Rankin Master Bathroom Renovation

I sympathize with our future clients when they are in the process of selecting their contractor. During the architectural design-phase, thoughts are focused on the features and benefits of product selections and layout ideas. As the design euphoria ebbs away, clients can be saddled with sifting through lengthy contract proposals filled with words and phrases that are far from intuitive. The realization settles in that the process that delivers the beautiful end product will be months in duration and that the contractor will become their newest member of the family. And how could you pick a family member anyway? In my experience, the first step is to see if we speak the same "language" and share common values.

I instantly liked Mark and Jen Rankin when I met with them during the bid phase of their project. It was clear to me that they had thoughtfully considered their project and highly valued the design that they had worked through with their architect. Our most successful projects have been with owners and architects that cared deeply about the design and then invested the time and resources to make sure that it was implemented to perfection.

The Rankin's had recently purchased an 80-year old Victorian Home for their growing family and were starting their first full scale renovation project on the third floor. They were wisely using the 3rd floor renovation project to create a much needed quiet space for themselves and as a test run to develop a relationship with an architect and contractor to later tackle larger projects at their home.

I was invited by their architect Peter Archer, AIA and Jeff Dolan their project manager at Archer & Buchanan Architecture to meet with the Rankin's to review their project. Their plans called for the creation of an adult oasis in the form of a contemporary master suite carved from their Victorian home. Upon completion, the Rankin's would enjoy a master bath with a spa-like feel created by using clean-lined natural materials.

When I first saw Mark and Jen's master suite, it was a long way from spa like. The pictures tell the story of a 1970's bathroom renovation that was anything but subtle. Purple and peach colors must have looked a lot better back then; however, the joy of renovation is the dramatic change that I, as a contractor get to live through with our owners. I am always impressed with an architect's ability to envision what a space should be like, through all the clutter that is currently present. This case was no exception to that rule, as Jeff and Peter created a third floor living experience that is central to the entire home.

I appreciate that Mark and Jen chose Rittenhouse Builders to bring their renovation project to life. It was a privilege to work with their architects as we created a special new way for them to enjoy their new home.