“Jeanne was amazing because I had this concept, but it wasn’t grounded,” said Gena Baldridge. “She really took my ideas and made them come to the life.”

The house was built around the concept of having a large, open space that included the kitchen and great room. A west-facing deck along the space was added for outdoor BBQ’s and mingling in nicer weather.

With busy, active lifestyles that include tennis, traveling and entertaining on top of working full-time jobs, the Baldridges also wanted this space to be welcoming for casual drop-ins.

“Sometimes we’d like to make pizzas and people would come over because they loved being at our house! It always felt special, even if it was casual.”

The affairs could be grand as well. Gena says the most memorable party was a fundraiser in which 50 guests were asked to bring a bottle of wine for the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, so the organization could raffle the wine at their Holiday Gala. The guest list included friends and scientists for dinner prepared by a private Chef (who donated his food and time). While cooking heavy appetizers, the Chef would place them out on the large island while talking with guests. At the same time guests mingled in the great room and everyone was able to enjoy the party together.

Having a home that is “the place” for people to go to watch the game, hang out, stop by for appetizers and wine or attend a fundraiser was an amazing experience for the Baldridge family. Gena thanks Burke and Jeanne for making this dream come true throughout what was a seamless process and managing everything to a tee.

“People think of an interior design as picking out wallpaper and this was way beyond that,” said Gena. “Jeanne was involved in the architecture, design and construction along with the cosmetic items. The best thing about Burke and the Empire team is that the project was finished on time which is unheard of. We had a timeline and they were very good at making things happen.”

Making it all more than worthwhile to hear the words, ” This is the prettiest kitchen I’ve ever seen in my life!” from guests and providing amazing memories along the way.

“Working with Burke and Jeanne makes the project a pleasure,” said Wilkinson. “It’s so easy. Everything is solved. You really have advocates on your side.”

With a new husband at her side, Jackie and Tom had thought about getting a new home, but opted instead to stay in his home. The downside: white walls and décor that wasn’t in the style of the two as a couple. The upside: a gorgeous view that wasn’t being taken advantage of.

“I showed Jeanne the home and she told me that we could make wonderful changes and we would love it,” said Wilkinson.

The remodel began in September. Walls were torn down, ceilings were raised, and every wall in the house was painted. All of the baseboards in the home were replaced and interior doors and hardware were changed. New cabinetry was made with “built-ins,” hardwood floors were added as were heated tiles in the master bathroom floor.

Not to mention the personal touches along the way.

“We had two fireplaces in the house in which Jeanne personally designed mantles and hearths then had them created and built so that our fireplace in the living room, that used to be a hole in the wall, now looks like a big fireplace in a lodge. It’s beautiful!” said Wilkinson.

Jeanne also coordinated the painting.

“My house is brown with six to eight different tones of brown. They all had to flow together and work together. Jeanne chose every wall, every ceiling, which rooms dark, which light… a major job. You’ve got to be really good to do color. Not only that, but every new door, frame, window, etc. Went from blonde faded wood to a deep, rich brown. If something went up and it wasn’t right, Jeanne would correct immediately. I love it, it’s really warm and welcoming.”

The other aspect of the job the Wilkinson’s were so impressed with was the professionalism of the sub-contractors. They were under pressure to finish the remodel quickly and because Burke and Jeanne put together an amazing team, everyone got along and no one got in each other’s way. Wilkinson said in addition, the crews would clean the place every single day before they left so there was never sawdust lying around or materials. Everything was stacked neatly and swept.

“Jeanne, as part of the team, was also here at least once a day. She would also drop anything and be here three times a day if needed. She was always here. Jeanne was johnny on the spot, working with subs the minute they needed something,” said Wilkinson.

After a few months, the remodel ended in January. Tom and Jackie couldn’t be more impressed.

“It’s a warm and welcoming haven for us. It’s a beautiful home. We can come and go like the empty nesters that we are and every time we come back, we’re just so happy to be here.”

Lake of the Woods residents Jeff and Kelly spent months working with an architect and engineer to design a major remodel on their home.  When it came time to select a contractor, Kelly says Empire Remodeling came highly recommended and was both consistent and persistent. “We’re very pleased with the work of Bill, Jeanne and the Empire team,” she said.  ”They met our expectations regarding the highest standards of quality and personal service.”

The project featured a very significant remodel of the kitchen, the enlargement of the family room, and the addition of a computer room.  Kelly says the Empire team worked hard to meet the goals and budget during the multi-week effort.  ”Bill made it manageable considering we were basically without a kitchen,” said Kelly.  ”He was professional, kept us in the loop regarding the schedule and did a great job of making the process as comfortable as possible based on the scope of the work.”

For nearly 15 years, Senior Project Manager Bill Kennedy has built long-term relationships with clients based on true craftsman skills and superior personal service. Bill is most comfortable managing the toughest residential remodeling projects.

Kelly says Jeanne was totally committed to the highest standards, even to the point of requiring the re-installation of a component because it did not make the grade. “I really enjoyed working with Jeanne,” said Kelly. “Her dedication to quality is more than impressive, in addition to being a skilled interior designer.”

Jeanne brings a unique experience and background to the Empire team. As the owner of Focus on Design for a quarter century, she has specialized in residential interior design engagements throughout the United States, Mexico and Western Canada.

Kelly has referred several friends and neighbors to the Empire team. She says a neighbor who recently completed a remodel project is very happy.

Since 1992, Empire Remodeling has been dedicated to quality craftsmanship and personal service. Their team can help you meet remodeling goals for Complete Remodels, Kitchens and Baths, Additions, Outdoor Living Spaces, Media Rooms, Home Offices and Master Suites. To learn more and get started, please visit www.empireremodeling.com or call 425-483-2881