Conservation, preservation, beauty and innovation are just a few of the qualities that builders are asked to look at when creating residential spaces. As the hub of today's busy existence, the kitchen is expected in many cases to serve as the prep, cook, dining and entertaining space, as well as homework and work-from-home headquarters. As the room that takes the strain and greatest amount of wear and tear, it is also one of the most loved spaces in a house. It's the place where memories and daily living occur; where the best conversations are held over the island or kitchen table, and much like the best-loved toy or Velveteen Rabbit in the story, the fur gets worn off from all of the use and playtime. When homeowners seek out a builder to create or remodel the most-loved room in their house, the charge is significant and comes with a long list of criteria.
The Lehigh Valley Builders Association (LVBA) is a non-profit trade organization representing active builders, developers and remodelers, as well as professionals, subcontractors and industry suppliers in Lehigh and Northampton counties; and the members know this challenge well. Each year, the association holds a competition to celebrate and acknowledge the skilled individuals who make their living making homes for others. In the recent 21st annual Awards for Professional Excellence, outstanding home projects in the area were recognized and awarded for creativity, workmanship and design. “With the current housing conditions, I was pleased with the number of entries—giving hope that the turnaround in the industry is near,” attested Chuck Hamilton of the LVBA. Going on to address industry trends, he confirms that energy efficiency and green building are significant leaders. “The second standout is the number of homes submitted that are designed around the flow of the house. The use of flow is important to establish livable space that is easily negotiated,” described Hamilton.
Economic strains, cost-careful homeowners and an ever-expanding interest in eco-friendly living are just a few factors that impact current industry standards. So, with the individual needs, desires, budgets and design constraints inherent to a client's wish list, regional builders have managed to design and construct some stunning spaces. Style reviewed all the entry files and chose our favorite kitchen projects to share with you.
