Elmhurst couple transform 1978 tri-level with the help of DESIGNfirst Builders

George and Cathy LeVeille have raised children, built long-lasting friendships and found comfort in the numerous conveniences that surround their Elmhurst home. But, after 40 years, housing trends evolve and lifestyle needs change.

"In 2011, we had family members who were going to be staying with us for an extended time and we decided we needed more living space," said Cathy LeVeille. "We attended a home show to learn more about remodeling and get ideas and met DESIGNfirst owner, Tony Slade. We were very impressed with Tony and scheduled an appointment."

Itasca-based DESIGNfirst Builders provides a comprehensive design/build experience. In addition to architectural design, floor plan creation/revision, permit acquisition and construction, each DESIGNfirst client has a personal designer, project manager, interior designer and customer service advocate assigned to them.

The LeVeilles worked with their DESIGNfirst team to add a 650-square-foot master bedroom suite with tray ceiling, large walk-in closet and private bathroom with walk-in shower to their existing home.

"Many of our clients are repeat customers like the LeVeilles," said Tara Soderstrom, director of marketing and client relations for DESIGNfirst Builders. "Our all encompassing approach and dedication to customer service and satisfaction lead to happy clients who work with us again as life's projects emerge."

The LeVeilles returned to DESIGNfirst Builders in 2014 to create Cathy's dream kitchen. Moving walls was just the start in the redesign. The couple visited the company's 14,000-square-foot showroom where they selected flooring, countertops, cabinetry and lighting and collaborated with designers to create a custom backsplash.

"I worked as a chef, enjoy cooking and wanted a kitchen where I could work," Cathy said. "I had collected recipes over the past 25 years from family, friends and co-workers and wanted to display them. DESIGNfirst created an acrylic backsplash with all of the recipes behind the cooktop. It's such a meaningful centerpiece to our kitchen."

The LeVeilles most recent project was this year when they worked with their DESIGNfirst team to finish their basement by adding hardwood flooring, a bar, built-in sliding shelves with hidden storage and a full bathroom with walk-in shower.

"The quality, professionalism an communication we experienced on our first project in 2011 is the same as it was when we finished the basement this year," Cathy said. "We refer friends and family looking to remodel to DESIGNfirst Builders and are happy to show our home to anyone interested in the process."

The company, established in 2006, specializes in kitchen, bathroom and basement remodeling, home and room additions and custom home building. Clients are all enrolled in a cooking club where they can take free monthly cooking classes at the company's on-site cooking school. Additional client benefits include, a referral program, Abt discount, special client events and promotions. Financing options are available through preferred partners.

To learn more about remodeling your home and schedule a free consultation, visit www.designfirstbuilders.com or call (630) 250-7777.