IKB Design & Construction

From beginning to end of the full kitchen remodel Chris, the designer Lucy, and the staff and contractors have been amazing to work with. The attention to detail of every phase of this project was outstanding. IKB takes pride in making sure each phase from demolition to final inspection goes smoothly. I highly recommend IKB for taking on my project. I love the new kitchen. Thank you so much IKB!!!

IKB remodeled our condo, including kitchen, baths, closets and fireplace. Their work was on schedule, of the highest quality and they were a pleasure to work with. The staff are experienced and they work with excellent sub-contractors. They were able to anticipate multiple issues before they occurred and were able to work around them without compromising schedule or quality. We recommend working with them highly and should the opportunity arise, we will certainly go back to them.

I have worked with IKB on five different projects over the past 10 years. I keep returning to them because they are exceptional. I have redone a kitchen and dining area, a master bath, two bedrooms and their baths, and most recently a restoration of my kitchen, living room and family room following a flood. Chris Pandolfo and his team are simply the best. Their service stands out in several ways. First, they are collaborative. They listen carefully to my ideas and wishes. Then they develop design ideas for me to consider and we work through those to my satisfaction. When construction begins, they bring their team of talented staff and subcontractors. On every project we have done they have been on time and on or under budget. They are truly a pleasure to work with. I highly recommend IKB.

We hired IKB to design and renovate 3 bathrooms and a hallway. We stumbled upon them when out and about in Los Altos, having walked by their shop regularly and being impressed with their work, but always in the evening when it was closed. Having considered renovations for some time, we took advantage of the moment to learn about their services, and never looked back. From the get go, we were impressed not just by the quality of the work, but by HOW they approached the project management -- high detail orientation and responsible timeline and budget management, constant and transparent communication, full identification and management of the subcontractors, and most importantly, not starting the project until enough of the materials were in to actually execute it on time! We always knew who would be in the house when and doing what, and the IKB team and all subcontractors were professional and talented. In the end, we're deeply impressed with the quality of the design and execution, as well as that they finished on time, and would confidently recommend their services, whether it be for design, construction or both!

IKB remodeled our kitchen and two bathrooms for us—all as part of one project. We’ve done remodeling before, and even built a house from scratch, so we are familiar with the process. This was the first time we’d used a design/build firm, but this project was complicated to design so we thought it was the right move. Our designer was also our project manager and the project was very well managed. They have excellent sub-contractors and lots of experience working with them. Other than the delays introduced by the pandemic appliance backlogs, everything went extremely well. The result is extremely high quality, and I get the idea that high quality is the only type of project they will undertake.

We hired IKB to remodel two bathrooms and we’re absolutely delighted with the superb results -- as well as their super gracious, friendly, and thoughtful approach and processes from start to finish! When we signed off on the final designs, they gave us a detailed project plan with a clear timeline and clear milestones – then they met almost every milestone on time. When a challenging situation arose, they quickly circled multiple subcontractors back to the project to resolve the issue. When a surprise was uncovered, they gave us a reasonable estimate then quickly got the project back on track. Overall, IKB delivered excellent-quality within budget and almost-on-time. A shout out for their lead contractors, Tyler and Philip, and a solid 10 for their craftsmanship and professionalism from their first day on our project until their last. Simply outstanding. Their teamwork was awesome. Karen was super-conscientious in ensuring that Lucy’s fabulous designs translated to gorgeous bathrooms, in keeping all the subcontractors on schedule, and in keeping us informed every step of the way. Their Covid protocols were thoughtful and thorough, and made us feel completely safe. And last but definitely not least, IKB understands how to work with our city planning department, and our project passed all inspections with flying colors. Absolutely priceless. Overall we were thrilled with IKB’s artistry, professionalism, responsiveness, communications, and superb craftsmanship.

On time, professional, cleaned up every day. I won't ever use anyone else!! Quality workmanship and attentive to every detail. Don't bother to even look elsewhere (no, I am not a family member, but they treat you like one)

I hired IKB to bring significantly more light into my 10 year old Tuscan styled kitchen and eating area. It was a complicated and extremely detail oriented project because we we were not simply gutting the interior. Although some exterior and interior walls and ceilings were being removed, it was necessary to carefully work around radiant heat flooring, existing extensive cabinetry and other interior details that were being retained. The attention to detail and the professional handling of the project was really top notch. When problems arose, as they inevitably do in all construction, IKB was immediately responsive and proactive. We were 8 weeks into a projected 16-20 week project when the state of California shut everything down due to COVID-19. As such, the project proved to be a much longer, even more involved process than anyone could have anticipated, but I am very happy with the outcome. I smile every single time I enter that side of my home. I have and will continue to recommend IKB to friends and family.

This is our third major house project working with IKB for four simple reasons: 1) They are courteous, professional and responsible (something we have especially appreciated in regards to COVID safety protocols). 2) The subcontractors they use are top-notch, both in terms of the quality of work they do as well as as being trustworthy in our home. 3) They have always finished on schedule if not before, and do an excellent job communicating what's happening when. 4) The work they do is outstanding, both in terms of quality and durability. They've remodeled our kitchen as well as our master bedroom, family room and laundry room, added a bedroom, remodeled three bathrooms and added an office. We highly recommend IKB Design and Construction!

Highly recommended – our third IKB remodel! The only changes we had made to our kitchen in 40 years were to replace appliances. We now needed to fix both usability issues and general wear and tear. There were no corner cabinet pullouts, the refrigerator stuck out, a supply cabinet could be relocated, we wanted a dishwasher, everything was worn… After doing our homework, we went straight to IKB. They did our last remodel, including a bathroom refresh, skylights and window/door upgrades. They also designed and built our guest cottage. Both had been completed on time and within budget, with few change orders, and we were quite happy with the quality. The kitchen design was a collaboration among Elena at IKB, Joel and myself. It took longer than we had expected, mostly because the desired downdraft ventilation system proved infeasible, but we all were pleased with the results. The new layout made an 8’ x 10’ kitchen feel spacious, with enough elbow room for two! Construction began the first week of February. In mid-March we thought we’d be back in the kitchen on schedule, but the lockdown stopped work for two months. COVID-19 construction rules brought complications and delays, but the kitchen was completed in early August. What do we love most about it? The look, elbow room, dirty dishes stowed in the dishwasher, induction range, counter, tile, better-fitting refrigerator, cabinets, big single sink and pullouts and lazy Susan. Would we do it again? Yes, but hold the pandemic!

Over the last 13 years we have used IKB for 3 major remodeling projects: our master bathroom; our kitchen; and now a guest bathroom. We keep coming back to IKB for several reasons. While IKB is certainly not the least expensive option out there, they are the most reliable you could imagine. All of their contractors and subcontractors are top professionals, their site manager is on top of any and all issues that might come up. Communication is always spot on, clear concise and timely. For our latest project, adding a guest bathroom, we needed to carve out a space for this because our property was already at its maximum square footage for our town building code. IKB was able to figure this puzzle out in a very elegant manner. The last word I can say here is that IKB took the stress out of our remodeling projects, updating our beautiful and functional 60+ year old house and keeping our marriage intact during the process.

We have worked with IKB for many years, and trusted them to help us with a complete kitchen and master suite remodel, as well as other smaller projects. The entire staff is knowledgeable and has excellent design sense. They know the best subs, and have a great inhouse team of Tyler and Keith. If you want quality and attention to detail, IKB is your best choice.

I was recently contacted by Chris Pandolfo, the new owner of IKB, to see if I needed any work done. It just happened to be the same day I was having my kitchen faucet replaced because it had sprung a leak and had caused water damage to the bottom of my cabinet. I asked them to see if they could repair the cabinet floor, They came over, inspected the damage, and took measurements. Within a week I heard back that they had a new wood floor for my cabinet to overlay the damage. They offered to install it for FREE!! Keith came over and did the job in about 15 minutes. My cabinet looks as good as new! THANKS to Chris & Keith and whomever cut & supplied the wood!. I loved their work when they remodeled my condo and they are obviously still the best! I've been in my remodelled condo for 3 1/2 years now and I still LOVE it. I've actually enjoyed sheltering in place here!

IKB came up with a creative plan for the remodel of our dated kitchen area, The design plan included adding a second sink area, raising the height of the cabinets, and changing the location of the entry to the kitchen from the hallway. During the remodel, the team helped us set up a temporary kitchen which even included a sink and disposal as well as our old refrigerator. The crew was always on time, efficient, helpful and kind. The subs IKB hired were great, especially the cabinet maker and flooring company. IKB was also very responsive when we had something unexpected happen or had questions. The main issue that keeps this from being a 5-star review is that it took IKB quite a bit longer to start our project than we had anticipated. We are delighted with the results of our kitchen remodel and so enjoy spending time in the new space.

We are very happy with the outcome of our project. Our project included three separate parts, a total redo of the fireplace, a replacement of the cook top and hood, which included redoing the backsplash, and the replacement of an outside counter. Throughout the project, IKB kept us informed of what was happening and what to expect. During the design phase of the fireplace, I felt that Lucy did a great job in listening to us on what we wanted and the vibe we were trying to create. My wife felt so comfortable working with Lucy, she had Lucy help her find a couple of light fixtures for the kitchen. And even when an unexpected problem arose while doing the fireplace tear down, they kept us informed and had a solution quickly available. All of the craftsmen who worked on our project were very professional and always left the job site clean. And when giving potential options, they always provided both the pro and con of each.

We had a wonderful experience with the entire IKB Team, start to finish. They are a wonderful group of people. We found it amazing that the subcontractors they brought in were very good at their craft and a pleasure to have in our home. When you decide to live in your home during a remodel, IKB makes the hard moments as easy as possible. They kept us informed every step of the way, were always prompt and delivered us two beautiful bathrooms. We had such a great experience we then extended the project into fabulous new flooring, new cabinet faces, doors, a fireplace and surround and more! We couldn’t recommend them enough!

It was wonderful to work with IKB on our kitchen and bath renovation. This was our second project with IKB, so we had no doubt that everything would turn out well. The project progressed smoothly through the initial consultation, the design phase, and the construction. Elena (architect) made great suggestions and guided our decision making. The responsiveness of the entire IKB staff and subcontractors to questions and concerns alleviated any worries. They were all so professional and talented. The project was on budget and on schedule due to IKB’s diligence and attention to detail.

We have done 4 major projects with IKB, the most recent having been a complete gut/remodel of our master bath area, closet, and a powder room. We had previously worked with Ilona and Keith. The construction phase of this last project was done with the new owner, Chris Pandalfo, and we found the experience to be just as smooth as the previous ones. Working with the IKB designers, we explained what we had in mind and they presented various options for us to consider. We were steered through the selection process of the myriad pieces of hardware, finishes and colors in a manner that left us feeling confident that we had made the correct choices. During the construction phase we were always advised what was next on the schedule and kept apprised of any issues that were uncovered (e.g. minor dry rot under the old shower). We chose to remain in the house during the construction and we never had any qualms about allowing the IKB personnel and the subs to have full access to our home during construction. The team consistently left the site in immaculate condition. The quality of the work is first-rate and IKB was willing to work with us to ensure that everything was perfect. We are very pleased with the final result, as we have been with all of the previous projects.

They were very honest in what needed to be done to my shower. Worked fast and all the subcontractors were excellent. Left everything clean. I am now talking to them about doing other projects..

Hired IKB in 2018 for a complete design and remodel of a master bathroom and to re-finish a dining room cabinet with custom eglomise glass doors. IKB did impeccable work with the finest workmanship, on-time and on budget. We couldn't be happier with the outcome. The staff was a pleasure to work with. All the contractors were professional, courteous, and respectful of our time and property. IKB took responsibility and fixed a minor issue that happened after the completion of the project. We very much appreciate the accountability and follow through. IKB has our highest recommendation. They take pride in their work.

IKB renovated our basement with an updated kitchenette, bathroom, laundry room and stone feature wall. They also installed a floating TV cabinet, a custom sofa and some rolling cabinets for special equipment we use daily. They also painted throughout, installed cabinetry in my daughter's room, and epoxied the floor or our machine room. We were very pleased with the quality of the finishes and work.

IKB helped us start-to-finish with a project that really transformed the way we use our house. We reconfigured a kitchen and living room space that was underutilized before and now is the most welcoming, open, family-centered space! Of the many things that we appreciated was that IKB, being a design-to-build firm, had us pick out nearly everything (fixtures, lights, hardware, appliances, tiles, etc) before our project even started. This helped things go smoothly throughout the project as we didn't have to make rushed decisions along the way. The GC's and other builders on site could not have been better to work with! We truly enjoyed having the guys at our home. They were always 100% courteous, friendly, and a true pleasure to have around. The design team at IKB gave us a end-product that totally fit our wants and needs and exceeded our expectations. We've lived in the new space for almost a year now and are very pleased with all aspects of the work that was done.

IKB exceeded all expectations with our bathroom remodel. From the very beginning to the on-time completion, the IKB team was on top of every detail with their professionalism and expertise. We wanted a spa-like bathroom that would also meet our needs as we aged and they delivered. It is beyond beautiful, but still very functional. The whole project was an outstanding success. We really enjoyed working with Ilona, Julie and the IKB team. We highly recommend IKB.

Professional, detail-oriented team. We used IKB to do some overall upgrades to our home (new floors, improve lighting everywhere, upgrade the kitchen, new cabinets & painting the whole interior of our home). They listened to our needs, created very customized plans, and brought in all the best sub-contractors to get it done. It was timely and well-organized. Very high quality work and attention to detail.

Ilona Lindauer leads a fantastic and very professional team at IKB. I loved the work they did on my condo renovation. Julie Park designed a stunning bathroom, and a really fun kitchen. Ilona and Julie really listened to me and carefully planned and designed a a whole new home for me. Keith Wilson was a consummate problem solver. They all work very well together. The results were beautiful and the experience was very pleasant.

This is a very experienced and cohesive crew. From the design to construction, I can always feel the precious details. Their excellent management makes me confident and unforgettable. Especially after the completion of the project, they still adhere to high quality services. The price is reasonable, and absolutely worth it.

Because of past experiences, I was putting off our latest project. The ghosts of contractors past kept haunting me. Years ago IKB did a small reupholstering job for me, so I thought why not give them a call. Boy was I glad I did! The entire process was such a change from all the rest. It started with a detailed questionnaire and looking at pictures so they could get a better idea of exactly what our "style" was. Next came before pictures and measurements of our rooms. Over the course of several weeks design drawings and specific fixtures/finishes were finalized. Unlike all of our other remodels, we knew exactly what was going to be used and how it would look BEFORE it went out for bids. As a result, the actual construction phase went smoothly. All of the contractors have had a long working relationship with IKB. They are true craftsmen. We were extremely impressed with their attention to detail and quality of workmanship. Best of all, for the first time, our project came in on schedule and on budget! If we had been smart, all of our projects would have been done by Ilona and her crew at IKB Design. They get a great big THANKS!

We use our kitchen nonstop, so the idea of a kitchen remodel made us very nervous—in fact, we put off the project for months. But all of our fears were unfounded. We were in the best hands with IKB. IKB gets our highest rating because of their vast knowledge, professionalism, attention to detail, helpful and friendly staff, talented subcontractors, terrific scheduling, and nonstop communication. They did what they said they would do. If there was a change, they let us know. They made suggestions and helped us make kitchen design decisions that were in line with the design of the rest of the house. They helped us figure out what we wanted, remaining open to the suggestions we made. They helped us set up a satellite kitchen with our old fridge and a hot plate so that we could continue cooking and preparing meals as always. As unforeseen problems arose, including needing a new roof and fixing a gas leak, they were on the spot implementing solutions. We don't know what we would have done without IKB to get the problems solved! IKB said the kitchen remodel would take 2 months, and it was done on time, exactly when they said it would be. Thanks, IKB!

I hired IKB to remodel my kitchen which was original to the house and approximately 60 years old. They also refinished the hardwood floors throughout the entire house as well as painted the entire house. I really like the design and build concept as I was able to work with the same team throughout the project. The designer made it so easy as she understood my style and would present me with ideas and materials to choose from. The entire IKB team was great to work with, always helpful, on time and very responsive. The onsite project manager was terrific and ensured that I knew what was happening every step of the way. The team really worked hard to ensure that I was in the house in time for Christmas which was 3 weeks earlier than the target completion date.

We were extremely pleased with the capable and professional work performed by IKB in the remodel of our home in the Silicon Valley. Right from the outset, they listened very carefully to what we wanted to achieve both in the physical layout of our home as well as the design aesthetic. The entire decision-making process was very efficient and we appreciated that they made sure we weren’t overwhelmed by the task of choosing the multitude of things that actually go into a home. Because the scope of our project encompassed the whole house, we had an opportunity to evaluate the workmanship of their entire team of subcontractors. In every case, the work product was excellent and the people themselves a pleasure to deal with. The entire team at IKB has great communication skills and they always kept us in the loop throughout the many months of our remodel. We were particularly impressed by their ability to manage our expectations so we never felt there were any surprises. We always knew that IKB’s goal was to make sure our house was beautifully designed, well constructed, and that that we were happy with the results. IKB delivered a superior service, on budget, on time (even a bit early), and always with a great attitude and sense of humor. We would highly recommend IKB for any project, large or small.

We recently completed an extensive three-year full house remodel with IKB. For a variety of reasons, we chose to complete our project in several phases, which allowed our family to live in the house during construction. Each phase was completed on time and on budget. The results are better than we could have ever envisioned. Our home was built in the late '90s and needed to be updated. The designers came up with plans for every room that were practical yet showed great style and flair. They were sensitive and responsive to both our lifestyle and unique needs. At every turn, they generated creative solutions and ideas. We also utilized IKB’s furnishings services as each phase was completed. The design staff procured artwork, furniture and accessories to add the finishing touches to each room. IKB maintained an excellent relationship with us throughout the project. The on-site builder was responsible, always on time, and respectful of our space. He communicated daily with us about the progress of the project and any decisions that needed our attention. He ensured that our house was kept clean and as dust-free as possible throughout the course of construction. As our project progressed, we felt that we were dealing with friends, as opposed to strictly business partners. In addition to demonstrating great craftsmanship, IKB upheld the highest integrity. Over the course of the project, all of the employees were hardworking, honest and committed to the final product. IKB was receptive to feedback and demonstrated flexibility with our family’s busy schedule. Thank you IKB for transforming our house into a home that elicits a WOW response from our friends and family.

IKB provided superb service from design through demolition and remodeling - they made the whole project truly enjoyable. This was an extensive remodel of an existing master bathroom plus reconfiguration of closets to create a beautiful and functional master bath and closet. IKB's designers are very talented and were able to translate our desires into a beautiful space down to the tiniest details. IKB is supremely well-organized with everything ordered in advance and schedules carefully coordinated for very efficient project completion. The project was completed on time and on budget, they were prompt and thorough is resolving the inevitable problems. Every person at IKB is excellent with great skills and great customer service. Everyone we worked with was friendly and trustworthy. IKB made a large remodel easy.

We had an old barn on our property. It was in terrible condition and falling down. We wanted to make it good enough so that it could be a site for a solar array. Because the barn was built many years ago, the city would not let us "remodel" it and we re quires to tear it down. We then decided to make it a bit more functional, serving two purposes. Half the building was supposed to be a base for entertaining in our garden and the other half was to be a workshop. We had an architect, not connected to IKB, draw up plans. He delivered to us a functional design meeting the parameters that we gave him. We then took the plans out to bid. IKB was one of the builders that we asked to quote. They took the plans, which were sterile, and turned it into the building we really wanted, but were not able to articulate to the architect. IKB was a pleasure to work with, They come up with many interesting ideas, all of which could be implemented within our budget constraints. We debated many of them and ended up using most. The company was prompt and were very attentive to detail. The quality of their work was exceptional. I would use them again and recommend them frequently.

When we moved from our home to a retirement community we needed someone to help me arrange the furniture and our art pieces. I contacted IKB and they were very helpful. They arranged our furniture and art pieces and helped me select additional furniture and art pieces. Their selections made our home look beautiful and we have received many complements from friends and neighbors. They were very professional and I would highly recommend them.

My husband and I have done two projects with IKB. The first was a freestanding guest cottage and the second was some remodeling work that included redoing our master bath. In each case, IKB handled both the design and the construction. During the design phase they were very open to working with our ideas, rather than forcing us into a particular style. They also encouraged us to consider enlarging the cottage slightly, which was well worthwhile as it made it much more usable and gave it a spacious feeling. During the design phase they were also very detail oriented, which allowed them to provide construction bids and schedules that they were able to meet. During construction, IKB respects the fact that the client is living in the house. Before construction starts you have a conversation where pets, parking, construction access, etc. are discussed and rules agreed upon. While someone from IKB is not onsite at all times during construction, they will respond immediately if there are any questions or issues. Because of the detailed planning on our two projects, we rarely had any change orders. Between them, we probably had five (some of which we instigated), which increased costs approximately 1%. The quality of their work is first class. Both they and their subcontractors are master craftspeople and take pride in the work they do. They also were quite willing to work with an outside glass and tile artist who did a custom piece for us that was incorporated into the bathroom tile design and installation for our remodeled bathroom. To conclude, I strongly recommend them.

IKB recently completed a total kitchen design and remodel for me. Working with Ilona Lindauer, IKB’s Founder and President, and her great team was a pleasure from start to finish. Highlights of their excellent service included: 1. They listened carefully to my ideas for the project and added their professional expertise to improve on my ideas and make them a reality. 2. They provided several creative design options, all of which were excellent. 3. The cost and time estimates were carefully prepared and explained. Each stage of the project was completed on time and on budget. There were no excuses or surprises. 4. Their attention to detail and quality was impressive. 5. IKB has a great relationship with its subcontractors (electrical, plumbing, painting, cabinet, tile), all of whom did excellent work. 6. They were totally responsive to my questions and requests throughout the project. 7. Ilona and her team were great fun to work with. They conveyed genuine enthusiasm for the job and pride in their work. I have done several projects with other firms. IKB was by far the best. I love my new kitchen!

We have employed the professionals at IKB multiple times, the most recent last summer. The highest recommendation I can give is NO surprises. They did what we agreed they would do at the cost they said they would do it and in the time frame they said they would do it, and they cleaned up every evening so no fuss, no muss. If you need work done from design to build to all the finishing touches you won't find anyone better.

IKB has done several projects for me over the years. The most dramatic were remodels of a 1950's era bathroom and kitchen. The interior bath was gutted and replaced with a bright open space in spite of having no wall windows. The ceiling was opened up. A motorized skylight and fan were added for ventilation. The contemporary finishes are timeless and easy to clean. The most recent project was installation of a backyard fire pit. As always, I'm pleased with the completed job. IKB always listens to what I want, offers additional recommendations, and provides visuals to help me see the end product before we start. I highly recommend IKB for home design and construction. The work is high quality. Costs are known and agreed to in advance. And work is completed in a timely fashion.