Gilbert Design Build logoApproved Pro
Approved Pro

Gilbert Design Build

Kitchen and Bath Remodeling, General Remodeling, Cabinet Making,

About us

Gilbert Design Build is a full-service design-build firm that specializes in kitchen and bath and other interior remodeling projects in both Manatee and Sarasota counties. To ensure a seamless and enjoyable process, our professional team of designers and carpenters handle every aspect of your project from start to finish. From design planning to product selection and installation, you can count on us to be there every step of the way. Whether you live in Manatee or Sarasota Counties, we have a centralized design center to conveniently serve you. We encourage you to visit our interactive design centers for a hands-on experience, guaranteed to inspire you for your upcoming remodel. License #: CBC1263526. Lakewood Ranch Showroom: 6924 Professional Pkwy E Lakewood Ranch, FL 34240

Business highlights

Family owned & operated
24 years of experience

Services we offer

Full-Service Design-Build Firm, Kitchen and Bathroom and Other Interior Remodeling, Home Theaters, Entertainment/Media Centers, Fireplaces, Home Offices, Whole Home/Condo Remodels, Additions/Conversions and Cabinets. As an Onyx Dealer, you can contact us for all of your Onyx Orders We also represent several Cabinetry Lines and are happy to arrange the purchase of Cabintry for you. Whether you are remodeling a small bathroom, updating your kitchen, or a whole home remodels, we can be your source for your cabinets.

Services we don't offer

Minor Repair Service, Handyman service

Amenities

Eco Friendly Accreditations

Yes

Warranties

Yes

Accepted Payment Methods

  • Financing Available
  • Check
Reviews
4.582 Reviews
Number of StarsImage of DistributionNumber of Ratings
5
82%
4
5%
3
5%
2
2%
1
6%

Filter reviews by service

Showing 1-25 of 82 reviews
Erin S.
May 2025
5.0
Google Review
My husband and I inquired about remodeling our bathroom. Very professional company with friendly staff.

Sophannlim L.
May 2025
5.0
Google Review
Can’t say enough nice remarks about the incredible work! Josh with Gilbert Design Build deserves more than 5 golden stars! I would give him “ Best Employee” award! This company employs the best! They take the time to hear customers concerns, big or small, and tend to their needs until the last detail! Gilbert Designs got heart! ❤️

Lona D.
May 2025
5.0
Google Review
Love this company! Josh is an awesome asset!

Mike E.
May 2025
5.0
Google Review
Played Cyprus Links. In great shape. Fun interesting course

Susan
Apr 2025
5.0
Google Review
Excellent work. Replaced an old shower with magnificent marble walls and floor. Found exactly the color marble I wanted although it was rare. Added plumbing features, safety bars and proportional seat. Superior craftsmanship. This is a really a high end company-- professional and timely. Two years later when minor issues occurred in the normal course of wear and tear the company made fixes for no charge.
Response from Gilbert Design Build

"Thank you for the thoughtful review, Susan! We are so glad that your shower transformation hasn't failed to impress two years later, and we're so happy we could help with minor repairs so you can continue to enjoy! Thank you for allowing us the opportunity to work with you."


Gary M.
Sep 2024
5.0
Countertops and Backsplashes
Yes, I recommend this pro
$70,000
We were very pleased with the services provided by Gilbert Design Build. We wanted to renovate the kitchen and to place an accent wall with electric fireplace and TV in the living room. The project begins with meeting the president and the designer to discuss ideas and samples see if we're all a good fit. The designer and president then visit the house to see the exact spaces to be built or renovated. The project manager then completes measurements and designer orders materials. When all materials are on hand the site manager schedules the professionals in tile, plumbing, electrical, and framing to their dates Each was pleasant, worked with cleanliness, and delivered a great product. Only two glitches occurred in the process: 1. The distance between the TV and the fireplace heater was not sufficient. This took more tiling but was corrected. 2. The pots and pans rack was very noisy. This was corrected with drawers. Overall a very professional job by Gilbert Design and Build.

Georges L.
Oct 2022
1.0
General Remodeling, Cabinet Making + 9 more
Good sales pitch. Poor results. 6-week project was never completed after a year. High maintenance company that needed constant redirection and reminders of tasks needing completion. They were very selective with their contract compliance. Quartz was requested but they tried to pass off marble as comparable, after quoting the job. High employee turnover helped fuel problems with promises and communication. This business lacks integrity and professionalism.
Response from Gilbert Design Build

"Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback. We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience and frustration caused by the delays and issues you encountered throughout the project. You are absolutely right in pointing out that it took much longer than expected, especially considering the impact of the Covid pandemic and the subsequent fluctuations in our staff and supply chain. We want to assure you that we have taken your feedback seriously. We recognize the importance of efficient project management, clear communication, and maintaining a high level of integrity in our work. We have since moved forward and are reinvigorated since we are all determined to deliver the quality work we have consistently achieved in the past. It is our sincere hope that the concessions we made during the project alleviated some of the frustration you faced, although we understand that your particular experience was far from satisfactory. Please know that we are committed to ensuring that your case remains an anomaly and not the norm within our company. Your feedback has served as a catalyst for us to improve and refine our processes, and we appreciate your willingness to share your thoughts with us."


Karen S.
Sep 2022
5.0
Kitchen and Bath Remodeling, General Remodeling + 9 more
Yes, I recommend this pro
I am extremely pleased with the remodel of my master bathroom, by Gilbert Design Build. The entire process was smooth, professional and very high quality of workmanship. It was a pleasure to work with Fernando the designer & he was spot on with the redesign of the bathroom & made excellent suggestions on colors, countertops, cabinetry etc. Justin the project manager was on top of daily schedules & seamless coordinated workers & supplies in a timely manner. Justin also communicated with me on a regular basis & always returned calls/ messages. Jesse did excellent work with installation of cabinetry & other items related to the project. Jesse has a positive “can do” attitude when faced with an unforeseen variation & always consulted with me on any adjustments and always got the job done, Everyone associated with this project where true professionals, polite, respectful and always left everything cleaned up both inside & out.

Pamela S.
Aug 2022
5.0
Kitchen and Bath Remodeling, General Remodeling
Yes, I recommend this pro
$57,000
the process from beginning to end was exceptional. Design work by Fernando was right on point and Justin Rector did an outstanding job managing the project. He was the person I depended on the most to keep the project going and keep me informed. I enjoyed working with him immensely. Jesse and Victor were exceptional in carpentry and build. Even the subcontractors used were outstanding and their work was high quality. Of particular note was the tile/floor installer, Marcello. He is a true craftsman. The project went smoothly and the disruption in the house was kept to a minimum. I would recommend the company if you are seeking a stress free beginning to end design/build company that provides a beautiful high quality end product.

Pamela S.
Oct 2021
5.0
General Remodeling, Cabinet Making + 8 more
Yes, I recommend this pro
Gilbert Design was excellent to work with. They have a great showroom on Clark Road. The design process was smooth, buildout and installation went as promised, and I’m very pleased with the results. I will definitely recommend.

Brian P.
Aug 2021
5.0
Kitchen and Bath Remodeling, General Remodeling + 5 more
Yes, I recommend this pro
Very well! I was very unsure at the beginning of the process because I’ve never had a home remodeled before. At the end I felt calm, and assured that I got the best deal for the best quality. GDB really put in the effort to meet and exceed my needs. My kitchen looks amazing and professionally done. GDB will be the first place I call when I need to change something in my home!

Kristen B.
Aug 2021
5.0
Kitchen and Bath Remodeling, General Remodeling
Yes, I recommend this pro
Very professional company. Completed projects are stunning.

Jerry P.
Mar 2020
2.0
Kitchen and Bath Remodeling, General Remodeling + 9 more
it took 11 mo. to complete our bathroom project. we signed the contract in march 2019 the construction work started in august and the job was completed in feb. 2020.......we paid $4656.04 extra to get the cabinet color to match our bedroom set. this was an up grade to change from wellborn to woodharbor cabinets. the wood samples shone to us we believe were old and out of date. mr. gilbert refused to make their mistake right by ordering new cabinets or by compensating us for their error..... the cabinets we received were med. brown with a red hue our bedroom set is light brown with a gold hue. we suffered many sleepless nights and much aggravation due to the many mistakes and errors by the gilbert design company.......by the way our bathroom sinks are one white and the other cream............ we would not recommend this company!!!!!!!!!!!

Mark M.
Sep 2019
5.0
Kitchen and Bath Remodeling
Yes, I recommend this pro
$45,000
We had an absolutely amazing experience with Gilbert Design and Build. The best part of the experience for me was we could totally trust them with each decision knowing they had our best interest at heart. They understood what we wanted better than we did. At one point in the project I wanted something else done that was outside the scope of the project. When I mentioned it to the project manager and asked how much it would cost he said he would take care of it and would not allow me to pay for it. If you are looking for a company you can totally trust and a company that is going to exceed your expectations this is they right company for you.
Response from Gilbert Design Build

"[Member Name Removed], thank you for taking the time to leave us such a wonderful review. We are thrilled you are happy with your new kitchen!"


Charles G.
Jun 2019
1.0
Kitchen and Bath Remodeling
Terrible. over 1 year of lies and poor service. Ernest Gilbert is a con man. I am embarrassed to have contracted with him in the first place. After an intensely focused sales effort to win our confidence, Ernest himself became non-existent. Even when our "3-week" project went over 1 year, Ernest would not answer our calls but instead had his "executive secretary" call us. (His office is in a strip mall.) At every turn, something other than what was required was performed, or nothing at all, with no project guidance. Instead, the situation was left to inertia, to drift into the hands of the next person to not know the status of the job. After final completion of the job, they again simply ignored requests for waivers from subcontractors as required by Florida law. After finally complying 88 days later, Gilbert demanded payment within 2 days and placed a lien on my house when informed that my billing would process payment (and paid) in 2 weeks. Ernest is not just a con-man but a bully with a "zero sum" approach to his clients-- all that matters is that he wins.

Karen G.
Feb 2019
1.0
Kitchen and Bath Remodeling
We had a very disappointing experience with Gilbert Design Build. Our kitchen and bathroom needed remodeling so we researched design build firms online. The reviews of Gilbert Design Build were positive so we decided to pursue it further by attending a seminar put on by Ernest, the owner, and his employees. The information presented at the seminar was encouraging, and we decided to proceed onto the next step. Ernest came to our home and spoke with us about their company and how they would handle the process including the design and remodel. It seemed like a good fit so we signed a design/budget agreement, and gave Ernest a down payment to secure their services. Throughout our three design meetings, we felt rushed through the process. Our remodel involved a kitchen and bath with numerous finishes, hardware choices, plumbing, lighting, flooring and wall tiles. Initially the plan was to do the design in a 3 hour meeting. We eventually had three meetings totaling about 10 hours, but felt that they were not always productive. After our third meeting, we were surprised that the designer felt that we could complete the design at our next meeting and move to the contract phase even though there were many details we had yet to cover. We felt like we were just a box to check in order to move on to the next client. In terms of the design aspect, we felt as if there were a lack of options to consider. When we had our own design suggestion it was quickly dismissed as too expensive, and the designer did little to try to work with that suggestion. Also, the designer did not appear very enthusiastic that we wanted to make a change, offering reasons as to why it shouldn’t be done instead of saying let’s see how we can make this happen. Another example involved a countertop that was suggested for our kitchen. Upon taking the sample home, it was clear it didn’t match the style or colors of our home. When bringing this to the designer’s attention it was agreed that it was not right for our space. Perhaps the photos of our home should have been reviewed before making suggestions. We were also sent to a lighting, plumbing, and appliance store without any guidance as to what would work best in our design. The reason we contracted with a design firm was for expert guidance and knowledge in the project. We did not get the service we expected. When we arrived at meetings it seemed as if the designer wasn’t totally prepared. Only 1 or 2 choices of floor tile, wall tile, hardware, accents, and cabinet door styles were offered. When asked to see other choices, the designer opened drawers in the showroom that were completely disorganized. Items were difficult to find and had to be sorted through to locate. Having items on display boards with samples clearly arranged would have been much easier and a better use of our time. We felt that the majority of our meetings were not spent using our time efficiently. The designer used the meetings to make time-consuming changes on a computer software program instead of taking copious notes and making the changes on her own time. Much of one meeting was spent searching web sites to find cabinet hardware. Also, one meeting was interrupted a number of times by walk-in customers that our designer had to help. After deciding that we did not want to waste any additional time with the company, we called the designer to explain our decision and the rationale behind it. We also tried repeatedly to speak with Ernest to let him know of our decision and the reason why we were unhappy. Since December he has yet to return any of our calls. It is highly disappointing that the calls were not returned, but confirms that we made the right decision to leave their firm. We were serious about our intentions to remodel our kitchen and bathroom but were unable to make that happen with Gilbert Design Build. Luckily, we found another design build company with an attentive, organized designer who has helped us reach our remodeling goals. His store had well-organized samples of everything we needed on display boards that were easy to view. He accompanied us to plumbing and appliance stores with the blueprints for our design to help us pick out the items that would work for our project. He was patient with design changes and always willing to work with us. We are happy to report that our construction will start shortly with the new firm.

Marl D.
Dec 2018
5.0
Kitchen and Bath Remodeling, General Remodeling + 11 more
Yes, I recommend this pro
I am more than thrilled and overwhelmed with your overall renovation of my 2 bathrooms and all of my floors. From the very beginning with the design crew and through it all with carpenters, tile installers, etc and then the completion. I couldn’t be more pleased. You create, you listen and you complete with award winning design. My thanks to everyone at Gilbert for making me the happiest customer!
Response from Gilbert Design Build

"Marley, Thank you for your kind words and we are more than thrilled that you are happy with your completed projects. It was a joy to work with you. - Ernest and the Team"


Glen D.
Jun 2018
5.0
Kitchen and Bath Remodeling, General Remodeling + 10 more
Yes, I recommend this pro
We decided to the entire downstairs of our home. We chose Gilbert Design Build to do the project. The entire project went well and we are very satisfied with the end result. Competent, pleasant workers, skilled at what they do, did a superb job of transforming our entire downstairs-kitchen, family room, living room, dining room, guest bathroom, master bedroom and master bathroom. The project was large and took longer than anticipated, but is so worth it in the end.
Response from Gilbert Design Build

"[Member Name Removed] and [Member Name Removed], thank you for your nice review. We think your project turned out fantastic and we are glad you are happy with it too! - Ernest and Team"


Susan M.
Feb 2018
4.0
Kitchen and Bath Remodeling, Countertops and Backsplashes + 5 more
Yes, I recommend this pro
Very well. The design process, quality of materials, caliber of staff and work product were all excellent. We did have some delay on the second phase of a vanity area, but some of this was due to delays caused by Hurricane Irma. We would definitely recommend Gilbert.
Response from Gilbert Design Build

"We are glad you had a pleasant experience with our company throughout your remodeling projects. We hope you enjoy your updates for many years to come! - Ernest and Team"


Giles L.
Jan 2018
5.0
Kitchen and Bath Remodeling, Countertops and Backsplashes + 2 more
Yes, I recommend this pro
$17,000
I could not have been more pleased and would definitely recommend them again. Everyone was very professional and work completed was even better than I expected. As I have said to a number of people, "It cost more than I anticipated but turned out better than I expected." This is a first-class company.

Giles L.
Aug 2017
5.0
Kitchen and Bath Remodeling
Yes, I recommend this pro
$17,000
See above. Superb.
Response from Gilbert Design Build

"It was a pleasure working with you, [Member Name Removed]. We hope you enjoy you new tub! - Ernest"


Scott D.
Jul 2017
5.0
Kitchen and Bath Remodeling, Cabinet Making + 6 more
Yes, I recommend this pro
It went very well. The designer (Jennifer) worked well with me on suggesting materials and needs that are appropriate for an updated kitchen. After extensive planning for all the work, I froze the design and they accommodated my delayed start date. Work started as planned with the construction group meeting my needs in controlling dust and damage on the construction site. Once started the work proceeded pretty much ahead of schedule (due to design freeze). Subcontractors showed up on time and did a professional job. In construction there are always problems and issues that occur. I enjoyed how the team worked through the issues on their own and at times asked for my guidance as to what I preferred when it came to appearance or functionality. Without a doubt Tony (chief carpenter) and his crews do quality work. The job was completed in the estimated time. In the end I am very pleased with the design outcome and quality of the work.
Response from Gilbert Design Build

"[Member Name Removed], it was a pleasure working with you and we are so happy you love your new kitchen and flooring! Thank you for your business and we look forward to helping you with some other projects in the future. - Jennifer"


Bob P.
Aug 2016
5.0
Kitchen and Bath Remodeling
Yes, I recommend this pro
$19,000

I recent contracted Gilbert Design-Build to remodel my bathroom. My old bathroom was a nightmare. I wanted something totally different, masculine, but with a sense of style. My Gilbert Design-Build designer, Jennifer Strohl visited my house, photographed my bathroom, and listened to what I wanted them to accomplish. She helped me figure a budget for the job and help me select products that fit in with what I wanted and the budget. The build team and lead carpenter Bill Evans were very professional and always cleaned up every evening before they left. They would even let my cat out of the room she stayed in while they worked. The end result was even better than I had hoped for. Jennifer absolutely nailed it. I wouldn't hesitate to hire Gilbert Design-Build again(which I will probably do when I remodel my kitchen) or recommend them to friends needing remodeling.


Bob Priebe

Response from Gilbert Design Build

"Thank you so much for your kind review, we all enjoyed working with you to design and build your new bathroom. It is always nice to hear that it turned out just the way you wanted, and we hope you enjoy it for a long time! We look forward to helping you with your kitchen ~ Jennifer and the Gilbert Design Build Team"


Valerie L.
Jul 2016
5.0
Kitchen and Bath Remodeling
Yes, I recommend this pro
$40,000
We look for someone who will do the job right, stand by the work, and minimize the hassle for the customer. We found all that in Ernest -- and a sense of humor, too. He builds a relationship and maintains a reputation so that you will want to come right back to him the next time you have a project, and will want to tell all your neighbors. Gilbert will never be the cheapest estimate, but we were confident in the high quality of materials and workmanship. When we had the occasional glitch in the process, he handled it with integrity. We would tell you to request Adam as your lead carpenter, but we want to make sure he's available for our next project.
Response from Gilbert Design Build

"Thank you for your kind review. We appreciate your business and hope to be your go-to for any future projects. -Ernest"


Kathleen C.
May 2016
5.0
Kitchen and Bath Remodeling, Countertops and Backsplashes + 5 more
Yes, I recommend this pro
$53,000
We worked with Jennifer to redesign our kitchen. Jennifer had great ideas & was patient with us during the design stage. We ended up taking a wall down & moving things around. The flooring in the great room was also replaced. The work was completed professionally & looks beautiful- the house looks so much bigger & brighter now. When I came home from work at night the house was as clean as if no one had ever worked on the house. The crews always left the house very clean.  We had shopped around prior to choosing Gilbert design. There were others who were less expensive, but we were not impressed with response time or professionalism. We are extremely happy with our new living space.
Response from Gilbert Design Build

"[Removed Member Name], I very much enjoyed working with you to make your dream kitchen a reality! It turned out beautiful and I'm glad you are more than satisfied with it. I hope to work with you again in the future. Jennifer"

Showing 1-25 of 82

Licensing

Bonded

Insured

Licensed*

Trade License Number

CBC1263526

Trade License Locale

FL

Trade License Authority

Florida Department of Building & Professional Regulation

Trade License Expiration

08/31/2026

State Contractor License Requirements

All statements concerning insurance, licenses, and bonds are informational only, and are self-reported. Since insurance, licenses and bonds can expire and can be cancelled, homeowners should always check such information for themselves. To find more licensing information for your state, visit our Find Licensing Requirements page.

*Contact business to see additional licenses.

FAQ

Gilbert Design Build is currently rated 4.5 overall out of 5.
Monday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Tuesday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Wednesday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Thursday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Friday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Saturday: Closed Sunday: Closed
Gilbert Design Build accepts the following forms of payment: Financing Available, Check
No, Gilbert Design Build does not offer free project estimates.
Yes, Gilbert Design Build offers eco-friendly accreditations.
No, Gilbert Design Build does not offer a senior discount.
No, Gilbert Design Build does not offer emergency services.
Yes, Gilbert Design Build offers warranties.
Gilbert Design Build offers the following services: Full-Service Design-Build Firm, Kitchen and Bathroom and Other Interior Remodeling, Home Theaters, Entertainment/Media Centers, Fireplaces, Home Offices, Whole Home/Condo Remodels, Additions/Conversions and Cabinets. As an Onyx Dealer, you can contact us for all of your Onyx Orders We also represent several Cabinetry Lines and are happy to arrange the purchase of Cabintry for you. Whether you are remodeling a small bathroom, updating your kitchen, or a whole home remodels, we can be your source for your cabinets.
Minor Repair Service, Handyman service

Contact Information

6924 Professional Pkwy E, Lakewood Ranch, FL 34240

Service Hours

Sunday:Closed
Monday:9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday:9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday:9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday:9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday:9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday:Closed
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