Free ebook, Creating the Ideal Kitchen. DOWNLOAD NOW   Collaborations with builders on new construction is a favorite part of my job. I love seeing a house go up from the blueprints to the end of the build. It is always a journey filled with a thousand decisions, some creative on-the-spot thinking and yes, usually a few stressful moments. This Naperville project was a collaboration with a local builder and architect. The Kitchen Studio collaborated by completing the cabinetry design and final layout for the entire home. The kitchen is spacious and opens into the neighboring family room. A 48” Thermador range is centered between two windows, and the sink has a view through a window into the mudroom which is a unique feature. A large island with seating and waterfall countertops creates a beautiful focal point for the room. A bank of refrigeration, including a full-size wine refrigerator completes the picture. The area between the kitchen and dining room houses a second sink and a large walk in pantry. The kitchen features many unique storage elements important to the new homeowners including in-drawer charging stations, a cutlery divider, knife block, multiple appliance garages, spice pull outs and tray dividers. There’s not much you can’t store in this room! Cabinetry is white shaker inset styling with a gray stain on the island. At the bottom of the stairs is this nice little display and storage unit that ties into the color of the island and fireplace. Designed by: Susan Klimala, CKBD Builder: Hampton Homes Photography by: Michael Alan Kaskel For more information on kitchen and bath design ideas go to: www.kitchenstudio-ge.com

  Free ebook, Creating the Ideal Kitchen. DOWNLOAD NOW   This condo in downtown Chicago has amazing views of the city, Soldier Field and the Shedd Aquarium. The client’s goal was to update the inside view to make it more compatible with those looking out. Upper cabinets hanging over the peninsula of the existing kitchen blocked the magnificent view, so those had to go. The existing layout wasn’t bad but we felt with a few small changes it could be great. We started by separating the ovens and the fridge so that there was more symmetry and functionality to the design. And we made a more dramatic feature wall along the back elevation to showcase the cooktop area. An existing soffit was extended towards the side door to give it a more intentional look and to provide a more built-in appearance to the new pantry cabinets that were added to the left of the fridge. Semi-custom cherry cabinetry, open shelving, waterfall quartz countertops and Carrera marble backsplash tile give the space a decidedly contemporary feel perfect for city living. Now the cook can easily interact with guests and simultaneously enjoy the incredible views that the space offers. Designed by: Susan Klimala, CKD, CBD Photography by: Mike Kaskel For more information on kitchen and bath design ideas go to: www.kitchenstudio-ge.com

This previously unused attic space is now a sauna/yoga room. The left sauna wall follows the attic rafters down diagonally to allow a wider space for leg room on the twin sauna benches.

  Free ebook, Creating the Ideal Kitchen. DOWNLOAD NOW   This client wanted a complete update of their kitchen and came to us with several objectives. They wanted a larger island and easier access to the dining room. They also wanted to eliminate the existing cooktop location from the island and make the island larger. Because the existing space was not able to accommodate all those requests, we decided to eliminate the breakfast area and incorporate that space into the kitchen. By eliminating an existing bay window and making the kitchen sink window larger, we were able to make the new layout work without sacrificing any natural light. A French door to the newly added and adjoining sunroom and casual outdoor dining spot still allows for multiple dining options. And by enlarging the opening to the dining room, it allows for easier access to this space on a daily basis versus for special occasions only. The client already had a large desk in the kitchen and spends a lot of time at this area. We were able to make the new desk even larger by moving the refrigerator to another area. The refrigerator is covered in decorative panels so that it blends nicely into the furniture look of the room. The larger island can now seat several people comfortably. The room’s traditional feel was achieved by providing different finishes on the perimeter, island and desk cabinetry. Handmade gray backsplash tile, a combination of soapstone and Carrera marble give the space a classic appeal. Details provide interest – custom glass mullions, decorative wood hood and bronze hardware give the space character and charm. Designed by: Susan Klimala, CKD, CBD Interior Design by: Rachel Alcorn Architect: Rick Rearick Contractor: KJN Renovations Photography by: Mike Kaskel For more information on kitchen and bath design ideas go to: www.kitchenstudio-ge.com

  Free ebook, Creating the Ideal Kitchen. DOWNLOAD NOW   This client came to us wanting some help with updating the master bath in their home. Their primary goals were to increase the size of the shower, add a rain head, add a freestanding tub and overall freshen the feel of the space. The existing layout of the bath worked well, so we left the basic footprint the same, but increased the size of the shower and added a freestanding tub on a bit of an angle which allowed for some additional storage. One of the most important things on the wish list was adding a rainhead in the shower, but this was not an easy task with the angled ceiling. We came up with the solution of using an extra long wall-mounted shower arm that was reinforced with a meal bracket attached the ceiling. This did the trick, and no extra framing or insulation was required to make it work. The materials selected for the space are classic and fresh. Large format white oriental marble is used throughout the bath, on the floor in a herrinbone pattern and in a staggered brick pattern on the walls. Alder cabinets with a gray stain contrast nicely with the white marble, while shiplap detail helps unify the space and gives it a casual and cozy vibe. Storage solutions include an area for towels and other necessities at the foot of the tub, roll out shelves and out storage in the vanities and a custom niche and shaving ledge in the shower. We love how just a few simple changes can make such a great impact! Designed by: Susan Klimala, CKBD Photography by: LOMA Studios For more information on kitchen and bath design ideas go to: www.kitchenstudio-ge.com

  Free ebook, Creating the Ideal Kitchen. DOWNLOAD NOW   This was a fun and special project for me to work on – it’s my parent’s new (to them) townhome. Downsizing from their previous home, and I collaborated with my architect father on redesigning their kitchen and master bathroom. Opening up the layout on the 1st floor was on the top of their list. They hoped to make it possible for whoever was cooking in the kitchen was still able to interact with people in family room and the dining room easily. An existing wall between the family room and the kitchen, made the kitchen feel cut off from the rest of the house. By removing the wall, we were able to turn the kitchen layout from the standard "U" shape kitchen to a galley which allowed for more storage and countertop space. White Dove frameless cabinetry from Woodharbor was used to give the space a light and fresh feel, while maximizing space within for easy storage. A built in-hutch in the dining room was added for additional storage without encroaching in the room itself. The master bathroom was completely remodeled as well from head-to-toe. The existing layout was not conducive to my parent’s daily lifestyle. It had one vanity, an awkward corner tub with a just as awkward corner shower which seemed more like a dungeon than a shower. We gutted the existing bathroom, relocated a wall to create a large walk-in closet, omitted the tub, and created a nice spa like shower. The new layout also allowed them to have a double vanity with a small make-up area in between. Some features we added into the bathroom were heated floors, which are especially nice during the cold Chicago winters, custom marble tile as an accent in the shower, and a custom shower enclosure which really kept the room open. Designed by: Keri Pryde Photography by: Mike Kaskal For more information on kitchen and bath design ideas go to: www.kitchenstudio-ge.com

  Free ebook, Creating the Ideal Kitchen. DOWNLOAD NOW   One of my favorite things to work on is older homes with a bit of history because I find it an interesting challenge to marry the historical architectural features of a home with modern design elements that work well for my client’s current lifestyle. This home was particularly fun because it was the second kitchen we had done for this family and was quite a departure from the style of the first kitchen. The before shot of the kitchen shows a view from the family room. See the dropped ceiling? We were curious, was this just part of the design or was the dropped ceiling there to hide mechanicals? Well we soon found out that it was mostly decorative (yay!), and with the exception of a little bit of work to some plumbing from an upstairs bathroom and rerouting of the ventilation system within the original floor joists, we were in the clear, phew! The shot of the completed kitchen from roughly the same vantage point shows how much taller the ceilings are. It makes a huge difference in the feel of the space. Dark and gloomy turned fresh and light! Another serious consideration was what do we do with the skinny transom window above the refrigerator. After much back and forth, we decided to eliminate it and do some open shelving instead. This ended up being one of the nicest areas in the room. I am calling it the “fun zone” because it houses all the barware, wine cubbies and a bar fridge — the perfect little buffet spot for entertaining. It is flanked on either side by pull out pantries that I’m sure will get a ton of use. Since the neighboring room has literally three walls of almost full height windows, the kitchen gets plenty of light. The gold shelving brackets, large pendant fixtures over the island and the tile mural behind the range all pay subtle homage to the home’s prairie style architecture and bring a bit of sparkle to the room. Even though the room is quite large, the work triangle is very tight with the large Subzero fridge, sink and range all nearby for easy maneuvering during meal prep. There is seating for four at the island, and work aisles are generous. Designed by: Susan Klimala, CKD, CBD Photography by: LOMA Studios For more information on kitchen and bath design ideas go to: www.kitchenstudio-ge.com

  Free ebook, Creating the Ideal Kitchen. DOWNLOAD NOW   The clients thought that they did not want the sink on the island, however, Klimala convinced them that locating it there would provide them with a more comfortable work triangle and allow breathing room for the design. A new arched opening to the dining room provides for more of an open space for ease of daily use and practical entertaining. The large island workspace seats three comfortably and provides a view to the backyard in two directions while cozying up to the existing fireplace which is a lovely focal point for the space. The clients love of nature and desire for a tranquil space helped determine the beach inspired palette of sand, green and blue. A textured off white subway tile backsplash with bands of colored glass tile give a sense of rhythm to the simple lines of the space. A farm sink and a decorative stainless hood add personality to the room. 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   The clients thought that they did not want the sink on the island, however, Klimala convinced them that locating it there would provide them with a more comfortable work triangle and allow breathing room for the design. A new arched opening to the dining room provides for more of an open space for ease of daily use and practical entertaining. The large island workspace seats three comfortably and provides a view to the backyard in two directions while cozying up to the existing fireplace which is a lovely focal point for the space. The clients love of nature and desire for a tranquil space helped determine the beach inspired palette of sand, green and blue. A textured off white subway tile backsplash with bands of colored glass tile give a sense of rhythm to the simple lines of the space. A farm sink and a decorative stainless hood add personality to the room. 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   Our clients moved into their house two years’ ago “in spite of the bathrooms”, intent on remodeling them sometime in the near future. The house is lovely a midcentury ranch set on a sprawling lot. They had saved some photos to Pinterest as inspiration as a starting point so we set out to put all those pieces together. Notice all the wasted space in the hallway by the closet in the before picture? Well, we decided to incorporate that area into the bathroom itself so that we could have extra room for cabinets as well as the light and view from the window to the great outdoors. We mixed metals — chrome fixtures and lighting and black hardware and mirrors. We kept the rest of the materials neutral since it’s a smaller space. The homeowners needed storage, so we did a double vanity with a linen cabinet at one end. We installed an acrylic tub with simple white subway tile and a storage niche for shampoo. The end result is fresh, clean and functional. Designed by: Susan Klimala, CKD, CBD Photography by: Michael Alan Kaskel For more information on kitchen and bath design ideas go to: www.kitchenstudio-ge.com

Download our free ebook, Creating the Ideal Kitchen. DOWNLOAD NOW For many, extra time at home during COVID left them wanting more from their homes. Whether you realized the shortcomings of your space or simply wanted to combat boredom, a well-designed and functional home was no longer a want, it became a need. Tina found herself wanting more from her Old Irving Park home and reached out to The Kitchen Studio about adding function to her kitchen to make the most of the available real estate. At the end of the day, there is nothing better than returning home to a bright and happy space you love. And this kitchen wasn’t that for Tina. Dark and dated, with a palette from the past and features that didn’t make the most of the available square footage, this remodel required vision and a fresh approach to the space. Lead designer, Stephanie Cole’s main design goal was better flow, while adding greater functionality with organized storage, accessible open shelving, and an overall sense of cohesion with the adjoining family room. The original kitchen featured a large pizza oven, which was rarely used, yet its footprint limited storage space. The nearby pantry had become a catch-all, lacking the organization needed in the home. The initial plan was to keep the pizza oven, but eventually Tina realized she preferred the design possibilities that came from removing this cumbersome feature, with the goal of adding function throughout the upgraded and elevated space. Eliminating the pantry added square footage and length to the kitchen for greater function and more storage. This redesigned space reflects how she lives and uses her home, as well as her love for entertaining. The kitchen features a classic, clean, and timeless palette. White cabinetry, with brass and bronze finishes, contrasts with rich wood flooring, and lets the large, deep blue island in Woodland’s custom color Harbor – a neutral, yet statement color – draw your eye. The kitchen was the main priority. In addition to updating and elevating this space, Tina wanted to maximize what her home had to offer. From moving the location of the patio door and eliminating a window to removing an existing closet in the mudroom and the cluttered pantry, the kitchen footprint grew. Once the floorplan was set, it was time to bring cohesion to her home, creating connection between the kitchen and surrounding spaces. The color palette carries into the mudroom, where we added beautiful new cabinetry, practical bench seating, and accessible hooks, perfect for guests and everyday living. The nearby bar continues the aesthetic, with stunning Carrara marble subway tile, hints of brass and bronze, and a design that further captures the vibe of the kitchen. Every home has its unique design challenges. But with a fresh perspective and a bit of creativity, there is always a way to give the client exactly what they want [and need]. In this particular kitchen, the existing soffits and high slanted ceilings added a layer of complexity to the lighting layout and upper perimeter cabinets. While a space needs to look good, it also needs to function well. This meant making the most of the height of the room and accounting for the varied ceiling features, while also giving Tina everything she wanted and more. Pendants and task lighting paired with an abundance of natural light amplify the bright aesthetic. The cabinetry layout and design compliments the soffits with subtle profile details that bring everything together. The tile selections add visual interest, drawing the eye to the focal area above the range. Glass-doored cabinets further customize the space and give the illusion of even more height within the room. While her family may be grown and out of the house, Tina was focused on adding function without sacrificing a stunning aesthetic and dreamy finishes that make the kitchen the gathering place of any home. It was time to love her kitchen again, and if you’re wondering what she loves most, it’s the niche with glass door cabinetry and open shelving for display paired with the marble mosaic backsplash over the range and complimenting hood. Each of these features is a stunning point of interest within the kitchen – both brag-worthy additions to a perimeter layout that previously felt limited and lacking. Whether your remodel is the result of special needs in your home or simply the excitement of focusing your energy on creating a fun new aesthetic, we are here for it. We love a good challenge because there is always a way to make a space better – adding function and beauty simultaneously.

Go earth-friendly by ditching your existing wood-burning fireplace and using this EB1212 Ethanol Fireplace Burner Insert instead. Just stick this insert into your existing fireplace and start burning eco-friendly ethanol instead of wood. Help the planet breathe easier while also eliminating the mess, soot, and fuss of using a wood-burning unit. This sleek-looking insert holds up to 5 liters of fuel and it burns around 8 hours between fills, so it will keep you toasty warm and comfy all day long. This double-layered unit has an approximate output of 11,500 BTUs, so it can sufficiently heat an average-sized space, and it comes with a bonus damper tool. Dimensions: 12" x 12" x 4 1/2". FEATURES: Ventless - no chimney, no gas or electric lines required Easy or no maintenance required Capacity: 5 Liters Approximate burn time - 8 - 16 hours per refill Approximate BTU output: ~ 11500 Double Layer Dimensions: 12" x 12" x 4 1/2" Product Weight: 14.5 Pounds 3-year manufacturer's warranty DOWNLOADS: RECOMMENDED FUEL: Ethanol fuel burns cleanly and does not produce the soot, smoke, or mess that is normally associated with a wood-burning fireplace. This ethanol fireplace fuel is made from 100% alcohol without the use of any oil at all. Ethanol is produced from renewable agriculture products, like barley, grains, sunflowers, corn, wheat, and potatoes, and manufactured in an earth-friendly process that does not harm the environment. Ignis Ethanol Fuel - 3, 6, 12, or 24 Pack

Example of a transitional bedroom design in San Francisco

ELEN-prosjektet viser frem en sammenhengende samling bestående av tre sammenkoblede deler: et høyt garderobeskap, en allsidig bokhylle og en slank konsoll med et tilhørende speil. Designet legger vekt på en harmonisk palett av dempede grønntoner, varme tresorter og elegante gulldetaljer, noe som skaper en sofistikert men innbydende atmosfære. Garderobeskapet har klassiske rammede fronter, supplert med semi-sirkulære håndtak som tilfører et snev av raffinement. Innvendig er det utstyrt med gjennomtenkte organiserte hyller, skuffer og hengestenger, alle opplyst av integrert belysning for å sikre optimal synlighet og bekvemmelighet. Bokhyllen tilbyr både åpne og lukkede rom, og gir allsidige oppbevaringsmuligheter for bøker og dekorative gjenstander samtidig som den opprettholder den konsistente tresmaken. Den smale konsollen, fremhevet av slanke gullben og en funksjonell skuff, fungerer som en stilig inngang eller sidebord. Den er parret med et grønnrammet speil og matchende veggpaneler, noe som forbedrer den visuelle enheten på tvers av rom. Gjennom hele designet sikrer nøye oppmerksomhet på fargeskjemaer, materialvalg og detaljer en sømløs og elegant integrasjon av møbelstykkene på tvers av ulike rom. download

  Free ebook, Creating the Ideal Kitchen. DOWNLOAD NOW   This project started out as a kitchen remodel but ended up as so much more. As the original plan started to take shape, some water damage provided the impetus to remodel a small upstairs hall bath. Once this bath was complete, the homeowners enjoyed the result so much that they decided to set aside the kitchen and complete a large master bath remodel. Once that was completed, we started planning for the kitchen! The original kitchen was just large enough to accommodate an island and a separate pantry but felt a little cramped, especially during the weekends when the couple likes to entertain. The primary goal was to maintain the functionality of the current space, but to add some breathing room as well as to provide a view to the homeowner’s side yard and substantial Hosta garden. The solution was to bump out the space about 10 feet which provided ample room for large pro appliances, a large island for gathering and an upgraded pantry space. It was important to the homeowners to create a space that felt like it belonged in their historic 1866 home. Details such as matching new trim to the existing large custom profiles in the original home and re-purposing an existing door to be used for the new pantry, provided these touches. A large window at the main sink provides that view into the yard and a beautiful focal point for the room. A mix of painted wood and stained cabinetry gives the new kitchen a sense of belonging in the older home, as do the Super White quartzite that has the look of marble, subway tile backsplash, polished nickel lanterns and glass and mirrored doors. The large pantry, filled with custom shelving built to the homeowner’s specifications, stainless steel appliances and the two Galley Workstations – sinks that do double duty as prep space – ensure that not only does the kitchen look great, but also functions in a personalized manner that works perfectly for the occupants. Doing the bump out also allowed the opportunity for a small mudroom and powder room right off the kitchen as well as re-arranging some openings to allow for better traffic flow throughout the entire first floor. The result is a comfortable up-to-date home that feels both steeped in history yet allows for today’s style of living. Designed by: Susan Klimala, CKD, CBD Photography by: Michael Alan Kaskel For more information on kitchen and bath design ideas go to: www.kitchenstudio-ge.com

Free ebook, CREATING THE IDEAL KITCHEN Download now → http://bit.ly/idealkitchen This Glen Ellyn couple wanted to transform their dated kitchen into a more family-friendly space to use on a daily basis for cooking family meals and for entertaining friends. The existing kitchen was quite chopped up with strange soffits and different ceiling heights. To make the space flow in a more logical manner, we borrowed an unused desk area from the adjoining hallway and reconfigured a neighboring bath. Getting it to work on paper was fairly straightforward, but there was a bit of complicated beam work involved as the new kitchen flows through what was an old exterior wall. The new ceiling is now completely flush as we were able to hide the support in the ceiling joists. A new, larger window was added at the sink, the doorway to the room was widened and the resulting space creates a more easy flow from dining room to family room. The clients chose white inset cabinets, white marble tops and an apron sink to keep the space feeling simple yet original to the home's Colonial styling. Ship lap siding on the back of the island and at the pantry storage ceiling, a walnut butcher block, and antique brass details give the space an updated look. Professional stainless appliances are functional and beautiful. In addition to a large built-in fridge and 36" range, a second oven is housed in the island for flexibility. The pantry area has a convenience station that houses the family's espresso machine along with the microwave drawer. Another large bank of cabinets in the same area serves as pantry storage for dry goods. The bathroom was also remodeled as part of this project. The full bath has a vanity, shower and convenient baby changing area. The floor is encaustic tile, a type of concrete tile recognizable by its bold graphics. The mirror and lighting add a few modern touches to keep it in line with the Owner's personal style. 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

Put an end to the mess and the fuss of using a wood-burning fireplace by inserting this EBG300 Ethanol Fireplace Grate into your existing unit. This sleek, round burner insert and grate set uses eco-friendly ethanol, so you won't experience any of the soot, ash, or gas release that is associated with burning wood while still enjoying the look and atmosphere of an open flame. It holds three full liters of ethanol fuel, which is enough to burn for a full 13.5 hours before another refill is required. This 5,000-BTU burner is sufficiently sized for heating an average-sized room without the need for a chimney or special ventilating system. FEATURES: Ventless - no chimney, no gas or electric lines required Easy or no maintenance required. Capacity: 3 Liters Approximate burn time - 13.5 hours per refill Approximate BTU output - 5000 Eco-Friendly - doesn't produce any smoke, sooth or dangerous gases Easy Maintenance - just wipe it with a damp cloth once in a while Dimensions: Grate - 14.5" x 14.5" x 6"; Burner - 11" x 11" x 4.5" Product Weight: 15 Pounds DOWNLOADS: VIDEO: RECOMMENDED FUEL: Ethanol fuel burns cleanly and does not produce the soot, smoke, or mess that is normally associated with a wood-burning fireplace. This ethanol fireplace fuel is made from 100% alcohol without the use of any oil at all. Ethanol is produced from renewable agriculture products, like barley, grains, sunflowers, corn, wheat, and potatoes, and manufactured in an earth-friendly process that does not harm the environment Ignis Ethanol Fuel - 3, 6, 12, or 24 Pack

  Free ebook, Creating the Ideal Kitchen. DOWNLOAD NOW   Our clients came in after thinking a long time about what to do with their kitchen – new cabinets or paint them, white kitchen or wood, custom or is semi-custom? All good questions to ask! They were committed to making this home for a while, they decided to do a full remodel. The kitchen was not living up to its potential both visually and functionally. The dark cabinets and countertop made the room feel dull. And the major drawback, a large corner pantry that was eating into the room, make it appear smaller than it was. We started by ditching the corner pantry. It created a perfectly centered spot for the new professional range and made room for a much larger island that now houses a beverage center, microwave drawer, seating for three and tons of storage. The multi-generational family does a ton of cooking, so this kitchen gets used! We spent lots of time fine tuning the storage devices and planning where critical items would be stored. This included the new pantry area across from the refrigerator that houses small appliances and food staples. Designed by: Susan Klimala, CKBD Photography by: LOMA Studios For more information on kitchen and bath design ideas go to: www.kitchenstudio-ge.com

Cozy up to the warm feel of this Ferrum Wall Mounted Ventless Ethanol Fireplace. This sleek, modern fireplace features a solid stainless steel top plate and an attractive glass shield for a look that is contemporary and chic. This ventless fireplace mounts on the wall and feature an approximate BTU output of 6,000 BTUs. Its design makes it possible to enjoy the open flame and atmosphere of a traditional fireplace without the the need for wiring or vents. Light the flame and enjoy up to five hours of heat per burner refill. Although this wall mount fireplace unit is compact and takes up very little room on your wall, it will add a warm, toasty ambiance to most average-sized rooms. Dimensions: 31.5" x 19.75" x 14". FEATURES: Ventless - no chimney, no gas or electric lines required Easy or no maintenance required Easy Installation - Can be mounted directly on the wall or recessed (mounting brackets included) Capacity: 1.5 Liter Approximate burn time - 5 - 9 hours per refill Approximate BTU output - 6000 Dimensions: 31.5" x 19.75" x 14" DOWNLOADS: VIDEO: RECOMMENDED FUEL: Ethanol fuel burns cleanly and does not produce the soot, smoke, or mess that is normally associated with a wood-burning fireplace. This ethanol fireplace fuel is made from 100% alcohol without the use of any oil at all. Ethanol is produced from renewable agriculture products, like barley, grains, sunflowers, corn, wheat, and potatoes, and manufactured in an earth-friendly process that does not harm the environment. Ignis Ethanol Fuel - 3, 6, 12, or 24 Pack