Island Kitchens and Baths Named NARI 2011 Contractor of the Year

MELVILLE, NY, April 20, 2011

The National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) named Island Kitchens and Baths, in Patchogue, NY, 2011 National Contractor of the Year (CotY) in the Universal Design category of its annual awards competition.
Contractors from seven regions nationwide vie for the awards on an annual basis. All projects submitted for judging were an improvement or an addition to an existing structure, with the exception of one category, "Residential Exterior Specialty." Otherwise, new construction projects were not eligible.

Creating a space to fit the Universal Design criteria is no easy task. First, the kitchen was squared off and made into a "U" configuration. The articulated pot filler with a valve on the spout was set low for the client's access. The oversized exhaust fan above was operated by remote control. A custom made shallow under mount sink with knee space below was used. The space between the side-by-side refrigerator and the counter allowed for wheel chair space to open the refrigerator door and provide a landing area. Other factors were assed such as making light switches and outlets low enough for easy access.

In addition, competing projects were completed between July 1 of 2009 and November 30 of 2010 and were not submitted in prior NARI National contests. An impartial panel of judges who are experts within the industry and associated fields, selected winners based on each entrant's binders, which include "before and after" photography and project descriptions. Judging focused on problem solving, functionality, aesthetics, craftsmanship, innovation, degree of difficulty and entry presentation.

Island Kitchens and Baths offers a full line of high-quality products and design services. The showroom features Woodmode and Brookhaven Cabinetry in room-type settings. Their designers create beautiful, functional spaces to accommodate all of their customers' needs. A 2005 NARI National CotY Award Winner and 2007, 2010 & 2011 NARI Regional CotY Award Winner, Island Kitchens and Baths prides themselves on quality workmanship and dependable service.
Charles Testa, CKD, CBD was presented the award at NARI's Evening of ExcellenceSM on April 2, 2011 at the Westin Jersey City Newport, in Jersey City, N.J.

The Evening of ExcellenceSM is widely considered to be the premier event of the year in the remodeling industry, and was attended this year by more than 300 of the industry's elite. NARI members represent a highly professional group of approximately 800,000 companies and individuals in the U.S. identifying themselves as remodelers.


EDITOR'S NOTE: For high-res before & after photos of winning remodeling projects, contac Teresa Hansen at 631-673-6274 or e-mail marketing@nari-ny.org.

Homeowners are estimated to spend a total of $133 billion on home improvements in the U.S. through end of second quarter of 2011 up from $118 billion in second quarter 2010.

NARI is a professional association whose members voluntarily subscribe to a strict code of ethics. Consumers may wish to search http://www.nari-ny.org to find a qualified professional who is a member of NARI.

Consumers can also call the NYC/LI NARI Office 631-673-NARI and request a free copy of NARI's brochure, "Remodeling Today," or visit http://www.nari-ny.org and click on the Find A Remodeling Pro tab. For tips on remodeling using green techniques and materials, visit NARI's green Web site, http://www.greenremodeling.org.

About Island Kitchens and Baths: Island Kitchens and Baths is located on 60 West Main Street, Patchogue, NY. For more information on Island Kitchens and Baths. please call 631-447-1700 or visit http://www.islandkitchens.com.

The NYC/LI NARI Chapter was established in 1954. The NYC/LI NARI Chapter is dedicated to connecting homeowners with quality licensed and insured remodeling professionals. NARI has been the leader in the remodeling industry for over 55 years. The NYC/LI NARI Chapter has over 330 members.
The NYC/LI NARI Chapters goals of encouraging ethical conduct, professionalism, and sound business practices in the remodeling industry have led to the remodeling industry's growth and made NARI a recognized authority in that industry.

CONTACT: Teresa Hansen
631-673-6274
marketing@nari-ny.org