G&B – Toronto, December 2015
Unfortunately, our family home fell victim to a devastating electrical fire in the summer of 2014. Our family was traumatised by the event and did not know where to start.
Knowing how distraught we were, my husband’s Aunt and Uncle referred us to Jay Charendoff from Home Renovations after Jay redesigned their condominium when they relocated to Toronto the previous year.
During the first meeting with Jay, we explained to him what we thought the scope of the renovation and rebuild of our home would be. Two of the three floors of our home were gutted and we had an opportunity to make some changes to the original floor plan of our over 60 year old house. He was empathic and supportive and offered excellent suggestions and insights for us to consider. He was patient and understood how difficult it was for us to make decisions regarding the rebuild.
We visited the house on several occasions with Jay where he assessed the situation and provided concrete suggestions how we might proceed. We told him that we wanted to change the floor plan of both the basement and main floor.
Jay approached the project systematically and methodically. He asked pertinent and insightful questions regarding our lifestyle and how we envisioned utilizing the space.
We spent invaluable time on discussing the redesign of the main floor and kitchen. Jay provided numerous options/alternatives and design sketches to assist us in envisioning the end result. His drawings were detailed and with great accuracy making the main floor and kitchen almost come “alive”.
The design process was the one bright light in our lives during this difficult time. Jay mapped out how we could rebuild our house and in essence our lives.
We felt energized by the design process and looked forward to receiving the first version of the Scope of Work. Jay worked within our budget in developing this documentation. He took feedback and our input exceptionally well and really listened to what we were saying.
Jay provided us with the names of a few contractors and cabinet makers who he had previously worked with. We interviewed all of them and after checking on references chose Mike Ponte (Elite General Contracting) and Bill Dawson (Dawson Cabinetworks Inc.).
We felt blessed and respected by this dedicated team of renovation specialists who provided excellent service and quality. Throughout the process Jay was available for consultation and to assist with any problem solving. He provided upon request, ongoing creative feedback and ideas on how to address obstacles and or challenges. He provided clarity and information on a variety of issues during the process by being available for site visits, quality control and construction challenges. At all times we felt heard, respected and part of the rebuild “team”.
We are completely indebted to Jay for his professionalism, compassion and excellent architectural insights during this difficult time.
- Approximate cost of services:
- $250,000.00
- Company Response
A difficult and sad story that has affected every aspect of this wonderful family's home and lifestyle through no fault of their own. This family has somehow learned to cope with an incredible series of nasty circumstances. This year will be the beginning of a long period of health, happiness and peace.