Tips & Resources

We would like to extend a personal invitation to you to visit us April 20 and 21st as we showcase our 2013 Parade of Homes Remodeling project. From 10 am – 6 pm each day we will be at the home, which was a whole house renovation, showing people the extraordinary features of this stunning home.

This home, located in the heart of Winter Park at 2908 Cove Trail, was a project like no other and gave us the unique opportunity to transform this 1964 vintage home into the buyer’s ‘dream home’.

While the home had been remodeled several times in the past, it was in need of a much more contemporary look and feel. We redesigned and updated the entire home, bringing to life the dreams and goals the homeowners desired. Join us and we will take you through this wonderful remodeled home.

A spacious open floor plan was designed for the family room and kitchen areas by expanding rooms and removing walls. The original kitchen, which was small and isolated, was relocated and transformed into a large multifunctional gourmet kitchen, featuring a stunning tray ceiling. However, the crown jewel of the home is without a doubt the timeless custom designed wall-to-wall, floor to ceiling fireplace and entertainment center!

The result? The homeowners have the best of both worlds, a beautiful home in an established neighborhood with newly custom designed home features and modern conveniences. Join us on April 20 & 21st to learn more and experience what it is like to ‘create your masterpiece’.

See you at the 2013 Parade of Homes!

If you’ve decided to move forward with a remodel or addition to you home, or you have a remodeling idea but aren’t sure if it is feasible, it’s time to contact Jonathan McGrath Construction. JMC will spend time researching and preparing before you start your remodeling project. By doing this, you will benefit from not only a successful completion of your vision for your home, but a greater return on your investment!

Our process helps homeowners make a more informed buying decision. When both parties spend time together researching and preparing before constructing a remodel or addition, there is always a better end results. JMC believes in building harmony between homeowners’ needs, wants, and BUDGETS.

Our in-depth process educates and assists you in determining the most practical products and construction methods to complete your renovation project within your budget. No surprises! We have resources such as ‘The Conflict-Free Home Remodeling Process’ that offers a more logical way of planning for and completing a remodeling project.

You are not just getting a ‘bid’ or ‘estimate’ for your project you are embarking on a step-by-step process for identifying your wants and needs in effort to establish the most accurate budget.  Our mission is to assist you in learning if your dream is possible before your valuable resources of time, energy and money are spent.

We’ve been remodeling homes in Central Florida for 29 years. Our clients know they can trust us to partner with them in creating their dream home.

“We first met Jack and his team at a Parade of Homes Remodeler’s Showcase. We were very impressed with the quality of the work done at the home, and also with all the folks we met with Jonathan McGrath Construction. When we were ready to begin our home remodel project, we contacted several contractors. The professionalism and quick response of Jack and his staff stood out among the competitors. After meeting with him to go over the project, we did not hesitate to move forward with Jonathan McGrath Construction.”

Suzanne, Longwood, FL

If you’ve decided to move forward with a remodel or addition to your home or you don’t know if your idea is even feasible, you’ve got to learn more about REMODology. The entire premise behind REMODology is: spending time researching and preparing before you start your remodeling project will lead to a greater return on your investment and a much more successful completion of your vision for your home.

What is REMODology?

REMODology Offers Homeowner Education and Access to Remodelers

Remodeling your home doesn’t have to be difficult, and REMODology’s resources can help. REMODology is a service that educates you and assists in determining the most practical products and construction methods to complete your project within your budget.

• Homeowner Book Up-Front Remodeling
  Learn what you should know before starting a home remodel project.
• The Conflict-Free Home Remodeling Process
  Learn how to build harmony between your budget and the design, your family and the construction crews, your savings and unnecessary changes.
• Find a Remodeling Partner
  REMODology provides access to professionals who practice The Conflict-Free Home Remodeling Process. This link connects you to professionals who can personally assist you with your project.

You love your neighborhood; can’t bear the idea of up-rooting your family, but you’re busting at the seams! What do you do? You are not alone; millions of other Americans are facing this classic housing dilemma every day. Do you remodel or move?

Here are some of the primary reasons you should consider REMODELING your home instead of moving, or as we like to say “Don’t Move, Improve!”

1. Location…location…location! Let’s face it, in real estate it is ALL about location. Being in the ‘right’ neighborhood, in the ‘right’ school district, with the ‘right’ neighbors is important to your overall quality of life! In most cases, the home you are living in is meeting those basic requirements. Perhaps you love your oversized backyard or the convenience to all of your favorite  local dining and shopping venues. Do you really want to give all that up? It IS possible to have the best of both worlds…..a beautiful new home in an older, established neighborhood. This can be accomplished through professional remodeling.  So, instead of uprooting your family, give your home a make-over.
2. It’s not only about space – it’s about personal preference. The first question we ask our clients is ‘What’s important to YOU in your home?” It is critical to determine and prioritize the spaces and places in your home that are most relevant to your lifestyle. For some families, it is all about the kitchen, for others it might be about expanding the space in the master living areas. Regardless, there is no ‘one size fits all’ remedy to improving your home. So, instead of starting over with a new home, why not focus on the areas of your existing home that need improving.
3. Remodeling is less expensive than moving. There is a misconception among many people that remodeling your existing home will cost MUCH more than moving to a new home. This is simply not true. When you work with an experienced and qualified remodeler, one of the first things they will do is work with you to create a plan that fits within your budget. Also, when it comes to moving into a new home, there are many hidden costs that need to be considered. For example, time off from work, hiring packers and movers, purchasing new coordinating furniture, finance charges, closing costs, as well as realtor fees…..not to mention the overall stress involved with moving to a new home.
4. Remodeling your home allows you to customize your space. When you choose to remodel your home, seldom used spaces become transformed into more livable spaces. Do you have a formal dining room that NEVER gets used? Why not turn that into an entertainment/media room? Have your children left the house? Turn that spare bedroom into a home office. When you remodel, living space can be customized and personalized to meet your specific lifestyle needs.
5. You have more than money invested in your home. This is probably one of the most important reasons to consider remodeling versus moving into a new home. Your home is an extension of yourself and your family. A home is a place where memories are made. Over the years you have invested in your ‘home’, whether it was through decorating, painting or landscaping. Your home has a distinctive personality. Remodeling is another one to enhance and improve upon your investment.

The Parade of Homes™ has been an annual event in Central Florida for more than 50 years. Produced each year by the Home Builders Association of Metro Orlando to showcase the area’s best of the best, the Parade of Homes™ provides the Central Florida community with an opportunity to learn about the latest in home design, energy efficiency, green building applications, new home choices and so much more.

This year visit entries ranging from new communities, new homes, whole house renovations specialty remodeling. Whether you are looking for a new home or to remodel your current home, the 58th Annual Parade of Homes has something for everyone!

So MARK YOUR CALENDARS! This year’s Parade runs April 20 & 21st and April 27 & 28th!

The Remodel Showcase will be the weekend of the 20 & 21st. Jonathan McGrath Construction is proud to have an entry in the Parade. Be sure to come out and see how this Winter Park home was transformed! The entire interior of the home was remodeled! Jonathan McGrath Construction, acting as architect, designer and builder on the project, redesigned and updated this home bringing to life the dreams and goals the homeowners desired.

The result? The homeowners have the best of both worlds, a beautiful established neighborhood with a newly custom designed home that is energy efficient and offers all the modern conveniences that fit into their lifestyle.

Marion McGrath, co-owner of Jonathan McGrath Construction and CEO of REMODology, was a featured speaker at the National Association of Home Builder’s (NAHB) International Builders’ Show in Las Vegas January 22 – 24, 2013.

McGrath spoke to a standing room only crowd about  ‘Getting Paid for Your Time Even During Estimating, Building & Pre-Construction’ on behalf of REMODology. Her program focused on how successful remodelers consider all aspects of the remodeling project before doing anything on the project site, and will provide expert advice about what points in the process you should ask for payment for your pre-construction time.

“Most professional remodelers mistakenly think all of the work in the pre-construction phase must be provided at no cost,” said McGrath. “This session was all about how to get paid for your time at every step of the way and feel comfortable about it.”

REMODology is a service that helps the homeowner make a more informed buying decision while the remodeler receives payment for time spent planning the project. When both parties spend time together researching and preparing before constructing a remodel or addition, there is a greater return on the homeowner’s investment and a much more successful completion of the project.

You LOVE the neighborhood; can’t bear the idea of up-rooting your family, but you are BUSTING at the seams! Sound familiar?

If you are like millions of other Americans facing this classic housing dilemma: remodel or move? Here are some things you should consider about this all too important decision.

1. It’s not only about space – it’s about personal preference. Sure there are other, larger homes in the area surrounding your home, but do these homes represent your style; do they serve your family’s needs?

2. Making a move costs much more than just a higher mortgage payment. Consider all costs when contemplating a move such as: time away from work, movers, new coordinating furniture, finance charges, closing costs, as well as other additional fees.

3. Remodeling your home allows you to customize your space. Seldom used spaces in your home can be transformed into more livable spaces, where you family will love to gather.

4. You have much more than money invested in your home. Over the years you have made your house your home, whether it be through decorating, painting or landscaping. Your house is an extension of you.

To learn more about remodeling options contact us at 407- 260-8077.

Marion McGrath, co-owner of Jonathan McGrath Construction and CEO of REMODology, has been selected as a speaker at the National Association of Home Builder’s (NAHB) International Builders’ Show in Las Vegas January 22 – 24, 2013.

McGrath will be conducting the workshop ‘Getting Paid for Your Time Even During Estimating, Building & Pre-Construction’ on behalf of REMODology on January 22^nd. The program will focus on how successful remodelers consider all aspects of the remodeling project before doing anything on the project site, and will provide expert advice about what points in the process you should ask for payment for your pre-construction time.

“REMODology was the brainchild of Stephen Gidus, who passed away recently from cancer,” explained McGrath. “It was his passion and purpose in life to unite the homeowner with professional remodeling firms in order to form a mutually rewarding and respectful partnership. His legacy lives on with this program.”

“Most professional remodelers mistakenly think all of the work in the pre-construction phase must be provided at no cost,” continued McGrath. “This session is about how to get paid for your time at every step of the way and feel comfortable about it.”

REMODology is a service that helps the homeowner make a more informed buying decision while the remodeler receives payment for time spent planning the project. When both parties spend time together researching and preparing before constructing a remodel or addition, there is a greater return on the homeowner’s investment and a much more successful completion of the project.

The International Builders’ Show is the largest annual new home construction show in the world, featuring the latest and most advanced building products and services ever assembled.  In addition, more than 100 educational sessions featuring national renowned speakers will be conducted over the four day show. More than 55,000 builders, remodelers and other members of the home building industry are expected to attend the event.

For more than a quarter of a century, Jonathan McGrath Construction has been creating masterpieces for their clients throughout Central Florida. A full service design remodeling company, Jonathan McGrath Construction partners with their clients to transform their homes and living spaces into works of art by creating and building unique designs for each remodeling project, all within a predetermined budget and timeframe.

A Home for the Holidays!

Dear Jack - Every year around this time my husband and I start discussing the possibility of remodeling our kitchen. We do a lot of entertaining during the holidays, and our kitchen has always been an issue. The space is not efficient any longer and it is very dated. Any suggestions on remodeling ideas that will make the kitchen more open and welcoming? Janice S., Altamonte Springs

Janice – You are not alone. Many people begin discussing remodeling options during the holidays because that is when they really notice spaces and areas in the home that are not working for them. My advice for you is to enjoy this holiday season with your current space and begin taking notes on how you would improve the kitchen. After the holidays, give me a call. We will set up a complimentary consultation to review your ‘wish list’ for your dream kitchen. We will discuss your project objectives and goals, design options and how to get started so that you can celebrate your 2013 holidays in your dream kitchen.

Are you thinking about remodeling YOUR kitchen or bath? Before you do, be sure to contact us for your FREE Kitchen or Bath Remodeling checklist. It has all the information you need to know BEFORE you start your remodeling project. Just send us an e-mail! marion@jonathanmcgrathconstruction.com

Jonathan McGrath Construction was honored to be voted this year’s 2012 Bathroom of the Year recipient by Orlando Home & Leisure magazine.

“With the economy slowly improving and people less skittish about investing in their homes, builders and remodelers are cautiously optimistic that better days are at hand. That somewhat less gloomy mood was reflected in Orlando Home & Leisure’s 2012 Home of the Year Awards, which attracted an assortment of intriguing entries.”

Here’s that the judges had to say about the Bathroom of the Year: “This is the essence of what good remodelers do, incorporating existing elements of a room and tailoring a project to a client’s specific needs.”

BATHROOM OF THE YEAR
Luxury Master Bathroom
Entered by Jonathan McGrath Construction

Is your home healthy? What does it mean to have a Healthy Home?

Jonathan McGrath Construction is an expert in healthy home remodeling. Green building, aging in place building/remodeling, RRP lead removal and using best practices is all part of a healthy home.

Have you read this month’s Orlando Home and Leisure Magazine? This month features their annual salute to the coolest people and places in Orlando titled, “Simply The Best”.

Jonathan McGrath Construction is honored to be chosen as one of the “Remodelers” for this year’s 2012 Simply The Best!

Click here to read OHL magazine’s review of Jonathan McGrath Construction in this year’s Simply the Best issue.

April 14-15, 2012  10am to 6pm

309 Stonebridge Drive – Longwood, Florida

Have you ever found a house in the most perfect neighborhood but wished it had all of today’s modern features?

Well that is exactly what happened to our client and they now have the best of both worlds…perfect neighborhood and a custom designed renovated home that fits their lifestyle.

Below are BEFORE pictures of the 1970′s kitchen, family room and master bathroom.

We would appreciate it very much if you would share this invitation with your friends and family so we can get the word out about our Parade of Homes entry.  Most of all, we would appreciate seeing you there!  More information coming soon.

Are you looking for free tickets to the Orlando Home & Garden Show?

Over the holidays, were you dreaming about how nice it would be to have a larger more efficient kitchen?  Wish you had more room for your guests to mingle in your family/living room, or a new master bedroom suite addition just for you.  Maybe your dream is for a beautiful new bathroom to soak your stress away in a spa tub or shower?

Did you decide that 2012 was going to be the year you were definitely going to complete your renovation or addition?   Have you heard, consumers are optimistic about the economy and unemployment is going down, so no more excuses, it’s time to get serious about your plans.

Jonathan McGrath Construction will be at the Orlando Home and Garden Show NEXT weekend, January 13-15 at the Orange County Convention Center.  We have a limited amount of free tickets so give us a call (407) 260-8077.

Taking your dream to reality whenever you are ready!

Upfront Style:

A Charming New Face for a 1960′s Ranch Home

Problem: The owners had strong roots in their neighborhood with friends, schools and church. However, they longed for an updated look and a friendly front porch. How were they going to get a new attractive look… without leaving the neighborhood?

Solution: The solution was to create a new charming home exterior that fit into the style of the neighborhood. Jack McGrath was careful to maintain the dignity of the original circa 1950′s ranch home style. He cleverly gave the residence a face-lift by adding a large, inviting front porch and outdoor relaxation area. Jack masterfully created visual balance to the exterior with the new spaces and design elements. Carefully designing fashionable columns, arches and an elegant tongue and groove ceiling, he delightfully enhanced the home’s exterior.

Want to Create your Perfect Home? Contact us today for your Complimentary Consultation.

Suite Retreat:

Smart Solutions Help Homeowners Sleep Tight!

Problem: With the best of intentions, the homeowners bravely began the renovation on their new master retreat by themselves. It was not long after beginning that they felt totally overwhelmed. Plus, they had purchased many of the building products from the local home supply store. Now what?

Solution: Jonathan McGrath Construction solved their dilemma. Expert Jack McGrath knew exactly how to solve the problem, giving the owners a beautiful new spacious master retreat. Plus Jack managed to do it with the newly purchased home supplies! With over 25 years of design/build experience, Jack McGrath had the knowledge to remedy a highly complex situation. He masterminded a new floor plan that integrated the needs of the owners into a design that seamlessly blended the new retreat with the rest of the home.

Want to Create your Perfect Home? Contact us today to schedule your Complimentary Consultation.

Perfect Vision:

Breathe Life into an Outdated Home

Problem: Can personality and livability replace a drab, small, closed-in, dated home interior?

Solution:Yes, if it starts on a solid foundation of expertise. With over 25 years of design/build experience, Jack McGrath had the eye to breathe life into the dated dwelling, creating a charming Key West style home that feels like a year-round vacation spot.

Jack cleverly brought the home’s lakefront beach feel into the home, creating a festive and relaxed atmosphere. Authentic Mexican hand made tile accents and ceiling detail provide the fine custom look.

Smartly built, with practical energy efficient features, the home is equipped to provide the owner with a significant savings on energy costs. In addition, cleverly designed and built, the home contains special features to accommodate the couple’s needs as they age.

Want to Create your Perfect Home? Contact us today to schedule a Complimentary Consultation.

Looking Up:

A Small Space is Endowed with a Big Look

Problem: Do you think there is little hope for your kitchen with 8-foot ceilings? Guess again.

Solution: The homeowners had been living in their 1970′s Colonial-style home in Wekiva for some time, making due with a kitchen that fell short of their dream. They wanted a much larger, modern kitchen, with plenty of natural light. How were they going to raise the confining 8-foot ceilings cost effectively?

By enlisting the aid of Jack McGrath, the family found an expert who had a vision to create their dreams—cost effectively.

Raising the roof was an expensive proposition. Innovatively, Jack achieved the new ceiling height by lowering the floor! The kitchen extension features a glass window wall, bringing in plenty of natural light and a lush tropical view!

Want to Create your Dream Kitchen? Contact us today to schedule your Complimentary Consultation.

New Ideas for Outdated Kitchens and Bathrooms

Are you tired of having an outdated kitchen, old flooring and faucets that drip relentlessly no matter what you do?

Does your bathroom still look like it did when you moved in years ago? Or maybe you’ve decided to move out altogether and start fresh, but are finding that your dated home is making the process of selling even more difficult?

Maybe it’s time you consider some other options? A bath or kitchen remodel is one of the best ways to increase value of a home and provide the greatest return on an investment. When considering a remodeling project there are two things to consider – budget and purpose. How much do you want to spend and why do you want to remodel? The answers will help guide you through the rest of the process.

Think about what frustrates you most as you go about your routine and take notes. Next time you are preparing dinner, make notes as to what changes would make it easier and more efficient. Different layout? An island? Cabinets reconfigured? If it’s the bath that needs updating, would you change out the shower to a bath or create two separate spaces? Maybe it feels overcrowded and simply replacing the vanity with a smaller one is all that you need. Or do you just want to gut it and start over with a new fresh design and a larger space?

Truly, your options for remodeling your bathroom or kitchen are endless. Plan and budget ahead and consult a true remodeling expert to ensure the job is done to your satisfaction. So what are you waiting for?? Contact Central Florida’s premier remodeling company today.

HBA of Metro Orlando Recognizes Tom Wry

Tom Wry, Jonathan McGrath Construction’s Production Supervisor, was honored last evening with the GOLDEN HAMMER AWARD from the HBA of Metro Orlando.

Tom joined Jonathan McGrath Construction in January of 2001 and is a integral part of the company.  His strong work ethic, incredible attention to details and great customer service is incomparable.

This was a very well deserved award for Tom and we congratulate and thank him for his dedication!

Be Prepared for Hurricane Season

Print this information and keep it handy. You may have lists from other sources but this one has a contractor you can trust when you really are in need!!

JONATHAN MCGRATH CONSTRUCTION – 407-260-8077

We’ve all heard the predictions for this year’s hurricane season and it will be an active one. No need to panic, just be prepared ahead of time. Below are some tips to help you get ready. Most importantly, keep our phone number handy, because you will always be a priority should you need anything:

1) Check your roof and gutters. Don’t want to get on your roof, use binoculars and note the areas that have loose or ripped shingles and make certain the gutters are attached to move the water away from your home to reduce flooding in the interior.

2) Installing plywood shutters over all exposed windows and other glass surfaces (including skylights) can offer a high level of protection from flying debris, if installed properly. An important tip, have the shutters cut and ready before any storms approach and mark each one and store them so they can be easily and quickly installed when necessary.

3) Trim and remove any damaged or weak tree limbs that could become “missiles” during a storm.

4) Consider purchasing a generator now, before the rush. For safety reasons, NEVER run a generator in the home or garage.

5) Make sure your home is fully covered from hurricane and flood damage. It’s always a good idea to talk with your insurance agent to be certain.

6) Prepare your hurricane kit (check out the list below)

Jonathan McGrath Construction is available for all of your renovation, custom home and maintenance needs. Now relax, you are in good hands!

HURRICANE CHECKLIST

The Atlantic Hurricane Season runs from June 1 – November 30. This checklist is provided to assist you in making preparations for the upcoming Hurricane Season.

PREPARING AHEAD OF THE STORM

* Review your insurance policy to determine if you have adequate coverage. Home Insurance Policies do not cover damage caused by flood. A separate Flood Policy is needed to protect your property from flooding. To obtain more information contact your independent agent.

* Prepare an inventory of your personal property and document with photos or videotape. Keep one copy at home and another at a location away from home that will not be damaged in a storm.

* Plan an evacuation route and destination if it is necessary to leave your home.

* Teach your children what to do in the event of an emergency.

* Make a plan for what to do with your pets in the event you must evacuate your home.

* Maintain a supply of water and non-perishable food, juice, etc.

* Have a portable radio, flashlight, cell phone and fresh batteries.
*Have an out-of-state friend/relative as a “family contact”.

WHEN A HURRICANE WATCH IS ISSUED (Threat within 24-36 hours)

*Fill all vehicles with gasoline.
*Check to determine that you have an adequate supply of medicine/prescription drugs.
*Get cash, as Banks/ATMs may not be available for extended periods.
*Turn refrigerators/freezers to coldest setting.
*Bring outside furniture, toys etc. into the house or garage.
*Cut tree branches that could damage windows or walls.
*Assemble a first aid kit
*Assemble important documents (medical records, insurance policies, checkbook, etc.) in a waterproof container or watertight bag.
*Review evacuation route and destination.

HURRICANE DISASTER SUPPLY KIT

*Canned goods and nonperishable foods that do not need cooking: · canned meats and fish · canned fruits and vegetables · canned soups and puddings · canned fruit juices · dried fruit and nuts · bread, cookies and crackers · peanut butter and jelly · coffee and tea · bottled water
*Manual can opener
*Bottled water (1 gallon per person/per day)
*Prescription medication (2 weeks supply)
*Pet food/supplies
*Water purification tablets (halazone)
*Disposable plates, cups and utensils
*Infant care items: · disposable diapers · baby wipes · baby food · formula
*First aid supplies
*Masking and duct tape
*Flashlight or lantern, with extra batteries
*Battery operated radio, with extra batteries
*Watch or battery operated clock
*Ice chest
*Matches
*Canned heat (sterno)
*Portable outdoor camping stove or grill with fuel supply
*Plastic trash bags
*Plastic sheeting or drop cloth
*Chlorinated bleach
*Personal hygiene items
*Other useful items · work gloves · sun lotion · insect repellent · hammer · screwdriver · pliers · wrenches · handsaw · razor knife · ax or chainsaw · rope caulking · nails and screws · rope and wire · broom, mop and bucket · all-purpose cleaner · ladder · sandbags · portable generators · tree pruner · shovel, rake and wheelbarrow · sheets of plywood

FAMILY COMMUNICATION PLAN

Develop a ‘Family Emergency Communication Plan’ in case family member are separated from one another during an emergency (a real possibility during the day when adults are at work or traveling and children are at school, camp or a friend’s home). You can then develop a plan for safely getting back together. This will help assure everyone that all family members are safe.

*Ask an out-of-state relative or friend to serve as a ‘family contact’. After a disaster, it is often easier to call long distance than locally.
*Make sure everyone knows the name, address and telephone number of the contact person

Free Consumer’s Guide to Home Remodeling

Wish there was a television show that would not only give you great design ideas for your new home renovation project but also place you on the right path to choosing a qualified, trustworthy licensed and insured remodeling contractor who will ensure your dreams become reality, on-time and in budget?

Well, we’ve got something even better! Jonathan McGrath Construction is proud to present, the Consumer’s Guide to Home Remodeling – a comprehensive guide to qualifying and selecting the ideal contractor for your next big project.

Whether you decide to update your kitchen, bathroom, dream of a whole-house renovation or consider an addition, ensuring that the work is done efficiently and professionally should be your number one priority.

Thankfully, the Consumer’s Guide to Home Remodeling has everything you’ll need to make the smart decision when choosing a qualified experienced remodeling contractor, including a helpful Contractor Standards Checklist, which you can use to qualify prospective contractors.

Best of all, the guide is completely FREE, compliments of Jonathan McGrath Construction. Simply click here to request your complimentary copy today.

Jonathan McGrath Construction Wins Grand Award

After

Before

We are excited to announce our whole house renovation for this year’s Parade of Homes was chosen as a 1st place winner. Even more exciting is the kitchen (see before and after above) won the GRAND AWARD in the Design Specialty Category by our fantastic trade partner, Central Kitchen and Bath.

A special thank you to our homeowners for allowing us the honor of entering their beautiful home. This was a 1950′s home totally transformed to everything the homeowner wanted allowing them to stay in their older established neighborhood. Below are before and after pictures of the family room turned into an Irish Pub/game room.

After

Before

Jonathan McGrath Construction’s 2011 Parade of Homes Entry

Before

Presenting Jonathan McGrath Construction’s 2011 Parade of Homes entry. This is the BEFORE picture of a 1959 eclectic style ranch transformed and given new life as a wonderful new contemporary home. With great use of the floor space and fresh curb appeal, no details were spared and all the modern conveniences & energy efficient green elements were incorporated.

• Dazzling pastry chef dream kitchen and butler’s pantry
• Sports-centric Irish Pub “Man Room”
• Deluxe master suite with spacious walk-in closet and contemporary bathroom
• Exterior redesigned with an expansive front porch featuring a cedar ceiling

Come out to see this beautiful transformation!

Saturday & Sunday, April 9 & 10 – 12pm to 5pm

No AFTER pictures, must see it in person to really appreciate!

2410 Lake Shore Drive
Orlando, FL 32803

Directions: I-4 to Exit 85 – Princeton St. – east to 17-92 turn –
left onto 17-92 – first right onto Lake Shore Drive – home is on left

What Home Renovations Are You Considering This Spring?

Maybe it’s Spring or a full moon but everyone is talking about their ideas for renovations. Is your kitchen looking old and worn out, the bathroom just too small, time for the summer kitchen you’ve been dreaming about?

Are you tired of waiting for the right time to put the house on the market and just want to add on the master bedroom suite or addition for your growing family? You’re not alone, this is the time of year many are ready to get started.

Need some motivation and design ideas, come out and visit our Parade of Homes remodel Saturday and Sunday April 9 and 10 from 12 noon to 5 PM. We will also be at the Orlando Home and Garden Show at the Orange County Convention Center the following weekend Friday through Sunday April 15-17.

Stay tuned for more details to both events.

Happy Spring!

Production Supervisor Celebrates 10 Year Anniversary

Ten years ago on January 5, 2001, a father of five who just moved from Massachusetts began a new job as carpenter at Jonathan McGrath Construction. Ten years, later he is now a Production Supervisor and an incredible asset to the company.

A super strong work ethic, attention to detail and the innate ability to treat every customer as if they were our only one, JMC is very fortunate to have him on our team.

Tom is a man of many talents. He also is known as Tom Wry the DJ Guy hosting karaoke parties. He has a great voice and everyone loves to hear him sing. He also has a charitable heart and one of his favorite charities is the VFW where he is often found helping out.

Tom is married to the lovely Ruth Ann and resides in Deltona. Congratulations Tom and thank you for ten years of dedication and hard work. It is rare to find someone of your caliber and we look forward to working with you for many more years!

HBA of Metro Orlando President, Marion McGrath, Thanks Veterans

November, for most of us, is a time of excitement and preparation. The brisk, fall air brings with it the drama of political elections, and the knowledge that the holidays are quickly approaching. In all of our hustle and bustle, we often forget to acknowledge Veteran’s Day (November 11th). Marion McGrath, Partner at Jonathan McGrath Construction, LLC. and the 2011 President of the Home Builders Association of Metro Orlando (HBA of Metro Orlando) has no intention of letting those around her forget, and she took a unique opportunity to celebrate and thank those who have served our country, including her own son.

On November 4th, Marion was installed as the President of the HBA of Metro Orlando. The annual ceremony to install the new executives of the Association, as well as the Board of Directors is typically an evening filled with speeches, oaths and the usual “pomp and circumstance” that goes along with these types of events. Marion knew that this is not what she wanted for her long awaited installation. She thoughtfully and deliberately worked with the staff at the HBA to create an evening that was about much more than recognizing the new officers.

Because of her own experience as a “Marine Mom”, Marion has been passionate about acknowledging and celebrating the Veterans that have served our country for a long time. When Lee Holt, a long time colleague in the construction industry, fellow Board member at the HBA, and a veteran himself, forwarded Marion an email including a “viral video” of a former Marine’s rousing rendition of the SECOND verse of the Star Spangled Banner, he asked if she would consider playing it at the installation ceremony. Marion knew instantly what she would do.  From that moment on, she set about planning an evening that celebrated our country’s many dedicated veterans, as well as the association’s new leadership.

“Coming off of the tumultuous nationwide elections, and facing yet another difficult year in the home building industry, I wanted to remind everyone one who came that night of what we truly have to be grateful for” McGrath said. To Marion, patriotism isn’t a political or flippant word; it’s an emotion that she feels every day. “Sometimes, even the most successful and connected among us need reminders of what’s important in life. I know, because I was one of those people”.

McGrath shared in her speech the night of her installation, what she meant by being “one of those people”.  Her son, Greg, joined the United States Marines Corp on May 17th, 2003, exactly one day after his high school graduation. “I had to learn to live with the fact that my son was a Marine, and everything that meant to me as a mother. I was all at once proud, hopeful, terrified and empty. I wouldn’t be whole again until he was home safely.” Going through the process of acceptance in regards to her son’s service, led Marion to think of not only of the many soldiers that have served before him, that may have lost their lives, limbs, or health, but also of their families. The mothers, fathers, wives, husbands, children… all waiting, just like she was, for some word of their loved ones’ safety. And the terrifying thought that some of those families would not get that word, but instead would be facing a funeral, or a long road to recovery.

After four years of dedicated service, every day of which Marion felt like she was serving right next to him, Greg returned home, healthy and safe. She and her family were so happy and grateful to have him home, and spent as much time with him as possible. They had to admit, that yes, his service to our country had changed him. The Marines sent home a strong and extremely impressive young man.  At lunch one day with Greg, and her husband Jack McGrath, they were all chatting about the trials and tribulations of what was going on in their lives’ and business. After patiently listening, Greg looked at the two of them and said “Mom and Jack, I’m listening to you talk about your problems. I don’t mean any disrespect, but…. You really don’t have problems.”

As Marion shared in her speech at the installation ceremony that night, the stark realization of what he had seen during his years of service brought everything in to perspective for her. “…what he had witnessed and dealt with…. from that moment on, I looked at life so differently.” McGrath told the crowd that her son had taught her the most valuable lesson of her life.

Our daily lives as Americans are mostly blessed. Yes, we all have problems, yes we all have complaints… some worse than others. But, for the most part Americans have so much to be grateful in their daily lives. “We owe a huge part of that to our veterans. As a country, we tend to forget the sacrifices that got us to where we are now.”

Marion McGrath’s installation as President of the Home Builders Association, was an incredible feat for her; she is only the second woman, and second Remodeler ever to hold the position. She spent the evening though, wanting not to take the credit the event was designed to give her, but instead hoping that everyone present felt the same about US Veterans as she did.

She did play that surprising rendition of the second verse of the Star Spangled Banner, as Mr. Holt had requested. She did ensure every veteran present (including her son) got the recognition they deserved. But more importantly, she asked every one present to put themselves in the shoes of those who are serving, have served or wish to serve our country. As the silence descended on the room, she then asked the crowd to relate that feeling to what everyone was experiencing as individuals, as company owners, or as employees, in this difficult economy.

Was it similar? Maybe. Was it with the same gravity or consequence? Of course not.

This Veteran’s Day, Marion McGrath will be celebrating the many incredible individuals that have chosen to serve our country, and the families that they leave behind to do so. Despite any political persuasion one may have, taking a moment to thank our military personnel is a simple, yet rewarding gesture we should each act upon as American citizens. It will likely change our perspectives as parents, siblings, friends or colleagues, as it did for Marion McGrath.

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