ABOUT US

Company History

Karl Knobel founded his company in 1933 after being told by his father, for whom he worked as a carpenter, that due to the depression, Karl would have to find work for himself.  Starting with a work ethic that demanded a quality job he would feel proud to have associated with his name, Karl forged ahead with the new enterprise.  After he returned from WW II, the business grew quickly and he was forced to move the operation from the family garage to its first showroom/office location.  As business continued to expand sons Peter and then Paul joined the firm.  As the firm transitioned from general contractor to kitchen and bath specialist, grandson Mark came aboard. The Wilmette Chamber of Commerce selected our firm as the "Wilmette Business of the Year" in 1996, and we were recognized twice more in 2008 for both excellence in design and commitment to our community. After more than 75 years of success on the North Shore, the work ethic of a quality job you are proud to have associated with your name still is the goal.  Knobel Kitchens & Baths is ready to serve with old-fashioned quality and brand new ideas for any room in your home.

Paul Knobel, Owner

Paul is an expert problem solver.  He views each job as an intricate puzzle that often requires the ability to think outside the box in order to find the solution to a problem of function or a way to add a custom touch to personalize a project.  With over 30 years of design experience and national certification as both a kitchen and bathroom design specialist, he is equally adept at working to a budget or designing a project with more of the upgrades we all secretly desire.  Paul has won several design awards, has had numerous projects published in trade journals, and has been a speaker at an international trade show.

Peter Knobel, Owner

Peter joined his father's business after receiving a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering at Purdue University and working in the industry for a year.  He was in the Army Reserves for six years. He attained national certification as both a kitchen and bathroom design specialist and has won several design awards from the industry's professional organization, the National Kitchen & Bath Association.  He has held several offices in the Chicago Midwest Chapter of the NKBA including that of president, and served on the national board of directors.  He was one of the founders of the New Life Food Co-Op and is active in two local chamber of commerce organizations.