Project Transformation: Before & After

Dated Mercer Island Kitchen Remodel Before - Grand Building ConstructionBefore

Cramped, closed-off kitchen with outdated flooring and limited workspace.

Stunning Mercer Island Kitchen Renovation After - Grand Building ConstructionAfter

Bright, open-concept kitchen featuring Calacatta quartz countertops, fluted wood island detail, and engineered hardwood.



Project Overview

The homeowners of this Mercer Island property approached Grand Building Construction with a vision to transform their dated and closed-off kitchen into a bright, modern, and highly functional space. Their primary goals were to create a more open layout, increase natural light, and update the aesthetic to reflect a clean, contemporary style. The existing kitchen felt cramped, and the original island was not optimized for workflow or seating. The challenge was to reconfigure the space without significant structural changes, maximizing both style and efficiency.

Our team worked closely with the clients to develop a design that not only met but exceeded their expectations. The transformation began with a complete demolition of the old kitchen. We then reconfigured the layout, centering the design around a new, larger island featuring a stunning fluted wood panel detail that adds texture and a high-end custom touch. To create the desired bright and airy feel, we paired contrasting wood-grain upper cabinets with sleek, modern lower cabinets. The installation of Calacatta quartz countertops and a matching full-height backsplash around the window reflects and amplifies the natural light, making the entire room feel more spacious and open. The new engineered hardwood flooring seamlessly connects the kitchen to the rest of the home, completing this beautiful and dramatic transformation.

Project Details

Mercer Island Kitchen Remodel
Project TypeFull Kitchen Remodel
LocationMercer Island, WA
Project Cost$100,000+
Project Duration5 Weeks
Permits RequiredYes (Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing)
Year Completed2025

Materials & Finishes Used

  • Countertops: Calacatta quartz countertops by Caesarstone with a polished finish.
  • Backsplash: Full-height matching Calacatta quartz backsplash.
  • Cabinetry: Custom-built upper cabinets in a natural wood-grain finish and lower cabinets in a matte white finish.
  • Island Accent: Custom fluted wood paneling in a dark walnut stain.
  • Flooring: 7-inch wide plank engineered oak hardwood flooring in a natural finish.
  • Cabinet Hardware: Amerock’s “Allison Value” collection in a matte black finish.
  • Sink: Kraus Standart PRO 32-inch 16 Gauge Undermount Single Bowl Stainless Steel Kitchen Sink.
  • Faucet: Delta Trinsic Single-Handle Pull-Down Sprayer Kitchen Faucet in Matte Black.
  • Lighting: LED recessed ceiling lights and under-cabinet lighting.

Our Process

At Grand Building Construction, we follow a proven, client-focused process to ensure every project is a success. For this Mercer Island kitchen, our approach included:

  1. Initial Consultation & Design: We started with an in-depth consultation to understand the homeowners’ vision, needs, and budget. Our design team then created detailed 3D renderings to help them visualize the final space.
  2. Demolition and Preparation: Once the design was approved, our crew carefully demolished the existing kitchen and prepared the space for the new layout, ensuring all plumbing and electrical were ready for the updated design.
  3. Installation: This phase involved the meticulous installation of new flooring, cabinetry, countertops, and appliances. Our skilled craftsmen ensured every detail, from the fluted island paneling to the full-height backsplash, was executed flawlessly.
  4. Finishing Touches: With the main components in place, we focused on the finishing touches, including hardware installation, painting, and lighting fixture placement to bring the whole design together.
  5. Final Walkthrough & Handover: We conducted a final walkthrough with the homeowners to ensure every aspect of their new kitchen met their complete satisfaction before officially handing over the beautiful, completed space.

Permitting & Code Compliance

For this Mercer Island Kitchen Remodel in Mercer Island, WA, we secured mechanical, electrical, plumbing permits to ensure full safety and code compliance. Grand Building Construction manages the entire permitting process from application to final inspection, ensuring your project is completed to the highest standards and meets all local regulations. This gives our clients peace of mind, knowing their renovation is built to last. Learn more in our Remodeling Cost Guide.

Why Choose Grand Building Construction?

Grand Building Construction is a family-owned remodeling company dedicated to providing homeowners in the greater Seattle/Tacoma area with exceptional quality and honest, transparent service. We believe in delivering a final product that you and your family will love for years to come. Our pricing is competitive, and we pride ourselves on our flexibility and commitment to working within your budget without ever compromising on the quality of our work. We understand that a remodel is a significant investment, and we are committed to making the process as smooth and stress-free as possible. For more information on budgeting for your project, check out our remodeling cost guide.

Ready to Start Your Remodel?

Let’s build the kitchen of your dreams. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation.

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Premium Materials & Local Kitchen Design Trends in Mercer Island, WA

In the Pacific Northwest, modern kitchen design is heavily focused on creating warm, light-filled, open-concept spaces that seamlessly connect with the rest of the home. Homeowners in Mercer Island are increasingly choosing premium quartz or quartzite countertops for their durability and elegant marble-like appearance. We pair these stunning surfaces with custom, solid-wood cabinetry featuring soft-close hinges, integrated pull-out pantries, and concealed spice racks to maximize storage efficiency.

To complement the region’s shorter winter days, layered lighting is a critical element of our designs. We strategically install energy-efficient LED recessed ceiling lights, warm under-cabinet task lighting, and statement pendant fixtures over the central island. For flooring, we recommend scratch-resistant, water-resistant luxury vinyl plank (LVP) or engineered hardwood that can handle heavy foot traffic and muddy paws while maintaining a seamless, high-end look throughout your living area.


Planning a project like this one? Learn more about our kitchen remodeling services on Mercer Island and what our team can do for your home.

Kitchen Remodeling FAQs

Do I need a permit for a kitchen remodel in Mercer Island, WA?

Permits are typically required when a remodel involves plumbing, electrical, or layout changes. Grand Building Construction coordinates the permitting process and required inspections as part of your project, so everything is built to code.

Can I stay in my home during a kitchen remodel?

Yes — most homeowners stay in their home during a kitchen remodel. The work area is contained as much as possible, and we plan the sequence with you so you know which days the kitchen will be fully out of service.

What affects the cost of a kitchen remodel?

The biggest factors are the size of the kitchen, whether the layout changes, cabinet and countertop selections, and any plumbing or electrical work. A free in-home estimate is the most accurate way to price your specific project.

Do you help with design and material selection?

Yes. Material selection and planning are part of our process — we help you choose cabinets, countertops, flooring, lighting, and finishes that fit your home and budget before construction begins.

Get a Free Estimate for Your Kitchen Remodel

    What Our Customers Say

    EXCELLENT
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    Based on 94 reviews
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    Lonnie Beal profile picture
    Lonnie Beal
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    Had a nasty looking tub and surround. Got an acrylic wider tub and surround installed, they did the job in about 1.5 days, got a great price on the job. Left the area good and clean, no damage to anything. I would use them again.
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    Shirley Li profile picture
    Shirley Li
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    We hired a contractor in May to remodel our kitchen. He promised the project would be completed in three weeks. Unfortunately, after a month, less than 40% of the work had been completed. He disappeared several times without notice, and our calls and messages often went unanswered. Eventually, we decided to hire another contractor to finish the job. We are incredibly grateful that we found Grand Building Construction. Joshua and his team, Wei and Ken, completed the remaining 60% of our kitchen remodel in just five days. They ordered and installed the countertops and backsplash, corrected the mistakes left by the previous contractor, installed the flooring, completed the painting, and finished the lighting installation. Joshua, Wei, and Ken were hardworking, detail-oriented, professional, and communicative throughout the entire process. They kept us informed every step of the way, and their craftsmanship and dedication exceeded our expectations. They turned what had become a stressful and frustrating experience into a beautiful, finished kitchen that we absolutely love. We truly appreciate everything Joshua and his team did for us. Thanks to Grand Building Construction, we finally have our dream kitchen. We highly recommend them to anyone looking for a reliable, skilled, honest, and trustworthy contractor.
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    Matt Eary profile picture
    Matt Eary
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    I recently had my master bathroom remodeled by Grand Building Construction, and I couldn’t be happier with the results. They helped us transform a dated, inefficient space with a bulky corner tub into a modern, spa-like walk-in shower. I came into this project with a very clear, specific vision of what I wanted, and the team was incredible to work with. They were remarkably flexible and genuinely amenable to my ideas, working closely with me to ensure every detail aligned with the final look I had in mind. Beyond their design flexibility, I was truly impressed by their technical expertise—particularly the care they took with the plumbing rerouting and the advanced waterproofing systems. They kept the project moving efficiently, finishing everything on schedule in just one week. The quality of the finished space—from the precise large-format tile work to the installation of the matte black fixtures—is outstanding. If you’re looking for a professional, collaborative team in the Renton area that listens to your vision and executes it to a high standard, I highly recommend Grand Building Construction.
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    Allison Owen profile picture
    Allison Owen
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    Josh, Wei, Ken and team did a great job on my kitchen remodel. They were very communicative, had fair prices, and were detail oriented. We were able to work together to make our kitchen goals happen. I would not hesitate to hire them again for another construction project! Thank you!
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    Coco Merlin profile picture
    Coco Merlin
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    This review is far overdue. We worked with Emil to renovate our two bathrooms, kitchen, relevel a sunken living room floor, create a pantry, and a few other things for my house Kirkland. Emil and his team provided quality work. Grand Building I has a lot of experience and guided us new homeowners through our extensive renovation. The team was punctual and extremely professional. They always cleaned up at the end of the workday. We would work with them again in the future.
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    Mike Larrenaga profile picture
    Mike Larrenaga
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    I recently hired Grand Building Construction for a kitchen remodeling and I couldn’t be happier. The quality of the workmanship is outstanding, and the team showed great integrity by staying honest about timelines and costs. Communication was clear and frequent, so I always knew what was happening. They arrived on time every day (often working 6 or 7 days a week) and finished the project within the budget, which made the price feel very fair. I especially appreciated how they respected my home and kept the work area clean. Josh and the team were open and communicated frequently throughout, always finding a way to incorporate our design choices. I would definitely work with GBC again and am recommending them to anyone i know looking to do a renovation.
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    azucena solano profile picture
    azucena solano
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    I recently decided to remodel my master bathroom because it was seriously outdated, since the 70s! Working with Emil so far has been a pleasure. We got creative together, figuring out solutions for things that mattered to me. His communication and attention to detail were what I really liked. From the beginning of the project, Emil made sure I was in the loop and part of every decision making process. I really appreciated that, especially since I can be quite picky about what I want. The bathroom is still in progress but so far I absolutely love the transformation! Thank you guys! I must say the work has been on time, super clean, the crew is very respectful and I appreciate their hard work. We're still in the process right now and so far this is my 5 star review.
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    Ayleen Magana profile picture
    Ayleen Magana
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    Josh helped us turn our old tub into a modern walk in shower, and it completely changed the feel of our bathroom. He suggested a tile pattern I never would have thought of, and it looks incredible with the lighting. Every evening before leaving, he cleaned up so well you could barely tell work was being done. The water pressure feels stronger now and the glass enclosure makes the whole room brighter. Couldn’t be happier with how it came out.
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    Jessica Lain profile picture
    Jessica Lain
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    I had them convert my tub into a walk-in shower, and it’s easily the best upgrade I’ve done. The tile work is stunning, and the glass enclosure makes the whole bathroom feel bigger. They even added a rainfall showerhead — total game changer.
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    Daniela Hernandez profile picture
    Daniela Hernandez
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    Grand Building Construction in Bellevue did our bathroom remodel after years of putting it off, and I wish we had done it sooner. The crew removed old flooring, updated the plumbing, and created a gorgeous walk-in shower with glass doors. They also added a double vanity that makes mornings so much easier. The project was seamless, and their communication made the whole process stress-free. Our new bathroom is both practical and stunning.