First Floor Family Renovation in Meredith NH

Project Description

Location: Meredith, New Hampshire

Year Completed: 2022

Subcontractors: A. Lee Interior Design, Squam Lakes Plumbing and Heating, Finer Tile & Masonry, Freer and Son HVAC, Lakeshore Electric, McGann Painting and Pressure Washing, John Groesser Plastering.

 

This project involved a full-scale renovation of the first floor of the home. The kitchen was completely remodeled, as well as the primary bedroom and bath, and the hallway bathroom and laundry room. An additional sitting area and built-in storage was added, along with an office space. All of the existing finishes were removed, and with the help of designer Allison Lockard, everything was updated for a more modern look. To create an open-concept space, the first floor layout was reworked to optimize the flow and functionality of the home.

 

The Success Story

Our goal for the project was to create a beautiful, usable space for this family to enjoy. The homeowners were looking for a more open-concept layout, so the floor plan was reworked to make better use of the space. In order to do this, some structural changes were made, including taking down a load-bearing wall and reinforcing it with a three-ply LVL support beam. All new Mathews Brothers white vinyl windows were installed and the dining room slider door was also replaced. Two mini-splits were installed by Freer and Son HVAC to more efficiently heat and cool the home. This, and the new windows and slider, will also improve energy efficiency. 

 

Modern Farmhouse Kitchen: 

We often think of the kitchen as one of the main focal points in the home; not only does it need to be functional, but it also serves just as much as an entertainment space. This kitchen has a light and bright feel and a modern farmhouse-style design. On the ceilings, we installed white shiplap and refinished the existing wood beams to accentuate the high, vaulted ceilings. All new cabinetry and granite countertops were added, the appliances were upgraded, and the light fixtures were updated for a refreshed look. 

 

Primary Bathroom:

In the primary bathroom, we installed a tiled shower with a glass door, which features a built-in niche, a shave shelf, and a corner shelf. The existing vanity was replaced, and a new built-in shelving unit provides additional storage space. Not only do these changes give the en-suite bathroom a more updated look, but they have also made the bathroom more practical for everyday use. 

 

Hallway Bathroom, Office & Built-Ins:

In the hallway half-bathroom, we updated the fixtures by changing out the vanity, installing a new toilet, and continuing the same luxury vinyl plank flooring into the bathroom that was used throughout the first floor. We also created a new laundry room area, as well as an additional sitting area, office, and built-in storage space in the room off of the kitchen. This has given the family a multi-functional space that serves as an entryway, sitting room, and an office area as needed.

CLIENT FEEDBACK

Positive: Professionalism, Punctuality, Quality, Responsiveness, Value
Lighthouse Contracting Group was amazing to work with from start to finish. When we first met with Jeremy, we were unsure of exactly what we wanted done to our house but explained what our hope was. We needed another bedroom but also wanted to gut and redo our kitchen and make the first floor flow. He listened to us and suggested a complete first floor remodel because it would meet all of our requests and goals. The design team he paired with helped bring our dream to life. Not only did we remodel our kitchen and make it open concept with our living room, but they redid our first floor bathroom and created a first floor master suite that is absolutely beautiful. The project was within our budget and all of the materials and finishes are exactly what we hoped for!

Cody, the lead carpenter, and the rest of the team, as well as the subcontractors, were nothing short of phenomenal. Whenever an issue arose, because let's face it - they always do in construction, they handled it swiftly and with transparency. They accepted nothing short of the best and gave us the absolute best in return. They were timely, professional, and detailed in their work. The craftsmanship was top-notch.

While construction is normally stressful, the Lighthouse team made it stress-free. They communicated with us daily via their app and weekly at our meetings. We are in awe of the transformation of our home! We look forward to contracting with them again for our next home project!

#LOVEYOURREMODEL #LIGHTHOUSE

Sarah and Jim
Sarah and Jim
modern rustic lake house renovation

Modern Rustic Family Lake House on Winnisquam

modern rustic lake house renovation
before and after lake house kitchen renovation laconia nh

Project Description

Location:   Lake Winnisquam, Laconia, NH 03246
Year Completed:   2022
SubcontractorsLauren Milligan Design; ALLC Mechanical; Lakeshore Electric; Pella Windows and Doors; McGann Painting; John Groesser Plastering; Finer Tile and Masonry; Surface Creations of New Hampshire; Quality Insulation of Meredith.
Commercial Photography:   Ridgelight Studio

The transformation of this lake house first floor was centered around making memories. It was extremely important to the homeowner that Lighthouse Contracting Group retain the design and aesthetic throughout the renovation. The remodeled kitchen, dining room, half bath, living room and office area should appear as if it’s part of the original 1966 design.

The Success Story

Modern Rustic Kitchen;

To enlarge the kitchen, a full bath was moved and remodeled to a powder room. This ensured the kitchen became the gathering space of the home.

An open concept design with access to the living and dining room areas. The stone fireplace is the focal point of each space.

One of the favorite features of this kitchen remodel is the custom range hood mantel. We utilized an old reclaimed barn beam that the homeowner found. Custom brackets were also built to support the hood.

The range hood cabinetry and patterned backsplash tile were all designed to fit between the existing beams and columns. Including, the kitchen island.

The windows were re-framed to fit nicely on either side of the new range hood cabinetry. As this space is partly below grade (the ground), framing them created a recessed look. To complete the design, we installed quartz window sills.

The DuraSupreme cabinets and cabinet accessories are designed to maximize space and storage. This ensures the homeowners get the most use and functionality out of the space.

Living Room:

In the corner of the living room a window was removed and a built-in bar area created. Designed with custom cabinetry featuring beautiful leaded glass it matches the modern rustic aesthetic of the kitchen.

The ceiling is wired for in-ceiling speakers throughout the living area. A great feature for entertaining.

The Johnson Hardwood luxury vinyl plank flooring provides a unique reclaimed wood aesthetic while being water resistant and durable.

Office Nook:

What was once a narrow, dark hallway, used for the family’s beverage center, is now a custom office nook. We removed the small window and replaced it with a larger one. This created a beautifully lit space with amazing views of Lake Winnisquam.

The desk area is designed with a custom built, floating Walnut desk. On the wall above are accompanying floating walnut shelves. 

CUSTOMER REVIEW

ORIGINAL HOUSE TOUR

Gilford NH Lake House Craftsman Exterior

Updating A Gilford NH Lakefront Home

Gilford NH Lake House Craftsman Exterior
gilford nh whole house renovation before

Project Description

Location:   Lake Winnipesaukee, Gilford, NH 03249
Year Completed:   2022
SubcontractorsDecorative Interiors; Freer and Son Heating and Air Conditioning; ALLC Mechanical; Pella Windows and Doors; Forrest Noe Painting; High Definition Painting Inc; John Groesser Plastering; Lakeshore Electric; Energyshield of New Hampshire; Finer Tile and Masonry.

The homeowners purchased this beautiful 4,800 SQFT Gilford NH lakefront home and wanted to make it work well for their family and lifestyle. As the home was 20+ years old, the goal of this project was to completely renovate the interior and exterior. An open concept design was planned to improve the flow on the first floor. 

The Success Story

The entire exterior of this home was updated with durable, low maintenance products. Tando Beachhouse Shake Siding complements the evergreen aluminum fascia and soffits. TIVA PVC decking and Key-Link Fencing black cable railings transform this lakeside deck. Custom painted TruExterior exterior trim around the windows and entry doors match the fascia and soffits.

Previously, when you walked through the front door there was an obstructed view of Lake Winnipesaukee. This was due to a loft that covered half of the living space. We removed the loft area and completely re-framed the gable wall. Now, when you enter the home, all you see is a dramatic view of the lake.

Kitchen:

The kitchen was completely redesigned with a new layout. The slate blue Viking range and wall oven are a favorite of the client. Along with the Cambria quartz countertops.

Additionally, a screened porch was built off the kitchen. This provides a wonderful outdoor entertaining space. Especially, during the buggy season in NH! 

Deck:

The expansive deck on this home was built with TIVADEK Chestnut PVC decking. Key-Link cable railings give the deck a clean, modern look without sacrificing the 180 degree lake views. 

Lower Level:

Karndean Luxury Vinyl Plank, a waterproof, durable and resilient flooring, was used throughout the lower level including the bathrooms. Vinyl plank is a great choice for high traffic areas. Especially, where friends and family are coming in and out of the house from the lake and the yard.  

On the lower level there was an existing guest bathroom, with unfinished space behind the bedroom. To maximize the space, we opted to add an en suite bathroom to create a full guest suite.

The last stop on our lower level tour are the two home offices. Due to remote work, the professional homeowners both wanted custom spaces. Collaborating with Decorative Interiors, we designed and built two unique spaces fitting each homeowner’s personality and style.

YOUTUBE PROJECT DOCUSERIES

Watch this Gilford NH lakefront home transform. Check out our home renovation docuseries where we share 9 months of project details. Each site visit video includes a home tour, teachable moments and Lakes Region vendor highlights.

FINAL HOME TOUR: TEAM HIGHLIGHTS

kitchen remodel rustic post and beam

Post and Beam Lake House Renovation

kitchen remodel rustic post and beam
kitchen before remodel by lighthouse contracting group

Project Description

Location:   Moultonborough, NH 03254
Year Completed:   2021
SubcontractorsLauren Milligan Design; Freer and Son; ALLC Mechanical; Pella Windows and Doors; Forrest Noe Painting; John Groesser Plastering; Sheehan Tileworks. 
Commercial Photography:   Ridgelight Studio

The homeowners purchased this second lakefront property with the intent of living there full time. However, the interior and exterior required a full renovation.

2020 saw the landscaping, decking and siding updated. 2021 was the year to tackle the inside. Specifically, the kitchen, bathrooms and basement. The result, an updated, post and beam style design with gorgeous fixtures, cabinets, lighting and more.

The Success Story

Finished Basement

The homeowners love to entertain their family and friends. With this in mind, they needed additional space. Specifically, for housing guests, a private home office, a home gym and a spot for everyone to chill out. The solution: a finished basement with rustic man cave and custom bar.

Master Bedroom & Bath

Located on the main floor are the master suite, kitchen and a full bathroom. The master bath was completely gutted, and the room redesigned to be one open, seamless space. With heated floors, custom cabinetry, ultra-quiet fans, and a shower built for two, this bathroom might be one of our best yet!

Kitchen

Moving along to the kitchen, where the first item you see is the island. Dura Supreme cabinets coupled with a copper prep sink make up this work station.

All the laminate countertops were replaced with marble and custom fitted around a hammered copper farmhouse sink. To aid the chef of the family, cable lights were strung above from the post and beams to illuminate the space.

In the far corner, the laundry closet (which was moved to the master bath), was converted into a spacious pantry with custom sliding door. As you turn to leave the kitchen, a rugged, copper exhaust range hood extends above a WOLF range and oven.

Main Floor Full Bath

The full bath has that “wow” factor. With a lively, patterned tile floor, custom cabinetry and fixtures coupled with a natural stone shower. Any guest would be spoiled to stay here. As a result, it is one of our favorite spots in the house!

Second Floor Guest Bath

Walking upstairs to the second floor, we peek inside the guest bath. While not as showy as the one below, its simplicity and natural, neutral design is what appeals to us.

CLIENT FEEDBACK

We would like to thank Lighthouse Contracting Group and all the tradesmen they use. The project went extremely well and on schedule. We had constant communication concerning the renovations and always felt heard and involved. The craftsmanship is impeccable and has shown us what true quality construction is! They went above and beyond our expectations and requests. Best renovation experience ever...

Eric and Glenda
Eric and Glenda

HGTV EXPERIENCE

Our customers requested a “Move That Bus” experience and our lips were sealed until reveal day. That was 4 months in the making!

Watch our Love Your Remodel Reveal Day episode 1 to see the initial reactions of the Post and Beam homeowners. It’s priceless.

modern farmhouse makeover laconia nh

Modern Farmhouse Makeover: Lakefront Outdoor Living

modern farmhouse makeover laconia nh
before and after modern farmhouse renovation

Project Description

Location:   Laconia, NH 03246
Year Completed:   2020
SubcontractorsLauren Milligan Design; Middleton Lumber; Cyr Lumber; Pella Windows and Doors
Commercial Photography:   Ridgelight Studio

The goal of this project was to make the most of the Lake Winnisquam waterfront. The homeowner wanted to fully experience lake life using multiple outdoor gathering spaces. The result is an updated, modern farmhouse style design with a screened porch with cathedral ceiling, a sitting area with fire pit and a third sitting/conversation area complete with smart home light features.

The Success Story

The entire exterior of the home was sided with Boral TruExterior siding and trim. (click the link to learn more about pricing and product details.) It is a low maintenance, moisture resistant wood-alternative that looks just like wood once it is painted. The homeowner chose a smooth white finish in a nickel gap and board and batten design.

All the white windows in the home were replaced with black Pella windows and a front porch was constructed. These were crucial design details that gave this traditional home that sought after, industrial farmhouse look. One last detail on the front of the home, was the addition of a garage overhang with smart, ambient lighting.

On the back of the house, we built a 16’ x 19’ screened in porch with cathedral ceiling. Each fir board was painstakingly chosen to build the tongue and groove design. The screen porch houses a 14-foot outdoor kitchen, fit for a chef with features like 100% weatherproof cabinets, Lynx appliances, a powerful exhaust hood and UV, scratch and stain resistant countertops. On the one wall, framed by insect, moisture-resistant board and batten siding, is a smart television nook. Another great feature for getting the family outdoors!

This outdoor living space also includes a sitting area with fire pit, plumbed into the propane, and a catwalk that leads you to a sitting/conversation area. The deck itself is Azek TimberTech PVC decking in the color cypress. The cocktail rail on the radius railing creates clean lines that lead you from one area to another.

This entire outdoor gathering space is custom designed for all day lake living. At night, the smart ambient lighting can be seen on the deck posts, under the steps and inside the ceiling of the screened in porch. Each light can be controlled via an app on the homeowner’s phone.

This modern farmhouse was part of The Lakes Region 2020 Parade of Homes. A self-guided tour of 8 crafted homes featuring superior designs by premier builders and trade professionals.

Published

1. Best of the Lakes Region Best of Summer 2020 – September 5, 2020

2. The Laker Fall 2020 edition – fall 2020

Awards

NH Cornerstone Awards 2020 Winner
Gold – Residential Remodel $300,000 – $500,000
Gold – Best Design for Outdoor Kitchen
Silver – Outdoor Living Space

Client Feedback

Parade of Homes 2020 Tour

Videos

If you are interested in learning more about the home renovation process, watch our videos. Content includes drone footage of the build during the construction phase and views of the renovation from Lake Winnisquam.

colonial style home open concept kitchen and dining

Rocky Retreat: Craftsman Inspired New Home Construction

parade of homes entry craftsman inspired colonial home build gilford nh
quartz countertop kitchen dark wood cabinets wide plank hardwood flooring

Project Description

Client:   The Doucet Family
Location:   Gilford, NH 03226
Year Completed:   2017-2018
SubcontractorsBrittain Plumbing; Mike Harvey Electrical; Quality Insulation; Master Plasters; Sheehan Tile; TF Fletcher Excavation; R.A. Dunlap & Sons Excavation; East Coast Foundations; Gilford Well; KCL Windows & Siding; Forrest Noe & Sons Painting

This young family was looking to build their “forever” home in the Gilford Community for their growing family. The result is a comfortable and practical, craftsman inspired, 2500 SF, 4 BR, 3.5 Bath, colonial home with many smart home features.

The Success Story

Developing a raw site can present many challenges; bringing utilities in, blasting ledge, shaping the landscape and all while working through the winter. The home features a first floor office, 3 bedrooms, 2 baths upstairs with a guest bedroom, bath, playroom and den in the finished basement.

Smart home features include a driveway alarm with wifi connectivity for the exterior lighting, locks, thermostats, garage doors, whole home audio and surveillance system. Energy performance was a driving factor in many of the products used in this project. Closed cell spray foam insulation helps make the home very comfortable while also efficient. All appliances used are energy star rated thus making the home very efficient.

This home was part of The Lakes Region 2018 Parade of Homes. A self-guided tour of 11 crafted homes featuring superior designs by premier builders and trade professionals.

living room with a panoramic lake view

The Refuge: Governor’s Island Renovation

living room with a panoramic lake view
10' ceiling white kitchen with coffered ceiling

Project Description

Client:   The Milligan Family
Location:   Governor’s Island, Gilford, NH 03249
Year Completed:   2017-2018
SubcontractorsDaniels Electric; Quality Insulation; Sheehan Tile; Master Plasters; No Limits Metalworks; Chadwick Mechanical; Meridian Construction; East Coast Foundations; Belknap Landscaping
Commercial Photography:   John Benford Photography

The client purchased this home in late summer of 2017 with the vision of creating a welcoming place that the extended family could gather and enjoy together.

The Success Story

We had to completely demo the interior and exterior of this building. The 30’ x 32’ open concept living area used to be three separate rooms with a fireplace in the middle. We removed the walls, re-framed the roof to move the ceilings up to 10’ and installed 1×8 V-groove in the coffered ceiling. This created a stunning space in the home which included the kitchen, dining table and TV sitting area. We also built the shelving and cabinetry around the fireplace in the music room. A coffered ceiling was built in the space with the addition of columns and pilasters to tie it all together.

We also added a laundry room, created a new powder room, remodeled the master bath, and built a stunning radius deck with attached screened porch. The deck includes a custom powder coated aluminum railing with mahogany rails and recessed panel newel posts. We also included an outdoor kitchen on the deck. All the gable ends were extended two feet to match the eaves with the addition of knee brackets on the front with gable brackets on the lake side.

This was a large scale, Governor’s Island renovation with many changes to the existing structure. One of the biggest challenges was trying to achieve the level of detail in the finish work. The home was a 1950’s structure with multiple additions and alterations throughout the years.

The result is a stunning home with beautiful landscape and outdoor living space.

Winning Design

NH Home Builders Association awarded this project the 2018 Cornerstone Silver Winner for Residential Remodel over $500,000. The Cornerstone Awards are presented yearly to recognize excellence in the building industry.

Client Feedback

Jeremy Doucet and Lighthouse Contracting Group know how to pay attention to the details.

We have known Jeremy for years, having contracted him to do many smaller projects. When considering a contractor to take on an extensive renovation of a house originally built in 1945, we chose someone we knew could handle the details…Jeremy Doucet and Lighthouse Contracting Group.

From the first day of construction, Jeremy and his team worked in complete harmony, always maintaining an immaculately clean job site and dealing with each new challenge only an older house can bring with careful consideration and a well-though out plan of action.

Attention to details, in-depth knowledge of both products and their applications and expert craftsmanship allow Lighthouse Contracting Group to excel in their delivery of a quality result. Jeremy is committed to completing his projects in perfect condition. I don’t think we ever had a chance to offer him a punch list because he had already addressed any unfinished items!

We highly recommend Jeremy Doucet and Lighthouse Contracting Group to anyone who would like to work with a true professional and quality craftsmen.

Thank you, Jeremy, for crafting your art and giving us a beautiful home to enjoy for years to come.

Jerry and Barbara
Jerry and Barbara