At Dovetail Designs, we’re fans of kitchen lighting that’s both functional and stylish– because a well-lit kitchen makes for an efficient workspace and creates an inviting atmosphere.
In 2010, when Jenny established her own showroom, it was important to her to offer a line of cabinetry that fit, both from a values perspective as well as a style perspective. Jenny was familiar with Plato Woodwork’s reputation as an established name in the space, offering quality cabinetry, exceptional customer service, and dedication to timeless products that will last a lifetime. Just like our business, Plato Woodwork is family-run, going on their 5th generation of cabinetmakers in Plato, Minnesota.
We are proud to represent Plato Woodwork, one of the premier custom cabinet companies in the United States, as an exclusive dealer. Fourteen years after establishing our partnership with them, they continue to offer new products that inspire us to create spaces that combine style with functionality. That’s why, when Plato releases a new product, we pay attention. Today we’re highlighting Plato Woodwork’s Hamilton door style, one that lends itself to a more transitional/contemporary look.
We love pairing the Hamilton door with a frameless box to create a cabinet that brings modern functionality to timeless style. Above all, we love the clean look it creates. Its easy-open styling makes the door style incredibly functional, while still remaining simple in its overall style.
If this is a look that you think would be a great addition to your space, let’s chat. In the meantime, learn more about our partnership with Plato Woodwork.
It’s satisfying to design a space that’s not only more stylish— but transforms the functionality of the space as well. The below kitchen in Burlington featured a galley kitchen with dated cabinetry and a configuration that didn’t allow for much mobility. We worked with our clients to install updated appliances, modern cabinetry, and create a workflow that, well, works!
Something we love about design is that it's constantly changing. We’ve all been in a home, building, or shop and have noticed design elements reminiscent of the 80s or 90s– whether it’s neon colors or tile countertops.
As kitchen designers, the push and pull between trendy and timeless design elements is a factor that comes up constantly. While there’s certainly nothing wrong with incorporating trendy elements into the kitchen, the danger of designing a space in line with a certain trend is that inevitably, the space will feel dated.
Here’s how Jenny maintains a balance of trendy and timeless design elements when working with clients:
1. Simplicity
When leaning towards classic or contemporary design, Jenny always makes sure to keep the core design of the kitchen simple. This simplicity serves as a canvas, allowing personal and trendy touches to stand out without overwhelming the space.
2. Adding Trendy Accents
As trends can be short-lived, Jenny incorporates them in ways that can be easily updated in the future. This might mean opting for statement lighting, bold cabinet handles, or a vibrant backsplash—elements that bring personality to the kitchen but can be changed without a complete overhaul.
3. Maximizing the Space’s Potential
While certain elements might be trendy, the most important part of kitchen design is to enhance the features that a specific space brings to the table.
Rather than forcing a trend into a space where it doesn't fit, Jenny likes to enhance the kitchen's unique features. This might mean playing up natural light, focusing on storage solutions, or choosing materials that reflect the clients and the rest of the home.
So, if you love a certain design trend, it doesn’t mean that you can’t incorporate it into your space, we just advise that you create a timeless canvas and add trendy touches that can be easily updated.
In a kitchen full of stone countertops, we love the warmth and variety that wood countertops can introduce to just about any space. But because they're much softer than the typical stone countertop and can dent or scratch easily, we don’t advise the placement of wood countertops just anywhere.
Below, we have 3 placement ideas from Randy, as well as some advice on the type of wood countertop to choose for your home.
Finished vs. Unfinished Countertops
Before purchasing a wood countertop, it’s important to know the difference between the two varieties available: finished and unfinished.
Just as you might think, finished wood countertops have been treated with a sealant that protects the wood from moisture, stains, and wear. Finished wood countertops are more durable, easier to maintain over time, and less susceptible to damage.
Unfinished wood countertops, on the other hand, aren’t protected by sealants. While this may better show off the wood's natural texture, it makes them more susceptible to damage from water, stains, and scratches. Unfinished countertops might be chosen for areas where style is prioritized over functionality, or where the countertop won't be exposed to heavy use.
Recommendations For Placement
1. In the kitchen, as an accent piece
Wood countertops help break up the monotony of stone on all of your kitchen’s surfaces. We’ve seen wood countertops used as a focal point in a specific area of your kitchen– particularly in lower-touch zones. Finished wood is recommended here to ensure longevity and resistance to typical kitchen activities.
2. In eating areas, not cooking areas
Wood countertops are perfect for eating areas, such as breakfast nooks or bar seating, because they’re still able to serve as a focal point without the risk of exposure to heat or sharp knives. Again, opting for a finished surface will help protect against spills and wear.
3. Outside of the kitchen
Beyond the kitchen, wood countertops can be great additions to other areas of your home, too. We’ve seen beautiful entryways or mudrooms featuring wood countertops, as well as surfaces in living or dining spaces that connect to the kitchen. Bathroom countertops are a common option as well!
We love the style and variety that wood countertops bring to the home so much that when it came time to replace the island countertop in our showroom, we opted for a finished wood countertop from Grothouse.
If you’re interested in incorporating a wood countertop into your kitchen design, we’d love to chat! Be sure to stop by our showroom or contact us directly to talk more.
We’ve all been in a kitchen where the cabinet style and placement just doesn’t make sense. In some cases, so much so that the functionality and flow of the space is drastically affected. To prevent this from happening in your space, we put together a kitchen cabinet style guide, where we’ll be covering 3 common types of cabinetry, and their pros and cons.
We all know that functionality in the kitchen is key to creating a space that's efficient for everyday use. However, designing a kitchen that’s uniquely yours is what makes a space special. In our opinion, personal style is all in the details.
There’s nothing better than finishing up a kitchen remodel after months of design consults, planning, and construction. But the best part of the remodeling process? The reveal. The following Northern Vermont kitchens were remodeled in the latter half of 2023, and we’re particularly thrilled with the results! From the team at Dovetail Designs, we wanted to share a few before & after photos from each project— you can see what a difference updated design can make to transform a space!
Style meets efficiency in this Charlotte Kitchen
With its mid-tone painted cabinetry, this Charlotte kitchen is the perfect blend of style and functionality. We added Quartz countertops and commercial appliances to elevate the style of the space while ensuring top-notch performance for years to come.
South Burlington Kitchen Transformation
This traditional South Burlington kitchen was upgraded to include soft gray painted cabinets and Quartz countertops that breathe new life into the space. We also included a Shaker style door to enhance its timeless charm.
As kitchen designers, we see firsthand which trends come and go– and which are here to stay. That’s why we’re constantly advocating for pieces and designs that will last for years, allowing your space to remain timeless regardless of what trend is “in.”
As Vermont kitchen designers, good lighting is extra important to us. After all, when winter days are gloomy and short, kitchen lighting that’s warm, welcoming, and most importantly, effective, creates a much-needed cozy interior.
When a couple in Shelburne decided it was time to give their kitchen a much-needed update, it featured dated cabinetry and appliances that didn’t allow for efficient use of their space. They connected with Jenny and Randy for a full redesign.
The heart of every home, the kitchen, is not just a place for cooking and eating. It's a space where memories are made, stories are shared, and traditions– especially those involving food– are passed down. The design of this space plays an important role in how we experience these moments.
Two of the most popular kitchen styles today are Traditional and Transitional. But what sets these two styles apart? Let's dive in and explore the differences between the two.
Choosing the right countertop surface for your kitchen is a decision that not only impacts aesthetics, but also affects your ability to function in said space.
To help you make an informed decision on the types of countertop surfaces out there, we've compiled a list of our offerings, highlighting the pros and cons of each.