Designed by Daniel Altmann of Reico Kitchen & Bath in Bethesda, MD this Washington, DC contemporary kitchen design features Ultracraft Cabinetry in the Acrilux door style in a Linear Bronze/Powder finish. Kitchen countertops are engineered quartz in the color Wayborne by Cambria. Kitchen appliances are by JennAir. Kitchen tile backsplash features Tomei 3x12 glass tile in a cloth finish. For the customer, the experience was overwhelmingly positive, sharing "Daniel as an absolute pleasure to work with. He listened closely to my goals for the kitchen and was patient and flexible with providing multiple options to help with making the many decisions required. As with most major renovations, we ran into unexpected issues, in our case during demolition. Everyone worked with us to come up with a solution that preserved the integrity of the design." Photos courtesy of BTW Images LLC.

These clients reached out to Hillcrest Construction when their family began out-growing their Phoenixville-area home. Through a comprehensive design phase, opportunities to add square footage were identified along with a reorganization of the typical traffic flow throughout the house. All household traffic into the hastily-designed, existing family room bump-out addition was funneled through a 3’ berth within the kitchen making meal prep and other kitchen activities somewhat similar to a shift at a PA turnpike toll booth. In the existing bump-out addition, the family room was relatively tight and the dining room barely fit the 6-person dining table. Access to the backyard was somewhat obstructed by the necessary furniture and the kitchen alone didn’t satisfy storage needs beyond a quick trip to the grocery store. The home’s existing front door was the only front entrance, and without a foyer or mudroom, the front formal room often doubled as a drop-zone for groceries, bookbags, and other on-the-go items. Hillcrest Construction designed a remedy to both address the function and flow issues along with adding square footage via a 150 sq ft addition to the family room and converting the garage into a mudroom entry and walk-through pantry. - The project’s addition was not especially large but was able to facilitate a new pathway to the home’s rear family room. The existing brick wall at the bottom of the second-floor staircase was opened up and created a new, natural flow from the second-floor bedrooms to the front formal room, and into the rear family hang-out space- all without having to cut through the often busy kitchen. The dining room area was relocated to remove it from the pathway to the door to the backyard. Additionally, free and clear access to the rear yard was established for both two-legged and four-legged friends. The existing chunky slider door was removed and in its place was fabricated and installed a custom centerpiece that included a new gas fireplace insert with custom brick surround, two side towers for display items and choice vinyl, and two base cabinets with metal-grated doors to house a subwoofer, wifi equipment, and other stow-away items. The black walnut countertops and mantle pop from the white cabinetry, and the wall-mounted TV with soundbar complete the central A/V hub. The custom cabs and tops were designed and built at Hillcrest’s custom shop. The farmhouse appeal was completed with distressed engineered hardwood floors and craftsman-style window and door trim throughout. - Another major component of the project was the conversion of the garage into a pantry+mudroom+everyday entry. The clients had used their smallish garage for storage of outdoor yard and recreational equipment. With those storage needs being addressed at the exterior, the space was transformed into a custom pantry and mudroom. The floor level within the space was raised to meet the rest of the house and insulated appropriately. A newly installed pocket door divided the dining room area from the designed-to-spec pantry/beverage center. The pantry was designed to house dry storage, cleaning supplies, and dry bar supplies when the cleaning and shopping are complete. A window seat with doggie supply storage below was worked into the design to accommodate the existing elevation of the original garage window. A coat closet and a small set of steps divide the pantry from the mudroom entry. The mudroom entry is marked with a striking combo of the herringbone thin-brick flooring and a custom hutch. Kids returning home from school have a designated spot to hang their coats and bookbags with two deep drawers for shoes. A custom cherry bench top adds a punctuation of warmth. The entry door and window replaced the old overhead garage doors to create the daily-used informal entry off the driveway. With the house being such a favorable area, and the clients not looking to pull up roots, Hillcrest Construction facilitated a collaborative experience and comprehensive plan to change the house for the better and make it a home to grow within.

The owner of this historic and landmarked town-home renovation in Hudson Square, originally built in 1826, hired Gallery Kitchen and Bath to fully gut-renovate this 3-unit row-home. The scope of work included a full-scale renovation of the owners unit, including the renovation of the kitchen, one 4-piece master ensuite bathroom, one 3-piece bathroom with a walk-in steam shower, and a beautiful powder room. Additional work in the owners unit also included flooring, electrical upgrade, major plumbing work, new HVAC system, restoration of a fireplace, installation of a fully integrated smart home system and landmarked approved windows. CELLAR RENOVATION IN NYC LANDMARKED TOWN-HOME Rounding out the owners unit we renovated the cellar, which was converted into an entertainment space and featured a custom glass curtain wall, along with a custom staircase with an exposed brick wall. During the demolition phase of the cellar, our team discovered 56 wine jugs filled with wine from the prohibition era, leading us to name this project the prohibition house. For the two tenant units, Gallery Kitchen and Bath undertook the renovation of 2 kitchens, 4 bathrooms, new hardwood flooring throughout, along with detailed carpentry work in the entire home. WHY GALLERY KITCHEN AND BATH After interviewing multiple contractors, our client decided on Gallery Kitchen and Bath primarily because of our turnkey design, selection, and build process. In a renovation of this magnitude it is crucial to have a centralized full service contractor under one roof to handle all of the aspects and simultaneous moving parts of the project. Decentralizing the entire process by having multiple unaffiliated vendors handle various parts of the process can easily become chaotic, time consuming, and costly. Because Gallery Kitchen and Bath undertook the entire process, from the design of the entire space to the selection and procurement of all finishes and fixtures, down to the procurement of all permits and LPC filings, it made a seemingly chaotic project a’lot more manageable. PHASE 1: DESIGN, SELECTION, PROCUREMENT Our client wanted the renovation to incorporate a fully modern design into his Hudson Square town-house. Being that this is a landmarked property, the exterior facade had to be restored and kept with the original aesthetic, the interior of the home however was a whole different story. In keeping up with the modern aesthetic, our designers went to work to design a custom kitchen that included fully custom flat panel base cabinets in a white high gloss finish and an absolute matte black appliance/pantry wall. The kitchen design also included a white quartz countertop and backsplash with a waterfall edge island. To bring warmth to the modern kitchen, our designers incorporated a rifted and quartered select oak wood floor in a herringbone pattern, and custom blended stain with matte polyurethane finish. For continuity, the wood floor was also extended throughout the entire owners unit. In the ensuite bathroom we created a “wet area” which houses a standalone soaking tub as well as a beautiful rainfall shower, completely leveled with the rest of the floor in the bathroom. Some highlights within this space include a tiled square drain, large niche cutouts with a carrera marble accents. Once again, to bring warmth to this modern bathroom, our designers incorporated a floating rustic oak vanity and carrera marble mosaic floor tile. Last on the list on the owners unit floor was the cellar, which our client wanted to utilize as an entertainment space for his friends and family. During the design phase, we incorporated an open concept layout, wedding the indoor and outdoor space with a custom glass curtain wall. The design also included custom walnut built-ins that serve as a custom wet bar and storage piece. With the design approved and selections made our office liaisons moved to procure all of the material selections and finishes. PHASE 2: DEMO Because this home is almost two centuries old, we had to take extra precaution during the interior demolition phase of the project. One specific area that we had to pay special attention to was the existing brick. Over time the mortar in old brick homes deteriorates and turns into dust – for this reason it was extremely important that a thorough and ongoing inspection of the exteriors and interior walls took place during the demolition of the space. After 14 30-yard debris containers and 56 wine filled jugs from the prohibition era later , the demolition of this historic Hudson Square town-home came to an end. If you are wondering whether we tried the wine? After notifying the owner we agreed to open one of the jugs and try them together – nothing but vinegar. PHASE 3: BUILD One of the challenges in a renovation project of this scope is nailing down the logistics and delivery of fixtures and finish material. Adding to this challenge was a narrow entry door that required us to use a boom truck in order to deliver some of the larger materials on site. To ensure a succinct time schedule, we boomed all of the materials through the 3rd floor for the entire project and worked our renovation work from top floor to cellar. This technique also insured that any unexpected water issues during the renovation process would not damage a finished floor. With all roughing and framing complete, the Gallery KBNY team proceeded to execute on the design plan. THE REVEAL From what was once a dilapidated town-home with nothing but potential, to a glamorous and luxurious modern interior space – the prohibition house was complete. Ready to speak with us about your renovation project? Contact us to schedule your free consultation and let Gallery KBNY show you why our all-inclusive approach to your renovation is the smartest way to renovating in NYC.

Designed by Daniel Altmann of Reico Kitchen & Bath in Bethesda, MD this Washington, DC contemporary kitchen design features Ultracraft Cabinetry in the Acrilux door style in a Linear Bronze/Powder finish. Kitchen countertops are engineered quartz in the color Wayborne by Cambria. Kitchen appliances are by JennAir. Kitchen tile backsplash features Tomei 3x12 glass tile in a cloth finish. For the customer, the experience was overwhelmingly positive, sharing "Daniel as an absolute pleasure to work with. He listened closely to my goals for the kitchen and was patient and flexible with providing multiple options to help with making the many decisions required. As with most major renovations, we ran into unexpected issues, in our case during demolition. Everyone worked with us to come up with a solution that preserved the integrity of the design." Photos courtesy of BTW Images LLC.

This project included a massive renovation to nearly all spaces in the home: the entry, living room, family room, dining room, kitchen, staircase, and master bathroom. Each space underwent a massive transformation in order to create the elegant & traditional aesthetic that our clients love. On the main level of the home, the original space layout was extremely compartmentalized and dark. Our clients wanted to open up and brighten the space as much as possible. In addition to this, a major goal was to increase function and to create a welcoming environment for guests and the clients alike. We started by opening up the space plan significantly. This allows for flowing space between the kitchen, front living room, and rear family room. Light is better carried through these spaces, and further emphasized with airy colors, light cabinetry, and a better lighting plan overall. We removed the old decorative ceiling beams and reworked closets and hallways to create a more open and functional main level. The kitchen offers a large amount of counter space and storage opportunity, but also welcomes guests at a sizable island and secondary peninsula. Beyond the kitchen, we designed a work nook where display storage and functional workspace are both present. We reworked both fireplaces in the home to create warm nooks for gathering: both fireplaces feature large format stone and are flanked with display shelving. The master bathroom upstairs was completely reworked as well. We eliminated the oversized drop-in tub and in-wall fireplace, and took away the steam shower that had been causing water and mildew issues for years. We relocated the toilet and developed a gorgeous vanity area in the space where the old bathtub and fireplace used to be. We then created a massive shower room in lieu of a tub/shower combination. The bathroom is adorned with warm tones and natural textures: marble subway tile runs up the entire wall behind the vanity, wood-look porcelain covers the floor and back wall of the shower, and simple artisan subway tiles in a creamy vanilla tone cover the shower walls. These spaces completely transformed the look and feel of the house, and we are so happy our amazing clients get to enjoy this home with their family for years to come!

This kitchen was designed for a couple who have lived in their home for more than 30 years and have no plans to move. They LOVE the color blue. In terms of design, the challenges were about striking the right balance between the family’s desire to have ‘everything’ blue and the existing 1980’s yellowed oak, prevalent throughout the home.
 When we started out on the design journey, the existing style was very traditional with a lot of oak trim, walls, floors and doors, but as the project moved along it was evident that the family wanted to update the style, leaning towards a more Transitional style. The existing kitchen was very dated with oak cabinets and floors and fell short in several areas: it was too small, without ample storage, had a tiny, angled island and was inefficient in terms of layout. In addition, the refrigerator was full depth and sat within a major walkway. The kitchen and nook area are open to the adjacent family room, also filled with oak; floors, formal ceiling molding, cabinetry, fireplace wall and mantle. This was another challenge; to blend the existing oak with the new, creating a distinctive, harmonious, and very inter-connected space. To address these issues, we framed in the existing wet bar in the family room, and opened that space into the kitchen. This was perfect for a counter-depth, built-in fridge and pantry and increased their storage capacity. We removed the tiny angled island and replaced with a longer narrow island which now serves as a prep space and landing area for the cooking space. We removed the existing dated hexagonal window in the nook, changed out the exterior door and created a new bar, complete with a more formal area within the nook to accommodate the glassware and dishware that was originally stored in the family room wet bar area. The new kitchen design incorporates painted shaker cabinets, Pro-Style Sub Zero, Wolf and Cove appliances, multiple workspaces, and, of course the use of ‘Blue’. To provide maximum ergonomic function, roll out trays were strategically planned at heights specific for convenient cooking apparatus and cutlery dividers included in drawers.

The original kitchen in this historic River Forest home was a hodgepodge of design elements created by additions to the space over the years. From a functional standpoint, the layout was overly complicated. The kitchen was an L shape with the work triangle in the small leg of the L. It was a fairly large space, but the layout made it feel like a very small kitchen. (See ‘before’ photo below.) The traffic flow from other areas of the home entered at awkward locations, rendering some walls useless for storage or workspace. In addition to solving functionality and flow issues, the homeowner wanted their new kitchen area to have an updated look that still tied into the home’s English Tudor style. THE REMODEL We took everything down to the studs and reestablished design elements like existing beams and a very particular texture on the walls and ceiling. The short leg of the L was closed off and a nice-sized walk-in pantry was put in its place. This functions as the major storage area now – just a few wall cabinets are visible for the everyday dishes. Entries into the space were closed off and relocated to help the overall traffic flow of the home. The windows and exterior doors in the room were removed and relocated. The new ones were finished in a style to match those in some of the existing parts of the home. THE RENEWED SPACE This kitchen now has a nice, spacious feel for this growing family of five. A large arch was built to enclose the range and disguise some architectural details that could not be changed. This was carefully finished in the same textured surface as the original walls. Pantries are now strategically located on both sides of the range area: a pull-out pantry on one side and a shallower pantry on the other side. The large island functions as a spacious work area and a central hub for the busy family’s many daily activities. The transitional design elements and subdued, neutral color palette contribute to what is now a very calming and functional space for the entire family.

The cost of kitchen cabinets is a major consideration when designing a new kitchen. There are so many things that need to be evaluated including the materials, the color and finish. What most kitchen designers don't mention are all of the issues relating to the fit and use of your new cabinets. At Performance Kitchens & Home, our roots come from fine craftspeople like George Nakashima and George Brauntrager, who pioneered many of the techniques that we integrate into our kitchen cabinets. We believe that every kitchen deserves cabinets that are beautiful, well-built, functional and that are designed to stand up to the test of time. We hope that some of these finely crafted kitchen cabinets will spark some ideas for you!

We specialize in professional appliance repair services for all major brands and models. Whether it’s a refrigerator that’s not cooling, a washer that won’t spin, or an oven that won’t heat, our experienced technicians can quickly diagnose and fix the problem. We’re committed to delivering fast, reliable, and affordable service with transparent pricing and no hidden fees. Our team takes pride in being punctual, respectful, and thorough on every job. From simple repairs to complex issues, customer satisfaction is always our top priority. Count on us to keep your home appliances running smoothly with expert care and attention.

This project included a massive renovation to nearly all spaces in the home: the entry, living room, family room, dining room, kitchen, staircase, and master bathroom. Each space underwent a massive transformation in order to create the elegant & traditional aesthetic that our clients love. On the main level of the home, the original space layout was extremely compartmentalized and dark. Our clients wanted to open up and brighten the space as much as possible. In addition to this, a major goal was to increase function and to create a welcoming environment for guests and the clients alike. We started by opening up the space plan significantly. This allows for flowing space between the kitchen, front living room, and rear family room. Light is better carried through these spaces, and further emphasized with airy colors, light cabinetry, and a better lighting plan overall. We removed the old decorative ceiling beams and reworked closets and hallways to create a more open and functional main level. The kitchen offers a large amount of counter space and storage opportunity, but also welcomes guests at a sizable island and secondary peninsula. Beyond the kitchen, we designed a work nook where display storage and functional workspace are both present. We reworked both fireplaces in the home to create warm nooks for gathering: both fireplaces feature large format stone and are flanked with display shelving. The master bathroom upstairs was completely reworked as well. We eliminated the oversized drop-in tub and in-wall fireplace, and took away the steam shower that had been causing water and mildew issues for years. We relocated the toilet and developed a gorgeous vanity area in the space where the old bathtub and fireplace used to be. We then created a massive shower room in lieu of a tub/shower combination. The bathroom is adorned with warm tones and natural textures: marble subway tile runs up the entire wall behind the vanity, wood-look porcelain covers the floor and back wall of the shower, and simple artisan subway tiles in a creamy vanilla tone cover the shower walls. These spaces completely transformed the look and feel of the house, and we are so happy our amazing clients get to enjoy this home with their family for years to come!

Photos by Debby Evans. This property slopes from the street to a seasonal creek in the back yard. Navigating the various spaces was troublesome so we created various, natural - as well as concrete steps, crushed granite pathways, stone steps, and flagstone - travel options throughout the landscape. Updated irrigation, efficient drainage, as well as dry creek beds to catch rain water that previously had simply gone directly at the residence were added. Many diseased, dangerous (hanging over the residence) oaks were assessed by several arborists. Sadly, more than 100 (mostly scrub oaks) required removal. This changed the natural lighting to the garden, how the sun impacted the residence, and offered opportunities to plant drought tolerant trees and shrubs of both visual interest, and fitting the space. Client had quite a few Japanese Maples that had originally been volunteers from a very large maple at another residence. All have been used and are doing beautifully. Olive trees and Little Ollie shrubs were used along with Carpet Roses, Lorapetalum, several varieties of Grevellia, Crape Myrtle Natchez and Red Rocket trees and shrubs, Maiden Hair grass, Blue Fescue, Redwoods, a specimen Limelight Hydrangea, Cistus, native Redbud, Vinca, Tree Hibiscus, Tree Roses, Birch, Dogwood, Penstemon, Pittosporum, Heavenly Bamboo, Miniature Roses, Succulents, Euphorbia, Bloodgood Maple, Redtwig Maple, Podocarpus and Oleander (screening), various groundcovers, evergreen shrubs and more were selected for their ease of care, color, seasonal color, and dynamic - but not busy - plant palette. The dated deck was redone with a relocation of the stairs to go directly to the pool. with a little effort, we saved the client hundreds of dollars on lighting by shopping for knock offs of higher priced lighting. A partial retractable awning, now provides an area of shade that was previously a non-issue over the deck with the oaks. The seasonal creek was completely cleaned out, made to be deeper and wider in anticipation of the heaving 2016 rains, with large native boulders from the property. Pistache trees were strategically planted for fall color. With one neighbor, on the West side of the property, vines were planted along their chain link fence for privacy for a private garden off the master bedroom. Wood fencing provides the majority of necessary enclosures.

This traditional home Evanston needed a major update. Broken concrete slab in the back yard was a huge trip hazard, and ineffective as an entertainment space. Drainage issues, and sunken paver walkway created additional problems for the site. We partnered with Kreitinger Design to create and build an updated, yet traditional space appropriate for the architecture and space. The result is a tranquil space for BBQing and entertaining.

Our customer had a major water leak issue that turned into an insurance claim. We were called out to repair the basement by repairing damaged walls, install a new kitchen, repair the bathroom, completely replace the stairs for the customer and install all new tile floors throughout.

An Ensuite Transformation in Richmond Hill This project showcases how we helped a wonderful retired couple in Richmond Hill transform their dated and dysfunctional master ensuite into a tranquil spa-like retreat. These lovely empty nesters, in their mid to late 70s, envisioned a space where they could truly relax and enjoy their time at home, especially when their family and grandkids came to visit. We were so honored to help them bring that vision to life. Understanding Their Needs: From our initial conversations, it was clear how much this couple valued comfort and tranquility. The existing ensuite, unfortunately, fell short of providing either. For the wife, the leaky deck-mount tub was a major disappointment, as she deeply cherished her long, hot baths. The husband, meanwhile, was eager to replace the outdated and cumbersome toilet/bidet combo with a modern, single-piece smart toilet – a desire for both convenience and a touch of modern luxury. The shower stall was cramped, dark, and plagued by mold, while the large double vanity, despite its size, lacked functional storage. It simply wasn't the relaxing oasis they deserved. Addressing Their Concerns: We understood that undertaking a renovation can be stressful, especially when you're not going to be on-site for much of the process. This couple was understandably concerned about potential delays, workmanship quality, and the possibility of unforeseen issues arising while they were away. We made it our priority to address each of these concerns with transparency, open communication, and a commitment to delivering on our promises. Our Personalized Solutions: We worked closely with the couple to develop solutions that perfectly matched their needs and desires: ● A Sanctuary for Soaking: The leaky deck-mount tub was replaced with a beautiful, freestanding oval tub – easier to access and offering a more contemporary aesthetic. The wife's vision of a small decorative table nearby for her bath essentials added a personal touch, creating a true spa-like experience. ● Modern Comfort and Convenience: The separate toilet and bidet were replaced with a sleek, high-tech smart toilet, fulfilling the husband's wish and adding a touch of modern luxury to their daily routine. ● A Bright and Inviting Shower: The cramped and moldy shower stall was completely transformed. We demolished the existing bulkhead and built a custom walk-in shower with frameless glass, a built-in bench, and a niche for toiletries. The result was a dramatically brighter and more spacious shower experience. ● Storage and Style: A semi-custom double vanity with ample cabinets and drawers was installed, finally providing each of them with dedicated storage and eliminating countertop clutter. This seemingly small change made a huge difference in their daily lives. ● A Calming Atmosphere: We carefully selected a calming spa-like color palette, incorporating muted, neutral tones and high-quality finishes to create a truly relaxing and inviting atmosphere. Navigating the Challenges Together: Renovations rarely go perfectly smoothly, and this project was no exception. We encountered delays with plumbing fixture deliveries, which threatened our timeline. However, by leveraging our established relationships with reliable suppliers, we were able to find alternative solutions and minimize the impact on the project schedule. We also faced a minor setback when the initially chosen grey vanity went out of stock. Working closely with the couple, we explored other options and ultimately selected a stunning sandstone-stained maple finish, which, as it turned out, complemented the other design elements beautifully. These moments reinforced the importance of open communication and collaboration throughout the process. The Joy of Transformation: The final result was truly remarkable. The transformed ensuite is a testament to the power of thoughtful design and meticulous execution. The space now features large-format, light-colored concrete-look porcelain tiles, creating a bright and airy feel. The sandstone-stained maple vanity, topped with a quartz countertop, serves as a beautiful focal point against the muted green walls. Matte black plumbing fixtures, hardware, and accessories add a touch of modern sophistication. The custom frameless shower glass enclosure enhances the spaciousness of the shower, while the smart toilet provides the ultimate in comfort and convenience. A Space to Cherish: The renovation has made a profound difference in this couple's daily lives. The wife can now indulge in her beloved long, hot baths in a truly tranquil setting. The husband enjoys the modern convenience of his new smart toilet. The spacious and bright walk-in shower is both beautiful and functional. And the new vanity provides ample storage, keeping the countertop clutter-free and contributing to the overall sense of peace and calm. This ensuite is no longer just a bathroom; it's a personal spa, a sanctuary within their home, where they can relax, rejuvenate, and enjoy their time together. Memorable Moments and Hiccups: ● Budget Adjustment: After finalizing the initial design, we worked closely with the clients to reselect the freestanding tub to ensure it aligned perfectly with their budget. ● Vanity Setback: The unexpected out-of-stock situation with the original vanity color required a quick and effective re-selection process, which ultimately led to an even better design outcome. This highlighted the importance of flexibility and collaboration during a renovation.

After nearly 20 years of working in a cramped and inefficient kitchen, as well a doing most of their cooking on a hotplate because of on-going issues with old appliances, our food-loving clients were more than ready for a major kitchen remodel. Our goal was to open the kitchen and living space without compromising the architectural integrity of this gorgeous 1930’s home, allowing our clients to cook and entertain guests at the same time. We made sure to retain key elements, such as the plaster cove moulding detail, arched doorways, and glass knobs in order to maintain the look and era of the home. Features includes a new bar and prep sink area, new appliances throughout, a cozy dog bed area incorporated into the cabinet design, shelving niche for cookbooks, magnetic cabinet door on the broom closet to display photos, a recessed television niche for the flatscreen, and radius steps with custom mosaic tile on the stair risers. Our clients can now cook and entertain guests with ease while their beloved dog’s standby to keep the floor clean!

The family's once-loved home had become a source of frustration. Their kitchen, a space meant for gathering and creating, felt cramped and outdated. Limited storage and poor organization made meal prep a tedious task, and entertaining guests a logistical nightmare. The laundry room, often overlooked, was equally problematic. Its cramped layout and lack of storage made laundry day a chore, and the noise of the washing machine echoed through the living room. To compound the issue, the absence of dedicated office spaces made working from home a constant struggle. One makeshift office was squeezed into the dining room, while another was relegated to the basement. The family was hesitant to embark on a major renovation, fearing the challenges and uncertainties that come with such a project. Finding a reliable contractor, ensuring timely completion, and worrying about potential shoddy workmanship were all valid concerns. We understood their anxieties and were committed to providing a smooth and stress-free experience. Our team crafted a design that addressed each of their concerns, transforming their home into a functional and stylish space. We reimagined the laundry room, creating a custom storage solution and incorporating a stackable washer and dryer. The open hallway to the living room was enclosed, creating a spacious closet with ample storage. The laundry room now seamlessly connected to the kitchen, simplifying the grocery unloading process. A former juliette balcony was converted into a dedicated office space, providing a peaceful and productive work-from-home environment. The dated and cluttered ensuite bathroom received a luxurious makeover. A clever pull-out storage system in the shower wall and a spacious niche provided much-needed organization. While every renovation project has its challenges, this one was remarkably smooth. The only significant hurdle was some additional structural work required in the basement to support the new office space. Our experienced team handled this efficiently, minimizing any disruption. The final result is a home that truly reflects the family's personality and lifestyle. The laundry room, now a cheerful and organized space with soft green cabinets, patterned floor tiles, and gold accents, showcases our attention to detail. The kitchen is a stunning centerpiece, featuring a striking combination of blue and white cabinets, dark hardwood floors, and a sleek white backsplash. The adjacent beverage bar, with its glass-fronted upper cabinets, provides an elegant space for entertaining. The ensuite bathroom is a spa-like retreat, with large-format marble tiles, a black vanity, and chrome fixtures creating an atmosphere of understated luxury. The renovation has had a profound impact on the family's daily life. Ample storage throughout the house has banished clutter, making it easier to maintain a tidy home. The seamless flow from the laundry room to the kitchen has streamlined the grocery unloading process, and the dedicated office spaces have transformed the work-from-home experience. Beyond the physical transformation, it was the shared moments and laughter that made this project truly special. The family's enthusiasm and good humor were contagious. One of the clients, with his big personality, even starred in a walk-through video of the finished project, showcasing his infectious joy. From choosing tiles to navigating unexpected challenges, the entire process was filled with warmth and collaboration. Even their four-year-old son, initially shy, warmed up to our site leader, Gus, nicknaming him "Gus the Bus," a moniker that endeared him to the entire team.

This project included a massive renovation to nearly all spaces in the home: the entry, living room, family room, dining room, kitchen, staircase, and master bathroom. Each space underwent a massive transformation in order to create the elegant & traditional aesthetic that our clients love. On the main level of the home, the original space layout was extremely compartmentalized and dark. Our clients wanted to open up and brighten the space as much as possible. In addition to this, a major goal was to increase function and to create a welcoming environment for guests and the clients alike. We started by opening up the space plan significantly. This allows for flowing space between the kitchen, front living room, and rear family room. Light is better carried through these spaces, and further emphasized with airy colors, light cabinetry, and a better lighting plan overall. We removed the old decorative ceiling beams and reworked closets and hallways to create a more open and functional main level. The kitchen offers a large amount of counter space and storage opportunity, but also welcomes guests at a sizable island and secondary peninsula. Beyond the kitchen, we designed a work nook where display storage and functional workspace are both present. We reworked both fireplaces in the home to create warm nooks for gathering: both fireplaces feature large format stone and are flanked with display shelving. The master bathroom upstairs was completely reworked as well. We eliminated the oversized drop-in tub and in-wall fireplace, and took away the steam shower that had been causing water and mildew issues for years. We relocated the toilet and developed a gorgeous vanity area in the space where the old bathtub and fireplace used to be. We then created a massive shower room in lieu of a tub/shower combination. The bathroom is adorned with warm tones and natural textures: marble subway tile runs up the entire wall behind the vanity, wood-look porcelain covers the floor and back wall of the shower, and simple artisan subway tiles in a creamy vanilla tone cover the shower walls. These spaces completely transformed the look and feel of the house, and we are so happy our amazing clients get to enjoy this home with their family for years to come!

An Ensuite Transformation in Richmond Hill This project showcases how we helped a wonderful retired couple in Richmond Hill transform their dated and dysfunctional master ensuite into a tranquil spa-like retreat. These lovely empty nesters, in their mid to late 70s, envisioned a space where they could truly relax and enjoy their time at home, especially when their family and grandkids came to visit. We were so honored to help them bring that vision to life. Understanding Their Needs: From our initial conversations, it was clear how much this couple valued comfort and tranquility. The existing ensuite, unfortunately, fell short of providing either. For the wife, the leaky deck-mount tub was a major disappointment, as she deeply cherished her long, hot baths. The husband, meanwhile, was eager to replace the outdated and cumbersome toilet/bidet combo with a modern, single-piece smart toilet – a desire for both convenience and a touch of modern luxury. The shower stall was cramped, dark, and plagued by mold, while the large double vanity, despite its size, lacked functional storage. It simply wasn't the relaxing oasis they deserved. Addressing Their Concerns: We understood that undertaking a renovation can be stressful, especially when you're not going to be on-site for much of the process. This couple was understandably concerned about potential delays, workmanship quality, and the possibility of unforeseen issues arising while they were away. We made it our priority to address each of these concerns with transparency, open communication, and a commitment to delivering on our promises. Our Personalized Solutions: We worked closely with the couple to develop solutions that perfectly matched their needs and desires: ● A Sanctuary for Soaking: The leaky deck-mount tub was replaced with a beautiful, freestanding oval tub – easier to access and offering a more contemporary aesthetic. The wife's vision of a small decorative table nearby for her bath essentials added a personal touch, creating a true spa-like experience. ● Modern Comfort and Convenience: The separate toilet and bidet were replaced with a sleek, high-tech smart toilet, fulfilling the husband's wish and adding a touch of modern luxury to their daily routine. ● A Bright and Inviting Shower: The cramped and moldy shower stall was completely transformed. We demolished the existing bulkhead and built a custom walk-in shower with frameless glass, a built-in bench, and a niche for toiletries. The result was a dramatically brighter and more spacious shower experience. ● Storage and Style: A semi-custom double vanity with ample cabinets and drawers was installed, finally providing each of them with dedicated storage and eliminating countertop clutter. This seemingly small change made a huge difference in their daily lives. ● A Calming Atmosphere: We carefully selected a calming spa-like color palette, incorporating muted, neutral tones and high-quality finishes to create a truly relaxing and inviting atmosphere. Navigating the Challenges Together: Renovations rarely go perfectly smoothly, and this project was no exception. We encountered delays with plumbing fixture deliveries, which threatened our timeline. However, by leveraging our established relationships with reliable suppliers, we were able to find alternative solutions and minimize the impact on the project schedule. We also faced a minor setback when the initially chosen grey vanity went out of stock. Working closely with the couple, we explored other options and ultimately selected a stunning sandstone-stained maple finish, which, as it turned out, complemented the other design elements beautifully. These moments reinforced the importance of open communication and collaboration throughout the process. The Joy of Transformation: The final result was truly remarkable. The transformed ensuite is a testament to the power of thoughtful design and meticulous execution. The space now features large-format, light-colored concrete-look porcelain tiles, creating a bright and airy feel. The sandstone-stained maple vanity, topped with a quartz countertop, serves as a beautiful focal point against the muted green walls. Matte black plumbing fixtures, hardware, and accessories add a touch of modern sophistication. The custom frameless shower glass enclosure enhances the spaciousness of the shower, while the smart toilet provides the ultimate in comfort and convenience. A Space to Cherish: The renovation has made a profound difference in this couple's daily lives. The wife can now indulge in her beloved long, hot baths in a truly tranquil setting. The husband enjoys the modern convenience of his new smart toilet. The spacious and bright walk-in shower is both beautiful and functional. And the new vanity provides ample storage, keeping the countertop clutter-free and contributing to the overall sense of peace and calm. This ensuite is no longer just a bathroom; it's a personal spa, a sanctuary within their home, where they can relax, rejuvenate, and enjoy their time together. Memorable Moments and Hiccups: ● Budget Adjustment: After finalizing the initial design, we worked closely with the clients to reselect the freestanding tub to ensure it aligned perfectly with their budget. ● Vanity Setback: The unexpected out-of-stock situation with the original vanity color required a quick and effective re-selection process, which ultimately led to an even better design outcome. This highlighted the importance of flexibility and collaboration during a renovation.

These clients reached out to Hillcrest Construction when their family began out-growing their Phoenixville-area home. Through a comprehensive design phase, opportunities to add square footage were identified along with a reorganization of the typical traffic flow throughout the house. All household traffic into the hastily-designed, existing family room bump-out addition was funneled through a 3’ berth within the kitchen making meal prep and other kitchen activities somewhat similar to a shift at a PA turnpike toll booth. In the existing bump-out addition, the family room was relatively tight and the dining room barely fit the 6-person dining table. Access to the backyard was somewhat obstructed by the necessary furniture and the kitchen alone didn’t satisfy storage needs beyond a quick trip to the grocery store. The home’s existing front door was the only front entrance, and without a foyer or mudroom, the front formal room often doubled as a drop-zone for groceries, bookbags, and other on-the-go items. Hillcrest Construction designed a remedy to both address the function and flow issues along with adding square footage via a 150 sq ft addition to the family room and converting the garage into a mudroom entry and walk-through pantry. - The project’s addition was not especially large but was able to facilitate a new pathway to the home’s rear family room. The existing brick wall at the bottom of the second-floor staircase was opened up and created a new, natural flow from the second-floor bedrooms to the front formal room, and into the rear family hang-out space- all without having to cut through the often busy kitchen. The dining room area was relocated to remove it from the pathway to the door to the backyard. Additionally, free and clear access to the rear yard was established for both two-legged and four-legged friends. The existing chunky slider door was removed and in its place was fabricated and installed a custom centerpiece that included a new gas fireplace insert with custom brick surround, two side towers for display items and choice vinyl, and two base cabinets with metal-grated doors to house a subwoofer, wifi equipment, and other stow-away items. The black walnut countertops and mantle pop from the white cabinetry, and the wall-mounted TV with soundbar complete the central A/V hub. The custom cabs and tops were designed and built at Hillcrest’s custom shop. The farmhouse appeal was completed with distressed engineered hardwood floors and craftsman-style window and door trim throughout. - Another major component of the project was the conversion of the garage into a pantry+mudroom+everyday entry. The clients had used their smallish garage for storage of outdoor yard and recreational equipment. With those storage needs being addressed at the exterior, the space was transformed into a custom pantry and mudroom. The floor level within the space was raised to meet the rest of the house and insulated appropriately. A newly installed pocket door divided the dining room area from the designed-to-spec pantry/beverage center. The pantry was designed to house dry storage, cleaning supplies, and dry bar supplies when the cleaning and shopping are complete. A window seat with doggie supply storage below was worked into the design to accommodate the existing elevation of the original garage window. A coat closet and a small set of steps divide the pantry from the mudroom entry. The mudroom entry is marked with a striking combo of the herringbone thin-brick flooring and a custom hutch. Kids returning home from school have a designated spot to hang their coats and bookbags with two deep drawers for shoes. A custom cherry bench top adds a punctuation of warmth. The entry door and window replaced the old overhead garage doors to create the daily-used informal entry off the driveway. With the house being such a favorable area, and the clients not looking to pull up roots, Hillcrest Construction facilitated a collaborative experience and comprehensive plan to change the house for the better and make it a home to grow within.