INDUSTRY INTERVIEW: Urban Refurbishment
HOW TO WORK WITH A CONTRACTOR
Photos by Woodford Sisters
Welcome to our Industry Interview Series!
It's been my goal for some time now to interview our tradespeople who we work closely with to give a more in-depth look at what they do, what homeowners should know before making a big decision, and get to know these talented people a little better.
As Designers, we are required to know so much about so many products, which let's face it, it's impossible to know everything! The people you're going to meet in this interview series are the unsung heroes of our projects. They're the ones who supply us with the knowledge to help us make informed decisions, provide quality products/services/installation and help us problem solve along the way. Because let's be honest and address that there WILL be problems in every project.
I hope you enjoy this series and find it incredibly helpful whether you're working on your own home or love to know more about our industry.
Have something you want to know more about? Drop us a note HERE and let us know how we can help!
Let's DIVE IN!
Business Philosophy:
To have people love where they live. With each project we listen and work closely with homeowners to deliver the best plan to accomplish their goals. When complete with the project we leave behind quality work with an experience people want to share with others.
BUSINESS PROFILE:
Industry: General Contractor
Number of years in business: 9 years
Website: https://www.urbanrefurbishment.com/
Facebook: Urban-Refurbishment
Instagram: @urban_refurbishment
Email: sandi@urbanrefurbishment.com
OUR INTERVIEW WITH URBAN REFURBISHMENT:
NO.1
For those who are unfamiliar with your company-what type of services do you offer?
We are capable of helping homeowners with any kind and size of home improvement, however, we specialize in add ons, kitchens and bathrooms.
NO.2
What's your most popular service and why do you think that is?
Kitchen remodels. There’s a lot to coordinate in this space and it’s the heart of the home so people want it done as quickly as possible. They also love that we give them the ability to see their space in our 3D design program so we can make sure the final layout they choose not only accomplishes their wish-list goals but also makes the space feel as spacious as possible.
NO.3
What trends are you seeing in the building industry right now?
People are not only concentrating on the large picture but the little details as well. They plan on living and loving what we’re remodeling for years to come but they also want to make sure if they put their house on the market it has features people are going to walk away talking about.
NO.4
What trends do you hope to never see again?
Jacuzzi tubs. We’ve removed too many to count and the amount of prime real estate they take up in a bathroom is obnoxious. Today’s soaker tub options are sleek and deep rather than one you can fit your whole family in.
NO.5
What are the signs of a quality new build or remodel?
It comes back to those details and the reason we love working with Interior Designers. Does the flow make sense? Do all the finishes match? Does it match the style of the rest of the house? If someone is rushing through something these things get missed and in the end leave homeowners with a “next time” learning list.
NO.6
What should homeowners know before selecting a contractor?
Was there a process in place? No matter how ready the homeowner is to start, a good GC should have a process that they have to follow in order to proceed. Making sure designs are finalized before demolition starts. Making sure schedules are built out far enough that you are getting the top subcontractors to perform the work. Having a selections schedule that allows you to order quality products that are going to last over the years vs whatever is readily available.
In the end, you’re entering a relationship with someone that depending on the size of the remodel could last a long period of me. Choose people you like and trust.
NO.7
Any common misconceptions that homeowners should know about?
HGTV- Those shows are very misleading when it comes to cost, timeframe and materials used. They are, however, a great resource for inspiration.
NO.8
What can homeowners do to prepare for a remodel?
For large remodels like a whole main floor, find temporary housing, you’ll like us better. We do our best to make accommodations for you to live in your space while we remodel but if we’re taking over the main floor and that’s your only kitchen no matter how much you think delivery is the perfect solution you’ll be bored of your options and over washing your dishes in the bathroom within weeks.
Have some photos showing examples of what you love. There is a sea of pictures to look at on Pinterest, Houzz or even a Google. Have some ideas in mind to show your GC. Even if doing that exact thing puts you over budget we’ve seen enough that we may have some ideas on how to accomplish that same feel in a more economical way.
If the thought of making all those selections that come with a remodel overwhelms you, hire an Interior Designer. Even the clients who love and look forward to this part struggle at times with just how many decisions they have to make in rebuilding an area of their home. Designers are professionals at narrowing these selections down and making sure you don’t have any regrets when everything is put back together.
NO.9
What's next for Urban Refurbishment?
We want to work with more Interior Designers. We’re very involved with the American Society of Interior Designers because we believe in their mission statement, “Design Impacts Lives”. We love bringing their ideas to life and the closeness in which they work with their clients.
THIS OR THAT
LET'S GET TO KNOW tony & Sandi A LITTLE BETTER
Coffee or Tea?
Sandi - Coffee, lots and lots of coffee.
Tony - Tea
Early Bird or Night Owl?
Both of us are night owls but understand the benefits of reading and sending emails at 6am before our phones start ringing.
Book or Movie?
Movies all the way
Phone Call or Text?
Text - let’s get to the point and catch-up in person.
Night In or Night Out?
Night in with the kids. We both have young kids at home so making memories at home with them is something that can’t be beat.
Online or Brick & Mortar?
Online - EVERYTHING is 1 click away.
Thank you, Urban Refurbishment, for all your wonderful advice, to learn more you can follow them on social media HERE or check out their website- click the button below!