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
Our recent projects
- 27
Assorted photos uploaded by Gilbert Design Build
- 6
2023Chic and Bright Contemporary Kitchen
- 6
2023Transformed 80s/90s Master Bathroom into a Luxurious Oasis
- 6
Sarasota Master Bathroom Remodel
- 10
St Armand's Kitchen Remodel
- 21
2019Spacious Deer Creek Owner's Bathroom
- 21
Luxurious Owner's Suite Renovation
Reviews
4.675 Reviews
| Number of Stars | Image of Distribution | Number of Ratings |
|---|---|---|
| 84% | ||
| 4% | ||
| 4% | ||
| 3% | ||
| 5% |
Filter reviews by service
Showing 51-75 of 75 reviews
Irma L.
Jun 2014
Kitchen and Bath Remodeling, Cabinet Making + 1 more
When owner Ernest Gilbert came to the house to give me an estimate, he impressed me that he really wanted to give me MY dream kitchen, working within my budget, and without his own agenda. (As opposed to some other companies who wanted to do what THEY wanted.) He required a deposit of $400.00 before going any further, making sure I understood that this was NONrefundable. After several more meetings with him, I backed out and, as promised, he would not refund the deposit. I was so naive I did not realize his company would have certain products available to chose from, as displayed in their showroom. They had many lovely products but not the linoleum (Marmoleum) flooring I wanted. They tried to talk me into their products. My daughter stopped them several times to say, " Look, this is HER kitchen! You need to listen to what SHE wants, not what you want!" They list that they are an eco-friendly company but had never heard of the most environmentally friendly flooring available (according to my internet research). At one point I thought I could have them do all but the flooring but even so the price was much too high; at $30,000 (only cabinets and counters, no appliances) it was at least $10,000 higher than other estimates. Plus, after all our miscommunicaton, I just got a sick feeling whenever I entered their business.
Response from Gilbert Design Build
"Thank you for sharing your thoughts with us! I appreciate that you mentioned that our goal is to help our clients realize “their” dreams and vision for their project. This is why we guarantee to offer the widest selection of products possible, while offering an interior designer to help walk you through the selection process, as well as draw the area in architectural software so you can visualize the possibilities. We try to display the most often used products in our design center, but are not limited to what we display; it isn’t possible to display everything available. We do agree on a budget range and accept a deposit before we spend the time in researching the right products, getting the layout right and drawing it for you. This deposit is fully applied to the cost of the project should you decide to go ahead with one. I agree there was some confusion though about the scope and budget as you mention. Each time we met there were changes in what you wanted to have done: in our first meeting in your home you expressed the desire to remodel the bathroom and kitchen and some flooring; at the second visit you eliminated the bathroom but added the removal of a wall and soffits in the kitchen to use taller cabinets, and do flooring throughout, and then decided to pursue just the kitchen and no flooring. We did produce the designs and budgets, according to all of your ideas as requested. We are happy to explore all options with our clients, as this is what the design process is for. However, sometimes the scope of work that is desired and the products selected do not always match up with what someone wants to invest. We try to keep clients informed throughout the process of how these changes can affect the amount of investment required. It would have been very possible to do your kitchen for 20,000. The specific higher end products you chose and the structural changes, (walls, soffits, etc) did in fact bring you closer to 30,000."
Donald W.
May 2014
Kitchen and Bath Remodeling, General Remodeling + 1 more
Build a room addition on my home and installed nice oak cabinets in my dinning room and counter tops. They were very polite ,work was finished on time with nice clean up. Mr. Gilbert was there and made sure everything was perfect. We will use again to remodel our bathrooms.
Response from Gilbert Design Build
"Thank you for your comments! I am glad you are pleased with the process and results! I look forward to working with you on your bathroom project!"
David V.
May 2014
Kitchen and Bath Remodeling, General Remodeling + 2 more
After two meetings and $1,000 for initial design work we met a third time to review the design. The design was a computer generated floor plan without design elements and the designer hadn't seen it. We were then asked to pick out cabinet door types, colors and surfaces. The designer left before the meeting was over without saying goodby. After three meeting and $1,000 we hadn't made any progress. Very nice owner but unfortunately zero results and $1,000 wasted.
Response from Gilbert Design Build
"Thank you for taking the time to share your experience! Our goal at DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen is 100% client satisfaction. However, we realize that it is not always possible. We did indeed meet with you several times concerning the remodeling of your home, and in fact have 11 architectural files with detailed 3D renderings for the different plans you asked us to draw up. Originally, at the first meeting in your home your goal was to create a plan to modify the master suite area to create an office area. After we created that, at our next visit you asked for a plan to build a second story with a loft for the office and update the master bath. Once these plans were drawn I visited your home again with our designer so you could now show us how you wanted to instead create the office either in the lanai area or one of the upstairs bedrooms. At the next visit back in our design center to view these drawings you had decided not to create the office at all, but wanted to instead do a new floor plan for the master bath and also now update the hall bath. I think there may be some confusion where you mention that the designer “hadn’t seen” the drawings and left etc, when in fact the designers create the drawings and was with you and I the duration of the selection meeting. I am sorry you feel that you had not made progress and did not receive the value you had hoped for. Our designers invested a great deal of time creating the many drawings you asked for and researching different product options. The deposit would have been applied to the cost of a remodel project if you had chosen to proceed with one. We appreciate the opportunity to work with you. It was a pleasure meeting you both, and I enjoyed our chats. However, at each meeting it seemed that the scope of what you wanted to do had changed. We understand sometimes it takes awhile and may be difficult to decide which direction you want to take when you have so many possibilities. We wish you the best on whatever path you do end up choosing."
Michael S.
May 2014
Kitchen and Bath Remodeling, General Remodeling + 3 more
We had researched several companies and decided upon this one after meeting Mr. Gilbert. His rating on Angie's list and his claims of attention to detail and thoroughness were what sold us. We were not disappointed. We met with a designer -Beth- and with Mr. Gilbert and planned for the bathroom remodel back in September. Both were exceptionally knowledgable and patient. Mr. Gilbert would not start construction until all the parts were ordered and delivered. Because we were not there full time, he worked around our schedule. The end result in the bathroom was beautiful. When he came to see if we were satisfied at the completion of the project, we complimented the workmanship and the overall design. We expressed how delighted we were on the results. I commented on the color of the sash by the shower but had no expectation that it would be replaced, nor did I demand it. Nevertheless, unbeknownst to us, he actually removed the installed shower door and replaced the sash with a color that was an exact match for the rest of the design. This is a perfect example of how Mr. Gilbert protects his reputation and the good name of his company. He simply didn't like the way it looked so he remedied it. This is what sets him apart from the pack.
Once we saw the bathroom, we knew we would use his company for the kitchen remodeling. We went through the same process. He worked within our budget and again assisted with the design. He took care of every item on the punch list. And as before, some were brought to our attention before we noted them. Midway through the project, Mr. Gilbert hired a foreman. Bob was attentive, thorough, and conscientious. We were able to contact Bob at any time when we had questions. The kitchen is now fabulous. If we did not like the way something looked, it was rectified. Bob saw to every detail.
It is a wonderful experience to deal with a company who has customer satisfaction as a primary objective. We plan to use the company again to remodel another bathroom. I know We won't be disappointed.
Once we saw the bathroom, we knew we would use his company for the kitchen remodeling. We went through the same process. He worked within our budget and again assisted with the design. He took care of every item on the punch list. And as before, some were brought to our attention before we noted them. Midway through the project, Mr. Gilbert hired a foreman. Bob was attentive, thorough, and conscientious. We were able to contact Bob at any time when we had questions. The kitchen is now fabulous. If we did not like the way something looked, it was rectified. Bob saw to every detail.
It is a wonderful experience to deal with a company who has customer satisfaction as a primary objective. We plan to use the company again to remodel another bathroom. I know We won't be disappointed.
Response from Gilbert Design Build
"Thank you for doing your research before making such an important decision on a bathroom and kitchen remodel. We appreciate you entrusting our company, and understanding our construction and design process. We like to make sure all materials are accounted for and everyone is committed and satisfied on the design end. Mr. Gilbert is notorious for making changes mid project if something isn’t working out, especially when the client expresses concern. As always we have a attentive staff that will always be available to answer your questions or take your phone calls. We are so please you had a wonderful experience and look forward to working with you in the future."
George S.
Apr 2014
Kitchen and Bath Remodeling
unknown
Response from Gilbert Design Build
"Dear Satisfied Customer, We are so grateful for your positive feedback and return business. We consider it the highest compliment to have a client come back to us for more work. Also we are very glad you didn't find anything negative to report. Thank you so much for your kind words and it was a pleasure working with you."
Helen H.
Mar 2014
Kitchen and Bath Remodeling
The project went very well. Our health problems caused several delays and Dreammaker responded as true pro's should ! Thanks to all of the Dreammaker Team. Richard & Helen
Response from Gilbert Design Build
"We hope everyone is feeling much better and trust you are in good health. Thank you for the wonderful review, it was a pleasure working with you both."
Michael M.
Mar 2014
Kitchen and Bath Remodeling
Everyone was professional, courteous and genuinely wanted us to be completely satisfied. They really woked hard to complete the job in the timeframe I needed.
Leslie F.
Mar 2014
Kitchen and Bath Remodeling
I have heard from many people that this company provides the best service and results.
TED H.
Feb 2014
Kitchen and Bath Remodeling, General Remodeling
I was riding my bike down a very nice street and saw a yard sign announcing a remodel by DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen. It was
a really nice house and I thought "these guys must be good". We wanted to redo our bathroom, so we called and started the process.
The owner, Ernest, came to look over our space and take measurements. No hard sell, thoughtful questions and the offer to help with design. Okay, on to the next step. We had two meetings with Ernest and his designer, and they took us from a germ of an idea to a really creative approach. Working with our needs and tastes they came up with a super design.
We were out of town during construction and when we came back there were a few punch list items, as always. Most of them
were fixed quickly and satisfactorily. One was particularly vexing and required a few extra passes to determine the problem. I am happy to report that despite the fact that payment had been made in full DreamMaker was not satisfied until we were. All issues were resolved and we couldn't be happier with the end result.
I've done plenty of remodeling and I can tell that not all contractors are responsive once they've been paid. DreamMakers is a professional, ethical business that delivers a beautiful, quality product. Next year, the kitchen.
a really nice house and I thought "these guys must be good". We wanted to redo our bathroom, so we called and started the process.
The owner, Ernest, came to look over our space and take measurements. No hard sell, thoughtful questions and the offer to help with design. Okay, on to the next step. We had two meetings with Ernest and his designer, and they took us from a germ of an idea to a really creative approach. Working with our needs and tastes they came up with a super design.
We were out of town during construction and when we came back there were a few punch list items, as always. Most of them
were fixed quickly and satisfactorily. One was particularly vexing and required a few extra passes to determine the problem. I am happy to report that despite the fact that payment had been made in full DreamMaker was not satisfied until we were. All issues were resolved and we couldn't be happier with the end result.
I've done plenty of remodeling and I can tell that not all contractors are responsive once they've been paid. DreamMakers is a professional, ethical business that delivers a beautiful, quality product. Next year, the kitchen.
Stacey M.
Feb 2014
Kitchen and Bath Remodeling
Before hiring DreamMaker for my remodeling, I got two other estimates for the job which were around the same ballpark, but a few things were left 'to be determined' which ended up raising the costs, but most were unavoidable. As it is when one hires a contractor to monitor a job rather than doing it oneself, the costs will reflect that and that was something I had to adjust to since I am used to running projects myself. I would say his costs were similar to other contractors in the area. They have a professional set up with their own showroom and Ernest creates a computer-generated rendition of what the finished product will look like which is very helpful. He also has an in-house designer who did come up with a good idea for cabinet configuration in the master bath and is there to make suggestions for those who may be lacking in design finesse. They have several items and catalogs that they like you to look through which is helpful, but when I decided upon a tile that I picked out on my own which required shipping fees from Canada, he was compliant with my request. All of the subcontractors I met were very professional. The project took a bit longer than anticipated, but in the end I was able to move in with most of the job already having been completed and with it having been surprisingly immaculate prior to my arrival. There were a few hiccups along the way, but I have yet to complete a project without such things arising and I tend to be very picky. Overall, the place looks wonderful and everyone who has seen it has said such. I would recommend DreamMaker to others wishing to remodel with the advice to have everything planned out ahead and in the contract to help keep costs under control, and to have an estimated completion date in the contract. Overall, I was very satisfied and may hire them for my next project.
Jim P.
Jan 2014
Kitchen and Bath Remodeling
The kitchen cabinets were updated, and both cabinets and drawars were refaced with Maple fronts. Numerous other changes were suggested and implemented, resulting in a more efficient kitchen! | |The entire experience with DreamMaker was top-notch from the start. The |work ethic of the crew was exceptional, and we plan on remodeling our master bath utilizing the same crew! They were real professionals and I wouldn't hesitate to recommend this company to my friends.
LLOYD S.
Jan 2014
Kitchen and Bath Remodeling
Ernest was professional during both meetings. We are not ready to renovate at the moment, but would strongly consider his company.
James D.
Oct 2013
Kitchen and Bath Remodeling
We were more than pleased with the outcome of the final picture. The proposed project was spot on with our wants and desires. The people at Dream Maker were able to create exactly the rooms as we envisioned them. In the end, we decided against the remodel. We had only lived in our house about 4 months before contacting Dream Maker. We decided that perhaps we should live with the house as it existed and get a better idea of what was working and what was not working with our current floor plan. In the time since advising Ernest Gilbert of Dream Maker Kitchen and Bath that we were opting to not go forward with this project, we have seen him on some occasions in the community and at various home shows. Ernest has never pushed us to re-start this project with him, has always been friendly and states that if he can do anything else for us just to let him know. He still has our plans on file and we are always welcome to start the process again. When ever we see Ernest we are not afraid of talking to him or afraid of being harassed because we did not follow through on the project, on the contrary every contact with him has been very positive.
Sharon T.
Oct 2013
Kitchen and Bath Remodeling
DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen is a rock solid company. During the entire process of my kitchen upgrade, the DreamMaker Team carefully planned and considered all options before commencing work. My kitchen countertop was the most complex layout and therefore extremely challenging to get all of the angle cuts completed correctly. The Team took multiple measurements using different techniques to ensure the stone cuts would fit with no gaps or re-cuts.
The biggest praise I have for the Team is they were on time and were flexible to meet my schedule! This was a huge bonus since I have significant job commitments and many contractors are notorious for not meeting time commitments. I was able to schedule my time off and not have it wasted on wait time and/or cancelations.
Additionally, the Team stays squarely within budget. there were no surprises and no scope changes. I really liked the project book that the Team assembled and referenced throughout the job. This book was comprehensive and detailed to ensure the construction team fully understood what needed to be done. Furthermore, there were clear provisions in the event of an unplanned job scope change. this method ensured there was no "scope creep" and the unexpected financial charges that result when that situation occurs.
I would absolutely recommend DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen to anyone looking to have this type of work done in their homes! You will not be disappointed!!
The biggest praise I have for the Team is they were on time and were flexible to meet my schedule! This was a huge bonus since I have significant job commitments and many contractors are notorious for not meeting time commitments. I was able to schedule my time off and not have it wasted on wait time and/or cancelations.
Additionally, the Team stays squarely within budget. there were no surprises and no scope changes. I really liked the project book that the Team assembled and referenced throughout the job. This book was comprehensive and detailed to ensure the construction team fully understood what needed to be done. Furthermore, there were clear provisions in the event of an unplanned job scope change. this method ensured there was no "scope creep" and the unexpected financial charges that result when that situation occurs.
I would absolutely recommend DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen to anyone looking to have this type of work done in their homes! You will not be disappointed!!
Lois M.
Oct 2013
General Remodeling
They made a point to do the remodle quickly due to only having one bathroom. He did work very hard to work with in my budget.
Charles M.
Oct 2013
Kitchen and Bath Remodeling
The above work was done in late January 2011. In early October 2013,I was informed that the kitchen sink faucets were inoperable and there was no water flow. We could not discern any label on the defective faucet that would determine who was the manufacturer of this faucet . Since Dream Maker Bath & Kitchen was the company that was responsible for all materials and labor, I called and left a message with the receptionist/employee referencing my issue. The receptionist stated that she would inform the owner and I would be receiving a phone call addressing my concerns..
Three days later I am still waiting. Since they will probably never return my call, this is not a good message . It certainly is not conducive to growing your customer base and leaves me with the feeling that this businessman does not care !!
My suspicions are that the faucet installed was of sub-standard quality (no manufacturers label). They charged me $450 to furnish and undermount sink and faucet. I appreciate that nothing lasts forever, but when you have to replace the above in 2 and 1/2 years and pay on their terms, you would think I deserve a courtesy response.
At my expense I had the above issue resolved in the amount $200. Also, I have taken the trouble to retain the old faucet which is being held by the plumber who did the repair work just in case this businessman has second thoughts after reading our review
Three days later I am still waiting. Since they will probably never return my call, this is not a good message . It certainly is not conducive to growing your customer base and leaves me with the feeling that this businessman does not care !!
My suspicions are that the faucet installed was of sub-standard quality (no manufacturers label). They charged me $450 to furnish and undermount sink and faucet. I appreciate that nothing lasts forever, but when you have to replace the above in 2 and 1/2 years and pay on their terms, you would think I deserve a courtesy response.
At my expense I had the above issue resolved in the amount $200. Also, I have taken the trouble to retain the old faucet which is being held by the plumber who did the repair work just in case this businessman has second thoughts after reading our review
Marigene B.
Sep 2013
General Remodeling
We had to make tile color choices in the show room rather than in the home. Otherwise, the quote was fair for what we wanted done. Mr Gilbert was very helpful and responsive to changes we wanted made. However, he did not come out to inspect the project in process which I believe would have improved our satisfaction with the job. The tile installer did not install the ceramic corner shelves in the tub shower surround properly the first time and had to come back out to correct the problem. The plumber's apprentice did not put a cloth down when installing the fixtures in the tub/shower area and made a small chip in the new tub which had to be corrected with an enamel paint to hide the chip. There would not have been a chip if they had been more careful. Overall, the job was completed timely and the bathroom turned out beautifully. I would rate this experience a "B" as it was not perfect but stayed on budget and looked good in the end.
Janet W.
Aug 2013
Kitchen and Bath Remodeling
When work was completed we were thrilled to have the modern, sophisticated kitchen that we'd always wanted. In addition to beautiful cherry cabinets and striking granite countertops, a circular granite bar was added, giving us an eat-in option that did not exist before. State of the art stainless steel appliances were installed, and sparkling multi-colored glass tile creates the backsplash. The room is illuminated by under-the-counter lighting, pendant lights and top hats, as well as the natural light that the window provides. Our favorite addition is the easy-to-care-for ceramic flooring, which has the look and warmth of a wood floor but none of the headaches. This is a kitchen that is well used, and the layout works perfectly.
Without hesitation, we highly recommend the folks at DreamMaker. Ernest, the owner, is personable, professional and sincere, and as forthcoming a contractor as we've had the pleasure of working with. He was very helpful and accommodating as we made our selections, and ultimately handed over a beautifully executed job. All of his men are respectful and diligent workers, and reflect very well on the company. Respect for the customer was demonstrated by the way the area was left at the end of every day, even at the messiest points in the demolition process. A special mention must be made of Adam, the head carpenter, who very quietly goes about doing an immaculate job every time.
The memo line on the final check that we handed over said: "It's been a pleasure."
Without hesitation, we highly recommend the folks at DreamMaker. Ernest, the owner, is personable, professional and sincere, and as forthcoming a contractor as we've had the pleasure of working with. He was very helpful and accommodating as we made our selections, and ultimately handed over a beautifully executed job. All of his men are respectful and diligent workers, and reflect very well on the company. Respect for the customer was demonstrated by the way the area was left at the end of every day, even at the messiest points in the demolition process. A special mention must be made of Adam, the head carpenter, who very quietly goes about doing an immaculate job every time.
The memo line on the final check that we handed over said: "It's been a pleasure."
Phil W.
Jul 2013
Kitchen and Bath Remodeling
Phone call from company... attempted to over pre-qualify me. Was more interested in what was in my wallet than the job.
Maybe they are good, maybe not. But without looking at the project, they needed to know how much I want to spend. Spend on WHAT? They didn't show me anything.
Maybe they are good, maybe not. But without looking at the project, they needed to know how much I want to spend. Spend on WHAT? They didn't show me anything.
Response from Gilbert Design Build
"Angie’s List Members, with a Super Service Award and all ‘A’ reviews on Angie’s List, and referrals from other satisfied clients, we get A LOT of calls each day. We try to make the process as efficient as possible for us and for our valued clients. Because of the large volume of calls, we do ask a few questions during the initial phone call to see if our company is a good fit for the prospective client. For example, If you are looking to start work in the next couple weeks, and we are not able to meet that deadline, we know your time is valuable and don’t want to waste it by coming to quote you on a project that we cannot fit into your schedule. Also, we do a wide variety of sizes and types of projects relating to kitchen and bath work as you can see if you scroll down to other reviews. We do jobs for 3-$4,000 or up to $300- $400,000. If you are looking for above or below those ranges we are probably not the right company. So we do ask about budget to try to save everyone time. If you look at our other reviews, where the work was completed, you’ll see that they are all stellar ‘A’ reviews. We asked this member a question about his remodeling budget, and regretfully he hung up on us. Therefore, we offer this explanation."
Jim W.
May 2013
Kitchen and Bath Remodeling, Cabinet Making + 2 more
We had our kitchen remodeled and were so happy with the results that we again hired Ernest Gilbert and his team to do our bathrooms. Although it took a bit longer than we expected, the quality of the work is superb. I highly recommend this company, especially Adam (the all around finish carpenter, tile setter, painter, etc.) If it needs to be done Adam does all the finish work and even the clean up if need be. He is such an asset to DreamMaker Baths, his professionalism, patience, punctuality and follow through are very impressive.
Response from Gilbert Design Build
"We really enjoyed working with this member again, and are very thankful that they brought us back to do work for them again. They were a pleasure to work with both times."
George S.
Apr 2013
Kitchen and Bath Remodeling, General Remodeling + 5 more
As experienced homeowners with remodels and custom new-home construction in our past, we made the decision to buy a dated 23-year old home knowing a lot of work was ahead for us. We've had plenty of DIY experience, so we separated out the work we would do ourselves from that we wanted done by a contractor. The master bathroom was definitely in the latter category.
The bathroom was large, but oddly laid out. The floors were carpeted, the vanities were back-to-back, and there was no toilet privacy. All that, plus pink countertops, shower, tub and toilet fixtures dictated a total demolition.
We shopped model homes for ideas, talked with kitchen and bath consultants in the big box stores, and visited several bath and kitchen specialty contractors before inviting anyone in for a bid. DreamMaker Bath and Kitchen was the only contractor invited and that was based on the tenor of several in-office visits. Owner Ernest Gilbert was both cautious and forthright in his approach, wanting to make certain we knew what we wanted, had realistic budget and time-table expectations and that there was a chemistry that could lead to a successful completed project.
Then, after making an on-site visit and taking measurements, the owner invited us back to his offices to discuss the scope of the job, review options in layouts -- all done with a computerized CAD program that allowed multiple mock-up views of our bathroom -- and
sort through multiple possibilities for cabinets, granite, and tile. After a couple of weeks of back-and-forth discussions fine-tuning the room layout, Ernest brought in a designer to work with us in the final selection of materials, colors and hardware. We've used designers before and there's no better way of ensuring the right "look."
The project was estimated at six weeks and took longer, by a couple of weeks. Still, there were workers on the job virtually every day. It was not a simple, nor an easy job. The space was gutted, floors jackhammered so plumbing could be reconfigured, and new walls and doors added. Adam, the lead carpenter on the job, is a gem. Not only is he skilled, but a perfectionist for getting the details right. He protected adjacent rooms with plastic barrier walls and plastic or paper sheeting on the floors, made certain the work space was cleaned daily and refuse hauled away. Remodeling is messy -- no getting around it -- but he made the mess tolerable.
There were a couple of hiccups along the way. The glass half-wall for the shower enclosure was slow in arriving, then had to be returned because it was cut wrong. The wood finishing trim for a wall of cabinets was a shade off. The sheetrock texturing in the commode area was poorly done the first time. But everything was corrected to perfection. If anything, Ernest and Adam were far pickier that we were.
For anyone who has experienced working with a contractor before, there is always the concern that payment will be requested before work is done or that subcontractors may be unpaid resulting in liens on the home. DreamMaker covered all contingencies with their contract, requested payment only at times specified in the contract and provided signed release-of-lein forms.
While we are delighted with the final result of our remodel, we would caution homeowners to make certain everything they want done is spelled out in the project Scope document. We assumed towel and toilet paper bars were included, whereas there apparently had never been a selection specified in the Scope. While it was not a big deal; it was easy enough for us to buy and install these last minute items, it was an unwelcome surprise.
The other issue is getting the punch list resolved. This is the final touch-up list that results from living in the finished space and
noticing little discrepancies: ie, a drawer that doesn't close as smoothly as it should, second-coat paint missing from louvers, a loose faucet, etc. None of these make the space unusable, just nuisance issues that take time to correct when we wish the job would just be completed.
in fairness, these nuisance issues have been present in all of our previous contractor dealings. And, with DreamMaker they are certainly not a deal breaker, as we are now talking with them about taking on our kitchen.
The bathroom was large, but oddly laid out. The floors were carpeted, the vanities were back-to-back, and there was no toilet privacy. All that, plus pink countertops, shower, tub and toilet fixtures dictated a total demolition.
We shopped model homes for ideas, talked with kitchen and bath consultants in the big box stores, and visited several bath and kitchen specialty contractors before inviting anyone in for a bid. DreamMaker Bath and Kitchen was the only contractor invited and that was based on the tenor of several in-office visits. Owner Ernest Gilbert was both cautious and forthright in his approach, wanting to make certain we knew what we wanted, had realistic budget and time-table expectations and that there was a chemistry that could lead to a successful completed project.
Then, after making an on-site visit and taking measurements, the owner invited us back to his offices to discuss the scope of the job, review options in layouts -- all done with a computerized CAD program that allowed multiple mock-up views of our bathroom -- and
sort through multiple possibilities for cabinets, granite, and tile. After a couple of weeks of back-and-forth discussions fine-tuning the room layout, Ernest brought in a designer to work with us in the final selection of materials, colors and hardware. We've used designers before and there's no better way of ensuring the right "look."
The project was estimated at six weeks and took longer, by a couple of weeks. Still, there were workers on the job virtually every day. It was not a simple, nor an easy job. The space was gutted, floors jackhammered so plumbing could be reconfigured, and new walls and doors added. Adam, the lead carpenter on the job, is a gem. Not only is he skilled, but a perfectionist for getting the details right. He protected adjacent rooms with plastic barrier walls and plastic or paper sheeting on the floors, made certain the work space was cleaned daily and refuse hauled away. Remodeling is messy -- no getting around it -- but he made the mess tolerable.
There were a couple of hiccups along the way. The glass half-wall for the shower enclosure was slow in arriving, then had to be returned because it was cut wrong. The wood finishing trim for a wall of cabinets was a shade off. The sheetrock texturing in the commode area was poorly done the first time. But everything was corrected to perfection. If anything, Ernest and Adam were far pickier that we were.
For anyone who has experienced working with a contractor before, there is always the concern that payment will be requested before work is done or that subcontractors may be unpaid resulting in liens on the home. DreamMaker covered all contingencies with their contract, requested payment only at times specified in the contract and provided signed release-of-lein forms.
While we are delighted with the final result of our remodel, we would caution homeowners to make certain everything they want done is spelled out in the project Scope document. We assumed towel and toilet paper bars were included, whereas there apparently had never been a selection specified in the Scope. While it was not a big deal; it was easy enough for us to buy and install these last minute items, it was an unwelcome surprise.
The other issue is getting the punch list resolved. This is the final touch-up list that results from living in the finished space and
noticing little discrepancies: ie, a drawer that doesn't close as smoothly as it should, second-coat paint missing from louvers, a loose faucet, etc. None of these make the space unusable, just nuisance issues that take time to correct when we wish the job would just be completed.
in fairness, these nuisance issues have been present in all of our previous contractor dealings. And, with DreamMaker they are certainly not a deal breaker, as we are now talking with them about taking on our kitchen.
Jim W.
Apr 2013
Kitchen and Bath Remodeling, General Remodeling + 6 more
From start to finish the professionalism is amazing. Even when things went wrong, it was easily corrected and job changes were arranged smoothly with cost efficiency. We enjoyed working with Ernest and Adam so much that we are now contracted with them to redo our bathrooms.
Response from Gilbert Design Build
"This was our first experience working with this member, and it was a very enjoyable one. The transformation of their kitchen was beautiful."
Dwyer M.
Apr 2013
Kitchen and Bath Remodeling, General Remodeling + 4 more
From the very beginning of the project, we were very impressed with the professionalism and caring that was shown us by Ernest Gilbert and his team at DreamMaker. The designer understood exactly what we were looking for and the team was able to translate our ideas into reality. Ernest guided us through the whole process of selecting materials: cabinets, countertops, flooring tile, and backsplash tile that fit within our budget so we weren't overwhelmed with choices. When the work began, his lead carpenter, Adam, was in charge and he was wonderful to work with as well. He oversaw all the small details, and ensured all the contractors' work met quality controls. We were able to have our new kitchen completed in time for the holidays and the transformation was incredible! The finished product far exceed our expectations and I would definitely use DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen for any future remodeling projects.
Phyllis G.
Mar 2013
Kitchen and Bath Remodeling, General Remodeling
It was a very comfortable experience for such a big job. We were impressed from the very beginning when we began putting the plan together with visuals and samples and good suggestions from Mr. Gilbert. We thought we would be in a mess for a week and very surprised to have it completely finished in 3 and 1/2 days. The materials used are beautiful and top quality.
NANCY K.
Mar 2013
Kitchen and Bath Remodeling, General Remodeling + 2 more
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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 4.6 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