Kitchen Talk?

Thinking about a kitchen remodel? Overwhelmed? Come for coffee and let's talk . . . or so the ad goes. I had seen it in the Beach Reporter and Easy Reader for a couple of years, but never really considered calling because our potential project involved much more than a kitchen remodel. After a year of working with an architect on an addition that would cost too much to build, followed by being swindled by a contractor who made promises that were not kept, we hit rock bottom (see The Bad).

I was depressed, but still determined to see our project through. The real heart of it, as it is with any home, was the kitchen. I figured it was at least a start. I reserved a spot to check out The Kitchen Studio in Redondo Beach and went without Don. There was a group of about 7 or 8 that morning. We were graciously greeted by Nicole Daniels at the front desk, given name tags and directed to the showroom that had fresh coffee, pasteries and a warm atmosphere.

And then, we were introduced to designer, Jean Anguiano. There was something very reassuring about him - a sense of professionalism and confidence we hadn't encountered in our past fiascos. I didn't stay long because I was pretty much sold and I wanted Don to hear what Jean had to say.

I dragged him back the following week so we could meet with Jean one-on-one. Don was leary and very uncertain. I brought him a catalogue of a kitchen and asked Jean if he could replicate it. He assured us he could replicate the cabinets exactly, but customize them so they suited our particular needs. Further, he could do bathrooms as well - actually, anything that involved cabinets.

So what's the catch? There really is none. The Kitchen Studio sells custom cabinets. That is their product. The bonus is they are reasonably priced (not much more than the stock cabinet's I wanted at Expo) and the design and project supervision is free of charge. Design and construction is approached from a Project Management stance.

Don and I signed with The Kitchen Studio the following week and have never looked back with an ounce of regret. We were so happy with the way things were going, we had them design our guest bath, hall cabinets and linen closet, as well.

Once all of the plans were finalized (thanks to Nicole's brilliant skills), we were paired up with a contrator who would bring the project to life. Jean told us he was a Scotsman, but it never really clicked until he walked through the door (see right panel for Elan Construction). John and Don have been friends for years, but Don had avoided approaching him for just that reason. Since Jean and John had worked together in the past, we figured it was somehow karma. John has mostly been dealing with me, but he is all business when it comes to his work and as honest as they come. His crew is professional, curteous and on time.

After hearing all of the horror stories from friends, we can only say that the experience has been one of the best ever. We started on January 4th and are nearing completion in the next two weeks. The cabinet quality is superb and was delivered on schedule (see right table for cabinet customizations we opted for). Additionally, Jean will only recommend contractors if he knows their work first-hand.

To make a long story short (I know, too late), call The Kitchen Studio if you're contemplating a remodel that involves cabinets of any kind. They are located at 312 South Catalina Avenue, Redondo Beach. Call 310-379-9800.