It happens to even the best of us

We finally wrapped things up at the Gutshall house in Hermosa Beach.  Our part was easy.  We had to demolish-rebuild half of the kitchen island and build/install a very custom, furniture-like dining room built-in. 

This is the kitchen island before (with bar height counter)-

And this is the after (we had to match the existing kitchen doors/color)

And here is the custom designed dining cabinet (paint grade with antique/distressed effects)-

And we also built the wooden piece above the fireplace (not the mantel)- 

And finally, allow me to introduce to you, Ben and Kelly Gutshall - 

Ben and Kelly hired a designer for this remodel project and what was supposed to be a 4 week project that started in January, Juan and I were finally wrapping things up today.  Kelly is also due to give birth to their second child in a couple of weeks.  I couldn't imagine the stress they had to go to through, especially living in the house where the remodel is taking place. I'm impressed that Ben is still beaming that smile after being kicked in the balls so many times. 

Ten years go, Ben built this house from the ground up.  Ben's father is a home builder and was handed down enough knowledge-experience to build this house in Hermosa beach. Great location by the way, a few steps away from the sand and a three minute walk to the pier. Ben personally designed the house himself by combining all his favorite features from different homes in the area.  He hired an architect to put his ideas on paper and created his own team of contractors to build his manly house with one serious man cave. Ben is no longer a bachelor, but a family man now. The manly house where all cool features came together is now a confused mixture of styles.  It's time to make it a home for the new members of the Gutshall family.  It's time to remodel. 

What went wrong this time? How can this happen to a veteran builder?

The original cabinet contractor took a heavy 50% upfront deposit, then said he couldn't get to his project right away because the job is too small and he's too busy with bigger projects.  It took months and a legal process for the Gutshalls to get their deposit back. 

The Gutshalls went with a commercial grade double pane glass fireplace that no one knew how to frame.  After it was finally framed/installed, the unit was burning too hot and attempts to fix it by the manufacturer of the unit all failed. 

I don't know of all of their other delays, but I do know that it was difficult coordinating with all the different contractors, also their electrician was busy with another "larger" project, and trying to receive all their hand-picked materials added time to their project. 

Their budget also spiraled out of control. Instead of going over 10-15%, they more than doubled their original budget, but they said it was mainly due to the problems they had with the fireplace. 

Well, I am happy for them that it is all over and their home is ready in time for their new baby. 

Congratulations Ben and Kelly!  

Thanks for being such good sports for trying to help me make a video about your project.  I know being in front of a camera is a lot for someone to ask for. 

I hope our paths will cross again.