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Located in the heart of Montreal, Binôme is an architectural urban densification project built by Modulor. Composed of two distinct buildings connected by an inner courtyard, this new five-unit development stands out through its unique layout, architecture, and exceptional attention to detail. The construction required rigorous planning and precise technical execution, particularly due to major excavation work and underpinning of adjacent buildings. Such interventions in a dense urban environment demand specialized expertise and tight project management at every phase of the build.
Conceived as an income-generating property, the clients benefited from our strategic support to ensure the profitability, efficiency, and optimization of their investment. Modulor worked closely with the team at Appareil Architecture to bring to life a project of high architectural integrity.
Binôme’s architecture draws inspiration from the area's industrial past: clean volumes, red brick, generous openings reminiscent of former workshops, and elegant brick colonnades form a refined and cohesive ensemble. The central courtyard, designed as a luminous and welcoming shared space, becomes the vibrant heart of the project. A colorful metal staircase, crafted by Atomic Soudure, connects both buildings and adds a distinctive, curated touch.
As a finalist for the 2025 Ordre des architectes du Québec Awards of Excellence, Binôme stands as a model of successful urban revitalization. It illustrates how thoughtful, well-executed construction can elevate Montreal’s built environment while addressing today’s densification challenges.

Five stars isn’t enough! Our project was to reconfigure and update the main floor of a house we recently purchased that was built in 1961. We wanted to maintain some of the unique feeling it originally had but bring it up-to-date and eliminate the closed-in rooms and downright weird layout that was the result of multiple, partial remodeling projects. We began with a long wishlist of changes which also required replacement of very antiquated plumbing, electrical wiring and HVAC. We even found a fireplace that had been walled in and needed major re-construction. Many other aspects and details on this incredible list we made included an all new kitchen layout, converting a bedroom into a master closet, adding new half-bath, completely rebuilding the master bath, and adding stone, tile and custom built cabinetry. Our design plans included many fixtures and details that we specified and required professional installation and careful handling. Innovative helped us make reasonable decisions. Their skilled staff took us through a design process that made sense. There were many questions and all were answered with sincere conversation and positive – innovation – on how we could achieve our goals. Innovative provided us with professional consultants, who listened and were courteous and creative, with solid knowledge and informative judgement. When they didn’t have an answer, they did the research. They developed a comprehensive project plan that exceeded our expectations. Every item on our long list was checked-off. All agreed on work was fulfilled and they completed all this in just under four months. Innovative took care of putting together a team of skilled professional specialists who were all dedicated to make everything right. Engineering, construction, supervision, and I cannot even begin to describe how much thanks we have for the demolition crew! Our multiple, detailed project designs from Raul and professional design advice from Mindy and the connections she recommended are all of the best quality. Diego Jr., Trevor and his team kept everything on track and neat and tidy every single day and Diego Sr., Mark, Ismael, Albert, Santiago and team are true craftsmen who follow-up and make the most minuscule woodworking details perfect. The cabinets by Tim and electrical work and installation of fixtures by Kemchan Harrilal-BB and Navindra Doolratram, and Augustine and his crew on tile and stone work – all perfection. Aisling and the office crew were always responsive to our calls and requests. And of course Clark and Eric who oversaw everything and gave us the best of the best! Apologies if we didn’t get everyone on this list – you’re all great! Thank you for your hard work and dedication. We can’t thank you enough Innovative Construction – we kind of want to do it again!
Dave Hallman & Matt DeGraffenreid

Five stars isn’t enough! Our project was to reconfigure and update the main floor of a house we recently purchased that was built in 1961. We wanted to maintain some of the unique feeling it originally had but bring it up-to-date and eliminate the closed-in rooms and downright weird layout that was the result of multiple, partial remodeling projects. We began with a long wishlist of changes which also required replacement of very antiquated plumbing, electrical wiring and HVAC. We even found a fireplace that had been walled in and needed major re-construction. Many other aspects and details on this incredible list we made included an all new kitchen layout, converting a bedroom into a master closet, adding new half-bath, completely rebuilding the master bath, and adding stone, tile and custom built cabinetry. Our design plans included many fixtures and details that we specified and required professional installation and careful handling. Innovative helped us make reasonable decisions. Their skilled staff took us through a design process that made sense. There were many questions and all were answered with sincere conversation and positive – innovation – on how we could achieve our goals. Innovative provided us with professional consultants, who listened and were courteous and creative, with solid knowledge and informative judgement. When they didn’t have an answer, they did the research. They developed a comprehensive project plan that exceeded our expectations. Every item on our long list was checked-off. All agreed on work was fulfilled and they completed all this in just under four months. Innovative took care of putting together a team of skilled professional specialists who were all dedicated to make everything right. Engineering, construction, supervision, and I cannot even begin to describe how much thanks we have for the demolition crew! Our multiple, detailed project designs from Raul and professional design advice from Mindy and the connections she recommended are all of the best quality. Diego Jr., Trevor and his team kept everything on track and neat and tidy every single day and Diego Sr., Mark, Ismael, Albert, Santiago and team are true craftsmen who follow-up and make the most minuscule woodworking details perfect. The cabinets by Tim and electrical work and installation of fixtures by Kemchan Harrilal-BB and Navindra Doolratram, and Augustine and his crew on tile and stone work – all perfection. Aisling and the office crew were always responsive to our calls and requests. And of course Clark and Eric who oversaw everything and gave us the best of the best! Apologies if we didn’t get everyone on this list – you’re all great! Thank you for your hard work and dedication. We can’t thank you enough Innovative Construction – we kind of want to do it again!
Dave Hallman & Matt DeGraffenreid
Find the right local pro for your project

Five stars isn’t enough! Our project was to reconfigure and update the main floor of a house we recently purchased that was built in 1961. We wanted to maintain some of the unique feeling it originally had but bring it up-to-date and eliminate the closed-in rooms and downright weird layout that was the result of multiple, partial remodeling projects. We began with a long wishlist of changes which also required replacement of very antiquated plumbing, electrical wiring and HVAC. We even found a fireplace that had been walled in and needed major re-construction. Many other aspects and details on this incredible list we made included an all new kitchen layout, converting a bedroom into a master closet, adding new half-bath, completely rebuilding the master bath, and adding stone, tile and custom built cabinetry. Our design plans included many fixtures and details that we specified and required professional installation and careful handling. Innovative helped us make reasonable decisions. Their skilled staff took us through a design process that made sense. There were many questions and all were answered with sincere conversation and positive – innovation – on how we could achieve our goals. Innovative provided us with professional consultants, who listened and were courteous and creative, with solid knowledge and informative judgement. When they didn’t have an answer, they did the research. They developed a comprehensive project plan that exceeded our expectations. Every item on our long list was checked-off. All agreed on work was fulfilled and they completed all this in just under four months. Innovative took care of putting together a team of skilled professional specialists who were all dedicated to make everything right. Engineering, construction, supervision, and I cannot even begin to describe how much thanks we have for the demolition crew! Our multiple, detailed project designs from Raul and professional design advice from Mindy and the connections she recommended are all of the best quality. Diego Jr., Trevor and his team kept everything on track and neat and tidy every single day and Diego Sr., Mark, Ismael, Albert, Santiago and team are true craftsmen who follow-up and make the most minuscule woodworking details perfect. The cabinets by Tim and electrical work and installation of fixtures by Kemchan Harrilal-BB and Navindra Doolratram, and Augustine and his crew on tile and stone work – all perfection. Aisling and the office crew were always responsive to our calls and requests. And of course Clark and Eric who oversaw everything and gave us the best of the best! Apologies if we didn’t get everyone on this list – you’re all great! Thank you for your hard work and dedication. We can’t thank you enough Innovative Construction – we kind of want to do it again!
Dave Hallman & Matt DeGraffenreid

Five stars isn’t enough! Our project was to reconfigure and update the main floor of a house we recently purchased that was built in 1961. We wanted to maintain some of the unique feeling it originally had but bring it up-to-date and eliminate the closed-in rooms and downright weird layout that was the result of multiple, partial remodeling projects. We began with a long wishlist of changes which also required replacement of very antiquated plumbing, electrical wiring and HVAC. We even found a fireplace that had been walled in and needed major re-construction. Many other aspects and details on this incredible list we made included an all new kitchen layout, converting a bedroom into a master closet, adding new half-bath, completely rebuilding the master bath, and adding stone, tile and custom built cabinetry. Our design plans included many fixtures and details that we specified and required professional installation and careful handling. Innovative helped us make reasonable decisions. Their skilled staff took us through a design process that made sense. There were many questions and all were answered with sincere conversation and positive – innovation – on how we could achieve our goals. Innovative provided us with professional consultants, who listened and were courteous and creative, with solid knowledge and informative judgement. When they didn’t have an answer, they did the research. They developed a comprehensive project plan that exceeded our expectations. Every item on our long list was checked-off. All agreed on work was fulfilled and they completed all this in just under four months. Innovative took care of putting together a team of skilled professional specialists who were all dedicated to make everything right. Engineering, construction, supervision, and I cannot even begin to describe how much thanks we have for the demolition crew! Our multiple, detailed project designs from Raul and professional design advice from Mindy and the connections she recommended are all of the best quality. Diego Jr., Trevor and his team kept everything on track and neat and tidy every single day and Diego Sr., Mark, Ismael, Albert, Santiago and team are true craftsmen who follow-up and make the most minuscule woodworking details perfect. The cabinets by Tim and electrical work and installation of fixtures by Kemchan Harrilal-BB and Navindra Doolratram, and Augustine and his crew on tile and stone work – all perfection. Aisling and the office crew were always responsive to our calls and requests. And of course Clark and Eric who oversaw everything and gave us the best of the best! Apologies if we didn’t get everyone on this list – you’re all great! Thank you for your hard work and dedication. We can’t thank you enough Innovative Construction – we kind of want to do it again!
Dave Hallman & Matt DeGraffenreid

"When we bought our house in Poway 11 years ago, we were so happy with our huge master bath and Jacuzzi tub. It was such a huge step-up from our prior home. But just like the rest of the house, the master bath was already almost 20 years old and getting out dated and in need of remodeling. We broke up our remodeling projects into every couple of years, doing what we could ourselves and hiring out for the rest. The master bath was the last project and much too big for us to do on our own. We got 3 quotes from 3 contractors listed on Angie’s list which all had good reviews. One was a major re modeler and the other two were smaller contractors. We ended up going with TaylorPro because he was right in the middle and had great reviews.
Kerry was very responsive getting us a timely estimate and had great suggestions for what we were looking for. From the start to finish it turned out to be a wonderful experience! To our delight, they were able to get started ahead of what we were told. Everything went almost as scheduled and we were informed constantly on where we were in the project. Kerry was very responsive to all our concerns or requests and we were never left wondering what the next step would be. His crew was wonderful, so polite and hard working. They were very professional, on time, considerate and knew exactly what they were doing.
There were certain things we were really looking for in the remodel. First off, the bathroom was pretty large with a high ceiling. In the winter months, it was always really cold and hard to heat. To solve that we had TaylorPro install heated flooring beneath the travertine tiles. We also needed a custom vanity that would conceal hair appliances, most of our personal toiletries and have enough storage for everything else. The cabinetry was custom designed to exactly what we were looking for. Lastly, we wanted a classic, timeless look using tumbled travertine. After consulting with his designer we were able to select all the tile, accent tile and a beautiful frameless glass shower enclosure.
The finished project was beyond our highest expectations and we won’t hesitate to use Kerry and his crew for any future jobs or recommend him to family and friends."
~ Mark and Amy B, Clients
Frameless shower door, glass tile with rope border, dark and light travertine tiles on walls, travertine on floor, heated floor by NuHeat, tub and sinks by Kohler, shower/tub/vanity fixtures Hansgrohe, toilet Toto, custom cabinets by Thead Custom Cabinetry.
Photo by Kerry W. Taylor

Example of a large beach style l-shaped eat-in kitchen design in Miami with granite countertops, multicolored backsplash, stainless steel appliances and an island

"When we bought our house in Poway 11 years ago, we were so happy with our huge master bath and Jacuzzi tub. It was such a huge step-up from our prior home. But just like the rest of the house, the master bath was already almost 20 years old and getting out dated and in need of remodeling. We broke up our remodeling projects into every couple of years, doing what we could ourselves and hiring out for the rest. The master bath was the last project and much too big for us to do on our own. We got 3 quotes from 3 contractors listed on Angie’s list which all had good reviews. One was a major re modeler and the other two were smaller contractors. We ended up going with TaylorPro because he was right in the middle and had great reviews.
Kerry was very responsive getting us a timely estimate and had great suggestions for what we were looking for. From the start to finish it turned out to be a wonderful experience! To our delight, they were able to get started ahead of what we were told. Everything went almost as scheduled and we were informed constantly on where we were in the project. Kerry was very responsive to all our concerns or requests and we were never left wondering what the next step would be. His crew was wonderful, so polite and hard working. They were very professional, on time, considerate and knew exactly what they were doing.
There were certain things we were really looking for in the remodel. First off, the bathroom was pretty large with a high ceiling. In the winter months, it was always really cold and hard to heat. To solve that we had TaylorPro install heated flooring beneath the travertine tiles. We also needed a custom vanity that would conceal hair appliances, most of our personal toiletries and have enough storage for everything else. The cabinetry was custom designed to exactly what we were looking for. Lastly, we wanted a classic, timeless look using tumbled travertine. After consulting with his designer we were able to select all the tile, accent tile and a beautiful frameless glass shower enclosure.
The finished project was beyond our highest expectations and we won’t hesitate to use Kerry and his crew for any future jobs or recommend him to family and friends."
~ Mark and Amy B, Clients
Frameless shower door, glass tile with rope border, dark and light travertine tiles on walls, travertine on floor, heated floor by NuHeat, tub and sinks by Kohler, shower/tub/vanity fixtures Hansgrohe, toilet Toto, custom cabinets by Thead Custom Cabinetry.
Photo by Kerry W. Taylor

Located in the heart of Montreal, Binôme is an architectural urban densification project built by Modulor. Composed of two distinct buildings connected by an inner courtyard, this new five-unit development stands out through its unique layout, architecture, and exceptional attention to detail. The construction required rigorous planning and precise technical execution, particularly due to major excavation work and underpinning of adjacent buildings. Such interventions in a dense urban environment demand specialized expertise and tight project management at every phase of the build.
Conceived as an income-generating property, the clients benefited from our strategic support to ensure the profitability, efficiency, and optimization of their investment. Modulor worked closely with the team at Appareil Architecture to bring to life a project of high architectural integrity.
Binôme’s architecture draws inspiration from the area's industrial past: clean volumes, red brick, generous openings reminiscent of former workshops, and elegant brick colonnades form a refined and cohesive ensemble. The central courtyard, designed as a luminous and welcoming shared space, becomes the vibrant heart of the project. A colorful metal staircase, crafted by Atomic Soudure, connects both buildings and adds a distinctive, curated touch.
As a finalist for the 2025 Ordre des architectes du Québec Awards of Excellence, Binôme stands as a model of successful urban revitalization. It illustrates how thoughtful, well-executed construction can elevate Montreal’s built environment while addressing today’s densification challenges.

Located in the heart of Montreal, Binôme is an architectural urban densification project built by Modulor. Composed of two distinct buildings connected by an inner courtyard, this new five-unit development stands out through its unique layout, architecture, and exceptional attention to detail. The construction required rigorous planning and precise technical execution, particularly due to major excavation work and underpinning of adjacent buildings. Such interventions in a dense urban environment demand specialized expertise and tight project management at every phase of the build.
Conceived as an income-generating property, the clients benefited from our strategic support to ensure the profitability, efficiency, and optimization of their investment. Modulor worked closely with the team at Appareil Architecture to bring to life a project of high architectural integrity.
Binôme’s architecture draws inspiration from the area's industrial past: clean volumes, red brick, generous openings reminiscent of former workshops, and elegant brick colonnades form a refined and cohesive ensemble. The central courtyard, designed as a luminous and welcoming shared space, becomes the vibrant heart of the project. A colorful metal staircase, crafted by Atomic Soudure, connects both buildings and adds a distinctive, curated touch.
As a finalist for the 2025 Ordre des architectes du Québec Awards of Excellence, Binôme stands as a model of successful urban revitalization. It illustrates how thoughtful, well-executed construction can elevate Montreal’s built environment while addressing today’s densification challenges.

In What Order Should You Renovate a Kitchen? Revolutionizing Kitchen and Bath Renovation with Allreno's Design AI
Renovating a kitchen can be one of the most exciting and rewarding home improvement projects. However, with so many decisions to make, it can also be overwhelming. From selecting kitchen cabinets to choosing countertops and appliances, the process often involves careful planning and organization. So, how do you ensure the renovation goes smoothly? One important factor is knowing the right order in which to tackle the project.
The Right Order for Kitchen Renovation
Renovating a kitchen involves multiple steps, and knowing the proper order of operations is crucial for both time efficiency and cost savings. Here’s a general guideline for how to approach your kitchen renovation:
1. Planning and Design: The first step in any renovation is planning. This includes deciding on the layout, design, and features you want in your kitchen. At this stage, you’ll also need to think about your budget and timeline. It’s essential to finalize these details before moving forward with the actual work.
2. Demolition: Once the design is set, it’s time to remove old fixtures, cabinets, appliances, and flooring. Demolition can be a messy process, but it’s necessary for starting fresh. Having a professional handle this phase is often a smart move to ensure everything is safely removed.
3. Structural Work: If you plan on altering the layout of the kitchen by knocking down walls or adding new plumbing or electrical work, now is the time to do it. Structural changes can be complicated and costly, so it’s important to ensure these are completed before installing any new elements.
4. Plumbing and Electrical Work: With the structure in place, you can begin installing plumbing and electrical systems. This might include adding new water lines, sinks, or electrical outlets for appliances. It’s best to bring in licensed professionals for this stage, as electrical and plumbing work requires expert knowledge.
5. Cabinet Installation: Once the plumbing and electrical work are in place, you can install the kitchen cabinets. Cabinets are one of the most important elements of the kitchen, and the Allreno design AI can make this process easier. Allreno's AI-driven platform allows you to visualize how different kitchen cabinets will fit into your space, ensuring you make the best choice based on your preferences and layout.
6. Countertops: After the cabinets are installed, it’s time to add countertops. Whether you choose granite, quartz, or a more budget-friendly option, countertops are a focal point of the kitchen, and they should complement the cabinets and other design elements.
7. Flooring: Now that the major structural elements are in place, it’s time to install your flooring. Whether you opt for tile, hardwood, or vinyl, flooring should be installed after the cabinets and countertops to prevent any damage during the installation process.
8. Appliances and Fixtures: With the foundation in place, you can now add your appliances (oven, refrigerator, dishwasher, etc.) and fixtures (sink, faucets, lighting). Allreno’s AI can also help here by offering kitchen design recommendations based on available appliances and space dimensions.
9. Final Touches: The last step is adding the finishing touches to your kitchen. This includes painting the walls, adding backsplash tiles, and installing accessories like handles and knobs on your cabinets. This is also the stage where you can implement any stylistic choices to make the space uniquely yours.
How Allreno's AI Transforms the Renovation Process
One of the biggest challenges of a kitchen renovation is visualizing how everything will come together. Allreno’s design AI changes that by offering an intuitive platform that brings your ideas to life. Here’s how:
• Personalized Design Recommendations: Allreno’s AI suggests design elements based on your preferences, style, and space dimensions. Whether it’s selecting the perfect kitchen cabinets or countertop finishes, the AI ensures everything works together cohesively.
• 3D Visualization: With Allreno’s AI-driven design tools, you can visualize your kitchen layout in 3D before any work begins. This allows you to see how different elements will fit into your space and make adjustments as needed.
• Efficient Project Management: Allreno helps you streamline the entire renovation process by generating accurate material lists, estimates, and timelines. This means you can avoid costly errors and keep your renovation on track.
Conclusion
Renovating a kitchen is an exciting project, but it requires careful planning and organization to ensure it’s done right. By following a strategic order of operations and leveraging cutting-edge technology like Allreno’s design AI, homeowners can streamline the process, save time and money, and bring their dream kitchen to life with ease. Allreno not only simplifies the design process but also provides innovative solutions that make kitchen and bath renovations faster and more efficient than ever before.
Ready to get started with your kitchen renovation? Allreno's AI-powered design platform is here to help you every step of the way.

Ever notice how your iron fence looks worse every spring after another Chicago winter? That slow deterioration is not cosmetic - it is active metal failure that compounds every freeze-thaw cycle until replacement becomes the only option. Windy City Painters works with homeowners across the Chicago North Side and Near West Side to restore original iron fencing on greystones, two-flats, Victorian brownstones, and coach houses before that point is reached.
PROJECT OVERVIEW
This iron fence restoration involved a classic Chicago residential property with original wrought iron fencing showing surface rust across the majority of pickets, flaking previous paint coats, and localized deep pitting near the base rails. A structural check identified two loose pickets requiring welding before any surface preparation or coating began. Total linear footage fell in the mid-range for a standard Chicago residential lot.
MATERIALS AND PRODUCTS
Windy City Painters selected Ospho rust converter for chemically neutralizing active iron oxide before priming. Ospho reacts with rust to form a stable phosphate compound that stops corrosion progression rather than simply sealing over it. Sherwin-Williams DTM rust-inhibitive primer was applied to all bare and converted surfaces, followed by two finish coats of Rust-Oleum DTM in satin black. DTM - direct to metal - formulas provide corrosion inhibitors built into the coating matrix, which matters significantly in Chicago's climate.
THE PROCESS
Step 1 - Structural Assessment and Welding Coordination. Before any surface preparation begins, Windy City Painters inspects every picket and rail connection for structural integrity. Loose or cracked iron must be welded before coating. Paint applied over a compromised joint will fail within one season as movement continues to break the bond. On this project, two pickets were tack-welded by a coordinating welder before prep started.
Step 2 - Wire Wheel Grinding and Needle Gun Descaling. All rusted sections were ground to bare or near-bare metal using wire wheel attachments and needle gun descaling tools. This step removes loose scale, flaking previous coatings, and surface contamination that would prevent primer adhesion. Skipping mechanical prep is the single most common reason iron fence paint fails prematurely on Chicago properties.
Step 3 - Ospho Rust Converter Application. Ospho was brushed into all pitted and converted areas and allowed to cure fully. The phosphoric acid chemistry converts iron oxide into iron phosphate, arresting active rust and creating a surface that accepts primer more effectively than bare metal alone. Corroseal is an equivalent alternative used on projects with heavier pitting.
Step 4 - DTM Primer and Finish Coat Application. Sherwin-Williams DTM rust-inhibitive primer was applied across all prepared surfaces. Two topcoats of Rust-Oleum DTM in satin black followed after full primer cure. DTM finish coats add a second corrosion-inhibiting layer and provide the UV and weather resistance needed for Chicago exterior iron work.
CHICAGO-SPECIFIC CHALLENGES
Chicago iron fencing faces conditions that accelerate corrosion faster than most US markets. Lake humidity keeps metal surface moisture elevated through much of the year. Road salt splash from winter maintenance reaches fencing along parkways and sidewalk edges, introducing chlorides that aggressively attack iron. Freeze-thaw cycles expand any rust pocket that has formed under paint, lifting coatings from the inside and creating the classic bubbled-paint appearance homeowners notice every spring.
WHAT TO EXPECT LONG-TERM
With Ospho conversion, DTM primer, and two DTM finish coats properly applied over mechanically prepared surfaces, most Chicago residential iron fences hold 5-8 years before needing significant touch-up. Annual visual inspection for any chips or bare spots, with immediate touch-up using Rust-Oleum DTM, extends that window considerably.
PRO TIPS
Tip 1 - Address any bare metal spot the same season you notice it. A pinhole of exposed iron becomes a rust bubble within one Chicago winter and a flaking section by the following spring.
Tip 2 - Never paint over active rust without a converter step. Ospho or Corroseal is inexpensive insurance against a complete repaint two years early.
Tip 3 - Check picket bases at grade level every spring. Ground contact accelerates corrosion at the base faster than anywhere else on the fence. Catching it early keeps welding out of the equation.
Contact Windy City Painters at windypainters.com for a project estimate.
FAQ
Q: What does iron fence painting cost in Chicago? A: Residential iron fence painting with proper rust prep typically runs $300-$900 for standard lot footage. Windy City Painters provides itemized estimates based on linear footage, rust severity, and whether structural welding is required before surface preparation begins.
Q: Do you paint over rust or remove it first? A: Windy City Painters always addresses active rust before priming. Ospho or Corroseal rust converter chemically neutralizes iron oxide, and wire wheel grinding removes loose scale - coating over unaddressed rust guarantees early failure on Chicago iron fences.
Q: When does an iron fence need welding before painting? A: Loose pickets, cracked rails, or connections with visible movement require welding before any coating work begins. Paint cannot stabilize a structural joint - Windy City Painters coordinates with welders when this condition is identified during initial assessment.
Q: How long does iron fence paint last in Chicago? A: With mechanical prep, Ospho conversion, and Sherwin-Williams or Rust-Oleum DTM coatings, properly restored iron fencing holds 5-8 years in Chicago's freeze-thaw climate before needing significant maintenance.
Q: Is Ospho better than Corroseal for Chicago iron fences? A: Both are effective rust converters. Ospho is a liquid phosphoric acid treatment suited for moderate rust and pitting. Corroseal is a latex-based converter-primer hybrid better suited to heavier rust profiles. Windy City Painters selects based on site conditions.
Q: What finish sheen works best on iron fencing? A: Satin or semi-gloss black is the traditional and most durable choice for Chicago greystone and brownstone properties. Satin hides minor surface imperfections better than gloss while still providing adequate UV and moisture resistance.
Q: Can iron fence painting be done in spring or fall in Chicago? A: Yes. Windy City Painters schedules iron fence work in temperatures above 50 degrees Fahrenheit with low ambient humidity - spring and early fall are often ideal windows that avoid both winter cold and peak summer humidity.

This Bonita Springs home, nestled in the golf course community of Bonita Bay, had never been renovated and lacked sufficient space to accommodate these homeowners’ needs. Working initially with preliminary drawings provided by their daughter who is a licensed architect, Progressive Design Build helped the homeowners establish a preliminary budget and set a construction schedule. Once the couple knew what they wanted and had a design brief in hand, they set about creating a new, traditional and functional room addition. Progressive Design Build teamed up with the architect to produce a final set of working drawings.
The house addition consisted of a new master bedroom and master bathroom with vaulted ceilings, built-in cabinetry, and porcelain tile floors. To improve indoor/outdoor flow, Progressive Deign Build also renovated the homeowner’s pool deck.
Upon project completion, this project received top honors for remodeling excellence from the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI), receiving a Contractor of the Year (CotY) award.
One of the major challenges, other than a very limited lot size, was the threat of a massive hurricane during construction. Construction had to cease for over a week to ensure that there was no damage to the home, property or adjacent properties. Due to the inclement weather situations, the project went two weeks over the estimated time frame.
Since completion, Progressive Design Build designed and built two other remodeling projects for this southwest Florida homeowner.

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This Bonita Springs home, nestled in the golf course community of Bonita Bay, had never been renovated and lacked sufficient space to accommodate these homeowners’ needs. Working initially with preliminary drawings provided by their daughter who is a licensed architect, Progressive Design Build helped the homeowners establish a preliminary budget and set a construction schedule. Once the couple knew what they wanted and had a design brief in hand, they set about creating a new, traditional and functional room addition. Progressive Design Build teamed up with the architect to produce a final set of working drawings.
The house addition consisted of a new master bedroom and master bathroom with vaulted ceilings, built-in cabinetry, and porcelain tile floors. To improve indoor/outdoor flow, Progressive Deign Build also renovated the homeowner’s pool deck.
Upon project completion, this project received top honors for remodeling excellence from the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI), receiving a Contractor of the Year (CotY) award.
One of the major challenges, other than a very limited lot size, was the threat of a massive hurricane during construction. Construction had to cease for over a week to ensure that there was no damage to the home, property or adjacent properties. Due to the inclement weather situations, the project went two weeks over the estimated time frame.
Since completion, Progressive Design Build designed and built two other remodeling projects for this southwest Florida homeowner.

Located in the heart of Montreal, Binôme is an architectural urban densification project built by Modulor. Composed of two distinct buildings connected by an inner courtyard, this new five-unit development stands out through its unique layout, architecture, and exceptional attention to detail. The construction required rigorous planning and precise technical execution, particularly due to major excavation work and underpinning of adjacent buildings. Such interventions in a dense urban environment demand specialized expertise and tight project management at every phase of the build.
Conceived as an income-generating property, the clients benefited from our strategic support to ensure the profitability, efficiency, and optimization of their investment. Modulor worked closely with the team at Appareil Architecture to bring to life a project of high architectural integrity.
Binôme’s architecture draws inspiration from the area's industrial past: clean volumes, red brick, generous openings reminiscent of former workshops, and elegant brick colonnades form a refined and cohesive ensemble. The central courtyard, designed as a luminous and welcoming shared space, becomes the vibrant heart of the project. A colorful metal staircase, crafted by Atomic Soudure, connects both buildings and adds a distinctive, curated touch.
As a finalist for the 2025 Ordre des architectes du Québec Awards of Excellence, Binôme stands as a model of successful urban revitalization. It illustrates how thoughtful, well-executed construction can elevate Montreal’s built environment while addressing today’s densification challenges.

Five stars isn’t enough! Our project was to reconfigure and update the main floor of a house we recently purchased that was built in 1961. We wanted to maintain some of the unique feeling it originally had but bring it up-to-date and eliminate the closed-in rooms and downright weird layout that was the result of multiple, partial remodeling projects. We began with a long wishlist of changes which also required replacement of very antiquated plumbing, electrical wiring and HVAC. We even found a fireplace that had been walled in and needed major re-construction. Many other aspects and details on this incredible list we made included an all new kitchen layout, converting a bedroom into a master closet, adding new half-bath, completely rebuilding the master bath, and adding stone, tile and custom built cabinetry. Our design plans included many fixtures and details that we specified and required professional installation and careful handling. Innovative helped us make reasonable decisions. Their skilled staff took us through a design process that made sense. There were many questions and all were answered with sincere conversation and positive – innovation – on how we could achieve our goals. Innovative provided us with professional consultants, who listened and were courteous and creative, with solid knowledge and informative judgement. When they didn’t have an answer, they did the research. They developed a comprehensive project plan that exceeded our expectations. Every item on our long list was checked-off. All agreed on work was fulfilled and they completed all this in just under four months. Innovative took care of putting together a team of skilled professional specialists who were all dedicated to make everything right. Engineering, construction, supervision, and I cannot even begin to describe how much thanks we have for the demolition crew! Our multiple, detailed project designs from Raul and professional design advice from Mindy and the connections she recommended are all of the best quality. Diego Jr., Trevor and his team kept everything on track and neat and tidy every single day and Diego Sr., Mark, Ismael, Albert, Santiago and team are true craftsmen who follow-up and make the most minuscule woodworking details perfect. The cabinets by Tim and electrical work and installation of fixtures by Kemchan Harrilal-BB and Navindra Doolratram, and Augustine and his crew on tile and stone work – all perfection. Aisling and the office crew were always responsive to our calls and requests. And of course Clark and Eric who oversaw everything and gave us the best of the best! Apologies if we didn’t get everyone on this list – you’re all great! Thank you for your hard work and dedication. We can’t thank you enough Innovative Construction – we kind of want to do it again!
Dave Hallman & Matt DeGraffenreid

"When we bought our house in Poway 11 years ago, we were so happy with our huge master bath and Jacuzzi tub. It was such a huge step-up from our prior home. But just like the rest of the house, the master bath was already almost 20 years old and getting out dated and in need of remodeling. We broke up our remodeling projects into every couple of years, doing what we could ourselves and hiring out for the rest. The master bath was the last project and much too big for us to do on our own. We got 3 quotes from 3 contractors listed on Angie’s list which all had good reviews. One was a major re modeler and the other two were smaller contractors. We ended up going with TaylorPro because he was right in the middle and had great reviews.
Kerry was very responsive getting us a timely estimate and had great suggestions for what we were looking for. From the start to finish it turned out to be a wonderful experience! To our delight, they were able to get started ahead of what we were told. Everything went almost as scheduled and we were informed constantly on where we were in the project. Kerry was very responsive to all our concerns or requests and we were never left wondering what the next step would be. His crew was wonderful, so polite and hard working. They were very professional, on time, considerate and knew exactly what they were doing.
There were certain things we were really looking for in the remodel. First off, the bathroom was pretty large with a high ceiling. In the winter months, it was always really cold and hard to heat. To solve that we had TaylorPro install heated flooring beneath the travertine tiles. We also needed a custom vanity that would conceal hair appliances, most of our personal toiletries and have enough storage for everything else. The cabinetry was custom designed to exactly what we were looking for. Lastly, we wanted a classic, timeless look using tumbled travertine. After consulting with his designer we were able to select all the tile, accent tile and a beautiful frameless glass shower enclosure.
The finished project was beyond our highest expectations and we won’t hesitate to use Kerry and his crew for any future jobs or recommend him to family and friends."
~ Mark and Amy B, Clients
Frameless shower door, glass tile with rope border, dark and light travertine tiles on walls, travertine on floor, heated floor by NuHeat, tub and sinks by Kohler, shower/tub/vanity fixtures Hansgrohe, toilet Toto, custom cabinets by Thead Custom Cabinetry.
Photo by Kerry W. Taylor

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Fredericksburg, OH
High Point Cabinets
Columbus' Experienced Custom Cabinet Builder | 4x Best of Houzz Winner

Five stars isn’t enough! Our project was to reconfigure and update the main floor of a house we recently purchased that was built in 1961. We wanted to maintain some of the unique feeling it originally had but bring it up-to-date and eliminate the closed-in rooms and downright weird layout that was the result of multiple, partial remodeling projects. We began with a long wishlist of changes which also required replacement of very antiquated plumbing, electrical wiring and HVAC. We even found a fireplace that had been walled in and needed major re-construction. Many other aspects and details on this incredible list we made included an all new kitchen layout, converting a bedroom into a master closet, adding new half-bath, completely rebuilding the master bath, and adding stone, tile and custom built cabinetry. Our design plans included many fixtures and details that we specified and required professional installation and careful handling. Innovative helped us make reasonable decisions. Their skilled staff took us through a design process that made sense. There were many questions and all were answered with sincere conversation and positive – innovation – on how we could achieve our goals. Innovative provided us with professional consultants, who listened and were courteous and creative, with solid knowledge and informative judgement. When they didn’t have an answer, they did the research. They developed a comprehensive project plan that exceeded our expectations. Every item on our long list was checked-off. All agreed on work was fulfilled and they completed all this in just under four months. Innovative took care of putting together a team of skilled professional specialists who were all dedicated to make everything right. Engineering, construction, supervision, and I cannot even begin to describe how much thanks we have for the demolition crew! Our multiple, detailed project designs from Raul and professional design advice from Mindy and the connections she recommended are all of the best quality. Diego Jr., Trevor and his team kept everything on track and neat and tidy every single day and Diego Sr., Mark, Ismael, Albert, Santiago and team are true craftsmen who follow-up and make the most minuscule woodworking details perfect. The cabinets by Tim and electrical work and installation of fixtures by Kemchan Harrilal-BB and Navindra Doolratram, and Augustine and his crew on tile and stone work – all perfection. Aisling and the office crew were always responsive to our calls and requests. And of course Clark and Eric who oversaw everything and gave us the best of the best! Apologies if we didn’t get everyone on this list – you’re all great! Thank you for your hard work and dedication. We can’t thank you enough Innovative Construction – we kind of want to do it again!
Dave Hallman & Matt DeGraffenreid

Five stars isn’t enough! Our project was to reconfigure and update the main floor of a house we recently purchased that was built in 1961. We wanted to maintain some of the unique feeling it originally had but bring it up-to-date and eliminate the closed-in rooms and downright weird layout that was the result of multiple, partial remodeling projects. We began with a long wishlist of changes which also required replacement of very antiquated plumbing, electrical wiring and HVAC. We even found a fireplace that had been walled in and needed major re-construction. Many other aspects and details on this incredible list we made included an all new kitchen layout, converting a bedroom into a master closet, adding new half-bath, completely rebuilding the master bath, and adding stone, tile and custom built cabinetry. Our design plans included many fixtures and details that we specified and required professional installation and careful handling. Innovative helped us make reasonable decisions. Their skilled staff took us through a design process that made sense. There were many questions and all were answered with sincere conversation and positive – innovation – on how we could achieve our goals. Innovative provided us with professional consultants, who listened and were courteous and creative, with solid knowledge and informative judgement. When they didn’t have an answer, they did the research. They developed a comprehensive project plan that exceeded our expectations. Every item on our long list was checked-off. All agreed on work was fulfilled and they completed all this in just under four months. Innovative took care of putting together a team of skilled professional specialists who were all dedicated to make everything right. Engineering, construction, supervision, and I cannot even begin to describe how much thanks we have for the demolition crew! Our multiple, detailed project designs from Raul and professional design advice from Mindy and the connections she recommended are all of the best quality. Diego Jr., Trevor and his team kept everything on track and neat and tidy every single day and Diego Sr., Mark, Ismael, Albert, Santiago and team are true craftsmen who follow-up and make the most minuscule woodworking details perfect. The cabinets by Tim and electrical work and installation of fixtures by Kemchan Harrilal-BB and Navindra Doolratram, and Augustine and his crew on tile and stone work – all perfection. Aisling and the office crew were always responsive to our calls and requests. And of course Clark and Eric who oversaw everything and gave us the best of the best! Apologies if we didn’t get everyone on this list – you’re all great! Thank you for your hard work and dedication. We can’t thank you enough Innovative Construction – we kind of want to do it again!
Dave Hallman & Matt DeGraffenreid

Five stars isn’t enough! Our project was to reconfigure and update the main floor of a house we recently purchased that was built in 1961. We wanted to maintain some of the unique feeling it originally had but bring it up-to-date and eliminate the closed-in rooms and downright weird layout that was the result of multiple, partial remodeling projects. We began with a long wishlist of changes which also required replacement of very antiquated plumbing, electrical wiring and HVAC. We even found a fireplace that had been walled in and needed major re-construction. Many other aspects and details on this incredible list we made included an all new kitchen layout, converting a bedroom into a master closet, adding new half-bath, completely rebuilding the master bath, and adding stone, tile and custom built cabinetry. Our design plans included many fixtures and details that we specified and required professional installation and careful handling. Innovative helped us make reasonable decisions. Their skilled staff took us through a design process that made sense. There were many questions and all were answered with sincere conversation and positive – innovation – on how we could achieve our goals. Innovative provided us with professional consultants, who listened and were courteous and creative, with solid knowledge and informative judgement. When they didn’t have an answer, they did the research. They developed a comprehensive project plan that exceeded our expectations. Every item on our long list was checked-off. All agreed on work was fulfilled and they completed all this in just under four months. Innovative took care of putting together a team of skilled professional specialists who were all dedicated to make everything right. Engineering, construction, supervision, and I cannot even begin to describe how much thanks we have for the demolition crew! Our multiple, detailed project designs from Raul and professional design advice from Mindy and the connections she recommended are all of the best quality. Diego Jr., Trevor and his team kept everything on track and neat and tidy every single day and Diego Sr., Mark, Ismael, Albert, Santiago and team are true craftsmen who follow-up and make the most minuscule woodworking details perfect. The cabinets by Tim and electrical work and installation of fixtures by Kemchan Harrilal-BB and Navindra Doolratram, and Augustine and his crew on tile and stone work – all perfection. Aisling and the office crew were always responsive to our calls and requests. And of course Clark and Eric who oversaw everything and gave us the best of the best! Apologies if we didn’t get everyone on this list – you’re all great! Thank you for your hard work and dedication. We can’t thank you enough Innovative Construction – we kind of want to do it again!
Dave Hallman & Matt DeGraffenreid
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