CVI Design

We had our main deck completely demolished and rebuilt we had a second-story deck demolished, a door removed and replaced with drywall; we had a smaller lower level deck rebuilt; we had the slope of a curved bridge modified and refinished. I highly recommend working with Rufino Labra and Labra Design + Build. The most important aspect of our project was demolishing our aging cedar deck overlooking a ravine, adding 120 square feet to it, and adding deck lighting which we had never had. We also needed an unused (except by the raccoons) smaller deck area demolished, the door removed and replaced with drywall. Additionally, we had a curved bridge over a gully leading to our entrance on which we wanted the slope modified to make the tie-in to the landing gentler. Initially we were looking at Trex or Azec (both "faux" wood) for the deck but after some investigation discovered cumaru, a Brazilian hardwood similar to ipe. Rufino was the only contractor we contacted to investigate this possibility, and offered to do the deck in the cumaru for the price of Azec, and included the lighting package at no additional charge. We were also initially considering glass railing panels, but knowing that we live in a wooded area and feed the local birds, Rufino mentioned that the birds might fly into the glass and get hurt or killed, so he gave us the option of stainless steel cable, and we are so glad we opted for that! The finished deck is spectacular! The woodworking detail is amazing. Rufino also offered to install soffit lights at no charge because he knew we would love them. We do! Rufino and his crew showed up every day on time, they worked efficiently and with enormous attention to detail. He has a degree in architecture from Lawrence Tech, so in addition to being an incredibly skilled craftsman he is also artistic and talented. He was in constant communication on any changes or issues (they found carpenter ants had chewed up a lot of the old deck and advised us to call an exterminator -- we did!). They all really went above and beyond, they finished within the time Rufino had estimated despite some rainy days, and we are enormously pleased with the results. We will definitely work with Labra Design + Build in the future.

We are so very grateful to Rufino and the crew at Labra Design Build for creating a sleek and streamlined kitchen for our mid-century home! Rufino’s experience with building, knowledge of engineering and design set him apart from other designers and contractors with whom we previously consulted. On his first visit, Rufino surveyed our space, listened to our ideas, and then went straight to the basement to examine the structural support below the kitchen. He identified some areas of concern and made sure to remedy those in our plan. The renderings Rufino developed helped us visualize possible changes and weigh various options considering our budget. Revisions were made along the way until an efficient, open space with increased light and optimal storage was designed. Rufino thought of creative solutions. In lieu of removing a wall which would have required a costly new overhead beam, he offered an idea of incorporating glass panels within the wall to open the space. Custom wood cabinets were created for an area in which standard cupboards wouldn’t fit. Rufino rearranged ceiling lights, added ambient lighting below cabinets, and rebuilt a soffit along the entry to the kitchen to increase light. Choosing the backsplash to complement our existing pewabic tile was a challenge that Rufino patiently guided us through. During the 3 month renovation, Abe, Zach, and Rufino worked meticulously with least disruption possible. They isolated their workspace to reduce debris in other areas of the house. Rufino made sure all components were properly installed. For example, after the flooring was laid, he insisted that the installer return to rearrange a few of the boards making a more seamless transition from kitchen to existing dining room flooring. The transformation of our space is remarkable and better than we could have imagined!! We enjoy walking into our kitchen every morning, having increased work space, storage, and the ability to entertain family and friends. The experience has been life changing. We highly recommend Labra Design Build for any home project!

Working with Labra Design Build was a pleasure. Not only did I get the mudroom of my dreams, the process was painfree, from design through execution. Listens to clients. At first I was considering a much larger project – knocking down a wall between the laundry room and den to make a huge multi-purpose room. Even though it would have brought a bigger paycheck, after listening to how we use our home, Rufino suggested we didn’t need such a dramatic change. Simply tearing out a closet in our existing footprint, adding a bench and storage would fit our needs. And he was right! Attention to detail. Rufino made sure we had a working laundry facility throughout the project. I was only without the washer and dryer for 3 days during the floor tiling. Otherwise, if was back in place and functional each evening. And I didn’t even ask for that! He anticipated my needs without me asking! Excellent communication. Rufino is responsive, answering calls, emails and texts quickly. He kept us informed of the days and times when he’d be working in our home, and always arrived as advertised. Professional Colleagues. Everyone on the team has Rufino’s same dedication to professionalism. The Electrician, tile layer and assistant who worked on the project were all hard working, courteous and respectful of our home and our family. They even greeted our barking dog with pets and affection to calm him down. Way above the call of duty! Designer’s Eye. Rufino helped me make a lot of decisions about the overall look of the room. From offering opinion on the tile and paint colors, to the lovely black walnut countertop, I couldn’t have done it without Rufino’s expertise! Bottom line: I can truly say the project went flawlessly. Not even one hiccup, and no budget changes. We are thrilled with our new mudroom and already dreaming about what’s next!

I found Mr. Labra online quite a few years ago while searching for someone to build a bookcase / wall unit. I reviewed his website and was extremely impressed with the creativity of his designs. Back then, I was just in the idea stage and Mr. Labra was very helpful (even though some of my ideas were out there) and not pushy at all. Due to my inability to decide on what I really wanted, I essentially ignored the project for quite some time. Cut to a few years down the road, I finally made up my mind. I emailed Mr. Labra once again. Right off the bat, he was a consummate professional. He quickly gave me an estimate for my "plans" which was on par with other contractors. What set him apart from the other guys was how he made me a part of the process. Other contractors I contacted listened to my plans and gave me a quote. He worked with me every step of the way (i.e. he listed the different types of wood that he could use, the pros and cons of each and why he felt one was the best fit for me) to give me the best outcome. He also voiced his own opinion when he felt it was warranted. When some of my ideas went against what he felt create a quality product, he let me know how he could tweak things to get it back on track. But, at the same time, he let me know that it was my decision and didn't force me to follow his path. It did take a while for it to get done. But, once the bookshelf was completed, it was impeccable. You can see the pride he takes in his craftsmanship (while installing the piece, he spent ten minutes fidgeting with a door to make sure it was not a millimeter out of place). There are so many little details I could go into that I've noticed on the unit that make it stand out. Needless to say, I am beyond impressed with Mr. Labra's skills (both in design and build) and character. I would recommend him wholeheartedly.

We hired White Pine Construction and Design to complete a renovation to the first level of our home including our kitchen, bathroom, entryway, and laundry room. We had a vision and some ideas, but were completely overwhelmed on how to make it happen and wondered if it was even possible. White Pine to the rescue! Lindsey was eager to get started by listening to our hopes, dreams, and pain points and worked hard to put together an overall design and floor plan that is beautiful and functional. We were amazed throughout the design process by her insight and creativity as she created a layout that works perfectly for our family and was beyond what we thought could be possible. Kallie was a dream to work with for the design elements. She was able to capture my “style” and recommend countertops, flooring, paint colors, cabinets, and all of the elements that made the renovation come together beautifully. I loved being involved in the process of choosing the finishes and Kallie kept me on schedule, making an overwhelming process very simple and fun! Our contractor Jordan was so hardworking and meticulous throughout the project. He surely takes pride in his work and it shows. He worked together with the trades to make sure that our vision was brought to life and that our home exceeded our expectations. The trades (plumbing, electric, flooring, etc.) were amazing to work with and it is evident that White Pine chooses them wisely. They were all polite, knowledgeable, and ensured their work was done to perfection. We enjoyed getting to know them and they felt like friends by the end of the job! Our home is now a beautiful, functional, space that we will enjoy for years to come thanks to White Pine Construction and Design. I am looking forward to working with them again to renovate bathrooms on the second floor!