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Serving Salem and the Willamette Valley Since 1961

How to Upscale a Builder-Grade Home

By
Jo Koenig
Remodeled fireplace

Builder-grade finishes are designed to be adequate, but rarely do they provide a ‘Wow’ factor. These homeowners were tired of living with the builder’s choice of Oak cabinets, black appliances, and less than optimal use of space in both the kitchen and master bathroom.

C&R Design + Remodel to the Rescue

C&R helped them with a design that included customized storage according to their well-thought-out specifications. The bulky pantry closet was demoed, opening up enough space to re-arrange the appliances. The new stainless refrigerator now tucks unobtrusively into the corner. A slide-in range with microwave hood replaces the island cooktop and wall ovens. This smart re-configuration nets better work flow, improved storage, and a kitchen that accommodates two cooks at the same time.

Kitchen before and after Salem Oregon

 

Great Room Transformation

The adjoining great room featured a rather generic fireplace that lacked any display cabinetry.  C&R built and installed custom cabinets, trim, and a tile hearth that reflects the owner’s love of the Craftsman style.

Fireplace before and after Salem Oregon

Project details:

  • Demo existing pantry closet and all of existing kitchen cabinets
  • New Cherry cabinets
  • New Stainless Steel appliances
  • New plumbing fixtures
  • Relocate outlets and switching, new under-cabinet lighting
  • Quartz Cambria Galloway countertops
  • Backsplash tile
  • Vinyl flooring throughout
  • Living room fireplace—new mantel and corbels
  • New built-in cabinetry with bookcases
  • Tile hearth and surround


Upgraded Storage Features Kitchen storage before and after Salem Oregon remodel

Master Bathroom Upgrades

The existing jetted tub was never used—and since they needed more counter space and additional storage, C&R proposed removing the tub to install a custom-built linen cabinet. The Mahogany wood used to craft the linen cabinet matches the new vanity. A lower counter where the tub once stood is now a perfect makeup table.

What to do with a jetted tub you never use

 

No More Builder Grade

This master remodel solved their builder-grade woes and gave them a beautiful, functional bathroom that makes them happy to wake up every single morning.

 

Master bathroom vanity

Project details:

  • Demo existing jetted tub and tile deck
  • New faucets and double under-counter sinks
  • New recessed Mahogany medicine cabinets
  • Mahogany floating vanity, makeup counter, shelf at window, and linen closet
  • Cambria Quartz countertops
  • Tile backsplash
  • Vinyl floor and base trim
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Five Stars
From the initial meeting with Beth to the closeout visit, working with C&R was a pleasure. Beth listened, offered advice, and was willing to work within our budget. Every worker who came to our home was punctual, courteous, and cleaned up each day. We truly could not have asked for a better experience!
Nancy B
Five Stars
Staff were so skilled, knowledgeable, and professional. The design team was so easy to work with and immediately saw our vision. The result is so beautiful! We highly recommend this company, you will never be disappointed.
Dick and Joi Hayden
Five Stars
Excellent service and workmanship. We could not be happier with our kitchen remodel. Beth helped design the perfect kitchen and our Lead Carpenter completed the work in a timely and professional manner. Everyone we came in contact with at C&R was great—we are already working with them on a second project!
Roslyn Owen
Five Stars
C & R did a kitchen remodel for us November-December 2021.  From start to finish, they provided EXCELLENT service.  Beth guided us expertly through making decisions on products and design.  Mark led their team of professionals to expertly …
Christy Austin
Five Stars
We just completed a remodel of a 1980 sunroom to utility room, as well as expanding the downstairs bedroom, bath, half bath and closet and are thrilled with the result. It was a pleasure to work with C & R. We were so impressed with the …
Janet Lorenz
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