“We wanted to convert and update a 1970s house into a 2010 house. One requirement was to stay completely within the house original footprint to avoid a complete septic system repositioning.
We had never done a project of this size before. We started working with another architect but his concept was to start by tearing down half the house which was much too expensive of a proposal.
Our contractor suggested we talk to Gisela Hollis.
Gisela really listened to what we wanted. We needed to expand the kitchen to allow the two of us to work together. She was able to design a grand kitchen by utilizing the space in our unused formal living room and small dining room, and converting our family room into an elegant dining room. Other “hidden” square footage was utilized for a new powder room and laundry room. Additionally, a more inviting entry and elegant foyer occupy the place of a long and narrow dark porch. She converted and updated our house with all the special features we wanted!
Gisela was excellent at showing me conceptual designs. I have a hard time visualizing spaces without pictures and Gisela made it possible for me to really see how the design was going to look.
Gisela also excelled at working to keep costs down. As with any construction project, there are decisions to be made during the project that differ from the original plan, but all these were handled well. The basic construction budget was on target but there were some over-budget costs due to bringing the construction up to code and us adding high end products such as cabinetry, pulls, sinks, faucets, door handles, and lighting fixtures.
Gisela kept an eye on how the construction was going and made sure everything was being done right. She noticed the electrician had centered the connection for the dining room chandelier exactly in the middle of the room. I didn’t think it was such a big item and wasn’t planning on pointing it out. But when Gisela saw it she immediately knew it needed to be moved to hang properly over the table. She insisted on pointing it out to the contractor so it was corrected.
Overall we had a very smooth project. Our questions and concerns were always answered and all our needs were met. The solution of converting our formal living room into an every day room was perfect for us. We do not miss it and we have gained a beautiful, functional kitchen. We are very happy with how the project turned out!”