Janet and Richard Honda purchased their home in 1977 when houses were

quickly replacing pineapple and sugar cane fields in central Oahu. After 41 years, their beloved home was showing signs of its age. Peeling kitchen cabinets, warping floors, difficult-to-clean louvered doors and crumbling popcorn ceilings were some of the indicators that their residence needed attention. The family decided that it was time to modernize their abode.

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The couple worked closely with their Graham Builders’ team and shared their priorities and vision. Their designer helped them value engineer the project so the Hondas were able to attain their “wants” within a comfortable budget.

Part of their vision was to modify the living area to better accommodate the large parties that the couple frequently hosts. Janet is an avid cook and she dreamt of a kitchen that would allow her to interact with guests while at the stove.

To achieve this wish and to increase space, light and flow, Graham Builders removed a wall between the living and dining rooms. A complete overhaul of the kitchen resulted in an expansive space that allows conversation between the cooking area and the rest of the great room. A new massive counter easily accommodates oversized island-style potluck buffet. The renovation also included a pantry large enough to store supplies from the couple’s Costco runs.

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Low threshold showers with barn-style shower doors were part of the Honda’s bathrooms revamp. New cabinets, large mirrors and sleek plumbing fixtures completed the transformation of the baths.

“We are very pleased with the final outcome of our house,” said Janet. “Before and after…Wow! It’s a show stopper!

“The kitchen is totally different and so, so big! I’m glad that we chose the white shiny kitchen cabinets and the slate kitchen appliances and washer/dryer. I love the depth of the kitchen sink with the touch water faucet. Crown moldings throughout the entire house are awesome and makes the house look so expensive!”

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Local design+build contractor Graham Builders has guided hundreds of satisfied homeowners through successful projects for nearly three decades. Homeowners interested in learning more about the ins-and-outs of home construction are invited to attend Graham Builders’ upcoming “Building Your Home for Life” seminar on Saturday, Aug. 4 from 9 to 11 a.m. at the Honolulu Countr Club. Seminars are free. Reservations are required. To register, visit grahambuilders.com or call 593-2808.