Customized IKEA Kitchen: Get the Look

IKEA is a common source for kitchen renovations, in part because it can be easily adapted and customized. Roy and Jen's New York home offers good ideas for personalizing an off-the-shelf kitchen. Their cabinets come from IKEA, but their custom shelving and semi-custom kitchen table tailor the space to their needs.

IKEA Kitchen Cabinets

IKEA: The kitchen cabinets are from the Akurum line (in high-gloss white) with Lansa handles. All IKEA kitchens start with the Akurum system, which can be customized according to your needs, and comes with a 25-year limited warranty.

Custom Wraparound Shelving

Bear Woodworking: As architects, Roy and Jen were able to design a customized storage "pod" in the center of their apartment. The walls of the pod are made from shelving (built by Brooklyn-based Bear Woodworking) that serves the kitchen, dining, and living areas.

Simple, Streamlined Appliances

Jenn-Air: Jen and Roy's appliances are basic built-in models from Jenn Air. An oven paired with an electric cooktop keeps the kitchen looking clean and streamlined, while the white appliances blend in seamlessly with the kitchen cabinets.

Industrial Table and Stools

Advance Tabco: The table is custom built from built from a restaurant supply store base and a butcher block top. For a similar base, check out online restaurant kitchen catalog Advance Tabco, or see this post.
Hardwood Lumber Company: The butcher block comes from the New York-based Hardwood Lumber Company. They sell several butcher block counters in ash, beech, oak, maple, cherry, and walnut (Jen and Roy's choice).
Mohawk Medical Mall: The stainless steel stools are a type of lab furniture that can be found through medical stores, industrial supply catalogs, or online stores like Amazon.com. This lab stool is $330 through Mohawk Medical Mall.

Other Relevant Resources

HomeClick.com: This online retailer is well-known for stocking a huge inventory of discounted designer items for kitchens and bathrooms. Look here for a large selection of sinks, slim dishwashers, and built-in appliances for small kitchens.
Restaurant Supply Stores: When you're looking for chef's quality at good value, it helps to check out restaurant supply stores. Many of them carry stainless steel counters, specialty faucets and taps, and industrial shelving that works well in a modern kitchen.
Industrial Supply Stores: Catalogs for industrial warehouses often have useful pieces for kitchens, including stools, cabinets, and shelving. Many suppliers (such as C&H, F&S, and Uline) sell directly to retail consumers.