March 3, 2014

Elegant Interior Designs in Ambler, Pa., was recently named the 2014 Regional Contractor of the Year (CotY) by the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) for its residential bathroom project in the $30,000-$60,000 range. The firm’s founder, Pamela Kofsky, partnered with Tom Hawks of Total Home Solution on the project, which focused on updating and enlarging a tiny bath through the use of double sinks, a vanity tower, a sitting area, pocket shelves, a toiletry shelf, a larger shower with multiple showerheads, a soaking tub and a separate toilet room.

“The inspiration for the design came from the way the client described how she wanted her space to look and feel, which was very relaxing, yet beautiful,” said Kofsky.

When asked what tips she would give to other designers who are planning to enter, she advised to take good before and after pictures and to determine the judging criteria ahead of time. 

“It’s important to have a very well-written story that clearly explains what you did and how you solved the client’s problems,” added Kofsky.

Photography by Brian Krebs/Fred Forbes Photogroupe

She also noted a few challenges she comes across during her renovations.

“When it’s not a complete redo, it can be difficult working with some of the things the clients already have and want utilized in the project,” she said. “Another challenge occurs when the client doesn’t realize how unrealistic HGTV can be with the price and timeline to complete a project.”

Kofsky’s winning project took about a month to complete, including the design and selection process. 

“The clients were on a tight timeline, as they were expecting their first child and moving into a new home with little time to spare,” she said. “The renovation started two days after they moved in – just before the arrival of the new baby.”

Kofsky and her firm are not new to winning awards, having received an Honorable Mention in the Singular Space category at the 2013 Annual Interior Design Awards, as well as a People’s Choice Award in the same competition.  

The CotY award program includes contractors from around the country, and the entries for this year’s competition totaled more than $72 million in remodeling projects.