Tag Archives: Kitchen Design

Bartelt Wins Three Gold Remodeler of the Year Awards

On Friday, February 19, 2021, Bartelt took home three GOLD Remodeler of the Year (RotY) Awards. Our team was recognized for two projects in the Entire House Over $1,000,000 category and one project in the Residential Kitchen Over $150,000 category.

“We are very proud of this achievement,” said Rick Bartelt, owner. “These awards are the result of the dedication, expertise and creativity of our entire team – our designers, carpenters, electricians, production staff, industry partners and clients. We are truly fortunate to work with the best.”

The Remodeler of the Year Awards is an annual event hosted by NARI Milwaukee. It is an opportunity to honor the outstanding work its members have accomplished throughout the year.

Entire House Over $1,000,000

The homeowners loved their location and the scale of their home, but it didn’t function well and lacked character. Surrounded by historic homes, they wanted their home to be consistent with the feel of the neighborhood. Now, the home has architectural interest and is conducive to their lifestyle. It features stucco, natural stone, copper details, a custom walnut front door and flooring, and interior timber trusses. The expanded kitchen boasts quartzite tops, a walk-in pantry concealed by faux cabinetry and a hidden door, and ample storage. The basement has a modern aesthetic with a new bar and spa-like bathrooms.

Elm Grove Remodel

Elm Grove Kitchen Remodel

Entire House Over $1,000,000

The 1980s home was dated and didn’t complement the homeowner’s needs. He wanted to create a space that reflected his style and was more conducive to daily living and lake entertaining. The remodeled home now has finishes and details that highlight his modern-eclectic style and spaces that lend themselves to large groups. The home features two full kitchens, eight guest suites and a new private suite in the lower level for the homeowner. Unique light fixtures, marble and quartzite details, tile flooring, custom cabinetry, and a monochromatic color scheme offer function and a beautiful aesthetic.

Pewaukee Kitchen Remodel

Pewaukee Bathroom Remodel

Residential Kitchen Over $150,000

The homeowners’ kitchen was dated and cramped. They wanted a space that reflected their style and was more conducive to daily living and entertaining. With an expansion into a closet and the removal of a peninsula, the kitchen is now open and accommodates the family of six’s needs. It features a large knotty alder island, ample storage, high-end appliances, quartzite tops, antique pewter pendants, nickel fixtures and hardware, handcrafted subway tile, and furniture-style cabinetry with inset doors and drawers. The space is a nod to the home’s original charm while mixing in the homeowners’ style.

Wauwatosa Kitchen Remodel

An Island of a Different Color

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There is no denying the popularity of the white kitchen. And can you blame homeowners? It instantly brightens a space and offers a timeless look. But for some, a white kitchen can be a bit stark or sterile looking. Those individuals are looking for warmth and texture. That’s where a contrasting island comes to the rescue. White cabinetry with a painted or stained island can be the perfect pair to create a space that’s simple and bright yet warm and charming. It’s an opportunity to add interest and soften the formality of a space.

Contrast

Whether it’s subtle or striking, contrast is a key component to a well-balanced design. A different colored or textured island is the perfect opportunity to introduce contrast to a space, offering dimension and character.

Wauwatosa Kitchen Remodel

Personality

An island can be tailored to anyone’s taste. Show off your personality with your favorite color. Add texture with a wood top or natural stone. Change up the hardware. The options are endless to showcase your style.

Wauwatosa Kitchen Remodel

Focal Point

Using different colors or materials puts emphasis on the island, creating a focal point without using overly ornate or fussy details. It draws visitors’ attention to the center of the space and creates a hub for the kitchen.

Wauwatosa Kitchen Remodel

Furniture-Style

A customized island can really take on the role of a piece of furniture. Because kitchens are often open to other entertaining spaces, it can help the spaces flow better and be more visually appealing to have a furniture-style island.

Elm Grove Kitchen Remodel

Kitchen Zones

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You’ve probably heard of the kitchen “work triangle,” a concept that keeps three main work areas – the sink, the range and the refrigerator – in close proximity. Although this has been a mainstay in kitchen design, it often seems antiquated. A work triangle is efficient and still useful, but it was developed during a time when the primary activities in the kitchen were cooking and cleaning up.

The role and size of the kitchen have evolved over time, and the space often serves as the home’s hub for both everyday living and entertaining. Not to mention, there are many more appliances and fixtures used in modern kitchens. It can be more practical to think of the kitchen in terms of zones. We explore that idea here!

What Is a Zone?

Consider all the functions performed in the kitchen regularly – food storage, prep, cooking, baking, serving, eating, cleaning, coffee making, entertaining. This is a great way to begin identifying the zones that will work best for you. A zone keeps everything you need to perform a specific task together. The kitchen is truly one of the hardest working rooms in a home, so grouping appliances, fixtures, storage and prep areas according to their use maximizes space and offers convenience while keeping aesthetics in mind.

Pewaukee Lake Kitchen Remodel

Example Zones

The Prep Zone – Chopping, mixing, blending, peeling – ample counter space is the key to success in your prep area. It’s helpful if it’s near the refrigerator, pantry and other storage, ensuring easy access to ingredients, small appliances and utensils.
The Cooking Zone – This is a busy spot. It often features the range or cooktop, wall ovens and warming drawers. Ideally, it is adjacent to the prep zone, and it’s a bonus if it is near the dining space. Many homeowners opt to have ample storage for trays, cookware, spices, cutlery, utensils and pot holders.
The Clean Up Zone – This area typically includes the sink and dishwasher with garbage and cabinetry strategically placed nearby to streamline clean up and unloading. Cleaning up isn’t the most exciting kitchen function, so the more efficient the process the better.
The Kids Zone – If you have children, it can be helpful to plan the kitchen with them in mind. Create room for the kids to do homework or have an after-school snack. Easy access to kid-friendly glasses, plates and food gives them some independence. This zone allows for family time, but it also keeps them out of the working part of the kitchen.
The Guest Zone – This can take many forms. Perhaps, it’s as simple as adding an island with comfortable seating to delineate the prep zone from the “hang out” area. It could also be a beverage station with a refrigerator, bar sink, glass storage, ice maker and counter space for drink mixing. Some homes even have a small sitting room off of the kitchen.

Zone options are truly endless, so when planning a kitchen, we always make sure we have a clear understanding of how people live in their homes. Function always comes first in kitchen design.

Elm Grove Kitchen Remodel

Zone Staples

Counter space – Not only is a landing area essential from an efficiency standpoint, but it is also an important safety feature. Cooks should be able to quickly set down hot items without trekking through the entire kitchen.
Storage – Ample storage is a vital component in any zone. Drawers, dividers, roll-outs and appliance garages help keep everything within arm’s reach of where it is needed.
Proximity – Rarely does a zone operate independently. It’s important to think about the kitchen workflow, so you can keep certain areas adjacent to one another.

Texture | Adding Subtle Interest to Your Home

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We talk about it all the time – how can we create a space that is timeless yet intriguing? We are believers in creating simple spaces with subtle details, so a home can stand the test of time but also stand out. How can you create a unique space, a room that shows off your personality without falling into a fleeting trend or adding too many ornate elements? There are many ways, but today we’re focusing on a big one: texture.

What is Texture?

Texture doesn’t just refer to materials that are rough or bumpy. It takes many forms and can evoke different feelings. Organic or natural materials can create an intimate space while items with a smooth texture lend themselves to a sleeker look. Texture offers both a tactile and visual experience, and we often layer different textures to showcase an architectural detail, communicate a specific style, differentiate design elements, and add depth and dimension. It can elevate a design without overdoing it.

Pewaukee Lake Mudroom Remodel

What Is the Impact of Texture?

Texture serves many roles. It can add visual weight to a space, drawing attention to specific details – a vaulted ceiling, a fireplace wall, an arched opening, a built-in nook or window seat. In a monochromatic color scheme, texture is a tool to introduce subtle variation and interest. It can also add warmth and contrast to a space.

Elm Grove Kitchen Remodel

How Can You Use Texture?

There are endless ways to incorporate texture into your home. Painted brick, v-groove or shiplap add dimension to a monochromatic design without straying from the color scheme, keeping the space neutral and serene while adding interest. Natural stone, metals, and wood can balance a cooler palette. Wallpaper is a great option for an accent wall. You can also use juxtaposition to make elements “pop,” placing a rough surface near a smooth texture. Architectural details are another opportunity to add texture – crown molding, a tray ceiling, beams, wainscoting, paneled openings. However you decide to use texture in your home, it is important to remember the power of restraint. Implementing too many textures can become distracting or overwhelming.

Elm Grove Family Room Remodel

Bartelt Wins Two Gold Remodeler of the Year Awards

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On Friday, January 18, 2019, Bartelt took home two GOLD Remodeler of the Year (RotY) Awards. Our team was recognized in the Entire House $500,001 – $750,000 and Entire House $750,001 – $1,000,000 categories.

“We are incredibly proud of this achievement,” said Rick Bartelt, owner. “These awards are the result of the dedication and expertise of our entire team – our designers, carpenters, electricians, production staff, trade partners and clients. We are truly fortunate to work with the best!”

The Remodeler of the Year Awards is an annual event hosted by NARI Milwaukee. It is an opportunity to honor the outstanding work its members have accomplished throughout the year.

Entire House $500,001 – $750,000

The homeowners contemplated moving to find a home better suited for their family of six, but after years of searching, they realized that they did not want to leave their neighborhood. They decided to remodel their home to accommodate daily living and showcase their vintage style. An addition was built to expand the home to include a large kitchen, family room, mudroom, master suite and additional bedrooms. The home features details that complement both the existing character of the home and the homeowners’ style – brass fixtures and hardware, cased openings, built-in bookshelves, v-groove walls and a neutral color scheme.

Entire House $750,0001 – $1,000,000

The homeowners loved the location of this family lake home, but it lacked character and didn’t function well for their lifestyle. It was important that the remodeled rooms accommodated entertaining and took advantage of the lake views. Walls were removed on the first floor to create a better flow between entertaining spaces and new windows and a folding glass door showcase the scenic backdrop. The home also features a new kitchen, a lower level pub, a screen room off the dining room and a large deck. Natural textures and a light color scheme give the home a nautical feel.

Bartelt Barn Featured in a “Houzz Tour”

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Our custom barn is proving to be quite popular both online and locally. The latest feature is a “Houzz Tour” highlighting details about the entire project.

The timber frame barn features white board and batten siding, black windows, reclaimed pine, Douglas fir columns, a 73″ chandelier, nickel board walls, and other rustic details. It is the perfect complement to the 1870s farmhouse on the property.

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Check out other features on this project.

New This Week: 4 Fresh Farmhouse-Inspired Kitchens

Practical Comfort

Bartelt Kitchen Featured in “Kitchens That Shine”

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Colgate Kitchen Highlighted in MKE Lifestyle Magazine

Not only did the July 2018 issue of MKE Lifestyle magazine feature our design team, but it also showcased one of our beautiful kitchen projects on pages 80-81. We love the balanced mix of rustic and feminine details in the space!

Click on the photo to read the article!

Why is an Interior Designer an Important Part of Your Project?

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Choosing products and materials can be an overwhelming process, sometimes extending the project’s timeline or overreaching the budget if not done properly. An interior designer works with homeowners to choose items based on quality, function, price and style, helping you bring your design goals to life.

At Bartelt, our in-house interior designers serve many roles – creator, project coordinator, a friendly ear – to guide you each step of the way and make the remodeling process enjoyable. Why is it important to look to a professional interior designer for direction? Let’s examine!

They have a process.

Your interior designer has a proven process to guide you through your project and selections, keeping you organized and using tools to help you visualize and understand how everything fits together. They’ll ask the right questions to hone in on your style, and they’ll help you make decisions at the proper time in the project’s progression. The designer is there to coordinate all the moving parts and make sure details don’t get missed. There are a lot of steps between preliminary design ideas and the final space.

They keep you on track.

Your interior designer can help keep your project on time and on budget (they may even end up saving you money). Homeowners don’t always realize the incredible amount of decisions that need to be made. That’s where your designer is a huge asset. They help you sort through all the options – lighting, paint colors, tile, flooring, countertops (this list goes on!) – and ensure that your selections are cohesive and within your allowance, leaving less room for errors and unnecessary spending.

They’ll also hold you accountable to make decisions in a timely manner, so your project’s timeline doesn’t get derailed.

They bring a new perspective.

A fresh eye is important! It can be hard to step back and look at your home from a different perspective. You often get accustomed to the layout, color scheme and other details. An interior designer has a trained eye and can see the potential in your space and offer creative solutions that you may have never considered.

Beyond offering ideas you may have not examined, they can also share options you may not have known even existed. Continuing education is an important aspect of the designer’s job, and they have a great pulse on new materials, tools and methods.

They can bring you back down to Earth (if needed).

We all have big plans for our homes, and let’s face it – sometimes, we need a reality check. Your designer will help you set realistic goals and educate you on any design limitations. They can also help you practice restraint, or in other words, learn how to “edit.” What’s important to incorporate into the design? What isn’t necessary? Where can you take design risks? Where should you keep it simple? This will ensure your final space is practical while still showcasing your personality and unique style.

LAYERING | A Well-Lit Kitchen

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When making plans for that new kitchen, it’s important to think about how you’ll be using the space and where specific light sources will be needed. A well though out lighting plan has many layers to it. Let’s explore those layers to help you create a cohesive and functional kitchen.

A M B I E N T | Lights for Navigating

Recessed cans, chandeliers, wall sconces, flush mount fixtures, even natural light – ambient lighting is your foundation, a general “blanket” of light for your kitchen. It helps you navigate your space (without running into things), and it’s really the first step to your lighting plan, serving as the base for all other layers.

T A S K | Lights for Doing

Task lighting may arguably be the most important layer. It helps you complete specific jobs, like meal prep and cooking, in the kitchen. Under cabinet lights over the countertop, pendants above the island, lights at the range – it’s important to see what you’re doing especially when working with sharp knives and other potentially dangerous tools.

A C C E N T | Lights for Feeling

Accent lighting sets the tone for your kitchen, creating a warm and inviting space. It’s often known as the decorative layer. It can also be considered task lighting, but it demands a bit more attention – in-cabinet lights to display dishes or collectibles, beautiful pendants, and other fixtures to highlight a unique aspect of the space. They round off the room to make it feel complete, and with so many options, it’s a great opportunity to really show off your personality.

M O O D | Lights for Changing

Throughout the day, your lighting needs change. During the day, natural light is often sufficient, but as the day progresses you’ll need help from your fixtures to illuminate the space for cooking and cleaning. Entertaining? You’ll want to set the mood. That’s where dimmers come into play. Dimmers can be incorporated into all layers of lighting, so you can adjust the light for your specific needs. For instance, they’re a great option at night or in the early morning when you’re not quite ready for bright lights.

Now that you’re familiar with the various layers of light, it’s important to note that you don’t have to use separate fixtures for each layer. There’s often a lot of overlap.

Happy light planning!

Bartelt Kitchen in M Magazine

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Be sure to check out the November 2017 issue of M Magazine! One of our stunning kitchen remodels is featured on pages 72-75.

Click on the photo to read the article!