In May 2020, amidst the uncertainty of the pandemic, Kurt and Jo Kincanon decided to make a significant yet short move—just 1.4 miles—to Raineybrook and Admirals Pointe Drive. “Though Kurt and I have lived in Lafayette since 1995, we felt it was time to downsize to a single-level house,” Jo explains. This decision not only brought them closer to the design and functionality they desired but also placed them just a few houses away from Jo’s sister. Jo’s commute to McCutcheon High School, where she works, is now a mile longer, but the convenience is undeniable. Kurt’s drive to Evangelical Covenant Church has similarly increased, though only to a mere 3 miles. 

 

When the Kincanons purchased their new home, they recognized that the house had great bones but would need some updates to fit their lifestyle. “The way people live in their homes has changed drastically in the past 30 years,” Jo says. With the expertise of Susan Benedict from Design Alternatives, the Kincanons embarked on their first major project in 2022—remodeling the master bathroom. 

 

The outdated space, complete with carpet, a massive garden tub, and a tiny shower, was transformed into a modern retreat. “Eliminating the carpet and making the shower more spacious were top priorities,” Jo says. The results were stunning, setting the stage for the Kincanons’ next and much larger project: the kitchen remodel. 

 

The kitchen had always been Jo’s least favorite room in the house. “We frequently have people over, and the space just wasn’t conducive to entertaining,” she explains. The formal, carpeted dining room felt disconnected from the small eat-in kitchen, which featured a cramped layout and outdated pink Pickled Oak cabinets. “I called it a ‘One Way’ kitchen because we were constantly walking in a circle around the island,” Jo laughs. 

 

Once again, Jo reached out to Susan from Design Alternatives, who helped them to improve the kitchen’s functionality and update its aesthetic. They found the perfect contracting team, Tri County Home Pros, who worked seamlessly with Susan. “Their estimate was spot on, and their work was efficient and phenomenal,” Jo says. The result is a kitchen that not only looks amazing but functions beautifully, making it Jo’s new favorite space in the house! “I don’t feel stuck in the kitchen anymore, and while I wouldn’t say I love to cook, I certainly don’t mind it as much now!” 

 

One specific request Jo had for the remodel was a doggy door for their Australian Shepherd, Luna. “Many of you have seen, heard, or been startled by Luna,” Jo jokes. “She loves our nearly one-acre yard and enjoys playing with her herding ball.” Luna’s new doggy door allows her to roam freely, using up her energy doing what her breed does best. 

 

In today’s housing market, many homeowners are choosing to invest in their current homes rather than move. But updating key spaces like kitchens and bathrooms can make a huge difference. “Remodeling is a good way to be happier with your home while you live in it and increase its value,” Jo says. 

 

Despite the inconveniences that come with remodeling, Jo reminds herself that the process is temporary, and the results are well worth it. She owes many thanks to Design Alternatives and Tri County Home Pros for helping make the transition easier, even setting up a makeshift kitchen during the renovation. 

 

Curious to see the transformation firsthand? The Kincanons are hosting an open house on Saturday, October 12th, from 10am to noon. This is a great opportunity to meet the design and contracting teams, ask questions, and get inspired by the beautiful results of their hard work!