Officer housing transformed into welcoming home

The owners of a 1950s home, which was built as officer housing for the Air Force, didn't like their home, in fact, one owner hated it.

"I came home each day and walked into my home and hated it! It's just so not me!" she explained to project manager, Gary Proulx.

The home lacked functionality, color, flow and warmth. The kitchen was cramped and outdated and the main bath lacked lighting and ventilation, much less aesthetic appeal - an important element for the homeowners.

One aspect of her home she particularly hated was when she entertained. She'd be stuck in the kitchen, out of the flow of conversation, left out while she prepared the meals for her family and guests.

After listening to her explanation of how hard it was to prepare a meal, Gary was sympathetic. "I could easily understand why she gave up cooking," Gary said. "The entire space worked against her. For instance when someone came in the door, the refrigerator and range were blocked. And vice versa: if someone wanted to enter, they would have to wait for the cook to close the refrigerator door!"

To solve this impossible layout, a wall was removed and appliances moved. The newly designed kitchen now sports granite countertops, warm birch cabinets, and composite tile flooring. The kitchen now opens into a combination dining and living room, separated by a counter perfect for casual meals.

The dining/living room, hallway and bathroom were also included in the renovation. Soft moss green paint brightens the home, replacing aging wallpaper from the past. Hardwood floors in the hallway, white molding, chair rail and doors, add to the welcoming color scheme.

The main bath now has a new shower/bathtub combination, sink and toilet, and new tile, reflecting the soft colors of the hallway.

"Now I absolutely love my home," the homeowner said. "Mission accomplished!" She added: "Working with the Keith Trembley Builders team was fun! They were so professional and respectful...and did I mention, I love my new home!"

Humane Society's call for help answered

When the Bangor Humane Society wanted to hold an event to thank their donors, it didn't want to use funds meant for animals. Board member, Louise Cross offered to make a call to Gary Proulx, project manager for Keith Trembley Builders.

"We're all a bunch of softies when it comes to animals," Gary said. Gary contacted Dave Climo, owner of Climo Electric and Kenny Therrien, owner of Art Landry Plumbing and Heating, both of whom were enthusiastic about pitching in.

"We all share the same business philosophy," Gary said. "We believe that people do business with people - not companies - so we want to do what's right, morally and ethically. It certainly seem right to sponsor this event for BHS."

The three companies covered all the expenses for a reception in May at the Muddy Rudder. Guest speaker Bill Irwin, author of Blind Courage, talked about trekking the Appalachian Trail with his seeing eye dog, Orient. Bill is the only blind person to complete all 2,169 miles of the trail. His inspiring message of perseverance captivated the audience.

Training for insurance adjusters

Keith Trembley Builders and Paul Davis Restoration & Remodeling recently sponsored free Continuing Education classes for members of the National Association of Insurance of Women during its Maine Council meeting. Instructor Jim Verzino, who is certified in Applied Structural Drying (ASD) through The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning & Restroration Certification (IICRC), explained the science and technology involved in ASD.

Our clients say...

"We are very pleased with the great work...Jerry is a real professional...We would recommend your company." - Charles & Judith

"From the beginning of the job to the end, I remain impressed with the work ethic and quality craftsmanship..." - Susan

"I would not hesitate having PDR do any work in my house again." - Betsey

"We are very satisfied with the outcome...Thanks so much for the beautiful home you've gien back to use." - Gregg & Cindy

Dear Stacey: Thank you very, very much for all you did for me in turning a "catastrophe"into a very positive and productive remodeling experience. I really appreciated your professional knowledge and perseverance that really made it all happen when it seemed like [our insurance company] might not. Tom, Mike, & Dana also exceeded my expectations with speedy, professional (and cheerful) work and also some good ideas and even suggestions & encouragement with some of mine. And they always cleaned up! It seemed like you all just went the extra mile! This was my first repair/remodeling experience and, thanks to you, I'm actually glad that tree fell on my house - it's better than before and it got me started on ideas & projects to make it even better. I certainly would recommend you to anyone looking for the best. And best to you. Thanks again. - Melissa Hilliard, Old Orchard Beach

Referrals!

We love it when our satisfied clients refer us to their friends and family. To show our appreciation, we send up to $100 gas card whenever a referral results in a new client. Thank you!

Our most recent referrals were:

• Bill Reynolds, Portland referred Clark Builders West Bethel
• Lisa Mahaney, Alton referred Don & Dolores Stone Hudson & David Levesque, Milford
• Jane Russo, Saco referred ARP Association, Portland
• Don Dickel, Winterport referred Erving Hill, Bangor
• Scott Dupaul Sanford referred David Hall, Waterboro
• Rodney Buswell, Eddington referred Johanna Sloan, Bangor

Congratulations!

Congratulations to Bob Cyr and Joe Ouellette! At this year's Paul Davis Restoration Convention, they won the award for the BEST (#3, #5) customer service scores in the United States out of the thousands of project managers for PDR. Go Mainers! Go Paul Davis Restoration and Keith Trembley Builder!