.jpg?width=600&height=900&name=Untitled%20design%20(45).jpg "A bright and inviting entryway featuring a teal front door, a wooden bench with coat hooks above, a decorative lighted tree, and a brown leather handbag resting on the bench. In Montclair, NJ | G&L and Sons Renovations")
.jpg?width=600&height=900&name=Untitled%20design%20(44).jpg "A cozy kitchen corner featuring a silver stand mixer on a marble countertop, flanked by two wooden floating shelves holding decorative black deer figurines and glass jars. In Montclair, NJ | G&L and Sons Renovations")
The Remodel Challenges and Solutions
Every remodel comes with challenges, and this project was no exception. The Little Falls project required us to be creative because the basement stairs and attic access were in between the kitchen and living room, and to make the kitchen bigger and embrace an open-concept kitchen remodel with an island; we needed to move them.
We worked through different scenarios and finally decided to move the stairs to the shared wall with the garage. Cutting into the concrete foundation wall to create new access from the main floor to the garage required expert masonry skills. Our carpenter, who had experience as a mason, executed the job with precision.
By doing this, the homeowners didn't have to go through the basement and out into the garage when they needed to drive somewhere. Additionally, to ensure we were doing things right, we brought in a trusted architect to help with the load calculations and drawings because we were modifying load-bearing walls. After we removed the basement stairs and attic access, we had to reframe the floor and ceiling areas.
The couple also wanted more outlets to accommodate cooking accessories, as well as custom-built storage solutions to maximize functionality. Our team adjusted plans accordingly to ensure this was a priority. After getting the homeowner's feedback during the design review meeting, final changes were made, and permits were pulled.
All that was left was for our field team and trusted trade partners to work together to achieve what the client wanted for their home.
Beautiful Staircase to the Garage
Although it came with challenges and involved us bringing in an architect, one of the most striking additions was the new staircase leading to the garage. The elegant wood railing seamlessly integrates with the home’s design, enhancing how this space looks and functions.
A Kitchen Fit for a Chef
The Little Falls kitchen remodel is every cook's dream. The homeowners didn’t have a strict budget but were willing to invest in quality materials and thoughtful design choices. They weren’t focused on luxury for luxury’s sake but wanted a kitchen that would genuinely enhance their daily lives.
With this kitchen design and remodel in Little Falls, we added premium appliances, expanded the prep space, added modern kitchen lighting fixtures, and included a stunning oversized island. The open layout allows the wife to cook and bake efficiently while still being part of the conversation with friends and family. As a passionate cook and baker, she was particularly excited about the new layout and high-end appliances.
Improved Flow and Functionality
The home now has a better flow between rooms by reconfiguring the layout and updating key elements. The redesigned foyer and mudroom bench seat with hooks and a shelf make the entryway more practical and welcoming. In addition, the adjusted layout from the bedroom side of the home to the living room makes movement more convenient.
Stunning Flooring
To keep costs reasonable, we opted for luxury vinyl plank flooring instead of hardwood, which helped reduce expenses without compromising style or durability. The flooring turned out beautiful and allowed our clients to dedicate more of their budget spend to other areas of the first floor that they wanted to upgrade like the treasured kitchen.
