Andy and Tina Cole

The Coles’ story began in 2001 when Anthony Builders built their new home, a lovely New American, Postmodern style home; two stories featuring an exterior of brick and stucco and 3,000 square feet inside. The home’s sunroom has been one of the home’s most remarked-upon features – until the Cole’s recent basement transformation, now a multi–faceted rec room.

“I researched a number of builders when we built our home,” explains Tina. “I chose Anthony’s because of their experience and professionalism. Plus, they were extremely family-oriented.”

Tina adds that they were wonderful through the entire building experience. “Friends warned us about building a home – that there would be snags and headaches, and to be watchful of owing more money in the end. Fortunately, there was none of that. Any hitch, whether it was a question about a contractor or home detail, was immediately resolved.”

By October of 2014, the Cole children were now ages 10 and 11 and the time was right to finish the basement. “We didn’t get any other estimates,” adds Tina. “We went right back to Anthony’s and all of the original staff.”

Anthony’s provided three different designs for the 1,800-square foot basement remodel. “We wanted a getaway for both the kids and adults,” explains Tina. “We envisioned comfortable sofas, a big screen TV, and space for everyone to gather.” Final plans included a family room with large wet bar area, play area for the kids, and full bath. An arched ceiling and recessed lighting provided added character to the wet bar. The family room is spacious, with an attractive, but functional, 8-foot drop ceiling and beautiful trim to flow with the home.

Plans came together perfectly. “Anthony’s took care of the contractors, and our main contact, Dave (Jonesy) Jones, was excellent,” adds Tina. “He always kept us in the loop with a call or text. He was more than willing to discuss ideas and explain a better way of doing things. The company’s willingness to offer guidance was a difference-maker.”

During construction, an open area between the two under-counter mini fridges didn’t seem right to Tina. “I just didn’t like the gap. Dave, from Laslo Kitchens, came up with the solution of adding a small, built-in cabinet to bridge the space. It was perfect; I’m sure it should’ve cost us money, but we were never charged.”

Tina reflects on the other extras provided during the course of construction. “For example, Jonesy and Dave (Knecht) moved our heavy slate pool table to accommodate the remodel. They disassembled it, reassembled it, and even repaired one of the previously cracked table legs.”

Another last-minute extra was providing a second coat of sealing to the granite counter top. “I was having company on December 23rd,” says Tina. “Jonesy made sure our contractors came out sealed the granite so the finish would ‘pop.’ In time for the holidays, the granite company, both professional and courteous, worked overtime to get the job done.”

Great chemistry with subcontractors means a lot to any construction firm. “They were proud of their work,” continues Tina. “The plumbers were careful, and the electricians helped with other items in the house. The bricklayers who did my entire wet bar area, about xx square feet, were a phenomenal father and son team.”

Today, the Coles are loving their new space. They can have company over spontaneously without prepping the house for visitors. It’s relaxing. The kids hang out while the adults mingle at the bar or play pool. As one neighbor says: “It doesn’t have a basement feel at all; it just feels like part of your home.”