Meet GUEST BLOGGER Shelley Bujdos. An award-winning designer, Shelley has spent the past 15 years helping Dover customers create inspired and personal living spaces in their homes. Talented and inventive, Shelley manages the entire design process from redesign and layout, to selecting the right finishes, products and design elements that add personality and wow factor. 
GUEST BLOG POST: CoTY Award Winner: First Place, Whole House
Rarely do we get the chance to renovate an entire home. This project gave us that exciting opportunity: When the remodel was complete, our team at Dover had literally refinished every inch of the home. Not only was the project large in scale—it was big in satisfaction: The homeowner was an absolute pleasure to work with. She knew exactly what she wanted and we worked side by side to create the beautiful family home she envisioned. Here’s the recap:
Built in 1928, the home had seen a recent addition that evoked a contemporary vibe, which was awkward, as there was no continuity between the original home and the new space. The homeowner wanted a fresh, updated look, an efficient new layout and an inviting feel with Nantucket Island-inspired charm.
The existing kitchen lacked an overall functional layout and flow. Our new open floor plan included a large walk-in pantry, six feet of refrigeration and two islands. The homeowner selected classic marble countertops to complement the white custom cabinetry. Roll out trays, including toe kick drawers, add to the efficiency found throughout the new space. Lighted glass display cabinets and French doors leading to the patio complete the dramatic new design.
As we worked, structural problems were uncovered between the original mudroom and new kitchen addition (which we managed as we renovated the mudroom). Floor joists were reinforced in the ceiling to support the relocated second-floor laundry room. This space was designed with loads of extra storage and smart built-ins for everyday function.
The original living area off the kitchen featured an expansive wall of windows for natural light, yet the room still felt drab. Our renovation carried the homeowner’s New England design influence throughout this first-floor family room and the adjoining dining room, with painted cabinetry and custom millwork. Throughout the entire home, we refinished the original hardwood floors, installed custom 8-panel doors and finished with a fresh coat
of paint.
In addition to refinishing work upstairs we also gutted and remodeled three bathrooms: The master included a custom tile work in the shower, two vanities and a built-in linen closet complete with mirrored finish. We used natural stone surfaces and subway tiles on the floor in the kids’ bathrooms to reflect the home’s 1920’s charm. And these are just a few of the project highlights!
I’m proud that we created a stunning home that is as beautiful as it is functional. While the design won an award for our team at Dover, the project delivered for this family their forever home. And I’m lucky to have been a part of it.
Best Regards,
Shelley Bujdos
