Remodeling Made Easy

Most families start a major remodeling project filled with excitement. But that rush of optimism often turns to bewilderment and confusion as they try to sort through their options, settle on a design, choose colors, pick out fixtures and appliances, and find the right people to do the work.

Fran and Earl Mack of San Ramon, who wanted to expand and modernize their kitchen, say the process would have been overwhelming if it weren’t for their contractors, Mosche and Michelle Mor of Sunshine Construction, Inc.

“We had never done anything like this before,” said Fran. “We knew we wanted a different, bigger and more modern design, but we didn’t know how to go about doing that. They were able to help us figure it out. It was like one of those home improvement shows where the designers come in, give you ideas and then take you step by step to help you get there.”

The first step was for Mosche to help the Macks figure out a design that would accomplish their goals. Drawing on his 28 years experience as a general contractor, Mosche explained design principals and standard measurements, pointing out that there wasn’t enough space for a kitchen island. He suggested bringing in more natural light by putting matching windows on either side of the cooktop, and adding workspace with a built-in desk and overhead cubbies. And he clarified building regulations, showing them what they needed to do to bring the electrical and plumbing up to code and equip the kitchen for modern technology.

Once they had a plan, Michelle Mor met with the Macks to help create a sketch of the new kitchen that was rough, but drawn to scale, and she took it to their cabinet company. There, the Macks were able to see a computer-generated picture of their new kitchen and start picking out cabinets and then do work on the next step of the countertops. “They wanted something light to make the kitchen look more open,” said Michelle. “So they went with maple cabinets with Baltic Brown granite for the countertops.”

That decision—and many, many others—were easier because Michelle went with the Macks every step of the way. “She was very patient in helping us get ideas and taking us around to different places,” says Fran. It’s a personal touch that sets Sunshine Construction, Inc. apart and has earned them a reputation for quality service throughout Contra Costa and Alameda counties.

“I will assist the homeowners in picking out colors, granite, appliances, and fixtures,” says Michelle. “They are guided through the entire process, not just sent out on their own to get everything done. And for appliances and fixtures, we pass our contractors discount on to our clients.” 

She helped the Macks pick out tile for the floors and backsplash that matched the soft beige background colors in the granite and designed a motif of Baltic Brown granite diamonds and frame under the stainless steel and glass hood over the contemporary gas cooktop. Matching Baltic Brown granite diamonds are placed among the floor tiles as well.

The result, says Fran, is a simple but elegant look that is exactly what she wanted, but would have had trouble getting without Mosche and Michelle. “It was so great to work with them. They kept things on track and got us to the right people. And all their subcontractors who worked here were very good.” In fact, she says, she was so pleased that she’s working with Sunshine Construction again, this time to renovate their living room.