Ken Rakes was the founder and visionary of Ideal Cabinets, which was founded in 1970 in Christiansburg, Virginia. Almost from its inception, Ideal Cabinets offered design, demo, construction, and installation of residential cabinetry (originally mostly all of the work was done by Ken.) It was in this very office in downtown Christiansburg that Ken presided over his business for 53 years.
After his passing in 2023, his office remained a sentimental space filled with decades of files, hand drawn kitchen plans, golf trophies, a prized fish mounted on the wall, and pictures of his grandchildren. His bride of 57 years, Virginia, continues to occupy the office next door. She was his partner in life and business. We loved Ken and all that he represented.
Ken was always sharply dressed, and there to give you an encouraging word. He was a steady leader, yet gentle with his employees and clients. He cared as much about the customer who came in with a random hinge seeking a match, as he did about a customer wanting a new kitchen. He loved his family and his staff, several of whom have spent decades at the company.
Through our stages of grief, we reached the decision to transform Ken’s office into a conference room. In this space, designers will meet with clients to present kitchen transformations; and staff will gather to celebrate birthdays, work anniversaries, and leadership meetings. How appropriate for these four walls to continue to emanate creativity, collaboration, and encouragement. This is one way we are turning our tears into cheers as we celebrate the memory of our visionary, leader, and friend, Ken Rakes. Stay tuned – more details as the transformation of this beautiful space continues!
