Lower Level & Garage Addition in Portland, OR

“Communication, achieving commitments, and customer service were very important to me and also seemed to be core values of COOPER Design Build.  I’m sure every project has challenges, but I felt the COOPER team would be there to make sure we got through them together.” — Homeowner Scott

Why did you decide to remodel your house? What problems did you need to resolve?

The lot next door to our house became available at a reasonable price and we decided to buy it.  I wanted additional garage space and more room for cars to turn around (previously we had to back down the driveway).  My wife wanted a better guest suite.  We both wanted additional outdoor space to take advantage of our great view (previously we only had two small decks looking towards Mt Hood).  We both wanted to move our primary TV viewing area away from our great room / entry.

Why did you choose to work with COOPER Design Build?

We started the project with a different GC and things didn’t go well.  Lots of performance, cost and schedule issues (pretty much everything).  We were considering firing them after they completed the building shell, but just before that they let their license lapse.  While investigating that issue we found out they were in trouble with lots of their other jobs and subcontractors.  That made it easy to fire them.

One of the subcontractors on the job, that I liked and respected, highly recommended COOPER Design Build as someone who they worked with and thought they could finish the project.  After meeting with Lane, I also felt he could help us out of this jam.

What are the top things that you love about your newly remodeled space?

We love almost everything, the new outdoor spaces, the finishes and how the indoor spaces turned out.  Everything is great and we really get to enjoy our wonderful views so much more than before.  Also, car access is so much better without having to back down the driveway.

What design details or features are you most excited about?

For me the extra garage space and access are much appreciated.  My wife loves the extra space and getting to decorate the new living areas.  We both love the new decks and the outdoor living they allow.

How has the remodel improved your lifestyle at home?

Yes, with it being finished in the first part of the Pandemic, we have had lots of time at home to get familiar with the new spaces.  The expended outdoor space kept us from feeling cooped up with spending more time at home.  Family events have been improved by the new space and functionality of the house.

What did you most enjoy about working with COOPER Design Build?

After the horrible experience with the first GC, the level of professionalism was the thing I appreciate the most.  The level of communication was good, and all commitments were met.  Also, every COOPER employee had a great customer service focus, which is rare.

In speaking with others, what would you say are a few things that COOPER Design Build did well that matter most to you?

As mentioned above, communication, achieving commitments and customer service were very important to me and also seemed to be core values of the COOPER team.  I’m sure every project has challenges, but I felt the COOPER team would be there to make sure we got through them together.

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