2008 COTY Award

Special Thanks to homeowners Carmen & Tanya!

According to NARI (National Association of the Remodeling Industry, the Contractor of the Year (CotY) awards are given each year to members who have demonstrated outstanding work through their remodeling projects.

NARI states that entries are judged on their use of craftsmanship, problem solving, aesthetics and innovation. Thus, this truly is an honor to have received this award and we include all of you, our loyal clients, in this accomplishment. We couldn’t do it without you!

Special Thanks to homeowners Carmen & Tanya!

PROJECT DESCRIPTION

A young couple with a two-year-old daughter was desperately seeking an update to their 1970s kitchen and dining room. The existing space was primarily closed-off on three sides and boxed-in by adjoining walls. Lacking openness, ease of cooking, storage, and the ability to entertain, they were ready for a complete kitchen-area remodel and wanted to incorporate green elements into the design.To meet the clients’ needs, removing the walls surrounding the kitchen was the very first step. The walls had only two small entrances from the main living and dining areas and created a safety hazard for their toddler due to limited visibility. By resituating the dining table at the end of the island, which also serves as the primary cooking and food preparation area, the new kitchen is open and airy with plenty of room to supervise a child as meals are made. The space is more child-friendly and allows a busy stay-at-home mom a little more peace-of-mind and a beautiful environment in which to multi-task.With three rooms blended into one, the kitchen retains its definition by framing the space in rich Cordova with Ebony Glazed cabinetry. Showplace Lyptus cabinets are made of environmentally conscious materials and meet the couple’s desire to incorporate green design. Florida Livingston in taupe tile in the kitchen and dining area beautifully transition to the existing floor of the living room.The new openness also accommodates much needed elbow space with two cooks in the house. Long Staron countertops in Quarry Mesa and the redesigned open layout now provide ample room for both parent-chefs. The countertop material features a non-porous surface and is easy to keep clean. General and modern-deco pendant ELK lighting installed above the island highlights its multi-functionality. As the primary segue between the kitchen and living area, the twenty-four square foot island houses the range in the kitchen and serves as a bar area in the living room.Then for much needed storage and organization, a tall pantry with easy access roll-out trays was installed. With the added space and tucked-away details, the couple is able to purchase items in bulk to keep their pantry stocked. In addition, a roll-out garbage cabinet replaced the trash bin that once sat out on the kitchen floor.

CHALLENGES

Relocating appliances was a challenge. The GE refrigerator and microwave installed in what was formerly the dining room required new plumbing and re-wiring. Taking into consideration what created the most ease of use and aesthetic enhancement, the GE dishwasher was moved to the left side of the sink from the right, placing it across from the range creating balance and symmetry.Having a small child in the house during the remodeling project was at times an obstacle. Our team worked diligently to be mindful of eating, sleeping and playing times while adhering to our established schedule.

ACCOMPLISHMENTS

The new open space liberated this home from its dated, box-like construction and design. Free of limiting walls, the redesigned space seamlessly blends the kitchen, living room and dining room. With the kitchen open to the rest of the space, birthday parties and holiday get-togethers are now possible as the couple can comfortably entertain sixteen guests. Also, a new island with a tiered design embraces form and function by shielding the range from view of the living area. The space is now open and inviting for guests and chefs while adding much needed visibility for the love and care of a small child.