Drab to Fab Remodel Contest

Our client's goals were perfectly aligned with our vision and expertise when we were asked to collaborate on a significant remodel of their single-family residence. The previous look was that of a plain, yet typical colonial two story home in the heart of Johnston, IA. We constructed a structural entry roof above the front door and covered it with a standing seam Image II metal roof. That gave us a focal point to work from on the front elevation. We were then able to use the existing windows and doors of the home and transform them into dynamic peripheral points, highlighted by Fypon crossheads and shutters. In addition, the entire home was resided with James Hardie Cedarmill lap siding, which gives this look the durability that it deserves. The homeowners color pallet was used to tie in the features of the roof and the existing natural surroundings.

View more examples of work from Brad Van Weelden Company on their Guildmember Profile Page.

This Nashville Home located in Belle Meade was partially demolished upon our arrival. The demolition was completed, walls were raised from 8' to 9' and a second level was added. Two small additions were made, both on the backside. Swooped tails were given to roof structure and now provide support for the 6" half round copper gutters. The turret is a beautiful focal point and is veneered in Arcustone, a product that also cases the doors and windows. The interior boasts many different finishes and an elegant triple groin vault ceiling. Red Oak floors run throughout the home except in the bathrooms which feature Italian marble. In the kitchen you will find custom cabinetry with antique glazing as well as Revelle counter tops and a gorgeous island with a hand crafted wooden farmhouse top. The backyard is a pristine garden that houses a hand built fountain featuring a bronze statue.

View more examples of work from Broderick Builders on their Guildmember Profile Page.

This remodel for a retired couple in Sea Cliff reconfigures the two most used areas of the house; the kitchen and master bedroom. The eat-in kitchen gains functionality and flow by relocating the laundry and powder rooms. This also generates the opportunity for vast improvement in day lighting as well as connection to the backyard. The relocation of the master suite relies on conversion of a windowless hallway/closet into master bath. The potential claustrophobia of this room is overcome by an irregular geometry, judicious use of glass and mirrors and detailing of the skylight to maximize available light. Simple removal of a doorway refines en-suite continuity with the bedroom.

View more examples of work from Building Lab on their Guildmember Profile Page.

After purchasing the house, this couple knew that they wanted to make significant changes to the home before moving in; changes included cosmetic changes, but also significant remodeling to allow them to age in the home. Since the home was built in the late 1970's, many of the doors had to be widened and the entire house was remodeled with the thought of possibly using a wheelchair or walker. The homeowners were also very interested in mixing contemporary and mid-century modern looks while maintaining some of the 70's architecture of the home. The master bath was a separate his and her vanity with shower and toilet closet in the middle. The home's systems and finishes are completely updated, along with the design and the homeowner's couldn't be happier, even their friend that is in a wheelchair is able to visit them now!

View more examples of work from Curb Appeal Renovations on their Guildmember Profile Page.

This design/build project encompassed a whole house remodel and second story master suite addition. The homeowner, a high-profile sports network director, wanted a home that was eclectic and reflected her personality, while still creating a comfortable and inviting space for her to use and entertain guests.

Part of the challenge of this project was incorporating the many modern conveniences the homeowner desired into the space, while maintaining the eclectic balance between the ultra-modern and rustic aesthetic carried throughout her oceanfront Mediterranean home.

Using antique reclaimed pieces throughout the home, along with faux painting techniques on the walls to mimic the look of Venetian plaster, the hand-crafted elements that the client wanted were successfully incorporated into the living space. At the same time, elements such as custom glass, stainless steel cabinetry and sleek appliances such as a built-in espresso machine lend the space an ultra-modern feel.

View more examples of work from Custom Design & Construction on their Guildmember Profile Page.

This was an extensive remodel that involved upgrading the entire exterior of the home. The windows were replaced with triple pane windows that give the house a more modern look and are energy efficient to save the homeowners money. The siding was replaced and upgraded to insulated siding in Vintage Wicker. The new siding is also a high quality product while also being energy efficient. The front door was replaced with a whole new entry system beautifully complimenting the streamlined windows and new siding. Lastly, the entry way was transformed with stone for a look that is guaranteed to stand out from the rest of the houses in this suburban neighborhood in Illinois. But mostly importantly, the homeowners were very pleased with the remodel, saying "We are very happy! We are very satisfied with the finished product. Everything was beautiful."

View more examples of work from Elite Remodeling Group on their Guildmember Profile Page.

The roof over the garage had to be raised. This allowed there to be a master suite large enough for a sitting area as well as a grand walk in closet with custom cabinetry and a very luxurious master bath. The master suite remodel employs a slider door to the balcony that overlooks a stunning view of the pool and backyard.

The old kitchen had cream colored builder grade cabinets. It was originally in the very front and was redesigned and relocated to the back of the home. Corner windows are an enhanced feature to overlook the backyard. A large uniquely shaped island commands the on lookers' attention upon entering the kitchen. The tall ceilings with state-of-the-art cherry cabinets give the whole kitchen the overall wow factor.

The stone fireplace, dual-toned stairway and enchanting front door were the extra little touches that made this home a dream come true.

View more examples of work from G.M. Roth Design & Remodeling on their Guildmember Profile Page.

By completely relocating the kitchen and adding 1000 square feet, Glazer created space for a large island and a second serving counter and bar. The natural light given from two sets of French doors and a large window in the living room highlights the new architectural elements including the stone fireplace, with shelves for storage and coffered ceiling. These windows also provide a view of the new porch that wraps around the entire back of the house overlooking the pool, replacing an unused staircase and screened in porch. The homeowners requested a separate side entrance for clients to enter their home office and an iron spiral staircase was the solution. Along with another set of French doors into the garage, an overhang, and Carriage Garage doors, the side of the house receives a facelift. The front of the house also receives an upgraded with new doors and a stone facade.

View more examples of work from Glazer Design & Construction on their Guildmember Profile Page.

The home was destroyed in a chimney fire during the 2009 holiday season. Primary damage was to the Flat roof and the front half of the home (main level living and dining rooms and upper level master suite). Clients wanted to remodel their kitchen anyways and rolled that into the project. During the assessment of the damage, it came to light that there was some existing structural damage as well in the home that was unrelated to the fire. By the end of design, every inch of the house was to be remodeled by Kingston including all new wood flooring, lighting plan, trimwork/millwork, and paint throughout the entire home. Much of the client's artwork, collected primarily from travels to Brazil, was to be taken into account for added lighting needs. Project was completed in the early spring of 2011.

View more examples of work from Kingston Design Remodeling on their Guildmember Profile Page.

The owner of this 1922 American Craftsman Style house hired us with a request to renovate her kitchen and downstairs bath with a possible replacement of the siding and repairs to the front porch. She had lived in the house for 38 years and during that time had become handicapped-dependent on a walker or wheelchair for mobility, so her home also needed to be made ADA compliant. The house had been neglected and not updated or remodeled for many years.

The project grew considerably in scope-to include not only the kitchen and downstairs bath, but the addition of an eat-in breakfast room area with banquette, and a 15' x 20' deck off of the kitchen with a ramp for access to the house, the dining room, upstairs bath, replacement of the exterior roof and siding, insulation, new heating and air conditioning, repairs to the porch and landscaping.

View more examples of work from Landis Construction on their Guildmember Profile Page.

The owners were looking for a retirement property with a view of surrounding vineyards. After a long, fruitless search, they were coming to terms with the prospect of looking out of state when they happened across this long-neglected kiwi orchard. The owners, one being an amateur winemaker, decided to purchase this property and plant their own pinot vineyards.

The existing house, though, had to go. It was so funky that they couldn't imagine restoring it successfully to be the kind of home they longed for. After listening to the owners, we suggested that a remodel would have benefits including saving energy, reducing cost, reusing the existing structure and eliminating the need to send debris to a landfill.

The house is all electric, and with the planned addition of a photovoltaic system, the energy costs are expected to be close to zero.

View more examples of work from Leff Construction on their Guildmember Profile Page.

They say that enhancing the curb appeal can increase your home's resale value. That statement could not be truer for this 1940's Gainesville, Georgia home. This old house was home to the Orr family who operated a saw mill in the back of the property. The home burned and was rebuilt in 1968. North Georgia Replacement Windows (NGRW) recently revitalized this 1960's three bedroom farm house which originally housed 11 kids with no bathroom! It wasn't until NGRW got involved with the remodel until any heating and air conditioning was added. NGRW beautified the home with new maintenance free windows, doors and insulated siding. The end result created a beautiful, energy efficient and maintenance free house that anyone would be proud to call home!

View more examples of work from North Georgia Replacement Windows on their Guildmember Profile Page.

The goal of this house remodel was to provide the homeowners with a combination of luxury, comfort, and functionality in the entertaining and private areas of their home. After going over their wish list (an open floor plan, room in the kitchen for a nine foot table, and a large master bath), it was decided more space was necessary. The NVS team put a nine foot addition onto the kitchen that included a new composite deck as well as an elevated pier addition off of the master bed and bath. The house now boasts an enlarged living space with a vaulted ceiling, a stunning modern kitchen, additional space in the bedroom, and a spa-like master bath.

View more examples of work from NVS Remodeling & Design on their Guildmember Profile Page.

When the homeowners approached Phillip W Smith, GC, Inc. their feeling was they were buying the Lot. The house was a tear down. They could not see they had a diamond in the rough. However, Phil's team saw its' potential. The interior was brightened and updated by resurfacing cabinetry, adding light fixtures, new backsplash and granite countertops, a new cook top, completely gutting the master bath and painting the walls and brick fireplace white. The exterior siding was changed and painted and the railings and rear stairs were replaced. The new staircase adds ease of access to the backyard. While a screened in lower porch provides a place for a ping pong table and surfboard storage. Along with various other updates, the outdated home went from drab-to-fab with very pleased homeowners that see a house they will live in for a long time to come.

View more examples of work from Phillip W. Smith General Contractor, Inc. on their Guildmember Profile Page.

This 100-year-old barn had been in the family for four generations. Instead of leveling it and re-building, our clients brought it back to life as not only a cozy retreat, but as their sanctuary for inspiration.

The home/ art studio's walls were built around the existing barn walls for improved energy efficiency. Ceilings followed the original structure's form and beams were refinished and left exposed to keep the barn feeling inside. The original hay bale fork and trolley system even remain operable at the peak of the home's ceiling.

Along with its truly Great Room, the home offers a main-level bedroom, bathroom and kitchen, as well as bedroom in the loft. Brazilian Cherry flooring and cherry finished pine tongue and groove paneling add richness and beauty to the barn's interior. Custom-milled siding was finished with a distinct Buttercup colored paint to bring back the early 1900's look.

View more examples of work from Stebnitz Builders on their Guildmember Profile Page.

The 1st and 2nd floor living area of this 1996 vintage home on Wadmalaw Island were totally gutted and renovated in 2011, creating a dramatic new Great Room space with added paneling, a coffered ceiling and bold new fireplace surrounds. The second floor Master Suite and home office were updated in a new contemporary style. A new single story kitchen wing with fireplace sitting area/breakfast nook was added to the right side of the home, connected with the existing house by a charming and well-lit keeping and sitting area. Below the kitchen, a tabby stucco and brick-paved outdoor gathering area was created with a grand new fireplace and lovely stone courtyard. On the left side, a two-story addition was added with a home theatre on the main level and an exercise room on the floor above. Renovated by Terry Hoff Construction, Inc. and Designed by Beau Clowney Design.

View more examples of work from Terry W. Hoff Construction on their Guildmember Profile Page.

This is a 1977 ranch style lake home that was remodeled to embody a Michigan lake home for the owners, who reside in Texas. The walls separating the kitchen, dining room, and the wall surrounding the stairway, were removed. The lake is now in view from every public room in the house. The existing roof structure was reworked to create a tray ceiling in the living and dining areas. Both home owners are geologists and the natural materials selected throughout, add visual interest and personal meaning to their vacation home.

View more examples of work from Thompson Remodeling on their Guildmember Profile Page.

The redesigned home brought the "outdoors in" with the open and airy living spaces. In addition to the beautiful finishes, we were able to exceed their expectation of the home renovation by the craftsmanship, quality, efficiency and durability they said exceeded their current beautiful N.C. home.

This 5 bedroom 4 bath home grew to a 6 bedroom and 6.5 bath which includes a cute custom bunk room, 1st and 2nd floor master suites overlooking the ocean and 5 of the 6 bedrooms are ensuites. The original ceiling height was 8' and we were able to bring it close to 9' in the main living areas. What were once dark and closed in spaces were transformed into incredible sitting rooms, exterior entertaining porches and a dining area that seats sixteen with beautiful wood wainscoting all throughout.

View more examples of work from Structures Building Company on their Guildmember Profile Page.

This 1920's Craftsman bungalow was discovered in a somewhat neglected state and the original charming architectural details were somewhat lost in a sea of white paint. The home was a series of small rooms, each dark and closed off from each other, which was not conducive to modern lifestyles or entertaining.

The objective was to maintain sensitivity to the home's original style while adding modern conveniences. The floor plan was altered, opening up the living spaces and making the home feel larger. The living room, dining room and kitchen were converted into a free-flowing configuration and a second story was added in the attic space for a Master Suite. The home's footprint did not change, but the square footage of living space increased significantly. Throughout the home, additional millwork was added to enhance the original details and thoughtful storage was added for ease of organization.

View more examples of work from Construction Ahead on their Guildmember Profile Page.

The Glen Ellyn, IL home was originally built in 1886. These homeowner's were first time remodelers. The home had two layers of siding; first cedar and then vinyl on top of that. This home was lead tested and was ultimately a lead project. These young homeowners had 4 or 5 quotes from local contractors in search of the right solution. We offered Hardie fiber cement. The Opal estimator, Dan, went rounds and rounds with designs and estimates in search of the right answer. Upon tearing the existing siding down to the substrate, we discovered the front porch was sinking due to faulty installation. The roof was on cinder blocks and was falling apart. As a result, Opal built a new front porch for the homeowners. The 3 front upper windows were replaced from the original wood/wood to Andersen 400 series. The homeowners and Opal were ecstatic about the transformations.

View more examples of work from Opal Enterprises on their Guildmember Profile Page.

This charming couple required a more functional and stylized kitchen and living space for both entertaining and storage needs. Since the clients entertain often, they needed more countertop surfaces to be used for both guest seating as well as prep and landing space. Much of the existing cabinetry, lighting and appliances were inefficient while the fireplace was dated and unused.

The windows above the sink were raised to offer adequate receptacles spacing, while the sliding glass door was minimized to a French door to give more room to lengthen the peninsula and include more storage.

By removing the pantry under the stairs and rearranging the appliances, we were able to reach an efficient and welcoming layout. This Modern styled space offers ample functional storage while attaining maintenance free materials from quartz counters and a glass mosaic backsplash to vinyl flooring and glass tiles surrounding the new fireplace gas insert.

View more examples of work from Case Design/Remodeling of San Jose on their Guildmember Profile Page.

We at Better-Built Contractors, Inc completed this renovation in Coppell, TX. taking it from a one story home to a two story magnificent home. We demoed the entire home knocking down walls, updating the kitchen with all new appliances, new cabinets, granite countertops, etc. We removed the carpeted areas and stained the concrete throughout their first floor. Built a second story adding a game room, 2 bedrooms, 2 baths, and a beautiful hardwood staircase and turned this home from drab to FAB! The outside was also done in an Austin Stone, painted all the brick added and a beautiful new entry door.

View more examples of work from Better-Built Contractors, Inc. on their Guildmember Profile Page.

This home was a foreclosed property purchased by our client. As you can see it needed updating very badly. When they called us in to remodel the entire first floor, we were brave enough to tackle what was ahead of us. One thing that was very important to the family was being able to gather together while cooking family meals and entertaining guests. We were able to take advantage of the truss construction in the roof to remove walls. This created the large open space they were looking for. The layout includes a large island with many seats for guests or other family members, spacious walkways, and plenty of storage. The quartz countertop and maple cabinetry give a warm and inviting feel.

View more examples of work from Synergy Builders on their Guildmember Profile Page.