CHARLES' KITCHENS

We had the pleasure of working with Charles last summer on a major kitchen remodel, before he launched Charles' Kitchens (We wish him all the success he can handle). We had a wall knocked out and combined our existing kitchen and dining room. I had no idea what to expect when we started, and knowing we were in for a big bill regardless of whom we chose to create the design and execute it, I was more than a little nervous. But I'll get right to the point. I cannot possibly say enough positive things about our interaction with Charles, right from day one: - He was, and I'm sure remains, extremely personable to deal with - He was consistently transparent about the evolution of his design and the impact it would have on price, as well as the functionality of the kitchen - He personally remained engaged throughout the design process, then continued to work closely with the entire installation team: demolition, countertops, cabinets, electrician, plumber, etc. - He solved problems as they arose, including creating a workable design solution for a potential "dream-shattering" issue with a load bearing interior wall section - He listened for the "big picture" we were trying to achieve, and offered suggestions for improvements and features we never would have come up with, without pressure to accept - And most importantly, he produced a magnificent result. A year into the new kitchen era, there has not been a single complaint or regret from the Chairwoman of the Kitchen Remodeling Committee. It is the kitchen she has always wanted. Regarding the delicate subject of price, I honestly don't know how Charles' services compare to others, since our experience was more of a "total package approach" that included his efforts and the efforts of many others. Face it, a remodel like we had is going to be expensive, probably very expensive, but obviously everything needs to start with the design. Ours was not a job that your brother-in-law or the guy across the street could have done. There were so many things that might have gone wrong - and caused costly major problems or eventual rework - that didn't because of Charles' skill, integrity and total commitment to making sure we were satisfied. So again, I don't know where he falls on the raw cost spectrum, but (especially a year of kitchen use later) I can say with complete confidence we got 150% value for whatever we paid for his services. I would say we'd use Charles' Kitchens and Charles again in a second, but, uhh, fortunately we won't have to (nothing personal Charles). But I certainly recommend you do.