What Should Homeowners Ask Before Signing A Deck Installation Contract?
Key Takeaways Homeowners must do their homework, and ask their contractors the right questions to confirm that they’re not working with someone who’s inexperienced, unlicensed…
The kitchen is more than a place to prepare meals. It is where families gather, conversations happen, holidays are celebrated, and everyday life unfolds. A thoughtfully designed kitchen should be beautiful, functional, and tailored to the way you live. If your current kitchen feels outdated, lacks storage, has poor lighting, or no longer supports your lifestyle, a professional remodel can completely transform your home.
Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights, Inc. proudly provides expert kitchen remodeling in Benicia, CA. Since 1983, we have helped homeowners throughout the Bay Area improve their homes through quality craftsmanship, thoughtful design, and dependable construction services. With more than 40 years of experience, our team understands how to create kitchens that combine style, functionality, durability, and long-term value.
Whether you’re planning a complete kitchen renovation, custom cabinetry installation, an open-concept redesign, upgraded countertops, improved lighting, or enhanced storage solutions, we provide personalized remodeling services tailored to your goals.
As a licensed General Contractor and Electrical Contractor, we offer homeowners a unique advantage. Our team can coordinate multiple aspects of your kitchen renovation under one roof, helping simplify the remodeling process while ensuring every detail is completed to the highest standards.
Our kitchen remodeling services include:
Every kitchen remodel begins with understanding your needs. We take the time to learn how your family uses the space, identify opportunities for improvement, and develop a customized remodeling plan designed around your lifestyle, preferences, and budget.
Whether you own a historic home near Downtown Benicia, a family residence in Southampton, or a waterfront property overlooking the Carquinez Strait, our team is committed to delivering a kitchen that enhances the beauty and functionality of your home.
Learn more about our kitchen remodeling services:
Kitchen Remodeling Services
Partner with Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights to create a beautiful, functional space designed around the way you live.
Many homeowners know they want a better kitchen but aren’t sure what changes will have the greatest impact. Some struggle with limited storage and counter space. Others want to remove walls and create a more open floor plan. Many simply want a kitchen that feels more inviting and functions more efficiently for everyday living.
If your kitchen no longer meets your family’s needs, remodeling can provide significant benefits.
You may be a good candidate for kitchen remodeling if:
Kitchen remodeling is one of the most impactful home improvement investments you can make. A well-designed kitchen can improve daily functionality, increase comfort, enhance aesthetics, and contribute to long-term property value.
At Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights, we begin every project by understanding your goals. We evaluate your current kitchen, discuss your vision, and develop a remodeling plan that balances beauty, practicality, and budget considerations.
Our team guides homeowners through every phase of the remodeling process, helping ensure a smooth experience from initial consultation through final construction.
Whether your project involves a simple update or a complete transformation, our goal is to create a kitchen that serves your family for years to come.
Partner with Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights to create a beautiful, functional space designed around the way you live.
Contact Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights today and let our 40 years of Bay Area expertise turn your dream project into reality.
Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights is certified and accredited by the best manufacturers in the industry. From Grip-Tite Foundation Systems, to James Hardie Siding, to VELUX Skylights, you can be sure to get the highest quality products for whatever your project.
Serving the San Francisco Bay Area for over 40 years with quality general contracting, home remodeling, and skylight installation means you'll get the benefits of our expertise for every project.
Maintaining a high level of customer satisfaction, we are proud to have provided our customers throughout the San Francisco Bay Area with quality construction and home improvement services for 40 years. With half of our new clients coming to us from referrals, it’s no secret that our customers/friends are truly pleased with the work we do.
Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights, Inc. is a longstanding partnership of 40 years between Archie Mares, Dennis Dow and hundreds of great customers throughout the San Francisco Bay Area. We are a general contractor, building custom homes, additions, home remodeling, skylights, retaining wall construction and commercial remodeling.
Maintaining a high level of customer satisfaction, we are proud to have provided our customers throughout the San Francisco Bay Area with quality construction and home improvement services for 40 years. With half of our new clients coming to us from referrals, it’s no secret that our customers/friends are truly pleased with the work we do.
For more than four decades, Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights has built a reputation for quality construction, reliable service, and exceptional craftsmanship throughout the Bay Area.
Our company was founded through the partnership of Archie Mares and Dennis Dow, two experienced construction professionals who have dedicated their careers to helping homeowners improve and transform their properties.
Archie Mares brings extensive expertise in electrical systems, lighting design, and construction planning. His background allows homeowners to benefit from advanced electrical knowledge, efficient lighting solutions, and modern kitchen functionality.
Dennis Dow contributes decades of experience as a carpenter, foreman, superintendent, and builder. His hands-on construction expertise helps ensure projects are completed efficiently, professionally, and to the highest quality standards.
Since 1983, we have completed remodeling and construction projects throughout the region.
Our dual licensing helps streamline project coordination and ensures critical aspects of your remodel are completed by experienced professionals.
We focus on creating kitchens that are both beautiful and highly functional.
Every detail matters. We are committed to delivering work that stands the test of time.
No two kitchens are alike. We customize every remodel to fit the homeowner’s goals and lifestyle.
Our expertise in skylight installation allows us to introduce natural light that enhances the appearance and functionality of kitchen spaces.
Many of our new clients come from referrals, reflecting decades of customer satisfaction throughout the Bay Area.
Partner with Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights to create a beautiful, functional space designed around the way you live.
Every homeowner has unique goals for their kitchen. That’s why we offer customized remodeling solutions designed to maximize functionality, comfort, and visual appeal.
An efficient layout can dramatically improve the way your kitchen functions. We evaluate traffic flow, work zones, appliance placement, and storage opportunities to create practical layouts tailored to your lifestyle.
Many Benicia homeowners want a more connected living environment. Open-concept designs can improve sightlines, increase natural light, and create better gathering spaces for family and guests.
Custom cabinetry allows homeowners to maximize storage while creating a cohesive design. We help homeowners select cabinetry solutions that improve organization and enhance aesthetics.
A well-designed island can provide additional workspace, seating, storage, and functionality. Kitchen islands often become the centerpiece of the room.
New countertops can significantly improve both appearance and usability. We help homeowners select durable materials that complement their overall design goals.
Modern flooring enhances the appearance of the entire kitchen while improving durability and maintenance.
Lighting plays a critical role in kitchen functionality. We create layered lighting plans that combine task lighting, ambient lighting, and decorative fixtures.
Updated plumbing fixtures contribute to both convenience and style.
Modern appliances should fit seamlessly within the kitchen design while supporting daily functionality.
The finishing touches often have the greatest visual impact. We help homeowners select details that bring the entire design together.
Natural light can completely transform a kitchen. As VELUX 5-Star Skylight Specialists, we can incorporate skylights that brighten your space and improve its overall atmosphere.
Learn more:
Explore Our Kitchen Remodeling Services
We proudly provide kitchen remodeling services throughout Benicia and surrounding communities.
Historic homes in Downtown Benicia often benefit from thoughtful renovations that preserve architectural character while introducing modern functionality.
One of Benicia’s most established residential neighborhoods, Southampton is home to many families seeking updated kitchens that better support everyday living.
Homeowners in Waters End frequently invest in kitchen remodeling projects that improve entertaining spaces and enhance overall home value.
Many East Benicia homeowners pursue remodeling projects focused on improved storage, modern finishes, and upgraded layouts.
Older homes throughout West Benicia often benefit from kitchen updates that improve efficiency and aesthetics.
Properties near the waterfront often incorporate kitchen designs that maximize natural light and complement surrounding views.
Historic homes near First Street often require remodeling solutions that balance preservation and modernization.
Homeowners near this area frequently seek kitchens that support active lifestyles and family gatherings.
Many remodeling projects begin because homeowners are frustrated with recurring issues that affect daily life.
Common kitchen problems we address include:
Insufficient cabinet and pantry space can create clutter and reduce efficiency.
Awkward layouts often make cooking and entertaining more difficult than necessary.
Older cabinetry can negatively impact both appearance and functionality.
Limited prep areas can make meal preparation frustrating.
Dark kitchens often feel smaller and less inviting.
Worn countertops, flooring, and fixtures can make the entire kitchen feel outdated.
Many homeowners prefer more open spaces that encourage connection and interaction.
Modern kitchen designs often incorporate islands and gathering spaces that better support family life.
Partner with Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights to create a beautiful, functional space designed around the way you live.
Quality and service come first. We approach every job, big or small, with the same care and attention to detail we’d give our own homes. Our team combines time-tested building practices with modern innovation to deliver results that stand the test of time.
Ready to start your next project? Whether you’re planning a home remodel, skylight installation, or foundation repair, our team is here to help.
Reach out to us for a free consultation. We’ll listen, offer expert guidance, and provide a detailed estimate tailored to your goals.
To enhance the lives of Bay Area homeowners through expert construction, thoughtful design, and dependable service. For over 40 years, our mission has remained simple: build with integrity, serve with pride, and create spaces our clients love to live in.
We believe in integrity, craftsmanship, and lasting relationships. Every project is built on honesty, transparency, and respect - for our clients, our partners, and the homes we’re entrusted to improve.
Since 1983, Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights has helped homeowners throughout the Bay Area improve their properties through quality construction and remodeling services.
Our experience includes:
Our understanding of Bay Area homes, construction methods, and remodeling best practices allows us to provide valuable guidance and dependable results.
When you work with our team, you’re partnering with experienced professionals who understand how to balance design, functionality, craftsmanship, and long-term value.
If you’re considering remodeling your kitchen, start by identifying the areas that need improvement.
Ask yourself:
Once you’ve identified your priorities, consult with an experienced remodeling contractor to discuss possibilities and develop a realistic plan.
Professional guidance can help you avoid costly mistakes while ensuring your investment delivers lasting value.
Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights installed a large Velux skylight for me in August 2017. The entire experience was wonderful and the skylight is beautiful, both functionally and aesthetically. Janet made sure the work was scheduled to be completed before a trip I had planned. Jimmy measured carefully when he quoted the work and even accommodated a last minute change on the location when he arrived to do the work. They protected my new floors and were careful to keep dust to a minimum. Archie came by to ensure that all was going smoothly. Freddy helped matched the stain on my nearly 70 year old tongue and grove ceiling that really took some effort and he even matched some a few small spots that a previous contractor had sanded and removed the original stain. EVERYONE was cheerful and knowledgeable. Now, my little mid century house has emerged into the light!
Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights replaced two aging skylights in our bedroom and installed automatic blinds on four skylights. This was not an easy job, since our bedroom has very very high cathedral ceilings. In fact, one other skylight installer refused to do the job altogether, and a second made a bid that was almost twice as expensive as Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights. Janet Mares, who was our main contact for the job, was a pleasure to work with. Her son, Jimmy, who led the installation, was fearless climbing the ceiling, and he eally knew his stuff. We’re thrilled with our new and improved skylights, and we appreciate Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights’ solid, reasonably priced, work. Thanks guys!
I’ve had Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights install 3 sun tunnels in my home and most recently, 2 skylights in my garage/art studio. I couldn’t be more satisfied with the quality of their work and professionalism! All my communications with their office and installers have been extremely pleasant. I would use them again (and again) and highly recommend them to anyone looking to install Velux skylights/sun tunnels in their home!
Being a new homeowner, i really did my research before having someone come out and give me a quote on a skylight. You never know what to believe when you read yelp reviews. So, i went ahead and had Jimmy from mares and dow come out and give me an estimate. He was right on time, came out and measured and was very professional while he was here. Janet called me a few days later and sent me over an estimate. I went them them and couldn’t be happier. It arrived in the time frame she had told me, and they were out that week. The workers came out on time, and were very friendly and professional. Dennis ( one of the owners) came out as well and checked on the job. The went above and beyond with their work. The skylight looks beautiful! Night and day from the old one. If you are wanting a skylight, i strongly reccomend going with mare and dow
We had Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights install a Velux skylight in our new master bathroom. The space was small and dark, so Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights suggested a big skylight to add in lots of natural light. They built in a double crown molding to beautifully frame the skylight, and now the space is open and airy with wonderful natural light. We can open the skylight during warm months to let in fresh air. It was a superb addition to our bathroom renovation and a great suggestion from Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights. They did a fantastic job and were great to work with! Thanks guys!
Key Takeaways Homeowners must do their homework, and ask their contractors the right questions to confirm that they’re not working with someone who’s inexperienced, unlicensed…
Key Takeaways A new deck installation before you sell your home can really add to the value and appeal of your home, particularly when your…
Key Takeaways Check any deck installer’s credentials, licensing and insurance to protect yourself from potential risk and to comply with local regulations. Evaluate the contractor’s…
In addition to Benicia, we proudly serve homeowners throughout:
A professionally remodeled kitchen can improve how your home looks, feels, and functions every day. Whether you’re planning a complete renovation or targeted upgrades, Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights has the experience, knowledge, and craftsmanship to help bring your vision to life.
With over 40 years of Bay Area remodeling experience, we are committed to creating kitchens that enhance comfort, functionality, and long-term value.
Partner with Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights to create a beautiful, functional space designed around the way you live.
Schedule Your Kitchen Remodeling Consultation
Learn more about our services:
Kitchen Remodeling Services
Kitchen remodeling is a major investment, and homeowners in Berkeley often have important questions before starting a project. Below are clear, detailed answers to the most common concerns we hear during consultations. These are designed to help you better understand the process, timeline, and what to expect when working with a professional design-build contractor.
Kitchen remodeling costs vary significantly depending on the size of the kitchen, the scope of work, material selections, and whether structural, electrical, or plumbing modifications are required. A kitchen refresh that focuses on cosmetic improvements will typically cost less than a complete renovation involving layout changes, custom cabinetry, and premium finishes. During your consultation, our team evaluates your goals, discusses your priorities, and develops recommendations tailored to your budget. We believe in providing transparent information so homeowners can make informed decisions and understand the value of their investment before construction begins.
Every kitchen remodeling project is unique, so timelines can vary based on the complexity of the renovation. Factors such as permitting requirements, custom material lead times, structural modifications, and overall project scope all influence scheduling. Smaller projects may move relatively quickly, while complete kitchen transformations often require additional planning and construction time. At Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights, we work hard to establish realistic timelines, maintain clear communication, and keep projects moving efficiently while ensuring quality workmanship throughout every phase of construction.
Yes. Kitchen layout redesign is one of the most valuable services we provide. Many older kitchens were designed around lifestyles and appliances that no longer meet modern needs. We evaluate traffic flow, storage requirements, appliance placement, workspace efficiency, and overall functionality to create a layout that better supports the way you live today. Whether you're interested in creating an open-concept floor plan, adding a kitchen island, improving workflow, or maximizing storage opportunities, our team can develop a customized design that enhances both convenience and visual appeal.
Absolutely. Custom cabinetry is one of the most effective ways to improve both the appearance and functionality of a kitchen. Unlike standard cabinetry options, custom solutions can be tailored to your specific storage needs, design preferences, and available space. Whether you're looking for expanded pantry storage, built-in organization features, specialty drawers, or cabinetry designed to complement your home's architectural style, we can help create solutions that maximize efficiency while enhancing the overall aesthetic of the room.
Yes. Because Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights is licensed as both a General Contractor and Electrical Contractor, we can address electrical improvements as part of your remodeling project. Modern kitchens often require additional outlets, upgraded lighting, appliance circuits, and other electrical enhancements. Proper electrical planning is essential for safety, functionality, and convenience. Our expertise allows us to integrate lighting design, appliance requirements, and electrical infrastructure into the overall remodeling plan, helping create a kitchen that performs as beautifully as it looks.
In many cases, yes. Open-concept kitchen designs remain popular because they create better flow between living spaces, improve natural light distribution, and make homes feel larger and more connected. Before removing any wall, our team evaluates structural considerations to determine whether modifications can be made safely. If a wall is load-bearing, additional engineering and support systems may be required. We carefully assess each situation and develop practical solutions that achieve your goals while maintaining the structural integrity of the home.
Yes. Skylights can be an outstanding addition to a kitchen renovation, particularly in spaces that lack natural light. Increased daylight can make a kitchen feel brighter, larger, and more inviting while reducing reliance on artificial lighting during the day. As VELUX 5-Star Skylight Specialists, we have extensive experience incorporating skylights into remodeling projects throughout the Bay Area. Whether you're interested in introducing additional natural light or creating a more dramatic architectural feature, skylights can significantly enhance both the appearance and comfort of your kitchen.
A professionally designed and constructed kitchen remodel is often considered one of the most valuable home improvement investments available. While every project is different, updated kitchens are frequently attractive to prospective buyers because they improve functionality, aesthetics, and overall livability. Features such as modern layouts, quality cabinetry, upgraded lighting, improved storage, and durable materials can contribute to long-term value. Even if you're not planning to sell your home anytime soon, a remodeled kitchen can improve your everyday enjoyment of the property while supporting future resale potential.
Homeowners choose Mares & Dow Construction & Skylights because we combine experience, craftsmanship, licensing, and customer-focused service. Since 1983, we have helped Bay Area homeowners improve their properties through quality remodeling and construction solutions. Our team brings together more than 40 years of expertise, hands-on leadership, design-build knowledge, and dual General Contractor and Electrical Contractor licensing. We focus on creating kitchens that are beautiful, functional, and built to last. From the initial consultation through project completion, our goal is to provide a remodeling experience that is organized, transparent, and tailored to your needs.