---
title: "Awad + Koontz Architects Builders — Design-Build Firms | Houzz"
canonical_html_url: https://www.houzz.com/professionals/design-build-firms/awad-koontz-architects-builders-pfvwus-pf~562247107
markdown_url: https://www.houzz.com/md/professionals/pf~562247107.md
entity_type: LocalBusiness
business_name: "Awad + Koontz Architects Builders"
category: ["Design-Build Firms"]
image: https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/9d53b5f300046e27_2736-w400-h400-b0-p0--.jpg
address: "10 W 58th Street, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55419, United States"
latitude: 44.9026
longitude: -93.2886
phone: "(612) 243-0540"
website: http://www.awadandkoontz.com
rating: 5
review_count: 7
best_of_houzz_awards: 2
followers: 177
last_updated: 2026-09-02
---

# Awad + Koontz Architects Builders

Original Houzz profile: [Awad + Koontz Architects Builders](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/design-build-firms/awad-koontz-architects-builders-pfvwus-pf~562247107)

## Professional summary

- **Primary category:** Design-Build Firms
- **Location:** Minneapolis, MN
- **Serves:** Minneapolis, Bloomington, Eagan, Eden Prairie, Burnsville, Minnetonka, Edina, Minnetonka Mills, Saint Louis Park, Richfield, Roseville, Inver Grove Heights, Savage, Golden Valley, Hopkins, Saint Paul, Mendota Heights, Falcon Heights, Lauderdale, Lilydale, Medicine Lake, Mendota, Crystal Bay, Navarre
- **Houzz rating:** 5.0 out of 5 (7 reviews)
- **Best of Houzz:** 2 awards (2020–2021), for Design.

## About

### Houzz Badges

- Star Houzzer
- Houzz Influencer
- Recommended on Houzz
- 50,000 Ideabook Saves

Awad + Koontz.  Awad + Koontz Architects Builders, Mpls, MN. We design. We build. We're Ali + Jim. Home renovators + obsessive about This Old House.  awadandkoontz.com

### Services Provided

- Home Remodeling
- Custom Homes
- New Home Construction
- Kitchen Remodeling
- Home Additions
- Bathroom Remodeling
- Kitchen Design
- Home Extensions
- Bathroom Design
- Building Design
- Deck Building
- Outdoor Kitchen Construction
- House Plans
- 3D Rendering
- Floor Plans
- Garage Building
- Porch Design & Construction
- Historic Building Conservation
- Foundation Construction
- Lighting Installation
- Custom Cabinets

### Areas Served

- Minneapolis
- Bloomington
- Eagan
- Eden Prairie
- Burnsville
- Minnetonka
- Edina
- Minnetonka Mills
- Saint Louis Park
- Richfield
- Roseville
- Inver Grove Heights
- Savage
- Golden Valley
- Hopkins
- Saint Paul
- Mendota Heights
- Falcon Heights
- Lauderdale
- Lilydale
- Medicine Lake
- Mendota
- Crystal Bay
- Navarre

## Business Details

| Field | Value |
| --- | --- |
| Business Name | Awad + Koontz Architects Builders |
| Address | 10 W 58th Street, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55419, United States |
| Phone | (612) 243-0540 |
| Website | http://www.awadandkoontz.com |
| License Number | MN BC033713 |
| Followers on Houzz | 177 |

## Contact

- **Houzz profile:** [Awad + Koontz Architects Builders](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/design-build-firms/awad-koontz-architects-builders-pfvwus-pf~562247107)
- **Website:** http://www.awadandkoontz.com
- **Phone:** (612) 243-0540

## Credentials

**Certifications & Awards**
- AIA Home of the Month 2003, 2007 NAHB National Director, Alternate 2005 to presentNARICotY Award winner (numerous)BAMBATCROMA Award winner (numerous)

- **Best of Houzz:** 2 awards (2020–2021), for Design.

## Reviews

**Overall rating: 5.0 out of 5 — 7 reviews**

### All 7 reviews

**★★★★★ — Rachel B, June 2019**

> Jim and Ali were great to work with. They added just the perfect space to our home, and made it look like it had been there all along (since 1938 when the house was built). There were on time, and so great to work with, as were all their subs.

**★★★★★ — dredfunk, Jan. 2019**

> We recently finished a complete gut and remodel of our kitchen and family room in our turn of the century South Minneapolis home. All of the interior surfaces down to the studs, flooring, windows, exterior siding, in floor heating and high velocity AC were replaced or upgraded.
>
> Ali Awad and Jim Koontz walked us through the design process as we made many changes into construction. They had great suggestions and were always patient with us throughout. We were always kept up to date on the project progress with all of the subcontractor’s work being thoroughly reviewed by them. The subcontractors were top notch and we’ve received many compliments on the design and detail work from friends in the trades.
>
> Their pricing was fair and within their construction estimate. We had a fair amount of anxiety going into this, having dealt with other contractors in the past. However, they communicated regularly in person and by text/email, dealing into the many details throughout planning and construction setting us at ease.
>
> The end product exceeded our expectations. Thanks to Jim and Ali, we have a beautiful and cozy home as I write this in the family room next to the new fireplace on a subzero Minneapolis morning. We would use them again in a heartbeat and recommend them highly as professionals and individuals.

**★★★★★ — Leslie Jablonski, Jan. 2019**

> When we decided to remodel our 1919 South Minneapolis home, we knew exactly who would be perfect for the job. Awad + Koontz. We admired the work Jim and Ali had done in other old homes and we knew they would maintain the character of the house while giving it a much-needed update and expansion. We echo the words of praise that others have said - Jim and Ali are fabulous to work with as are their subcontractors. There were no surprises; everything was done on time; everyone respected our home and property; and there were no disappointments. About a year after we renovated our house, we were faced with an unexpected life-changing situation. Our son was paralyzed while playing in a high school hockey game. Suddenly, our home was not suited for a family member living with a disability. But Jim and Ali assured us that they would make sure we could bring our son home. And they did. Transforming an older home into an accessible one was no easy task, but Awad+Koontz nailed it. Accessibility experts told us that it couldn’t be done because the house was too old. Too many challenges. Not for Jim and Ali. They did their homework, made the necessary changes and blended adaptable equipment and needs seamlessly into our home. It’s simply stunning. We consider ourselves very fortunate to have worked with Jim and Ali and we never hesitate to recommend Awad + Koontz to others. They’re the best.

**★★★★★ — Jim and Barb Schmitt, Dec. 2018**

> We have used Awad+Koontz for renovations at our home for the past twenty years. During that time we have completed four significant projects including a total kitchen, dinning room and entry way remodel, an added full bath and a complete full bath remodel and a master bedroom. remodel. In all cases, Allie Awad has provided complete architectural plans with multiple revisions as we added ideas through the construction process, excellent scheduling, high quality components, professional craftsmen and timely clean up through out  the entire constriction periods  He and Jim have always attempted to minimize disruptions through out the tear out and renovation process.

**★★★★★ — Ann Bednarz, Dec. 2018**

> We worked with Awad + Koontz for a major home renovation (we renovated most of our first floor and built an entirely new second floor). We wanted to work with a design/build firm because we liked the idea of having an architect and a builder who are a team and collaborate well together. Our experience with Ali and Jim was fantastic. They created a great design, and they solved all the quirky issues that cropped up as part of remodeling a 90-year-old house. Awad + Koontz executed on their design on time and on budget. Throughout the process, Ali and Jim were constantly communicating and seeking feedback. We weren’t hit with surprise costs or unexpected delays. In addition, the crew and subcontractors were always respectful of our property and our neighbors. Ali and Jim are really good at what they do – and they’re great people.

**★★★★★ — Michael Hart, Oct. 2018**

> Our home is a classic 1920s "Foursquare" that we wanted to expand to add a master bedroom, bath, kitchen and lower level. We chose Awad + Koontz for their great reputation as well as their ability to seamlessly blend old and new. We wanted a more modern feel to our spaces while still keeping the details and style of the home's period feel. A+K masterfully integrated the existing home into the new addition and we couldn't be happier with how it turned out. Ali and Jim work exceptionally well together and we never experienced the headaches and nightmares you so often hear during home construction process. Four years later, there isn't a thing we'd change. And we'd recommend Awad + Koontz to anyone looking for a design/build firm that understands it's not just about building beautiful spaces, but managing everything throughout in a way that makes the ordeal as painless as possible.

**★★★★★ — Rubble Tile, July 2016**

> We have enjoyed a great partnership with Awad + Koontz for many years.  As we help homeowners select tile for their projects with Awad + Koontz, we can tell that they are well prepared, that they and Ali and Jim have a shared vision, that they've done the work of thinking things through carefully and understand the process and the desired outcome. Awad + Koontz works with subcontractors who are skilled craftsmen. Visiting their finished projects, we always see tasteful, interesting remodels that feel entirely integrated into the personality of the home.

## Selected projects

- [Urban Minneapolis Addition and Renovation](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/urban-minneapolis-addition-and-renovation-pj-vj~1134065)
  - Location: Not specified
  - Photos: 14
- [Cedar Lake Renovation](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/cedar-lake-renovation-pj-vj~110513)
  - Location: Not specified
  - Photos: 9
- [Shorewood Carriage House](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/shorewood-carriage-house-pj-vj~371324)
  - Location: Not specified
  - Photos: 4
  - Description: A new addition to this 1 1/2 story home that provided the homeowners with a 2 car garage, a screened breezeway and screened in living space on the second level of the garage/carriage house.
- [Linden Hill Farmhouse Addition](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/linden-hill-farmhouse-addition-pj-vj~410735)
  - Location: Not specified
  - Photos: 7
- [Carriage House and Pavilion](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/carriage-house-and-pavilion-pj-vj~410631)
  - Location: Saint Paul, MN
  - Photos: 5
  - Description: Garage replacement in St Paul. We took advantage of the raised yard to create a studio room above garage and a backyard covered pavilion
- [Basement remodel](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/basement-remodel-pj-vj~438564)
  - Location: twin Cities basement remodel, MN
  - Photos: 9
  - Description: Transformation of basement into family entertainment space, well lit wall-to-wall carpet, wet bar and eating counter with microwave, shelving for tropy collection, space for a ping pong table and at the other end the home theater to be viewed from comfortable sectional sofa. Off this room is also a separate exercise space.
- [Kenwood basement](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/kenwood-basement-pj-vj~345172)
  - Location: Not specified
  - Photos: 6
- [Lake Harriet Renovation](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/lake-harriet-renovation-pj-vj~435741)
  - Location: Not specified
  - Photos: 7
- [Dutch Colonial addition](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/dutch-colonial-addition-pj-vj~438769)
  - Location: Not specified
  - Photos: 5
- [Uptown Historic Addition](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/uptown-historic-addition-pj-vj~410757)
  - Location: Not specified
  - Photos: 14
- [Twin Cities Addition](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/twin-cities-addition-pj-vj~410595)
  - Location: Not specified
  - Photos: 7
- [Kitchen remodel](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/kitchen-remodel-pj-vj~389450)
  - Location: Not specified
  - Photos: 5
- [Mid Century Modern Rambler Refresh](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/mid-century-modern-rambler-refresh-pj-vj~383104)
  - Location: Saint Paul, MN
  - Photos: 13
  - Description: Reconfigure and open up main floor living spaces to better accommodate entertaining and to maximize natural light. New siding and windows to refresh exterior. Award winning project, featured in Star Tribune newspaper
- [South Minneapolis addition and remodel](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/south-minneapolis-addition-and-remodel-pj-vj~381342)
  - Location: Not specified
  - Photos: 8
- [Inefficient to efficient kitchen](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/inefficient-to-efficient-kitchen-pj-vj~374866)
  - Location: Not specified
  - Photos: 5
- [1920's Craftsman Bungalow Inspired design](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/1920-s-craftsman-bungalow-inspired-design-pj-vj~372779)
  - Location: Twin Cities, MN
  - Photos: 6
  - Description: 1920's Craftsman bungalow inspired design incorporates the past with contemporary styling to provide the family with a comfortable home with today's values in mind.
- [Woodbury Kitchen Renovation](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/woodbury-kitchen-renovation-pj-vj~1134034)
  - Location: Not specified
  - Photos: 3
- [Lake Calhoun Kitchen Renovation](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/lake-calhoun-kitchen-renovation-pj-vj~817682)
  - Location: Not specified
  - Photos: 7
  - Description: Renovation of existing space to create bright functional kitchen in 1920's era home.
- [Craftsman Kitchen Expansion](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/craftsman-kitchen-expansion-pj-vj~766972)
  - Location: Not specified
  - Photos: 8

[See all 19 projects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/design-build-firms/awad-koontz-architects-builders-pfvwus-pf~562247107)

## Ideabooks

- [Walnut Cabinets for Nate and Alicia](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/128457902/list/walnut-cabinets-for-nate-and-alicia) — 1 idea
- [painted wood ceilings for Amy and Larry](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/114134807/list/painted-wood-ceilings-for-amy-and-larry) — 6 ideas
- [Porch interior ideas for Mike and Jana](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/113880172/list/porch-interior-ideas-for-mike-and-jana) — 5 ideas
- [Fireplace fronts for Kris and Ed](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/111657202/list/fireplace-fronts-for-kris-and-ed) — 3 ideas
- [Ewald Cabin ideas](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/95812208/list/ewald-cabin-ideas) — 2 ideas
- [Kitchen ideas](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/5373891/list/kitchen-ideas) — 8 ideas
- [shower doors](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/68493606/list/shower-doors) — 3 ideas
- [Johnson Staircase](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/63140637/list/johnson-staircase) — 6 ideas
- [Dahl Stair Ideas](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/62972484/list/dahl-stair-ideas) — 3 ideas
- [A+K Kitchens for Yablonski's](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/55223334/list/a-k-kitchens-for-yablonski-s) — 22 ideas
- [Sabiston rail ideas 3.2.2015](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/45145108/list/sabiston-rail-ideas-3-2-2015) — 1 idea
- [Bode Exterior ideas](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/34188667/list/bode-exterior-ideas) — 6 ideas
- [fireplaces for Holly J](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/33825112/list/fireplaces-for-holly-j) — 4 ideas
- [stair rails for bern thomson](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/33077081/list/stair-rails-for-bern-thomson) — 5 ideas
- [metal washstands for teresa](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/32592541/list/metal-washstands-for-teresa) — 3 ideas
- [TV walls](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/32521206/list/tv-walls) — 2 ideas
- [Swanson Bathroom 2014](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/27914110/list/swanson-bathroom-2014) — 1 idea
- [spanish roofs](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/21786261/list/spanish-roofs) — 5 ideas
- [Gas fireplaces for Dahl](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/19355505/list/gas-fireplaces-for-dahl) — 12 ideas
- [Andy Pickenpack](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/5775006/list/andy-pickenpack) — 5 ideas

[See all 25 ideabooks](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/users/aliawad)

## Community Q&A

**Q: ceiling and cabinet height** *(in Photo Questions)*

does this kitchen have 9ft ceilings with 42” cabinets

A: Hi Julie. Ceilings were about 8'-6". Cabinets are custom and I do not recall how tall. We have a valance on top of the cabinets that is tall enough to receive a large cove that was carried throughout the main level. Thanks!

**Q: Can you share what color the shingles are?** *(in Photo Questions)*

As well as the brand?

A: Hi Anna
These were GAF Timberline shingles and the color was Weathered Wood. Thanks

**Q: What** *(in Photo Questions)*

Please tell me what type of lighting was used for under the counter ( brand name) ?  I'm having trouble finding something not to white or to yellow and this looks like it's a nice color.

A: Kichler, Xenon bulb undercabinet unit. We have since moved to using LED tape. Good Luck

**Q: Exterior window and door color** *(in Photo Questions)*

What is the color of the window and door trim? Assuming they're the same? Thanks much!

A: white dove- entire exterior

**Q: Size of subway tile?** *(in Photo Questions)*

Hello, your subway tile installation looks perfect.  Do you recall if this is 3 x 6 or 4 x 8? Thanks!

A: 3x6, very easy to come by. Good luck!

**Q: Crown** *(in Photo Questions)*

Please tell me crown specs
Where can I get this

A: Cove molding at cabinets and kitchen is \#CO-7 from A& A millwork in Minneapolis
http://www.aamillwork.com/A&A%20Millwork%20Profile%20Catalog%202015.pdf
All other trim is in-stock at Scherer Bros lumber. Thanks

---

*Source: Houzz professional profile. Reflects the profile as of 2026-09-02.*