Irene Designs, LLC

Living in a 1950's era, 1200 sq ft ranch offered a lesson in space management and re-decorating options. No matter what we did to "lighten up" or improve the kitchen and bath, it didn't seem to answer our needs or desires. After years of attempts at "do-it-yourself" projects we decided to call in a professional. Irene Designs became that professional. From the initial meeting with Irene to the presentation of various plans and solutions to the implementation of our choices we were impressed by the care both Irene and Gene took to make sure they understood our goals. Irene was particularly helpful in guiding us to alternatives to some of our more "out there" ideas (like a spiral staircase to the basement). The transformation of our home is truly amazing. We never knew we had so much room or could bring in so much light. Our kitchen/living room areas have been combined to create a true place to relax, dine, and entertain. Likewise, our bathroom was spaciously and stylishly re-designed. Gene's organization and management of his sub-contractors was efficient and accurate. His frequent communications (almost daily) regarding the project stages and worker schedules were detailed and always on the mark. The quality of the work, from carpentry (Walter), to plumbing (David), to electrical (Sal), to painting/tiling/floor refinishing (Denise & Sean) was excellent. The choice of the suppliers (Benders, Catskill) and materials was equally top-notch. Any changes to the initial design (brought on by the condition of a 60 yer old house or by the changing whims of its owners) were incorporated into the project after a detailed explanation of the work required and the costs associated by the changes. After almost all of our previous interactions with other contractors we felt the options offered and quality of the completed work was dictated by a perceived lack of value of our house. It was as if our home was not worth a commitment to explain all available options or to do the very best work. Irene Designs was the exact opposite of past experience. They started from the idea that we deserved the very best they had to offer and delivered that very best. Without hesitation, we would recommend Irene Designs.

We are highly satisfied with the results of the project completed by Irene’s Designs! We hired Irene to help us remodel the master bathroom and the kitchen. Irene’s designs were creative and sophisticated. She took in consideration our wishes, yet provided valuable suggestions reflecting her research of the latest interior design trends and the best materials that the market offers. It was a true pleasure to communicate with Irene and Gene who were patient, reliable, understanding and attentively listened to our remodeling wishes and needs. Their personable approach alleviated much of the stress that could be associated with any remodeling project. We were very impressed with the company’s high standards for cleanliness while completing the day-to-day work. We have two small children who were mostly at home while the remodeling project was under way; therefore we especially came to appreciate the care and the neatness demonstrated by the workers. All surface areas were meticulously cleaned at the end of each work day and the tools were stored away neatly. Every little detail of the project was perfected and brought to the highest level of customer satisfaction. Thank you!

- Cracked tiles in 2 places - I was told this was done intentionally. - Chipped tile in shower. - Shower leaks out the door. The drain was not tightened, so it also leaks downstairs into my dining room, causing water stains on my sheer blinds. The Shower Door Guys are unable to resolve due to the poor design of the shower area by Irene. - The toilet space is poorly designed, not leaving room for an adult to use the toilet area (master bathroom). Gene lindly offered to fix the issue during last visit, then abruptly revoked your promise. - The tub in the master bathroom is scratched as it was used by Irene Designs' workers to house tools while working. - While Edge Countertops came and scrubbed the shower floor, they did not take care of the scratched sides of the shower pan. This requires repair. - Both bathrooms require caulking work - it was never finished. - Irene Designs damaged the door in my master bathroom. - In the master bathroom, the shower on the left side was scratched during the course of the team's work. - Since the new vanity in the master bathroom was used as a place to house tools, it became scratched and dented. Gene at Irene Designs kindly promised to fix this upon last visit, then abruptly revoked the promise. - The vanity drawers do not close properly. The vanity is not a workbench and obviously should not have been used as such. The drawers worked perfectly when the vanity was shown to me in my garage, when it was removed from the box. My vanity was mis-used as a place for tools, etc. Gene at Irene Designs again kindly offered to fix this during last visit, then revoked promise. - Relative to the door that was replaced that leads to the garage, 1) the wrong color was ordered and it was installed anyway; 2) the lock does not work properly; 3) the door is mis-aligned and does not fix the problem that I needed addressed, which is the gap at the bottom left corner of the door - so a breeze can be felt in that area and light shows through the bottom of the door as there is no seal; 4) the trim was not installed properly leaving the wall looking awful and requiring paint. - My hallway carpeting was stained as the workers were not careful - requires replacement now. - Overall design of the master bathroom was a failure and design services were not reimbursed. - I have been trying since January 2017 to have Irene Designs finish the job and fix their errors. When I asked for resolution, only one time Irene came to my home, un-announced, and I needed to ask her to leave due to her erratic and aggressive behavior toward me. Irene Designs mostly ignores my requests for repairs.

They worked with me to design the tile layout for both the shower area and floor. They were timely, neat and professional. They cleaned up every day and covered the door so effectively that I only had minimal dust to clean in the other room. In addition, they offered suggestions to ensure a waterproof seal on other areas I was working on without charge. My bathroom is on the small side and the new design and fixtures make it appear larger and provide more room for movement. Irene is a skilled designer; she really listens to your ideas.