The designer's kitchen
When interior decorator Mara Michieli Mauro and husband periodontist Frank Mauro decided to update the kitchen in their 60 year old Thunder Bay home, the sky was the limit.
“We spend so much time in our kitchen, we wanted a more functional space that meshed with the character and charm of the rest of our house,” said Mara.
With the help of cabinet maker Brad Beck of High-Tech Millwork and the finishing touches of contractor Frank Mirabelli of First General Services, the Mauros were thrilled with how their plan unfolded. “Brad and I came up with a rough floor plan, and selected cabinet colours. We engaged our contractor to open up the room by removing some doors and a chimney, and we repositioned our refrigerator that had been blocking the natural light. Now the room is brighter, more open and organized” said Mara.
First General Services offers all the resources needed to satisfy the highest quality renovation including on-staff certified carpenters and cabinet makers.
“Working with an interior decorator, like Mara helps in making everything look like it belongs, and that the end result was easily achieved,” stated Frank Mirabelli of First General Services. “Mara was a customer who knew what she wanted and how to achieve it!”
“Our team works to expedite the renovation process with little disruption to our clients’ homes,” he adds.
“We suggest that our clients choose their products and style prior to the commencement of their renovation in order to foresee and react to any required corrections or changes before the job begins.”
Brad Beck of Hi-Tech Millwork & Manufacturing shares his thoughts about the renovation.
“As the cabinet maker on the project, I met with Mara to review several of her options for woods, accents, moldings and finishes that would pull together her desired look. After the installation was completed everyone was pleased with the end result; something that offers me and my team the most satisfaction,” said Beck.
Before moving forward with your kitchen renovation, Mara encourages her clients to spend time going through kitchen design magazines to ensure they select the finishes that work with their style.
Mara’s tips to planning the perfect kitchen renovation:
- Live in your home for a bit before starting to ensure you won’t be saying “Oh, I wish I had done this, or changed that.”
- Hire a trustworthy contractor. Find someone who comes recommended or who has completed work you’ve seen.
- Start a file or album for your room renovation. Clip ideas from magazines that you might like to see. Your visuals will be helpful when you meet with your contractor or designer, and help you remember important details.
- Don’t follow trends. Classic looks last longer and will save you money down the road. Add trendy colours in the form of flowers, paint or accessories; items that are easy and inexpensive to change.
- Be on site whenever you can to ensure the job is done to your specifications. Have materials delivered and inspect them prior to installation to make certain they are what you’ve ordered.
