This project was all about transformation — not of function, but of form. The existing backyard shed was no longer used for storage or utility, but its central placement on the property meant it played a key visual role. The homeowner wanted to restore its charm and turn it into a polished architectural accent that complements the landscape.

The shed’s lower siding was rotting, the small porch was unstable and unsafe, and the paint was faded. We reinforced the foundation, built a brand-new decorative front porch, and added custom trim details to bring it all together. The structure didn’t need to be rebuilt from scratch — just thoughtfully repaired and reimagined to give it new life.

To avoid costly full siding replacement, we wrapped the base with decorative plywood panels, creating a crisp, uniform line around the shed. This approach saved both time and money while dramatically improving the look.

The new porch was carefully constructed using pressure-treated wood and custom balusters to match the shed’s cottage-like appearance. We painted

the entire exterior in bright white and vibrant blue — a cheerful, standout combination that feels both playful and classic.

We also handled several unexpected upgrades at no additional charge — like re-shimming the foundation and replacing damaged window trim — ensuring that every detail was solid and aligned. Even the original post caps were reused to save on materials while keeping the aesthetic intact.

Now, this no-longer-functional shed is a true focal point of the yard — a charming structure that elevates the entire property. A project like this proves that even the smallest buildings deserve beautiful design.

Project Summary

Type: Decorative Shed Renovation

Location: Hackettstown, NJ

Duration: 3 days

Labor Cost: $2,800

This project involved a full replacement of an outdated staircase that no longer matched the style or safety standards of the home. The original stair structure was carpeted and built from basic construction lumber, with inconsistent dimensions and visible wear. Our goal was to create a visually striking, safe, and durable staircase that complemented the character of the home.

The entire staircase was carefully disassembled, including old treads, risers, handrails, and balusters. We reinforced the frame where needed and addressed hidden structural issues that had caused squeaks and instability. Each component was measured and rebuilt using solid oak, including custom stair treads and hand-finished risers.

A standout feature of this staircase is the curved bottom step, crafted from laminated plywood and carefully veneered to match the finish of the upper treads. It was securely anchored and seamlessly integrated with the flooring. This required a high level of precision and craftsmanship, as curved elements must balance beauty with structural integrity.

All wood surfaces were stained to match the client’s existing décor and finished with multiple coats of professional-grade polyurethane for long-lasting protection. We used wood filler and touch-up stain to conceal fasteners and small imperfections, ensuring a clean, polished look from every angle.

The final touch included adjusting and reinstalling balusters, tuning the railing, and sealing all joints with flexible wood-tone caulk to prevent cracking. The result is a refined staircase that not only looks elegant but feels solid underfoot.

Whether you’re replacing worn stairs or envisioning a bold new design, we deliver exceptional quality with attention to detail at every step.

Project Summary

Project Summary

Staircase size: 14 steps with custom curved starter step

Materials: Solid oak treads and risers, flexible plywood for curved step

Duration: 5 working days

Labor cost: $5,000 (materials not included)

We recently completed a staircase restoration project for our client Maria in East Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania. The goal was to refresh and modernize the look of the entire stairway without replacing the main structural components. The result: a striking transformation that brought warmth, character, and elegance back to the heart of the home.

The original railing system showed significant wear, especially on the handrail and balusters. Instead of full replacement, we carefully removed the existing paint and finish, sanded down every surface, and applied a rich wood stain that highlighted the natural grain of the handrail. The balusters and trim received a clean white finish, creating a beautiful contrast and classic aesthetic.

Precision craftsmanship was key in this project. Each baluster was carefully inspected, secured, or replaced where necessary to ensure long-term stability. We repaired joint transitions, eliminated creaks, and adjusted the geometry of some of the curved sections for a flawless visual flow. The finished staircase now looks brand new—without losing its original character.

One of the most challenging aspects was working around the existing flooring and curved bottom tread. With meticulous attention to detail, we preserved the shape and ensured that the restored railing seamlessly aligned with the steps and flooring below.

This project is a perfect example of how even an older staircase can be brought back to life with skilled restoration rather than full replacement. If you’re looking to refresh your stairway or give your railings a timeless look, reach out—we’d be happy to help bring your vision to life.

Project Summary

Duration: 3 working days (solo)

Labor cost: $1,800

This deck renovation project was a comprehensive, multi-stage restoration that required technical precision and careful execution at every step. The deck was elevated approximately 11 feet above ground, which significantly increased the complexity of surface preparation, board replacement, and painting work. My task was not just to improve the appearance of the structure, but to restore its integrity, extend its lifespan, and deliver a finish that would withstand the region’s harsh weather conditions.

The project began with a full pressure-washing of all surfaces to remove dirt, mildew, and old loose coating. Once the deck was cleaned and dried, I replaced several rotten boards that had deteriorated over time. Every board was inspected individually to ensure structural safety. Preparation also included scraping, sanding, and smoothing all peeling sections, ensuring the surface was ready to receive a new protective finish.

One of the most labor-intensive parts of the project was refinishing the underside of the deck. The lower section received a dedicated protective coating that shields the structure from moisture and decay — a step that many contractors skip due to difficulty. Working at an 11-foot height, I applied a full protective stain and sealant to the entire underside, strengthening the deck from below and ensuring long-term durability.

To protect the client’s property, all siding and house surfaces were carefully masked using professional-grade 3M plastic and tape. The setup fully covered the walls, downspouts, and surrounding areas, allowing safe and efficient work with a paint sprayer. Because of the detailed masking and controlled spraying, the finish came out uniform, smooth, and free of overspray.

The upper deck surface, railings, and balusters received two coats of high-quality exterior stain, applied by a combination of sprayer and hand finishing for maximum coverage and precision. The result is a clean, refreshed deck with consistent color, improved protection, and a renewed structural feel.

This project required a total of three full working days, reflecting the depth of preparation, the height of the structure, and the detailed craftsmanship applied at every stage. 

Project Summary

• Deck height: 11 feet

• Scope: pressure washing, replacement of rotten boards, scraping & sanding, full masking of house exterior, spray and hand-application staining, underside protection coating

• Duration: 4 working days

• Labor cost: $3,500 (materials not included)