Subzero & Wolf Professional Training Trip

It's been almost a month since our wonderful trip to the Subzero & Wolf Headquarters in Wisconsin.  At the facilities we spent two days fully immersed in the culture and products. Led by Subzero/Wolf experts, we explored the depth and breadth of the product lines, the up and coming changes, improvements, and additions to the appliances, and the company’s core values.  And to top it all off, we had the pleasure of interacting with their executive chefs during live cooking demonstrations in state of the art kitchens.

 I've taken some time to reflect upon the trip and wanted to create a blog post highlighting my take-away from the training trip.  Enjoy all the photos (especially of the delicious food)!

Quality & Commitment

From the start it was apparent that the good hospitality and overall friendliness wasn’t just a gimmick (although it may be true what they say about New Jerseyans vs. the rest of the country!).  It was a genuine reflection of the company philosophy and commitment to quality that Subzero & Wolf are so well known for.

Subzero & Wolf strive to guarantee their products for 20+ years.  20+ years is a bold statement for any company to make.  However, after touring their factories I can see why they are so confident in their products. 

No photos were allowed during the factory tour (keeping all their secrets very private for obvious reasons), but I can tell you from first hand experience the care taken to manufacture these appliances is truly top of the line.  Rigorous testing is done throughout the entire process both by computers and human hands.  The most interesting thing I learned was that Subzero & Wolf do 3x the amount of testing on their appliances as it takes to actually manufacture them.

Time Honored Family Business

Whether it's due to the economy or online shopping (hello, Amazon), it’s difficult for businesses (whether big or small) to survive.  It’s also very uncommon for large businesses like Subzero/Wolf to still be family owned since inception in 1945.  Jim Bakke (grandson of Subzero founder, Westye Bakke) still has a hand in all the products and innovations developed by Subzero/Wolf to this day.  Being a family owned business ourselves, the company history of Subzero/Wolf is both inspiring and impressive. 

To learn more about the company history, click here!
 

Innovation & Expertise

The Subzero brand is known for their patented technologies which create the perfect refrigeration environment.  The Wolf brand is known for top of the line, professional cooking appliances readily available for the home chef (more than just the symbolic "red knobs").  Now, with ever changing technology and trends it’s important for Subzero/Wolf to keep up with the times without sacrificing quality and functionality.  We spent a lot of time discussing how modern technology, such as inter-connectivity, is being incorporated into their own appliances. Seeing how the products work with devices such as phones and tablets was a look into the future of kitchen design and how we function in our homes. These advancements paired with the company’s years of expertise truly makes for a special product. 

*Pro Tip - Keep an eye out for the release of the Cove Dishwasher designed by Subzero/Wolf.  The next best thing in dish-washing experience!

Curated Environment

My favorite part of the Subzero/Wolf training trip had to be our time at the Barn at Harvest Haven.  Harvest Haven is a garden that was developed on the property of the Subzero/Wolf facilities.  Items from the garden were actually used for menu inspiration and meal planning during our visit.  We had the pleasure of watching professional chefs cook our lunch everyday with fresh and interesting ingredients, all while using top of the line appliances in a beautifully designed kitchen.  

The Barn itself is situated in front of the garden and is one of the most beautiful, warm, and welcoming spaces I’ve ever seen.  As a kitchen designer who loves to cook and grew up in a 1700s farm house, this is what dreams are made of!

Joel Chesebro is the corporate chef for Subzero/Wolf that explained the benefits of each appliance, offered cooking tips and tricks, and guided us through the beautiful garden.  Below is a great video explaining the story behind Harvest Haven.

Harvest Haven with Joel Chesebro

*Luckily we got to visit Wisconsin in July and got to see the garden in all it's glory!

We were also urged to cook our own breakfast every morning so we could experiment with all the different appliances.  From an induction cooktop to a traditional French top, I was able to experience first-hand different methods of cooking the same meal.  What more could we ask for?!

While the food and special treatment was fantastic, this training program isn’t just a smart marketing tactic to entice designers to specify their products.  Whether a seasoned designer or new to the industry, this was a valuable learning experience.

From the in-depth training sessions to interacting with fellow designers from all over the country, the lessons we learned here made me excited to incorporate new ideas and techniques into all of our kitchen designs.

*This is a non-sponsored blog post.  All thoughts are my own and the amazing food has not swayed my opinions in any way.

Before & After: The Contrasting Color Kitchen Remodel

Over the years we have designed and remodeled hundreds (if not, thousands) of kitchens.  Every client and kitchen are different, which makes for a very interesting job working as a kitchen designer! But every once in a while, a kitchen comes along that really makes you stop, think, and appreciate the beauty of transformation.  One of the most rewarding experiences is creating a space that puts a smile on the homeowner’s face every day.

This project is one of the ones that makes us smile.  This kitchen was long over due for an update.  The homeowners work hard every day and enjoy having a space to come home to cook in at the end of a long day.  Their existing kitchen was lacking in storage space, function, and aesthetics.  The space definitely didn’t stand up to the elegant and traditional style of the old Victorian home.  Most notably, the layout of the kitchen also felt disjointed with oddly placed windows and valuable space that wasn’t being used properly.  Working within an existing space can be challenging, but seeing this kitchen for the first time felt like a good opportunity to push the limits a bit with the layout in order to show the homeowner’s the potential of their space.

Anyone who cooks often knows how important a well-organized kitchen is.  Not only does it make your time in the space more enjoyable, but also more efficient.  When designing this kitchen with the homeowners, we largely focused on the placement of the cabinetry and their individual function in relation to one another.  Below are some of the key wants and needs incorporated into the new kitchen:

• Adequate Pantry Space with Functional Storage

The homeowners were used to having a pantry cabinet in their existing kitchen, so this was something they couldn’t sacrifice in the new design.

• Base Mixer Lift for Stand Mixer

For someone that bakes often, a Kitchenaid Stand Mixer is a must.  They are very heavy and can be difficult to store, so most people typically leave them on the counter (taking up valuable space).  The solution here was to dedicate a cabinet with a mixer lift and outlet inside the cabinet.  This way the mixer is easily accessible when needed and can be hidden when not in use.

• Area for Baking

A designated section for baking (not within the main working triangle of the kitchen), was important to the homeowner.  This area also includes the Base Mixer Lift and additional storage for baking sheets, mixing bowls, etc.

• Island with Storage

The existing island was more of a table/furniture piece that lacked closed storage.  In a smaller space, maximizing storage is typically at the top of the list.  A drawer cabinet and trash pullout were used to create the island, along with simple detailing and a contrasting color.

• Cabinet for Trash/Recycling/Composting

A trash/recycling pullout is a no-brainer in kitchen design, but the composting request is a new one gaining popularity.  We were able to find a pullout with 2 large bins (trash/recycling), and two small bins with lids (composting).  This was included in the island as mentioned above.

• Open Shelving/Glass Cabinets for Display

The original built in cabinetry in the kitchen had seen better days.  Typically, we’re all for salvaging original woodwork, but this was screaming for attention.  The homeowner requested a mix of open shelving and glass cabinetry for display of plates and miscellaneous pieces of importance to her.  This area also became a nice focal point of the space.

• Cabinetry/Crown Molding to the Ceiling

Taking advantage of the extra space above the existing cabinetry was important for these homeowners.  The open space was wasted space that could be used for additional wall cabinet storage.

• Storage for Spices

One of the most popular requests we receive, we incorporate a spice pullout (or two) into almost every kitchen.

• Plain & Fancy Cabinetry

Last, but not least! We actually received this client as a lead through Plain & Fancy’s website.  The homeowner had always dreamed of having Plain & Fancy cabinetry in her kitchen, and we were able to make that dream a reality!

To learn more about Plain & Fancy Custom Cabinetry - click here!

This project is a great example of how with a little creativity you can completely transform a kitchen within the existing space (without tearing down all the walls a-la Fixer Upper style!).  We hope you enjoy this kitchen as much as we do!           

Kitchen & Cabinetry Design by Robinwood Kitchens

Plain & Fancy Custom Cabinetry Provided by Robinwood Kitchens

General Contracting & Cabinet Installation Services Provided by McManus Builders (Madison, NJ)

Photography by Andrew Pitzer Photography

Cabinet Refacing 101: Our Process

Cabinet Refacing is a unique service that Robinwood Kitchens has specialized in for over 40 years.  We take great pride in offering our clients an alternative option to completely remodeling without compromising quality and aesthetics.  Our secret is using the best quality refacing materials available from Conestoga Wood Specialties and employing our own installers that have refaced thousands of kitchen cabinets over the years.

Since cabinet refacing is a something that many are unfamiliar with, below is our step by step guide to the process.

Step One: Design & Details

The scope of a cabinet refacing project can vary depending on what modifications or changes the homeowner would like to make.  The project can either be very simple and the cabinets are refaced “as is”, or it can be more complex and may involve modifying existing cabinetry or adding new cabinetry. All these details are discussed in the very beginning for a few important reasons.  Modifications or additional cabinetry will affect the overall cost of the project and these details need to be hashed out so we can order the material and new cabinetry properly.  Often times we provide our clients with drawings of the modifications or new cabinetry to approve prior to ordering.

During this phase we also select the new door style and finish for the cabinet refacing project.  We have many samples to select from in our showroom.  However, our supplier, Conestoga Wood, is a custom company so there are hundreds (if not, thousands) or door style/finish combinations available.  If the homeowner is looking for something that we may not have in the showroom, we order door samples for approval before finalizing all the details and ordering.

Step Two: D-Day

*Prior to starting the cabinet refacing project, it is important for the homeowners to clean out all cabinetry.  While the refacing process isn’t very messy, light sanding is still involved so it’s best to remove everything from the cabinetry while work is being performed.

 Demo Day for Cabinet Refacing is much less intrusive when compared to a complete remodel. Before we begin working, our installers protect the floors, countertops, and any other important areas of the kitchen.  The first step is to remove all the existing doors, drawer fronts, and moldings that are being replaced. 

If countertops are being replaced, they will also be removed at this time so a template for the new countertop can be completed.  Countertops typically take 7-10 days to be fabricated, installation can be expected towards the end of the project.

If the backsplash is being replaced, the removal of existing backsplash tile will occur during the demo phase.  The sheetrock will be patched in preparation for the new tile, and the tile installed after the countertop installation.

Step Three: Prep the Cabinets

To prep the cabinetry for the new refacing material the cabinets are cleaned with solution and lightly sanded.  This is done to ensure the new skins and veneer will adhere to the existing cabinetry.  Wood filler is also applied to the cabinetry frames as needed.

If new cabinetry is within the scope of work it will also be installed during this phase.

Step Four: Installation of Skins, Veneer, and Molding

This part of the process is the most time consuming and requires skill and patience from our experienced installers. This attention to detail results in a beautiful finished product.

Skins are an 1/8” finished end that we use for the sides of wall, base, and tall cabinets, and also to finish the bottom of wall cabinets. Each one is cut to fit the individual cabinetry from a large 24” x 96” piece. They are attached to the cabinetry with construction adhesive and small pin nails.

Veneer is a thin material, approximately 1/32”, that we use for the front frames of all the cabinetry.  Robinwood prefers to use all wood products for our refacing work, which results in a long lasting and durable finish.  The veneer is wood-back and comes with a pressure sensitive adhesive coating.  Similar to the skins, veneer is cut to fit the individual cabinet frames from a large sheet of veneer.  Before applying the veneer, we coat the cabinetry with additional adhesive.  This adhesive in combination with the PSA wood-back veneer, ensures proper adhesion and performance.

The addition of crown, light rail, and base moldings will also bring the kitchen to the next level.

Step Five: Installation of Doors, Drawers, Hardware, and Accessories

Once the actual “refacing” part of the project is complete, we install the new doors, drawerfronts, and cabinet hardware.  Until this point the kitchen may not look like much, but this is when the space comes to life and vision becomes reality.

We install all new hinges with a soft closing feature, a nice addition that you will see in all new cabinetry today.  Another option many homeowners take advantage of is accessorizing their kitchen.  This may include new wood drawer boxes, a trash pullout, and cutlery dividers, etc.  All of these additional features enhance the functionality of the kitchen without having to completely replace your cabinetry.

To see more Before and Afters of our previous cabinet refacing photos, click through the gallery below!

Our Design Process

No matter how easy they make it look on HGTV, embarking on a remodel is a big undertaking.  What they don't always show on TV is all the time and hard-work that goes into planning for a remodel.  Before the work even starts there may be weeks to months (sometimes even a year!) of preparations leading up to demo-day.  This is definitely something to take into consideration with your project timeline.  The process varies among design firms, and it can also vary depending on the homeowner's decision making abilities.  At Robinwood we strive to make the process as stress-free as possible.  Below you can find a step-by-step guide about our design process and how we work one on one with all of our clients.

Step One: Complimentary Consultation

o   Initial In-Home Consultation

o   Discuss Design Ideas, Aesthetic, etc.

o   Budget

o   Kitchen Documentation (Measurements, Photos, etc.)

The first step in Robinwood Kitchens’ design process is to schedule an in-home consultation with our new prospective client.  At this meeting we take time to get to know you, your home, and how you use your kitchen or bathroom.  We’ll discuss your likes and dislikes with the current space, your wants and needs, and what kind of aesthetic you’re trying to achieve within the new space.  At this time, we will also document the existing kitchen with photos and measurements.  Typically, we like to schedule a follow up appointment in our showroom to review possible design options and pricing.

Appointments may be scheduled during a phone conversation, through email, or in person.  Some clients prefer to stop in the showroom to meet us prior to the in-home consultation.

Step Two: Design Review

o   Showroom Appointment to Review Possible Design Options

o   Designer/Homeowner Design Time Utilizing 2020 Drafting Software

A week to ten days after our initial consultation appointment we will meet in the showroom to review the proposed kitchen design and proposal.  We utilize 2020 Design software to create realistic representations of your future kitchen.  During this meeting we’re even able to make quick changes to show you different options within the design.  Robinwood Kitchens’ showroom has a wide variety of styles, finishes, and door styles on display.  We display approximately 8-10 vignettes and a full kitchen to show our clients the potential we have to create the kitchen you’ve always dreamed of.

At Robinwood Kitchens we do not charge for the initial consultation and proposal process.  However, we do not release any of our designs or drawings without a commitment from our clients.  We request a retainer (cost depending on size of project/complexity of design), that is applied to the first deposit during the contract phase.

Step Three: Refining the Design

o   Set of Drawings (Floor Plan, Elevations, Perspectives, Additional Details)

o   Door Sample Ordering

o   Changes to the Design Communicated via Email or in Person

After we receive the initial retainer for your project, we’ll provide you with a full set of drawings.  We also take orders for sample doors if there’s a specific finish/door style you are interested in.  Many of our customers like to take the drawings home and compare their existing kitchen to the proposed design to make sure all their wants and needs are included.  During this phase, we often exchange emails with questions and additional drawings of design options.  Our designers may also meet in the showroom on various occasions to review different design ideas and changes. 

This process is different for everyone and may take longer for some.  It varies greatly depending on the size of your kitchen, the timeline for your project, and how quickly you make decisions. The team at Robinwood values this time greatly because we want you to be 100% pleased with the final product.

Step Four: Contracts

o   Financial Contract Document

o   Cabinetry Specifications & Details

o   Final Set of Kitchen Plans

Once the design is finalized, the next step is to complete the contract documents.  At this time all the final decisions on cabinetry finish, door style, appliances, etc. are needed to move forward.  We discuss any last minute details for the design, the project timeline, and answer questions specific to your situation.  Once the contracts are complete the cabinet order is sent and you’re on your way to a brand new kitchen!

We also work directly with the homeowner’s contractor to ensure all goes smoothly.  We provide the contractor and/or installer with a detailed set of drawings and cabinet spec sheet with all important information, and we are always available to answer any questions.

Step Five: Cabinet Delivery, Installation, and Follow Up

o   Scheduling & Working with the Homeowner/Contractor

Robinwood Kitchens is the homeowner’s direct point of communication regarding all scheduling and delivery for the cabinetry.  We always make a point to be there when the cabinetry is delivered so we can check everything over.  At this time, we will also provide another set of installation drawings to be kept on site.  If Robinwood is installing the cabinetry we work directly with our experienced installers to make sure all goes according to plan.  During the installation phase we keep a running punch list of items that need to be addressed.  It’s our number one priority for the project to run smoothly and efficiently.

Over the past 40+ years we have developed an excellent reputation with the local community as a reputable source for design, contracting, and cabinetry.  We have solid relationships with the cabinet companies that we represent, so if any future issues were to arise we should be your first call.

The Baker's Kitchen: Design Ideas & Products

With the holidays right around the corner we thought it would be fun to feature some of our favorite design ideas and products to incorporate into the kitchen when working with our clients who love to bake.

1.      Cookbook Storage

Why not show off your love for baking by displaying your favorite cookbooks?  Not only does it add some personality to your kitchen, but it’s important to have those favorite recipes handy when baking during the holidays. 

Check out this Houzz article highlighting “mini kitchen libraries” – what a fun concept!

Photo by Godrich Interiors - Look for kitchen pictures

2.      Solutions for Recipe Discovery

For the homeowner who likes to keep their kitchen sleek and simple, there are a variety of products available to help better utilize a tablet in the kitchen for recipe searching.  Check out some of our favorite websites, apps, and products below:

Yummly

This is our favorite websites/apps for collecting and sharing favorite recipes.  Yummly is a multifaceted service that suggests recipes, allows you to save recipes from the web, and even provides a grocery list feature for easy shopping.  Based on your personal taste and dietary preferences, Yummly generates different recipe suggestions for you.   Then you can create different categories, or “collections”, to save your recipes for later.

Example of Rebecca's Profile on Yummly

William Sonoma Smart Tools Kitchen Stand for Tablet

This tablet stand is the perfect tool for many different reasons.  Not only can you support your tablet horizontally or vertically, but it’s also angled perfectly for viewing.  The non-slip silicone is an added bonus during the times when things get a little heated in the kitchen!

Prepara iPrep

This tablet holder is great for those lacking countertop space.  This compact kitchen tool easily folds flat to store away when not in use.

John Boos. & Co. Edge Grain Wood Cutting Board with Tablet Stand

While this may not be as high tech as some of the other options, this cutting board/tablet stand is multi-functional and beautiful. 

3.      Storage Solutions

With Houzz and Pinterest so prevalent in the kitchen design world, it’s so easy to discover ways to efficiently store ingredients and tools for cooking and baking.  Below are some of our favorite ideas:

• Spices

Pullout Spice cabinets are easily one of the most commonly requested accessories.  The pullout feature allows for quick and easy access while keeping clutter off the countertops.  Spice Drawers are also a great solution.

Kitchen by Robinwood Kitchens (Plain & Fancy Custom Cabinetry)

Photo by Gilday Renovations - More kitchen ideas

• Cutting Boards/Sheet Trays

Especially during the holiday season we can become inundated with cookie sheets and cutting boards continually piling up by the sink.  The best way to store these types of items is vertically in a base cabinet or deep wall cabinet (ex. Above a Wall Oven or Refrigerator).

Photo by Dura Supreme Cabinetry - Discover kitchen design ideas

• Appliance Lift

While the kitchen aid mixer has become a focal point in many kitchens, this solution keeps the mixer accessible without taking up valuable countertop space.  Technically this could work for other appliances as well.  The most important feature to include in the cabinet is an outlet!

Photo by Jessica Risko Smith Interior Design - Search kitchen design ideas

4.      Baking Station

Below are some fantastic ideas for baking stations incorporated into the kitchen space.  While some of these spaces could only be accomplished in our wildest dreams, some ideas could definitely be designed into our own spaces no matter what the size!

Popular Baking Station Features Include:

•  Open Shelving for Easily Accessible Ingredients
•  Lower Countertop Surface for Functionality (Rolling Dough, Making Pasta, etc.)
•  Stand Mixer Storage
•  Different Countertop Materials (Marble, Wood, etc.)

Photo by Raycross Interiors - Look for kitchen design inspiration

Photo by Paragon Kitchen & Bath Studio - Discover kitchen design ideas

Photo by Jessica Risko Smith Interior Design - Discover kitchen design inspiration

Photo by IS Architecture - Look for kitchen design inspiration

Cabinetry 101: Stock, Semi-Custom, and Custom Cabinetry

Selecting your kitchen cabinetry is probably one of the most important decisions you will make as you begin the kitchen remodeling process.  The style, color, finish, and function of the cabinetry are a reflection of your home and personality. Whether you choose a basic white shaker cabinet or a custom green antique finish – understanding the differences between Stock, Semi-Custom, and Custom Cabinetry is a must when shopping around.

Stock Cabinetry

Pros: Affordability, Short Lead Time

Cons: Limited Options, Limited Cabinet Sizes

Lead Time: 2-3 Weeks

*Lead Time may even be less depending on the location of the cabinet company in relation to the job site.

Stock Cabinetry is typically your least expensive type of cabinetry.  The majority of Stock cabinet companies offer a limited range of door styles, finishes, and cabinet sizes.  This allows the company to easily and quickly manufacture the cabinets resulting in a short lead time.  Many times the cabinetry is already assembled and ready to ship once an order is placed.  Typically, Stock cabinet companies will only offer full overlay style cabinetry.  This is something to take into consideration when shopping.  If you’re looking for inset cabinetry, you may need to search beyond Stock and Semi-Custom cabinetry.

by Robinwood Kitchens, 21st Century Stock Cabinetry

Semi-Custom Cabinetry

Pros: Affordability, Some Customization/Personalization

Cons: Limited Cabinet Styles/Finishes and Customization Options

(More Options than Stock cabinetry, Less Options than Custom cabinetry)

Lead Time: 4-6 Weeks

Semi-Custom cabinetry is a step above stock cabinetry in terms of cost and available options.  The majority of Semi-Custom cabinet companies offer 15-30 different finishes and door styles.  Due to the customer’s ability to mix and match, the lead time increases. In most cases Semi-Custom cabinetry is being made to order based on the design of your kitchen (vs. stock cabinetry that utilizes standard sizes).  Depending on the company, they may offer certain modifications/options to customize cabinet sizes (ex. Off standard widths and depths).  This is a major pro for Semi-custom cabinetry compared to stock cabinetry.  However, keep in mind that you still may not be able to replicate that really neat design you saved on Houzz or Pinterest with a Semi-Custom cabinet company.  The “semi” in Semi-Custom means exactly what it implies.

by Robinwood Kitchens, Hanssem Semi Custom Cabinetry

Custom Cabinetry

Pros: Unlimited Options, Complete Customization, Quality and Craftsmanship

Cons: Affordability, Lead Time

Lead Time: 8-12 Weeks

Custom cabinetry is the highest quality that you can use for your kitchen remodel.  A Custom cabinet company will typically offer hundreds of door style and finish combinations.  This allows for a truly personalized and custom experience when designing your kitchen. Beyond their standard offerings, many companies also offer a custom color service in which they can color match almost anything.  Unlike Stock and Semi-Custom, Custom cabinetry has very little limitations when it comes to size and types of cabinetry.  Typically, a Custom company will offer all types of cabinetry from full overlay to beaded inset.  The biggest drawback will be affordability and lead time depending on your budget and time frame.

by Robinwood Kitchens, Plain & Fancy Custom Cabinetry

Besides the type and quality of cabinetry that you decide to use for your remodel, the functionality and efficiency of the design is also crucial.  A really good kitchen designer can work with any type of cabinetry to make a functional and beautiful space.  Read our blog post on Plain & Fancy’s website discussing why you should work with a kitchen designer.

Below is a great resource from Plain & Fancy custom cabinetry, which quickly defines and visually explains the difference between Full Overlay, Inset, and Beaded Inset.  That’s another topic for another day!

Guest Blogging with Plain & Fancy Custom Cabinetry: Why it's Important to Work with a Kitchen Designer

We've been a dealer of Plain & Fancy custom cabinetry for over 20 years.  We've watched their business grow and expand over the years, so when they approached us few months ago about guest blogging on their website we were thrilled!  Plain & Fancy is a great company to work with and we're excited for the opportunity to further collaborate.

Rebecca wrote this article for Plain & Fancy on the importance of working with a kitchen designer.  Kitchen design, remodeling, and working with customers is our passion at Robinwood.  We find great satisfaction in seeing the joy on our clients' faces as they see their new kitchen come to life.  We're excited to share our opinion on why homeowners will greatly benefit from working with a kitchen designer

Below is the link to Plain & Fancy's website and blog.  Enjoy!

Plain & Fancy Blog: Why it's Important to Work with a Kitchen Designer

Before & After: Wonderful Walnut Kitchen Remodel

In a 2017 study conducted by Houzz featuring kitchen trends in the U.S., white cabinetry still remains the most popular among homeowners renovating their kitchens. In fact, white kitchens are twice as likely to appear in the homes of the Millennial generation when compared to the Baby Boomer generation.  Similarly, at Robinwood Kitchens we would estimate approximately 80-90% of kitchens that we’ve remodeled over the past five years have been in the “white” family.  White cabinetry is classic, makes any space feel more open, and coordinates with just about any style.  We certainly do love a beautiful, white kitchen – but we can’t help but get a little excited when a homeowner brave enough to think outside the box comes along!

This kitchen renovation is the perfect example of how to utilize beautiful, dark, walnut cabinetry to defy all perceptions that it would make a kitchen feel smaller or dark.  The combination of natural light from the new windows and light colored countertops, flooring, and backsplash compliments the walnut cabinetry and keeps the space feeling light, open, and airy.

Modifying the overall layout of the kitchen was also a priority in this remodel. Below are a few key changes we made to make this kitchen more functional.

1. Relocate the Cooking Area

Considering the island wasn’t overly large to begin with, having the cooktop in the island left little work/prep space and also made sitting at the island less desirable.  The homeowners envisioned an island that was more functional with storage space and seating for their young children.  The cooking area was relocated to the adjacent inside wall, which provided multiple opportunities for a focal point in the new kitchen. 

2. Opening up the Space

The existing footprint of the kitchen wasn’t small by any means, but due to the age of the home it was closed off from the rest of the house.  A non-load bearing wall was removed between the kitchen and adjacent family room, creating a wide-open space great for everyday family interactions and entertaining.  In addition to removing the wall, we also decided to eliminate the full wall of sliding doors in the existing kitchen.  While the natural light was a nice feature, once the aforementioned wall was removed there were two sliding glass doors out to the deck next to eachother.  We decided the best use of the wall in the kitchen was for a built-in bench seat, a new picture window, and to relocate the refrigerator.

3. Pantry Space

The existing kitchen included a built in pantry closet, which was typically found in homes of this era.  With the new walnut cabinetry this pantry definitely would have stuck out like a sore thumb.  However, for storage and functionality purposes a pantry cabinet was definitely on the wish list.  Our proposed solution was to install a shallow pantry with adjustable shelves matching the new cabinetry.  The new pantry definitely flows with the aesthetic of the new kitchen and the shallow depth allowed for more circulation around the island with seating.

We hope you enjoy the transformation with some before and after photos below!

Trend Report: Looking Back on Kitchen Design in 2016

With 2017 just around the corner, we wanted to reflect on the kitchen  design trends of 2016.  We’re looking forward to what 2017 has to offer the kitchen and bath industry!

Mixing Metals

From brass to copper and even rose gold, these statement pieces can be found everywhere from Restoration Hardware to Home Goods. It’s become very popular to use brass hardware as a pop of color on white and dark cabinetry.  It can also be used in contemporary and traditional designs, making the trend very versatile.  This aesthetic can be considered somewhat of a "throwback", so we're interested to see if this trend will stand the test of time and make it through 2017.

Top Knobs "Bit Pull" in Brushed Bronze

Photo by BABA Antique Wooden Floors - Search transitional kitchen design ideas

Photo by Finish Point Trim & Millwork, Inc - Search transitional kitchen pictures

Soft Shades of Cabinetry

While white kitchens will always be a favorite, in 2016 soft muted colored cabinetry make a breakthrough into kitchen design.  From charcoal and soft gray to muted blues and pale green.  Plain & Fancy Custom cabinetry released new enamel finishes that perfectly represent this new trend. Since 85-90% of the kitchens we remodel at Robinwood are of the white variety, we love any trend that introduces color into the space. We hope this one is here to stay!

From Left to Right: "White Sand", "Khaki", "Fawn", "Mystic Blue", "Mystic Green"

The Reclaimed Wood Effect

Using reclaimed and rustic wood is an instant way to add charm to any space, no matter what the age of the home.  The uptick in this trend may be due in part to the popularity of TV shows such as Fixer Upper (for those of you who aren’t familiar – a wholesome couple from Texas who remodels homes for clients often using reclaimed wood beams, ship lap, etc.).  We happen to love this trend, especially by incorporating wood countertops and shelves into a kitchen design.

Photo by Hanley Development - More farmhouse kitchen photos

Photo by Crown Point Cabinetry - Browse rustic kitchen photos

For the authentic look of reclaimed wood, we highly suggest visiting Real Antique Wood.  Located in Irvington, NJ, they travel throughout the tri-state area to demolish old barns and reclaim the wood to create new projects.  From tabletops to fireplace mantles, they do it all.  The best part is each piece is unique and has it’s own story!

http://www.realantiquewood.com/

Below are some photos of projects we've on worked with Real Antique Wood:

Photo by Robinwood Kitchens - Look for farmhouse kitchen pictures

Photo by Robinwood Kitchens - Look for traditional kitchen design inspiration

Marble-Like Quartz

Marble has always been a desirable material to utilize in kitchen design.  While homeowners love the look of marble, the maintenance can often be a turn off.  Many families we work with to remodel their kitchen are opting for man-made quartz countertops that mimic the look of marble.  In 2016 we saw a huge improvement in the realistic resemblance of marble from all quartz manufacturers.  Now homeowners can benefit from the easy maintenance characteristics of quartz, without having to sacrifice the marble aesthetic. 

Below are some of our favorite quartz colors:

Zodiaq "London Sky"

Caesarstone "Calacatta Nuvo"

Cambria "Ella"

Cambria "Torquay" 

Quartzmaster "Calacatta Borghini"

LG Viatera "Rococo"

Functional Design

With the continued success of websites like Houzz and Pinterest, homeowners requests for functional cabinet accessories have increased exponentially.  Wish lists for kitchen remodels have completely transformed to include specific information about spice cabinet organization, pot and pan storage, and pantry pullouts.  Homeowners are now very informed on the endless possibilities of cabinetry organization and often share their Houzz ideabooks with us to communicate exactly what they’re looking for.

See Previous Blog Post for more information:

Storage Solutions 101: Accessorizing Your Kitchen