Kitchen and Fireplace Remodel - Carmel Valley, San Diego

Location: Carmel Valley, San Diego

Project Type: Kitchen Remodel, Fireplace

Completed: 2019

THE PROBLEM

This Carmel Valley family had lived in their home for 25 years. Over that time they had remodeled the kitchen themselves a few times — and it worked. But the island created a tight corner that made it hard for multiple people to move around during big meals. The fireplace was dated. And after decades of DIY, they were finally ready to hand it to a professional and do it right.

THE SOLUTION

San Diego Remodeling Pros redesigned the kitchen to eliminate the awkward island corner — creating a layout with real flow where multiple people can cook, prep, and move around comfortably at the same time. The fireplace was remodeled alongside the kitchen, bringing a fresh, updated look to the living space.

Designer Susan Matanguihan guided every material selection as a true perfectionist. Mike brought it all together with his signature positive attitude, sense of humor, and an accessibility the homeowners describe as having him on speed dial.

THE RESULT

Every morning. Every evening. An aha moment. A kitchen so beautiful that neighbors asked to host special occasions there.

WHAT THEY HAD TO SAY

★★★★★

"Every time we come into this kitchen in the morning or in the evening, it's an aha moment. It's wonderful. Everything is where it should be. There isn't a thing about it we would ever change. We've been here for 25 years and remodeled this kitchen a few times ourselves — but right now, this is so much better. The people Mike had working for him were amazingly sweet. They cleaned up every single time they left, and they would bring treats for our dog, Ginger. Susan is one of the sweetest ladies I have known in any kind of business — a real perfectionist, and seeing her work with Mike was a joy. She came across as almost being your best friend right off the bat. Mike's best thing is his sense of humor and his sense of 'Yeah, I can do that. We can get it done.' Always with a smile, always with a positive attitude. He ended up saving our marriage. Friends and neighbors watched what was going on, and when it was over, a couple of families wanted to have a special occasion here because it was so good for entertaining."

— Jim and Kathy, Carmel Valley, San Diego