Search results for "Microwave balance" in Home Design Ideas

Quinn and Paige, residents of this tired 1960’s tri-level home hated their kitchen. As a matter of fact, prior to making plans to renovate the first floor - they considered selling the home, but were reluctant because of its enviable location near the heart of downtown Barrington which was within walking distance to local stores and all their favorite places. So instead they contacted Advance Design Studio after hearing about them from a neighbor, to rescue their tired home and give it new life.
The very first plan was to remove the constricting walls surrounding the original kitchen, and open the expansive first floor living room and dining area to the new heart of the space; a stunning state of the art coastal designed kitchen. Exposing attractive beams in the vaulted ceiling created an interesting structural detail that suits the open plan and salutes the original architecture of the home, further emphasizing the height of the new space enjoyed now by the family as a great room.
The stage was set for the seaside feel of this kitchen by pairing crisp white painted maple cabinets with Dura Supreme’s one of kind hand weathered finish on the island in soft blue-green finish. But the authentic feeling of being on your favorite beach was supremely achieved by the matching of unique Mt. Claire marble on the island and the specialty Wareham acid washed stone on the perimeter counter tops. Pictures don’t do justice to the feel of this stone under your hand; its water-washed texture reminds instantly of summer vacations collecting rocks softly etched by hundreds of waves.
Stainless steel appliances and satin nickel hardware shine brightly against the backdrop of bright white subway tiles accentuated by subtle grey grout lines contributing to the nautical feel of this comfortable kitchen. Seeded glass door cabinetry reminiscent of beach grasses dress up the space just enough, and a proud 6” stacked crown molding extends above 36” wall cabinets into the expanse of the now taller space; balancing this kitchen nicely within its newly integrated home.
Features in this kitchen include a built in standard depth refrigerator, pull out spice racks, tall tray dividers and wood super Susan with double pull out trash and recycling. A cutlery divider holds sharp knives, and an angled cabinet was customized to hold a secret USB charging station. The bright white Kohler farm sink is graced by an elegant bridge faucet in brushed nickel. This now airy and spacious kitchen has room for guest and family to congregate around the large island, complete with stools and attractive hidden storage for seldom used entertainment pieces.
“I was sold when I saw the drawings. My designer nailed it, down to every last storage idea and coastal detail I envisioned, it was all in there. It was unbelievable how accurate her interpretation was of what was in my head; working with her made my kitchen renovation so easy, it’s as if she literally read my mind”, said Paige enthusiastically.
The woman of the house expressed upon completion not only her love for her fantastic new cooking space, but how renovating her kitchen has given new life to the entire home. Talk of moving has been relegated to the recycling bin, and instead the family is discussing plans to renovate the master bath now that they’ve decided to stay for the long term. Friends who visit the home do a double-take as they recognize the new space’s dramatic transformation from original cramped and closed spaces - to the now amazingly fresh open kitchen that has become the center of every gathering and family meal.
Designer: Nicole Ryan
Photographer: Joe Nowak

Our clients in Tower Lakes, IL, needed more storage and functionality from their kitchen. They were primarily focused on finding the right combination of cabinets, shelves, and drawers that fit all their cookware, flatware, and appliances. They wanted a brighter, bigger space with a natural cooking flow and plenty of storage. Soffits and crown molding needed to be removed to make the kitchen feel larger. Redesign elements included: relocating the fridge, adding a baking station and coffee bar, and placing the microwave in the kitchen island.
Advance Design Studio’s Claudia Pop offered functional, creative, and unique solutions to the homeowners’ problems. Our clients wanted a unique kitchen that was not completely white, a balance of design and function. Claudia offered functional, creative, and unique solutions to Chad and Karen’s kitchen design challenges. The first thing to go was soffits. Today, most kitchens can benefit from the added height and space; removing soffits is nearly always step one. Steely gray-blue was the color of choice for a freshly unique look bringing a sophisticated-looking space to wrap around the fresh new kitchen. Cherry cabinetry in a true brown stain compliments the stormy accents with sharp contrasting white Cambria quartz top balancing out the space with a dramatic flair.
“We wanted something unique and special in this space, something none of the neighbors would have,” said Claudia.
The dramatic veined Cambria countertops continue upward into a backsplash behind three complimentary open shelves. These countertops provide visual texture and movement in the kitchen. The kitchen includes two larder cabinets for both the coffee bar and baking station. The kitchen is now functional and unique in design.
“When we design a new kitchen space, as designers, we are always looking for ways to balance interesting design elements with practical functionality,” Claudia said. “This kitchen’s new design is not only way more functional but is stunning in a way a piece of art can catch one’s attention.”
Decorative mullions with mirrored inserts sit atop dual sentinel pantries flanking the new refrigerator, while a 48″ dual fuel Wolf range replaced the island cooktop and double oven. The new microwave is cleverly hidden within the island, eliminating the cluttered counter and attention-grabbing wall of stainless steel from the previous space.
The family room was completely renovated, including a beautifully functional entertainment bar with the same combination of woods and stone as the kitchen and coffee bar. Mesh inserts instead of plain glass add visual texture while revealing pristine glassware. Handcrafted built-ins surround the fireplace.
The beautiful and efficient design created by designer Claudia transitioned directly to the installation team seamlessly, much like the basement project experience Chad and Karen enjoyed previously.
“We definitely will and have recommended Advance Design Studio to friends who are looking to embark on a project small or large,” Karen said.
“Everything that was designed and built exactly how we envisioned it, and we are really enjoying it to its full potential,” Karen said.
Our award-winning design team would love to create a beautiful, functional, and spacious place for you and your family. With our “Common Sense Remodeling” approach, the process of renovating your home has never been easier. Contact us today at 847-665-1711 or schedule an appointment.

Transitional l-shaped kitchen photo in Seattle with an undermount sink, shaker cabinets, white cabinets, quartz countertops, green backsplash, matchstick tile backsplash, stainless steel appliances and an island
Find the right local pro for your project

Our clients in Tower Lakes, IL, needed more storage and functionality from their kitchen. They were primarily focused on finding the right combination of cabinets, shelves, and drawers that fit all their cookware, flatware, and appliances. They wanted a brighter, bigger space with a natural cooking flow and plenty of storage. Soffits and crown molding needed to be removed to make the kitchen feel larger. Redesign elements included: relocating the fridge, adding a baking station and coffee bar, and placing the microwave in the kitchen island.
Advance Design Studio’s Claudia Pop offered functional, creative, and unique solutions to the homeowners’ problems. Our clients wanted a unique kitchen that was not completely white, a balance of design and function. Claudia offered functional, creative, and unique solutions to Chad and Karen’s kitchen design challenges. The first thing to go was soffits. Today, most kitchens can benefit from the added height and space; removing soffits is nearly always step one. Steely gray-blue was the color of choice for a freshly unique look bringing a sophisticated-looking space to wrap around the fresh new kitchen. Cherry cabinetry in a true brown stain compliments the stormy accents with sharp contrasting white Cambria quartz top balancing out the space with a dramatic flair.
“We wanted something unique and special in this space, something none of the neighbors would have,” said Claudia.
The dramatic veined Cambria countertops continue upward into a backsplash behind three complimentary open shelves. These countertops provide visual texture and movement in the kitchen. The kitchen includes two larder cabinets for both the coffee bar and baking station. The kitchen is now functional and unique in design.
“When we design a new kitchen space, as designers, we are always looking for ways to balance interesting design elements with practical functionality,” Claudia said. “This kitchen’s new design is not only way more functional but is stunning in a way a piece of art can catch one’s attention.”
Decorative mullions with mirrored inserts sit atop dual sentinel pantries flanking the new refrigerator, while a 48″ dual fuel Wolf range replaced the island cooktop and double oven. The new microwave is cleverly hidden within the island, eliminating the cluttered counter and attention-grabbing wall of stainless steel from the previous space.
The family room was completely renovated, including a beautifully functional entertainment bar with the same combination of woods and stone as the kitchen and coffee bar. Mesh inserts instead of plain glass add visual texture while revealing pristine glassware. Handcrafted built-ins surround the fireplace.
The beautiful and efficient design created by designer Claudia transitioned directly to the installation team seamlessly, much like the basement project experience Chad and Karen enjoyed previously.
“We definitely will and have recommended Advance Design Studio to friends who are looking to embark on a project small or large,” Karen said.
“Everything that was designed and built exactly how we envisioned it, and we are really enjoying it to its full potential,” Karen said.
Our award-winning design team would love to create a beautiful, functional, and spacious place for you and your family. With our “Common Sense Remodeling” approach, the process of renovating your home has never been easier. Contact us today at 847-665-1711 or schedule an appointment.

A beautiful transitional design was created by removing the range and microwave and adding a cooktop, under counter oven and hood. The microwave was relocated and an under counter microwave was incorporated into the design. These appliances were moved to balance the design and create a perfect symmetry. Additionally the small appliances, coffee maker, blender and toaster were incorporated into the pantries to keep them hidden and the tops clean. The walls were removed to create a great room concept that not only makes the kitchen a larger area but also transmits an inviting design appeal.
The master bath room had walls removed to accommodate a large double vanity. Toilet and shower was relocated to recreate a better design flow.
Products used were Miralis matte shaker white cabinetry. An exotic jumbo marble was used on the island and quartz tops throughout to keep the clean look.
The Final results of a gorgeous kitchen and bath

Our clients in Tower Lakes, IL, needed more storage and functionality from their kitchen. They were primarily focused on finding the right combination of cabinets, shelves, and drawers that fit all their cookware, flatware, and appliances. They wanted a brighter, bigger space with a natural cooking flow and plenty of storage. Soffits and crown molding needed to be removed to make the kitchen feel larger. Redesign elements included: relocating the fridge, adding a baking station and coffee bar, and placing the microwave in the kitchen island.
Advance Design Studio’s Claudia Pop offered functional, creative, and unique solutions to the homeowners’ problems. Our clients wanted a unique kitchen that was not completely white, a balance of design and function. Claudia offered functional, creative, and unique solutions to Chad and Karen’s kitchen design challenges. The first thing to go was soffits. Today, most kitchens can benefit from the added height and space; removing soffits is nearly always step one. Steely gray-blue was the color of choice for a freshly unique look bringing a sophisticated-looking space to wrap around the fresh new kitchen. Cherry cabinetry in a true brown stain compliments the stormy accents with sharp contrasting white Cambria quartz top balancing out the space with a dramatic flair.
“We wanted something unique and special in this space, something none of the neighbors would have,” said Claudia.
The dramatic veined Cambria countertops continue upward into a backsplash behind three complimentary open shelves. These countertops provide visual texture and movement in the kitchen. The kitchen includes two larder cabinets for both the coffee bar and baking station. The kitchen is now functional and unique in design.
“When we design a new kitchen space, as designers, we are always looking for ways to balance interesting design elements with practical functionality,” Claudia said. “This kitchen’s new design is not only way more functional but is stunning in a way a piece of art can catch one’s attention.”
Decorative mullions with mirrored inserts sit atop dual sentinel pantries flanking the new refrigerator, while a 48″ dual fuel Wolf range replaced the island cooktop and double oven. The new microwave is cleverly hidden within the island, eliminating the cluttered counter and attention-grabbing wall of stainless steel from the previous space.
The family room was completely renovated, including a beautifully functional entertainment bar with the same combination of woods and stone as the kitchen and coffee bar. Mesh inserts instead of plain glass add visual texture while revealing pristine glassware. Handcrafted built-ins surround the fireplace.
The beautiful and efficient design created by designer Claudia transitioned directly to the installation team seamlessly, much like the basement project experience Chad and Karen enjoyed previously.
“We definitely will and have recommended Advance Design Studio to friends who are looking to embark on a project small or large,” Karen said.
“Everything that was designed and built exactly how we envisioned it, and we are really enjoying it to its full potential,” Karen said.
Our award-winning design team would love to create a beautiful, functional, and spacious place for you and your family. With our “Common Sense Remodeling” approach, the process of renovating your home has never been easier. Contact us today at 847-665-1711 or schedule an appointment.

An open-concept kitchen with large amounts of storage utilizing white cabinets, countertops, a built-in hutch, and kitchen island. The kitchen island comes with drawers, cabinets, shelves, a spot for the microwave (to avoid taking up counter space), and a seating area. Dark hardwood floors, an off-white subway tile backsplash, and stainless steel appliances and pendant lighting give contrast to the mostly white-colored room, giving it a bright, clean, and balanced look.
Project designed by Skokie renovation firm, Chi Renovation & Design. They serve the Chicagoland area, and it's surrounding suburbs, with an emphasis on the North Side and North Shore. You'll find their work from the Loop through Lincoln Park, Skokie, Evanston, Wilmette, and all of the way up to Lake Forest.
For more about Chi Renovation & Design, click here: https://www.chirenovation.com/
To learn more about this project, click here: https://www.chirenovation.com/portfolio/lake-bluff-kitchen/

This old tiny kitchen now boasts big space, ideal for a small family or a bigger gathering. It's main feature is the customized black metal frame that hangs from the ceiling providing support for two natural maple butcher block shevles, but also divides the two rooms. A downdraft vent compliments the functionality and aesthetic of this installation.
The kitchen counters encroach into the dining room, providing more under counter storage. The concept of a proportionately larger peninsula allows more working and entertaining surface. The weightiness of the counters was balanced by the wall of tall cabinets. These cabinets provide most of the kitchen storage and boast an appliance garage, deep pantry and a clever lemans system for the corner storage.
Design: Astro Design Centre, Ottawa Canada
Photos: Doublespace Photography

Stephani Buchman Photography
Kitchen - mid-sized transitional galley dark wood floor and brown floor kitchen idea in Other with shaker cabinets, gray cabinets, quartz countertops, white backsplash, ceramic backsplash, stainless steel appliances, an island, white countertops and an undermount sink
Kitchen - mid-sized transitional galley dark wood floor and brown floor kitchen idea in Other with shaker cabinets, gray cabinets, quartz countertops, white backsplash, ceramic backsplash, stainless steel appliances, an island, white countertops and an undermount sink

This old tiny kitchen now boasts big space, ideal for a small family or a bigger gathering. It's main feature is the customized black metal frame that hangs from the ceiling providing support for two natural maple butcher block shevles, but also divides the two rooms. A downdraft vent compliments the functionality and aesthetic of this installation.
The kitchen counters encroach into the dining room, providing more under counter storage. The concept of a proportionately larger peninsula allows more working and entertaining surface. The weightiness of the counters was balanced by the wall of tall cabinets. These cabinets provide most of the kitchen storage and boast an appliance garage, deep pantry and a clever lemans system for the corner storage.
Design: Astro Design Centre, Ottawa Canada
Photos: Doublespace Photography

Kitchen - small 1950s l-shaped light wood floor and brown floor kitchen idea in Vancouver with flat-panel cabinets, white cabinets, stainless steel appliances and an island

Sponsored
Sunbury, OH
J.Holderby - Renovations
Franklin County's Leading General Contractors - 2X Best of Houzz!

Inspiration for a small 1950s l-shaped light wood floor and brown floor kitchen remodel in Vancouver with flat-panel cabinets, white cabinets, stainless steel appliances and an island

Inspiration for a large transitional l-shaped light wood floor and brown floor kitchen remodel in Vancouver with an undermount sink, shaker cabinets, white cabinets, marble countertops, gray backsplash and an island

Mid-sized eclectic blue one-story stucco exterior home photo in Vancouver with a shingle roof

Inspiration for a small 1960s l-shaped light wood floor and brown floor kitchen remodel in Vancouver with flat-panel cabinets, white cabinets, stainless steel appliances and an island

This white kitchen is grounded by the dark espresso island. Carrara marble island with wine storage on the side create a beautiful contrast to the white cabinets with the silestone grey countertops and herringbone backsplash tile. This kithchen renovation included the removal of a load bearing wall to open it up and make it feel bright and airy.

The design concept balances a fine line between modern masculinity and feminine elegance. Mixing metals and materials were key to achieving a timeless aesthetic throughout the room.
Walnut butcher block table supported on a custom Brass leg frame.
Watermark Faucet
Brass Hardware
Downsview Hood
House Brand Cabinetry
Visual Comfort Lights
Monogram Appliances
Sink: Galley Worksattion
Beveled Herringbone Clay tiles
All above is supplied via Astro Design Centre
Design by Astro
Photo by JVL Photography
Ottawa, Ontario Canada

Example of a transitional kitchen design in Calgary with a farmhouse sink, shaker cabinets, blue cabinets, white backsplash, stainless steel appliances, an island and white countertops
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