Glen Ellyn, IL (PRWEB) December 11, 2007 -- Three Chicago-area design firms recently won a 2007 ICON Gold Award: Glen Ellyn Homes, Drury Design Kitchen & Bath Studio and Reddington Designs.

Presented by the Northern Illinois Home Builders Association [NIHBA, the three ICON winners in the kitchen category worked together to complete a complicated project in 100 days.

quot;The ICON award honors builders and remodelers who excel in the new construction and remodeling industry," said Donna Renzi, NIHBA executive vice president. Founded in 1956, NIHBA counts over 450 builder, associate and affiliate members.

The winning design remodeled an outdated suburban home kitchen into a revitalized family living and home entertainment center. Challenges to overcome included: an awkward layout, inadequate storage, outdated appliances, a corner cooktop, small sink, dated design, tired color scheme, worn out cabinetry and an inefficient island on three dysfunctional levels.

Custom kitchen design solutions included-Significantly enlarged refrigeration and freezer space with twin Sub-Zero units Preserved and expanded existing pantry into a formal butler's pantry serving centerRelocated desk and integrated technology with a flat-screen fold-down television Expanded island to seat four and add storage.

Created a hearth focal point anchored by a Wolf range  Upsized sink with a large single farmhouse style bowl Installed Grabill custom kitchen cabinetry throughout, including appliance panels Added durably elegant efficiency in a mix of finishes and tones Congratulations to our peers who also won ICON Awards. NIHBA is raising the standards for high-quality residential remodeling and construction. We enjoyed this collaboration," said Randy Parker, principal, Glen Ellyn Homes and NIHBA member.