Denys Builds Designs

After years of hiring Paul Denys for different building contract, I have no hesitation to recommend him. I totally trust his skills and artistry. Always calm and diplomat, his work approaches perfection. Because perfection in old buildings is impossible, otherwise.

excellent professional work done in a timely manner. Especially appreciated care to retain traditional character of our home. We enjoyed the experience.

I was very close to undertaking a complete window replacement of my 120-year-old windows when someone recommended that I speak to Paul Denys about restoration. Because my top requirement was maintaining the character of my home, I decided to go ahead with the restoration after consulting with Paul, and doing some research on restoration vs. replacement. In hindsight, I am extremely happy with my decision, and I am extremely happy I found Paul. Denys Builds Designs are true craftsmen. Their workmanship is superb. Paul's knowledge of building science is deep. Now my 120-year-old windows look and function like new. I am also very pleased with their thermal performance in my first winter with them. There is no way I could have reproduced the beauty or character of my original windows had I replaced them. I also know my restored windows will last for the rest of my lifetime (and then some). I wouldn't hesitate to recommend Denys Builds Designs, whether it is for a restoration project or any other type of build or renovation.

We hired Paul to renovate our tiny bathroom, but we also wanted a longer tub. Paul was the only contractor that we spoke to who took the time to research and suggest the appropriate products for us to choose from. We ended up splurging a bit (since this is our only full bathroom in the house, and wanted it to be really nice) and added things like a heated towel rail and underfloor heating - which is super nice now the cold weather has arrived. Paul pays extremely close attention to detail and certainly doesn't cut corners (in fact I'd say he's a bit of a perfectionist). We chose a rather 'challenging' tile option - lots of long narrow tiles from floor to ceiling. He measured multiple times and layed out the tiles, and levelled the floor & ceiling all around (which definitely were not level to start with), to make sure that there were a whole number of tiles that just fit. The result is spectacular and I'm sure could have looked awful if a cheaper contractor without that level of care had done it. We also had regular check ins each day to review progress and go over any design choices / questions.

Paul did a relatively small job for us, but he did it with great care and skill: He replaced the intricate wood cladding that, for 20+ years, had surrounded the large bay window on the front of our house and was in serious need of professional help. We chose Paul to do the work because we were impressed with his expertise in heritage restoration and repair. We were absolutely delighted with the final result and the process that got us there. He explained the nature, cause and scope of the problems and presented a range of options for us to consider, from cosmetic repairs to a complete re-build using more up-to-date construction materials and techniques. We opted for a thorough re-build and redesign. (Fortunately, he was able to replace the rotting sill on one of the casement windows—something a manufacturer’s rep had told us was “not possible”—sparing us the cost of new ones. To our amazement and delight, the window now looks and operates as good as new. His skills as a carpenter are impressive, to say the least.) The original cladding included panels of tongue-and-groove boards and lots of vertical and horizontal joints where moisture could intrude. Paul’s new design is cleaner, more contemporary and much less susceptible to moisture, while remaining appropriate to the age and style of the house. We love it. We appreciate the fact that Paul showed us what he was doing—and the materials he was using—at key points in the construction process. As a result, we know what lies beneath the handsome new façade and have complete confidence in its quality and durability. We also appreciate that he completed the work on schedule and within his original cost estimate. The bottom line: We would highly recommend Paul for any work requiring the skills and expertise he brought to this project.

Paul Denys helped us with our attic reno. From design to implementation and execution, Paul was first rate during the whole process. For any of our future house renos, he would most certainly be considered. His knowledge and professionalism inspire confidence that a project will be done right.

Paul has done several small projects and a major renovation over the past 20 years. He is reliable and respectful of the household and his work is outstanding. I would highly recommend Paul for any renovation project.

We engaged Paul to redo the kitchen in our 55 year old home. He started and completed the project on time which is not the case with the contractors whom other friends have used. He completely removed our old kitchen and was careful in doing so that we were able to donate it to Habitat For Humanity and get a tax receipt for a charitable donation! His speedy but meticulous work meant that all was done on time when the kitchen cabinetry was delivered. Paul not only does the work but can provide remodelling and decorating advice. we benefited from that great mix of skills as some of what we had planned would not have worked and he was quick to suggest acceptable solutions. Without question, we will use Paul for any future renovations.

I'd highly recommend Denys Builds Designs for high quality renos. We went from a fifties bathroom with shower curtain to a dream setup with walk-in shower and heated floor. Perfect work.

Paul Denys and his assistant provided excellent work for a roof repair job that turned into an entire rebuild. External support (structural engineer and insulation contractor) were scheduled and organized by Paul without a hitch. Paul was patient and very adaptable especially when the neighbour decided at the last minute to complete his portion of the roof work on his own. Paul and his staff were never idle and ensured that each job, large or small, were done to exacting detail. Paul was always on time and provided updates, as necessary. I tend to have a lot of questions and Paul was always very happy to share his knowledge on building sciences and provide recommendations. It was great to work with someone who takes pride in every aspect of their work. I will definitely have Paul work on future projects for the house and I highly recommend him to anyone looking to have work done on their house.

I had the extremely great pleasure of working with Paul Denys and his assistant Adam, when restoration services were required on both the verandah and upper balcony on my 116 year old Victorian home. Because the property has been the recipient of a heritage award, only carpentry services of the highest order were mandated to maintain its historic integrity. Paul certainly did not disappoint. Prior to any construction, he patiently reviewed at length the methodology he would enact to ensure the deliverable would meet all client expectations.The project was completed on schedule, at the exact price quoted and the work was impeccable.The site was left in a meticulous manner at the conclusion of each work day which eliminated the disruption that traditionally accompanies most construction projects. Without question, Paul Denys ranks among the elite of his profession and I would recommend his services without reservation.

Paul Denys has done two substantial jobs for me at my home. The most recent in June 2015 involved a complete rebuild of our front porch keeping it in character with our 1940s house in the Civic Hospital area . The job was done on time and on budget and we are very satisfied with the workmanship. Since then I have consulted Paul on some other projects, such as weather stripping our wood frame casement windows. He has been very thorough in his explanations of what can be done and at what cost. I feel that you are in good hands with Paul Denys and would recommend him highly to anyone