First Impressions - Pros and Cons

“…Lasting Impression

Chris’ commitment to quality doesn’t stop when the project is complete. He stands behind his work and has come back more than a few times for minor adjustments and even making repairs that most contractors would probably not even return calls about.”

Full Letter

Recording a testimonial for Chris Wright is just about the easiest assignment I’ve been given in a while.

First Impressions

My wife and I purchased an older home in the Butler Tarkington neighborhood that was screaming for a remodel. The designer we used recommended Chris to us. Being first time homeowners, we were a little over the top on covering all our bases. We met with Chris, as well as 3 other contractors. Chris came in right in the middle of the pack price-wise. However, Chris went the extra mile of taking us to see some of his previous projects. That, coupled with the fact that our personalities meshed with his much more than the others made our decision very easy. He was professional, yet laid back, and exhibited a confidence in making the project the best it could be.

Pros and Cons

The project consisted of a complete remodel of the kitchen, two baths, installation of slate flooring, new front door, plus miscellaneous electrical, drywall, and structural repairs.

The major downside of the process was just the disruption of everyday life, since we opted to remain in the house for the duration of the project. Once you get used to the shock of living in a construction zone with no kitchen and a makeshift bathroom in the basement you sort of feel like you’re on a never-ending camping trip. Chris and his guys made the whole situation as palatable as it possibly could have been. They were extremely courteous during the many days that I was working out of the house, to the extent that I probably got on their nerves more than they did mine.

The only other con is just the extension of time that was incurred from finding structural and electrical damage after the walls were torn out. It never even crossed my mind to question Chris’ appraisal of damage and the extra work that needed to be done. He extensively explained what was wrong and was quick to give options when unforeseen things happened, as they always do.

Suffice it to say, the many pros far outweighed the cons. The most obvious benefit can be seen anytime you walk into one of Chris’ projects. His skill and craftsmanship are impeccable. The attention to detail he has is unbelievable. I witnessed countless times that corners could have been cut and they never were. We felt we got way more than our money’s worth on the project.

Trust becomes a huge issue when you, in a sense, begin “living” with strangers for a big chunk of time. Early on I realized I could trust Chris implicitly with virtually anything. That holds true for Stropes, Jonny, and Jason as well.

Even though we were working with a very talented designer/architect (Matt Harris), Chris was also invaluable with his input of supplemental ideas and optional ways to get to the same finished product. His access to different and higher grade materials was also a huge benefit.

Lasting Impression

Further evidence are the times when I try to undertake a small project on my own and I end up calling him to “use his brain” again. Secretly, I think he’s just afraid I’m going to burn down his handiwork. Seriously, my respect for Chris is huge. Whenever we decide to do another project, there’s absolutely no question who to call. Having the opportunity to forge a relationship with someone like Chris goes beyond just getting a nice set of cabinets installed. In all the books and articles we read, they always say, “He’s your contractor, not your friend”. I guess we have to respectfully disagree with that.

We would gladly be available to answer any questions or concerns that potential clients may have.

Bryan & Jane Gentry