The remodeling firm of Custom Design & Construction has been honored numerous times for quality workmanship. The company is even ranked among the 50 top remodelers in America. But, according to president Bill Simone, one of the most gratifying awards involves a small kitchen in a 46-year-old residence on 137th Place in Hawthorne. (Photos)

The kitchen, in the home of Ruth and Kenneth Krank, was cited as the best under-$40,000 design in the United States in competition for the prestigious Chrysalis Awards sponsored by Lowe's Home Improvement Warehouse and Professional Remodeler magazine. Over 600 remodelers vied for this honor nationwide. Earlier this year Custom Design & Construction earned Chrysalis awards as Western Remodeler of the Year and Remodeler of the Year for the State of California.

"The award for our work at Mr. and Mrs. Krank's home has special meaning for us because of the challenges it presented. In meeting those challenges we transformed a cramped, old fashioned, inefficient work area into a striking ultra modern gourmet kitchen," Simone stated.

To begin with, the kitchen was restrictively small, measuring only 8' X 13'. Consequently, storage space was minimal. In meeting these challenges, Simone designed an archway entrance, accentuated by impressive classic columns. The entrance was created by opening the wall separating the kitchen and living room. The result was a more open spacious feel, and "the kitchen became a more integral part of the home," Simone explained.

Also, the original kitchen door was closed, allowing for extended cabinets and a doubling of countertop space. In addition, full extension roll-out drawers were built into all cabinets; vertical tray dividers went in above the stove, and glass front bin drawers plus a trash compactor were added. When the job was completed, Custom Design & Construction had quadrupled the storage space in this award-winner.

Two other problems were insufficient lighting and poor ventilation. The solutions: advanced-design recessed ceiling lights, an enlarged window over the sink and shaker style custom cabinets with under-cabinet task lights. Excellent ventilation was assured by installing a new stainless steel hood vent over the stove.

Further enhancing the remodel are limestone flooring and an under counter apron sink with twin handle brushed, bent nickel faucet. "Overall, the kitchen offers greater accessibility, along with a pleasant feeling of expansiveness, plus considerably more comfort and convenience while working," Mrs. Krank noted.

In addition to operating an award-winning company ranked among the 50 best remodelers in America, Simone also works on behalf of the remodeling industry and the homeowners it serves. He chairs the Southern California Remodelers Council of the National Association of Homebuilders and is a director of the Building Industry Association of Southern California's Los Angeles East Chapter. Simone has also compiled a consumer awareness report, which examines the most critical mistakes made by homeowners when selecting a remodeling contractor and during the remodeling process. Suggestions for avoiding these mistakes are also presented. Entitled "Six Secrets to Successful Remodeling," the report is available free of charge. To order a copy or to discuss a remodeling project with Simone, call (310) 815-4815. He may also be reached by e-mail. ####