Rapids