Our clients, Debbie and Larry, came to us with an exciting remodel idea with the goal of adding natural light and creating more open space for their children and grandchildren. However, after we got to know them, the story evolved into so much more. The home was originally built in the 1940s and was purchased by Debbie’s parents in 1975. Her parents would make this home their own, they renovated the kitchen and bathrooms and hosted many events and holidays. Hence our title: The History of A Home: A Space for Family.
After losing her mother and father, Debbie was determined to keep the home and make it an heirloom of her family’s legacy. Their goal with this renovation was to update, open, and create a space for family. When we spoke with Debbie and Larry about their experience, it was clear that this was more than just a renovation for them. Holding back tears, Debbie said, “I know my parents are looking down and loving it.”
The Story of Their Home—Q&A
What spaces did you have remodeled with NJW Renovations Unlimited?
The whole downstairs. We converted the living room to a dining room, the dining room to a living space, added extra living space, and opened up the kitchen. We updated the hardware and painted the kitchen to give it an updated look. The home is much more usable now and we opened it up as much as we could.
What was your goal with your remodel? Was the goal met?
Our goal was to create space and a place for the family. With 4 kids and 4 bonus kids, it was just too crowded. I want this home to be a space that is welcoming, where people can move around, more places for butts to sit! We now have a beautiful Amish table in the dining room—it’s 10 ft long, 6 chairs, a bench, plus highchairs for the children. The remodel meets and exceeds our goals, we love it so much.
Were there any challenges or hiccups in the process? If so, how was it handled?
We didn’t feel there were any hiccups, the project started 2 weeks earlier than anticipated! We got ahead of schedule, and it moved quickly. There were little challenges, (workers with covid, etc.) but they still accomplished everything well. We were extremely pleased with the turnaround.
What is your favorite aspect of your new remodel?
We love the fireplace that is framed by the big picture windows. The existing fireplace is wood burning, and the new one is gas, which gives us a choice. The dining room is also one of our favorite places. I think it is between the two—it’s hard to choose!
If you could change anything about your remodel, what would it be?
If I had more money, I would have figured out a way to open the space between the living and kitchen area—we may do that in the future with NJW Renovations Unlimited. I know that the kids are planning to keep this home in the future, which is exactly what I wanted. That was my vision and when I shared it with Rochelle, she made it happen.
How did your remodel improve your everyday living in your home?
Space and warmth. It is so much more inviting and comfortable. Rochelle helped us make it our own, while still preserving its sentimental value. The house had become heavy, closed in, and dark. After losing my parents, the only time light was in the house was when the grandkids were there—which is why we decided to make it ours for the next generation. It was my parents for 45 years, they put their own touch on it and it is still the family home.
What was your overall experience working with NJW Renovations Unlimited?
Very positive. Everyone was exceptional, from the supervisors running the project to the crew. Everyone was polite, cordial, and never showed any signs of frustration. They were extremely open and communicated well, however, never troubled us with things that didn’t require our attention.
What advice would you offer to someone who is remodeling a space in the home?
You will be working with them for a long time, and you need to be able to communicate with them. Be comfortable saying “I’m not feeling it” and we were. This was a crew of exceptional workers, they cleaned up every day and I never felt like we were an afterthought.
Did you contact other companies about remodeling your home? If so, what made you decide to work with NJW Renovations Unlimited?
We attempted to get 3 estimates. The first company couldn’t see my vision and wouldn’t meet my budget. The next company couldn’t work with my schedule to meet with me. It was frustrating. Then I started working with Rochelle and she made it all happen! NJW made me feel seen, they listened. They were real people. I also got a friend out of NJW Renovations Unlimited. I got to know Rochelle on a personal level and she understood the personal parts of the renovation. I recommend NJW Renovations Unlimited to anyone and will be using them for any future projects.
If you have a renovation or special project for your home, we want to help. Visit our website to learn more about us and contact us to set up a meeting or answer any questions you may have. Your home is important, and at NJW Renovations Unlimited, we understand that.