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Tour an inspiring Quad Cities kitchen from Village Home Stores a custom Taj Mahal quartzite range hood.

<p>Friends, we wanted to share one last kitchen feature with you within the calendar year and then add another post about what is trending for kitchens and bath into 2026&hellip; then we got the green light to go photograph this kitchen in Bettendorf Iowa and realized that it could check both of those boxes! Let&rsquo;s have a look around this inspiring kitchen design we worked on with Aspen Homes of the Quad Cities.</p>
<h2>Quad Cities Kitchen Design That Captures 2026 Trends</h2>
<p><img alt="village home stores kitchen design with white oak island, accessible beige cabinets, and shade green built in area and taj mahal quartzite surfaces and range hood" src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/brandsource_member_blogs/OART1/OART1_taj-mahal-kitchen-quad-cities/OART1_village-home-stores-kitchen_01.png" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></p>
<p>There is so much to unpack in this incredible new home kitchen and a LOT of trends that deserve some attention if you are considering a kitchen design in the coming months or even years. Truth is, trends linger a lot longer in our industry because we are talking about permanent decisions and investments in your home, not just accessories or d&eacute;cor. Before we dive into the details of this Quad Cities kitchen design, know that any one of these concepts or materials can be something to inspire your own project with us. A new kitchen or bathroom is not something that you replace often, so trends in our industry come from very deliberate and savvy decision making.</p>
<p>These design and material choices are made between you, your team at Village Home Stores, and your contractor or builder if you are working with one. </p>
<h2>Accessible Beige Cabinetry and Strong Supporting Accents</h2>
<p>Still offering that main character energy in 2026 is a &ldquo;not-quite-white&rdquo; cabinet paint. That is the nickname we gave this category last year for new-neutral painted cabinet finishes in the white and off-white family. Our bestselling option in this realm by a huge margin is the Sherwin Williams Accessible Beige paint. We can now get this painted cabinet finish from most of our cabinet lines, and it is such a stylish main cabinet finish for your project. The perimeter cabinetry in this kitchen feature is from our Wynnbrooke Cabinetry line in their Denali door and that &ldquo;Accessible Beige&rdquo; paint. </p>
<p><img alt="accessible beige kitchen cabinets with taj mahal quartzite countertops and custom range hood" src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/brandsource_member_blogs/OART1/OART1_taj-mahal-kitchen-quad-cities/OART1_accessible-beige-kitchen-cabinets_02.png" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></p>
<p>Because it is not a stark white paint, you can safely pair it with bright white paint elsewhere and it leaves enough contrast that you end up with a result that serves intentional choice, not a mismatched mistake. If you are planning on including white wall paint, trim, or other elements then consider Accessible Beige or another not-quite-white option from our lineup.</p>
<h2>Oak Cabinetry </h2>
<p>Guess what wood species is still fully seated for the coming years? Oak! Oak woods have been trending for the past few years, and they are gaining nothing but momentum with even more stain options arriving from our cabinetry AND flooring vendors. While the trend began with just light airy natural stains, we are also designing with more medium and moody-medium stained oak finishes. We are even seeing some oak flooring and cabinet styles that could be considered &ldquo;golden&rdquo; oak. Is this a blast from the 80&rsquo;s and 90&rsquo;s past? Yes! Keep an eye out for oak stains to start to show up in your feeds that are warmer and more golden as well as medium-cool options that keep things light but showcase the grain of the wood. </p>
<p><img alt="light oak kitchen island in white oak sand with waterfall taj mahal countertops and green painted cabinets in the background" src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/brandsource_member_blogs/OART1/OART1_taj-mahal-kitchen-quad-cities/OART1_light-oak-kitchen-island_03.png" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></p>
<p>This featured kitchen keeps things bright and airy with Wynnbrooke&rsquo;s bestselling White Oak &ldquo;Sand&rdquo; stain in that same Denali door for the kitchen island cabinetry and back paneling. We love that this kitchen includes three cabinet finishes. The White Oak adds warmth to the space and pairs so well with the quartzite countertops that wrap around the island. </p>
<h2>Moody Painted Cabinet Accents </h2>
<p>You know we always must chime in this time of year and remind you that it is always acceptable and encouraged to include some color in your cabinetry. Yes, cabinets are a more permanent investment, but a painted cabinet finishes can truly read neutral once in place. We do still include a lot of painted blue finishes for kitchen and bath projects but this year we have seen more greens pop up in our projects. And a painted green cabinet can make an incredible statement!</p>
<p><img alt="shade grown green painted cabinetry in kitchen with wall to wall appliance garages" src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/brandsource_member_blogs/OART1/OART1_taj-mahal-kitchen-quad-cities/OART1_shade-grown-green-paint_04.png" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></p>
<p>All our cabinet lines at Village Home Stores have launched new painted green finish options and this new home kitchen includes one that is sure to prompt a lot of screenshots and saves. The &ldquo;Shade Grown&rdquo; painted green is a stunning cabinet finish and looks great paired with all metal hardware accents. Our favorite combination is a deep moody green cabinet and brass hardware shown here. This Bettendorf kitchen includes cabinet hardware in a variety of sizes from our Emtek line. Emtek&rsquo;s Select Transitional handles are paired with Paxton knobs on some of the doors all in the Satin Brass finish. </p>
<h2>Custom Stone Range Hood</h2>
<p>Even with that wall of bold green cabinetry, the main focal point of this kitchen is the statement made with stone. Taj Mahal Quartzite has been installed throughout the kitchen for the countertops, backsplash, waterfalling island top, and even the range hood! This stone installation is hypnotizing and breathtaking to see in person. </p>
<p><img alt="kitchen with taj mahal quartzite countertops, backsplash and custom range hood installed in a village home stores kitchen in the quad cities" src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/brandsource_member_blogs/OART1/OART1_taj-mahal-kitchen-quad-cities/OART1_taj-mahal-quartzite-kitchen_05.png" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></p>
<p>This Quartzite Taj Mahal material is mined from Brazil, and the natural patterns and layers of textures and tones tell quite a story. It is so easy to get lost in it just staring at any surface in this kitchen. The slabs for this project were selected locally at Epic Stone in Davenport, Iowa and we had Robertsons Manufacturing template, fabricate, and install this kitchen for Aspen Homes. The process to build a safe and secure statement hood was intense but we are so thankful to work with this fab shop to get this finished look. </p>
<p><img alt="taj mahal quartzite range hood installed in a village home stores kitchen in the quad cities fabricated by robertsons" src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/brandsource_member_blogs/OART1/OART1_taj-mahal-kitchen-quad-cities/OART1_quartzite-range-hood_06.png" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></p>
<h2>Tour This Kitchen in Under a Minute</h2>
<p>We can&rsquo;t share only photos of this amazing kitchen design you have to see it in more detail. Take a quiet quick tour of the space in under a minute here:</p>
<p><iframe class="dsg-block-1-youtube-video" title=“Accessible Beige and Taj Mahal Quartzite Kitchen” src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/gCvLzdSwAi0" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen></iframe></p>
<p>Pretty gorgeous right? So much inspiration packed into one kitchen. Don&rsquo;t worry, we will be sharing a bunch of content from this kitchen on all our social channels so you can save, share, and discuss with our team what grabs your attention. </p>
<h2>Lighting That Goes from Day to Night</h2>
<p>Anyone else remember entire magazine spreads and fashion storytelling that told us we would need to &ldquo;take a look from day to night&rdquo; in our adult life? That isn&rsquo;t exactly a relatable skill needed now that we are all settled into adulthood but reader, I think if that all the time when I visit our Village kitchens. Normally we are stopping by in the daytime, and sometimes I don&rsquo;t even have to turn on the &ldquo;big light&rdquo; or even the secondary lighting to capture the space. But the lighting selections still make a statement and add to the space whether they are off or on. That is why it&rsquo;s important to invest in great lighting that has great shape and texture for the whole look. </p>
<p><img alt="cement look Elliot visual comfort kitchen pendant lighting installed above a white oak kitchen island" src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/brandsource_member_blogs/OART1/OART1_taj-mahal-kitchen-quad-cities/OART1_cement-kitchen-pendants_07.png" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></p>
<p>Why choose your lighting for its shape and texture? It&rsquo;s just for lighting your room, right?... right? Real talk, it isn&rsquo;t. Yes, your kitchen island lighting will provide light for that island, but so will an entire layout of can lighting, perimeter undercabinet lighting, and surrounding spaces. Plus let&rsquo;s not forget that so much of the time spent in an open concept kitchen will include daylight hours when you may not need to turn on the lights if there is enough sunlight pouring in. This is the case for both our new home and remodel customers. Most complete remodels in kitchens include a plan for adding more overheard lighting in the form of recess cans, and any new home will already include this layer of lighting on your plan. So, choose decorative lighting that grabs your attention and truly adds to the overall design no matter if the light is off or on. This kitchen includes a pair of &ldquo;Elliot&rdquo; pendant lights from our Visual Comfort line, and they look great any time of day. See them features in this other Quad Cities kitchen <a href="https://www.villagehomestores.com/blog/thick-countertop-upgrade"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">we shared recently here</span></a>. </p>
<h2>Full Coverage Cabinetry</h2>
<p>Of course, there is a continued demand for cabinetry that extends all the way to the ceiling in the kitchen. It is important to mention this among our list of trends because even though it is assumed to be a desire for most of our clients, you do need to be conscious that your cabinet budget needs to reflect an allowance for this added storage space along the perimeter of your kitchen. You are essentially investing in another stacked layer of wall cabinetry and there will be some added cost to that choice. The great news is that this top region of cabinets is usually just cabinet boxes and doors to be purchased, we don&rsquo;t often add any other special inserts or drawer boxes up there because the area will only be accessed with a stepladder and not an everyday area to access. </p>
<p><img alt="kitchen cabinets in a quad cities home with accessible beige white oak sand and shade grown green painted cabinets shown" src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/brandsource_member_blogs/OART1/OART1_taj-mahal-kitchen-quad-cities/OART1_kitchen-cabinets-quad-cities_08.png" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></p>
<p>It is also important to remember to have a discussion with your designer at Village Home Stores about how you will marry the cabinets to the ceiling. You want to make sure that you have a plan in place for crown molding here and discuss it with whomever is installing your cabinetry and trim. Our remodeling customers also need to understand that many times we will suggest a staked molding option that can help forgive the ceiling dimensions that may change from one side of the wall to the other. Even in new homes, we can see ceiling heights be inconsistent once we reach the final install. </p>
<h2>Start Designing Your Own Kitchen With Us</h2>
<p>This kitchen doesn&rsquo;t include every 2026 trend we planned on spotlighting, but it sure does scratch a lot of those itches and emphasizes some general categories to consider when budgeting and planning for your own kitchen design with us. We sold the products and created renderings of the finished spaces for this family so they could see the vision, and we were still delighted at how it all turned out when we saw it in person. We couldn&rsquo;t believe how gorgeous this new home was when we stopped by and are so thankful we had a chance to share the kitchen with you here. We want to once again thank <a href="https://www.aspenwindmiller.com/"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Aspen Homes and Windmiller Design Build</span></a> for all their business over the years. While we can&rsquo;t have a chance to stop by all of them before moving day, we are so grateful we were able to showcase this one. We know it will inspire many others. Ready to start planning your own kitchen or bath with our team? If you are planning on building or remodeling in the Geneseo or Quad Cities area, your first step is to reach out for an appointment. You can call us at (309) 944-1344, use the webchat here on our site, or complete <a href="https://www.villagehomestores.com/kitchen-and-bath-cabinetry-and-design"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">this short form online</span></a> and a member of our team will be in touch.</p>
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Quad Cities Kitchen Design with Custom Taj Mahal Range Hood

All seven recipes from our annual staff soup cookoff including the winning easy crockpot cheesy jalapeno soup recipe.

<p>It is that time of year again. There is a chill in the air, and it&rsquo;s officially soup season! We just held the 2025 Village Home Stores Staff Soup Cookoff and once again it was one of the best smelling days our showroom has ever had. Seven staff members participated, and they each brought a worthy entry to welcome fall soup season. Voting is welcomed by any staff present during lunchtime that day, plus any lucky clients with appointments during those lunch hours. What&rsquo;s there to win? Well bragging rights of course (some of our team is pretty competitive and the trash-talking started weeks ago). Plus, the winner of the Village soup cookoff gets their name added among all past winners on a plaque in the Village breakroom we call the &ldquo;Golden Ladle&rdquo;. We also point to their winning recipe first in this recipe recap and our 2025 winner is&hellip;</p>
<p><img alt="Rachele with golden ladle in blue shirt in front of village logo sign" src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/brandsource_member_blogs/OART1/OART1_soup-cookoff-recipes-2025/OART1_village-soup-cookoff-winner_1.jpg" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></p>
<p>Rachele Neuleib again! This year Rachele went back-to-back with a soup cookoff victory! Oh wait&hellip; we just checked out notes and we mean back-to-back-to-back because she also tied for the win the year ahead of that. She snatched that crown this year with her delicious and super easy to make soup recipe. And now that our winner has adjusted her crown, we can all officially enter &ldquo;soup season&rdquo; in the Midwest. Here are this year&rsquo;s Village Home Stores Soup and Chili cookoff recipes beginning with our winner.</p>
<h2>2025 Soup Cookoff Winner: Rachele&rsquo;s Easy Cheesy Chicken Jalapeno Soup</h2>
<p><img alt="bowl of cheesy chicken jalapeno soup with bacon and cheese and jalapeno slices as garnish" src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/brandsource_member_blogs/OART1/OART1_soup-cookoff-recipes-2025/OART1_cheesy-chicken-jalapeno-soup_2.jpg" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></p>
<p><strong>INGREDIENTS:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>3 Frozen Chicken Breasts</li>
<li>6 slices of cooked bacon, chopped</li>
<li>4-5 fresh jalapenos, diced, seeds removed</li>
<li>4 cups chicken broth</li>
<li>1 (8 oz.) block of cream cheese, softened and cubed</li>
<li>1 cup heavy cream</li>
<li>2 cups shredded cheddar cheese</li>
<li><em>Optional</em>: sliced jalape&ntilde;os, shredded cheese, and crumbled bacon</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>DIRECTIONS:</strong></p>
<ol>
<li>Put all ingredients in a crockpot on high for 4 hours (8 hours on low).</li>
<li>Remove chicken and shred it.</li>
<li>Return chicken to crockpot and stir. That&rsquo;s it!</li>
</ol>
<h2>Lexy&rsquo;s Marry Me Chicken Soup</h2>
<p><img alt="bowl of marry me chicken soup with tortellini" src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/brandsource_member_blogs/OART1/OART1_soup-cookoff-recipes-2025/OART1_marry-me-chicken-soup_3.jpg" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></p>
<p><strong>INGREDIENTS:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>2 large carrots</li>
<li>2 ribs of celery</li>
<li>1 small yellow onion, chopped</li>
<li>1 (8 oz.) jar of sun-dried tomatoes</li>
<li>Kinders Butter &amp; Garlic Seasoning (to taste)</li>
<li>As much minced garlic as your heart wants</li>
<li>4 Tbsp. tomato paste</li>
<li>8 cups chicken broth</li>
<li>2 lbs. pre-cooked, pre-shredded chicken</li>
<li>1 tsp. salt</li>
<li>2 tsp. black pepper</li>
<li>2 tsp. smoked paprika</li>
<li>2 tsp. Italian seasoning</li>
<li>1 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes (optional)</li>
<li>3 large handfuls of fresh spinach</li>
<li>1 cup heavy whipping cream</li>
<li>1 (20 oz.) package of cheese tortellini</li>
<li><em>Optional</em>: serve topped with more parmesan cheese</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>DIRECTIONS:</strong></p>
<ol>
<li>Dice the onion, carrots, and celery. In a large soup pot saute those diced veggies in some of the oil from the sun-dried tomatoes jar.</li>
<li>Season with Kinders Butter &amp; Garlic seasoning and toss in as much garlic as your heart wants.</li>
<li>Cook until fragrant.</li>
<li>Add tomato paste to pot and mix well.</li>
<li>Add chicken broth to the pot along with the shredded chicken.</li>
<li>Add salt, pepper, paprika, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (optional) and stir. Add in tomatoes from the jar of sun-dried tomatoes (just tomatoes, not remaining oil).</li>
<li>Bring pot up to a boil.</li>
<li>Once a boil starts, reduce heat back to medium and add in spinach (it will wilt as it cooks).</li>
<li>Stir in 1 cup of whipping cream and the package of tortellini as the spinach starts to reduce and make room in your pot.</li>
<li>Stir and cook until tortellini is cooked through and enjoy.</li>
</ol>
<h2>Elizabeth&rsquo;s Sheet Pan Roasted Butternut Squash Soup</h2>
<p><img alt="blue ceramic wide rim bowl with roasted butternut squash soup and crusty bread as garnish" src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/brandsource_member_blogs/OART1/OART1_soup-cookoff-recipes-2025/OART1_roasted-butternut-squash-soup_4.jpg" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></p>
<p><strong>INGREDIENTS:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>1 Medium butternut squash, cut down center with core seeds and pulp removed</li>
<li>&frac12; of a sweet onion, quartered</li>
<li>2 Cups cherry tomatoes (or romas quartered)</li>
<li>5-6 cloves garlic, peeled</li>
<li>5-6 large carrots, peeled and halved lengthwise</li>
<li>4 Cups vegetable stock</li>
<li>Olive Oil (to coat sheet pan veggies)</li>
<li>1-2 Tablespoons Herbs de Provence</li>
<li>Salt + Pepper (to taste)</li>
<li>Small carton heavy whipping cream</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>DIRECTIONS:</strong></p>
<ol>
<li>Wash and prepare your sheet pan veggies, peel the carrots, slice squash and remove pulp and seeds, etc. (This same recipe could be made with summertime squashes and also swapped out with roasted pumpkins in the fall. Use what is available and seasonal.)</li>
<li>Preheat your oven to 400 degrees.</li>
<li>Toss and coat each item with olive oil and season with salt and pepper before arranging them on a sheet pan also coated with a drizzle of olive oil.</li>
<li>Season the entire sheet pan of items with Herbs de Provence including the interior side of the squash before placing squash facedown onto the pan. (If your squash is a big boy, stab the back side of the skin a few times with a fork at the denser areas before roasting.)</li>
<li>Roast the pan of items for 40-45 minutes or until everything is fork tender.</li>
<li>Turn off oven and dump entire roasted pan of goodies into a Dutch oven or large stock pot.</li>
<li>You will need to scoop out the squash from its jacket and possibly cut or 1/2 your carrots to fit into your pot.</li>
<li>On a low setting, add stock and salt and pepper to taste, stirring occasionally as it all simmers for 10-15 minutes.</li>
<li>Carefully blend with an immersion / hand blender until smooth. Near the time of serving, add your cream and stir.</li>
<li><em>Optional</em>: Serve with crusty bread or roast the seeds from squash you used for a crunchy topping. Make a batch of this ahead of camping and reheat to be enjoyed in a mug around the campfire.</li>
</ol>
<h2>Abby&rsquo;s Broccoli Cheddar Soup</h2>
<p><img alt="black bowl with broccoli cheddar soup garnished with bread and bacon" src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/brandsource_member_blogs/OART1/OART1_soup-cookoff-recipes-2025/OART1_broccoli-cheddar-soup_5.jpg" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></p>
<p><strong>INGREDIENTS:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>6 strips bacon, cut into pieces</li>
<li>3 Tbsp. unsalted butter</li>
<li>1 yellow onion, diced</li>
<li>3 cloves of garlic, crushed and minced</li>
<li>&frac12; cup flour</li>
<li>4 cups of chicken broth (or bullion with water)</li>
<li>1 cup whole milk</li>
<li>1 cup heavy cream</li>
<li>&frac12; tsp. kosher salt</li>
<li>&frac14; tsp. ground nutmeg</li>
<li>&frac14; tsp. cayenne pepper</li>
<li>Ground black pepper (to taste)</li>
<li>3 cups broccoli florets, rough chopped</li>
<li>1 cup shredded carrots</li>
<li>4 oz. shredded sharp cheddar cheese</li>
<li>4 ox shredded sharp white cheddar cheese</li>
<li><em>Optional</em>: serve topped with more shredded cheese and crusty bread</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>DIRECTIONS:</strong></p>
<ol>
<li>Dice the onion, crush and mince the garlic, rough-chop the broccoli, and cut the uncooked bacon into small pieces.</li>
<li>In a large pot cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy.</li>
<li>Remove bacon and set aside on paper towel-lined plate.</li>
<li>Leaving bacon grease in the pot, add butter and diced onion and cook until softened (about 5 min).</li>
<li>Add in garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.</li>
<li>Sprinkle in flour an stir coating the onions and garlic.</li>
<li>Slowly pour in broth, stirring well and scraping the bottom to be sure nothing is scorching to the pan.</li>
<li>Reduce heat to medium-low and stir in the milk and heavy cream.</li>
<li>Add salt, nutmeg, cayenne, and pepper.</li>
<li>Stir in broccoli and carrots and simmer for 15 minutes to allow veggies to cook until tender.</li>
<li>Add shredded cheddar gradually while stirring until it is melted and smooth.</li>
<li>Simmer for 5-10 minutes before serving. Stir often.</li>
</ol>
<h2>Natasha&rsquo;s Creamy Garlic Chichen Gnocchi Soup</h2>
<p><img alt="bowl of creamy garlic gnocchi soup with cloth napkin and spoon on table" src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/brandsource_member_blogs/OART1/OART1_soup-cookoff-recipes-2025/OART1_creamy-garlic-chicken-gnocchi-soup_6.jpg" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></p>
<p><strong>INGREDIENTS:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>1 (16 oz) package of potato gnocchi</li>
<li>2 cups cooked and shredded chicken breast meat</li>
<li>2 Tbsp. unsalted butter</li>
<li>6-8 cloves of garlic, minced</li>
<li>4 Tbsp. flour</li>
<li>1 teaspoon black pepper</li>
<li>1 teaspoon garlic powder</li>
<li>1 teaspoon each: dried oregano, dried thyme, and dried parsley</li>
<li>2 teaspoons salt</li>
<li>5 cups chicken broth or stock</li>
<li>1 &frac12; cups heavy cream</li>
<li>2 cups of fresh spinach, chopped</li>
<li>1 cup grated parmesan cheese</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>DIRECTIONS:</strong></p>
<ol>
<li>In a Dutch oven pot over medium high heat add the butter and melt.</li>
<li>Add garlic and saute until fragrant.</li>
<li>Add flour and all dry seasonings and blend.</li>
<li>Add in chicken stock, stirring frequently.</li>
<li>Add heavy cream, spinach, shredded chicken, and gnocchi and stir well.</li>
<li>Let simmer for 10-12 minutes or until gnocchi is cooked through and starts to float to the top.</li>
<li>Before serving add parmesan cheese and simmer another 1-2 minutes.</li>
<li>Remove from heat and serve.</li>
</ol>
<h2>Alexis&rsquo; White Chicken Chili</h2>
<p><img alt="bowl of white chicken chili garnished with fritos scoops sour cream and shredded cheese" src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/brandsource_member_blogs/OART1/OART1_soup-cookoff-recipes-2025/OART1_white-chicken-chili_7.jpg" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></p>
<p><strong>INGREDIENTS:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>2 large chicken breasts, cooked and shredded</li>
<li>1 can black beans, drained and rinsed</li>
<li>1 can cannellini beans, drained</li>
<li>1 can great northern beans, drained</li>
<li>1 can garbanzo beans, drained</li>
<li>1 can Rotel</li>
<li>1 packet ranch seasoning</li>
<li>1 chili seasoning packet</li>
<li>24 oz chicken stock</li>
<li>8 oz. cream cheese</li>
<li>Salt + pepper to taste</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>DIRECTIONS: </strong></p>
<ol>
<li>Add cooked and shredded chicken breast to crockpot with all of the ingredients listed above and stir to combine.</li>
<li>Cook on low for 4 hours stirring occasionally.</li>
<li>Top with cheese, sour cream or other toppings.</li>
</ol>
<h2>Monica&rsquo;s Crock Pot Potato Soup</h2>
<p><img alt="blue bowl with crock pot potato soup and soup crackers in it" src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/brandsource_member_blogs/OART1/OART1_soup-cookoff-recipes-2025/OART1_crock-pot-potato-soup_8.jpg" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></p>
<p><strong>INGREDIENTS:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>32 ounces Chicken broth</li>
<li>1 can Cream of Chicken soup</li>
<li>8 ounce package shredded cheddar cheese</li>
<li>4.5 ounce bacon bits</li>
<li>32 ounce package frozen cubed potatoes</li>
<li>8oz Cream cheese</li>
<li>Salt and Pepper to taste</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>DIRECTIONS: </strong></p>
<ol>
<li>In a crock pot, mix chicken broth and cream of chicken soup.</li>
<li>Add potatoes, half cheddar cheese, and bacon bits.</li>
<li>Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours.</li>
<li>With an hour left, cut cream cheese into small pieces and add to soup.</li>
<li>Stir occasionally in the last hour to chop up the cream cheese.</li>
<li>10 minutes before serving, add the rest of the cheddar cheese and salt and pepper to taste.</li>
</ol>
<h2>Hungry for More Recipes?</h2>
<p>Soup is great any time of year but in Autumn&hellip; sigh, it is even better. Nothing beats being cozy with some comfort food and the amazing smells your home gets from preparing it. At Village we aim to help make your time spent at home the best it can be. <a href="https://www.villagehomestores.com/blog/soup-cookoff-recipes-2024"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Here is a link to last year&rsquo;s recipes</span></a> including Rachele&rsquo;s winning Mexican Street Corn Soup. If you are interested in finding even more staff-approved recipes from our past years, <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/vilghomestores/easy-recipes/"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">head here to our Pinterest page</span></a>. We share easy recipes plus past entries in our soup cookoffs and appetizer challenges.</p>
<p>Or if you're looking for this year's recipes, you can print them out&nbsp;<span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/brandsource_member_blogs/OART1/OART1_soup-cookoff-recipes-2025/fall-soup-recipes-2025.pdf">here!</a></span></p>
<p><img alt="women at work soup cookoff with sample bowls" src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/brandsource_member_blogs/OART1/OART1_soup-cookoff-recipes-2025/OART1_village-staff-soup-cookoff_9.jpg" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></p>
<p>Is your cooktop or oven not really ready for this holiday season? We can help with that. Head <a href="https://www.villagehomestores.com/catalog/cooking"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">here to our website</span></a> and have a look around at some of the appliance options you can grab for your own home. We offer competitive pricing and appliance delivery and installation from our own expert staff. Ready to &ldquo;cook up&rdquo; a deal on a new range, cooktop, or entire kitchen with Village? Just reach out! You can message us <a href="https://www.villagehomestores.com/contacts"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">right here</span></a> through our website or call us at (309) 944-1344 to start the process. You never need an appointment to come browse our appliance showroom at 105 S State in downtown Geneseo, Illinois.</p>

7 Recipes from Our 2025 Staff Soup Cookoff

New home kitchen design including painted white cabinets, a white oak island, and hidden walk in pantry used for home bar.

<p>We love a bright and airy kitchen design and this featured space is exactly that. We recently shared the <a href="https://www.villagehomestores.com/blog/primary-bathroom-and-laundry"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">primary bathroom suite with connected laundry room</span></a> here on the blog. Y&rsquo;all went nuts online for those spaces so we wanted to also give you a good look around the open concept kitchen in that same home because it is one of the most beautiful and functional new home layouts that we have delivered this year. </p>
<h2>Painted White and White Oak Kitchen Design</h2>
<p>Let&rsquo;s begin with the finishes in this open concept kitchen design for Hazelwood Homes. We used a combination of two cabinet finishes and cabinet brands. That seems to be a common thing with our featured kitchens this year doesn&rsquo;t it? Many of our recent projects have combined two cabinet lines from Village Home Stores. This is another perfect example of why you should work with a kitchen design center for your project. Our team can help find exactly the right styles and finishes for you. We can sort through your inspiration images and videos and translate them into something like this&hellip;</p>
<p><img alt="wide shot of open concept kitchen design by village home stores with great room and dining room nearby" src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/brandsource_member_blogs/OART1/OART1_white-and-white-oak-kitchen-with-hidden-bar/OART1_village-home-stores-kitchen_1.jpg" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></p>
<p>Because sometimes getting the exact right balance for finishes means pulling from our entire toolbox in the showroom. Honestly, we love it when we can deliver a finished vision like this for our remodel and new home customers. The main perimeter cabinetry in the kitchen is from our full-access Wynnbrooke Cabinety line. This is a frameless cabinet line which allows you full shelf space for the cabinet interiors and a wide selection of doors and finishes to choose from. This kitchen in Mineral, IL features the Denali door in a painted Frost finish. </p>
<p><img alt="white cabinet and white oak kitchen island design in new home" src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/brandsource_member_blogs/OART1/OART1_white-and-white-oak-kitchen-with-hidden-bar/OART1_white-and-light-oak-kitchen_2.jpg" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></p>
<p>The kitchen design includes a long main wall of cabinetry with the cooking center at the center. The return wall of the L-shape on the design is home to the refrigerator and pantry entrance. The kitchen island is designed and installed using our Dura Supreme Cabinetry line. This is the Bria Homestead door in a Quarter Sawn White Oak and Coriander stain.</p>
<p><img alt="images of inside and outside view of white oak kitchen island design with stainless microwave drawer and seating on back side" src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/brandsource_member_blogs/OART1/OART1_white-and-white-oak-kitchen-with-hidden-bar/OART1_white-oak-kitchen-island_3.jpg" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></p>
<p>The inside of the kitchen island that faces the kitchen includes the kitchen sink, dishwasher, pull-out wastebasket cabinet, and a KitchenAid microwave drawer unit. We love the fact that KitchenAid now offers this sleek solution for microwaves in our projects. Customers of all ages appreciate the ease of loading and unloading items and the look is great. </p>
<p><img alt="white cabinet kitchen design by village home stores with large island and clear glass pendant lights" src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/brandsource_member_blogs/OART1/OART1_white-and-white-oak-kitchen-with-hidden-bar/OART1_village-home-stores_4.jpg" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></p>
<p>The countertop surfaces in the kitchen and pantry area are from our MSI Q Quartz line. This marble look surface is the Calacatta Miragio design. Elements Naples series handle hardware in Satin Bronze is installed throughout. </p>
<h2>Take a Video Tour of the Kitchen Design</h2>
<p>This Frost White and White Oak kitchen design includes a hidden pantry bar and back door drop zone too. Take a quick video tour of the spaces by pressing play below.</p>
<p><iframe class="dsg-block-1-youtube-video" title=“Painted White and White Oak Kitchen Design Tour in New Home” src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/wNACZQkQ-Ds" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen></iframe></p>
<p>That pantry area is amazing right?!? Imagine having that versatile space just steps away from the kitchen and the option to leave the doors open or close it off from guests. </p>
<h2>Hidden Pantry as Home Bar Area</h2>
<p>Why would you want to have a hidden pantry layout in your kitchen? Well, the pantry part of that answer is obvious. More storage is always a good idea. But the hidden element of a walk-in pantry front allows you to give the illusion of a standard pantry as part of the kitchen layout&hellip; with a big secret behind the doors. And how you use that space is totally up to you. </p>
<p><img alt="collage of hidden kitchen bar area images including view of inside trimmed out and full bar width of wall behind the pantry doors" src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/brandsource_member_blogs/OART1/OART1_white-and-white-oak-kitchen-with-hidden-bar/OART1_hidden-kitchen-bar_5.jpg" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></p>
<p>In this home we included a stylish bar setup using our Koch Classic line of cabinetry in their Savannah door and a Black Paint. Shelving in the same White Oak Coriander stain was ordered to match the kitchen island outside of the pantry area. What we love about this design is that over the years (and even throughout each year) this space can be used in a number of ways. Need to keep trays of extra food or drinks within reach but off the counter? Use this long span of countertop. Want to stash away the birthday cake or gifts out of sight from someone? Use this area. Right now, it is set up as a bar area and coffee bar station and it looks amazing. </p>
<p><img alt=" vinyl plank flooring shown in kitchen and looking into walk in pantry area" src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/brandsource_member_blogs/OART1/OART1_white-and-white-oak-kitchen-with-hidden-bar/OART1_vinyl-plank-flooring_6.jpg" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></p>
<p>Open concept kitchen and great room layouts in new homes allow homeowners the chance to install one consistent flooring surface in many areas. This keeps the overall flow of a home smooth and makes cleanup so much easier. The kitchen, pantry, foyer, office, great room, laundry room, primary bedroom, mud room, hallways and other bathrooms all use the same floating laminate flooring surface. This is TimberCORE Sequoia from our Paramount Floors line. </p>
<h2>Maytag Kitchen Appliances</h2>
<p>This family chose an appliance suite for the kitchen that is ready to get to work for them and maintain dependable performance in the years to come. The island includes a KitchenAid microwave in a stainless steel and the remaining appliances are Maytag units. </p>
<p><img alt="maytag French door stainless steel refrigerator shown built into wall recess with cabinet above and pantry doors to right" src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/brandsource_member_blogs/OART1/OART1_white-and-white-oak-kitchen-with-hidden-bar/OART1_maytag-french-door-fridge_7.jpg" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></p>
<p>The refrigerator in this kitchen is a 36&rdquo; wide French door unit that has been recessed into the wall by the builder for a great flush look. Communicating with your kitchen designer and appliance vendor allows us to tighten up the cabinetry and trim around your fridge and give a very custom look. If you live in the country, like these homeowners do, you know that sometimes by the time you finally get home from a grocery run&hellip; your items are already losing their temperature quickly. That is why the Max Cool setting <a href="https://www.villagehomestores.com/product/maytag-36-in-250-cu-ft-fingerprint-resistant-stainless-steel-french-door-refrigerator-mrff4136rz-1501367"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">on this unit</span></a> can be so helpful. Once you load everything inside you can select this option and for the next 24 hours your fridge will drop that temperature to a low setting to get everything back to the proper levels. </p>
<p><img alt="kitchen range with decorative painted wood range hood cabinet above and stainless steel insert shown in inset image" src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/brandsource_member_blogs/OART1/OART1_white-and-white-oak-kitchen-with-hidden-bar/OART1_wood-range-hood-with-insert_8.jpg" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></p>
<p>The cooking zone of this design is a great setup. Plenty of landing space and storage on each side of the range and the kitchen sink just behind you. Above the cooktop we included a decorative wood range hood in the same painted Frost finish. If you look at the image above, you will see an image inset showing the underside of that range hood with the Broan 500 CFM stainless insert inside for ventilation. The Maytag gas range in this kitchen is the MVP of the meal prep. The gas cooktop includes a long oval 5th burner perfect for griddle pans and the oven below includes True Convection.</p>
<p><img alt="maytag gas range in stainless steel shown with door open and cast iron pan inside oven" src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/brandsource_member_blogs/OART1/OART1_white-and-white-oak-kitchen-with-hidden-bar/OART1_maytag-gas-range_9.jpg" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></p>
<p>What the heck does True Convection mean? Well, the short answer is consistent heat in the oven cavity so you can use every bit or rack space if needed. The long answer is true convection added a heating element WITH the convection fan at the back. This gives you consistent heat throughout keeping air moving top to bottom and side to side. That also means <a href="https://www.villagehomestores.com/product/maytag-30-fingerprint-resistant-stainless-steel-slide-in-gas-range-ms8800pz-1362805"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">this baby preheats FAST</span></a>! So, for Thanksgiving in a few weeks, this oven can be filled to capacity and the fan at the back will help keep air moving around it all. This unit also can use that heated fan at the back for easy-to-use Air Fry settings. </p>
<h2>Open Concept Kitchen Lighting</h2>
<p>We love an open concept kitchen plan. With everything in view, you need to be sure your lighting selections all vibe well together. This entire new home from Hazelwood includes a full lighting package from Village Home Stores. The dining room fixture is a stylish blend of black stained wood and a Matte Brass finish. This is the Finn 6-light chandelier from our&nbsp;Capital lighting line.</p>
<p><img alt="collage of images with open kitchen lighting including glass pendants above island and black and brass dining room light " src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/brandsource_member_blogs/OART1/OART1_white-and-white-oak-kitchen-with-hidden-bar/OART1_open-kitchen-lighting_10.jpg" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></p>
<p>The kitchen island pendants that were selected help to illuminate the space but keep things light and airy. A pair of cone glass pendants named Kate are from our Visual Comfort line. </p>
<p><img alt="glass kitchen pendant lights hanging above kitchen island in white painted kitchen" src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/brandsource_member_blogs/OART1/OART1_white-and-white-oak-kitchen-with-hidden-bar/OART1_glass-kitchen-lights_11.jpg" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></p>
<p>There is amazing lighting throughout this new home and because these clients took advantage of our new home bundle program, they were able to receive credit for about HALF of their lighting invoice! To learn more about this program <a href="https://www.villagehomestores.com/lighting"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">visit this page on our website</span></a> and connect with a member of our lighting team today. </p>
<h2>Mudroom off the Kitchen in New Home</h2>
<p>Just steps away from this centralized kitchen layout is the back door entrance for the household. Here we have included an extension of the kitchen cabinetry that looks great and keeps the home organized from clutter before it even enters the kitchen. The same White Frost paint is applied to cabinets from our Koch Cabinetry line in the Savannah door (same style as the pantry/bar area). Birch Almond-stained wooden tops have been custom ordered and installed for the counters and bench seat. There is a small landing space and a bench locker area in this room that are both featured in the video tour above. </p>
<p><img alt="mudroom bench area shown just off of kitchen design in new home" src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/brandsource_member_blogs/OART1/OART1_white-and-white-oak-kitchen-with-hidden-bar/OART1_mudroom-off-kitchen_12.jpg" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></p>
<p>Want to see more of this space and the kitchen around the corner? We posted a full album of photos from this home <a href="https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/frost-white-and-white-oak-kitchen-design-with-hidden-bar-pantry-pj-vj~7699333"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">here</span></a> on our Houzz portfolio. The selections and styling of this home all turned out so great, and we are thrilled for the family that gets to come home to these spaces every day.</p>
<h2>Make an Appointment for Your New Kitchen Design</h2>
<p>Are you ready to get started on your own dream kitchen design? The expert team at Village Home Stores is ready to get to work for you. Browse all of our cabinetry brands and complete a short form <a href="https://www.villagehomestores.com/kitchen-and-bath-cabinetry-and-design"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">here on our website</span></a> and a member of our design team will be in touch. If you are remodeling or building a home soon we are your regional experts in all of the departments that we offer. Cabinetry, countertops, lighting, appliances, flooring, wall surfaces, and window treatments. Shop them all from one convenient location with a team of experts we curate for your project needs. We can&rsquo;t wait to hear what you are working on and find out how Village can help. You can also call us at (309) 944-1344 or stop by and see us at our showroom at 105 S State Geneseo, IL 61254. Appointments are recommended.</p>
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White and White Oak Kitchen with Hidden Pantry Bar

White Oak and Black cabinet kitchen design in modern split-foyer home from BuiltQC. Cabinetry and hardware by Village Home Stores

<p>Check out this handsome open concept kitchen design in a modern split-foyer home from BuiltQC. This home is located on the Iowa side of the Quad Cities and is packed with amazing style and a great layout. Village Home Stores sourced the cabinetry and hardware for this new home, and we are excited to show you around this kitchen.</p>
<p><img alt="great room kitchen design with dark beam ceiling and white oak and black cabinet finishes" src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/brandsource_member_blogs/OART1/OART1_white-oak-wheat-and-black-kitchen/OART1_great-room-kitchen-design_1.png" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></p>
<p>The kitchen includes one main wall of cabinetry and a large island centered in front of it. The great room on the top level of the split-foyer is flooded with amazing natural light during the daytime.</p>
<p><img alt="builtqc kitchen design from Village Home Stores with main wall of cabinetry and large island with waterfall counters" src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/brandsource_member_blogs/OART1/OART1_white-oak-wheat-and-black-kitchen/OART1_builtqc-kitchen_2.jpg" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></p>
<h2>White Oak and Black Combination Finish Kitchen</h2>
<p>This kitchen is installed using our Koch Classic Cabinetry line in the flat-panel shaker style Savannah door and a combination of White oak Wheat and Black painted finishes. We love the warmth that this wood tone brings to the kitchen. The combination of finishes can lean Midcentury Modern, Minimalist, or even Modern depending on how it is styled.</p>
<p><img alt="view of kitchen cabinets from floor with black painted cabinets and white oak wheat-stained light wood cabinets" src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/brandsource_member_blogs/OART1/OART1_white-oak-wheat-and-black-kitchen/OART1_white-oak-wheat-stain_3.png" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></p>
<p>The hardware for the kitchen is also a combination of contrasting finishes. Jeffrey Alexander Gibson series handles are installed in a combination of Matte Black and Satin Bronze finishes. You can see in the image below that the Satin Bronze is on the black cabinetry, and Matte Black is installed on the White Oak Cabinets.</p>
<p><img alt="white oak and black cabinets with handle hardware in bronze and matte black" src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/brandsource_member_blogs/OART1/OART1_white-oak-wheat-and-black-kitchen/OART1_white-oak-and-black-cabinets_4.png" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></p>
<h2>Balancing Accent Finishes</h2>
<p>The Black cabinet accents are so well balanced in this design. Not only are they spaced out in a rhythm that is visually balanced, but the height on each end is symmetrical as well.</p>
<p><img alt="Koch cabinets in white oak wheat stain with black painted cabinet accents from Village Home Stores" src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/brandsource_member_blogs/OART1/OART1_white-oak-wheat-and-black-kitchen/OART1_koch-cabinets-village-home-stores_5.jpg" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></p>
<p>The tall Black accent cabinets bookend the main wall and there is an accent cabinet above the cooktop at the center of the wall. On the right end is a refrigerator surround design that includes a deep cabinet above the fridge and a tall end panel on the left side.</p>
<p><img alt="kitchen design with tall black wall oven cabinet fit for built in microwave at eye level" src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/brandsource_member_blogs/OART1/OART1_white-oak-wheat-and-black-kitchen/OART1_tall-microwave-cabinet_6.png" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></p>
<p>The left end is visually anchored with a tall built in wall oven cabinet fit with a microwave unit installed at eye level. We love how this builder paid extra attention to the cabinet moldings with the accent colors. The toekick and crown molding each transition to the contrasting finishes when the cabinets do. The finished look is precise, focused, and high-end.</p>
<h2>Take a Quick Video Tour</h2>
<p>Press play below to take a quick video tour of the kitchen design.</p>
<p><iframe class="dsg-block-1-youtube-video" title=“White Oak Wheat and Black Cabinet Quad Cities Kitchen Tour” src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/lOHgD2vqYqc" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen></iframe></p>
<p>Want to see more from this kitchen? We posted a full album of images <a href="https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/white-oak-and-black-split-foyer-modern-kitchen-pj-vj~7732975"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">here over on our Houzz portfolio online</span></a>. We also have more features from it posted across our social media pages. You can follow us on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/villagehomestores/"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Instagram here</span></a> or on <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@villagehomestores"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">TikTok here</span></a>. Want to learn more about the builder BuiltQC? <a href="https://www.builtqc.com/"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Check out their website here.</span></a></p>
<h2>Let&rsquo;s Get Started on Your Kitchen Design</h2>
<p><img alt="kitchen design with large base cabinet drawers shown open on each side of range" src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/brandsource_member_blogs/OART1/OART1_white-oak-wheat-and-black-kitchen/OART1_base-cabinet-drawers_7.png" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></p>
<p>Ready to step out of the research phase and enter the design phase with an expert team excited to get to work for you? The kitchen design team at Village Home Stores is ready to connect and chat with you about our products and process. No matter what size of a project you are dreaming up in the Quad Cities area, your first step is the same. Make an appointment with a designer at Village. You can use the chat feature right here on the blog or complete <a href="https://www.villagehomestores.com/kitchen-and-bath-cabinetry-and-design"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">this short form online</span></a> and a member of our team will be in touch. You can also call the showroom at (309) 944-1344 we are open M-F 9am-5pm and Saturdays from 9am-noon or by appointment. While we can allow clients to walk in and browse the showroom, kitchen and bath design appointments are recommended so you can be sure we have someone available to answer any questions you may have. We can&rsquo;t wait to meet you and hear about the project you are dreaming up.</p>
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Quad Cities Kitchen Fit with White Oak Wheat and Black Cabinets

Learn about the option to include a 3 inch thick countertop in your kitchen or bathroom design from Village Home Stores.

<p>We recently worked with Windmiller Design Build on their newest model home/office in Bettendorf, Iowa and WOW this home is stunning. We were so excited to be able to source the incredible lighting selections and quartz countertop surfaces for this Quad Cities home. The kitchen includes a thickness upgrade on the countertops that is worth noting and we wanted to answer a few questions for you about it here to help inspire your own projects with us.</p>
<h2>Calacatta Viraldi Quartz</h2>
<p><img alt="village home stores kitchen design with large island and thick quartz top with two cement look pendant lights and beamed ceiling in a model home built by windmiller design build" src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/brandsource_member_blogs/OART1/OART1_thick-countertop-upgrade/OART_village-home-stores-windmiller-model_1.jpg" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></p>
<p>Before we dive into the main detail this article is about, we don&rsquo;t want to miss out on an opportunity to showcase the Quartz surface selected for the kitchen because it deserves the spotlight. This is a Q Quartz engineered surface from our MSI line and the design is named Calacatta Viraldi. It has been expertly templated, fabricated, and installed by our friends from Surface Resource. Surface has been installing stone tops for Village Home Stores customers for decades and we are confident in the work they do for our customers.</p>
<p><img alt="photo of kitchen island top in calacatta viraldi design with 3&rdquo; thick mitered edges" src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/brandsource_member_blogs/OART1/OART1_thick-countertop-upgrade/OART_village-home-stores-windmiller-model_1.jpg" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></p>
<p>A neutral warm white background is highlighted with brown and green veining. Yes green! The green veining detail is a subtle element and more proof that greens can be neutral finish. This quartz would look amazing installed on a green painted cabinet or in a room that had a green wall color, but this space includes neither and it is still perfect. Stop in our showroom to see a sample of this color alongside the cabinet finish options in our sample center.</p>
<p><img alt="corner closeup of calcatta viraldi MSI q quartz countertops " src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/brandsource_member_blogs/OART1/OART1_thick-countertop-upgrade/OART_calacatta-viraldi_3.jpg" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></p>
<h2>Make an Impact Full-Height Backsplash and 3&rdquo; Thick Counters</h2>
<p>This Bettendorf, Iowa home includes Calacatta Viraldi quartz for the surfaces in the kitchen. On trend upgrades have been made like a full-height backsplash slab on the cooking wall and a 3 inch thick countertop upgrade. Both of these choices can make a big impact on a space. Selecting a full-height splash makes for a clean look and an easy-to-clean wall surface in place of tile and grout lines. The visual impact of an extra thick countertop is BIG especially in an open concept great room kitchen like this.</p>
<p><img alt="kitchen design in the quad cities with large island and 3 inch thick quartz countertops with two cement look pendants above" src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/brandsource_member_blogs/OART1/OART1_thick-countertop-upgrade/OART_kitchen-design-quad-cities_4.jpg" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></p>
<p>But did you notice that this kitchen doesn&rsquo;t have that 3&rdquo; thick edge everywhere? Chances are you didn&rsquo;t until we pointed it out. If you return to the very first image of this post, you will see that the thicker tops are only applied to the kitchen island. The impact of full-height splash on the cooking wall is the statement needed, not a thicker counter surface there. One of the great advantages of working with a trained kitchen design team is we can help balance your selections to make an impact where it matters.</p>
<h2>Wait, is The Entire Countertop 3&rdquo; Thick?</h2>
<p>But that&rsquo;s a big island top! Is the whole thing 3&rdquo; thick material? Nope! We asked our fabricator a few questions about this technique and he confirmed that the 3&rdquo; thickness is only applied around the perimeter of the countertop piece. The material itself comes in a maximum of a 3cm thickness, so this thicker upgraded look is achieved with a mitered edge fabrication and a color match adhesive at the edge/seam. Both surface edges and mitered edges are beveled to approximately 45 degrees. This allows the mitered edges to be &ldquo;folded&rdquo; over the edge at the seam. Once the color match adhesive is applied, finish work can be done to soften the edges and remove any sharpness.</p>
<p><img alt="closeup image of mitered edge thick quartz countertops in calacatta viraldi MSI q quartz " src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/brandsource_member_blogs/OART1/OART1_thick-countertop-upgrade/OART_mitered-thick-quartz-countertops_5.png" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></p>
<p>NOTE: The other fabrication method available for a thicker top is a &ldquo;laminated&rdquo; edge option. If you take a close look at the image above from our mitered edge example, you truly must strain your eye to find the seam location. With a &ldquo;laminated&rdquo; fabrication/installation option you will have a more noticeable seam. This is because the standard slab of countertop is stacked with an added edge perimeter below it. Think of this as sandwiched method using two distinct elements stacked together. For some designs and material patterns, this laminated method can still offer your space a big impact at a lower fabrication cost.</p>
<h2>Is More Material Required? What if my Stone Has a Pattern?</h2>
<p>As you can imagine, this approach to a thicker edge does look best when material patterns can help champion the illusion of a thick top. To achieve the best results, the island top and the mitered edges are all cut from the same slab of material. This means that the mitered edges all need to be able to be cut near the main surface top edges so that veining patterns can carry over and down the sides. All of this is carefully planned and plotted our at the fabrication shop with your material patterns in consideration.</p>
<p><img alt="kitchen with lighting and countertops from village home stores for windmiller design " src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/brandsource_member_blogs/OART1/OART1_thick-countertop-upgrade/OART_windmiller-design_6.png" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></p>
<p>Because this technique requires more material and skill, these thicker mitered edges do include an upcharge in price. Our design team will need to know what material you are considering to get you an accurate estimate for the upgrade cost. And not just anyone can successfully achieve this look for you. This is why it is so important to work with industry experts you can trust in your home. Surface Resource has worked with us for decades and we trust them to dedicate the time and attention needed for the stone investments in your home.</p>
<h2>Where Should You Upgrade to a Thicker Top?</h2>
<p>Because there is an added cost to this option, we know that it can&rsquo;t be done to every stone surface in your home. But for the right surface, this design detail can make a massive impact in your space. Especially if the contrast of your kitchen or bath cabinetry finish is high with the countertop material color. A bold, graphic thickness upgrade can stand out in a definite and deliberate way. The most common applications are kitchen island tops and powder or hall bathroom vanity tops. Check out this short video edit of the island tops from this Windmiller Design Build home:</p>
<p><iframe class="dsg-block-1-youtube-video" title=“Thick Countertops Close-Up” src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/mNLFYwzypoA" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen></iframe></p>
<p>Obviously, we don&rsquo;t recommend our customers invest in a thicker countertop in a space that isn&rsquo;t in need of the big impact it has. Bless your heart if you want to pay for this upgraded option in a hidden lower-level craft room of your home&hellip; just know that we may try and step in to talk you out of that expense. NOTE: engineered quartz is a fantastic choice for a craft or workbench space and we will not try and talk you out of that material selection, just maybe paying for the thicker edge in an unseen corner of your home.</p>
<h2>Request a Quote Today</h2>
<p>Our thanks to Nick at <a href="https://srtops.com/gallery/"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Surface Resource</span></a> for helping us answer some initial questions about this luxe upgrade available for our customers. We also want to thank <a href="https://www.aspenwindmiller.com/"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Aspen Windmiller Design Build</span></a> for their continued business and letting us stop by this gorgeous new Quad Cities home to share the finished kitchen with you. Ready to start your own kitchen or bath design project with us? We can&rsquo;t wait to hear what you are dreaming up. You can connect with our team here using the chat feature on our site or <a href="https://www.villagehomestores.com/kitchen-and-bath-cabinetry-and-design"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">complete this short project form</span></a> and a member of our team will be in touch.</p>
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Thick Quartz Counters Make a Big Impact

A look at the industry’s first removable washing machine agitator is now available on select Whirlpool washers from Village Home Stores.

<p>Not sure if you want a washing machine with an agitator or without one? How about the flexibility to change your mind after you purchase the washer? We have a new model on the Village Home Stores floor that lets you do that! Introducing the Whirlpool 2-in-1 Washer with the industry&rsquo;s first removable agitator! (hold for applause) No seriously, this isn&rsquo;t an April Fools joke that is a legit new feature that Whirlpool has invested a lot of time, funds, and research into. And now, that flexibility is available at a great price for your own home laundry room.</p>
<p><img alt="washing machine interior with agitator in place and with it removed" src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/blog_content_cases/OART1_2-in-1-washer_removable-agitator.jpg" title="Source Credit: Village Home Stores" width="700" /></p>
<h2>The Best of Both Worlds: A Removable Washer Agitator</h2>
<p>To quote the great Hannah Montana, it&rsquo;s the &ldquo;best of both worlds&rdquo; for a washing machine. Imagine the flexibility to wash your dirty jeans with a deep water wash and agitator, but also your delicates without them tangling around it. </p>
<p><iframe width="700" height="394" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/m2PIy6TOCY0" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe></p>
<p>Talk about an innovative feature that can be great for any household. But how hard is it to remove/install the agitator? Trust us, it is easier than you expect. You just squeeze, rotate, and lift. The directions are right on top for you. </p>
<p><img alt="washing machine interior with agitator in place and with it removed" src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/blog_content_cases/OART1_2-in-1-washer_1.jpg" title="Source Credit: Village Home Stores" width="700" /></p>
<p>You may have the same questions I asked in training: &ldquo;won&rsquo;t it come loose during a wash cycle?&rdquo; Nope! The &ldquo;squeeze&rdquo; step of the agitator placement involves a patented spring-loaded mechanism that holds it solidly in place. And we mean SOLID! Whirlpool shared with us a demo in the lab where they locked an agitator in place, then lifted the entire washer by the handle with a crane. It stayed locked in solid!</p>
<p><img alt="controls on the new Whirlpool 2 in 1 washing machine with removable agitator" src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/blog_content_cases/OART1_2-in-1-washer_controls.jpg" title="Source Credit: Village Home Stores" width="700" /></p>
<p>This washer also still includes many of the other great features we love from Whirlpool. It has a built-in water faucet, a slow-closing glass lid, and a Quick Wash cycle that lets you wash small, lightly soiled loads in around 30 minutes! Not only can you customize the capacity and wash type, you can also choose your own water levels for a load. There is an optional pre-soak feature that soaks your item for 30 minutes, then heads right into a wash cycle without you returning to start a new cycle. A Deep Water Wash option lets you customize the water level for your load. You can even add an Extra Rinse option that washes away any lingering soils or detergent.</p>
<p><img alt="Whirlpool 2-in-1 washer on white background" src="https://d6y5eqdcxq8w3.cloudfront.net/assets/blog/blog_content_cases/OART1_2-in-1-washer_WTW5057LW.jpg" title="Source Credit: Whirlpool Corporation" width="700" /></p>
<p>Learn more about the WTW5057 washer <a href="https://www.villagehomestores.com/product/whirlpool-47-cu-ft-white-top-load-washer-wtw5057lw-816719" target="_blank">here on our website</a>. At Village, we have a wide selection of laundry appliances and there are a lot of exciting features available right now. Our team will help you decide if a front load or top load laundry is right for your home. We can also help you select the right capacity and water level options for your household.</p>
<h2>Shop Local With Us For Your Home Laundry Needs</h2>
<p>Shop local with us for your laundry needs and don&rsquo;t forget that we service what we sell. We have our own award-winning appliance service technicians on hand if you need them.</p>
<p>Stop in to see us at our showroom in downtown Geneseo Monday through Friday 9 am&ndash;5 pm or on Saturday from 9 am&ndash;noon. We are located at 105 S State Geneseo, IL 61254. You can also call us at (309) 944-1344 or connect with us using the webchat feature in the lower corner of this blog post. You can shop all Village Home Stores laundry at <a href="https://www.villagehomestores.com/catalog/laundry" target="_blank">villagehomestores.com</a> Thank you for shopping local with us and helping to support our small business.</p>

NEW 2-in-1 Washer With Removable Agitator

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