How Careful Listening, Innovative Design and Masterful Workmanship Made a Dream Come True

John and Amy Gilje originally thought they were going to sell their modest two-story home and build their dream home. But they soon learned that they couldn’t replace the convenient location and established family neighborhood they already had for a price they were willing to pay. So they decided to consider remodeling … and discovered James Barton Design-Build.

They started working with designer Tamra Mueller, in January of 2007. The Giljes were impressed with Tamra’s willingness to listen to their ideas yet offer her own suggestions and thoughts. She worked closely with Amy, helping to select the design elements and make sure the color and materials were exactly what Amy wanted.

“She has an amazing eye; you can’t help but get drawn into her excitement about everything coming together,” said Amy.
With the designs complete, construction began in April, under the supervision of lead carpenter Andy Haglof. Virtually the entire home was gutted in order to transform it into a spacious family home that was completed in October of ‘07.

On the main floor, an impressive new railing system on the front stairway greets all who step in the front door. The kitchen was enlarged with bump-out on the back to make room for informal family dining. We added a comfortable family/media room with an impressive, floor-to-ceiling media wall, separated from the kitchen by double glass doors. The laundry was moved to the second floor, making room for a repositioned half bath, laundry/mudroom area and large closet at the entry from the garage (with a new third garage stall). And a new walk-through between the kitchen and dining room features a butler’s bar with glass doors.

Upstairs, we reconfigured a cramped three-bedroom floor plan to include a new master bedroom over the garage and family room addition, and three large bedrooms with spacious closets and lots of storage. We also relocated and expanded the family bath.
A new, second furnace and zoned heat maintain a uniform, even temperature throughout the house, assuring this family of years of comfort.

On the outside, we matched the new windows and trim to the original home, so that you can’t tell it’s addition. And the inside modifications are so skillfully done, they look like they’ve always been there.

Virtual Tour

2008 Parade of Home Spring Remodelers Showcase
(John and Amy Gilje's residence.)

Photo Gallery

Before and After Photo Gallery

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