Artistic Kitchens is a family-owned kitchen and bath design company with a rich history spanning over seven decades. Our story began in 1948 when Walter Kevelin, an innovative Irish immigrant, founded Artistic Cabinets. With a vision to create exceptional kitchen and bath spaces, Walter built the company from the ground up to support his family.
Founder Walter Kevelin with his wife Lena, and their children Charlotte, Bruce, and Ivan
Original Artistic Cabinet Manufacturing Company building in Detroit, MI
Brothers Bruce Kevelin and Ivan Kevelin accepting the Chapter Growth Award from the Michigan State Chapter of the National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA)
Kristi Hodson and Ivan Kevelin with their first-place winning entry in the NKBA design competition
In 1969, Walter passed the torch to his two sons, Bruce and Ivan, who brought their engineering expertise gained from the automotive industry to the business. Together, they continued the tradition of excellence set by their father, expanding Artistic Cabinets’ reputation for quality craftsmanship and outstanding customer service.
In 2005, a new chapter began as Ivan’s granddaughter, Kristi Hodson, joined Artistic Kitchens while pursuing her studies in Art and Design at the University of Michigan. Kristi’s passion for creating beautiful and functional spaces resonated deeply with the family heritage. After graduating, she wholeheartedly dedicated herself to designing kitchens and bathrooms for her grandfather’s company.
Kristi’s commitment to the industry led her to explore new opportunities, and she spent a decade working for leading cabinet manufacturers, gaining invaluable experience in product development, trend spotting, and strategy.
In 2023, as Ivan retired, Kristi returned to Artistic Kitchens to assume the role of principal designer, continuing the family tradition started by her great-grandfather, Walter Kevelin, all those years ago. Her time away provided her with fresh perspectives and insights that she eagerly brings back to the company.
With 18 years of experience in the kitchen and bath industry, Kristi has honed her skills and deepened her understanding of design, functionality, and customer needs. Throughout her career, she worked closely with her grandfather, Ivan Kevelin, and his brother, Bruce Kevelin, absorbing their wisdom and mastering the intricacies of the business.