KBB - May/June 2015 - 33

BALANCED BUDGET

"The results can be amazing," he added,"and
modifying kitchen cabinets this way can save a
homeowner 50 percent or more over the material and labor costs of purchasing and installing
new cabinets."
Lighting Layout. Thelen advises to never underestimate the effects of lighting, adding that
it can be a great way to create the mood and
atmosphere.
"Unique and appealing choices can be
found as closeouts or on clearance by checking
the inventory at retailers like Lightology, West Elm
and Restoration Hardware," he added.
The lighting plan in this kitchen highlighted
the transformed areas of this previously uninteresting space. Pendants hanging over the island with clear light bulbs made the space feel
more open and free ﬂowing. Recessed cans in
the ceiling added depth, and an eye-catching,
statement chandelier in the adjoining dining
space provides a fun element to the design.
Table Touch. One goal of the project was
to seamlessly connect the kitchen to the open
living room and dining space. To achieve this
without changing the home's structure, Thelen's
design team created a custom table measuring a slim 32 inches wide in the dining space
that matches the look and feel of the kitchen.
In addition, this custom creation was budget
conscious compared to other table options -

costing less to build than actually buy.
Artful Touches. Rather than spending time
and money ﬁnding the perfect art to complement
the kitchen, the homeowners commissioned artwork from Thelen. He added a distinctive bit of
charm by framing menus from local restaurants in
expensive-looking oak frames from Target to preserve special memories for the homeowners. He
covered a plain pantry door with a chalkboard
and magnet paint to keep the refrigerator free of
notes and clutter.
"Surprisingly, you can ﬁnd ways to give
space personality with little expense," said Thelen, adding that the couple never expected the
strong effect this would have on them and their
guests. "I love to incorporate a personal touch
that changes the look and feel." n
- By Tricia Warrick

sources
Design/Build: Linc Thelen, Linc Thelen Design;
Photographer: Jim Tschetter
Cabinets: Decora; Countertops: Super White
Quartzite; Dishwasher: Bosch; Flooring:
Stained Oak with a Custom Color Mix;
Hardware & Sconces: Restoration Hardware;
Pendants: Clark Pendant; Refrigerator:
Samsung; Window Shade: The Shade Store;
Wine Refrigerator: GE

Thelen's Successful Design Tips
Accommodating lifestyle changes and growing needs while at the same time debuting a
timeless, updated appearance requires attention to detail, not just dollars.
* A picture on a page may not be the right
ﬁt. Know the architecture.
* What's underneath ﬂoors and behind the
walls deﬁnes what can be done without
structurally altering the home.
* Make a line-item budget that includes
every expense to identify what items cost
the most and where to focus on budgetsaving efforts.

* An expert is needed to keep the project on
budget and vision without compromising
value or impact.
* Be creative; more than any budget, the
right touch changes a house into a home
to love and cherish.
* If you do want to splurge, ﬁnd one spot to
highlight.

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KBB - May/June 2015

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