Project Details
Location: The Dunes – Naples, FL
Project Area: Kitchen, Bar, Office, Bathroom and Entertainment Center
Product chosen for the design: Ultracraft cabinetry
Project Timeframe: 6 months
BEFORE & AFTER
Q: What was the customer’s motivation to undertake the project?
A: The customers have been vacationing at the condo for some time and wanted to remodel the entire space. This meant the kitchen, the adjacent bar and entertainment center, as well as the office.
Q: What were the challenges encountered during the project’s execution?
A: The project had many challenges, throughout its fulfillment. First, access to the property and elevator was not easy, as the condo is in a high-rise building. HOA’s have strict rules on which access point workers can enter and where they can work. Once we broke the wall to build the frame for the entertainment center, we realized that several hidden steel and cement columns were going to impede the original design. I had to literally use the cabinetry we ordered, and purpose build the entertainment wall from its parts. As a result, we had to add the bathroom to the remodeling and adjust its size. As 3 if this was not enough, the finish for the cabinetry we ordered for the office and bar was incorrectly manufactured. So, we had to seek replacement and wait another 5 weeks before completing the installation.
Q: What would you recommend customers do in a similar remodeling project?
A: If you are seeking a remodeling in a high-rise apartment, be realistic with timeframes. HOA’s might not allow some time of work to be conducted in the condo, so parts may have to be cut in the garage and brought up to the condo for installation, adding time to the project milestones. Ensure to have blueprints for the property, because even if in a condo, your neighbors’ apartment might not be the same as yours.
Q: What were the high points of the project, for you?
A: Ironically, making the entertainment center was extremely rewarding. It turned out better than it would have been with the original semi-custom cabinets. To be able to use what we ordered and then make it really fit the space was something special. The contractors I worked with did a fantastic job. We have the best installer and that really makes a difference. I also loved the kitchen area. I knew exactly what the customer wanted and understanding its complexity, sometimes I wondered if we could really do it justice. I’m pleased to say we did! The customers were great, they were patient with us, as the initial timeframe was extended due to the hurdles we encountered.
