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by Amy Sharp

Sheryl and Sidney have lived in their home since 2015. “The different flooring and tile patterns in the dining room, kitchen, entryway, and family room drove Sheryl crazy!” says Sidney. “We wanted to replace it all with the same flooring. The kitchen and family room were separated by a partial wall. We wanted to knock that wall out, open up the room, and gut and remodel the kitchen.”

“We had read about Teri Gilberg (better known as The Re-Modelista) on NextDoor and in UpClose magazine,” continues Sheryl. “An acquaintance had also used her for a remodel. We received quotes from Teri and one other contractor. We really liked Teri. Her budget was good, and she was very patient with my wants and suggestions. She listened to my ideas. I was concerned we wouldn’t have enough storage with the loss of the cabinets in the partial wall. I suggested we remove the kitchen fur down and put cabinets to the ceiling. With the wall gone, I also wanted a bigger pantry. Teri suggested pantry cabinets with rollouts, which I love. When I suggested wine slots to the ceiling with space in each one for two wine bottles, Teri’s team asked if I was sure. I was. I wanted to utilize all of the space. We put a lazy susan in the corner cabinet, and a spice drawer next to the stove. The island was made bigger, and as a result the recessed space for can lights above it was extended to match the island. We put a dog cabinet and a ‘command center’ cabinet next to the fridge with a pegboard inside for keys. Teri’s not locked into her own style. She’s a good listener to your ideas.”

For materials, Sidney and Sheryl used resources on Teri’s website. “I can’t imagine trying to do this without a general contractor,” explains Sidney. “Teri called, texted, and stopped by daily during our remodel. We trusted everyone Teri sent to us. She brought in quality people. When we couldn’t find a subway tile that matched for a backsplash, we decided to run the quartz up the wall. The quartz person did an amazing job matching the veining from the countertop up into the backsplash. It’s my favorite part of the kitchen!

Every member of Teri’s team was professional, prompt, and tidy. Teri also made small suggestions that made a huge difference. For example, in the family room she suggested we raise the doorways about a foot. That simple change opened up the space even more.”

The estimated timeline for the project was six weeks. Teri’s estimate was right on. “We lived in our master bedroom for six weeks with our two dogs and a toaster oven,” laughs Sheryl. “We do recommend Teri. She is awesome!”