• What was the client’s dream?

• They wanted a kitchen that stood out as the centerpiece of the home. It needed to immediately catch the eye, but it also needed to feel unique and memorable. They challenged us to create a space worthy of being the central gathering point for family and guests—one that people would instantly respond to.

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• What’s a major challenge you solved?

• This home had exceptionally tall ceilings and a wide, open footprint, which risked making the cabinetry feel visually lost. To avoid that, I designed a full-height stacked perimeter with glass-top doors that draw the eye upward and add architectural presence without overwhelming the room.
  
  I also balanced the scale with an oversized island and dramatic custom hood so the space feels cohesive, not cavernous. Integrating the built-in microwave oven and 48” range into one continuous cooking zone helps maximize workflow and keep the space uncluttered.

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• What’s your favorite thing about this kitchen?

• The contrast between the soft perimeter cabinetry and the deep, rich island and hood. It creates a stunning focal point while still feeling timeless. And the way the veined quartz ties everything together—from the warm brass lighting to the natural wood flooring—makes the kitchen feel both elevated and incredibly comfortable.
  
  It photographs beautifully, but more importantly, it lives beautifully.

• What’s a tip, trick, or trade secret you’d like to share?

• Design with the client’s day-to-day lifestyle in mind. It’s easy to focus on aesthetics, but the magic happens when beauty and function meet. Design around real movement patterns and keep everything in arm’s reach from where it’s actually needed: Spice Rack Pull-Outs on either side of the range, a Base Cleaning Pull-Out by the sink, and a Trash Pull-Out built into the island. These details may seem small, but they make an enormous difference in daily efficiency. When everything is positioned exactly where it will be used, the kitchen becomes intuitive, effortless, and a joy to cook in.

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• How did KraftMaid make it easy to complete this project?

• KraftMaid made the process seamless with consistently reliable quality, customizable options, and finish selections that were perfect for the client’s vision. The EverCore® door style delivered the elevated look we wanted, while the Cottage and Carbon finishes brought warmth and depth into the space.
  
  Their modification options also allowed me to tailor the cabinetry to the unique ceiling height and the oversized island, creating a balanced and cohesive design.

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• Any advice for next year’s contestants?

• Tell the story of your space. Highlight not just what you designed, but why you designed it that way. Judges connect with intention, functionality, and client transformation. Don’t be afraid to submit kitchens that feel personal, layered, and lived-in—those often impact the most. And above all, use lighting, angles, and staging to help your photos truly communicate your vision.