Shingle style house overlooking the Hudson River. The project is nearly finished. Exterior painting is to commence soon.Niall Cain
Example of a large ornate three-story wood exterior home design in New York with a tile roof

As a builder of custom homes primarily on the Northshore of Chicago, Raugstad has been building custom homes, and homes on speculation for three generations. Our commitment is always to the client. From commencement of the project all the way through to completion and the finishing touches, we are right there with you – one hundred percent. As your go-to Northshore Chicago custom home builder, we are proud to put our name on every completed Raugstad home.

As a builder of custom homes primarily on the Northshore of Chicago, Raugstad has been building custom homes, and homes on speculation for three generations. Our commitment is always to the client. From commencement of the project all the way through to completion and the finishing touches, we are right there with you – one hundred percent. As your go-to Northshore Chicago custom home builder, we are proud to put our name on every completed Raugstad home.

Experience the elegance of a full kitchen remodel designed to maximize both style and functionality. The project commenced with the removal of the soffit, allowing for taller upper cabinets that perfectly complement the custom kitchen layout. Carefully crafted cabinetry and a beautifully designed island were tailored to fit the unique space, creating a seamless and cohesive look. The kitchen is illuminated by a combination of can lights, under-cabinet lighting, and stylish pendant fixtures, ensuring a well-lit and inviting atmosphere. The stunning backsplash features ceramic tile arranged in a chic chevron pattern, adding a contemporary flair that catches the eye. With durable and luxurious quartz countertops, the kitchen not only exudes sophistication but offers practicality for everyday use. Floating shelving adds an open, airy feel while providing additional storage and display options, making this kitchen both a culinary haven and a welcoming gathering place for family and friends. This remodel truly transforms the kitchen into a modern masterpiece, where functionality meets aesthetic appeal.

The third part of the project is about the new addition to the family who has added a new sense of fun and liveliness. They adopted a puppy and decided to install what we are calling the doggy tunnel. Working closely with our carpenter we designed and built the doggy tunnel starting in the entry closet, with a small box to fit the dog, through the wall to another box on the outside of the condo with doggy doors on each end and in the middle. Training has commenced and I heard the puppy is now using it and loving it. This makes it easier for both the homeowner and the dog.

The design of this residence began as a collaboration between Alka Construction and Rush Dixon Architects to continue Fulton Neighborhood’s “unique modern living” approach to the built environment. The collective goal was to create a “lowcountry modern” aesthetic that responds to the site. Prior to the commencement of construction the current homeowner purchased the property; we were then able to customize the design to their priorities and preferences.

To aid in the kitchen a custom, retractable, mixer stand was installed, allowing for ease of use and access when baking season commences.
Inspiration for a mid-sized galley porcelain tile eat-in kitchen remodel in Minneapolis with an undermount sink, raised-panel cabinets, medium tone wood cabinets, quartz countertops, beige backsplash, subway tile backsplash, stainless steel appliances and a peninsula

DURING The back patio before the magic commences. Stay tuned. Robert Ramos
Patio photo in Houston

Custom, southeastern-facing 2 bedroom, 2 bath with panoramic NYC, Hudson River & downtown Jersey City views and parking in Observer Plaza, a steel & concrete elevator building. Expansive, open floorplan with custom built-in’s and walls of windows that lead to a large private terrace. Chef’s kitchen with corian counters and stainless steel appliances. Oversized en-suite master bedroom. Other features include; hardwood floors, recessed lighting, automated blinds, tons of custom built-ins with massive amounts of storage. Building has a new, state-of the-art gym and a great downtown location only minutes to PATH, ferry, waterfront, restaurants and nightlife. Lobby renovation expected to commence late fall 2017.

See what our client say about Paul Lopa Designs: We recently remodeled a studio we purchased for guests who visit us. The project included the demolition of a kitchenettem and a bathroom, and the installation of new cabinets, wood flooring, granite countertops, appliances, wood molding and a custom Murphy bed in the sleeping area. My husband and I wanted a contractor who specializes in high end kitchens. We hired Paul Lopa (who had previously done two projects for us—a kitchen remodel and a bathroom remodel) as we were extremely impressed with his work, from beginning to end. For the studio project, Paul brought many samples to our home before the project commenced. It was very easy for us to select the materials, from the wood used for the cabinets and Murphy bed to the granite countertop and wood floor. We were also very pleased with the appliances he helped us select as well, as the kitchen was transformed into a full-fledged kitchen with an eat-at counter. Paul helped us select custom marble for the bathroom which is gorgeous! Every suggestion he made was great. The studio is now worthy of being photographed by Architectural Digest! Paul and his crew are very professional. His staff is friendly and were always on time. Upon completion of the job, the whole area was clean and ready to use. Paul was always accessible and available to answer questions whenever we had one. We were impressed that the project finished on time and on budget! We will definitely use Paul for all future work. He is a consummate professional and very nice to work with.

Our team successfully removed the previous metal structure for the homeowner. Following the debris clearance, we commenced the foundation footings. Once the foundation was completed, we proceeded with the construction of the wall framing and floor, allowing for the installation of the roof trusses. After boarding the framing and roof, we wrapped the structure in Tyvek weatherproofing and began the indoor work, including electrical, insulation, and drywall. The project was completed with the installation of new siding, eavestroughs, shingles, and a door, providing our clients with the multi-functional space they desired.

As a builder of custom homes primarily on the Northshore of Chicago, Raugstad has been building custom homes, and homes on speculation for three generations. Our commitment is always to the client. From commencement of the project all the way through to completion and the finishing touches, we are right there with you – one hundred percent. As your go-to Northshore Chicago custom home builder, we are proud to put our name on every completed Raugstad home.

See what our client say about Paul Lopa Designs: We recently remodeled a studio we purchased for guests who visit us. The project included the demolition of a kitchenettem and a bathroom, and the installation of new cabinets, wood flooring, granite countertops, appliances, wood molding and a custom Murphy bed in the sleeping area. My husband and I wanted a contractor who specializes in high end kitchens. We hired Paul Lopa (who had previously done two projects for us—a kitchen remodel and a bathroom remodel) as we were extremely impressed with his work, from beginning to end. For the studio project, Paul brought many samples to our home before the project commenced. It was very easy for us to select the materials, from the wood used for the cabinets and Murphy bed to the granite countertop and wood floor. We were also very pleased with the appliances he helped us select as well, as the kitchen was transformed into a full-fledged kitchen with an eat-at counter. Paul helped us select custom marble for the bathroom which is gorgeous! Every suggestion he made was great. The studio is now worthy of being photographed by Architectural Digest! Paul and his crew are very professional. His staff is friendly and were always on time. Upon completion of the job, the whole area was clean and ready to use. Paul was always accessible and available to answer questions whenever we had one. We were impressed that the project finished on time and on budget! We will definitely use Paul for all future work. He is a consummate professional and very nice to work with.

Custom, southeastern-facing 2 bedroom, 2 bath with panoramic NYC, Hudson River & downtown Jersey City views and parking in Observer Plaza, a steel & concrete elevator building. Expansive, open floorplan with custom built-ins and walls of windows that lead to a large private terrace. Chef’s kitchen with corian counters and stainless steel appliances. Oversized en-suite master bedroom. Other features include; hardwood floors, recessed lighting, automated blinds, tons of custom built-ins with massive amounts of storage. Building has a new, state-of-the-art gym and a great downtown location only minutes to PATH, ferry, waterfront, restaurants, and nightlife. Lobby renovation expected to commence late fall 2017.

The third part of the project is about the new addition to the family who has added a new sense of fun and liveliness. They adopted a puppy and decided to install what we are calling the doggy tunnel. Working closely with our carpenter we designed and built the doggy tunnel starting in the entry closet, with a small box to fit the dog, through the wall to another box on the outside of the condo with doggy doors on each end and in the middle. Training has commenced and I heard the puppy is now using it and loving it. This makes it easier for both the homeowner and the dog.

Custom, southeastern-facing 2 bedroom, 2 bath with panoramic NYC, Hudson River & downtown Jersey City views and parking in Observer Plaza, a steel & concrete elevator building. Expansive, open floorplan with custom built-ins and walls of windows that lead to a large private terrace. Chef’s kitchen with corian counters and stainless steel appliances. Oversized en-suite master bedroom. Other features include; hardwood floors, recessed lighting, automated blinds, tons of custom built-ins with massive amounts of storage. Building has a new, state-of-the-art gym and a great downtown location only minutes to PATH, ferry, waterfront, restaurants, and nightlife. Lobby renovation expected to commence late fall 2017.

See what our client say about Paul Lopa Designs: We recently remodeled a studio we purchased for guests who visit us. The project included the demolition of a kitchenettem and a bathroom, and the installation of new cabinets, wood flooring, granite countertops, appliances, wood molding and a custom Murphy bed in the sleeping area. My husband and I wanted a contractor who specializes in high end kitchens. We hired Paul Lopa (who had previously done two projects for us—a kitchen remodel and a bathroom remodel) as we were extremely impressed with his work, from beginning to end. For the studio project, Paul brought many samples to our home before the project commenced. It was very easy for us to select the materials, from the wood used for the cabinets and Murphy bed to the granite countertop and wood floor. We were also very pleased with the appliances he helped us select as well, as the kitchen was transformed into a full-fledged kitchen with an eat-at counter. Paul helped us select custom marble for the bathroom which is gorgeous! Every suggestion he made was great. The studio is now worthy of being photographed by Architectural Digest! Paul and his crew are very professional. His staff is friendly and were always on time. Upon completion of the job, the whole area was clean and ready to use. Paul was always accessible and available to answer questions whenever we had one. We were impressed that the project finished on time and on budget! We will definitely use Paul for all future work. He is a consummate professional and very nice to work with.

This photo shows our ProTEK team member commencing work on the window sill repair. This picture also is a good close up of the trim’s former gold color. You can also see the overspray lines in the shingle siding’s former gray color.

See what our client say about Paul Lopa Designs: We recently remodeled a studio we purchased for guests who visit us. The project included the demolition of a kitchenettem and a bathroom, and the installation of new cabinets, wood flooring, granite countertops, appliances, wood molding and a custom Murphy bed in the sleeping area. My husband and I wanted a contractor who specializes in high end kitchens. We hired Paul Lopa (who had previously done two projects for us—a kitchen remodel and a bathroom remodel) as we were extremely impressed with his work, from beginning to end. For the studio project, Paul brought many samples to our home before the project commenced. It was very easy for us to select the materials, from the wood used for the cabinets and Murphy bed to the granite countertop and wood floor. We were also very pleased with the appliances he helped us select as well, as the kitchen was transformed into a full-fledged kitchen with an eat-at counter. Paul helped us select custom marble for the bathroom which is gorgeous! Every suggestion he made was great. The studio is now worthy of being photographed by Architectural Digest! Paul and his crew are very professional. His staff is friendly and were always on time. Upon completion of the job, the whole area was clean and ready to use. Paul was always accessible and available to answer questions whenever we had one. We were impressed that the project finished on time and on budget! We will definitely use Paul for all future work. He is a consummate professional and very nice to work with.